Aztex Shine in Final Home Match

photo courtesy Austin Aztex
photo courtesy Austin Aztex

In what was likely the final match at Kelly Reeves Athletic Complex for 2015, an announced crowd of 5,050 witnessed the Austin Aztex (9-13-3) defeat the Seattle Sounders 2 (12-11-3) by a narrow 2-1 margin. The victory allowed the club to post a winning home record in their first USL season. Saturday’s match also saw the Aztex wear pink jerseys that were auctioned to support Komen Austin and the Aztex Foundation.

Paul Dalglish chose a lineup combination and formation we have not seen this year. The move provided quick dividends for the Aztex midfield as they found the back of the net twice in the first half. The ball movement, crisp passing and possession displayed were reminiscent of Dalglish’s USLPDL squads.

The opening goal, scored by local product Andres Cuero, was set up by a perfectly touched cross from Romain Gall. Roughly 20 minutes later Gall, on loan from Columbus Crew, had a goal of his own. Tony Rocha’s pass split 2 defenders and found Gall one on one with the keeper. Gall’s patience on the ball allowed him the time and angle to beat a charging keeper, and net his first goal of the season.

Sounders 2 were able to break through with a goal in the 43rd minute. The Sounders 2 goal was scored by native Texan, Sam Garza who spent time on loan with the San Antonio Scorpions in 2014. While both squads had chances in the 2nd half, the match ended 2-1.

Next up for the Aztex: a 3 game road trip to end the regular season. On Wednesday they will take on the Colorado Switchbacks, a team they’ve defeated twice at House Park. While chances are slim, the 10th place Aztex are not yet mathematically eliminated from the playoff hunt.

photo courtesy Austin Aztex
photo courtesy Austin Aztex