After results in four consecutive contests, Republic FC takes the pitch against Eastern Conference side Loudoun United this weekend. It’s the final stop of four straight on the road for the club before returning home on August 26.
Sacramento has a tough test ahead of them. This week’s opponent enters in good form following three strong performances. Last week, Loudoun bested Las Vegas 3-0 on the road with a stellar defensive showing and efficient work in the attacking third. In their last six games at home, the club has scored nine times.
“A long road trip to the East Coast again, against a Loudoun team that are doing very well and have picked up some good results,” said Head Coach Mark Briggs on Wednesday. “So it’s going to be a difficult game. We’ve just got to get the travel out the way, prepare and keep the right mentality going in.”
“Loudoun is playing really well right now, and they have a strong team that’s well coached,” said Russell Cicerone. “It’s going to be a good test for us on the road.”
Heading into the season’s final ten games, Mark Briggs’ Men are in a tight battle for position atop the Western Conference. Sacramento sits just a point back of San Antonio FC – who picked up a win mid-week – for the top spot in the Western Conference.
“Any points that you can get, they accumulate throughout the year and puts you in a good position going into the playoffs,” Cicerone continued. “And I think both home and away, we’ve been able to put out strong performances and get a decent amount of points.”
Sacramento also heads to Virginia with a new face on the squad. Attacker Cristian Parano, formerly of San Antonio FC, officially joined the club on Wednesday and will be available for selection to the club’s 18-man roster. With a track record of success in USL Championship, the club is excited about what he could add for the final push.
“He’s an exciting player people want to come and watch,” said Briggs of Parano. “We’ve been against him for a few years now, so to be able to have him on our team and playing for us, he’s going to add another dimension to our attack and hopefully bring assists, bring goals and bring an excitement for our fans.”
