RENO, Nev. — Reno 1868 FC looks to keep its hot streak alive as the team travels to Sacramento on Wednesday.
Reno will take on Sacramento Republic FC in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup at Papa Murphy’s Stadium in Sacramento.
Should Reno win on Wednesday, the team would play host to the MLS’ Real Salt Lake in the next round on June 14 at Greater Nevada Field.
Reno 1868 FC has notched a 4-0-2 record over the past month and is coming off a 3-3 tie against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.
Forward Dane Kelly, who leads the USL with 10 goals, said the team is feeling good ahead of Wednesday’s match.
“I am feeling good and the team is playing pretty confident right now,” Kelly said. “We’re working together and our focus is on getting a playoff spot.”
Reno’s last U.S. Open Cup match ended with a win over Seattle OSA FC on penalties (4-3) on May 17.
Sacramento topped Anahuac FC 4-0 that same day in its cup competition.
Sacramento Republic FC is coming off a 2-2 tie against Seattle Sounders FC 2.
Sacramento nearly lost that match if not for the late equalizer by Tyler Blackwood on the last play of the match.
Forward Sammy Ochoa leads Sacramento with four goals in 11 appearances this season.
Wilson Kneeshaw and Sunday’s savior Blackwood have two goals each.
Reno has the second-most goals in the USL (23) and is led by Kelly and Antoine Hoppenot, who has exploded for three goals in the past two matches.
The midfielder, who has found his rhythm next to Kelly up front as a forward and gives credit to his teammates for excellent passes in the box.
“If you look at my goals, my teammates have placed the balls perfectly,” Hoppenot said. “So, we’re passing the ball well and putting it in the right spot.”