All Toros, No Bull: RGVFC break out with first-ever win over Republic
For the first time in club history, RGVFC defeated Sacramento Republic FC.
After some tough, scoreless matches, RGVFC turned things around with a 2-1 victory over Sacramento Republic FC at H-E-B Park. Wilmer Cabrera Jr. and Kyle Adams scored for the Toros, while an Isidro Martinez own goal was the only tally for the Quails.
RGVFC Toros (6-9-5)
This was a big-time win for the Toros for multiple reasons. Historically, they’ve never beat Sacramento in club history, so that’s a nice accomplishment. The win allowed RGVFC to break out of their scoreless slump and will also give them momentum as they enter a crucial stretch of the schedule with some matches away from home, starting on Saturday. Despite their recent cold streak, the Toros only sit three points below the playoff cut off line and six points from fourth on the table.
It will be interesting to see how this team adjusts going forward. While Carlos Small assisted on Kyle Adams’ winner, he also missed a couple of really good opportunities and seems to be lacking confidence. Wilmer Cabrera Jr. is off to Butler University, taking his playmaking and goalscoring with him. Kevin Rodriguez looked a bit more lively against Republic FC, but can he or Camilo Monroy finally turn sizzle in substance? That will be the true determining factor as the season moves forward.
In exciting news, Small, Adams, and Isidro Martinez will be joining the first team for the Dynamo’s Leagues Cup match tonight vs. Club America.
Top Toros
Kyle Adams: The central defender converted when his club needed him most, scoring his first professional goal. He totaled seven clearances, 81% passing accuracy, and committed zero fouls in the match.
Wilmer Cabrera Jr.: In likely his final game with RGVFC, Andy scored the opening goal and created two chances.
Camilo Monroy: Without Chuy Enriquez, Monroy was tasked with the primary responsibility of pushing the action. He finished with two chances created, two shots, and two fouls won.
This Week’s Quote-A-Bulls: Robert Castellanos & Victor Garza
On how to keep the momentum going away from home:
Castellanos: We just have to execute the coaches’ game plan, and make sure we are compact in the defense making it difficult for teams to break us down and build from there.
Garza: I believe that we need to continue to dig deep and fight with courage. Play with responsibility and confidence in our ability. At this point, we need to accumulate points no matter what. Winning at all costs should be our mindset 24/7.
Las Vegas Lights FC (6-7-5)
The Toros comfortably handled Las Vegas Lights FC at H-E-B Park earlier this season, but Sin City’s squad is very different at home than they are away. At Cashman Field, they are 5-1-3 while they are 1-6-1 on the road.
Irvin Parra is the leading scorer for Lights FC and has scored nearly all of his goals at home. Preston Tabort Etaka brings speed and skill to the frontline. The club’s MVP so far this season has been goalkeeper Thomas Olsen. A native of Las Vegas, he’s solidified a position of uncertainty most of last season. Pablo Cruz leads the club in chances created and is a talented dribbler looking for his teammates.
Tonight, Lights FC return to action against Tacoma Defiance after being off since 7/4, the night they drew 2-2 vs. Los Dos.
The Particulars
Saturday, 7/27, at 9:30 PM Central Time
RGVFC Toros at Las Vegas Lights FC
An Eloise Ending
