Khano Smith's Rhode Island FC suffered a 2-0 defeat to Sacramento Republic FC on Saturday at Centreville Bank Stadium, as two quick second-half goals proved the difference in their second-ever encounter.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides struggling to break the deadlock. Sacramento Republic FC, currently sitting fourth in the Western Conference standings, had the clearest opportunity when Jack Gurr found himself one-on-one with Rhode Island FC goalkeeper Jackson Lee. However, Lee was quick off his line to produce a brilliant close-range save, keeping the score level. Gurr threatened again in the 32nd minute, volleying just wide of the far post.
Rhode Island FC's best chances of the half came late on. Clay Holstad's swift run down the right wing led to a cut-back for Frank Nodarse, whose one-time shot sailed over the bar. Moments later, RIFC won the ball back high up the pitch, setting Albert Dikwa "Chico" free. His shot towards the near post was well saved by Sacramento goalkeeper Danny Vitiello, ensuring a scoreless interval.
The visitors broke the deadlock ten minutes into the second half with a moment of magic. Rodrigo López curled a free-kick over the RIFC wall and past a diving Lee, giving Sacramento the lead. Things went from bad to worse for the Ocean State club in the 63rd minute when Cristian Parano lost his marker, latching onto Russell Cicerone's cross to slot home and complete a deadly counter-attack, making it 2-0.
Despite a spirited effort in the final stages, Rhode Island FC struggled to generate genuine goal-scoring opportunities, ultimately succumbing to a 2-0 loss at home. The result sees RIFC, who currently sit seventh in the Eastern Conference, look to regroup after a frustrating evening.
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