EDINBURG — The RGV FC Toros and Oakland Roots shared the points on a cold Sunday night at H-E-B Park.
The match finished 1-1 courtesy of a 14th-minute finish from Jonathan Ricketts, and an 82nd-minute strike from Johnny Rodriguez.
The Roots could have stole all of the points, but the crossbar saved the day. The Toros also had chances to either put the game away when up for most of the match, as well as late to win it, but the final product was lacking for a front line that worked hard and created plenty of scoring opportunities.
“We created a lot of good chances, clear chances,” Toros head coach Wilmer Cabrera said. “We need to have more faith, and also just to connect — find the ball. I understand it is a process, hopefully we do not stay in the process longer. We need to win at home, and to put the ball in the net.”
A Toros mistake in the 82nd minute allowed Roots fullback Edgardo Rito to pick up the ball in a deadly position behind the RGV FC’s right flank. Rito played a low cross for Rodriguez. The second half sub beat Tyler Deric to level the match.
Cabrera said the changes made by the Roots gave them some momentum, but said his team had chances to finish the match, but could not find the back of the net.
“It is sad that we lost another two points at home,” Cabrera said. “But I do not want the players to be too disappointed. They have been working well, pushing and trying their best. It is just a matter of getting all the pieces with a little more consistency.”
Cabrera was happy about the return of veterans Juan Cabezas and Wahab Ackwei returning to the side after missing the opener. The Toros featured plenty of youth in their first outing.
Ricketts put the Toros ahead following a set piece in the 14th minute. Frank Nodarse’s scuffed shot was redirected in goal by Ricketts. The right back nearly doubled the Toros advantage minutes later, but his left-footed shot was just over the crossbar.
The Toros (0-0-2) return to action against Monterey Bay (1-1-0) at 7 p.m. Friday at H-E-B Park.