Rhode Island FC Finds Uneasy Stride

Winning is fun

Rhode Island FC secured a 3-2 victory over Miami FC at FIU Stadium, extending their unbeaten streak to five matches,by far the longest of their inaugural campaign.

RIFC defender Frank Nodarse and striker Albert "Chico" Dikwa were pivotal with goals, giving RIFC a commanding 3-0 lead. Despite late efforts from Miami, which included goals from Frank Lopez and Roberto Molino — Rhode Island FC's defending proved enough to clinch the win – if only just barely.

This victory marks RIFC'S third in the last five games, positioning them strongly for upcoming matches against Birmingham Legion FC and North Carolina FC and the playoff run in the back half of the season.

The first half saw Rhode Island open the scoring in the 11th minute when Marc Ybarra set up Nodarse for a headed goal from a free kick. Miami FC responded with early pressure but failed to convert its chances, including a close opportunity for Frank Lopez in the 37th minute.

Later, in first-half stoppage time, Dikwa extended RIFC's lead with a well-taken volley that hit the crossbar before going in, assisted by RIFC defender Karifa Yao. This one may not be without controversy as multiple players collided ahead of the shot and completely obscured the play in front of Miami goalkeeper Felipe Rodriguez.

Although Rhode Island scored twice in the first half, the second half proved even more exciting as Dikwa continued his scoring spree early, heading in RIFC winger Jojea Kwizera's cross to make it 3-0. Dikwa and Kwizera have made a deadly pair in recent weeks accounting for several of Rhode Island’s goals and assists.

However, despite Rhode Island FC’s commanding lead Miami FC were not out. First, they managed to pull one back in the 62nd minute through Frank Lopez's deflected shot, which beat RIFC goalkeeper Koke Vegas; who had reclaimed the spot from fellow goalkeeper Jackson Lee.

Miami, smelling blood in the water, intensified their attack and scored again in the 78th minute through Roberto Molino but Rhode Island FC held on defensively to see out the match in front of a very sparse Miami home crowd.

Both Jackson Lee and Koke Vegas have put in star turns between the sticks this season but they have also both allowed head-scratching goals that have — at times — allowed opponents back into games,and cost Rhode Island key points. Will RIFC head coach Khano Smith continue to ride the hot hand, or will he have a clear No. 1 going forward? Only time will tell.

Rhode Island FC will play away to Birmingham Legion FC on Wednesday, July 17 at 8 pm ET before returning home to host North Carolina FC on Saturday, July 27 at 7:30 pm ET at Beirne Stadium in Smithfield, Rhode Island.