By Clara Sandoval
The 830 Times
Del Rio head boys soccer coach Tani Canchola has seen his team grow with each game. The team that took the field in the season opener is not the same team that finished the district season. He has seen the Rams grow and are a well-oiled machine that hit the postseason rolling on all wheels.
“I feel our Ram soccer players get better and wiser with every game,” Canchola said. “The experience of each game is often invaluable, and we carry that over to the next game. Our players are keen to pick-up on those lessons, and we hope to take full advantage in the playoffs. Our players strive to be the best player they can for the betterment of the team. That is one of the most important concepts we try to instill. Additionally, they feel confident in what they have learned and practiced.”
The lessons that Rams have acquired have helped Del Rio, who has deep postseason aspirations. Del Rio was able get through their first-round opponent with ease as the Rams picked up a 4-0 victory over San Antonio Brennan Friday night at Dub Farris Stadium.
For the third year in a row Del Rio claims the Class 6A Bi-District Championship and moves on to the area round where they will meet Harlingen.
“We are definitely looking to keep it going to the end,” Canchola said. “I am very proud of the players and coaching staff for coming together to produce a playoff team. We hope to continue our run this Tuesday. We also appreciate all the support we have received from our community. Thank you, Del Rio.”
Del Rio had goals from familiar faces and are no strangers to letting the ball sail to the back of the goal. Peñaloza has been the Rams scoring machine during district play with 21 goals on the season and the postseason did very little to slow him down as he added two goals against the Bears. Cesar Piña assisted Peñaloza on one of his goals.
The Rams also had goals from Josue Fernandez, and Ely Losoya rounded out Del Rio’s offense.
Del Rio now has their eyes set on their Class 6A Area Championship game against Harlingen who also had an easy time. The Cardinals took down Edinburg Economedes 5-1 in their bi-district match up and led 3-1 by halftime.
Del Rio meets Harligen on Tuesday at 6 p.m. in Laredo at the Bill Johnson Student Activity Complex with a trip to the third round on the line.
