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USL1 FC Tucson

FC Tucson Makes Preseason Debut against Oakland Roots

February 26, 2022 - United Soccer League One (USL1)
FC Tucson News Release


Game action between USL Championship's Oakland Roots and USL League One's FC Tucson during the Desert Showcase presented by Visit Tucson at Kino North in Tucson, Arizona, on Saturday, Feb. 26, 2022. (Joshua Pearson/FC Tucson)

FC Tucson made its long awaited return to the pitch Saturday at Kino North's Field 1, facing off against USL Championship side Oakland Roots SC in the Desert Showcase presented by Visit Tucson.

It was the first match for FC Tucson since its historic USL League One playoff run last fall.

The preseason match was player in three 30-minute periods.

Former FC Tucson midfielder Charlie Dennis scored the game's only goal in the match as his new side beat FC Tucson, 1-0.

Dennis, who had 10 goals through 2019 and '20 in Tucson, knocked in a left-footed shot from outside the box early in the first period against his former club.

Another chance for Oakland came in the second period when forward Johnny Rodriguez headed a cross towards the goal. It was an easy catch for FC Tucson goalkeeper Carlos Merancio.

Oakland had another chance to double its lead in the third period. A quick through ball led to a close range shot-on-goal. FC Tucson goalkeeper Sean Murray made a great stop with his left hand to keep the scoreline 1-0.

Oakland came into the match with experience from three closed-door matches in California and one against USL Championship side FC Tulsa in Tucson. The Roots came away with wins in all four matches.

The Desert Showcase presented by Visit Tucson continues on March 24 with a World Cup Qualifying watch party at the Tucson Convention Center, as the United States will face off against CONCACAF rivals Mexico in the match.

FC Tucson will travel to play its second preseason match against Phoenix Rising FC on Saturday, March 5.

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