Austin FC season: One game left after 4-1 loss to LA Galaxy
Young players provided the only spark for the Verde and Black, who will now face Portland at home to close out a playoff-less campaign.
By Ella Cox ·
Austin FC lost 4-1 to the Los Angeles Galaxy on Saturday, a result that leaves the team with just one match remaining in the Major League Soccer season. The defeat at Dignity Health Sports Park cements a final record of 8-15-10, placing the club in 14th position in the Western Conference with 34 points. It marks the third time in four seasons that Austin FC will miss the postseason.
The season has been difficult for the Verde and Black, and the recent schedule offered little chance for redemption. The team played a match on Wednesday, giving players only three days of rest before facing the Galaxy on Saturday. The Galaxy entered the game with a stake in the standings, playing for their own postseason life, while Austin FC competed in a contest with no direct consequence for their final standing.
Despite the heavy loss, several young players stood out. Ervin Torres, Jorge Alastuey, and Micah Burton performed with noticeable effort. Torres scored Austin FC’s lone goal with a bending shot from 22 yards out. He credited Burton for the assist, noting that the trio developed strong chemistry while playing together for Austin FC II. Torres, who was ranked 19th on the MLS 22 Under 22 list released last week, said the group understands each other's roles. "As young players, we especially have to show up and play our best," Torres said.
Interim coach Davy Arnaud stated the club needs to gain experience from the final two games by utilizing younger talents like Torres, Alastuey, Burton, and goalie Damian Las. Arnaud explained that the goal is to learn what these players are capable of. He noted that the club moved on from six players during the summer window to position itself for success in the upcoming winter and next summer. "The goal was to try and set up the club to be successful in the (winter) window and next summer," Arnaud said.
The veteran defense struggled in the match. Ilie Sanchez, who turns 36 in three weeks, was slow and made a poor clearance that led to the Galaxy’s first goal. Sanchez has a $225,000 salary and a 2027 contract option, but his future with the club is uncertain. Mikkel Desler was also beaten frequently on the right side. Arnaud admitted he waited too long to substitute Sanchez, a decision he made because of Sanchez’s passing ability in previous games.
The team will conclude its season on Saturday at home against Portland. The match serves as a final test before the offseason begins. The club will use the remaining game to evaluate its roster before the winter window opens.
A fan in the stands wore a paper bag with the word "Believed" written on it during the broadcast, capturing the mood of the season.
Source: Austin American-Statesman
