It’s time for the first of four, yes FOUR, derbies between RIFC and Hartford Athletic in 2026.  This first one comes in the US Open Cup, where the teams were drawn against each other for the second round.  In round one, RIFC advanced past CD Faialense and Hartford took down FC Motown. 

Before getting into what to look out for from both teams on Wednesday night, I have to say something about the draw.  Based on last year’s draw, there was a growing conspiracy that these “random” draws were rigged.  And I was a believer.  But after this one, I’m certain it is truly random.  Out of the teams in our region, it would’ve made the most sense to have RIFC host Vermont Green and Hartford host Westchester SC.  But here we are with yet another derby.  Here’s what to keep an eye on Wednesday night.

Last Time Out

In the league, RIFC lost 2-1 at Miami FC on Saturday night.  There are zero positives the team can take from that game.  It was a frustratingly poor performance and result which has unfortunately become a trend with this team early in seasons.  As for the Open Cup, round one saw a straightforward 4-0 win over amateur side CD Faialense.  There’s not much to take away from that one either, as this will be a big step up in competition.

Players to Watch

• Frank Nodarse (DF)
  • I’ll always back my guy Frank as one of the most talented defenders in the league.  His issue has always been his inconsistency.  RIFC will need him to be at his best Wednesday night, particularly when tracking back after a loss of possession
• Clay Holstad (MF)
  • Clay has been a warrior this season, playing the full 90 in all three league games and 45 minutes in the last open cup game, all while dealing with a broken hand.  His trademark energy in the middle will be vital if RIFC want to get to the next round
• JJ Williams (FW)
  • After missing the game against Miami this past weekend due to red card suspension, JJ should be fully ready to go against Hartford.  His duel-winning and general combativeness will be key.  JJ likes to play right on the edge and he just needs to make sure to stay on the right side of it on Wednesday

Key to the Game

Defend the Transition

RIFC are all but guaranteed to have the majority of possession in this one.  But as we’ll see, that’s exactly what Hartford want.  They create the majority of their chances by bursting forward right after they win the ball back.  RIFC will need to make sure that their defenders get back in position immediately after turning the ball over to snuff out any Hartford attacks.  If RIFC can do that, Hartford will have a hard time scoring and advancing to the third round becomes very likely

Last Time Out

Hartford are coming off of a 2-2 draw in their home opener against Indy Eleven last weekend.  They needed a late own goal to secure the point.  As for the Open Cup, they took down FC Motown 2-0 last round. Much like with RIFC, there isn’t a whole lot to take away from either game as we head into Wednesday night.  The bigger story for Hartford is how their season has started overall.

Hartford haven’t lost yet this season in 5 games (4 league and 1 open cup).  It’s a stark contrast to RIFC, who haven’t won yet against professional competition.  Must be nice to get off to a strong start.  It’s something RIFC haven’t yet done in three years.

Players to Watch

• Antony Siaha (GK)
  • You can’t talk about this derby without mentioning its main villain.  A fantastic shot-stopper but even bigger jerk, Siaha quickly put himself at the center of controversy last season.  What’s interesting is, it’s possible he doesn’t start Wednesday.  Former NC State and Bryant goalkeeper Enzo Carvalho started in round one.  I wouldn’t be shocked if he gets the nod again but regardless of if Siaha plays or not, he’ll definitely have some eyes on him
• Barry Coffey (MF)
  • Coffey signed this offseason from Cobh Ramblers of Ireland’s second division, which is confusingly named the “League of Ireland First Division”.  The League of Ireland Premier Division is the actual top league.  Coffey proved himself in his native Ireland as a goal scoring midfielder and has gotten off to a decent start in Hartford with a goal and an assist so far.  It’s worth noting that he wasn’t in the squad against Indy, but assuming he’s available, he could cause issues
• Augustine Williams (FW)
  • The USL veteran currently leads his team in goals with 2.  He’s a player I was quietly hoping RIFC would sign to replace Albert Dikwa but he ended up in Hartford after spending 2025 in Pittsburgh. 

Key to the Game

Frustrate and Win in Transition

As I discussed with RIFC’s key to the game, Hartford want to create chances in transition.  They should have opportunities to do so with RIFC being a possession dominant team.  For Hartford to win, they’ll need to be disciplined defensively to force RIFC’S attacks to stall out.  They will then rely on their athleticism to burst forward and catch the defense out of position.  It’s a strategy that’s worked well so far this season

Analysis and Prediction

To me, it’s pretty clear how this game will play out.  I discussed it in the keys for both teams.  RIFC will have the lion’s share of possession and Hartford will be comfortable dropping off.  Unfortunately, this kind of game worries me.  Hartford are at their best against teams who play like RIFC.  Their toughest game this season was last weekend against Indy Eleven, where Indy sat back and allowed Hartford to have 64% possession.  As mentioned earlier, it took a late own goal for Hartford to get a point.  I’m not confident that RIFC are going to take an Indy Eleven approach as it just isn’t in their DNA.  Therefore, regrettably, this is what I’m thinking:

Final Thoughts

Despite my pessimism, I’m excited to be back at Tidewater.  Hopefully I’m proven completely wrong and RIFC take care of Hartford.  Regardless of the result, I’ll be back here after the game for the Riptide Report to give my immediate takeaways.  Until then, UP THE TIDE!