On April 15, the Richmond Kickers played in the third round of the U.S. Open Cup Game against the Columbus Crew, after defeating Loudoun United FC in the second round. The U.S. Open Cup, also known as the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, is the longest ongoing national soccer competition in the country.

Making soccer history, the Richmond Kickers are the only active professional soccer club, not in Major League Soccer, to have won a U.S. Open Cup after claiming their cup title in 1995 against the El Paso Patriots. Hardcore Kickers fan and Clover Hill High School alum, Jack, shares his pregame hopes.

“The last time we made it was 1995, and we won. So we’re hoping that this year, we have another David versus Goliath moment, and hopefully Richmond Kickers prevail,” Jack said.

Kicker’s games are labeled as a charming part of Richmond culture due to their charismatic mascot, the Kickeroo, and the wide range of cuisines they offer. The Kickeroo is known to be highly interactive with fans and is often seen in the stands, around the food trucks, and during Wednesday’s game, challenging a fan to a dance battle. Multiple notable food trucks and chains were present during the game such as Kona Ice, Chick-fil-A, and El Guapo. Local Kicker’s fan Tara, reflects on how it feels to be a part of Richmond Kickers community. 

“Kickers games are very close knit and very supportive. Everybody’s here to have a good time, eat some good food, have some good drinks, and watch a good game,” Tara said.

With beautiful weather and a near record breaking 5,046 people in attendance, the Columbs Crew kicked off the game at 7:30 p.m. The Richmond Kickers started the game competitively with a series of chances in the seventh minute and a goal line clearance by Kickers goalie Yann Fillion. The Kickers also showed their strength by holding the Columbus Crew 0-0 up until the end of the second half. Jack weighs in on the depth of opportunity that the U.S. Open Cup offers. 

“The U.S. Open Cup will bring them a renewed sense of pride and identity,” Jack said.

After a defensive second half, the Richmond Kickers conceded two goals resulting in a final score of 3-0 and a Kickers loss with Jamal Thiaré scoring the lead for the Columbus Crew in the 74th minute. The Richmond Kickers now hold a 1-3-0 record against the Columbus Crew in the U.S. Open Cup.

“I would consider the Kickers patriotic, loyal, and enthusiastic,” Jack said.