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San Jose Earthquakes vs. Austin FC, October 20, 2021

Austin FC Forward MOUSSA DJITTÉ (99) takes a shot during warmups of the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Oct. 20, 2021

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 4, Austin FC 0
Wondolowski scores 169th MLS goal
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Austin FC 4-0 on Wednesday evening at PayPal Park. Four different players scored for San Jose, including Major League Soccer’s all-time leading scorer Chris Wondolowski.
After a scoreless first half, San Jose struck early in the second frame. Benji Kikanovic forced a turnover in the corner and carried the ball goalward. His lateral pass bounded past several players before finding Chofis at the back post for the short-range finish.
San Jose added a second just a few minutes later. Jeremy Ebobisse battled with his defender for possession of a long through ball with both eventually stumbling. Kikanovic recovered the loose ball and curled a low shot past goalkeeper Brad Stuver.
The Quakes extended their lead to 3-0 in the 59th minute. Cristian Espinoza played a floating ball into the box, which was cleared only as far as the penalty spot. Chris Wondolowski volleyed the bouncing ball into the back of the net.
San Jose then added a fourth goal in the 85th minute when Carlos Fierro headed home a corner kick by Cristian Espinoza.
The Quakes will now prepare to host Vancouver Whitecaps FC at PayPal Park, presented by Intermedia. The match, which will celebrate the 2001 MLS Cup-winning team, will kick off at 7 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on NBC Sports Bay Area, KNBR 1050 and 1370 KZSF.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold a 9-12-9 record (36 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in 10th place in the Western Conference.
San Jose is now 2-0-1 all-time vs. Austin, with a 1-0-0 home record. The Quakes have scored four goals in each of their last two meetings with Austin.
San Jose’s last victory by a margin of 4+ goals was vs. LA Galaxy (4-0) on Oct. 14, 2020.
The Quakes recorded their first multi-goal shutout victory since Sept. 29, in which the Quakes defeated LAFC 2-0 at PayPal Park.
Midfielder Chofis scored his team-leading 12th goal of the season, his first season in MLS. His 12 goals are the most by any first-year player in MLS. His goal also marked his second game-winning goal of the season.
Rookie forward Benji Kikanovic scored his third goal of the season.
Forward Jeremy Ebobisse tallied the assist on Kikanovic’s goal. It marked his first assist of the season and ninth of his MLS career.
Forward Chris Wondolowski scored his third goal of the season and 169th of his MLS career. Along with two postseason goals, he now has 171 combined regular season and playoff goals, surpassing Landon Donovan (170) for most all-time.
Midfielder Carlos Fierro scored his second goal of the season and fourth of his MLS career.
Midfielder Cristian Espinoza tallied the assist on Fierro’s goal. It marked his team-leading seventh assist of the season and 29th of his MLS career.
Tonight’s shutout marks JT Marcinkowski’s fifth shutout in 2021, and 10th of his MLS career. His five shutouts are a single-season career-high.

MATCH INFORMATION
MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 4 – 0 Austin FCOct. 20, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 12,035Man of the Match: Benji Kikanovic

Scoring Summary:SJ (1-0) – Chofis (unassisted) 46’SJ (2-0) – Benji Kikanovic (Jeremy Ebobisse) 53’SJ (3-0) – Chris Wondolowski (unassisted) 59’SJ (4-0) – Carlos Fierro (Cristian Espinoza) 85′
Misconduct Summary:SJ – Nathan (caution) 25’ATX – Jhohan Romaña (caution) 39’ATX – Alex Ring (caution) 45+1’SJ – Marcos Lopez (caution) 81′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez, Tanner Beason, Nathan, Tommy Thompson (Paul Marie 58); Eric Remedi, Jackson Yueill, Cristian Espinoza, Chofis (Cristian Espinoza 58); Andy Rios (Chris Wondolowski 58), Benji Kikanovic (Carlos Fierro 65), Jeremy Ebobisse (Cade Cowell 65).
Substitutes not used: Oswaldo Alanis, Tanner Beason, Judson, Shea Salinas, Daniel Vega.

SHOTS: 20; SHOTS ON GOAL: 9; FOULS: 14; CORNER KICKS: 10; SAVES: 4

AUSTIN FC: Brad Stuver; Jhohan Romaña, Julio Cascante, Zan Kolmanic, Nick Lima; Tomas Pochettino, Alex Ring, Sebastian Driussi (Dani Pereira 70); Cecilio Dominguez (Rodney Reyes 46), Diego Fagundez (Kekuta Manneh 80), Moussa Djitte (McKinze Gaines 46).
Substitutes not used: Sebastian Berhalter, Jon Gallagher, Hector Jimenez, Aedan Stanley, Andrew Tarbell.

SHOTS: 15; SHOTS ON GOAL: 5; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 8; SAVES: 5

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On his impressions of the match and shutout victory:“I think we played a great game. The strategy went well because we won the match by creating many opportunities to get shots on goal. When the team plays well, everyone plays well, even the guys who came off the bench. I think if we were able to maintain this consistency, intensity and style, surely our outlook would be different. It makes me happy for the young players. They showed they go for more even in a complicated present. I asked them to play for honor and they did that.”
On Benji Kikanovic’s impact as a winger:“I decided for him to play on the left side. Benji, Cade Cowell, Cristian Espinoza, Carlos Fierro can all play in different positions. That is what we are looking for and try to transmit to them. I have been saying for a while that when the young players have 30 matches played for San Jose, they will be more complete. Among four to five players, younger guys such as Tanner Beason, Jackson Yueill, Benji need these minutes to improve, make mistakes and grow physically and mentally.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI
On scoring his 169th MLS goal:“To be honest, it was a bit of a combo, both relief and joy. Joy to get that win, especially a breakout win in front of our home fans. It’s been a strong point for us to be better at home and to pick up points and it’s exciting to be able to get more points at home for it to be a fortress. That’s something that we try to work on and keep trying to continue to improve. To have this breakout game at home was very satisfying, very nice. For myself, I grab joy from that and for myself it’s a bit of a relief. It’s been a while since I’ve seen it hit the back of the net, so to do that was special as well.”
On the team’s confidence heading into the remaining few games after tonight’s win:“I think it’s something that was needed. I think it was great for the morale in the locker room. It was nice to have one of those tangible wins where everything went well. We worked on set pieces, and we were able to get a set piece goal. We worked on our diagonals and crosses, and we were able to get a goal like that. It was nice to have everything kind of click so I think that it’s very beneficial for us as we close on these last four games and try to make the best run as we can.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES GOALKEEPER JT MARCINKOWSKI
On Tanner Beason’s impact in the defense:“Tanner has done really well. He’s a gamer. I think he’s someone who leaves it all on the line. I think you can see that in his save and the countless number of blocks he makes throughout a match. I think the entire team played really well tonight because of the way we pressed in the first and second half. It was really effective. Our backline was really sharp and compact, and communicated really well with each other. Nathan, Marcos Lopez, Tommy Thompson and Paul Marie played well. I think Eric Remedi had six or seven key tackles in the middle, same with Jackson Yueill. It was overall a team effort and we were fortunate to get the clean sheet.”
On the team’s communication in the locker room:“Before the game, I think there was a really good vibe in the locker room. Matias Almeyda has always told us to play with love, passion and honor. I think that’s what we showed tonight. We played for each other, with each other as a team. At halftime, we tried to continue what we were doing in the first half. We created some good chances, and we knew if we kept a high intensity, goals would come in the second half. I think it was crucial getting a few early and putting ourselves on the front foot. I think that’s something we haven’t done well this year, putting teams away when we can. We let a lot of teams back into the game when they shouldn’t have been there. It was nice to finally get one where we scored goals when we needed to. After the match, it was a good vibe, but we’re ready for Saturday. It’s a quick turnaround. There’s only a short amount of time before the next game. All eyes are on Vancouver.”

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Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Seattle Sounders, September 29, 2021

San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper JT MARCINKOWSKI (1) before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Seattle Sounders at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Sept. 29, 2021

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Seattle Sounders FC 3
Quakes’ winning streak snapped at two
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Seattle Sounders FC 3-1 on Wednesday night at PayPal Park. The defeat snaps San Jose’s two-game winning streak.
Sounders FC took the lead in the 25th minute. Cristian Roldan played a pass to Raul Ruidiaz at the top of the box. He cut from his right foot onto his left foot and took a low shot out of the reach of goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski.
Ruidiaz doubled Seattle’s advantage in the 42nd minute, converting a penalty kick earned by Roldan moments earlier. Seattle then added a third goal in the 49th minute, with Roldan finishing off a lateral pass from Jimmy Medranda.
San Jose pulled one back just two minutes later when a cross by Marcos Lopez was redirected goalward by defender Shane O’Neill for an own goal.
The Earthquakes will now travel to Canada to face Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Saturday, Oct. 2. Saturday’s match will kick off from BC Place at 7:00 p.m. PT and will be aired on NBC Sports California Plus, KNBR 1050 and 1370 KZSF.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold an 8-10-9 record (33 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in 10th place in the Western Conference, just four points below the playoff line.
San Jose is now 11-15-8 all-time vs. Seattle, including a 5-5-5 record at home.
Rookie forward Benji Kikanovic made his third-straight start, playing 90 minutes.
Midfielder Jack Skahan made his first appearance since July 24 vs. Houston Dynamo FC.

MATCH INFORMATION
MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 1 – 3 Seattle Sounders FCSept. 29, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 11,361

Scoring Summary:SEA (1-0) – Raul Ruidiaz (Cristian Roldan) 25’SEA (2-0) – Raul Ruidiaz (penalty) 42’SEA (3-0) – Cristian Roldan (Jimmy Medranda, Fredy Montero) 49’SJ (3-1) – Shane O’Neil (own goal) 51′

Misconduct Summary:SJ – Judson (caution) 27’SEA – Raul Ruidiaz (caution) 38’SEA – Alex Roldan (caution) 83′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez, Nathan, Oswaldo Alanis (Cade Cowell 46), Judson (Luciano Abecasis 55); Shea Salinas (Andy Rios 54), Eric Remedi, Jackson Yueill, Carlos Fierro (Chris Wondolowski 54), Chofis (Jack Skahan 69); Benji Kikanovic.
Substitutes not used: Jacob Akanyirige, Paul Marie, Tommy Thompson, Daniel Vega.

SHOTS: 9; SHOTS ON GOAL: 3; FOULS: 13; CORNER KICKS: 10; SAVES: 2

SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC: Stefan Frei; Xavier Arreaga (Nouhou 46), Shane O’Neill, Yeimar Gomez Andrade; Cristian Roldan (Alex Roldan 82), Kelyn Rowe, Danny Leyva, Josh Atencio (Joao Paulo 46), Jimmy Medranda (Abdoulaye Cissoko 71); Raul Ruidiaz (Leo Chu 46), Fredy Montero (Alex Roldan 81).
Substitutes not used: Will Bruin, Stefan Cleveland, Ethan Dobbelaere.

SHOTS: 9; SHOTS ON GOAL: 5; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 2; SAVES: 3

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On the game plan for tonight’s match:“It was a different game plan because Seattle played differently. It was different because we had players that were out. It was different because back then we had few players available, and we had Florian Jungwirth in the middle of the field. But as I always say, each game and every moment is different.”
On Sounders FC containing San Jose’s offense:“I think we made mistakes on the way through. The game plan was different, and we intended to take away their game, how they play in between the lines. Once we recovered the ball, we wanted to play through the outside, not through the middle. That’s why we had Benji Kikanovic as a striker, Chofis was playing free, and we had Shea Salinas and Carlos Fierro playing on the outside. From that point of view, we should have avoided passes through the middle and in between our lines. That would have allowed us to have a free man in the back. Knowing the power that Seattle has, we couldn’t counteract their individual and collective parts. Their goals resulted from our turnovers, and a team like Seattle puts them away.”
On Seattle’s goals:“I think they came from the virtue of the opponent, but we also made mistakes on defense. The first mistake was allowing them to receive the ball in dangerous parts of the field. We hurt ourselves the most when we have the ball and give it away instead of passing it to a teammate. They took advantage of our mistakes. I’ve said all week that players like Raul Ruidíaz don’t forgive. Players like Cristian Roldan have a lot of mobility and will move into a position to score. We discussed things that could have been avoided but we have to give credit to the virtue of these players.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI
On what went wrong in the game plan:“I think that we compounded our mistakes and I mean that by saying Seattle is such a tough opponent and you need to be able to move them side to side with possession. You need to be able to wear them down and also be able to try to expand them and so that you can take out pockets in their organization and we weren’t able to do that. They pressed very high. They did a great job of sending their wing backs up on us and we were missing passes that we normally make and when we miss those passes, it kind of compounds and then we were on our back foot. We were defending a little bit deeper and then we’re not able to trigger our press in the right area of the field and then again when you’re not able to do that, we’re a step late. When we’re not doing it at the right place or at the right time, we’re a step late, against Seattle when given that time can tear you apart.”
On why the team appeared indecisive in attack:“Yeah, when we’re unable to keep a steady possession then we are unable to send our wing backs and send our outside backs forward unless we have that secure possession and when we don’t have those guys coming forward, we end up isolating ourselves way too much. Leaving ourselves one on one or in a lot of cases especially against Seattle 1v2. They do a great job especially with their back three. That’s one of their best traits is they’re able to push out and those three center backs do such a great job whether they’re following a number 10 or a number 9 into the space both behind or in front. I think that’s what they do best, closing down that space and so when we’re unable to keep that possession, secure that possession, it really hurts us and it puts us in some precarious positions.”
On how this result affects the team’s confidence:“It hurts in the sense that it’s at home. We feel extremely confident that when we are at home that we need to pick up points and it doesn’t matter the opponent. That being said, you look at the other results, today it didn’t do us too much damage, but that being said it would’ve been a perfect day to move up the table. So, we’re still outside looking in, but we have a huge one against Vancouver on Saturday and if and when we pick up three points there, we can really start to get a move in. The faith hasn’t wavered one bit in the locker room and we still feel confident. We feel that we can do a lot of great things in these seven games and really start clicking.”

####

Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) September 25, 2021

Los Angeles Football Club newcomer Goalkeeper JAMAL BLACKMAN before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Los Angeles Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Sept. 25, 2021

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, LAFC 0Reigning MLS Player of the Week Chofis tallies one goal and one assist
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Los Angeles Football Club 2-0 on Saturday night at PayPal Park. The Quakes are now 5-2-4 in their last 11 matches and are just three points below the playoff line in the Western Conference. San Jose also extended their winning streak vs. LAFC to four matches.
The Quakes jumped out to an early lead in the third minute. Chofis, the reigning MLS Player of the Week, played a through ball past multiple defenders to Benji Kikanovic, who dribbled around the goalkeeper before passing the ball into the empty net.
San Jose then doubled their lead in the 47th minute. Marcos Lopez played a pass across the front of goal and Chofis first timed his shot past goalkeeper Tomas Romero. Chofis has now tallied six goals and an assist in the last three matches.
Quakes goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski made three saves in the shutout. It marked his fourth shutout of the season and second shutout victory.
The Earthquakes will remain in San Jose to host Seattle Sounders FC on Wednesday, Sept. 29, presented by Intermedia. Wednesday marks the Quakes’ annual College Night and will kick off from PayPal Park at 7:30 p.m. PT. The match will be broadcast on NBC Sports Bay Area Plus, KNBR 1050 and KZSF 1370.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold an 8-9-9 record (33 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in 10th place in the Western Conference, just three points below the playoff line.
The Quakes extended their winning streak against LAFC to four. San Jose is now 4-5-0 all-time vs. LAFC, including a 3-2-0 record at home.
San Jose earned their second shutout victory of the season and first since July 31 (1-0 vs. SEA). Tonight’s win was also the first at PayPal Park since Aug. 8 against LAFC (W 2-1). It marked the Quakes’ first shutout victory by multiple goals since Oct. 28, 2020 vs. RSL (2-0).
Midfielder Chofis scored his team-leading 11th goal of the season and 11th of his MLS career. He has now scored six goals in the last three matches and is the league’s leading scorer during the month of September (6). He has also scored in consecutive matches vs. LAFC. Additionally, Chofis tallied an assist on Kikanovic’s goal, marking his third assist of the season and first game-winning assist.
Chofis became the first Earthquakes player to score in three straight matches since Vako in July 2019.
Rookie forward Benji Kikanovic scored his second goal of the season and of his MLS career. He has now tallied one goal and one assist in the last two matches.
Defender Marcos Lopez tallied an assist on Chofis’ goal, marking his first assist of the season and fourth of his MLS career.
Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski secured his fourth shutout of the season and ninth of his MLS career.
Midfielder Shea Salinas entered the match as a substitute in the 82nd minute, marking his first appearance since Sept. 4 against the Colorado Rapids.

MATCH INFORMATION
MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 2 – 0 Los Angeles Football ClubSept. 25, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 16,927Man of the Match: Chofis

Scoring Summary:SJ (1-0) – Benji Kikanovic (Chofis) 3’SJ (2-0) – Chofis (Marcos Lopez) 47′

Misconduct Summary:SJ – Nathan (caution) 31’SJ – Cristian Espinoza (caution) 34’LAFC – Danny Crisostomo (caution) 39’SJ – Luciano Abecasis (caution) 64’LAFC – Jose Cifuentes (caution) 75’SJ – Marcos Lopez (caution) 86’LAFC – Raheem Edwards (caution) 90+5′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez (Cade Cowell 88), Nathan, Oswaldo Alanis, Luciano Abecasis; Eric Remedi, Judson; Chofis (Shea Salinas 82), Jackson Yueill, Cristian Espinoza (Tommy Thompson 76); Benji Kikanovic (Chris Wondolowski 88).
Substitutes not used: Carlos Fierro, Paul Marie, Andy Rios, Jack Skahan, Daniel Vega.

SHOTS: 7; SHOTS ON GOAL: 2; FOULS: 17; CORNER KICKS: 0; SAVES: 3

LAFC: Tomas Romero, Mamadou Fall, Diego Palacios (Raheem Edwards 59), Sebastien Ibeagha (Marco Farfan 58), Moon-Hwan Kim (Latif Blessing 59), Jesus Murillo, Francisco Ginella, Jose Cifuentes, Daniel Crisostomo, Danny Musovski (Bryce Duke 59), Cristian Arango.
Substitutes not used: Jamal Blackmon, Jordan Harvey, Pablo Sisniega.

SHOTS: 13; SHOTS ON GOAL: 3; FOULS: 21; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 0

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On his tactics in tonight’s match:“I think we played a really intelligent game. We planned for this type of game against the formation that the opponent has been using. The players understood and responded well to the formation change we made.”
On Benji Kikanovic’s contributions and his growth:“I think Benji is one of the young players that is learning day-by-day. He has perfectly understood the identity we want the players to have at San Jose. He is a player with pace, he is good in the aerial game and has great technique. He really works a lot for the team. He was able to put away the chance that came from a great pass from Chofis. He also worked hard in the defensive phase. I am really pleased when the young players perform well. It makes me happy for them and for the club.”
On his conversations with the players about playoffs:“For us, as long as the math is there, we will try to be competitive, and we will compete until the end. They know the mentality I try to transmit to them. Sometimes we see that reflected, other times we are missing a bit, but we are generally happy with it.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL
On the team’s formation and how it impacted the match:“These last 10 games here, we know that we need to get wins, and wins at home in particular and part of that is being able to control the ball and how we press. Having Eric [Remedi], Judson and myself in the midfield really helps the team a lot. It’s important to try and fit everyone in there, and fit Chofis in there in his natural position as the number 10 and get him the ball as much as possible. I think it was a little bit of what LAFC showed and trying to work against them and finding the right spots to get Chofis on the ball and finding the right passes in behind. As you saw on the first goal, he was able to do that. The plan was to get him on the ball in central locations and try to work around him and try to eliminate LAFC’s quality as well. That was the reasoning for that, and I think it worked out well today.”
On the team’s form in the upcoming stretch run:“I think there are still a lot of games left. It’s still really close and these two games were important for us. We’ve narrowed down to the last third of the season. We learned from our first year to last year of when to push and when to hit our stride. We hit a really good stride last year going into the playoffs and that helped us a lot. I think the team is in a really good spot. Collectively, as a group, how we’re interacting, the motivation and dialogue in the locker room is really positive and great and it showed tonight that the guys have a desire to win. Even though it’s going to be close up until the end, the guys have the desire to push for the playoffs and try to get up in the table as high as we can and play as best as we can.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD BENJI KIKANOVIC
On the goal and his run:“I knew it right as Chofis got the ball. All three of the defenders looked at him and I was like, ‘I’m going to run in behind them.’ I know Chofis is good enough to play me the ball on time and play me a good-weighted ball and I just went. He played it on time, and I took a touch past the goalkeeper and just put it away. It was a great ball by Chofis and there’s not much to it.”
On his previous comments about wanting to be more involved:“I thought I did better than last game. I think each game, as long I’m improving, it’s good for me and good for the team. Obviously, it wasn’t the best, but it is what it is and we got the win and we’re just going to keep on going. I think the more that I play and as I get more minutes under my belt, I should be alright. But I think tonight was much better than last game. It’s an improvement but it’s not good enough.”

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Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Real Salt Lake (RSL), September 15, 2021

San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JUDSON (93) dribbles away from Real Salt Lake Midfielder DAMIR KREILACH (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Real Salt Lake at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Sept. 15, 2021

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 3, Real Salt Lake 4Quakes midfielder Chofis scores hat-trick
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Real Salt Lake 4-3 on Wednesday night at PayPal Park.

The Quakes jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the 26th minute. After receiving a long ball over the top, Chofis cut onto his left foot and blasted a shot around goalkeeper David Ochoa.
Just moments before halftime, Real Salt Lake scored the equalizer. A low header off a corner kick forced a diving save by Quakes goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski, but the ball rebounded off Rubio Rubin and into the back of the net.
RSL took the lead four minutes into the second half when Albert Rusnak received a pass at the top of the box and sent his low shot just out of reach of Marcinkowski’s outstretched arms.
San Jose responded immediately with an equalizer just one minute later. Chofis received a pass from the kickoff and proceeded to dribble half the length of the field, evading multiple defenders before beating Ochoa.
Chofis then finished off his hat-trick with a goal in the 65th minute as his curling corner kick beat Ochoa at the near post.
RSL equalized once again six minutes later when a free kick into the box glanced off Justin Meram’s head and caromed off Quakes defender Oswaldo Alanis and into the net.
The visiting side then took the lead in the 81st minute through a low shot from Rubin.
The Earthquakes will now prepare to travel to Texas to face Austin FC on Saturday, Sept. 18. The match kicks off from Q2 Stadium at 5:00 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on NBC Sports Bay Area Plus, KGO 810 and 1370 KZSF.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold a 6-9-9 record (27 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in 11th place in the Western Conference.
San Jose is now 13-12-11 all-time against Real Salt Lake, including a 9-6-4 record at home.
The Quakes have scored first in 10 of their last 13 matches (conceded first twice and had one match finish in a scoreless draw).
Midfielder Chofis scored his team-leading sixth, seventh and eighth goals of the season and of his MLS career. It also marked his first multi-goal game since joining the Quakes and the first hat-trick by an Earthquakes player since Chris Wondolowski on May 18, 2019. Chofis is the first player to score 8+ goals in his first season with San Jose since Alejandro Moreno in 2005 (8).
Defender Luciano Abecasis tallied the assist on Chofis’ first goal. It marked his third assist of the season and third of his MLS career.
Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski made a career-high nine saves.

MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 3 – 4 Real Salt LakeSept. 15, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 9,636Man of the Match: Chofis

Scoring Summary: SJ – Chofis (Luciano Abecasis) 26; RSL – Rubio Rubin (unassisted) 45+2; RSL – Albert Rusnak (Pablo Ruiz) 49; SJ – Chofis (unassisted) 50; SJ – Chofis (unassisted) 65; RSL – Justin Meram (Albert Rusnak) 71; RSL – Rubio Rubin (Albert Rusnak) 81.
Misconduct Summary: RSL – Nick Besler (caution) 8; SJ – Judson (caution) 59; RSL – Donny Toia (caution) 65; RSL – Pablo Ruiz (caution) 67; SJ – Chofis (caution) 69; SJ – Eric Remedi (caution) 72; RSL – Damir Kreilach (caution) 75.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez, Tanner Beason, Oswaldo Alanis, Luciano Abecasis (Cristian Espinoza 63); Judson (Paul Marie 63), Eric Remedi; Carlos Fierro (Cade Cowell 64), Jackson Yueill, Chofis (Andy Rios 80); Chris Wondolowski (Benji Kikanovic 63).
Substitutes not used: Jack Skahan, Daniel Vega, Tommy Thompson, Jacob Akanyirige.

SHOTS: 13; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 15; CORNER KICKS: 4; SAVES: 9

REAL SALT LAKE: David Ochoa; Donny Toia, Justen Glad, Marcelo Silva (Erik Holt 22); Justin Meram (Ashtone Morgon 90), Jonathan Menendez (Pablo Ruiz 46), Albert Rusnak, Nick Besler, Maikel Chang (Toni Datkovic 83); Damir Kreilach, Rubio Rubin (Anderson Julio 82).
Substitutes not used: Bode Davis, Milan Iloski, Justin Portillo, Andrew Putna.

SHOTS: 18; SHOTS ON GOAL: 13; FOULS: 20; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 3

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER CHOFIS
On his emotions during and after the match:“Honestly, I am sadder than I am happy because of the result. We would have liked to win and things would have been very different. I am sad because we didn’t win. My only thoughts are in the 10 matches that are left. I really want to make it to the playoffs. I’ve never had a match as great as today. That doesn’t matter anymore. We will try to turn things around and focus on Saturday. I wish it were Saturday already. I want to play and get the three points that we need, and that is where my thoughts are.”
On the decisions going into his substitution:“I was a little sore in the leg. Truthfully, I gave it my all. I tried helping in everything and I became tired. I just want to clarify that we were being precautious. I was tired and had some pain in my leg.”
On his future in San Jose:“Yeah, it’s true that I still have a little left in my loan here. The truth is that I’m loving my time here. I love the people, I love the city, I love the environment. Everyone has treated me very well since I arrived, and I would love to continue to be here. Hopefully this team buys my clause and I can stay a lot longer. But it’s true that I belong to another team right now and I still have a lot of respect for them and that’s who I belong to.”

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Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United FC (MNUFC), August 17, 2021

San Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Minnesota United Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Aug. 17, 2021

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Minnesota United FC 1
Quakes extend unbeaten streak to nine; Wondo makes 400th MLS appearance

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United FC played to a 1-1 draw on Tuesday night at PayPal Park. The draw extends the Quakes’ unbeaten streak to a league-best nine matches and sees them climb to ninth place in the Western Conference, level on points with seventh place Portland and eighth place LAFC. Chris Wondolowski made his 400th MLS appearance in the match, entering as a second-half substitute.

San Jose opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Cristian Espinoza received a long switch from Marcos Lopez and sent a low cross across the six-yard box, deflecting off a back-tracking defender and into his own net.
The Quakes dropped to 10 men in the 21st minute after Nathan was shown a straight red card. Minnesota capitalized on the man advantage immediately, finding the equalizer one minute later through Wil Trapp.
San Jose played nearly 70 minutes plus stoppage time with 10 men and were able to secure a point.
The Earthquakes will now travel to southern California to face the LA Galaxy in the third California Clasico of the season. The match kicks off from Dignity Health Sports Park at 7:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, and via radio on KNBR 1050 and 1370 KZSF.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold a 5-7-8 record (23 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in ninth place in the Western Conference.
The Quakes extended their unbeaten streak to eight matches (2-0-7). It marks the club’s first unbeaten stretch of 9+ matches in a single season since the final nine matches of 2012 (5-0-4).
San Jose is now 4-3-2 all-time against Minnesota, including a 2-2-1 record at PayPal Park.
The Quakes have now allowed one or fewer goals in eight consecutive matches.
Forward Chris Wondolowski made his 400th MLS appearance, entering the match in the 86th minute. He became just the seventh player, fifth non-goalkeeper, and first forward to reach the milestone.

MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Minnesota United FCAug. 17, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 10,353Michelob Man of the Match: Judson

Scoring Summary: SJ – Bakaye Dibassy (own goal) 12; MIN – Wil Trapp (Adrien Hunou, Ethan Finlay) 22.
Misconduct Summary: SJ – Nathan (ejection) 21; MIN – DJ Taylor (caution) 82; MIN – Bakaye Dibassy (caution) 89; SJ – Marcos Lopez (caution) 90+4.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez, Tanner Beason, Nathan, Luciano Abecasis (Carlos Fierro 74); Shea Salinas (Paul Marie 55), Judson, Eric Remedi (Chris Wondolowski 86), Jackson Yueill, Cristian Espinoza (Cade Cowell 55); Jeremy Ebobisse.
Substitutes not used: Oswaldo Alanis, Siad Haji, Andy Rios, Jack Skahan, Daniel Vega

SHOTS: 4; SHOTS ON GOAL: 1; FOULS: 11; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 2

MINNESOTA UNITED FC: Tyler Miller; Bakaye Dibassy, Brent Kallman, Romain Metanire; Jan Gregus (Justin McMaster 64), Emanuel Reynoso, Ethan Finlay, Wil Trapp, DJ Taylor, Hassani Dotson; Adrien Hunou (Juan Agudelo 79).
Substitutes not used: Osvaldo Alonso, Michael Boxall, Fred Emmings, Jukka Raitala, Patrick Weah, Adrian Zendejas.

SHOTS: 15; SHOTS ON GOAL: 3; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 7; SAVES: 1

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On tactical decisions made after the red card:“When I make substitutions, I am sending a message. The message is that I want to win. It’s simple. The players were great interpreters and we corrected things during halftime. Defensively, the players executed perfectly. We had our chances to score from counterattacks.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER LUCIANO ABECASIS
On the team’s mindset after Nathan’s ejection:“It was a valuable point with how the match turned out in the end and the fact that we were playing for a long time with one less player. It was clear by the team’s ambition that we wanted the three points because we needed them. The red card limited us a lot, but it forced the best out of each of us and we were able to hold onto the game and create chances on top of that. I think that the draw was fair given we were one man down. They had their chances and we had ours. We spoke in the locker room about staying focused, that we needed everyone’s maximum effort. That’s what we did, and I think we left a really good image with one less player.”
On giving advice to his substitute Carlos Fierro:“I didn’t speak much with him because we had already chatted in the locker room during halftime. Matias spoke to us, went over the changes we had to make for those of us playing outside, and for those that were going in to play in those positions, Matias asked them to pay attention. Carlos was one of them, so I think it was a credit to him for understanding it fast and credit to the coach for letting him know and preparing the moves beforehand because we knew that the game could happen that way.”

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Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Los Angeles FC (LAFC), August 8, 2021

Los Angeles FC Forward CRISTIAN “CHICHO” ARANGO (29) kneels before his first MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Los Angeles Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Aug. 8, 2021

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, Los Angeles FC 1Quakes extend unbeaten streak to seven, Ebobisse makes Quakes debut
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated LAFC 2-1 on Sunday afternoon at PayPal Park. The victory sees the Earthquakes extend their unbeaten streak to seven (2-0-5), the longest active streak in Major League Soccer. Forward Jeremy Ebobisse, acquired via trade with Portland on Thursday, made his Earthquakes debut.
San Jose took the lead in the 11th minute. Cristian Espinoza sent a free kick towards the near post and Nathan got just enough on the ball to redirect it past goalkeeper Tomas Romero. The Quakes added a second 17 minutes later when Espinoza dribbled past his defender and laid off a pass to Chofis, who scored with a low shot from close range.
LAFC would halve the lead minutes before halftime when a Carlos Vela free kick caromed off Quakes midfielder Jackson Yueill for an own goal.
Earthquakes goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski made six total saves in the victory. He has allowed no more than a single goal in all of the Quakes’ last six matches.
The Earthquakes will remain in San Jose to host Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Friday, Aug. 13, presented by CEFCU. The match kicks off from PayPal Park at 7:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast live on NBC Sports Bay Area, KNBR 1050 and 1370 KZSF.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold a 5-7-6 record (21 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in 10th place in the Western Conference.
The Quakes extended their unbeaten streak to seven matches (2-0-5). It marks the club’s first unbeaten stretch of 7+ matches in a single season since the final seven matches of 2013 (5-0-2).
The Quakes extended their winning streak against LAFC to three. San Jose is now 3-5-0 all-time vs. LAFC, including a 2-2-0 record at home.
Defender Nathan scored his second goal of the season and the second of his MLS career. He has now scored two goals in his first seven appearances with the Quakes.
Midfielder Chofis scored his fifth goal of the season and the fifth of his MLS career, making him the team’s goal leader. He has now scored in each of the last two matches. Today’s goal marked the first game-winning goal of his MLS career.
Midfielder Cristian Espinoza tallied assists on Nathan and Chofis’ goals, marking his fifth and sixth assists of the season and 27th and 28th of his MLS career. It marks the first time an Earthquakes player tallied two or more assists in a single match since April 24, 2021 (Cade Cowell; two vs. D.C. United). Espinoza has now tallied six assists, including two game-winning assists, in six regular season appearances vs. LAFC.
Midfielder Jackson Yueill made his 100th MLS appearance, starting and playing 90 minutes.
Forward Jeremy Ebobisse made his Earthquakes debut, entering the match as a substitute in the 36th minute.

MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 2 – 1 Los Angeles Football ClubAug. 8, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 18,000 (sellout)Michelob Man of the Match: Cristian Espinoza

Scoring Summary: SJ – Nathan (Cristian Espinoza) 11; SJ – Chofis (Cristian Espinoza) 28; LAFC – Jackson Yueill (own goal) 39.
Misconduct Summary: LAFC – Jesus Murillo (caution) 10; SJ – Cade Cowell (caution) 38; SJ – Jeremy Ebobisse (caution) 76; LAFC – Diego Rossi (caution) 78.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Luciano Abecasis (Jeremy Ebobisse 36), Oswaldo Alanis, Nathan, Tanner Beason; Shea Salinas (Carlos Fierro 70), Judson, Jackson Yueill (Chris Wondolowski 83), Cristian Espinoza, Chofis (Eric Remedi 70); Cade Cowell (Paul Marie 46).
Substitutes not used: Siad Haji, Andy Rios, Jack Skahan, Daniel Vega.

SHOTS: 15; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 6; SAVES: 6

LAFC: Tomas Romero, Diego Palacios, Tristan Blackmon, Moonhwan Kim, Jesus Murillo (Mamadou Fall 46); Francisco Ginella (Danny Musovski 74), Jose Cifuentes (Latif Blessing 63), Eduard Atuesta; Carlos Vela, Brian Rodriguez (Diego Rossi 46), Cristian Arango (Raheem Edwards 68).
Substitutes not used: Daniel Crisostomo, Marco Farfan, Sebastien Ibeagha, Pablo Sisniega.

SHOTS: 16; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 14; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 2

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On the team’s improvement:“I do think that we have improved a lot. We have modified some things. We have to keep on improving in order to grow. Keeping in mind the teams we are up against and the way we are playing, I think there has been a lot of growth. We have to stay on this path and that is the most important thing.”
On the debut of Jeremy Ebobisse:“I think it was sped up because I had to make a quick change. I think he Is a player that will give San Jose a lot. Whenever a player wins on their debut, that is important. He and his teammates gave their maximum effort.”
On Nathan’s impact on the Quakes:“I think he is an excellent reinforcement. Game after game, he has been adapting very well. He is a great professional and teammate. Nathan and his teammates keep growing game after game.”
On Chofis’ form and recent performances:“I am looking at Chofis’ form from a day-to-day perspective. He is very professional. He is focused on growing and improving, I don’t think he’s even realized his potential. He is performing well. He still has room to improve and he is in search of reaching that level I think he can get to. He went a year and half without playing and the season he is having says a lot about him.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER CRISTIAN ESPINOZA
On the tactical changes during today’s match:”I think the team did well because we had been training with different tactical options during the week. We were ready so that each one of us knew what to do in case there would be a tactical change during the game.”
On his thoughts on Jeremy Ebobisse since his arrival:“He’s great player, complete, very technical and powerful. As he continues to train more and more, he will continue to adapt better to Matias’ style of play, although I think he did well today. Hopefully we can help him in the best way possible in the attack.”
On what the team needs to do to earn more wins and extend the unbeaten streak:“I think it’s fundamental that we continue to keep the order that we’ve had in these last few matches. The last three or four matches were against really good teams, the best in the league in my opinion. We’ve done well. We’ve been able to take the victory in two of them, so I think it’s about keeping order and continue to be a team that gets better physically. We know there are a lot of things that we need to improve on, both defensively and offensively. We’re on the right path to accomplish our goal.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD JEREMY EBOBISSE
On debuting at PayPal Park:“It’s better to play for them than against. I’ve had some tough experiences playing here at PayPal Park. It was always a battle, and you can feel the energy that they fed to the team and the team would run with it and put us under a ton of pressure. To have them on our back this time was reenergizing, and it was great to get a big win against LAFC in front of them and I think there’s many more to come.”
On adjusting to the pace of the match:“I think it was up to getting up to speed on the tactics as quickly as possible, understanding who was coming out and who was sliding into which position and making sure my entry into the game didn’t cause any setbacks from a tactical perspective. From there, it was about enjoying the game and coming out with energy and feeling natural. I think for my first game, I did that pretty well and I was pleased with the connection with the wingers and the way they read my touches on the ball and they were able to find the spaces that I would eventually put the ball in. Then obviously in a striker you look for goals and I understand that’s something I’ll be looking to contribute even more in my next performances. I think we got into good spaces as a team. The pressure put LAFC under a lot of difficulty. Our counter-attacks and the way we built up put them in tough spots as well. We have threats from every position on the field and it’s about utilizing that and complimenting each other moving forward.”
On his transition into San Jose:“It was a really warm welcome from everyone, starting with the fans and getting into the locker room with players, coaches. Everyone in the team environment has been super open and have been trying to make it as easy as possible for me to feel settled in. Once we get onto the field, we all speak the same language, the language of the sport and we start to see different connections popping up. It’s just really exciting and refreshing to be in this environment. There’s more for me to give from a personality standpoint and then from a footballing standpoint. The first couple of days, with the hectic nature of packing up, taking a flight and getting acquainted with a new system, meeting everyone and getting to know different names and different tendencies, I think it’s been a relatively smooth transition.”

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Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Seattle Sounders, May 12, 2021

San Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) shields the ball from Seattle Sounders Midfielder ETHAN DOBBELAERE (45) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Seattle Sounders at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 0, Seattle Sounders FC 1

Quakes snap three-game winning streak, host Portland on Saturday

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Seattle Sounders FC 1-0 on Wednesday night at PayPal Park. The result snaps the Quakes’ three-match winning streak but sees them remain in second place in the Western Conference.

Seattle took the lead in the 18th minute when a short clearance fell to Cristian Roldan, who would take a left-footed shot and send it past JT Marcinkowski. It would be Seattle’s only shot on goal during the match.

The back-and-forth contest saw a dramatic ending when Sounders FC goalkeeper Stefan Frei was injured late, forcing midfielder Alex Roldan to replace him. Despite a flurry of chances, and five shots on goal in the second half, San Jose could not find the equalizer.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold a 3-2-0 record (9 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in second place in the Western Conference.
San Jose has conceded just one goal in four consecutive matches.

MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 0 – 1 Seattle Sounders FCMay 12, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.
Scoring Summary: SEA – Cristian Roldan (unassisted) 18.
Misconduct Summary: SEA – Raul Ruidiaz (caution) 39; SJ – Chris Wondolowski (caution) 73; SEA – Stefan Frei (caution) 78; SJ – Luciano Abecasis (caution) 80.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez (Luciano Abecasis 69), Tanner Beason, Florian Jungwirth, Tommy Thompson (Shea Salinas 58); Eric Remedi, Jackson Yueill; Carlos Fierro, Chofis (Chris Wondolowski 65), Cristian Espinoza; Cade Cowell (Andy Rios 65).
Substitutes not used: Judson, Benji Kikanovic, Paul Marie, Jack Skahan, Daniel Vega.
SHOTS: 5; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 9.

SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC: Stefan Frei; Xavier Arreaga, Nouhou, Yeimar Gomez Andrade; Cristian Roldan, Jordy Delem (Shane O’Neill 8), Alex Roldan, Kelyn Rowe (Brad Smith 83), Ethan Dobbelaere (Fredy Montero 46), Danny Leyva (Joao Paulo 60); Raul Ruidiaz.
Substitutes not used: Will Bruin, Reed Baker-Whiting, Spencer Richey.
SHOTS: 17, SHOTS ON GOAL: 1; FOULS: 13; CORNER KICKS: 2.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On the result:“I’m very happy because we went up against the best team in the league and showed important things in respect to the sport. I can’t just takeaway the result when the opponent had a single shot at our goal. I take away the number of chances we created against an excellent team with a really good defense. We had our chances but this time we were unable to complete them. We would have liked to tie the game, that would have been fair. The first 25 minutes were back and forth. We were beginning to improve, and we were doing things right for a couple of moments.”
On the team’s approach to chances created throughout the match:“I am pleased with the team’s production while they were looking for the tie, and ultimately the win if they had tied the game. That’s the way soccer goes. You prepare, you get there and for some reason you can’t put them away. You play against a team of this pedigree and they only needed one shot to score a great goal. I will highlight the path we took in trying to tie the game, that intensity, getting through on the sides, the mobility and the pressure. We saw a lot of good things.”
On facing the Portland Timbers on Saturday:“We will have to make a thorough analysis of Portland. For us, every team in the league is challenging, not just Seattle and Portland. We respect everyone but we know we have to be doing very well to compete against anybody. We will analyze Portland, and then we will assess who has recovered from this match and determine if changes are necessary in order to renew energy.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL
On tonight’s performance in comparison to previous matches vs. Seattle:“I think since my time here, four or five years [ago], they’ve been one of the consistent teams in MLS. They’re a very good side for a reason, they have really good players, and they have a system that they’re all bought in to. For sure they’re a challenging team to play against. You saw why tonight. We made them suffer a lot, and we pressed them hard, and they were able to win and do that against many other teams. I think this is a right step for us. I think, regardless of the result, the effort was there, the attitude at the end, and the second half for the team was in the right direction. It was just about finishing our chances and coming out ready to play at the beginning of the game. I think we gave away the goal early on, and we were a little slow at the beginning. I think that’s something to be improved on. But I think there were a lot of positives to take from this game and there is a lot of season to go so we’ll get our chances again.”
On playing alongside Eric Remedi so far this season:“I think Eric is a great addition to the team. He’s very similar to myself and Judson in his mobility, his work rate, being on the ball, his aggression, and his sacrifice for the team. He cares a lot about helping the guys around him, so I think those are all really, really good qualities. I think he’s really talented with the ball. He’s able to get us out of situations when we’re building up from the back. He’s always wanting the ball, he’s always asking for the ball, so he’s a guy to kind of relieve pressure from the rest of the team, especially myself. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know him better and I think his influence on the team has been really good. The more he gets into the game and incorporates Judson, I think we’re really strong midfielders who will be a hard combination no matter who’s in there to play against.”

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Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Vancouver Whitecaps, October 7, 2020

Vancouver Whitecaps Defender ERIK GODOY (22) jumps to receive the ball with San Jose Earthquakes Forward CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI (8) in pursuit during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Vancouver Whitecaps at Earthquakes Stadium in San Jose, California

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 3, Vancouver Whitecaps FC 0

Quakes earn third consecutive victory, surge to seventh place

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes earned a 3-0 win over Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Wednesday evening at Earthquakes Stadium, marking their third consecutive victory. Paul Marie scored the first goal of his MLS career, goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski earned the first shutout victory of his career, and San Jose set a club record with five Homegrown Players appearing in the match.
San Jose took the lead five minutes into the second half when Cristian Espinoza evaded a challenge in the box and blasted his shot into the lower-left corner of the net. Vancouver would go down to 10 men moments later when defender Andy Rose received his second yellow card.
The Quakes doubled their advantage in the 66th minute. Carlos Fierro played a ball across the box that found Andy Rios in stride and his first-timed strike beat goalkeeper Evan Bush.
Vancouver lost another player to ejection in the 75th minute and San Jose took advantage, with Paul Marie scoring his first career goal three minutes into stoppage time.
The Earthquakes will now travel to face the Portland Timbers on Sunday, Oct. 11, presented by Lux Bus America. Kickoff from Providence Park is slated for 7:00 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast on NBC Sports California, KNBR 1050 and 1370 KZSF.

GAME NOTES
San Jose now holds a 5-6-5 record in the 2020 regular season and sit in seventh place in the Western Conference. Eight teams make the postseason from the West.
The Earthquakes have won three consecutive matches for just the second time since August 2015 (July 2019).
The Earthquakes are one of five teams in MLS to win each of their last three matches.
The Quakes now hold a 4-0-0 record in their last four meetings with Whitecaps FC, scoring at least three goals in each of them.
San Jose set a club record with five Homegrown Players appearing in a match for the first time (Cowell, Fuentes, Lima, Marcinkowski, Thompson). The Quakes also had each of their last three first-round SuperDraft picks appear in the match (Beason, Haji, Marie).
Homegrown goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski earned his first shutout of the season and second of his MLS career. It also marked the first shutout victory of his career.
Midfielder Cristian Espinoza scored his second goal of the season and fourth of his MLS career. He has now tallied a goal or assist in three consecutive matches, totaling one goal and three assists in that span. It also marked his second game-winning goal of the season and second of his MLS career.
Forward Andy Rios scored his fourth goal of the season and fifth of his MLS career. He has now scored in each of the last two matches.
Defender Paul Marie scored the first goal of his MLS career.
Midfielder Carlos Fierro was credited with an assist on Rios’ goal. It marked his second assist of the season and second of his MLS career.
Defender Tommy Thompson was credited with an assist on both Rios’ and Marie’s goals. It marked his third and fourth assists of the season, and eighth and ninth of his MLS career. His four assists this season tie his single-season career high (2017).
Eighteen-year-old Homegrown Gilbert Fuentes made his first appearance of the season and third of his MLS career, entering as a substitute in the 85th minute.
Midfielder Siad Haji made his first appearance of the season, entering as a substitute in the 88th minute.

MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 3 – 0 Vancouver Whitecaps FCOct. 7, 2020 – Earthquakes Stadium in San Jose, Calif.
Scoring Summary: SJ – Cristian Espinoza (Nick Lima) 50; SJ – Andy Rios (Carlos Fierro, Tommy Thompson) 66; SJ – Paul Marie (Tommy Thompson) 90+3.
Misconduct Summary: VAN – Andy Rose (caution) 17; SJ – Florian Jungwirth (caution) 45+4; VAN – Andy Rose (ejection) 53; VAN – Michael Baldisimo (caution) 60; VAN – Erik Godoy (ejection) 75.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Nick Lima (Paul Marie 85), Tanner Beason, Florian Jungwirth, Tommy Thompson; Carlos Fierro (Gilbert Fuentes 85), Judson, Jackson Yueill, Cristian Espinoza (Siad Haji 88); Andy Rios (Shea Salinas 77), Chris Wondolowski (Cade Cowell 76).
Substitutes not used: Oswaldo Alanis, Luis Felipe, Jack Skahan, Daniel Vega.
SHOTS: 17; SHOTS ON GOAL: 8; SAVES: 5; FOULS: 5; CORNER KICKS: 11, OFFSIDES: 1.

VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC: Evan Bush; Andy Rose, Erik Godoy, Jake Nerwinski (Ryan Roposo 72), Ali Adnan, Cristian Dajome; Leonard Owusu, Russell Teibert (David Milinkovic HT), Michael Baldisimo (Patrick Metcalfe 73); Fredy Montero (Theo Bair 81), Tosaint Ricketts (Ranko Veselinovic 55).
Substitutes not used: Isaac Boehmer, Derek Cornelius, Bryan Meredith, Damiano Pecile.
SHOTS: 7; SHOTS ON GOAL: 5; SAVES: 5; FOULS: 13; CORNER KICKS: 7, OFFSIDES: 0.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On the team’s performance tonight:“I think that we are forgetting about the tournament we played in Orlando. We really saw a competitive team. The restart of this season for each team was difficult. This season is unstable, just how we are living all around the world. It is difficult to train so little and play so often. Today, we had 20 players even. Many youngsters participated. But many teams are going through good moments and bad moments. There will be difficult moments and regular moments like we’ve talked about after each game, because of the way this season is. I think standing up after the previous negative performances, there is conviction and special work that we’ve done. There is good communication and adequate interpretation. We were able to overcome that negative streak at the beginning of the season. However, we cannot deny that the season is difficult for everyone.”
On forward Andy Rios’ performance:“When the team functions as a team, we are able to achieve our style of play. Andy Rios might not have been finishing, but he is one of the players that runs the most, he’s one of the players that plays with his soul, he does work that might not be noticed, but when they score it’s a joy for the team. I don’t just focus on one player, I am convinced that when the 11 players play for one another, we play as a team. And in football you play as a team.”
On playing the Portland Timbers on Sunday:“Today we celebrate a victory. We must make space to stay calm and the players deserve to celebrate after working hard. Tomorrow, we will begin to think about a difficult rival we will be facing, and we will figure out a game plan. We must see how the players recover and seek out any potential injuries. So today we will enjoy the victory with our families, as a family, after winning the way we did tonight.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES GOALKEEPER JT MARCINKOWSKI
On what has fueled the team’s turnaround and how the team continues its momentum:“I think it’s not getting too high or too low. As we’ve seen in this league, results dictate how things go in the locker room, and so when you win it’s a good time. We just have to keep that same mentality going forward. We can’t get too high on these wins, and we can’t get too low when we lose. It’s just trying to maintain that same equal line and consistently getting better game in and game out. It’s looking at our mistakes, looking at what we did well, and trying to improve on those things.”
On how the team feels about going against the Portland Timbers:“I think the good thing is that we didn’t play them too long ago. There’s a lot of video we can watch and figure some things out. I think they did well. They took advantage of our mistakes, but I think that’s something we want to improve on. I think we’re in a much different spot than we were a few weeks ago when we played them. Now, we’ve kind of got back to who we are and play the Earthquakes style of soccer, and so we just have to keep that mentality going. So much of it is that group effort. It’s a team effort. It doesn’t matter if you’re starting or coming off the bench as you’ve seen in the past few games. Subs are scoring like tonight, Paul [Marie] with his first goal, I couldn’t be happier for him, and Gilbert [Fuentes], Siad [Haji], and Cade [Cowell] coming off the bench. I think taking that group mentality and collective effort into a tough place to play in Portland, but we just have to fight together.”
On what the absence of Florian Jungwirth means for Sunday’s game vs. Portland:“I really don’t know who’s going to play. I think we have to get guys recovered and watch some video on them. Then we can assess where we are a few days from now. Whoever does play, I think you’ve seen that whoever comes in makes a really big impact, and it’s going to be the same mentality and same feel with whatever 11 is out there.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL
On if he thought about leaving the Quakes for Europe instead of signing a new contract:“No, not really. This is where I want to be. This is a project that I want to be a part of. From Matias to the locker room, it’s a family that I’ve grown to love and really appreciate. This is where I want to be for the future, and I’m excited to keep playing for this club and seeing how far we can go in all the years to come.”
On the team’s improvement over the last three matches:“These three games definitely brought back some of the confidence we had in Orlando. It’s been a difficult year with all of the interruptions of playing and not playing and then the games so close together. We had a little bit of a tough month there, but I think these three games definitely helped us get a little bit of our confidence back; the way we played, the way we passed, the way we pressed. I definitely hope that we can keep building from this and get better and better each game.”
On the importance of getting into a playoff spot:“I think we have a really strong group. We have a really deep group. You saw a lot of younger guys come in today and get minutes, which was great. The cohesion between everyone I think has been fantastic. We’re taking it one step at a time, one game at a time, and you can tell that in these games. I think each game we’re getting better and better, and you can see improvement with the ball and without the ball. That’s our focus. It’s trying to improve game in and game out and fine tune little details. Hopefully at the end, we’re where we want to be.”

####

Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

Reno Bighorns vs. Santa Cruz Warriors, February 24, 2017

Reno Bighorn Guard ISAIAH COUSINS (10) during player introductions before the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

The Reno Bighorns welcome Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) back for the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard GARY NEAL (11) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) shoots over Santa Cruz Warrior Center CHRIS OBEKPA (21) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Guard CLEANTHONY EARLY (7) shoots a layup against Reno Bighorn Guard GARY NEAL (11) as Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) and Santa Cruz Warrior Center CHRIS OBEKPA (21) watch during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Forward LADONTAE HENTON (13) shoots a jumper during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard KENDALL MARSHALL (14) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Guard TERRENCE DRISDOM (11) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

The Lady Bighorn Dancers perform during a break of the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard REGGIE HEARN (37) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Center JAMES SOUTHERLAND (1) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard GARY NEAL (11) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Center JAMES SOUTHERLAND (1) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard PE’SHON HOWARD (5) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Forward KADEEM JACK (2) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Guard CLEANTHONY EARLY (7) and Santa Cruz Warrior Forward LADONTAE HENTON (13) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard DAVID STOCKTON (4) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Guard PHIL PRESSEY (26) drives against Reno Bighorn Guard DAVID STOCKTON (4) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Center DAMIAN JONES (5) attempts to block the shot of Reno Bighorn Guard ISAIAH COUSINS (10) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Forward WILL DAVIS II (0) shoots around Santa Cruz Warrior Center DENNIS CLIFFORD (42) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Center DENNIS CLIFFORD (42) drives around Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Friday, Feb. 24, 2017 Kyle Jones: kjones@renobighorns.com

BIGHORNS COMEBACK FROM 25 POINT DEFICIT TO DEFEAT THE WARRIORS

SACRAMENTO, Calif. —- The Reno Bighorns (13-23) defeated the Santa Cruz Warriors (19-17) 109-108 Friday night at the Golden 1 Center. The Bighorns established a new single-game franchise attendance record with a crowd of 5,106 packing Golden 1 Center in the first-ever D-League game on Sacramento’s home floor.

Gary Neal (12-20 FG) led the Bighorns with 41 points and eight rebounds while Sacramento Kings Assignment Player Georgios Papagiannis recorded his sixth double-double of the season with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Reggie Hearn notched 17 points and two rebounds. .

James Southerland paced the Warriors with 27 points and 11 rebounds while Phil Pressey had 12 points six rebounds and 10 assists.

The teams kept the score close opening the first frame before the Warriors went on a run to hold an 11-point advantage at the midway point, the Warriors would hold the advantage over the Bighorns through the entirety of the period. Despite the Bighorns outscoring the Warriors 26-20 in the second frame, Santa Cruz went into the locker room with a 17-point cushion. The Warriors led by as much as 25 in the second frame.

The Bighorns went on a 17-7 run coming out of the break to cut the deficit to seven at the 6:41 mark. Reno would gain momentum and get within five points after back-to-back triples from Hearn and Neal. The Bighorns went into the final frame trailing Santa Cruz 77-68.

With 7:01 remaining in the final frame, Reno went on a 13-6 run to tie the Warriors after a pull-up jump-shot from Neal at the 3:09 mark. The lone lead change in the game would come from a made free throw from Papagiannis at the 2:31 mark. The Warriors would tie the Bighorns one final time off a made three-pointer from Henton, but would never take back a lead. In the final second of regulation, a made three-point shot from Scott Wood brought the Warriors within one point with time expiring, resulting in a Bighorns victory. Gary Neal scored 23 of his 41 points in the final frame.

The Bighorns outscored the Warriors 72-54 in the second half and finished the night going 100% from the free-throw line.

Reno will host the Windy City Bulls on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 11 a.m. for their 2017 Education Game.

–bighorns—

About the Reno Bighorns:

The Reno Bighorns are a member of the NBA Development League, the official minor league of the NBA. The Bighorns are affiliated with the Sacramento Kings. Season tickets for the 2016-17 season are on sale now! For more information, call the Bighorns front office at 775-853-8220 or visit RenoBighorns.com. Follow us on Twitter @renobighorns and “like” the Bighorns on Facebook at facebook.com/bighornshoops. The NBA Development League is the NBA’s official minor league, preparing players, coaches, officials, trainers, and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league’s research and development laboratory. Featuring 22 teams with direct affiliations with NBA franchises for the 2016-17 season, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. An all-time high 38 percent of all NBA players at the end of the 2015-16 season boasted NBA D-League experience. In fostering the league’s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA D-League Cares programs. Fans can watch all NBA D-League games on nbadleague.com.

Reno Bighorns vs. Salt Lake City Stars, February 3, 2017

Reno Bighorn Guard CAM GRIFFIN (4) defends against Salt Lake City Stars Forward JJ O’BRIEN (22) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Reno Bighorn Guard REGGIE HEARN (37) drives past Salt Lake City Stars Guard JERMAINE TAYLOR (24) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Reno Bighorn Guard REGGIE HEARN (37) shoots a layup against Salt Lake City Stars Guard SUNDIATA GAINES (15) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

The Lady Bighorn Dancers perform during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Friday, Feb. 3, 2017 Kyle Jones: kjones@renobighorns.com

BIGHORNS FALL TO THE STARS

RENO, Nev. —- The Reno Bighorns (11-20) fell 121-104 to the Salt Lake City Stars (10-20) Friday night at the in front of a near sold out crowd at the Reno Events Center.

Sacramento Kings Assignment Player Georgios Papagiannis led the Bighorns with 22 points and five rebounds while Pe’Shon Howard notched 20 points and five rebounds. Kings affiliate player Isaiah Cousins scored 20 points, grabbed five rebounds and added five assists.

Sundiata Gaines paced the Stars logging a double-double with 27 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds while Joel Bolomboy, who is on assignment from the Utah Jazz had 20 points, 17 rebounds and three assists.

The Stars took control of the game early going on a 17-5 run to lead the Bighorns by 14 at the 7:25 mark. The Bighorns would get within six points before the Stars ran away with the lead to have a 32-18 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The Stars kept the Bighorns at bay with a double-digit lead until the Reggie Hearn sunk a triple with 6:42 left in play in the first half to cut the deficit to nine. The Stars held the advantage over the Bighorns the remainder of the frame having a 12-point cushion heading into the locker room. Papagiannis ended the first half with 14 points.

The Bighorns went on a 9-2 run coming out of the break to edge the Stars 64-63 behind a three from Howard at the 9:23 mark. The Stars responded with a late 22-4 run to ensure a 14-point advantage heading into the final frame.

Howard opened the fourth quarter with a jumper before Will Davis stepped to the line to make a free throw to cut the deficit to 11. The Bighorns were unable to overcome the Stars lead, ultimately dropping 121-104 to Salt Lake City.

The Bighorns will next travel to Erie to face the Bayhawks on Thursday, Feb. 9 at 4 P.M PST.

–bighorns—

About the Reno Bighorns: