Rio Grande Focused on Offensive Improvement

July 8, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Rio Grande Valley FC Toros News Release

EDINBURG, Texas – Rio Grande Valley FC (7-9-2, 23 pts) eager for their second matchup in four days at New Mexico United (8-3-5, 29 pts). The first match on Wednesday, July 6 resulted in a late stage 1-0 loss due to a penalty conceded, trumping a strong showing possession wise for RGV. The action will be live nationally on ESPN+ .

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HEAD-TO-HEAD (2022 Championship Figures)

Rio Grande Valley FC (18 Games) – 23 goals, 62 shots on target. | 25 goals conceded, 4 clean sheets | Western Conference Standing: 10th place

New Mexico United (16 Games) – 25 goals, 68 shots on target. | 13 goals conceded, 5 clean sheets | Western Conference Standing: 5th place

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2022 Goal Total Tracker: RGV FC

FW- Frank Lopez (4), DF- Robert Coronado (4), MF- Emilio Ycaza (4), FW- Dylan Borczak (2),

DF- Wahab Ackwei (2), FW- Ricky Ruiz (2), FW- Adolfo Hernandez (1), DF- Frank Nodarse (1),

DF- Juan Cabezas (1), FW- Duilio Herrera (1), DF- Luka Malesevic (1)

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Rio Grande were able to maintain rhythm and keep New Mexico at bay for most of the match on July 6 but were unlucky as an 81st minute penalty was conceded by Luka Malesevic, subsequently resulting in the 1-0 loss for the Toros. In 2022 RGV FC has lost or won games by a one goal margin, apart from two draws. This stat is both impressive but troubling as the offensive unit has not managed to break out and impose on opponent back lines as their defensive unit continues to impress weekly as they solidify.

Toros Sporting Director and Head Coach Wilmer Cabrera is conscious on the need to find that offensive rhythm as it comes from within to take those chances; “The players have the motivation in front of them and are conscious that the desire to look for the goal and take chances comes from within. They need to play to win and look to score at any moment available.” It is expected that this second matchup is going to be another physical and defensive battle as both sides fight to climb the standings to secure a playoff bid in the second half of the season.

For single match tickets please visit rgvfc.com/singletickets or the H-E-B Park box office, open weekly from 10am-6pm CST.

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