“As a group, I think we have to start believing in ourselves and what we can achieve a little more,” said Briggs. [Louisville is] A very good team and a well coached team. I am very happy to have scored five goals against a team of that level. The players tonight were exceptional. Everyone who stepped onto the field was exceptional. ”
At the center of it all was Cicerone, who quickly lived up to the expectations placed on him after his offseason arrival. The 28-year-old scored his two goals, both with sharp shots, demonstrating his ability as a centerpiece of Sacramento’s attack.
according to Goals added metric in American Soccer Analysisso far this season, no individual has made a greater positive impact than Cicerone, who have scored +2.02 in their first four games at their new club.
“With the group around me, I’m going to take a chance,” Cicerone said, sharing his admiration. “And when I find myself in a place like that, I have to cool down and do what I can. I know I have confidence in those spots.” And like I said, with the talent around me, I have a lot of opportunities this year.”
“That’s just Russell, isn’t it?” added Briggs. “He scored two goals tonight. That’s what we’re adding to our group.”
On paper, the early season fixtures will feature Republic FC’s San Diego Royal SC, Louisville, and next week’s opponent San Antonio FC in a three-game streak. Fivethirtyight.com – It’s a gauntlet of sorts.
With victories over the first two of these opponents, Sacramento has a chance to make a big step in the competition next Saturday night when it heads to San Antonio at Toyota Field. The SAFC will undoubtedly be the most difficult bridge to cross. His 15-game unbeaten streak from the defending titleholder last season is no coincidence. This match will be an indicator of just how far Republic FC have closed the gap between the clubs since last season.
