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Without head coach Rick Schantz and forward Junior Flemmings, Phoenix Rising FC beat LA Galaxy II 4-1 in its last regular season game. Blair Gavin served as interim manager in Schantz’s absence.
“This week has been very tough,” Gavin said. “The team was fantastic. The support has been amazing and I’m very thankful for all of them.”
In a spot reserved for members of Rising FC fan clubs, The Red Fury and Los Bandidos, banners and flags supporting the LGBTQ+ community replaced the usual signage. It was a way for fans of the club to come together and stand for what is right, according to Red Fury member Mark Richards.
“It’s been very upsetting this week,” Richards said. “This is why we on The Red Fury and also The Bandidos have all come together to make sure tonight we are representing all of our LGBTQ+ supporters.”
Early on, fans of the Rising were quieter than usual, especially after a quick Galaxy II goal from Augustin Williams. But then, at the 10-minute mark, Santi Moar drove a shot that tucked into the left corner of the net, tying the game.
Later in the first half, Sam Stanton gave Phoenix the lead on a shot into the opposite top corner, with an assist from Solomon Asante. Phoenix dominated in the first half, showing its pedigree as first place in Group B. The fans began to get into the game.
“We knew (the fans) were there and were respectful with what happened last Wednesday,” Moar said. “It was nice to hear them in the second half, chanting again. I heard them say they want the Cup, so now it’s time for that.”
The momentum didn’t stop for Phoenix, knocking in an additional two goals from A.J. Cochran and Stanton to end the game at 4-1. With all the pressure on the team since Wednesday, it didn’t look to affect the them on the pitch.
“2020 has been a heck of a year, heck of a season,” defender Joe Farrell said. “Tonight we capped it off the way that we thought we could do all season long. We’re ready for a playoff push.”
Next, Phoenix Rising FC enters the playoffs with a home matchup against Sacramento Republic FC during the weekend of Oct. 8-11. Dates and times for matchups have not been made available.
“It’s been a difficult couple of days for the club and supporters of the club,” Stanton said. “Winning always helps.”
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