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The UTRGV Men’s Soccer Team prepares to adapt for the start of the Ohio Valley Conference with an 2-2-1 record in nonconference matches. The Vaqueros have enough experience to develop and adapt to the conference season.
The Vaqueros have played five nonconference games tallying 2 wins against West Florida College (3-2) and University of South Florida (5-0), a tie against Stetson College (1-1) and two losses against Oral Roberts College (2-0) and Air Force Academy (3-1).
Their previous matches have given the Vaqueros the opportunity to understand their footing and to apply these experiences to the remainder of the season.
Head coach Bryheem Hancock said he has a plan for the team’s direction and is expecting the differences in each match to outperform in every aspect.
“Lindenwood, our opponent on Saturday, was expected. But at the same time, nonconference play … I can tell you, almost every team in our conference has switched it up from game to game,” Hancock said. “So, clearly everyone’s trying to get the best information on a group moving forward. Saying that with our group, I think we’ve got [the] answers that we needed.”
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As of press time, Saturday’s results against Lindenwood University are not available.
The Vaqueros will play two more games at home against Houston Christian University Thursday and University of the Incarnate Word Sunday.
Having three games played at home, Hancock said home-field advantage could benefit the Vaqueros.
“We train here every day, so, rest assured,” he said. “It’s a big advantage, because we will have a crowd here that’ll be rooting for us instead of it just being ourselves on the road.”
Hancock said the main goals for the season are to secure the home games and to plan out each one accordingly.
“Our first three games here in conference are at home, and the goal for us is to win all five at home,” he said. “If we want to win the championship, which is our goal, we [have] to take care of home-field advantage first, but that starts on Saturday.”
Sophomore midfielder Diego Rivera said playing at home can make a difference compared to playing on the road. He said home games provide motivation and a sense of community.
“It really affects us to be more motivated to play at home, and we can get the results we want at home when the fans are here,” Rivera said.
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When asked about any obstacles that were present during the past five matches, Hancock replied player injuries were taking a toll on the team. Rivera also added his concern regarding player injuries and how he is currently recovering from one.
Despite the setbacks, Rivera said he still finds ways to build confidence and strength to continue the season.
Senior midfielder Malang Mandiang said despite the losses from Oral Roberts and Airforce having a hard impact on him, he is more confident in the next home games.
“We did not play the way we wanted, we didn’t follow the game plan, so we had a hard time doing the last two games,” Mandiang said. “I can just say to be healthy, ready for the games, to give 100% every time and try to win most of the games that we can.”
