The calendar has turned to July, and that means it is Redlands FC's last chance to make a sprint to the finish line and try to clinch a playoff berth. The race starts Saturday at Dodge Stadium as they take on the SoCal Eagles.
The Opponent
With just 8 points in 10 games, the Eagles are already eliminated from playoff contention. Redlands FC faced them earlier this season on the road and won by a score of 3 to 2.
Despite their poor record though, the Eagles have a goal differential of just -3, and they have fallen short by just one goal in 5 of their 6 losses. So while Redlands certainly should be the favorite in this matchup, the Eagles have a way of keeping things close until the end.
Playoff Picture
The playoff picture in the Southwest Division remains extremely tight. The Fusion have managed to stay in first with 2.38 points per game and barring a complete collapse, they should make it into the playoffs one way or another. They do have to play second place Tucson and Redlands though to close out the season, which could give them a scare if they drop serious points.
Squeezed in between Redlands in 4th and Tucson in 2nd is Capo FC on 23 points. However, those 23 points come in 11 games played, only good for 2.09 points per game. With just one game remaining in their season, and it coming against Tucson, Capo would need a solid amount of help to make it to the postseason even if they win their final match.
So, despite being in 4th place right now, Redlands actually still have an opportunistic shot at making it into the top two and securing a playoff bid. Two of their 3 remaining games come against teams behind them in the table, with the other match being a tough road trip to Ventura.
If all goes to plan, it will likely come down to RFC and Tucson for the final spot. In that case, Redlands would need to make up the point they are currently down by and gain another over Tucson by the end of the season, due to Tucson being set with the goal differential tiebreaker. As mentioned though, if the Fusion collapse and drop points against both Tucson (who will have played at the time this article is published) and Redlands, things could break even more open.
Player to Watch: Enzo Mauriz
In honor of him being named to the USL2 Team of the Month for June, Enzo Mauriz is the player to watch Saturday night.
Mauriz has been one of Redlands most consistent players all season in the midfield, scoring 3 goals and dishing 2 assists last month. Fans will have to come watch and see what he has planned for July.
Final Notes:
Redlands match against the Eagles will be live streamed on Sports Engine starting at 7 PM. RFC will follow this game up with the aforementioned trip to Ventura County for a midweek clash against the Fusion, before returning home July 12th in what is sure to be a drama-filled season finale.
Purchase your tickets for Saturday’s game at https://www.redlandsfootballclub.com/tickets
