Orange County suffered a stunning defeat against RGVFC last weekend, a match that ended their six match winning streak. Now the club will again try to keep pace for the final home playoff spot.
The club may consider themselves lucky after dropping points Saturday night, as results elsewhere meant that OCSC only dropped into fourth, one point behind Real Monarchs, who currently occupy fourth. The reverse fixture ended in a narrow 0-1 loss for Orange County back in April.
OKC Energy currently sit in 14th place after a 5-1 defeat from Los Dos last weekend. While closer to the playoff line than OC’s last two opponents, the Energy look unlikely to challenge for a play in, having only found the net three times in their last four matches and picking up just one point from a possible twelve.
Almost all of the Energy’s attacking prowess comes via two Jamaicans. Deshorn Brown and Owayne Gordon have scored 19 of the club’s goals, over 40% of the team’s 2019 tally. Most of their attacking success comes on the break, though SoCal native Rafael Espinoza is fully capable of punishing teams from set-pieces.
Returning home looks to be a blessing for Orange County. Despite early season struggles, they have averaged nearly two points per game at home this season. Additionally, they will not have to worry about one of the longer trips in the USL. As October begins with all but three teams still in contention, Saturday’s match is yet another must-win for the hosts.
Kevin Alston has made returned from his injury sustained in August. Michael Orozco is suspended following his dismissal in Texas. Michael Seaton, Vinicius, and Hugo Arellano still remain just one caution away from suspension for accumulation.
The match kicks off at 7pm at Championship Soccer Stadium at the Orange County Great Park. The game will also be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States.
Highlights:
Orange County SC have earned 75% of their wins at home this season.
OKC Energy FC average 46% of possession and 371 passes per game.