The growing rivalry between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sacramento Republic FC took another step forward Saturday night as the Quakes secured a 1-0 victory in the hostile setting of sold-out Bonney Field.
With both teams still in their respective preseasons, it was understandable that the game had a chippy feel, but it was San Jose that was better on the night, beating their NorCal competition courtesy of a Matias Perez Garcia goal at the start of the second half.
Perez Garcia's goal came courtesy of a fine pass from fellow Designated Player Chris Wondolowski, as the returning U.S. international laid a ball off in the area for the Argentine forward to calmly slot home.
The match marked the return of Tommy Thompson and Adam Jahn to Bonney Field. The two Quakes youngsters played part of their 2014 seasons on loan with the USL club, with Jahn proving an instrumental contributor in Sacarmento's league championship campaign.
The Earthquakes continue their preseason schedule with a home match against the LA Galaxy next Saturday at Avaya Stadium. The practice Cali Clasico marks the soft opening of the Earthquakes new stadium. The official opening will take place on March 22, when San Jose hosts the Chicago Fire in its MLS regular season home opener.