The Bull & Its Horns: RGV’s Ready For Reigning West Champs

Omar Ontiveros Onboarded

While RGVFC was spending a week away from matches, they did handle some business off the pitch. The club announced they signed Omar Ontiveros. He is a defender, originally from the Rio Grande Valley area.

The 21 year old center-back played for Club Santos Laguna’s U-20 side, before playing professionally in Luxembourg. He participated in the club’s open tryout before the season.

The Good Guys: Rio Grande Valley FC Toros (3-3-0)

In case you missed it, last time out, the Toros dominated OKC Energy FC 3-0. They got goals from Eric Bird, Joseph Holland, and Jose Escalante. Holland was also selected to the USL Team of the Week.

The club seems to be bouncing back and forth between a possession heavy attack, and a counter attacking side more similar to the Dynamo. Hopefully, the can determine which one is a better fit, and develop a bit more consistency.

After a week off, ideally we’ll see a rested RGV, and not a rusty squad.

The Bad Guys: Swope Park Rangers (4-2-0)

The reigning Western Conference champions are explosive offensively. Despite losing USL all-time leading scorer Dane Kelly in the offseason, they have some serious attacking threats. Kevin Oliveira, Nansel Selbol, and Kharlton Belmar all possess the pace, and finishing ability to make a defense pay.

Last season, the Toros got the best of the season series 2-1. They won 4-1 at home, then got blown out at Swope Park. In the rubber match, also at Swope, RGVFC defeated a lineup of mostly Sporting KC match day loanees.

It will be important for the Toros midfield, and back line to stay focused, and not get torched on the quick counter attack.

Talkin’ Toros:

TJ Casner on what makes Swope Park a great team: “They are a technically and tactically talented team that plays good soccer. They also have a young core that is full of players that can push for first team spots, making them very competitive.”

The Dirty Details:

5/13 7:30pm CDT

RGVFC vs. Swope Park at H-E-B Park

Watch it live HERE