Toros end their draw-filled season...with a draw

South Tie-xas Derby

With major playoff implications on the line for San Antonio FC and pride on the line for RGVFC, Saturday’s South Texas Derby was a hotly contested one. Possession was split 51-49% and shots were 15-14, both in favor of San Antonio. There was no edge, however, on the scoreboard. At Toyota Field, the teams played to a 1-1 draw.

San Antonio struck first in front of their home crowd with Ever Guzman scoring in the 24th minute. He blasted a point-blank header home past Michael Nelson.

The Toros would find their equalizer early in the second half. Jesus “Chuy” Enriquez combined with Carlos Small as the attack arrived into the San Antonio penalty area. The winger found Small, who found the back of the net. Despite having nothing to play for, RGVFC was the better side in the second half. They forced a trio of massive saves from Matt Cardone to keep things level.

There was a missed penalty call that would have given SAFC a chance for a winner, but the referee didn’t point to the spot after Sheldon Sullivan took out Lance Laing on the edge of the area.

It would finish as the 14th draw of the season for the Toros, tied for a league-high.

Ballin’ Bulls

Dynamo Theory’s Man of the Match, Carlos Small: The powerful striker buried the lone goal for RGVFC.

Chuy Enriquez: He continues to play well vs. San Antonio. Chuy assisted on Small’s goal and nearly buried a second half winner.

Todd Wharton: The captain connected on 93% of his 45 passes. He also made three clearances and had one interception.

Talkin’ Toros

Chuy Enriquez on assisting on the lone goal:

“It was a good game, back and forth. It felt great to help prevent San Antonio from making the playoffs.”

Wilmer Cabrera Jr. on how rookie season:

“It was an unbelievable experience that helped me grow immensely, not only as a soccer player, but also as a person. I learned a lot this past year and it will help me a lot as I progress in my career.”

The Good Guys: Rio Grande Valley FC Toros (8-12-14)

Well, we’ve reached the end of another RGVFC season. It was a disappointing year from a results standpoint, but it was a positive one from a development standpoint. The club had their youngest roster to date and they were rarely blown out.

Now, we will wait and see what the offseason brings. The Houston Dynamo front office will make roster decisions to determine who they can continue to develop next season.

Next week, you will get your yearly RGVFC Player Review, right here at Dynamo Theory!

Your Weekly Dose of Eloise