USL Oakland Roots

Match Preview: Roots vs Rising

Published on May 7, 2021 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Oakland Roots News Release


Oakland, CA - Saturday will be the first match of Oakland Roots SC's inaugural season in the Championship. Interim Coach Jordan Ferrell's team will begin the journey towards a playoff run away at the defending Western Conference Title winners Phoenix Rising. Oakland looks to get acclimated to their new league quickly and push on from there.

Quick Look:

Saturday May 8th

7:30 p.m. PST kickoff

Wild Horse Pass Stadium, Chandler, AZ

How to Watch: ESPN+ (digital)

Oakland Roots Latest

Roots finished up preseason last Saturday with a game against Santa Clara University. This was the first match following the coaching change and the match ended in a 1-1 draw. Jeremy Bokila picked up his second goal of preseason scoring the lone Roots goal in the game.

In the end of preseason Roots finished their preparation with one draw and four losses, but scored in every single game. The team played their best in a 3-2 loss to local MLS rivals San Jose Earthquakes taking a 2-0 lead deep into the game with goals from Oakland raised Yohannes Harish and forward Johnny Rodriguez.

The following week was a reality check for the team as they came out strong vs Sacramento Republic FC with chances falling Roots' way early, but the team was unable to convert on the opportunities. When Sacramento scored on their first chances, the tides began to turn strongly in their favor, resulting in a 5-1 final score in favor of the hosts. The lone goal in that match was scored by Johnny Rodriguez who finished off preseason with 2 goals, tied atop with Jeremy Bokila.

View the Full 2021 Squad

About the Phoenix Rising:

Phoenix Rising FC opened their brand new home at Wild Horse pass with a dominating 4-1 victory over Landon Donovan's San Diego Loyal side on ESPN 2.

Santi Moar carried his team for much of their opener scoring one goal and providing two assists. Rising started the match on the front foot and quickly showed the national television audience why they aren't just the defending Western Conference Title winners, but why they were the preseason favorites for many in the Pacific Division.

Phoenix Rising's Last Starting XI:

Andre Rawls, Ryan Flood, James Musa, Tobi Adewole, Darnell King, Aodhan Quinn, Kevon Lambert, Jon Bakero, Santi Moar, Rufat Dadashov, Solomon Asante.

Viewing Locations:

Luka's Taproom, 2221 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

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