On Friday night at University of Denver Soccer Stadium, Austin FC Academy product Ervin Torres scored his first career professional goal to help Austin FC II to its second away win of the 2024 season. ATXFC II defeated Colorado Rapids 2 2-1, and the team has now avoided regulation defeat in seven consecutive road matches dating back to 2023.
The Verde & Black took an early lead in the 18th minute with a well-constructed goal. Antonio Gomez played Cheick Touré in behind with a clever line-splitting pass, and Touré showed the presence of mind to pick out Bobosi Byaruhanga with a low cross. The Ugandan international's authoritative finish opened his account for the season.
Colorado equalized through Marlon Vargas at the start of the second half, but Vargas turned from hero to villain for his side moments after scoring when he was shown a red card.
It took ATXFC II just under 20 minutes to make their numerical advantage count. The team forced a turnover by pressing high, and after winning the ball, captain Alonso Ramírez found Torres on the edge of the box. The 16-year-old picked out the far post with an excellent right-footed shot from the edge of the area, a goal that would prove to be the match winner.
Goal-Scoring Summary
ATX (0-1) - Bobosi Byaruhanga (assisted by Cheick Touré, Antonio Gomez) 18'
COL (1-1) - Marlon Vargas (unassisted) 50'
ATX (1-2) - Ervin Torres (assisted by Alonso Ramírez) 71'
Match Information
Venue: University of Denver Soccer Stadium (Denver, CO)
Weather: Partly cloudy, 45 degrees
Referee: Benjamin Meyer
Assistant Referee: James Ewer
Assistant Referee: Jacob Herold
Fourth Official: Kevin Lewis
Next Match
Austin FC II will play the fourth away match and seventh match overall of the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro regular season against St. Louis City 2 on Sunday, May 12 at 6:00 p.m. CT at CITYPARK. The match will be available to watch on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
