The Riptide Report: Rhode Island FC vs Portland Hearts of Pine - 6/27/2025

RIFC chopped down Portland Hearts of Pine 4-1.  After all of the disappointment last weekend, a big feel-good win like this was needed.  The result was never in doubt as RIFC outplayed Portland all over the field.  As always, I'm going to give my quick thoughts on a massive win in the Cup.  It was a fun one

Double Pivot

No, I'm not talking about Timmy and Andrew's awesome new show.  I'm talking about changes Khano Smith made to start this one.  With Marc Ybarra coming back from injury (he made the bench and played the last 25 minutes tonight), and Amos Shapiro-Thompson and Zach Herivaux still out injured, RIFC didn't have anyone for the number 6 role.  This has been widely discussed by myself and Matt, and I think it's been a major factor in the lack of success so far this season.  The team needs someone to protect the back line.  Khano sought to remedy this tonight by playing Clay Holstad and Maxi Rodriguez in a double pivot.  I felt like they did a good job sharing their defensive responsibilities but the bigger benefit came in progressing the ball forward.  Maxi was pinging passes forward the entire first half and getting us into dangerous areas.  That didn't continue as much in the 2nd half, but it was still a great overall performance from Maxi and Clay.  With Ybarra seemingly back now 🤞, it'll be interesting to see how the midfield shakes out moving forward

Chico Hattrick

Albert Dikwa, we always knew you had it in you.  He consistently got into great positions and was a handful for Portland's defense all night long.  The first goal came with this beautiful chip over the keeper:

The 2nd was a classic poacher's finish early in the 2nd half to bring RIFC'S lead to 2-0

The third came from header after some great attacking movement from the team

What a night for RIFC and what a night for Chico personally.  If he and the rest of team can use this as a springboard for better performances in the league, it's going to be an incredible rest of the summer

Khano on the Roof

It was confusing to us in 205 when Khano Smith wasn't on the touchline to start the 2nd half.  Nothing was announced in the stadium, but he apparently got a yellow before and after halftime.  So imagine our amazement when we saw him standing on top of the press box.  Not inside the press box.  On top.  Outside.  I wish I had a picture but my anxiety about looking like a weirdo got the better of me.  He acknowledged us in the section after the team's 4th goal though and it capped off a fantastic night at Tidewater.  #KhanoIn

Up Next

RIFC have another home match next weekend against Birmingham Legion.  I will be back here with the Prematch Lookout later next week for a preview.  As for this game, Timmy will have his player ratings and the postmatch pod will be back Sunday night.  Until next time, UP THE TIDE!