In what is possibly the final meeting between Tacoma Defiance and Orange County, Wade Webber’s side will look to go undefeated against the SoCal power in 2021. Defiance are 2-0-1, +4 against OCSC this year, and yet to give up a goal.

After their seventh loss in a row, Tacoma’s hopes of making the playoffs are plummeting. What narrow path remains involves retaking home form. Defiance are 6-3-3, +5 at Cheney Stadium this year, with four of their final six matches in the magical place where you will always see one unique thing.

Orange County SC is the rare team better on the road than at home. When they travel they are 6-4-3, +7.

Why You Should Watch

• Fear Is the Mind-Killer: Fear is the little death. The offense can only return to respectability if Adeniran, Diaz, Serrano and the rest shoot and then shoot some more. Do not live in fear.
• He Who Controls the Ball Controls the Universe: Defiance are at their best when they are a strong possession side that helps the defense succeed. Against one of the better attacks in the USL Championship, Tacoma must control the ball.
• It Is Impossible to Live in the Past: Those past seven games do not matter. All that matters is tonight. Tonight makes the next nights matter.
• Greatness Is a Transitory Experience: All but the best goalscorers are transitory. Those that were not great in the past can be great now.
• You’re Still High on Soccer After Sounders: After the Sounders beat Vancouver you can catch #TheFuture in action.

How to Watch

Match date/kickoff time: Saturday, October 9, 7:00 PM PT

Venue: Cheney Stadium | Tacoma, Washington

Online Streaming: ESPN+

Defiance Absences: There are no injuries to report. Sota Kitahara is on loan to FC Pinzgau Saalfelden in Austria until the end of 2021. Azriel Gonzalez is on loan to FC Edmonton through the 2021 CPL season.

OCSC: to be announced