Read up on the other three wide-playing attackers on Republic FC’s roster here
Republic FC’s attacking core was one of the league’s best in creating opportunities and putting pressure on their foes in 2022. Bolstered with a new addition, Sacramento’s already deep attacking unit could see every player make an impact in 2023 while they continue to do just that. Three players round out the wide-playing forwards for Mark Briggs’ roster, with eyes on a big season.
Russell Cicerone
Upon his acquisition Cicerone was welcomed to Sacramento with open arms, and as an exciting get for the Indomitable Club. His pedigree speaks for itself – he’s been one of the league’s best the past two seasons – and already has fans excited to watch him play in 2023. He fits right into the club’s system that generates chances in all forms and scores in a variety of ways, and possesses tremendous instincts that should pair well with the club’s creative midfield. He joins Republic FC coming off of two stellar campaigns with Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the Eastern Conference.
From 2021-2022 he scored 31 goals, tied for second in the league during that timeframe, and recorded 14 assists. However, what stood out most was his efficiency – among the league’s top scorers during that timeframe, he posted the best conversion rate at 26.7%. The closest runner up bagged 12 fewer goals and played in half as many matches.
Zeiko Lewis
Lewis appeared in 25 league contests for Sacramento in 2022, starting eight and substituting in 17. He was excellent when he featured, helping Sacramento in crucial matches down the stretch even if bouts with injury limited his minutes. He netted two scores on the year, one of which came against his former club on July 30 – a big league win to help Republic on its quest for the playoffs, and another in the U.S. Open Cup Second Round against Portland Timbers U23.
From the start, Lewis will battle for minutes in what’s likely to be a competitive season between the players up top. But a healthy campaign could easily return the form he showed in his ten-assist 2021 with Charleston, when he was voted his club’s most valuable player. At his best, he’s capable of being one of the league’s most dangerous in the offensive half.
Mario Penagos
2023 will mark Penagos’ fourth pro season since signing out of the club’s academy. He spent part of 2022 on loan to FC Cincinnati 2, where he gained crucial experience in a MLS training environment. The 20-year old academy product appeared 14 times for the Ohio side, logged 159 minutes and netted his second career goal on August 22 against Toronto FC II – then an equalizing score in the 79th minute.
He’ll compete for minutes in 2023, but the players that Sacramento possesses around him stand to make him better. The homegrown product still has plenty of potential to make an impact with his hometown side – don’t forget, he logged over 1,000 minutes and appeared in 20 contests for the club in 2021.
