RIFC drew 0-0 in the home opener against San Antonio FC.  While there were no goals, there was plenty to talk about around this game.  And no, none of this was written from the stands.  Or even on the way home.  I waited a bit to gather my thoughts on what was a momentous occasion.  So without further ado…..

Matchday Experience

This was a day that I, and many of us, will remember for the rest of our lives.  For me, it started at the Apex Lot, where we hung out and saw so many familiar faces.  Sarah passed out her now famous jello shots and there were good times all around.  The anticipation for the match was palpable.  After packing up, Sarah and I ended up taking the bus to the stadium and I have to commend RIPTA and the team for getting this right.  It was such an easy process and one that I think a lot of fans will take full advantage of.  The stadium itself was incredible and reminded me a bit of Weidner field out in Colorado (but better obviously).  The entire project is a massive achievement, and I applaud everyone who made this happen.

Fighting Through Adversity

As for the game on the field, the team really played hard.  It was really tough being without JJ Williams, Karifa Yao, Frank Nodarse, Marc Ybarra and others.  I think it was pretty clear we missed JJ the most.  I thought our defense was great, especially Grant Stoneman.  Clay Holstad had a great game in midfield as well.  But we couldn’t put the ball in the net and I feel that was down to having no true striker.  Albert Dikwa did come on at 60′ but he was coming back from injury and to me didn’t look 100%.  Still, I left the game extremely proud of the fight the team showed out there and believe they are moving in the right direction.

Handing out the Paddle

As much as I kept saying I didn’t want to hand out the first Man of the Match Paddle, even going so far as to offer it up for sale to Matt, I have to say it was an amazing experience.  Right as I got on the field, the heavens opened up and I got soaked.  Sarah hid under a banner, but I embraced the rain with how hot it was.  I was hoping the downpour would coincide with a breakthrough on the field but it didn’t happen.  After the final whistle, Flanny made sure we were ready to go.  And even though Frank wasn’t available for the game, I loved that Amos was the first Man of the Match.  Couldn’t have been a nicer guy and he deserved it with his play on the field.  He was everywhere out there. 

Up Next

I don’t need to remind anyone, but RIFC take on the New England Revolution on Wednesday night.  It’s a quick turnaround and we’ll all be pretty busy here at Tide Talk.  Be on the lookout for Timmy’s Player Ratings and the Postmatch Pod tonight for a closer look at yesterday’s game and to turn to the page heading into Wednesday.  I will be back with the Prematch Lookout on Tuesday previewing the matchup with the Revs.  Until then, UP THE TIDE!