RENO, Nev. — On Oct. 20, Reno 1868 FC faced perhaps its toughest match of its two-year history. 

A week after taking down regular season Western Conference champion Orange County SC, the club was facing a first-round battle with fourth-seeded Real Monarchs SLC on the road. 

Both teams split the regular season series 1-1 in 2018 with wins coming at their respective fields. Reno was not only looking for its first playoff win on Oct. 20, it was also looking for its first ever win in Utah. 

Goalkeeper Matt Bersano, on loan from the San Jose Earthquakes, did his absolute best to make sure that happened. Bersano was a human wall against the Monarchs recording save after acrobatic save. 

Bersano's six saves produced a highlight reel on its own. More importantly, his saves kept a dangerous Monarchs attack at bay and opened up the ultimate opportunity for the match-winner in the waning moments of regulation. 

Defender Duke Lacroix made one of his signature runs along the far sideline creating yet another chance for Reno as the clock approached the fourth minute of stoppage time. Lacroix dished a cross in for leading-scorer Brian Brown who connected on a header and gave Reno the dramatic 1-0 win. 

The goal, a first. The win, a first. It was a day to remember for Reno fans everywhere. 

HIGHLIGHTS