MADISON, Wisc. – Forward Madison FC rallied from an early 2-0 deficit to draw 2-2 against FC Tucson, but was still eliminated from playoff contention Saturday night at Breese Stevens Field.
Charlie Dennis put the visitors ahead early, converting from the penalty spot in the 16th minute after Kevin Rodriguez was fouled in the box.
Rodriguez doubled the lead for Tucson just eight minutes later, beating Madison goalkeeper Phillip Breno with a low shot to make it 2-0 just 24 minutes into the match.
The Flamingos tried to rally in the second half, with Aaron Molloy cutting the deficit in in the 50th minute. He received a pass from Audi Jepson at the top of the box and shot it through traffic to beat Tucson goalkeeper Wallis Lapsley.
Madison tied the match in the third minute of added time, with Ryan Sierakowski getting the final touch of a scramble in the goalmouth.
The Flamingos nearly scored the winner in the fifth minute of added time, but FC Tucson blocked a pair of shots to hold on to a point.
FC Tucson remains in playoff contention, but will need to beat the Richmond Kickers at home next weekend and get some help from other results to qualify for the postseason.
USLLeagueOne.com Player of the Match
Kevin Rodriguez, FC Tucson – Rodriguez scored a goal, drew a penalty and recorded four tackles in a strong all-around performance.
Goal Summary
TUC (16’) – Dennis (penalty kick)
TUC (24’) – Rodriguez, assisted by Dennis
MAD (50’) – Molloy, assisted by Jepson
MAD (90+2’) – Sierakowski, assisted by Tobin