Welcome back to SoySAF The Final Word. San Antonio FC is finally back in action and it did not disappoint. There are to many good things happening with the squad and those in attendance were content to see the USL Champions back in action. They begin where they left off, by winning with some statement goals, and the unveiling of our CHAMPION BANNER!
Here are some major takes from the home opener 3-1 victory against Oakland Roots SC.
Frist off, Oakland Roots is no joke an easy team to beat. Those that have followed the squad know that this team is known to make late playoff runs and knocking out major teams in playoff so they should never be taken lightly. Former San Antonio Scorpion Champion (NASL) Defender Joseph Nane made his return to Toyota to try to upend the Champs. He had his hands full with speed and agility of the San Antonio attacking front.
The Backline and Keep: Lets face it, we lost a major Defender and Champion Jasser Khmiri, and Saturday night the back line reassured that this year it will just be as bad for teams to score on us away and at home. Mitch Taintor looks MVP quality already and Man Of The Match went to new comer the Oklahoma Kid Lamar Batista. I mean what other defender will give you a “Chinela” and a ” Media Cancha” Golazo!!! CALIDAD PAPA! Fabi Garcia went off with that speed to cover territory from Defense right into the opponents goal. This Defense crew will shatter records this year.
And always at Keep.. AirJordan Farr just did what Farr does best; Lead, Communicate and KEEP! Man looks in great form and made sure that, the one lone goal scored by Oakland didn’t happen again. The man is set to win Golden Glove and much more. An unfortunate early cost us the clean sheet but we have a feeling, many shutouts are loading after a monster second half!
Midfield: PC, Maloney and Gomez are BACK! and they for sure looked ready to fight. Oakland did have longer time of possession with a 67% to 33% against SAFC, however the middle made sure that when attacking, SAFC had the ability to create and switch field with ease and control. New comer Jacori Hayes, who missed the 2022 season with MLS Minnesota United FC, looked beastly and fit right into the SAFC rhythm. Creating solid runs at goal and challenging on Oaklands attacking middle.
The Forwards: What can I say. Impressive! We lost Santi Patino and all wondered where the forward threat would come from. David Leora, Justin Dhillon and another Minnesota United FC acquisition, Danish Niko Hansen answered that question and left no doubt the Trio means business. Niko opened his SAFC goal account with a master piece season opener SAFC Golazo!
The fans for sure were present as well local Spurs basketball players and Mayor Ron Nirenberg to ” Raise The USL CUP” and unveiling of Championship banner. Almost a sell out crowd at Toyota Field and a great moment. The soccer experience is different than other venues since the crowd is used to being more in basketball games cheering rather than organic full on 90 minutes of smoke, chanting and beer flow one would be used to seeing. However, it is distinct and a fun time. Lets hope it continues to grow and Toyota Field throughout the season.
Peep the USL Game recap! Solid!
Soy San Antonio Fútbol 