Editor’s note: This article recaps UTEP soccer’s game versus the LA Tech Bulldogs played prior to UTEP’s loss to Florida International.
On Oct. 19, UTEP soccer faced off against LA Tech at University Field. With late–game heroics, the Miners came back to end their four-game losing streak.
As the game approached, both UTEP and the LA Tech Bulldogs found themselves taking up the last spots in Conference USA.
This being UTEP’s first home game in October, they came onto the field in their stylish-clean pink tops to raise breast cancer awareness.
Due to weather conditions in El Paso with vicious lighting and pouring rain, the game was pushed back 30 minutes. The game then started with some rain, but not enough to delay the match further.
The first half proved uneventful as neither team managed to score.
In the latter half of the first part of the match, the Miners were able to fly through the Bulldogs’ defense. LA Tech sophomore goalkeeper Cadence Rutledge was up to the task blocking two shots on goal.
UTEP goalkeeper Tionna Taylor was also tested late into the half but prevailed with a save.
After intermission, early at the 50:17 mark, LA Tech struck first blood with a goal from Kalli Matlock, assisted by Tal Faingezicht.
Needing a tying goal to keep it from getting out of hand, UTEP forward freshman Ana Quintero dribbled past the defense for a much-needed goal at the 65-minute mark.
For the next 20 minutes, defensive intensity would be at its peak seeing amazing defensive plays from both sides, especially from the goalies.
Off a hard foul resulting in a free kick with less than 10 minutes left, junior forward Mina Rodriguez came in clutch to take the lead for the Miners at the 86th minute
UTEP maintained their late-game defensive tenacity and secured a gritty win, snapping a grueling losing streak
The Miners’ next game will be away against conference leader Florida Interantional University (FIU) (10-4, 5-1 C-USA) on Oct. 24 at 9 a.m.
Cameron Mason is a contributor and may be reached at [email protected]
