Sacramento: This one will hurt. This one will be remembered for a long.. long.. time. I’ll never forget those 10 to 15 minutes where the Oakland Roots were bound for the Western Conference Playoffs. Sitting in the stands in Sacramento with everyone around me watching over the shoulder of another Roots fan with a stream of the Lexington game against Phoenix Rising was pure cinema. But unfortunately this story doesn’t have a happy ending. Roots is going to Roots.
The Oakland Roots gave up two goals in the final 10 minutes on Saturday evening in Sacramento and fell 3-2 to the Sacramento Republic, resulting in the Roots missing out on the playoffs by two points. Eventually after the dust had settled the Oakland Roots had 38 points and finished in 10th place in the Western Conference, once again missing out on the postseason.
Expect changes on this roster and hopefully in a positive direction, as the Oakland Roots look bound for the training facility just outside of the Oakland Airport. Who will be remaining outside of the likely returning Ryan Martin. How many starters on this team move on or are sold to higher levels? Only time will tell.
Here are our top-10 player ratings from the 3-2 loss to the Sacramento Republic.
1. Jesus de Vicente, 8.0
Not sure who between Jesus de Vicente and David Garcia was the best free agent signing this off-season, but de Vicente has a strong case to be No. 1. Second on the team on assists with six and consistently was putting up perfect deep crosses from attackers. I expect him to be back next season and watch him grow into a top level defender and attacker in 2027.
2. Peter Wilson, 7.5
A true club legend. Hopefully Saturday wasn’t the last goal we have seen for Peter Wilson in a Roots jersey. I would keep him around, but we shall see if he fits into the brain trusts plans or if he is bound for a higher level. A stunning 15 goals this season for Peter Wilson and currently has the team record for most goals. Not bad pickup last year.
3. Mark Fisher, 7.5
Mark Fisher and Jesus de Vicente should be penciled into the starting lineup next season and in theory the Roots should be set for their backline heading into 2027. I love what Fisher has provided on the right side, with de Vicente numbers proving he is clearly a left-back. Two chances created and nine defensive contributions is a solid combo for a 25-year old heading into his true prime.
4. Danny Trejo, 7.4
Danny Trejo seems to always play well in Sacramento, as the 28-year old debuted for the Roots last season at the Republic and added a goal this past Saturday night. My guess is Danny Trejo won’t be back next season. Only three goals and only TWO headed shots for the season. The Roots just have to find someone better for the money next year. I won’t rule out a return off the bench for far reduced compensation though.
5. Tyler Gibson, 6.8
I truly believe bringing Tyler Gibson off in the 58th minute may have been the critical mistake for the Oakland Roots. Gibson knew what level of grit and grim was needed to survive on Saturday and those left on the field clearly didn’t. I would like to see Gibson resign for next season, but can he and the returning Tommy McCabe work together? Unsure.
6. Bertin Jacquesson, 6.5
I believe Bertin Jacquesson will be a starter next season. Do I think he will finish 2027 as a starter is another question. Jacquesson has been a great burst piece off the bench and Ryan Martin loves him as a player.
7. David Garcia, 6.4
Excited to see a full season of David Garcia. Top priority. Contract extension candidate.
8. Bobosi Byaruhanga, 6.4
Bobosi Byaruhanga feels like the type of player that will get picked up by Louisville or Tampa Bay and turn into a true star. It is unfortunate that it just hasn’t fully worked out from goal scoring and creating chances. A perfect defensive midfielder for any team.
9. Tommy McCabe, 6.4
The 2027 season depends on Tommy McCabe. If McCabe is what we were promised, the Roots should make the playoffs. If he has another poor season like 2026, then he will be sent packing with Ryan Martin in the middle of 2027. McCabe MUST improve and change something about his game.
10. Wolfgang Prentice, 6.4
Wolfgang Prentice left everything out on the field before being subbed off in the 86th minute with cramps. Prentice led the team with seven assists and was second in goals. Overall I really enjoy watching Prentice play, but I wouldn’t be shocked if this is the final game we have watched of Wolfgang. Not because he is heading to another USL Championship side, but I have a feeling a higher level is calling. Prentice went over the barrier and shook the hands of every Roots fan that made it to Sacramento. Pure class.