Austin FC II overcame adversity to earn a penalty shootout win and two points against Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 on Friday night at Parmer Field. The result means that unless Houston Dynamo 2 defeats Tacoma Defiance in regulation this Sunday, Austin will have a chance to clinch a playoff place on MLS NEXT Pro Decision Day.
Austin controlled possession for most of the first half, but were hit with a sucker punch when Vancouver's Eliot Goldthrop scored in the 40th minute. The lead didn't last long though, as CJ Fodrey headed in the equalizer four minutes later. The goal was Fodrey's team-high ninth of the season. The Verde & Black suffered a further setback just before halftime when the referee showed Bobosi Byaruhanga a red card.
Despite being down to 10 men, ATXFC II remained competitive throughout the second half. Rubén Bonachera also saw red in the final minute of stoppage time before the match went to a penalty shootout.
Both teams made their first four attempts before Aaron Cervantes saved Vancouver's fifth attempt. Peter Grogan then buried the decisive spot kick for the Verde & Black.
Goal-Scoring Summary
VAN (0-1) - Eliot Goldthorp (unassisted) 40'
ATX (1-1) - CJ Fodrey (assisted by Jimmy Farkarlun) 44'
Next Match
Austin FC II will play the 14th home match and 28th match overall of its 2024 MLS NEXT Pro regular season against The Town FC on Sunday, October 6 at 3:00 p.m. CT at Parmer Field at St. David's Performance Center. The match will be available to watch on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
