News

San Antonio FC (13-8-10) finished the 90 minutes scoreless alongside Austin Bold FC (10-10-11) on Saturday at Toyota Field. The home point for the Alamo City club returns them to second place in the Mountain Division with one game to play.  

“I thought we were the dominant and superior steam from start to finish,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “They had one spell where they had a lot of free kicks and corner kicks. But other than that, we created more than enough opportunities to earn the three points. We know we have to be more clinical in front of goal.”

Despite the 0-0 result, SAFC created a number of chances to win the game, recording 15 shots and creating 14 chances on the evening. SAFC forward Nathan led the team with four shots and two shots on target, helping him set a new single-season SAFC record in both categories. The Young Player of the Year candidate has now recorded 69 shots and 31 shots on target in 2021, surpassing former midfielder Rafa Castillo who recorded 67 shots and 29 on target in 2016.

Alongside Nathan, SAFC forwards Justin Dhillon, Santiago Patino and also midfielder Jose Gallegos all came close to opening the scoring for SAFC. The San Antonio defense held strong for 90-plus minutes led by SWBC Man of the Match Kortne Ford and goalkeeper Matthew Cardone. Cardone made three saves, giving him 94 on the season, which ties his single season record he set in 2019.

SAFC will now have a chance to clinch a home playoff spot in their match against Colorado Springs next Saturday at Toyota Field. Should SAFC win or tie that match, they would finish second in the Mountain Division and host a first-round playoff game in San Antonio.

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (Kortne Ford) 30’

ATX: Yellow Card (Sonny Guadarrama) 30’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Connor Maloney) 65’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jasser Khmiri) 86’

ATX: Yellow Card (Elliot Panicco) 90’

Attendance: 6,516

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Kortne Ford, Jasser Khmiri, Mitch Taintor; M: Connor Maloney, Mohammed Abu, Jose Gallegos, Marcus Epps, PC (c); F: Nathan, Justin Dhillon (Santiago Patino 56’)

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Joaquin Varela, Sam Gleadle, Mathieu Deplagne, Cam Lindley, Chris Lema

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC earned a home point with a 0-0 draw vs. rivals Austin Bold FC tonight…the result marks the first scoreless draw for SAFC this season, and first overall in the regular season since 8/12/20 at FC Tulsa
• SAFC goalkeeper Matthew Cardone kept his seventh clean sheet of the season, making three saves in the process…Cardone has now made 94 saves on the season, tying his own SAFC season record which he originally recorded in 2019
• SAFC forward Nathan recorded four shots on the night…his four shots take him to 69 on the season, setting a new SAFC record for shots in a single campaign…former SAFC midfielder Rafa Castillo recorded 67 shots in the 2016 season…in addition, Nathan’s 31 shots on target are also a new record for SAFC surpassing Castillo who recorded 29 in 2016
• SAFC defender Kortne Ford was named the SWBC Man of the Match after winning 83.3 percent of his aerial duels and adding two tackles and four clearances while helping keep the shutout

San Antonio FC (13-8-10) finished the 90 minutes scoreless alongside Austin Bold FC (10-10-11) on Saturday at Toyota Field. The home point for the Alamo City club returns them to second place in the Mountain Division with one game to play.  

“I thought we were the dominant and superior steam from start to finish,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “They had one spell where they had a lot of free kicks and corner kicks. But other than that, we created more than enough opportunities to earn the three points. We know we have to be more clinical in front of goal.”

Despite the 0-0 result, SAFC created a number of chances to win the game, recording 15 shots and creating 14 chances on the evening. SAFC forward Nathan led the team with four shots and two shots on target, helping him set a new single-season SAFC record in both categories. The Young Player of the Year candidate has now recorded 69 shots and 31 shots on target in 2021, surpassing former midfielder Rafa Castillo who recorded 67 shots and 29 on target in 2016.

Alongside Nathan, SAFC forwards Justin Dhillon, Santiago Patino and also midfielder Jose Gallegos all came close to opening the scoring for SAFC. The San Antonio defense held strong for 90-plus minutes led by SWBC Man of the Match Kortne Ford and goalkeeper Matthew Cardone. Cardone made three saves, giving him 94 on the season, which ties his single season record he set in 2019.

SAFC will now have a chance to clinch a home playoff spot in their match against Colorado Springs next Saturday at Toyota Field. Should SAFC win or tie that match, they would finish second in the Mountain Division and host a first-round playoff game in San Antonio.

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (Kortne Ford) 30’

ATX: Yellow Card (Sonny Guadarrama) 30’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Connor Maloney) 65’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jasser Khmiri) 86’

ATX: Yellow Card (Elliot Panicco) 90’

Attendance: 6,516

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Kortne Ford, Jasser Khmiri, Mitch Taintor; M: Connor Maloney, Mohammed Abu, Jose Gallegos, Marcus Epps, PC (c); F: Nathan, Justin Dhillon (Santiago Patino 56’)

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Joaquin Varela, Sam Gleadle, Mathieu Deplagne, Cam Lindley, Chris Lema

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC earned a home point with a 0-0 draw vs. rivals Austin Bold FC tonight…the result marks the first scoreless draw for SAFC this season, and first overall in the regular season since 8/12/20 at FC Tulsa
• SAFC goalkeeper Matthew Cardone kept his seventh clean sheet of the season, making three saves in the process…Cardone has now made 94 saves on the season, tying his own SAFC season record which he originally recorded in 2019
• SAFC forward Nathan recorded four shots on the night…his four shots take him to 69 on the season, setting a new SAFC record for shots in a single campaign…former SAFC midfielder Rafa Castillo recorded 67 shots in the 2016 season…in addition, Nathan’s 31 shots on target are also a new record for SAFC surpassing Castillo who recorded 29 in 2016
• SAFC defender Kortne Ford was named the SWBC Man of the Match after winning 83.3 percent of his aerial duels and adding two tackles and four clearances while helping keep the shutout

San Antonio FC (13-8-9) clinched a spot in the USL Championship playoffs on Wednesday night for the second consecutive season. Despite falling 2-4 in New Mexico, SAFC secured its spot in the postseason after Austin Bold FC lost on the road to El Paso Locomotive.

“It’s the first time in SAFC history to go to playoffs in back to back seasons,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We are incredibly proud of that achievement. It’s difficult playing in the strongest division in the league. I am extremely proud of the collective.”

New Mexico took the lead early after scoring a rebound from a fantastic Matthew Cardone save, however SAFC would equalize in the 32nd minute through a Nathan penalty. The goal was Nathan’s 11th of the season, which ties the all-time single season record for SAFC originally set by Ever Guzman in 2018. SAFC then took the lead after a a wonderful set piece from Ollie Wright found Joaquin Varela who scored his second attempt after forcing a save with the first.

The referee handed out 17 cards in the match, including a second yellow card to Wright in the 58th minute, forcing San Antonio to play a man down for the remainder of the game. With their advantage, New Mexico pressed and found three unanswered goals to seal the 4-2 victory at home.

Despite the loss, SAFC earned its third playoff berth in club history. SAFC has two matches remaining at home against Austin Bold FC and Colorado Springs Switchbacks respectively. The club controls its own destiny as it looks to lock up second place in the decision and a first-round home playoff match.

Scoring Summary:

NMU: 0-1, IIija Ilic 12’

SAFC: 1-1, Nathan (penalty) 32’

SAFC: 2-1, Joaquin Varela 35’

NMU: 2-2, Chris Wehan 66’

NMU: 2-3, Andrew Tinari 78’

NMU: 2-4, Chris Wehan (Josh Suggs assist) 89’

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (PC) 9’

NMU: Yellow Card (Rashid Tetteh) 21’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Nathan) 26’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jose Gallegos) 28’

NMU: Yellow Card (Josh Suggs) 31’

NMU: Yellow Card (Austin Yearwood) 33’

NMU: Yellow Card (Kalen Ryden) 38’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Joaquin Varela) 41’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Ollie Wright) 47’

NMU: Yellow Card (Troy Lesene) 57’

SAFC: Red Card (Ollie Wright) 58’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Alen Marcina) 68’

NMU: Yellow Card (JP Guzman) 72’

NMU Yellow Card (Alex Tambakis) 82’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Kortne Ford) 86’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mathieu Deplagne) 90’

Attendance: 5,593

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Mathieu Deplagne, Joaquin Varela, Kortne Ford, M: PC (c) (Santiago Patino 80’), Sam Gleadle, Marcus Epps, Jose Gallegos, Connor Maloney; F: Nathan (Cam Lindley 67’), Ollie Wright

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Roman Holt, Chris Lema

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC clinched its third ever playoff berth in club history and second in as many seasons
• SAFC finished the season with a 7-5-5 road record, marking the second-highest road wins in a single season for SAFC
• SAFC forward Nathan scored his 11th goal of the season, tying the single-season scoring record in club history…Nathan’s 11 goals equal Ever Guzman’s tally from the 2018 season
• SAFC defender Joaquin Varela scored his second goal of the season, both coming off a set piece…the defender also added three shots and two on target in the match

San Antonio FC (13-8-9) clinched a spot in the USL Championship playoffs on Wednesday night for the second consecutive season. Despite falling 2-4 in New Mexico, SAFC secured its spot in the postseason after Austin Bold FC lost on the road to El Paso Locomotive.

“It’s the first time in SAFC history to go to playoffs in back to back seasons,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We are incredibly proud of that achievement. It’s difficult playing in the strongest division in the league. I am extremely proud of the collective.”

New Mexico took the lead early after scoring a rebound from a fantastic Matthew Cardone save, however SAFC would equalize in the 32nd minute through a Nathan penalty. The goal was Nathan’s 11th of the season, which ties the all-time single season record for SAFC originally set by Ever Guzman in 2018. SAFC then took the lead after a a wonderful set piece from Ollie Wright found Joaquin Varela who scored his second attempt after forcing a save with the first.

The referee handed out 17 cards in the match, including a second yellow card to Wright in the 58th minute, forcing San Antonio to play a man down for the remainder of the game. With their advantage, New Mexico pressed and found three unanswered goals to seal the 4-2 victory at home.

Despite the loss, SAFC earned its third playoff berth in club history. SAFC has two matches remaining at home against Austin Bold FC and Colorado Springs Switchbacks respectively. The club controls its own destiny as it looks to lock up second place in the decision and a first-round home playoff match.

Scoring Summary:

NMU: 0-1, IIija Ilic 12’

SAFC: 1-1, Nathan (penalty) 32’

SAFC: 2-1, Joaquin Varela 35’

NMU: 2-2, Chris Wehan 66’

NMU: 2-3, Andrew Tinari 78’

NMU: 2-4, Chris Wehan (Josh Suggs assist) 89’

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (PC) 9’

NMU: Yellow Card (Rashid Tetteh) 21’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Nathan) 26’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jose Gallegos) 28’

NMU: Yellow Card (Josh Suggs) 31’

NMU: Yellow Card (Austin Yearwood) 33’

NMU: Yellow Card (Kalen Ryden) 38’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Joaquin Varela) 41’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Ollie Wright) 47’

NMU: Yellow Card (Troy Lesene) 57’

SAFC: Red Card (Ollie Wright) 58’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Alen Marcina) 68’

NMU: Yellow Card (JP Guzman) 72’

NMU Yellow Card (Alex Tambakis) 82’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Kortne Ford) 86’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mathieu Deplagne) 90’

Attendance: 5,593

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Mathieu Deplagne, Joaquin Varela, Kortne Ford, M: PC (c) (Santiago Patino 80’), Sam Gleadle, Marcus Epps, Jose Gallegos, Connor Maloney; F: Nathan (Cam Lindley 67’), Ollie Wright

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Roman Holt, Chris Lema

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC clinched its third ever playoff berth in club history and second in as many seasons
• SAFC finished the season with a 7-5-5 road record, marking the second-highest road wins in a single season for SAFC
• SAFC forward Nathan scored his 11th goal of the season, tying the single-season scoring record in club history…Nathan’s 11 goals equal Ever Guzman’s tally from the 2018 season
• SAFC defender Joaquin Varela scored his second goal of the season, both coming off a set piece…the defender also added three shots and two on target in the match

San Antonio FC (13-7-9) finished Saturday’s match vs. FC Tulsa (12-12-4) at Toyota Field with a 1-1 draw after a second-half goal from Jose Gallegos earned the point for the home side.

“I am incredibly proud of the collective and their resilient behaviors,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We’ve preached it all year and they continue to demonstrate it game after game. I thought from start to finish, we were the aggressors with and without the ball and we created more than enough opportunities to win the game. They scored a beautiful goal…but none the less we did more than enough to get the three points, but I’m proud of the group tonight.”

Despite another fast start for San Antonio, it was FC Tulsa that would open the scoring on the evening. A loose ball in midfield was picked up by Rodrigo da Costa and the veteran curled a left-footed shot into the upper corner past the diving Matthew Cardone to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. SAFC got back into the game quickly, going close a number of times in the first 45 minutes, however Tulsa would enter halftime with the valuable road lead.

After starting the second-half on the front foot, SAFC would find the equalizer in the 57th minute after Jose Gallegos curled a ball over the FC Tulsa keeper into the side netting. The goal was Gallegos’ sixth on the season and second in as many matches. The Alamo City club was the closest to finding the winner after shots from Nathan, Justin Dhillon, and Marcus Epps all almost found the back of the net. In the end, the final whistle blew and SAFC would share the points with their former Western Conference rivals.

Following tonight’s home match, SAFC will travel to New Mexico to face New Mexico United on Wednesday in the club’s final road match of the season. San Antonio will look to earn a playoff spot with a result on the road in midweek.

Scoring Summary:

TUL: 0-1, Rodrigo da Costa 27’

SAFC: 1-1, Jose Gallegos 57’

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (Connor Maloney) 25’

TUL: Yellow Card (Kembo Kibato) 45’

TUL: Yellow Card (Marlon Santos) 59’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Alen Marcina) 66’

TUL: Yellow Card (Raphael Ayagwa) 87’

Attendance: 5,090

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Jasser Khmiri, Mathieu Deplagne, Kortne Ford; M: Sam Gleadle (Chris Lema 83’), Mohammed Abu, Jose Gallegos, Connor Maloney (c) (Joaquin Varela 83’), Marcus Epps; F: Justin Dhillon, Nathan

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Axel Sjoberg, Roman Holt, Cam Lindley, Ollie Wright

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC tied FC Tulsa at home to take their record against the Eastern Conference in 2021 to 4-0-2 and to 4-0-3 all-time…SAFC now has a 6-3-5 record at Toyota Field this season
• SAFC midfielder Jose Gallegos scored his sixth goal of the season and his second in as many matches…the 20-year-old was named the SWBC Man of the Match after he added four shots and one key pass…his six goals continue to be a career-high for him in a single season
• SAFC midfielder Marcus Epps recorded five key passes on the night for the third time in 2021…ties his season-high for key passes, and his second straight game with five…Epps ranks second on the club with 46 key passes in 2021
• With the draw, SAFC is one step closer to clinching a playoff berth…a win in New Mexico on Wednesday would be enough to clinch the third playoff berth in club history

 

San Antonio FC (13-7-9) finished Saturday’s match vs. FC Tulsa (12-12-4) at Toyota Field with a 1-1 draw after a second-half goal from Jose Gallegos earned the point for the home side.

“I am incredibly proud of the collective and their resilient behaviors,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We’ve preached it all year and they continue to demonstrate it game after game. I thought from start to finish, we were the aggressors with and without the ball and we created more than enough opportunities to win the game. They scored a beautiful goal…but none the less we did more than enough to get the three points, but I’m proud of the group tonight.”

Despite another fast start for San Antonio, it was FC Tulsa that would open the scoring on the evening. A loose ball in midfield was picked up by Rodrigo da Costa and the veteran curled a left-footed shot into the upper corner past the diving Matthew Cardone to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. SAFC got back into the game quickly, going close a number of times in the first 45 minutes, however Tulsa would enter halftime with the valuable road lead.

After starting the second-half on the front foot, SAFC would find the equalizer in the 57th minute after Jose Gallegos curled a ball over the FC Tulsa keeper into the side netting. The goal was Gallegos’ sixth on the season and second in as many matches. The Alamo City club was the closest to finding the winner after shots from Nathan, Justin Dhillon, and Marcus Epps all almost found the back of the net. In the end, the final whistle blew and SAFC would share the points with their former Western Conference rivals.

Following tonight’s home match, SAFC will travel to New Mexico to face New Mexico United on Wednesday in the club’s final road match of the season. San Antonio will look to earn a playoff spot with a result on the road in midweek.

Scoring Summary:

TUL: 0-1, Rodrigo da Costa 27’

SAFC: 1-1, Jose Gallegos 57’

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (Connor Maloney) 25’

TUL: Yellow Card (Kembo Kibato) 45’

TUL: Yellow Card (Marlon Santos) 59’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Alen Marcina) 66’

TUL: Yellow Card (Raphael Ayagwa) 87’

Attendance: 5,090

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Jasser Khmiri, Mathieu Deplagne, Kortne Ford; M: Sam Gleadle (Chris Lema 83’), Mohammed Abu, Jose Gallegos, Connor Maloney (c) (Joaquin Varela 83’), Marcus Epps; F: Justin Dhillon, Nathan

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Axel Sjoberg, Roman Holt, Cam Lindley, Ollie Wright

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC tied FC Tulsa at home to take their record against the Eastern Conference in 2021 to 4-0-2 and to 4-0-3 all-time…SAFC now has a 6-3-5 record at Toyota Field this season
• SAFC midfielder Jose Gallegos scored his sixth goal of the season and his second in as many matches…the 20-year-old was named the SWBC Man of the Match after he added four shots and one key pass…his six goals continue to be a career-high for him in a single season
• SAFC midfielder Marcus Epps recorded five key passes on the night for the third time in 2021…ties his season-high for key passes, and his second straight game with five…Epps ranks second on the club with 46 key passes in 2021
• With the draw, SAFC is one step closer to clinching a playoff berth…a win in New Mexico on Wednesday would be enough to clinch the third playoff berth in club history

 

San Antonio FC forward Nathan was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week after his two-goal performance in the 4-2 San Antonio win over Memphis 901 FC last Sunday.

Additionally, SAFC midfielder Marcus Epps was named to the Team of the Week Bench after recording two assists in the win.

Along with his two goals, Nathan added five shots and three key passes en route to being named SWBC Man of the Match on Sunday. His brace was his fourth of the season – the most by any SAFC player in club history. In addition, Nathan is now just the third player for San Antonio all-time to hit double-digit goals with his 10 being one off the record set by Ever Guzman in 2018.

Epps is just the second SAFC player in 2021 to record two assists in a single match (also, Jose Gallegos). His four assists this season are the most on the club.

The full USL Championship Team of the Week:

GK – Danny Vitiello, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

D – Emrah Klimenta, Oakland Roots SC

D – Gaoussou Samake, Loudoun United FC

D – Mikey Lopez, Birmingham Legion FC

M – Alejandro Guido, San Diego Loyal SC

M – Jake Davis, Sporting Kansas City II

M – Paolo DelPiccolo, Louisville City FC

M – Jake Areman, Charlotte Independence

F – Samuel Adeniran, Tacoma Defiance

F – Nathan Fogaca, San Antonio FC:

F – Cameron Lancaster, Louisville City FC

Bench: Christian Herrera (TAC), Eder Borelli (ELP), Leo Fernandes (TBR), Marcus Epps (SA), Kyle Murphy (MEM), Ted Ku-DiPietro (LDN), Sebastian Guenzatti (TBR)

San Antonio FC forward Nathan was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week after his two-goal performance in the 4-2 San Antonio win over Memphis 901 FC last Sunday.

Additionally, SAFC midfielder Marcus Epps was named to the Team of the Week Bench after recording two assists in the win.

Along with his two goals, Nathan added five shots and three key passes en route to being named SWBC Man of the Match on Sunday. His brace was his fourth of the season – the most by any SAFC player in club history. In addition, Nathan is now just the third player for San Antonio all-time to hit double-digit goals with his 10 being one off the record set by Ever Guzman in 2018.

Epps is just the second SAFC player in 2021 to record two assists in a single match (also, Jose Gallegos). His four assists this season are the most on the club.

The full USL Championship Team of the Week:

GK – Danny Vitiello, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

D – Emrah Klimenta, Oakland Roots SC

D – Gaoussou Samake, Loudoun United FC

D – Mikey Lopez, Birmingham Legion FC

M – Alejandro Guido, San Diego Loyal SC

M – Jake Davis, Sporting Kansas City II

M – Paolo DelPiccolo, Louisville City FC

M – Jake Areman, Charlotte Independence

F – Samuel Adeniran, Tacoma Defiance

F – Nathan Fogaca, San Antonio FC:

F – Cameron Lancaster, Louisville City FC

Bench: Christian Herrera (TAC), Eder Borelli (ELP), Leo Fernandes (TBR), Marcus Epps (SA), Kyle Murphy (MEM), Ted Ku-DiPietro (LDN), Sebastian Guenzatti (TBR)

San Antonio FC (13-7-8) scored their highest goal tally of the season, defeating Memphis 901 FC (10-9-8) 4-2 on Sunday at Toyota Field. Two goals from Nathan and additional goals from Justin Dhillon and Jose Gallegos were more than enough for all three points against the Eastern Conference opponents.

“I’m proud of the guys for demonstrating attacking resilience,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “If you look at the first 15 minutes, we were unfortunate not to be up by multiple goals. Then to concede, we needed to keep working and we deservingly scored one back…I’m just incredibly proud of them to maintain and stay resilient because it’s easy to sometimes doubt yourself and they didn’t.”

San Antonio started hot out of the gates and created a number of chances within the first 20 minutes. The side should have probably taken the lead but forced a couple of saves from Cody Cropper and struck the post twice via Marcus Epps and Gallegos. Against the run of play, it would actually be Memphis who would take the lead. A great pass opened up space for Kyle Murphy who found Michael Salazar for a tap in to take the lead in the 22nd minute.

SAFC would respond quickly however, once again getting back into their attacking groove. In the 30th minute, a great pass from Mitch Taintor found Mathieu Deplagne who’s cut back in turn found Gallegos. The SAFC Pro Academy product then lashed the ball past the diving Cropper to even the score. The teams entered halftime even despite SAFC controlling the first 45 minutes.

The Alamo City club would take advantage of their attacking display with a great second half that saw three goals for the home side. Dhillon gave SAFC the 2-1 lead in the 54th minute with a deflected strike after some great skill from Epps, then the former Sounders forward collected an assist to go with his goal when he played in Nathan who finished in the 66th minute. The Brazilian would complete his SAFC record fourth brace of the season in the 86th with a wonderful solo goal after Epps’ second assist.

Nathan is now just the third player in SAFC history to hit double digit goals in a single season (also, Billy Forbes-2017; Ever Guzman-2018). Nathan added five shots and three key passes in his SWBC Man of the Match performance. SAFC will now host FC Tulsa next Saturday, October 16 at Toyota Field.

Scoring Summary:

901FC: 0-1, Michael Salazar (Kyle Murphy assist) 22’

SAFC: 1-1, Jose Gallegos (Mathieu Deplagne assist) 30’

SAFC: 2-1, Justin Dhillon (Marcus Epps assist) 54’

SAFC: 3-1, Nathan (Justin Dhillon assist) 66’

SAFC: 4-1, Nathan (Marcus Epps assist) 86’

901FC: 4-2, Kadeem Dacres (penalty) 90’

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mathieu Deplagne) 11’

901FC: Yellow Card (Michael Salazar) 13’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Nathan) 44’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jasser Khmiri) 45’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mitch Taintor) 51’

901FC: Yellow Card (Skylar Thomas) 73’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Matt Cardone) 82’

SAFC: Red Card (Jasser Khmiri) 90’

Attendance: 5,005

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Jasser Khmiri, Mitch Taintor, Kortne Ford (Joaquin Varela 90’), M: Mathieu Deplagne (Same Gleadle 68’), Mohammed Abu, Jose Gallegos (Ollie Wright 81’), Connor Maloney (c) (Chris Lema 90’), Marcus Epps; F: Justin Dhillon (Cam Lindley 68’), Nathan

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Axel Sjoberg

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC defeated Memphis 901 FC in the first meeting between the two sides in club history…SAFC is now 4-0-1 against Eastern Conference teams in 2021, and are 4-0-2 against the East all-time
• SAFC scored four goals for the first time this season and the ninth time in team history in regular season matches…SAFC has scored three goals six times in 2021 in single matches prior to tonight, and the all-time single game SAFC record for goals is five which came on 8/24/19 vs. New Mexico
• Forward Nathan was named the SWBC Man of the Match after scoring two goals and adding five shots and three key passes…marks his first goals since 9/4 vs. PIT and his fourth brace on the season…his four braces are the most in SAFC history, and he currently leads the team with 10 goals…becomes just the third player all-time in SAFC history to notch 10 goals in a season
• SAFC forward Justin Dhillon recorded a goal and an assist in the match, marking his third consecutive match with either a goal or an assist…his seven goals are good for second on the club
• SAFC midfielder Jose Gallegos scored his fifth goal of the season and his first since 9/15 at Red Bulls II…the 20-year-old added three chances created and five successful dribbles…his 87 successful dribbles are the most in the USL Championship
• SAFC defender Sam Gleadle made his return after missing the last nine matches with a lower body injury…Gleadle recorded two tackles in 22 minutes as a second-half substitute
• SAFC midfielder Mohammed Abu recorded a team-high 88.9 percent passing accuracy to go with team highs in tackles (three), interceptions (four) and possessions gained (19)

San Antonio FC (13-7-8) scored their highest goal tally of the season, defeating Memphis 901 FC (10-9-8) 4-2 on Sunday at Toyota Field. Two goals from Nathan and additional goals from Justin Dhillon and Jose Gallegos were more than enough for all three points against the Eastern Conference opponents.

“I’m proud of the guys for demonstrating attacking resilience,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “If you look at the first 15 minutes, we were unfortunate not to be up by multiple goals. Then to concede, we needed to keep working and we deservingly scored one back…I’m just incredibly proud of them to maintain and stay resilient because it’s easy to sometimes doubt yourself and they didn’t.”

San Antonio started hot out of the gates and created a number of chances within the first 20 minutes. The side should have probably taken the lead but forced a couple of saves from Cody Cropper and struck the post twice via Marcus Epps and Gallegos. Against the run of play, it would actually be Memphis who would take the lead. A great pass opened up space for Kyle Murphy who found Michael Salazar for a tap in to take the lead in the 22nd minute.

SAFC would respond quickly however, once again getting back into their attacking groove. In the 30th minute, a great pass from Mitch Taintor found Mathieu Deplagne who’s cut back in turn found Gallegos. The SAFC Pro Academy product then lashed the ball past the diving Cropper to even the score. The teams entered halftime even despite SAFC controlling the first 45 minutes.

The Alamo City club would take advantage of their attacking display with a great second half that saw three goals for the home side. Dhillon gave SAFC the 2-1 lead in the 54th minute with a deflected strike after some great skill from Epps, then the former Sounders forward collected an assist to go with his goal when he played in Nathan who finished in the 66th minute. The Brazilian would complete his SAFC record fourth brace of the season in the 86th with a wonderful solo goal after Epps’ second assist.

Nathan is now just the third player in SAFC history to hit double digit goals in a single season (also, Billy Forbes-2017; Ever Guzman-2018). Nathan added five shots and three key passes in his SWBC Man of the Match performance. SAFC will now host FC Tulsa next Saturday, October 16 at Toyota Field.

Scoring Summary:

901FC: 0-1, Michael Salazar (Kyle Murphy assist) 22’

SAFC: 1-1, Jose Gallegos (Mathieu Deplagne assist) 30’

SAFC: 2-1, Justin Dhillon (Marcus Epps assist) 54’

SAFC: 3-1, Nathan (Justin Dhillon assist) 66’

SAFC: 4-1, Nathan (Marcus Epps assist) 86’

901FC: 4-2, Kadeem Dacres (penalty) 90’

Disciplinary Summary:

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mathieu Deplagne) 11’

901FC: Yellow Card (Michael Salazar) 13’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Nathan) 44’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jasser Khmiri) 45’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mitch Taintor) 51’

901FC: Yellow Card (Skylar Thomas) 73’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Matt Cardone) 82’

SAFC: Red Card (Jasser Khmiri) 90’

Attendance: 5,005

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Jasser Khmiri, Mitch Taintor, Kortne Ford (Joaquin Varela 90’), M: Mathieu Deplagne (Same Gleadle 68’), Mohammed Abu, Jose Gallegos (Ollie Wright 81’), Connor Maloney (c) (Chris Lema 90’), Marcus Epps; F: Justin Dhillon (Cam Lindley 68’), Nathan

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Axel Sjoberg

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC defeated Memphis 901 FC in the first meeting between the two sides in club history…SAFC is now 4-0-1 against Eastern Conference teams in 2021, and are 4-0-2 against the East all-time
• SAFC scored four goals for the first time this season and the ninth time in team history in regular season matches…SAFC has scored three goals six times in 2021 in single matches prior to tonight, and the all-time single game SAFC record for goals is five which came on 8/24/19 vs. New Mexico
• Forward Nathan was named the SWBC Man of the Match after scoring two goals and adding five shots and three key passes…marks his first goals since 9/4 vs. PIT and his fourth brace on the season…his four braces are the most in SAFC history, and he currently leads the team with 10 goals…becomes just the third player all-time in SAFC history to notch 10 goals in a season
• SAFC forward Justin Dhillon recorded a goal and an assist in the match, marking his third consecutive match with either a goal or an assist…his seven goals are good for second on the club
• SAFC midfielder Jose Gallegos scored his fifth goal of the season and his first since 9/15 at Red Bulls II…the 20-year-old added three chances created and five successful dribbles…his 87 successful dribbles are the most in the USL Championship
• SAFC defender Sam Gleadle made his return after missing the last nine matches with a lower body injury…Gleadle recorded two tackles in 22 minutes as a second-half substitute
• SAFC midfielder Mohammed Abu recorded a team-high 88.9 percent passing accuracy to go with team highs in tackles (three), interceptions (four) and possessions gained (19)

San Antonio FC (12-7-8) scored late in stoppage time to earn a road point against El Paso Locomotive FC (14-2-10) in a six-goal thriller Wednesday night. The point gives SAFC four from their recent two-match road trip.

“It was a tale of two halves,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “In the first half our pressing actions were fantastic. We deserved those two goals and could have got an additional one, but the second half we stopped pressing and the game turned in favor of El Paso. Theres a reason they are one of the best teams. They played well the second half, but at the same time I’m proud of the guys who continue to be resilient to go get the equalizer in stoppage time.”

SAFC started the game quickly when Justin Dhillon hit the crossbar within the first five minutes. SAFC continued to press for the opener and were rewarded when Dhillon capitalized on a loose ball in the box to slot home. SAFC doubled its lead in similar fashion after Mathieu Deplagne put away a rebound after a Marcus Epps header came back off the post. San Antonio reached halftime on top and looking for its fifth straight road win.

The second half however would be a different story. El Paso made changes at the break and immediately pushed to get back into the game. The Locos were able to score three second half goals to take the lead and put themselves in position for an impressive comeback victory. However, late in stoppage time defender Mitch Taintor found Kortne Ford with a long ball and the on-loan defender powered it into the goal to tie the game and earn the road point.

San Antonio is now unbeaten in its last five road matches, collecting 13 points in those games. SAFC will return home this Sunday to face Memphis 901 FC at Toyota Field at 7:30 p.m.

Scoring Summary:

SAFC: 1-0, Justin Dhillon 10’

SAFC: 2-0, Mathieu Deplagne 27’

ELP: 2-1, Macauley King (Dylan Mares assist) 56’

ELP: 2-2, Nick Ross 73’

ELP: 2-3, Diego Luna 85’

SAFC: 3-3, Kortne Ford (Mitchell Taintor assist) 90’

Disciplinary Summary:

ELP: Yellow Card (Yuma) 42’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Kortne Ford) 45’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mathieu Deplagne) 62’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Nathan) 82’

Attendance: 5,250

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Jasser Khmiri (Axel Sjoberg 45’), Mitch Taintor, Kortne Ford, M: Mathieu Deplagne (Chris Lema 67’), Mohammed Abu (Shandon Hopeau 87’), Jose Gallegos, Connor Maloney (c); F: Marcus Epps, Justin Dhillon (Cam Lindley 56’), Nathan

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Joaquin Varela

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC extended its road unbeaten streak to five matches after the draw in El Paso…SAFC are now 4-0-1 in last five road games…club is now 1-2-1 all-time in El Paso
• SAFC midfielder Mohammed Abu was named the SWBC Man of the Match after he recorded an 82.4 percent passing accuracy in the game to go with three interceptions and seven possessions gained
• Tonight marked the sixth game that San Antonio has scored at least three goals in a match in 2021…the game was also the first six-goal match for SAFC this season
• SAFC forward Justin Dhillon scored the opener for SAFC to go with three shots…the goal is his sixth which is tied for second on the club…Dhillon now has an assist and goal in the recent two match road trip
• SAFC defender Kortne Ford scored his third goal of the season…Ford also added two tackles four clearances and four interceptions…defender Mitch Taintor added his first assist with SAFC and second on the season overall
• SAFC midfielder Mathieu Deplagne scored his first goal for the club…also added on key pass on the night

San Antonio FC (12-7-8) scored late in stoppage time to earn a road point against El Paso Locomotive FC (14-2-10) in a six-goal thriller Wednesday night. The point gives SAFC four from their recent two-match road trip.

“It was a tale of two halves,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “In the first half our pressing actions were fantastic. We deserved those two goals and could have got an additional one, but the second half we stopped pressing and the game turned in favor of El Paso. Theres a reason they are one of the best teams. They played well the second half, but at the same time I’m proud of the guys who continue to be resilient to go get the equalizer in stoppage time.”

SAFC started the game quickly when Justin Dhillon hit the crossbar within the first five minutes. SAFC continued to press for the opener and were rewarded when Dhillon capitalized on a loose ball in the box to slot home. SAFC doubled its lead in similar fashion after Mathieu Deplagne put away a rebound after a Marcus Epps header came back off the post. San Antonio reached halftime on top and looking for its fifth straight road win.

The second half however would be a different story. El Paso made changes at the break and immediately pushed to get back into the game. The Locos were able to score three second half goals to take the lead and put themselves in position for an impressive comeback victory. However, late in stoppage time defender Mitch Taintor found Kortne Ford with a long ball and the on-loan defender powered it into the goal to tie the game and earn the road point.

San Antonio is now unbeaten in its last five road matches, collecting 13 points in those games. SAFC will return home this Sunday to face Memphis 901 FC at Toyota Field at 7:30 p.m.

Scoring Summary:

SAFC: 1-0, Justin Dhillon 10’

SAFC: 2-0, Mathieu Deplagne 27’

ELP: 2-1, Macauley King (Dylan Mares assist) 56’

ELP: 2-2, Nick Ross 73’

ELP: 2-3, Diego Luna 85’

SAFC: 3-3, Kortne Ford (Mitchell Taintor assist) 90’

Disciplinary Summary:

ELP: Yellow Card (Yuma) 42’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Kortne Ford) 45’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mathieu Deplagne) 62’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Nathan) 82’

Attendance: 5,250

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Jasser Khmiri (Axel Sjoberg 45’), Mitch Taintor, Kortne Ford, M: Mathieu Deplagne (Chris Lema 67’), Mohammed Abu (Shandon Hopeau 87’), Jose Gallegos, Connor Maloney (c); F: Marcus Epps, Justin Dhillon (Cam Lindley 56’), Nathan

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Joaquin Varela

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC extended its road unbeaten streak to five matches after the draw in El Paso…SAFC are now 4-0-1 in last five road games…club is now 1-2-1 all-time in El Paso
• SAFC midfielder Mohammed Abu was named the SWBC Man of the Match after he recorded an 82.4 percent passing accuracy in the game to go with three interceptions and seven possessions gained
• Tonight marked the sixth game that San Antonio has scored at least three goals in a match in 2021…the game was also the first six-goal match for SAFC this season
• SAFC forward Justin Dhillon scored the opener for SAFC to go with three shots…the goal is his sixth which is tied for second on the club…Dhillon now has an assist and goal in the recent two match road trip
• SAFC defender Kortne Ford scored his third goal of the season…Ford also added two tackles four clearances and four interceptions…defender Mitch Taintor added his first assist with SAFC and second on the season overall
• SAFC midfielder Mathieu Deplagne scored his first goal for the club…also added on key pass on the night

San Antonio FC (12-7-7) earned its fourth straight road win, defeating OKC Energy FC (8-9-7) 1-0 on Sunday night. A Marcus Epps goal and the club’s sixth clean sheet on the season helped seal the three points for the Alamo City side.

“I’m proud of the guys,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “This is not an easy place to play. The guys dug deep and created a number of opportunities. We have to be better in our final product…but nonetheless we achieved the result that we sought after.”

SAFC started the game well and dominated the first 45 minutes, creating a number of chances in the final third. Good crosses from Connor Maloney were almost put away by Epps who nearly scored the opener more than once. Despite the frenzied attack, SAFC and OKC would enter halftime with the score locked at zero.

The second half picked up where the first left off with SAFC coming close once again through Jose Gallegos and Justin Dhillon. It was in the 66th minute however when San Antonio would finally break the deadlock. A wonderful, flicked pass from Dhillon found Epps in stride and the midfielder dribbled past two players in the box before calmly slotting home for the 1-0 lead. The Energy came close to equalizing in the dying minutes, but the crossbar and a Matthew Cardone save helped keep the shutout and the grab the win.

SAFC will now travel to its penultimate road match of the season, facing El Paso Locomotive this Wednesday. SAFC defeated the Locos 2-1 at home in the last meeting between the two sides as Wednesday’s match marks the fourth and final between the two in the regular season.

Scoring Summary:

SAFC: 1-0, Marcus Epps (Justin Dhillon assist) 66’

Disciplinary Summary:

OKC: Yellow Card (Hiroki Kurimoto) 31’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mitch Taintor) 34’

OKC: Yellow Card (Lamar Batista) 54’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jose Gallegos) 80’

OKC: Yellow Card (Villyan Bijev) 86’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Shandon Hopeau) 90’

Attendance: 1,828

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Kortne Ford, Mitch Taintor, Jasser Khmiri; M: Mathieu Deplagne (Chris Lema 70’), Mohammed Abu, PC (c) (Cam Lindley 45’), Connor Maloney; F: Marcus Epps, Jose Gallegos (Shandon Hopeau 90’), Nathan (Justin Dhillon 60’)

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Joaquin Varela, Axel Sjoberg

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC defeated OKC 1-0 taking their record to 6-1-7 all-time against the Energy and 3-0-4 at Taft Stadium…SAFC has now won five straight matches against the Energy, outscoring them 13-1 over the course of those matches
• With the win, SAFC has now compiled a 7-4-3 road record…SAFC has now won its last four matches on the road, and six of their last eight…SAFC is now 29-38-19 all-time on the road
• SAFC midfielder Marcus Epps was named the SWBC Man of the Match…Epps led the team with a goal, five shots and three shots on target in the win…Epps has now recorded either a goal or an assist in six of his last nine matches
• SAFC goalkeeper Matthew Cardone saved 100 percent of shots faced in the win and kept his sixth clean sheet of the season…Cardone’s 79 saves rank fourth in the USL Championship

San Antonio FC (12-7-7) earned its fourth straight road win, defeating OKC Energy FC (8-9-7) 1-0 on Sunday night. A Marcus Epps goal and the club’s sixth clean sheet on the season helped seal the three points for the Alamo City side.

“I’m proud of the guys,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “This is not an easy place to play. The guys dug deep and created a number of opportunities. We have to be better in our final product…but nonetheless we achieved the result that we sought after.”

SAFC started the game well and dominated the first 45 minutes, creating a number of chances in the final third. Good crosses from Connor Maloney were almost put away by Epps who nearly scored the opener more than once. Despite the frenzied attack, SAFC and OKC would enter halftime with the score locked at zero.

The second half picked up where the first left off with SAFC coming close once again through Jose Gallegos and Justin Dhillon. It was in the 66th minute however when San Antonio would finally break the deadlock. A wonderful, flicked pass from Dhillon found Epps in stride and the midfielder dribbled past two players in the box before calmly slotting home for the 1-0 lead. The Energy came close to equalizing in the dying minutes, but the crossbar and a Matthew Cardone save helped keep the shutout and the grab the win.

SAFC will now travel to its penultimate road match of the season, facing El Paso Locomotive this Wednesday. SAFC defeated the Locos 2-1 at home in the last meeting between the two sides as Wednesday’s match marks the fourth and final between the two in the regular season.

Scoring Summary:

SAFC: 1-0, Marcus Epps (Justin Dhillon assist) 66’

Disciplinary Summary:

OKC: Yellow Card (Hiroki Kurimoto) 31’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Mitch Taintor) 34’

OKC: Yellow Card (Lamar Batista) 54’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Jose Gallegos) 80’

OKC: Yellow Card (Villyan Bijev) 86’

SAFC: Yellow Card (Shandon Hopeau) 90’

Attendance: 1,828

SAFC Starting XI: GK: Matthew Cardone; D: Kortne Ford, Mitch Taintor, Jasser Khmiri; M: Mathieu Deplagne (Chris Lema 70’), Mohammed Abu, PC (c) (Cam Lindley 45’), Connor Maloney; F: Marcus Epps, Jose Gallegos (Shandon Hopeau 90’), Nathan (Justin Dhillon 60’)

Substitutions not used: Carlos Mercado, Joaquin Varela, Axel Sjoberg

Postgame Notes:

• SAFC defeated OKC 1-0 taking their record to 6-1-7 all-time against the Energy and 3-0-4 at Taft Stadium…SAFC has now won five straight matches against the Energy, outscoring them 13-1 over the course of those matches
• With the win, SAFC has now compiled a 7-4-3 road record…SAFC has now won its last four matches on the road, and six of their last eight…SAFC is now 29-38-19 all-time on the road
• SAFC midfielder Marcus Epps was named the SWBC Man of the Match…Epps led the team with a goal, five shots and three shots on target in the win…Epps has now recorded either a goal or an assist in six of his last nine matches
• SAFC goalkeeper Matthew Cardone saved 100 percent of shots faced in the win and kept his sixth clean sheet of the season…Cardone’s 79 saves rank fourth in the USL Championship

San Antonio FC has loaned midfielder and SAFC Pro Academy product Leo Torres to Real Monarchs SLC of MLS Next Pro for the 2022 season, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the loan were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are happy for Leo to continue his development in a great organization while competing for consistent minutes,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We wish Leo the best of luck with Real Monarchs this year.”

Torres originally joined the Monarchs on loan to complete the 2021 USL Championship season where he appeared in seven matches and scored two goals. The midfielder appeared in six league matches for SAFC in 2021, playing in 40 minutes and recording an 81.0 percent passing accuracy.

Torres was the first full-time SAFC Pro Academy player to sign with the first team in 2019 and was – at the time – the youngest professional signing in USL Championship history at 15 years, 23 days. Torres originally joined the SAFC Pro Academy ahead of its 2016 inaugural year and was part of the initial squad that the program fielded (birth year 2004).

San Antonio FC has loaned midfielder and SAFC Pro Academy product Leo Torres to Real Monarchs SLC of MLS Next Pro for the 2022 season, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the loan were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are happy for Leo to continue his development in a great organization while competing for consistent minutes,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We wish Leo the best of luck with Real Monarchs this year.”

Torres originally joined the Monarchs on loan to complete the 2021 USL Championship season where he appeared in seven matches and scored two goals. The midfielder appeared in six league matches for SAFC in 2021, playing in 40 minutes and recording an 81.0 percent passing accuracy.

Torres was the first full-time SAFC Pro Academy player to sign with the first team in 2019 and was – at the time – the youngest professional signing in USL Championship history at 15 years, 23 days. Torres originally joined the SAFC Pro Academy ahead of its 2016 inaugural year and was part of the initial squad that the program fielded (birth year 2004).