Reno 1868 FC have earned their place in the 2019 USL Championship Playoffs with a 3-1 win over New Mexico United on Friday night at Isotopes Park. 1868 FC now hold a three-match win streak after earning their second straight road win. Friday’s victory marked 50 USL Championship wins for Ian Russell as 1868 FC’s head coach.
Reno trailed by a goal after conceding in the seventh minute, but Forward Corey Hertzog tied the game at one apiece just before halftime, earning his 15th goal of the season. Defender Brent Richards tallied his first goal since 2017, earning 1868 FC a 2-1 lead in the 54th minute. A minute later, Hertzog added to Reno’s lead with his 16th goal of the season. Hertzog is now tied for third among all USL Championship players for most goals in 2019 and leaps into second in club history for most goals in a single season. Only former 1868 FC forward Dane Kelly has more with 18.
Midfielder Lindo Mfeka was credited with assists on Richard’s goal and Hertzog’s second goal.
Quakes goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski, defender Kevin Partida and midfielder Siad Haji were all featured in the Starting XI for Reno.
1868 FC are now 16-9-5 and occupy third in the Western Conference standings with four matches left in their regular-season schedule. Reno’s next two matches will be played at Greater Nevada Field. They host Real Monarchs SLC on Saturday, Sept. 28. Reno’s weekend fixture is set for 5:45 p.m. PT and will feature a soccer ball giveaway. Tickets can be purchased here.
