San Antonio FC began a three-game road trip on Wednesday night that will see them face some tough competition early on. In their first test, SAFC showed they have the strength to rally back and pick up an important road point.
SAFC rallied to earn a 1-1 draw against the league-leading L.A. Galaxy II inside the StubHub Center on to remain undefeated on the young season.
“It wasn’t as fluid as we perhaps like, and the final quality still needs to improve, but overall to come earn a point against the Western Conference champions on the road is something we will really value,” SAFC Head Coach Darren Powell said.
Los Angeles was aggressive early, sending a shot towards the San Antonio net as Josh Ford came out to challenge. San Antonio had a few shots in the opening half, but not solid chances thanks to smothering L.A. defense.
The home team got on the scoreboard in the late stages of the first half. Los Angeles forward Jack McBean got free on a cross and placed the ball near the top corner of the goal, out of Ford’s reach. The goal gave the Galaxy the 1-0 lead after the first 45 minutes.
San Antonio FC saw their goal being threatened in the second half. Ford came up big with three keys saves, including one from point blank range to keep his club in the match. SAFC got the equalizer late when Carlos Alvarez buried the ball in the corner of the net to make it 1-1 at the final whistle.
“I was hungry all game for a chance to get a shot on goal,” Alvarez said. “I knew if I got that chance I’d put it in the back of the net and get those points for my team.”
San Antonio FC is now 1-0-2 (5 points) on the season and will return to the pitch on Saturday night against the Orange County Blues at 9 p.m.
