San Antonio FC rallies twice, settles for chaotic 3-3 draw

Late drama at Toyota Field leaves points on the table despite resilient showing.

San Antonio FC rallies twice, settles for chaotic 3-3 draw
Photo: Photos By Raz/FWRD AXIS News

San Antonio FC refused to fold Saturday night, battling back twice in a wild 3-3 draw against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at Toyota Field.

What happened: Colorado Springs struck first in the 25th minute, applying early pressure that unsettled SAFC.

  • Jorge Hernandez answered in the 34th minute, finishing a well-placed ball from Cristian Parano to level the match.
  • The Switchbacks regained the lead moments after halftime, catching San Antonio off guard.
  • Hernandez delivered again in the 83rd minute, curling a standout equalizer from outside the box to make it 2-2.
  • In stoppage time, Alex Crognale appeared to win it with a long-range strike.
  • But just minutes later, a deflection in San Antonio’s box allowed Colorado Springs to steal a last-gasp equalizer.

Why it matters: San Antonio showed grit and attacking firepower, but defensive lapses cost them a chance at all three points in a match that swung until the final whistle.

The big picture: San Antonio’s ability to respond under pressure stood out, but conceding three goals highlights ongoing defensive inconsistencies.

What they’re saying: Defender Mitchell Taintor acknowledged both sides of the performance: “It took us a little bit to adapt… it’s disappointing letting up three goals, but in the grand scheme of things, we're building in the right direction.”

  • Assistant coach Fredy Herrera emphasized mentality over result: “The result gives us a point, but it's the mentality that we brought… and what we showed to our fans.”

Between the lines: San Antonio’s attack continues to create chances in key moments, but the inability to close out games, even after a stoppage time lead, could become a concern if it persists.

What’s next: SAFC will look to carry its resilience forward when the club travels to face Phoenix Rising FC in Arizona.