Rockford FC finished the 2024 season in third place in the Midwest Premier League, Heartland Division II. The team faced a challenging start, losing their first three league matches, with the initial two games against the eventual top two teams in the division. This presented a significant challenge for a squad that was essentially new to the field. Despite the discouraging beginning, the players remained resilient, diligently striving to establish their style of soccer in what appeared to be one of the most difficult seasons for Rockford FC. Coach Brett reflected on the first loss, noting the team was competitive throughout the match until a late setback.
The second match proved equally challenging, as they battled against a formidable Green Bay Glory, managing to score their first header through Arafath Oruro, but losing Ivan Patricio Paredes to a knee injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season.
The third match ended in a disappointing home defeat; although Rockford FC controlled the game and scored a potential winner through Waleed Shaibi, the referee disallowed the goal, leading to a swift counterattack by Chicago that resulted in a goal, leaving the fans bewildered by the officiating's decision.
The fourth match against Edgewater Castle at the Chicago Fire pitch became a pivotal moment for the team. With the stakes high and a rainy night, Rockford FC managed to take the lead in the second half through a counterattack led by Waleed, followed by another quick strike that left the opposing commentators in disbelief.
Rockford FC, currently positioned at seventh, traveled to Berber City and secured a decisive 4-0 victory, providing them with a much needed opportunity to show their capabilities as a premier semi-professional team, embodying the town's blue-collar spirit and resilience. Following this success, Rockford FC faced the Fox Valley Strikers at home, where they began to find their rhythm, ultimately earning a 4-2 victory against a tough opponent, marking a significant turning point in their season.
With their standings improving, Rockford FC prepared to host first-place AFC Roscoe in what promised to be an intense matchup. The team, riding a winning streak, aimed to showcase their hard work, and despite a back-and-forth game that ended in a 2-2 draw, they showed tenacity, with a tie being preferable to a loss.
On the road against Chicago Ghost, Rockford FC faced a challenging match filled with red and yellow cards, ultimately losing 2-4; however, they exhibited a fighting spirit that stablished them as a team to be reckoned with. With the season still competitive, Rockford FC sought to maintain their momentum, hosting Berber City, who aimed to avenge their earlier defeat. Rockford maintained composure with a 3-2 victory, reinforcing their position in the standings.
In a stormy game against Strikers in Fox Valley, Rockford FC understood the importance of securing a win, and they delivered it with a hard fought 4-2 victory, thanks to outstanding performances from players like Austin, Wasiu aka Pogba, and Dasha, showcasing their resilience as a squad.
To cap the season, Rockford FC was to host Green Bay Glory, who at this time was still fighting for a chance at first place. Rockford FC could dress as spoilers, avenge their early loss in Green Bay and secure a third place in the league. They boys played magnificent, the crowd was into it. The guys showed what they had done the entire season, they stepped on that field like giants they were, and played outstanding soccer. William Eiss put us at the front with a smart play off a dead ball, he ran through the heart of Glory's defense and put a ball that no goalie could ever get, swiftly showing why Rockford was in the map of the whole league.
Rockford FC board, players and coaching staff want to thank everyone of our fans for making 2024 a wonderful year, thanks to Derek Bayne, Senator Steve Stadelman and Mayor Tom McNamara for coming to our games and showing why Rockford FC is the program to partake on for the future seasons.
If you'd like to become a sponsor, a volunteer or a board member, reach out to any of our social media or emails and we'd love to have you.
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