Sac Republic, Liverpool play to 2-2 draw in Reno

In the first-ever soccer match played at Greater Nevada Field, Liverpool FC U21s and Sacramento Republic FC played to a thrilling 2-2 draw Wednesday night in front of 6,287 in attendance.

LFC U21s midfielder Cameron Brannagan provided fireworks with a top shelf, go-ahead finish in the 77th minute, giving the U21s a short-lived 2-1 lead. Moments before stoppage time, Republic FC forward Harry Williams powered a left-footed shot past a diving Shamal George, leveling the score at two.

The first half featured a pair of fantastic goals from both sides. With 6,000-plus in attendance, both teams gave the pro-Liverpool crowd plenty of excitement from first whistle.

Just five minutes into their second friendly against one another in five days, LFC U21s staked themselves a 1-0 advantage. Forward Ryan Kent ran onto a ball sent over the top from Kevin Stewart, finishing in dynamic fashion with a left-footed volley over Republic FC goalkeeper Evan Newton.

In the 16th minute, Republic FC’s Daniel Trickett-Smith fired an ambitious shot from 25 yards, but George handled neatly with a flick over the crossbar.

Trickett-Smith gave Republic FC another scoring chance eight minutes later when he found an open Cameron Iwasa inside the box. Iwasa’s shot slid wide right, however, keeping Republic FC from glory.

Possession remained in LFC U21s’ favor until the 38th minute. Republic FC forward Adam Jahn was taken down from behind by LFC’s Lloyd Jones, resulting in a yellow card and free kick. From 30 yards out, Trickett-Smith calmly handled the free kick and slotted it over an outstretched George, pulling Republic FC even.

Brannagan’s effort in the 77th minute again placed LFC U21s with a lead, but Williams’ late dramatics kept the Reds from a friendly split.

Republic FC defeated LFC U21s this past Saturday at Bonney Field in Sacramento, 2-1, thanks to an 86th minute goal from defender James Kiffe.

At halftime, Reno 1868 FC revealed their crest. The crest, created by Brandiose, mixes Reno 1868 FC’s official colors – Nevada Cobalt Blue, light gold and silver grey – with the iconic Truckee River and Sierra Nevada mountains taking precedence over the traditional outlook of Reno as a gambling hub.

Greater Nevada Field will serve as the host for a regular-season United Soccer League match on June 11 between Sacramento and Real Monarchs SLC. Tickets are still available online for the match.

The uniform and coaching staff will be announced at a later date. For questions, or to discuss special interview or photograph needs, contact Cheyne Reiter at (775) 334-7089 or creiter@renoaces.com.