USL PRO Game Report
Monday, July 7, 2014
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Octavio Guzman scored in stoppage time to extend Republic FC’s USL PRO home-unbeaten streak to six with a 2-1 victory against the Orange County Blues FC on Monday night at Bonney Field. Rodrigo Lopez had opened the scoring for Republic FC before Gabriel Gonzalez tied the game before the halftime break, but Guzman's second goal of the season solidified Republic FC's fourth-place position in the USL PRO standings.
The first half-hour of the match started slowly as both sides tried to establish a rhythm. Republic FC finally broke through in the 32nd minute when Justin Braun got in behind the defense and put a shot on goal that was blocked by Orange County goalkeeper Patrick McLain to the middle of the penalty area. Lopez was there to clean up and sent the rebound into the open net to give Republic FC a 1-0 lead.
The lead would not last long as Orange County would equalize just three minutes later when midfieder Mershad Momeni attacked down the right flank and sent a low cross to Gonzalez, who hit a first-time finish past the outstretched arm of Republic FC goalkeeper Jake Gleeson to tie the score.
The early stages of the second half saw some wide-open play as both teams created solid scoring chances. The match took an interesting turn in the 84th minute when Republic FC midfielder Tommy Thompson sent a low shot toward goal. McClain bobbled the save, before recapturing the ball on the ground as Sacramento's Thomas Stewart challenged late for the rebound. Republic FC's Lopez and Stewart and Orange County's McLain all received yellow cards following a scuffle caused by the challenge.
Republic FC finally broke through again three minutes into stoppage time. Lopez delivered an in-swinging free kick from the left, which was punched out by McLain. Guzman, on as a second-half substitute, controlled the rebound just outside the penalty area and sent a low right-footed shot through a defender and past McLain.
“It’s exciting," Guzman said. "I couldn’t believe it at first when it hit the back of the net. I couldn’t describe it, I was just happy. I’m glad I was able to help the team out.”
With the win Republic FC (9-5-2) moved two points back of the third-placed LA Galaxy II and three points back of the second-placed Richmond Kickers.
Republic FC will be back in action on Saturday when it visits the Richmond Kickers. The match is scheduled to kickoff at 4 p.m PT at City Stadium in Richmond. The match will be streamed live at SacRepublicFC.com/matchday. Updates will also be provided via Twitter @SacRepublicFC and using the hashtag #RICvSRFC.