Despite traveling across the county and facing a team that won in its last three home games, the Oakland Roots delivered a playoff-intensity performance to defeat Hartford Athletic 3-1.
“Coming away from home and getting three points is important, especially with one game left.” said Roots midfielder Charlie Dennis after the game. “We needed the three points, really. We don’t want to leave it up to others to decide our fate.”
With the victory, the Roots kept pace with seven other teams fighting for the final three spots in the USL Western Conference.
Oakland had a dream start in the fourth minute when a Dennis free kick was not cleared out cleanly by Hartford. That allowed Roots midfielder Juan Azócar to intercept the ball and fire a low bullet from outside the box past the outstretched hands of Athletic keeper Yannik Oettl.
With the early lead, the Roots effectively dealt with an Athletic attack that’s scored goals in bunches since former US Men’s National team star Tab Ramos became their head coach. Oakland’s defensive line cheated back, clogging the passing lanes and effectively limiting Hartford’s chances.
Second Half
But the game turned on its head three minutes into the second half. Hartford’s Prince Saydee tracked down a ball from a cross into the far corner and aired the ball back into the box. His teammate Tulu headed the ball past the goal line to tie the game.
With Oakland’s season on the line, Roots’ goal-scoring leader Óttar Karlsson saved the day with his 19th goal of the season.
In the 58th minute, Lindo Mfeka controlled a throw-in and passed to Karlsson at the top of the box.
The forward turned and held off Hartford defender Andre Lewis before powering a perfectly placed shot into the lower right corner.
Karlsson had another chance in the 64th minute, but he missed his shot just wide of the post.
About ten minutes later, Azocar had a chance to score but could not square his body to put his shot on target.
The home side’s best chance to tie the game was in the 78th minute. Athletic’s Danny Barrera had a strong free-kick attempt that Roots keeper Paul Blanchette punched away.
With Hartford pressing, Roots substitute striker Jonathan Rodriguez put the game to bed for Oakland in the 93rd minute. He caught Athletic keeper Oettl cheating upfield and chipped the goalie to ensure the Roots took home the three points.
The victory ensures that Oakland controls its destiny during the season’s final game.
If the Roots win next Saturday against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, they will almost certainly make the playoffs. With a draw or loss next weekend, Oakland will have to hope for several results to go their way to claim one of the remaining postseason spots.
