Victoria, TX – The first game of USW Men's Soccer's road trip to Texas would be against the University of Houston-Victoria (UHV). Houston-Victoria (6-2-3, 3-0-2) came into the day sitting tied for second place in the RRAC standings, while USW (3-3-3, 2-0-3) were in the fifth spot. 
 
The game began with both teams firing shots at one another's net, with USW missing the target in four of their shots within the first twenty-five minutes of the game. The Jaguars of UHV put goalkeeper Graduate Student Aaron Servin to the test early as he had to make two saves within the first two minutes of the game. Houston-Victoria would strike first when Jose Martinez found freshly subbed on Irankunda Bosco in the 29^th minute making it 1-0.
 
The UHV pressure continued, but the Mustang defense was able to hold up after several corners and shots from the Jaguars. 
 
A chance finally came for the Mustangs as Houston-Victoria committed a foul in their own box in the 41^stminute, giving USW a chance to tie it up. Junior Adrian Cuevas stepped to the spot and buried it home, taking us into the half all squared away at one. 
 
Although both offenses continued to pepper shots at each goal in the second half, the score stayed the same. Servin stayed persistent in the net, putting in a strong performance with five saves on the day. The USW defense held its own after losing a man in the 79^th minute, forcing them to play with ten men the rest of the match. Neither side conceded again, leaving the game at a 1-1 draw. 
 
"I was extremely proud on the boy's side," stated Coach Edgar Negrete. "We came out to play, and we got a good result. UHV is a great team, no question about it. We were looking to go for a win, but we got the tie, and the boys played with plenty of heart. I was extremely proud of the effort, and we were able to finish the game with ten men. We need to find a way to win, and we hope to re-focus for a very tough game on Saturday. I was impressed with every player, and I know these boys did everything possible not to let this game go. When the team plays like this, I can't help but be proud. But we have to get away from these ties and look for winning ways again. We rest now and re-group for HT on Saturday."
 
USW Men's Soccer is back with a quick turnaround as they face Huston-Tillotson on Saturday. Continue to follow USW Athletics and USW Men's Soccer on all social media for scores and updates throughout the season.