At the end of 2015, the future of professional soccer in San Antonio was up in the air. The doubt subsided quickly as the USL announced in early 2016 that San Antonio would join the league with a new club. On February 2nd 2016, it was official with the reveal of the club crest and first signings to the team.
In celebration of the first five years of the San Antonio Futbol Club, we mark our five favorite moments in cub history. This isn’t a top 5 list; just our 5 favorite memories.
First Home Match
San Antonio FC played their first match in club history in Washington State the week prior and came away with a 3-0 win over then Seattle Sounders 2 (now Tacoma Defiance); now it was time for the home debut. In front of a sell out crowd of 8,466, SAFC took the pitch versus Swope Park Rangers (now Sporting KC II). The noise from the fans and supporters was deafening, Danny Garcia scored the first goal in club history and ended in a 1-1 draw.
Greg Cochrane’s 100th Match
The Iron Man of San Antonio, fan favorite Greg Cochrane’s career was celebrated at Toyota Field with his 100th match with the club. Greg is remembered for his hard style of play, owning the wings and making plays. It was a nice touch from club and fans to celebrate his milestone match.
Rafa Castillo’s Last Goal
When Rafa scored this goal, little did we know it would be his last goal of his professional, storied career. But watching the build up, the assist by Cristian Parano, Rafa beautifully placing in the back of the net and the celebration that followed, we knew this one was special.
San Antonio FC First Ever Playoff Match
SAFC finished 2nd overall in the Western Conference in 2017 and earned a home playoff match in the first round versus the Tulsa Roughnecks (now FC Tulsa). The match was tied 1-1 going into the 90th minute when Michael Reed on a counter, made a through ball to Billy Forbes who was knocked down inside the 18 and it was Ever Guzman who became the hero as he converted the penalty in the 90+2 minute, advancing SAFC to the Conference Semi-Finals. Relive the whole match below:
Ever Guzman’s Hat Trick at Portland
It was an away match late in the 2019 season and SAFC was fighting for a playoff spot at Portland on October 11th. Guzman turned it a few gears scoring in the 6th, 12th and 67th minutes. Guzman hat rick broke a scoring drought that last from June 8th til October 11th. What makes this memorable was we called it before the start of the match on our Instagram that Cheno would have a fire game.
What’s your favorite moments and memories of San Antonio Futbol Club over the past five seasons? Lets us know and share your stories.
Soy San Antonio Fútbol 
I can think of a pretty good memory… 😉 can’t believe you left me hanging!
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