As the fall air grows crisp, anticipation builds at Huston-Tillotson University as the Rams soccer teams gear up for their last two home doubleheaders of the season. This weekend, the team’s indomitable spirit will be tested as they welcome the North American Stallions and the Xavier Gold Nuggets to the greater Austin area.
Thursday’s showdown promises to be a thrilling affair, as the Rams will kick off against the Stallions at the Round Rock Multipurpose Complex at 1 p.m. This venue might feel like home for HT, as it was a familiar battleground for most of last season’s matches. As fans rally in their Rams gear, fingers crossed for a much-needed victory, all eyes will be on the talented sophomore midfielder Alondra Quiroz. With three goals already under her belt this season, Quiroz is ready to lead her squad and snag some points vital for their postseason aspirations.
As the Rams look to capitalize on the Stallions, they know exactly what they’re up against. Both teams share similar records, struggling in the Red River Athletic Conference and vying for respect on the pitch. The Stallions arrive with a 3-8-2 record, having only managed one win in conference play, while HT stands slightly ahead with a 2-8-1 record. Both teams have shared a proud win over Texas College, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as they clash in this vital match.
MATCH DAY 12
The Contest: North American (3-8-2, 1-7-1 RRAC) at HT Rams (2-8-1, 1-6-1 RRAC)
The Outing: Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024 • 1:00 p.m.
The Pitch: Round Rock Multipurpose Complex • Round Rock, Texas
MATCH DAY 13
The Contest: Xavier (La.) (9-3-1, 8-0-1 RRAC) at HT Rams
The Outing: Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 / 1 p.m.
The Pitch: Onion Creek Soccer Complex
Flipping the calendar to Saturday, the excitement will carry over as the Rams return to the Onion Creek Soccer Complex for what is sure to be a challenging contest against the Xavier Gold Nuggets. It’s Senior Day, a bittersweet occasion that will see the Rams honored and emotionally charged to face a formidable opponent. With Xavier strutting in hot off an undefeated streak of 9-3-1, fans can expect a display of power as the Gold Nuggets boast one of the most potent offenses in the NAIA.
If the Rams thought rattling the Stallions was tough, encountering Xavier will require every ounce of heart and determination. With an impressive average of over four goals per game, the Gold Nuggets carry heavy artillery, led by the outstanding Samira Roper from Heredia, Costa Rica. She leads the RRAC with 14 goals, while her teammate Luci Schroeder rakes in the assists like candy on Halloween. If the Rams want to emerge victorious, they’ll need not a very solid defense.
HT Freshman goalkeeper Juliet Morales-Martinez will undeniably play a key role in ensuring her team stays competitive. With her gloves on and a relentless spirit, she’s ready to fend off the opposition, hoping to replicate her career-high 11 saves from the previous match against Southwest.
As the weekend approaches, basketballs might bounce in the gyms, but on the fields of Huston-Tillotson, hearts will race as soccer action takes center stage. Fans, grab your school paraphernalia and prepare to cheer because the Rams are ready to charge into these crucial matches, aiming for glory in the home stretch of the season.
Both matches are free to attend. Find out more about the Huston-Tillotson athletics department here.
