Republic FC looks to boost pressure on defenses
2017 Republic FC
Coach: Paul Buckle (3rd season)
2016 finish: 14-6-10; 52 pts.; 1st in Western Conference; lost to OC Blues on PKs in Western Conference first round
Key returners: Emra Klimenta, D; Danny Barrera, M; Evan Newton, GK; James Kiffe, D; Harry Williams, F.
Key losses: Cameron Iwasa, F; Mike da Fonte, D; Octavio Guzman, M.
Key additions: Sammy Ochoa, F; Tyler Blackwood, F; Adam Moffat, M; Trevin Caesar, F.
Outlook: Sacramento has gone after finishers and will look to put offensive pressure on opposing defenses with what head coach Paul Buckle calls “electric pace.” New forwards Tyler Blackwood and Sammy Ochoa are the most physically imposing front line in franchise history. Blackwood is 6-foot-2, quick and lanky, while Ochoa is 6-0 and 210 pounds, which is huge for a forward. Buckle said he’s excited for the 2017 home USL debut Saturday and thinks Repub;lic FC fans will be pleased with the new additions. Buckle said he’ll continue rotating goalies Dominik Jakubek and Evan Newton depending on each matchup. Both veteran keepers bring consistency and leadership.
This story was originally published March 29, 2017 at 5:59 PM with the headline "Republic FC looks to boost pressure on defenses."