Rough patch continues for RGVFC, set to face Rising FC

Toros Implode On The Road

RGVFC hit the road last weekend to hopefully break out of their recent slump. Unfortunately, that run of bad form continued with the Toros losing 3-1 to OKC Energy FC.

It was actually the away side that got on the board first. Jesus “Chuy” Enriquez was played the ball on a short corner, and after his cross was blocked, he rose to head the ball towards the front of goal. Omar Ontiveros charged onto it and sent it past the keeper. Just over five minutes later, Energy FC tied things up. A poor pass back from Jorginho James, followed by a battle for the ball and an unfortunate bounce, Jaime Siaj received the ball wide open in front of an empty goal due to Nico Corti rushing off his line. The goal likely would have been scored either way, but the OKC player initially involved in the battle for the ball, didn’t hurry to get up off of Corti.

A header off of a corner kick gave the hosts the lead in the 53rd minute. The Toros brought everyone forward late, including Corti, for a last minute corner kick. Energy FC collected it and Miguel Gonzalez took it the distance to bring us to our final 3-1 scoreline. RGVFC led in possession, shots, shots on goal, and passing accuracy.

Ballin’ Bulls

Dynamo Theory’s Man of the Match Chuy Enriquez: The tricky winger did well to push the action for RGV’s attack. He did well to set up Ontiveros’ goal and is always dangerous with the ball at his feet.

Omar Ontiveros: Opening the scoring, Ontiveros did well to put home his chance in the first half. The central defender also made two interceptions and blocked two shots.

Bryce Marion: The Matrix had his best game so far in his young career. He created two chances and completed 86% of his passes.

Talkin’ Toros

Jorginho James explains what Phoenix Rising does well

“I think they play to their strength. That is their speed and the way they move off the ball, understanding each other. In the last three matches, they haven’t given up a goal and scored seven. It’s going to be a good game and we are looking forward to it.”

Kyle Adams on what’s important to stop a dangerous counter attacking team, like Phoenix Rising FC

“Being proactive on offense. So that when we lose the ball, we already have good shape to win the ball back and are tight on the other teams forwards.”

The Good Guys: Rio Grande Valley FC Toros (1-6-7)

RGVFC’s win total has been stuck at one since April 25th. They scored a major upset that day, knocking off the in form Orange County SC. Can Saturday’s match be a repeat of that?

The Toros will need a superstar performance from someone in the attack. Whether that’s Chuy Enriquez, Aldo Quintanilla, or someone else, they need someone to step up.

The defense, for the most part, has been consistent this year. They will need to be locked in to handle the counter attacking Jorginho and Kyle discussed. Also, there must be a commitment to crisp passing in the midfield to prevent Phoenix from taking advantage of giveaways.

The Bad Guys: Phoenix Rising FC (9-3-4)

Remember a couple weeks ago when I said that playing Real Monarchs SLC during a slump was less than ideal. Well, this week’s opponent isn’t any easier. Phoenix Rising FC has won three of their previous four matches, scoring 10 goals across that stretch.

That run has pushed them to the second-highest point total in the USL. Speaking of run, Rising FC does a whole lot of running. With attacking players like former Houston Dynamo man Jason Johnson, Solomon Asante, and others, they get out on the break and do serious damage when they do. Johnson was the USL’s Player of the Week last week.

The Dirty Details

Saturday, 6/23, at 7:30 PM CDT

RGVFC vs. Phoenix Rising FC from H-E-B Park

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