MEMPHIS, Tenn — In their first home game in nearly a month, Memphis 901 FC snagged three points with a 1-0 victory over San Antonio FC.
The win marks Memphis' first against San Antonio in four meetings.
"We knew it was going to be a dig in game", head coach Stephen Glass said. "We told them that beforehand. At halftime, we reiterated that and I think you could see the spirit in the group tonight. The new boys feel it, the fans feel it and the players are delighted."
The game was scoreless until the 31st minute when Samuel Careaga slotted a screamer off a deflected shot from Nighte Pickering. The goal was Careaga's fourth of the season and also the only shot on goal Memphis had all night.
Memphis managed to hold onto their lead thanks to some impressive keeping from this week's new signee in Triston Henry. The 901 FC debutant recorded a clean sheet after stopping six San Antonio shots on goal.
“He did everything that we were hoping," Glass said. "It’s obviously difficult coming into a new stadium and new team. Great performance fitting right into the group. When new boys come in and join, you’re really happy when they get a win and play a huge part in it as well.”
Henry wasn't the only 901 FC debutant in the game with forward Jon Bakero also making his first appearance for Memphis after only being signed on Thursday. Bakero played through 90+6 minutes of the game.
“Jon was amazing," Glass said. "His hold up play was great. He’s playing against three top center backs as well. They've got some top players. He was battered around a little bit but his hold up play was great, bringing people in and he was a threat as well. We’re happy with him. I’m sure he’ll be happy with his part in the win as well.”
Memphis played the game very shorthanded with three players out injured and both Marlon Santos and Abdoulaye Cissoko missing due to red card suspensions.
With the win, 901 FC move to 9-8-4. That sees the lads hold onto No. 4 in the USL Championship Western Conference Standings.
Memphis 901 FC return to AutoZone Park on Saturday, Aug. 3 at 7.30 p.m. against El Paso Locomotive FC who are currently placed last in the West.