RGV Toros Visit Orange County SC to Begin June
Much improved South Texas side poses a tough challenge for the hosts.
Orange County SC players Leonardo, Harry Forrester and others discuss their strategy during a match against New Mexico United. | Photo courtesy of Orange County SC/Liza Rosales
IRVINE, Calif. (May 31, 2019) - Orange County SC earned a point on the road against LA Galaxy II and return home to face Texan side Rio Grande Valley FC Toros.
Fortunes for the two sides have varied, with the Toros surprising teams around the league with a clear identity that has earned them four wins. As a result, they find themselves in 10th place. Off the backs of three successive draws, Orange County is currently in 13th, one of three teams with fifteen points. Both teams are still just a match away from the playoff places in the chaotic Western Conference.
Orange County’s unbeaten run is now at six matches, with the last loss coming against the OKC Energy FC in April. The last two matches were unexpected draws, but OC is still showing signs of finalizing team chemistry as players come in and out of the lineup. One thing is for certain: the players are ready for another dominating performance to see a jump into the playoff places.
The Toros have scored 22 goals at this point, fourth-best in the Western Conference. Further, they have already amassed half of the number of wins that the club earned in 2018. The team was in great form in April, earning 11 out of a possible 15 points, but cooled off in May, taking four out of nine. Still, it is a much stronger side than in the past, one that is quick on the break, so OC must be wary about the opposition’s quality.
Against a team that rarely holds possession, the midfield will be key. Aodhan Quinn is continuing his quality from 2018, dominating possession and dictating the play for OC. Liam Trotter is a similar player, easily capable of creating scoring chances from deep in the midfield.
But against a counter attacking side, defense will be similarly crucial to the team’s success. Fullback Kevin Alston missed last week’s match in Carson, but his return will benefit OCSC with not only his leadership, but his inch-perfect tackling.
The match kicks off at 5:30pm at Championship Soccer Stadium at the Orange County Great Park. The game will also be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States.
Highlights:
Aodhan Quinn is making his play to be OCSC’s top scorer, netting his fifth goal of the campaign last week.
Just 12 matches into 2019, the Toros have scored 22 goals, over 60% of their 2018 full season total.