[ad_1]
Winless in three league games and on the outside looking in of the Western Conference playoff picture, Austin more than held their own against the current LIGA MX Apertura co-leaders, who are undefeated in four matches with a 3W-0L-1D record.
Alex Ring’s early opener set the tone for the Verde & Black, who managed to extend their lead despite Bukari’s sending-off via Gyasi Zardes. Ali Ávila pulled one back for Pumas before the break after poking in Cleveland’s rebound on a close-range effort from César Huerta.
As Los Auriazules pushed for an equalizer in the second half, an unmarked Driussi headed home Ring’s cross to the far post to set off an emotional celebration both in the stands and on the field. The 28-year-old Designated Player, who had 22g/7a during a career-best 2022 season, hadn’t scored since May 18 in a 3-2 win over Sporting Kansas City.
“He has been [waiting for that goal]”, Wolff said of Driussi. “He knows how important he is to this team and we need him to perform because it only elevates those around him, it only elevates the intensity, the belief, the hunger of the group. He’s so impactful and influential in this group.
“When he’s scoring goals, he starts to elevate to the Seba that we know.”
[ad_2]
