Last week’s inaugural derby between the USL Championship’s two geographically closest rivals, Rhode Island FC and Hartford Athletic, lived up to the hype. Rhode Island FC fans, led by the supporters’ group Defiance 1636, made Hartford feel almost like a home match with their energetic presence, which boosted their team. Rhode Island took an early lead in the 4th minute with a perfectly timed cross from JJ Williams, skillfully finished by Mark Doyle. The first half was dynamic and saw numerous opportunities for both sides. Set pieces, which have often been problematic, featured prominently in this half with a total of seven. Hartford Athletic capitalized on one of these set pieces in the 24th minute, securing the match-tying goal.
Tomorrow, we’re back on our home turf, and tickets are selling fast! We’re expecting a full house as we take on Detroit City FC, a club renowned for its competitive edge and passionate Northern Guard Supporters. Detroit City FC currently sits sixth in the USL Championship’s Eastern Conference with 17 points, coming from 5 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses. Despite their recent two-game losing streak, they’re sure to be hungry for points! Although we’re currently 11th in the Eastern Conference, we’ve been consistently drawing matches, earning us the nickname “Draw Kings.” We lead the league with 8 draws, meaning 67% of our games have ended in a stalemate. If we could convert some of these draws into wins, we’d be in contention for the Players’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. We have great respect for “Le Rouge” and their community-focused ethos, but they’re in our sights for Saturday. We’re determined to secure our first-ever home win. Let’s make it happen!
Hey fans, what do you think of our team’s performance this season? Are you heading to Bernie Stadium for the match? Whether you’re local or cheering from afar, let’s show our support as we take on the squad from Motor City. Let’s give the fans what they came for—a win and three crucial points! #UpTheTide
Kickoff Weather: Approx: 72°. Sunny. 0% of precipitation. Winds W 10MPH. Sunset 8:20 PM.
How to Engage and Follow the Action:
- Attend Live: Tickets to Match (6/8 at 7:30 PM EST, Bernie Stadium, Bryant Uni, Smithfield, RI)
- Matchday Guide – Know before you go!
- Tune In: ESPN+
- Tune In: NESN+
- Tune In: YouTube (International Only / w VPN)
- Listen: AM 790 The Score
- Connect: Discord Match Chat
- USL Match Center
- FotMob Match Preview
- Match Hashtag: #RIvDET
Have you joined Defiance 1636, our Official Supporters Group, yet?
Can’t get enough RIFC? Check out our talented and dedicated podcasts:
Learn more about our squad and club:
- Wikipedia: Rhode Island FC
- FotMob: Rhode Island FC Overview
- Reddit: r/RhodeIslandFC
- SG 1: Defiance 1636
Learn more about our opponent:
SG 3: Keyworth Casuals
Wikipedia: Detroit City FC
FotMob: Detroit City FC Overview
Reddit: r/Detroitcityfc
SG 1: Northern Guard
SG 2: Rouge Vendetta
Tide Talk 
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