Monterey Bay F.C. wins third straight home opener

SEASIDE, Calif. (KION) - Monterey Bay F.C. (1-0-1, 4 points) won its first match of the 2024 campaign, clinching a 1-0 victory over defending champion Phoenix Rising FC (0-0-2, 0 points).

Thanks to the win, the Crisp and Kelp remain undefeated in home-opening matches across their three-year history.

In the highly anticipated showdown, the Union debuted a new-look team featuring eight new players who signed in the offseason. Of those new additions, Ryan Dieter and Pierce Gallaway both made their professional debuts. Dieter entered the match in the 66th minute, Gallaway in the 84th.

The new-look team also continued to employ new tactics, pressing Phoenix Rising for the full 90 minutes. This would pay off in the 22nd when Rafael Baca drilled the match-winning goal which was a direct result.

Adrian Rebollar intercepted a pass in Phoenix's box and immediately found Baca out in front of the goal. Using his left foot, Baca sent home what would be the lone goal of the match.

The win also marks Antony Siaha's first clean sheet of the season. He finished with three saves by the final whistle.

Up next, Monterey Bay F.C. will now host Rhode Island FC (0-0-1, 1 point) on March 24 at Cardinale Stadium.