Sacramento Republic FC Battle Seattle Sounders FC in Preseason Friendly

by Matt George – Sports 1140 KHTK

Cold night, early February, the lights at Papa Murphys Park are on for the first time in 2018, a perfect night for some soccer. The Sacramento Republic FC welcomed MLS powerhouse Seattle Sounders FC to their park for a 90-minute skirmish. For Seattle, it was another day in the office, as they prepare for yet another MLS Cup run. As for Sacramento, it was an opportunity to not only prepare for the upcoming USL season, but also a chance to prove, once again, that the club has their sights set on a future in the MLS.

The crowd was still filing into the stadium and finding their seats when the first goal was scored, a rocket off of the boot of Jordan Morris in the 2nd minute, one of his two goals of the evening. His second came late in the 2nd half, in the 79th minute. Seattle also found the back of the net in beautiful fashion during the 28th minute, a stellar cross and beautiful volley from Henry Wingo. Seattle enjoyed a 2-0 lead at halftime.

The Republic weren’t to be denied, and refused to be held scoreless, as they gave the Sounders a piece of their own medicine with a very early goal in the 2nd half. Papa Murphys Park erupted as Christian Eissele beat Seattle keeper Stefan Frei, making the score 2-1.

The 2nd half was very even between both teams, and despite trailing the entire match, the Republic did well to keep and manage possession. Their few mistakes, however, were met by lethal Sounders attacking, which lead to Morris’ 2nd goal towards the end of the match. After the full 90 minutes, Seattle took the victory by a final of 3-1.

Newsletter