RIFC sputtering out of the gate

Though it's early, 2nd year USL Championship team Rhode Island FC have started extremely slow in 2025. Starting the year off with 1 point out of 9 is not how manager Khano Smith saw 2025 commencing.

Though early days, there are plenty of things to be concerned with so far for the Anchors. One being the lack of clinical edge and finishing in the final third. Former USL Championship Golden Boot winner Albert Dikwa looks less and less confident in front of net by the minute. JJ Williams also has lacked the quality that will be needed to help the amber and blue have a repeat season of last year.

I have a couple theories for the slow start. Newly acquired creative mid Maxi Rodriguez is still finding his footing within the team. When you bring a player of that stature and personality it could take time for Rhode Island to integrate Maxi in the team and fire on all cylinders.

My other theory includes Mark Ybarra. Although Ybarra started last game, he was replaced in game 1 & 2 by rookie Taimu Okiyoshi. The Marshall Thundering Herd product has less than impressed so far for RIFC. Not saying he has been terrible, but he lacks the bite that Ybarra brings. Manager Khano Smith has been extremely impressed with Okiyoshi's on the ball ability and has preferred the rookie over proven USL vets.

Yes, it's early, yes things can be tweaked, however Coach Smith surely wants to get this going in the right direction before the May 3rd home opener vs unbeaten and top of the western conference side San Antonio FC.......