San Jose Earthquakes vs. Austin FC, October 21, 2023

MEDIA RELEASE: 
Oct. 21, 2023

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Austin FC 1
Quakes clinch Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs in front of sellout crowd

 SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes qualified for the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in three years after drawing 1-1 with Austin FC on Saturday night at PayPal Park.

The Quakes opened the scoring in the 17th minute from forward Cristian Espinoza. A crucial interception from Jeremy Ebobisse set up Espinoza to fire his shot into the bottom corner. Austin would find the equalizer in the 32nd minute to finish the first half 1-1. The Quakes would outshoot their opponent 20 to four and hold onto the point to earn a playoff berth. 

The Earthquakes will now prepare for their first playoff match against Sporting Kansas City on Wednesday, Oct. 25. Kickoff from Children’s Mercy Park is slated for 6:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass (Apple TV), as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish). 

GAME NOTES

The Earthquakes have qualified for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2020. 

The Earthquakes finish the 2023 MLS regular season with a 10-10-13 record (43 pts), sitting in ninth place in the 14-team Western Conference.

The Quakes now hold a 2-0-5 record against Austin FC, including a 1-0-2 record on the road. They have never lost to Austin FC in seven MLS matches. 

Cristian Espinoza netted the first goal of the game for his 13th goal of the season. Espinoza now has 26 goal contributions (13g, 13a), contributing to 66.7% of the Earthquakes’ total goals this season (39). This percentage of involvement ranks first in club history and ties for first in the league this season. Espinoza is now also tied with teammate Jeremy Ebobisse for fourth most goals in club history. 

Jeremy Ebobisse tallied his fourth assist of the season and 16th of his MLS career. 

MATCH INFORMATION

San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Austin FC
Saturday, October 21, 2023 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 18,000 (sellout)
Man of the Match: Cristian Espinoza

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Cristian Espinoza (Jeremy Ebobisse) 17’
ATX (1-1) – Owen Wolff (Nick Lima, Sebastian Drussi) 32’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Niko Tsakiris (caution) 22’
ATX – Jhojan Valencia (caution) 66’
SJ – Cristian Espinoza (caution) 72’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco (Paul Marie 57’), Jonathan Mensah, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Jackson Yueill (C), Niko Tsakiris (Carlos Gruezo 57’), Matthew Hoppe; Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse (Tommy Thompson 88’), Cade Cowell (Jamiro Monteiro 57’).

Substitutes not used: Emi Ochoa (GK), Ayo Akinola, Tanner Beason, Judson, Jack Skahan.

SHOTS: 20; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 4; CORNER KICKS: 15; SAVES: 0

AUSTIN FC: Brad Stuver; Leo Vaisanen, Jon Gallagher (Adam Lundkvist 69’), Julio Cascante, Nick Lima; Jhojan Valencia (Dani Pereira 78’), Alex Ring, Owen Wolff (Will Bruin 78’); Emiliano Rigoni, Sebastian Driussi (C) (Memo Rodriguez 86’), Ethan Finlay (Matt Hedges 69’).
 
Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano (GK), Brendan Craig, Hector Jimenez, Gyasi Zardes.

SHOTS: 4; SHOTS ON GOAL: 1; FOULS: 5; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 7

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On the team’s work tonight:
“We are not over-celebrating anything. We were unlucky not to score, but I’m proud of my guys to push it and show a winning mentality and winning actions. Being over the [playoff] line is a great validation to the team, the staff, and the fans’ hard work and desire to get better. I see a lot of progress. We want to take it to the next step, and we have the opportunity. This is a league where there are always upsets in playoffs and we need to answer the question now of whether we want to be one of those teams.”

On the expectations vs. Sporting Kansas City:
“There is a lot more potential in us. I believe in this group and this foundation of players, and I believe that we can be one of those teams that other teams don’t want to play against. You go in that locker room; that’s a hungry group of players. We have more ambition. This is a really united group, and I am hopeful that we will have a quick recovery for Kansas. Sporting Kansas City is a good team. They are very well coached. They have an intense environment. This is going to be a battle, but it is also one that we are not afraid of.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CRISTIAN ESPINOZA

On what clinching the playoff spot means for the fans:
“It’s amazing. It’s amazing. The fans have been supporting us the entire season, and us on being on the field, we really feel the support. That’s been so important for us, and it was an important year for me personally, too. We wanted to win the game for the fans and finish higher in the table, but what’s important is that we qualified for the playoffs.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL

On qualifying for the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs:
“We said it at the beginning of preseason that this is what we wanted to do. This is where we wanted to be. You could see a lot of fight especially during this game. I’m proud of the guys for what they did. We knew we had to be aggressive and go for it right away. We pushed the game, and it was a draw but we’re ready for playoffs and we’ll see. We’re excited for Wednesday. We regroup tomorrow, get ready to go Monday Tuesday and battle on Wednesday.”
Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Maquiñana – Director , Communications
rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.243.8523

Ryan Negrette – Coordinator, Communications
rnegrette@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.489.8891

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Nashville SC, September 23, 2023

MEDIA RELEASE: 
Sept 23, 2023

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Nashville SC 1
San Jose draws at home, prepares for Minnesota next week

 SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Nashville SC finished with a 1-1 draw at home on Saturday night at PayPal Park. Forward Matthew Hoppe has scored in two consecutive appearances to help the Quakes earn a point at home. 

San Jose nearly opened the scoring in the 36th minute when forward Cade Cowell struck the crossbar , just inches from the top corner. Both sides would trade blows but end the first half scoreless. 

Nashville opened the scoring in the second half, but the Quakes would find the equalizer in the 75th from Matthew Hoppe. A low cross from Carlos Akapo found Hoppe unguarded, with space to fire into the top corner. San Jose built on the momentum and fired four shots in less than a minute just after scoring.

The Earthquakes will now prepare to face Minnesota United FC on Saturday, Sept. 30. Kickoff from Allianz Field is slated for 5:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish). 

GAME NOTES

The Earthquakes now hold an 10-10-11 record (41 pts.) during the 2023 MLS regular season and currently sit at eighth place in the 14-team Western Conference, but only three points from fourth place.

The Quakes now hold a 0-0-3 record against Nashville SC, including a 0-0-2 record at home. 

San Jose has only lost twice in 15 MLS home matches this season (8-2-6) and are tied for fewest home losses in the Western Conference. 

Forward Matthew Hoppe scored his second goal of the season, earning two goals in two consecutive appearances. 

Defender Carlos Akapo tallied his third assist of the season and of his MLS career. 

Forward Cristian Espinoza earned his 150th MLS appearance. 

MATCH INFORMATION

San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Nashville SC
Saturday, September 23, 2023 – PayPal Park, San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 16,728
Man of the Match: Matthew Hoppe

Scoring Summary:
NSH (1-0) – Teal Bunbury (Shaq Moore) 50’
SJ (1-1) – Matthew Hoppe (Carlos Akapo) 75’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Cristian Espinoza (caution) 10’
NSH – Anibal Godoy (caution) 12’
SJ – Carlos Gruezo (caution) 54’
NSH – Walker Zimmerman (caution) 89’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco (Paul Marie 61’), Jonathan Mensah, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Jackson Yueill (C), Carlos Gruezo (Niko Tsakiris 55’), Jamiro Monteiro (Benji Kikanović 90+1’); Cade Cowell (Matthew Hoppe 61’), Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse (Ayo Akinola 90+1’)

Substitutes not used: JT Marcinkowski (GK), Judson, Tanner Beason, Tommy Thompson

SHOTS: 21; SHOTS ON GOAL: 5; FOULS: 9; CORNER KICKS: 7; SAVES: 3

NASHVILLE SC: Elliot Panicco; Daniel Lovitz, Jack Maher, Shaq Moore, Walker Zimmerman (C); Hany Mukhtar, Teal Bunbury (Sam Surridge 67’), Alex Muyl (Josh Bauer 88’), Anibal Godoy, Brian Anunga (Sean Davis 79’); Fafa Picault (Randall Leal 67’)Substitutes not used: Joe Willis (GK), Dax McCarty, Jacob Shaffelburg, Luke Haakenson, Taylor Washington

SHOTS: 10; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 9; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 4

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On tonight’s result against Nashville SC:
“We are still in a position to control our destiny, as much as possible. We’ve got to find a way to get more points on the road against Minnesota [United FC]. I know their home form is different than their away but they area a very good team and they have very good players. We have to be ready to show our best. We’ve put ourselves in a position to do this, and now home or away it is up to us to get it done, with no regrets. We’ve got to rest now and build momentum in the week to do better.”

On forward Matthew Hoppe’s performance tonight:
“He’s got versatility, he can play wide, he can play inside. He can play in the last line. He’s got combinations. He drives at the back line. Gets in the box. Almost scores another rebound tonight. He has a lot of anticipation and double movements in his game. I think that’s great and will continue to help us.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL

On the team’s performance throughout the game:
“First I think that Nashville is a really good team. They had a lot of possession, and it was hard for us to give pressure in the first half but in our block and our shape we didn’t give up a lot of chances. I think the first half was really disciplined by us. It was good to go in 0-0. We weren’t playing our best but I think the second half we turned it around. The guys that came in gave us a bit of a spark. We were able to go forward a little more, connect better passes, and get better combinations in and around the box. I think we can build on that to keep going in the game and have a little bit more urgency. We wanted to start that way the whole game but it’s something to build on to go to Minnesota with.”

On finishing the rest of the regular season strong:
“With the few games that we have left we know that we have to maximize the points. We have two road games coming up and we have to find a way to win and we want to take the offensive good points and keep highlighting those and keep utilizing that. The subs that came in did a really good job and we’re going to need them again. We need the whole team, the whole roster to come and give us energy and we’ll build on that and keep forming relationships with some of the guys who came in the summertime and keep using their strengths and go to Minnesota and get those three points.”
Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Negrette – Coordinator, Communications
rnegrette@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.489.8891

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United, September 2, 2023

MEDIA RELEASE: 
Sept 2, 2023     

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Minnesota United FC 1
San Jose draw at home, prepare for D.C. United next week

 SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United FC played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday night at PayPal Park. Forward Cade Cowell netted his first of the season to tie the match after Minnesota scored the opening goal.

The Quakes conceded an early goal but rallied with a 17th minute equalizer from Cowell. Jackson Yueill collected the ball at the top of the box after a corner kick to find Cowell on the left, whose shot deflected into the bottom corner of the net . The goal was his first of the season and 10th of his MLS career. Cowell is now the 11th teenager in MLS history to reach 10 regular season goals. 

Both sides traded blows in the second half but neither team could find the winning goal. The Earthquakes nearly converted a diving header from Jamiro Monteiro in the 56th minute and Minnesota had a goal called back after video review for a handball four minutes later. 

The Earthquakes will now prepare to travel to face D.C. United on Saturday, Sept. 9. Kickoff from Audi Field is slated for 4:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTESThe Earthquakes now hold an 9-9-9 record (36 pts.) during the 2023 MLS regular season and currently sit in eighth place in the 14-team Western Conference, but only four points from third place.

The Quakes hold a 5-4-3 record against Minnesota United FC, including a 3-2-2 record at home.

Midfielder Jackson Yueill tallied his fourth assist of the season and 16th of his MLS career.

Jackson Yueill made his 171st appearance for the Quakes, tied for fifth most appearances in club history with Joe Cannon. 

MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Minnesota United FC
Saturday, September 2, 2023 – PayPal Park, San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 16,151
Man of the Match: Cade Cowell

Scoring Summary:
MIN (1-0) – Teemu Pukki (Emanuel Reynoso) 4’
SJ (1-1) – Cade Cowell (Jackson Yueill) 16’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Carlos Gruezo (caution) 31’
MIN – Emanuel Reynoso (caution) 40’
MIN – Michael Boxall (caution) 85’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco, Tanner Beason, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (C) (Michael Baldisimo 90+3’), Jamiro Monteiro (Niko Tsakiris 81’); Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse, Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanović 90+3’)

Substitutes not used: JT Marcinkowski (GK), Ayo Akinola, Matthew Hoppe, Jonathan Mensah, Tommy Thompson

SHOTS: 18; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 5; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 6

MINNESOTA UNITED FC: Dayne St. Clair; Miguel Tapias, Michael Boxall, Zarek Valentin; Joseph Rosales, Jan Gregus, Hassani Dotson, Emanuel Reynoso, Wil Trapp (C); Teemu Pukki (Mender Garcia 81’), Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (Ethan Bristow 64’)
 
Substitutes not used: Eric Dick (GK), Bakaye Dibassy, Franco Fragapane, Mender Garcia, Emmanuel Iwe, Sang Bin Jeong, Brent Kallman, Devin Padelford

SHOTS: 14; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 5

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On tonight’s performance against Minnesota United FC:
“I thought we had much better positions while attacking in the second half, to neutralize [Emanuel] Reynoso, compared to the first half. The first goal came from poor positions while attacking, where we were on the wrong side of [Reynoso] and he was able to thread a pass into [Teemu] Pukki. I thought we had better positions while attacking in the second half.”

On Cade Cowell’s performance tonight and callup to the U.S. National Team:
“Cade is a player that can vertically hurt anybody. We’ll miss his verticality, and we’ll miss speed. I am really happy for him to get his goal tonight, really proud of him. He’s wanted it really bad. Anything can happen when you are shooting on frame, and a goal is a goal.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES CAPTAIN JACKSON YUEILL

On tonight’s performance and goals:
“I think we came out with the right urgency. I think that built up throughout the game. Our message at halftime was to be a little bit more aggressive, get more runs in behind, get more balls in behind and open up the field a little more. I think we did a good job of recovering more balls in their half and in the midfield and transitioning quick. I think we were unlucky to not get a goal but that we’re moving in the right direction still. Just looking to be more clinical in and around the box.”

On the end of season playoff push:
“We’ve started the season well and have been playing well the whole year. We’re going to keep doing what we’ve been doing and keep trying the things that we’ve been trying. We dominate, we create chances, we create opportunities and it’s about finishing those chances. Our conversations and mentality in the locker room is not if we make playoffs, it’s when. We go into each game ready to fight and ready to win. These last seven games will be our test but we have full faith in the group that we are going to accomplish our goals.”
Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Negrette – Coordinator, Communications
rnegrette@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.489.8891

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Vancouver Whitecaps, September 4, 2022

MEDIA RELEASE:                                     
Sept. 4, 2022

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, Vancouver Whitecaps FC 0

Quakes earn second straight victory at PayPal Park; Rodrigues makes MLS debut in shutout

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2-0 on Sunday evening at PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif. Center back Rodrigues made his MLS debut and led the Quakes to their first shutout victory since May 5.

San Jose jumped out to a very early lead, scoring in the fourth minute. Cade Cowell dribbled past two defenders before playing a lateral pass towards the center of the penalty area. An onrushing Jackson Yueill redirected the ball towards Jeremy Ebobisse, who curled his first-timed shot into the back of the net.

The Quakes were able to double their advantage before halftime. Jamiro Monteiro played a long switch to Cristian Espinoza on the right wing before darting to the top of the penalty area. He received a return pass from Espinoza and hit a low left-footed shot just out of reach of goalkeeper Thomas Hasal.

Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski made six saves to keep Vancouver off the scoresheet and earn his third shutout of the season.

The Earthquakes will now prepare for two back-to-back road matches, first traveling to Ohio for the Quakes’ first-ever road match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, Sept. 10. The match will kick off from TQL Stadium at 4:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast live on NBC Sports Bay Area, KNBR 1050 (English), and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes currently hold a 7-12-9 record (30 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.San Jose is now 9-10-12 all-time vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC, including an 6-1-8 record at home.The Earthquakes are now 7-8-6 in MLS play under interim head coach Alex Covelo.Forward Jeremy Ebobisse scored his 15th goal of the season and 42nd of his MLS career. It also marked his first game-winning goal of the season and sixth of his MLS career.
 
Midfielder Jamiro Monteiro scored his fourth goal of the season and 13th of his MLS career. He has now tied his single-season career high in goals (2019).
 
Forward Cade Cowell tallied an assist on Ebobisse’s goal, marking his fifth assist of the season and 12th of his MLS career. It also marked his first game-winning assist of the season and second of his MLS career.
 
Midfielder Jackson Yueill tallied an assist on Ebobisse’s goal, marking his second assist of the season and 12th of his MLS career. It also marked his first game-winning assist of the season and fourth of his MLS career.
 
Midfielder Cristian Espinoza tallied an assist on Monteiro’s goal, marking his 12th assist of the season and 42nd of his MLS career. He is now two assists away from tying Eddie Lewis for the most assists in a single season in club history. Espinoza is also now two assists away from tying Richard Mulrooney for the second most assists in club history.
 
Defender Rodrigues made his MLS debut, starting and playing 90 minutes.
 
Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski made six saves and recorded his third shutout of the season and 13th of his MLS career. Tonight marked San Jose’s first shutout since June 11 (0-0 at NSH), and first at PayPal Park since May 7 (1-0 vs. COL). It also marked San Jose’s first multi-goal shutout victory since Oct. 20, 2021 (4-0 vs. ATX).The Earthquakes are now unbeaten in five straight home matches against Whitecaps FC (3-0-2).

MATCH INFORMATION

2022 MLS Regular Season

San Jose Earthquakes 2 – 0 Vancouver Whitecaps FC

Sunday, Sept. 4, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.

Attendance: 13,211

Man of the Match: JT Marcinkowski

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Jeremy Ebobisse (Jackson Yueill, Cade Cowell) 4’
SJ (2-0) – Jamiro Monteiro (Cristian Espinoza) 34’

Misconduct Summary:
VAN – Andres Cubas (caution) 31’
VAN – Ryan Gauld (caution) 43’
VAN – Tristan Blackmon (caution) 62’
SJ – Benji Kikanović (caution) 90+1’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Tanner Beason, Nathan, Rodrigues, Tommy Thompson (Paul Marie 81); Eric Remedi (Jan Gregus 70), Jackson Yueill ©, Jamiro Monteiro; Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanović 70), Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano (GK), Oskar Ågren, Judson, Shea Salinas, Jack Skahan, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 9; SHOTS ON GOAL: 5; FOULS: 9; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 6

VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC: Thomas Hasal; Ranko Veselinovic, Tristan Blackmon, Javain Brown (Marcus Godinho 66); Alessando Schöpf (Sebastian Berhalter 78), Julian Gressel, Andres Cubas, Ryan Gauld, Russell Teibert © (Leonard Owusu 78); Cristian Dajome (Pedro Vite 53), Brian White (Toisant Ricketts 78).
Substitutes not used: Cody Cropper (GK), Florian Jungwirth, Jake Nerwinski, Ryan Raposo, 

SHOTS: 15; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 11; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 3

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH ALEX COVELO

On defender Rodrigues making his MLS debut:
“He is a physical and powerful player that could also help us out with aerial balls. With the ball, he was very comfortable today. He had a very good game defensively and offensively. Obviously physically he is not in the best of conditions but will improve step by step.”
 
On the team’s performance tonight:
“I’ve said it before, these guys are pretty good at understanding the game plan. Sometimes we win and sometimes not, but they are good. We knew that Vancouver was going to present this 3-4-3 with those wingbacks divided a little bit more and leave the three center backs a little bit behind. We knew that as soon as we could rotate the ball and create some pressure, we had to go for the one vs. one, whether with Cristian [Espinoza], Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse], Cade [Cowell], or Jamiro [Monteiro] charging and find the ball to the wings. They read it very well and I think I was sitting on the bench for the majority of the first half.” 

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL

On the Quakes’ first goal:
“We talked in training during the week about Cade’s [Cowell] speed and his ability to break out and get past and when we did that, we needed runners in the box. Once I saw him going, I saw Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse] drift to the back a little bit and I decided to attack that space. The ball was a little bit behind me and I knew Jebo was in that area, and I didn’t know exactly where. I tried flicking it if he was a little bit in front of me, and luckily it went right to him and he had a phenomenal finish, so all the credit goes to him because it’s a tough goal, and to Cade as well because of his speed and the correct path he chose to do. Great team goal and credit to Jebo.”
 
On Rodrigues’ debut and performance tonight:
“It’s never easy for someone to come to a place, not speak the language, only have a week of training and step onto the field, but I thought he performed really well. He’s got a great partner there with Nathan and was able to communicate and help him throughout the week, get him acclimated to the team and the guys quickly and [Rodrigues] has done a great job. I think you can tell his defensive abilities are really, really good. He made really, really good tackles and his timing is really good. The more he’s with us, the more he’ll get used to the guys. His confidence will grow. I thought he was really good tonight and we’re happy to have him here in San Jose.”####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Jake Pisani – Director, Communications
jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.483.0701

Pedro Ortiz – Manager, Communications
portiz@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.457.3512

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Los Angeles FC (LAFC), August 20, 2022

MEDIA RELEASE:                                             
Aug. 20, 2022   

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, LAFC 1
Quakes now 5-2-0 in last seven matches vs. LAFC; Eighteen-year-old Cade Cowell scores game-winner in front of sellout crowd

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated first-place LAFC 2-1 in front of a sellout crowd on Saturday night at PayPal Park. LAFC entered the match on a seven-game winning streak and hadn’t lost since July 2.San Jose broke the deadlock in the 14th minute. Cristian Espinoza played a through ball to Tommy Thompson, who dribbled to the end line before playing a cut-back to forward Benji Kikanović for the first-timed finish (highlight).The Quakes held onto the lead into halftime before LAFC equalized in the 54th minute through Kwadwo Opoku.The Earthquakes then regained the lead on a thunderous strike by 18-year-old Cade Cowell in the 77th minute. Espinoza and Thompson combined again down the right flank with Thompson sending in a cross to the back post. Cowell volleyed the ball past goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau and into the roof of the net (highlight).The Earthquakes will now travel to face Sporting Kansas City on Saturday, Aug. 27. The match will kick off from Children’s Mercy Park at 5:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast live on NBC Sports Bay Area, KNBR 1050 (English), and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTESThe Earthquakes currently hold a 6-11-9 record (27 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.San Jose is now 5-7-0 all-time vs. Los Angeles Football Club, including a 4-2-0 record at home. San Jose is now 5-2-0 in their last seven meetings with LAFC, including three straight home wins.The Earthquakes are now 6-7-6 in MLS play under interim head coach Alex Covelo.Benji Kikanović scored his fifth goal of the season and the ninth of his MLS career.Cade Cowell scored his second goal of the season and eighth of his MLS career.Tommy Thompson tallied his first and second assists of the season and 10th and 11th assists of his MLS career. It marked his second career multi-assist match (10/7/20 vs. VAN).Cristian Espinoza tallied his 10th and 11th assists of the season and 40th and 41st assists of his MLS career. He has passed Chris Wondolowski on the club’s all-time assists leaderboard and now ranks fourth in club history, just three behind third-place Richard Mulrooney.

MATCH INFORMATION
2022 MLS Regular Season
San Jose Earthquakes 2 – 1 Los Angeles Football Club
Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 18,000 (sellout)
Man of the Match: Tommy Thompson

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Benji Kikanović (Tommy Thompson, Cristian Espinoza) 14’
LAFC (1-1) – Kwadwo Opoku (Kellyn Acosta) 54’
SJ (2-1) – Cade Cowell (Tommy Thompson, Cristian Espinoza) 77’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Tommy Thompson (caution) 30’
SJ – Nathan (caution) 31’
LAFC – Sebastien Ibeagha (caution) 42’
SJ – Benji Kikanović (caution) 60’
LAFC – Kellyn Acosta (caution) 67’
LAFC – Ilie Sanchez (caution) 67’
SJ – Eric Remedi (caution) 74’
LAFC – Ilie Sanchez (ejection) 79’
LAFC – Jose Cifuentes (caution) 86’
LAFC – Cristian Arango (caution) 90+6’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Paul Marie, Tanner Beason, Nathan, Tommy Thompson; Jackson Yueill ©, Jan Gregus (Eric Remedi 69), Jamiro Monteiro; Benji Kikanović (Cade Cowell 69), Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: Oskar Ågren, Matt Bersano (GK), Ousseni Bouda, Judson, Shea Salinas, Jack Skahan, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 10; SHOTS ON GOAL: 5; FOULS: 14; CORNER KICKS: 11; SAVES: 1

LOS ANGELES FOOTBALL CLUB: Maxime Crepeau; Diego Palacios, Sebastien Ibeagha, Jesus Murillo, Franco Escobar (Eddie Segura 87); Kellyn Acosta ©, Sebastian Mendez (Jose Cifuentes 64), Latif Blessing (Ilie Sanchez 64); Kwadwo Opoku (Gareth Bale 76), Cristian Arango, Ryan Hollingshead (Carlos Vela 64).Substitutes not used: John McCarthy (GK), Brian Rodriguez, Daniel Trejo.

SHOTS: 12; SHOTS ON GOAL: 1; FOULS: 14; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 3

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH ALEX COVELO
 
On tonight’s perseverance to get a signature win at home:
“Emotions are high right now. We need to be calm, but I believe tonight is one of the best games I have seen from this team this season. When you lose, you ‘stink’ and when you win, everybody wants to talk good things about you. The guys showed that we have personality and played good with and without the ball. And we did it.” 
 
On where the motivation came from for tonight’s match even with the new coach announcement earlier this week:
“From the beginning when I took the team, I said I am here with San Jose and for San Jose. I was going to do whatever it takes to help the team. The players took the notice, took the news, they are professionals and know what they have to do. We are in this together. As I said in the past, the team trains fantastic every day, every week, following the game plan, and giving their best. We did it naturally and understanding there were nine games left and now eight. Before tonight, we were behind 9-10 points, and we have to still fight. We have to keep fighting and take this naturally.” 
  
On the atmosphere in the stadium and what it meant to the team tonight:
“Tonight, we played with 12 players. Anything can happen when the stadium is like that. It was incredible. It was amazing that the fans pushed the team and accompanied us. It helped us a lot.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER TOMMY THOMPSON
 
On tonight’s performance:
“It felt great. The atmosphere was electric. I give a lot of credit to the fans that came out to support us. There is no doubt. We’ve had some difficult moments this year, but it’s moments like that that shows the strength of this team mentally, physically, and the ability that we have to compete with some of the best teams and the best players in this league. For me personally, it felt great to put in a good shift with the team, but I give a lot of credit to all the guys out there that fought until the end right in the middle of the difficult moment that we’re in. I think it’s exciting and it’s a night that I won’t forget anytime soon.”
 
On the team’s mentality for tonight after the hiring of Luchi Gonzalez as the next Quakes head coach:
“I think we’re all excited about the hire [Luchi Gonzalez]. It was a great hire, but at the end of the day, our focus is the here and now. I give a ton of credit to the guys that came in: Lucho [Luciano Fusco], [Alex] Covelo, Wondo [Chris Wondolowski], Steve Ralston, Tubo [Fernandez]. All those guys came in at a really difficult moment. I think it was seven games into the season and they provided us with the positive energy that we needed. If you look at our record over that time period, it shows that we’ve been competitive consistently over the past couple of months. I think that’s a really positive piece of this season and I give those guys a ton of credit. It was a difficult moment and we’ve fought through those difficult moments. So, the hire is exciting, it’s exciting for the fans and the players. I think Luchi coming in is a step in the right direction and we’ll all be ready once he arrives in San Jose, but right now, we’re focused on giving the fans performances like we did tonight and I just wanted to give credit to the coaches here that have done something special over the course of the last 15 games or whatever it may be because I’m grateful for that. Whether I was playing or not playing, I’m grateful for that positive energy that has just provided us with that stimulus that we needed this year.”###
Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Jake Pisani – Director, Communications
jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.483.0701

Pedro Ortiz – Manager, Communications
portiz@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.457.3512

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Houston Dynamo, July 17, 2022

MEDIA RELEASE:                                           
July 17, 2022
 MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Houston Dynamo FC 2

Quakes’ home unbeaten streak snapped at eight

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Houston Dynamo FC 2-1 on Sunday evening at PayPal Park. The loss, which was San Jose’s first at home since the season opener on Feb. 26, snaps the club’s eight-match unbeaten streak at PayPal Park.Following a scoreless first half, the Earthquakes broke through in the 53rd minute courtesy of team captain Jackson Yueill. Cristian Espinoza played a free kick into the box, which was headed goalward by Tommy Thompson. The slow, looping ball bounced off the crossbar before falling to Yueill for the first-timed finish.Houston then scored the equalizer in the 71st minute.San Jose appeared to re-gain the lead when Jeremy Ebobisse’s right-footed shot from close range beat goalkeeper Steve Clark, but a last-ditch goal-line clearance kept the score tied. Houston then took the lead moments later through Thor Ulfarsson.Despite several opportunities to find an equalizer late in the match, the Quakes couldn’t find a second goal.The Earthquakes will now prepare to host Spain’s RC Celta de Vigo in an international friendly on Wednesday, July 20. The match will kick off from PayPal Park at 7:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on ESPN+.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes currently hold a 5-8-7 record (22 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.
 
San Jose is now 9-16-4 all-time vs. Houston Dynamo FC, including a 7-5-3 record at home.Tonight’s result sees the Quakes snap their unbeaten streak at three and their home unbeaten streak at eight.The Earthquakes are now 5-4-4 in MLS play under interim head coach Alex Covelo.Midfielder Jackson Yueill scored his fourth goal of the season and 11th goal of his MLS career.

MATCH INFORMATION

2022 MLS Regular Season
San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 2 Houston Dynamo FC
Sunday, July 17, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 13,445

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Jackson Yueill (unassisted) 53’
HOU (1-1) – Sebastian Ferreira (Fafa Picault) 71’
HOU (2-1) – Thor Ulfarsson (Darwin Quintero) 76’

Misconduct Summary:
HOU – Tim Parker (caution) 28’
HOU – Matias Vera (caution) 43’
SJ – Jamiro Monteiro (caution) 45’
HOU – Fafa Picault (caution) 90’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Paul Marie, Tanner Beason, Nathan, Tommy Thompson; Eric Remedi (Jack Skahan 83), Jamiro Monteiro, Jackson Yueill ©; Benji Kikanović (Cade Cowell 71), Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano (GK), Oskar Ågren, Ousseni Bouda, Jan Gregus, Will Richmond, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 16; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 6; CORNER KICKS: 8; SAVES: 2

HOUSTON DYNAMO FC: Steve Clark; Adam Lundkvist, Tim Parker, Teenage Hadebe, Griffin Dorsey; Hector Herrera ©, Adalberto Carrasquilla (Ethan Bartlow 90+2), Matias Vera (Sebastian Ferreira 69); Fafa Picault (Darwin Ceren 90+1), Darwin Quintero (Memo Rodriguez 80), Thor Ulfarsson (Tyler Pasher 80).Substitutes not used: Michael Nelson (GK), Sam Junqua, Zarek Valentin, Zeca.

SHOTS: 13; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 7; SAVES: 4

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH ALEX COVELO
 
On the mistakes committed tonight:
“I think the mistake [on the first goal] was an individual mistake, and on the second goal we had to keep the ball out when there wasn’t a clear moment to build up, and that’s it. I don’t think it was because we were building up in the back that Houston had those opportunities. I think we committed individual mistakes and that’s why it’s a very simple analysis today.”
 
On why he didn’t make more substitutions:
“When you look at the team that we finished with, we had Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse], who has 11 goals. You have Jamiro [Monteiro], an amazing quality player. We tried to be more offensive by bringing Jackson [Yueill] back as a ‘six’ and putting in Jack Skahan in his place, and with Cade [Cowell] and Cristian [Espinoza] trying to find crosses or individual actions on top. Shea Salinas has a Covid situation. We missed Marcos Lopez [due to yellow card accumulation]. Judson is injured because he has an old injury bothering him. So that’s all we have.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JAMIRO MONTEIRO

On what Houston did to shut San Jose’s midfield down:
“I didn’t feel like they were making it hard for me. They were really compact, so we didn’t have a lot of space in the midfield, but it wasn’t like they were hard on me. We didn’t have enough space in this game and a lot of our balls were coming from the side instead of the midfield.”

On how he will move past this result:
“I just forget this game. It already happened. We lost. Now we’re onto next week. We still have 14 games. Tomorrow is a new day. We have a new week, new chances. Every week is a new chance for us.”####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Jake Pisani – Director, Communications
jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.483.0701

Pedro Ortiz – Manager, Communications
portiz@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.457.3512

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Columbus Crew, March 5, 2022

MEDIA RELEASE:
March 5, 2022

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 3, Columbus Crew 3
Quakes play a man down for 57+ minutes; Calvo scores two, including stoppage-time equalizer
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes earned a dramatic 3-3 draw against the Columbus Crew on Saturday afternoon at PayPal Park.
After taking an early 1-0 lead on a Cristian Espinoza penalty kick, San Jose dropped to 10 men when Jamiro Monteiro was shown a straight red card in the 33rd minute. Columbus took advantage by scoring three unanswered goals, including two by Lucas Zelarayan, to take a 3-1 lead into the final 15 minutes of the match.
Francisco Calvo got the Quakes within striking distance by heading home a Jan Gregus free kick in the 84th minute. The two newcomers to the club connected again six minutes into stoppage time, with Calvo heading in the equalizer off a Gregus corner kick.
The Earthquakes will now hit the road for their first away match of the season against the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, March 12. Kickoff from Subaru Park is set for 4:30 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast on NBC Sports Bay Area Plus, KNBR 1050, and 1370 KZSF.

MEDIA ASSETS
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PHOTOS OF THE MATCH
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD POSTGAME SOUNDBITES

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes currently hold a 0-1-1 record (1 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.
The Quakes now hold a 15-20-9 all-time record against the Columbus Crew, including a 12-6-6 record at home.
San Jose remains undefeated at PayPal Park when hosting Columbus (2-0-2).
The Quakes scored two goals while down a man for the first time since June 29, 2013 vs. LA.
Midfielder Cristian Espinoza scored his first goal of the season and ninth of his MLS career.
Defender Francisco Calvo scored two goals, his first two goals of the season and 11th and 12th of his MLS career.
Midfielder Jan Gregus tallied two assists, his first two assists of the season and 20th and 21st assists of his MLS career.

MATCH INFORMATION
MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 3 – 3 Columbus Crew March 5, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 12,888Man of the Match: Francisco Calvo

Scoring Summary:SJ (1-0) – Cristian Espinoza (penalty) 9’CLB (1-1) – Lucas Zelarayan (Steven Moreira) 40’CLB (2-1) – Gyasi Zardes (Derrick Etienne Jr.) 68’CLB (3-1) – Lucas Zelarayan (direct free kick) 73’SJ (3-2) – Francisco Calvo (Jan Gregus) 84’SJ (3-3) – Francisco Calvo (Jan Gregus) 90+6′
Misconduct Summary:SJ – Eric Remedi (caution) 16’SJ – Jamiro Monteiro (ejection) 33’CLB – Pedro Santos (caution) 45+6’SJ – Judson (caution) 75’SJ – Benji Kikanović (caution) 79’CLB – James Igbekeme (caution) 83’CLB – Lucas Zelarayan (caution) 90’CLB – Jalil Anibaba (caution) 90+5′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Francisco Calvo, Jackson Yueill, Paul Marie (Tommy Thompson 79); Marcos Lopez, Jan Gregus, Eric Remedi (Judson 46), Cristian Espinoza, Chofis (Cade Cowell 46), Jamiro Monteiro; Jeremy Ebobisse (Benji Kikanović 72). Substitutes not used: Tanner Beason, Matt Bersano, Ousseni Bouda, Siad Haji, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 7; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 15; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 4

COLUMBUS CREW: Eloy Room; Jonathan Mensah, Milos Degenek, Pedro Santos, Steven Moreira, Darlington Nagbe, Artur (James Igbekeme 65), Lucas Zelarayan (Jalil Anibaba 90+1), Yaw Yeboah (Aidan Morris 89), Derrick Etienne Jr., Miguel Berry (Gyasi Zardes 65).
Substitutes not used: Evan Bush, Marlon Hairston, Erik Hurtado, Alexandru Matan, Will Sands.

SHOTS: 19; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 16; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 1

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On set pieces and how they thrive on them:“Our new arrivals have good service and are dangerous in the air. Fortunately, today they were able to execute both plays. We still have to keep working on our finishing. Today’s match was really difficult because [Columbus] scored four goals in its previous game. When we were 11v11, we were dominating the game. We played a man down against them for about 70 minutes. The moment we went down 3-1, we decided to go man to man and take more risks. We got our reward for the effort. With 10 players, we had two or three chances based off our build-up play. So, I’m really happy for the players and fans who came out today, and for us as well because we dedicate a lot of time studying the opponent and the club as well.”
On adjusting tactics mid-game and how he’ll approach Philadelphia:“I understood that the game today should’ve been played with that. Especially due to the strategy of Columbus, this is a system that we already have that’s pretty well oiled for us. We’re not going to get caught up with one system. We’re looking for variations in order to get more results than last year. Today, we thought that the game should be played with that formation. We’ll see what we decide for the upcoming match.”
On substitutions at halftime:“I think the players interpreted what we they had to do well. The game required that we make changes. We had to play in a different way that we spoke about at halftime. I was obligated to take [Eric] Remedi off because the ref was likely to send him off. I was liking how he was playing. But once I noticed that every time he would challenge for the ball, there would be a foul and I saw the red card coming quickly. Being a man down, we added different characteristics out wide. Without so much passing quality and dribbles that we have in Chofis, we decided to play with more aggression and speed for the counterattack. The players did well. I always say the same thing with Cade, he’s a young guy that some day, after having many more games played, when he has that chance that he had today, he’s going to shoot instead of cutting inside. But that’s the time that every player needs to become a better player.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER FRANCISCO CALVO
On scoring his goals:“This is just not about Francisco Calvo. This is about the San Jose Earthquakes, about this team. I’m happy for the two goals for sure and to help the team tie the game, but I need to talk about the effort of the team. Being down 3-1 and tying the game is amazing and hopefully we can go from here.”
On the team’s mentality playing with 10 men:“It was tough because we were almost 70 minutes with a man down. And it’s tough, in high level it’s tough to play with 10 [men]. About the goals, I just believed in my teammates, I know they cross really well. If it wasn’t me, I was pretty sure it was another guy who was going to score. Thank God he gave me these two goals and I could help the team. It’s a good point. When we play at home, we always want to win here, but we tied against a really good team. Remember that they just scored four goals in their last game. I don’t think they overplayed us either. They had two golazos from [Lucas] Zelarayan, and sometimes you can’t do anything against that.”
On the team’s resilience today:“Yeah, that’s the right word: resilience. That’s a really good word. And everything starts with [Matias Almeyda] and his coaching staff. I think the spirit that he transmits, the will, the anger, the idea of never giving up, it all starts with him. We then transmit that one by one and in the end, we move onward with that as a team. I’m very happy for scoring my goals, grateful to God, but this is a job done by the entire team. It’s San Jose who earned the score and it’s a point that we didn’t want to let go, but we celebrate it due to the circumstances. We played around 70 minutes with a man down and it’s very difficult playing like that at the highest level.”

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

San Jose Earthquakes vs. New York Red Bulls, February 26, 2022

MEDIA RELEASE:
Feb. 26, 2022

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, New York Red Bulls 3
Chofis scores first goal of the season; Three players make Earthquakes debuts
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell the New York Red Bulls 3-1 in their 2022 season opener at PayPal Park on Saturday afternoon.
Chofis scored the lone goal for San Jose, while Cristian Espinoza tallied an assist. Midfielders Jamiro Monteiro and Jan Gregus and defender Francisco Calvo all made their Earthquakes debut.
The Earthquakes will remain in San Jose to host the Columbus Crew on Saturday, March 5, presented by Fastmetrics. Kickoff from PayPal Park is set for 2:30 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast on NBC Sports California, KNBR 1050 and KZSF 1370.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes currently hold a 0-1-0 record (0 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.
The Quakes now hold a 17-15-9 all-time record against the New York Red Bulls.
Midfielder Chofis scored his first goal of the season and 13th of his MLS career.
Midfielder Cristian Espinoza tallied his first assist of the season and 31st of his MLS career.
Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski and forward Jeremy Ebobisse made their 50th and 100th MLS appearance, respectively.

MATCH INFORMATION
MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 1 – 3 New York Red Bulls Feb. 26, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 16,146

Scoring Summary:RBNY (1-0) – Patryk Klimala (Lewis Morgan, Omir Fernandez) 45+1’SJ (1-1) – Chofis (Cristian Espinoza) 69’RBNY (2-1) – Omir Fernandez (Frankie Amaya) 72’RBNY (3-1) – Tom Barlow (Caden Clark) 90+2′
Misconduct Summary:RBNY – Cristian Cásseres Jr. (caution) 56’RBNY – Dru Yearwood (caution) 65’RBNY – John Tolkin (caution) 89′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Nathan (Tanner Beason 22), Francisco Calvo; Jackson Yueill, Jan Gregus, Eric Remedi (Tommy Thompson 65), Jamiro Monteiro, Chofis, Cristian Espinoza (Siad Haji 86), Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanovic 65); Jeremy Ebobisse.
Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano, Paul Marie, Judson, Marcos Lopez, Jack Skahan.

SHOTS: 12; SHOTS ON GOAL: 2; FOULS: 6; CORNER KICKS: 4; SAVES: 4

NEW YORK RED BULLS: Carlos Coronel; Dylan Nealis, Sean Nealis, Aaron Long, John Tolkin; Frankie Amaya, Lewis Morgan, Dru Yearwood (Daniel Edelman 74), Omir Fernandez (Serge Ngoma 77), Cristian Casseres Jr. (Caden Clark 57); Patryk Klimala (Tom Barlow 77).
Substitutes not used: Anthony Marcucci, Lucan Monzón, Ryan Meara, Zach Ryan

SHOTS: 18; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 22; CORNER KICKS: 6; SAVES: 1

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On the goals surrendered against Red Bulls:“If you watch the three goals, which I just watched, there was no  build-up play from the opponent. There wasn’t game control from the opponent to create the goal-scoring chance. What I saw on the opponent is that they pressed us when our players had their back turned. We know that we shouldn’t play through the middle because one of the strong points is Red Bulls’ pressure  because we know that with our turnovers, they can break away quickly and they will catch us open – and that’s how two of those goals were scored. Two turnovers, two counters, but it was their virtue where they put away the chances that they had. But I didn’t see that they were able to hurt us through  their build-up play, but rather our own mistakes.”

On how long it will take for the three new players to adapt to the rest of the squad:“Surely that’s going to take some time. There are some people who pick up new systems faster than others. Also get to know their new teammates, some do that faster than others. I think the three new guys looked good today. Surely as time goes on, the better they will look just as well as the rest of the team.”


SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JAMIRO MONTEIRO
On his Earthquakes debut:“I had already felt comfortable, the guys welcomed me very well. I am happy that I played my first game for San Jose. Disappointed that we didn’t get the three points, but we have a long season. We learned a lot in this game, but we will move on and make it better.”
On his takeaways from the first match of the season:“The connections were really good between me and Chofis, Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse], Cade [Cowell], and [Cristian] Espinoza. Everybody likes to come to the ball, pass in the back. We have a good connection. We train really hard on that. This is our first game, it’s a long season, and we will do better for sure. The idea that the coach has is a very good idea, but it will come for sure. We will do better.”

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