Cumberland's Sophia Soares kicks a ball with freestyle soccer players before Rhode Island FC's debut game Saturday at Bryant University's Beirne Stadium.
David Delpoio/Providence Journal
Rhode Island FC fans packed the parking lot of Bryant's Beirne Stadium, many wearing the team's signature jerseys and scarves.
David Delpoio/Providence Journal
Members of the Rhode Island Gooners, a group that gathers to watch Arsenal games at Hope Street Pizza in Providence, were among the soccer fans who tailgated for Saturday's season opener.
Antonia Nouri Farzan/Providence Journal
Bryant's Beirne Stadium was filled with enthusiastic tailgaters, many wearing the team's iconic navy and yellow jerseys and scarves. The sunshine and relatively warm temperatures near 60 degrees added to the celebratory mood.
David Delpoio/Providence Journal
Players warm up at Bearn Stadium before the start of the game between Rhode Island FC and New Mexico United on Saturday afternoon.
David Delpoio/Providence Journal
Pop-up tents, grills and pickup soccer games will fill the Bryants Byant Stadium parking lot before Saturday's main event.
Antonia Nouri Farzan/Providence Journal
