Calistri Continues His Hot Streak In Tulsa

Chicago Fire USL affiliate Tulsa Roughnecks FC fell to Sacramento Republic FC 2-1 on Saturday at ONEOK Field in Tulsa.

The Roughnecks—who are in their first season as the Fire’s USL affiliate—went down early in the second half after an uneventful first 45 minutes. Sacramento found themselves 1-nil up in the 49th minute following a tap-in goal from Wilson Kneeshaw, and 2-nil up after Tyler Blackwood found the net for SAFC again in the 67th minute.

However, for the final 20 minutes of the match, Tulsa asked questions of Sacramento’s back line—a charge led by Chicago Fire loanee Joey Calistri. Calistri, who has accounted for an assist and goal leading up to Saturday, continued to make his presence known in the USL.

The former Northwestern Wildcat once again found the net in the 80th minute, this time in rather classy fashion. The soon-to-be(?) Fire first-teamer took a rebound off his chest, and coolly volleyed the ball to the far post. This finish further shows that Calistri has the fox-in-the-box mentality that could be vital to the Fire in future seasons, and shows that he’s a striker’s striker.

Another game, another impressive performance for Calistri. This is the third week in a row that I’ve said this, but if the Fire loanee keeps it up, he may earn a spot back in Chicago this year. Many Fire fans have questions about the squads depth this season, and Calistri could provide some valuable minutes off the bench.

The Roughnecks will return to action on April 22 when they take on Rio Grande Valley FC in a rematch of their second match of the season—the first game of a two-match road trip. A little time away from home will be a test for Calistri, lets see if he can keep it up.