UTSA’s eighth match up with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte ended in a disappointing no-score draw on Sunday at the Transamerica Field.
The ‘Runners (6-6-3, 1-4-2 AAC) and the 49ers (1-7-6, 0-2-4 AAC) are now in a must-win position as they continue to drop lower in the American Athletic Conference standings, with UTSA sitting at eight and the University of North Carolina at 10.
The 49ers’ strategy of staying in and near the Roadrunner’s box nearly worked for them, as they did get a goal but was called offsides. During the game, kick and throw-ins near the goal caused UTSA and the 49ers to scramble and push each other in an attempt to score.
The Roadrunners started with a 3-5-2 formation; however, Charlotte was more coordinated with its 4-3-3 formation. The ‘Runners had a hard time throughout the game, the aggression they’re known for was nowhere to be found as they looked slow. Many opportunities presented themselves throughout the game for both teams to score, though they never found footing to do so.
The first half looked promising as sophomore forward Tyler Coker was substituted for graduate student defender Sabrina Hillyer, UTSA was able to sustain a 54% possession over the ball; however, the situation changed in the second half as Charlotte maintained 61%.
Charlotte’s offense was unified as one when they weaved through the Roadrunner’s defense. The 49ers led in shot attempts in the first half 4-1; however, the Roadrunners would come back with four shot attempts and eventually led with 11.
UTSA will next play Temple College at 12 p.m. Sunday at the Park West Athletics Complex.
