ARLINGTON, Texas - Jimmie Villalobos' first-half goal ensured Chattanooga Red Wolves SC's season got off to the perfect start, as the team picked up a 1-0 win away to North Texas SC on Saturday night at Globe Life Park.
Both keepers were in action early and often, with Chattanooga's Sebastian Mora-Mora and North Texas' Colin Shutler each making a handful of quality stops. The Red Wolves unlocked the home side's defense just after the half-hour mark thanks to a brilliant bit of build-up play.
Ricky Ruiz played a pass into Juan Galindrez, who smartly laid the ball off to an onrushing Villalobos. It was one new arrival setting up another, as Villalobos made no mistake with the finish to put Chattanooga in front.
Despite plenty more quality opportunities for both teams throughout the second half, North Texas was unable to find a way through an organized Red Wolves defensive unit, and the visitors walked away with three points from their season opener.
USLLeagueOne.com Man of the Match
Jose Carrera Garcia, Chattanooga Red Wolves SC - It was an all-action display from the Chattanooga midfielder on his debut for the club. Carrera Garcia completed 86 percent of his passes (the best of any player to play 45 minutes or more), won the most duels of any player with five, completed two dribbles and created one chance on the night.
Goal Summary