Phoenix Rising FC suffered a crushing 2-1 defeat to Monterey Bay FC, despite dominating nearly every aspect of the match. The loss marks the team’s third consecutive defeat, putting Phoenix Rising playoff hopes in serious jeopardy as they head into the final stretch of the season. While Rising controlled possession, out-shot Monterey, and created numerous chances, their inability to convert those opportunities continues to haunt them.

Rising Controls Early, Monterey Strikes First

Phoenix Rising started the match with energy and intent, controlling 61% of possession and moving the ball confidently. Early on, Jearl Margaritha broke through Monterey’s defense, but his shot was blocked by a recovering defender. Despite maintaining control of the game, Phoenix Rising playoff hopes took a hit in the 15th minute when Monterey capitalized on a half-chance. Mobi Fehr fired a shot from the top of the box that deflected off a defender, wrong-footing goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo, and trickled into the net.

Defensive Errors Threaten Phoenix Rising Playoff Hopes

Phoenix continued to press forward, with Renzo Zambrano, Darius Johnson, and Tomas Angel leading the attack. However, a disastrous moment came just before halftime. In the 44th minute, Rios Novo collided with teammate Pierce Gallaway while trying to collect a high-bouncing ball. The ball deflected off the goalkeeper and into the net, marking an own goal and doubling Monterey’s lead. This unfortunate error significantly worsened the outlook for Phoenix Rising playoff hopes, sending the team into the break trailing 2-0.

Dominance on Paper, but Not on the Scoreboard

Despite being down two goals, Phoenix continued to dominate the game after halftime. They recorded 22 shots, their highest total in a single match this season, compared to Monterey’s 8. In addition, Phoenix had 39 touches inside Monterey’s penalty box, but they struggled to find the back of the net. As the match progressed, frustration grew as Phoenix believed they were denied three potential penalties in quick succession, all of which went uncalled by the referee.

Diego Gomez, Phoenix Rising’s head coach, addressed these moments post-match, stating, “We cannot control the referee. We need to put ourselves in a better position earlier in the game to prevent that.”

Formella’s Late Goal Sparks Hope

In the 84th minute, Phoenix’s efforts finally paid off. Carlos Azocar, who had just entered the match, delivered a perfect ball across the box, finding forward Dariusz Formella near the penalty spot. Formella finished coolly, bringing Phoenix within one goal and reviving Phoenix Rising playoff hopes. Phoenix continued to push for the equalizer, maintaining 77% possession in the final minutes and spending 43% of that time in Monterey’s defensive third.

Despite the late pressure, Phoenix couldn’t find the breakthrough they needed. A last-second shot from Juan Azocar went wide, and the final whistle blew with Monterey claiming a 2-1 victory.

Tough Road Ahead for Phoenix Rising Playoff Hopes

The loss puts Phoenix Rising playoff hopes at serious risk as they prepare for a challenging week ahead. First, they travel to face New Mexico United, the top team in the Western Conference. Then, they head west to face Oakland Roots SC. Phoenix needs wins in both matches to keep their postseason ambitions alive and to avoid further slipping down the standings.

Phoenix’s performance in this match—outshooting their opponents and controlling possession—shows promise, but time is running out. With Phoenix Rising playoff hopes on the line, the team must find a way to turn their statistical dominance into results on the scoreboard.

Key Stats:

• Scoring:
  • MB – 15′ Mobi Fehr (Morey Doner)
  • MB – 44′ Rocco Ríos Novo (Own Goal)
  • PHX – 84′ Dariusz Formella (Carlos Azocar)
• Shots: Phoenix 22, Monterey 8
• Possession: Phoenix 61%, Monterey 39%
• Touches in Opponent’s Box: Phoenix 39, Monterey 13