BY JOHN JOE RIVERA | SPECIAL TO THE MONITOR
EDINBURG — Having to overcome cold temperatures, a steady drizzle, and a stingy defense, the PSJA Southwest Javelinas managed to remain undefeated in District 31-6A as they were victorious over the Edinburg North Cougars, 3-2, on Friday night.
“It was hard fought on both sides. Obviously, the weather was a factor in it [the game] as well,” interim Southwest coach Jesus Rocha said. “They were looking for our mistakes, and we were able to capitalize on theirs as well.”
Edinburg North (1-1 in 31-6A) got on the scoreboard first, as Azael De Leon connected on a free kick at the 14:01 mark of the first half. De Leon scored one goal in his team’s opening district game on Tuesday night, as well.
The lead didn’t last long, though, as PSJA Southwest (2-0 in 31-6A) struck from just past midfield to tie the game at the 13:47 mark. The 1-1 tie would stand through halftime.
After intermission, the Cougars’ De Leon scored again, this time on a penalty kick at the 38:03 mark of the second half. That goal would cap the scoring for the Cougars on the night.
From there, Javelinas junior midfielder Daniel Salinas took over, connecting on a penalty kick goal at the 20:40 mark of the second half to tie the game at 2.
With 1:02 left in regulation and the score still knotted at 2, Salinas was awarded another penalty kick due to interference from the Cougars goalie for a chance to seal the win for his team.
“To be honest, I was very nervous, but I wasn’t afraid, because my team is always by my side,” Salinas said as he explained his thoughts on the game-winning goal. “I’m very proud of my brothers, and I’m very excited for this win.”
Despite coming into the season with high expectations, Edinburg North coach Elias Moran knew his team would face adversity along the way.
“Mentally the kids are prepared for anything,” Moran said. “Tomorrow, we are going to start again and get ready for the next game.”
PSJA Southwest will look to continue its hot start to district play next week as it hosts Edinburg Vela.