RHFA vs. Ballers in the Volt League 2 Semi-Finals
Pics: Catalanoflicks
On Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 5:30 PM, the semi-finals of Volt League 2 unfolded at Matias Almeyda Training Center, featuring fourth-seeded Real Houston FC (RHFA) and the seventh-seeded Ballers. RHFA started strong, taking an early lead in the 10th minute when Saldana fired a shot into the net, putting RHFA ahead 1-0.
The Ballers fought back, creating numerous opportunities and registering 13 shots compared to RHFA's 6, but they struggled to find the back of the net. The turning point came in the 54th minute when J. Torres scored, equalizing the match at 1-1. With both teams unable to secure a win in regulation time, the game headed into a penalty shootout.
The shootout was intense. RHFA’s number 28 shot first, confidently placing the ball in the bottom left corner for a goal. The Ballers’ Gutierrez followed but had his shot brilliantly blocked by RHFA’s goalkeeper, Romero. Next, RHFA’s number 12 stepped up but faced a similar fate, as his shot was also saved. The Ballers missed their next penalty, giving RHFA a chance to extend their lead. Cruz stepped up and shot to the bottom right, scoring to make it 2-1.
As the shootout progressed, the Ballers finally converted their first penalty, leveling the score at 2-2. RHFA responded with another successful shot, but their next attempt flew over the goal, increasing the pressure. In a nail-biting finale, the Ballers took their last shot to win the game. The player calmly placed the ball in the net, sealing a dramatic 4-3 victory for the Ballers and advancing them to the championship match.
