South Texas Derby Ends in 2-2 Shootout Draw
August 20, 2022 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Rio Grande Valley FC Toros News Release
SAN ANTONIO, Texas - Rio Grande Valley F.C (7-11-6) faced San Antonio FC (18-4-3) at Toyota Field. Pinzon, Ward score for RGV as they manage a 2-2 draw to a San Antonio side who had to rescue a home result.
The first 15-minute block produced some good entries into the final thirds of each side as RGV collected one shot, which went off target and San Antonio managed two shots, one on target in the quick paced early goings, 0-0.
Christian Pinzon broke the deadlock at the 35th minute as he sent a strong shot to the back of the net from just outside the center of the 18-yard box, 1-0. This marked his first career USL Championship goal.
At the 37th minute, Akeem Ward caught the San Antonio defense off guard and sent a well-placed shot from deep in the left wing to the top right corner of the net to extend the lead 2-0 in favor of RGV FC. Ward tallies one goal with the Toros since joining the team.
The good guys closed out the half with four shots, two on target which produced both stellar goals from outside the 18-yard box to lock in a 2-0 halftime lead. San Antonio was left to defend 35 final third entries and were kept at bay by the Toros as the visitors possessed 65 percent of the half.
Jonas Fjeldberg tested the goal at the 48th minute but was denied by woodwork as his shot bounced clear off the left post, his shot came from the right end of the box, 2-0.
Jose Torres hit woodwork on a direct free kick try at the 54th minute, the ball hit the top left corner of the goal as a diving Jordan Farr closed the angle to keep the match at 2-0.
Shannon Gomez stole one back for San Antonio as he received a pass inside the box and sent a rifling shot past Tyler Deric to make it 2-1.
Mitchell Taintor equalized the match on a set piece play at the 95th minute where he connected on a header to beat Deric, 2-2. This secured a point for the home team after trailing all match.
RGV shot eleven times, and placed five on target as they were able to control pace most of the match and traded blows with SAFC; the home side shot twelve and also placed five on target.
The Toros continue their month-long road schedule as they head west to Nevada to take on Las Vegas Lights on August 27. The action kicks off at 9:30pm CST. To see more matchday information, visit www.rgvfc.com.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 20, 2022
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- South Texas Derby Ends in 2-2 Shootout Draw - Rio Grande Valley FC Toros
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