The reliable right back returned from a lengthy absence with something to prove and now, the fan-favorite confirms he’ll be wearing Old Glory Red for another anticipated season in Sacramento.
The 2020 USL Championship campaign was defender Shannon Gomez’s chance to return to top form and the right back rose to the occasion every time stepped on the pitch for the boys in Old Glory Red.
And after such a strong finish to the season, Gomez will be looking to build on this year’s positive performances and carry the momentum into the 2021 campaign.
After earning his first appearance in the 84th minute on August 22 against Portland Timbers 2, Gomez was a dependable staple in the Republic FC backline as the right back made defensive contributions in seven of the Indomitable Club’s final nine games this season including two starts. In just the seven appearances Gomez made in 2020, he still managed to finish tied for fifth on the team in blocked shots with three and a successful passing percentage of 84% was the second-best by a defender on the squad.
Of his blocks, perhaps none were more memorable this season than his dramatic goal line clearance on September 12 to deny what looked to surely be a goal for Reno 1868 FC before the RB soared into the air and headed the shot away to safety. His heroics to rob Reno of a score was nominated for the Suncrest Bank 2020 Save of the Year.
It took the tenacious right back a few games into the season to grace the pitch after Gomez sustained an injury the season before. Prior to his injury, the defender had logged the most minutes of any Republic FC player midway through the 2019 Championship season.
He picked up the knock in late July 2019 during a scoreless contest against Orange County SC but after a lengthy yet successful rehabilitation journey, the resilient right back was called into action to help his side see through the 2-1 win over T2 at Papa Murphy’s Park. During his rehab, his focus never wavered, and his determination never faded.
And now that he’s returned to full health, he’s fully committed to helping the boys in Old Glory Red make a run at capturing USL Championship glory in 2021 as well as competing for a shot at securing the starting RB role for the Indomitable Club once again.
SOURCE: sacrepublicfc.com