Rhode Island FC advances to first conference finals appearance in club history
by NBC 10 NEWS
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WJAR) — In the club’s inaugural season, Rhode Island FC advances to the USL Championship Eastern Conference title game.
On Saturday, the club defeated top-seeded Louisville City FC, 3-0. They are the first expansion club to make the conference title game in five seasons.
Rhode Island FC forward JJ Williams receives a pass from a teammate. Williams would score two goals as RIFC defeated Louisville City FC on November 9, 2024 (RIFC).
J.J. Williams paced the blue and gold with two goals; the forward started the scoring with a goal in the ninth minute, then capitalized off a defensive turnover by blasting a shot past the Louisville City FC keeper in the 78th minute.
In stoppage time, Albert “Chico” Dikwa put the cherry on top with a goal off a saved penalty shot to seal the deal for RIFC.
The club will play either the Tampa Bay Rowdies or Charleston Battery in the Eastern Conference title game. Tampa Bay and Charleston play Sunday afternoon. If Tampa Bay wins, RIFC would serve as the home club for what would be the first home match in club history. The conference final date has yet to be determined.