USL PRO Game Report
Saturday, June 7, 2014
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Chad Bartlome scored a stoppage-time equalizer as Sacramento Republic FC earned a 1-1 draw with Arizona United SC in front of a sellout crowd of 20,231 at Hughes Stadium on Saturday night. London Woodberry had given Arizona the lead midway through the second half, but Bartolme's header sent the capacity crowd into celebration as Republic FC extended its undefeated streak to five games.
Republic FC came out strongly as it consistently attacked Arizona’s defense. Forwards Dakota Collins and Thomas Stewart led the charge, finding open space and utilizing their quickness to get behind the defense.
Collins had the best chance of the first half for the home team as he broke away from the defense and had a one-on-one opportunity with Arizona keeper Evan Newton, only to see the shot sail over the crossbar. Arizona’s best chances came in the 22nd and 28th minutes, only for Republic FC goalkeeper Dominik Jakubek to make two diving saves.
The half ended in a scoreless tie. Republic FC’s had the first scoring opportunity of the second half in the 50th minute when midfielder Rodrigo Lopez sent a curling shot toward the right corner of the net and Newton made a fantastic diving save.
Shortly after Arizona put themselves ahead with a free kick. In the 67th minute midfielder Joseph Dillon sent in a left-footed shot that bounced off the crossbar and landed at the feet of Woodberry who powered home a shot into the back of the net.
Republic FC seemed to come alive after the Arizona goal. After many missed chances, Republic FC equalized in stoppage time. Lopez sent in a cross from a corner kick that found the head of Bartlomé who sent the ball into the net. The goal was the first of the season for Bartlomé.
The match was the second straight sellout for Republic FC, which also sold out its first match of the season. With the sellout Republic FC raised its average attendance to 19,526.
“We appreciate the city coming out and supporting us,” said Republic FC Head Coach Preki following the match. “All we can do is go on the field and play as hard as we can.”
Republic FC moves to 6-3-2, while Arizona United SC moves to 3-6-1 as both sides took a point apiece. Republic FC will travel to Kezar Stadium in San Francisco on Wednesday to take on their MLS affiliate San Jose Earthquakes in the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PT.