April 11, 2022
In front of a sold-out crowd on Sunday night at Q2 Stadium, Maxi Urruti’s strike in the 58th minute was the difference as Austin FC earned a 1-0 win over Minnesota United FC.
The first half looked similar to the previous meeting between the two sides at Q2 Stadium last season - with Austin controlling possession and Minnesota content to stay compact and limit scoring opportunities. The Verde & Black had 65 percent possession through the opening 45 minutes and out passed the Loons 280 to 137, but each team only registered one shot.
Things began to open up in the second half, with Brad Stuver making a big save to deny Joseph Rosales in the early stages. Soon after, ATXFC got the goal its attacking intent deserved, as Urruti swept home a sweet right-footed volley from Hector Jimenez’s cross.
Urruti nearly doubled the lead and his tally in the 77th minute. Driussi played his fellow Argentine in behind the defense, but his clever chip was cleared off the line by Michael Boxall. Driussi then had an opportunity fall his way moments later, forcing a strong save from Minnesota goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair.
Minnesota’s best chance of the match arrived with five minutes remaining, when Diego Fagundez was well-positioned to stop a goal-bound header from crossing the line. Dani Pereira nearly netted his first career goal in the closing moments, but in the end, the Verde & Black just needed the one goal to walk out as winners.
By Austin FC
