Major League Soccer’s Match Balls await warmups before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender RODRIGUES (26) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaPRO Referee’s CHRIS PENSO (center) along with his crew of CHRIS ELLIOTT (left) and EDUARDO JEFF (right) walk to the center spot before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) looks for a teammate during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) pressures Austin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) to a back pass early in the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JULIO CASCANTE (18) controls the ball with his chest during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) crosses the ball with pressure from Austin FC Defender GUILHERME BIRO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) controls the ball near midfield during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) dribbles against Austin FC Midfielder HECTOR JIMENEZ (16) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) dribbles with pressure from Austin FC Midfielder DANIEL PEREIRA (6) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) with a congratulatory hug for San Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) after his goal early in the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO RUBIO (14) battles for the ball with San Jose Earthquakes Defender BRUNO WILSON (4) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) crosses the ball with pressure from Austin FC Defender GUILHERME BIRO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JULIO CASCANTE (18) dribbles away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) pressures Austin FC Defender BRENDAN HINES-IKE (4) into a mistake during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) crosses the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) attempts a shot on goal with pressure from Austin FC Defender BRENDAN HINES-IKE (4) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) battles for the ball with Austin FC Midfielder OWEN WOLFF (33) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) cuts the ball back to his left foot for a shot during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) takes a shot during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder HERNÁN LÓPEZ (23) dejected after missing a shot on goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) crosses the ball with pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender VITOR COSTA (94) looks for his teammates with pressure from Austin FC Defender JULIO CASCANTE (18) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) makes a pass with pressure from Austin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) awaits a corner kick from San Jose during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender RODRIGUES (26) heads the ball against Austin FC Midfielder HECTOR JIMENEZ (16) and Austin FC Defender JULIO CASCANTE (18) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder DANIEL PEREIRA (6) clears the ball from the end line during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward JÁDER OBRIAN (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward JÁDER OBRIAN (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder NIKO TSARKIS (30) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder NIKO TSARKIS (30) passes the ball back with pressure from Austin FC Defender GUILHERME BIRO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) passes with pressure from Austin FC Forward DIEGO RUBIO (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder OWEN WOLFF (33) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder DANIEL PEREIRA (6) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JULIO CASCANTE (18) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender GUILHERME BIRO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward JÁDER OBRIAN (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ŽAN KOLMANIČ (23) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) battle for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ŽAN KOLMANIČ (23) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) battle for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ŽAN KOLMANIČ (23) wins the battle for the ball against San Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender GUILHERME BIRO (29) looks toward the goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ŽAN KOLMANIČ (23) dribbles toward the goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ŽAN KOLMANIČ (23) shoots on goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ETHAN FINLAY (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) and San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) battle for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ETHAN FINLAY (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ETHAN FINLAY (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder OWEN WOLFF (33) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Goalkeeper BRAD STUVER (1) readies himself for a shot from San Jose Earthquakes Forward AMAHL PELLIGRINO (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder HECTOR JIMENEZ (16) clears the ball with his head from in front of the goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, California
PRESS RELEASE: May 25, 2024
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Austin FC
San Jose earns point at home to snap two-game losing streak; Quakes travel to New York on Friday to face NYCFC
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes drew 1-1 with Austin FC on Saturday night at PayPal Park in front of 13,744 fans.
San Jose found the back of the net early when Jeremy Ebobisse finished Cristian Espinoza’s cross in the 10th minute. The visitors then drew level via Brendan Hines-Ike’s header off a set piece right before intermission. Despite both clubs attempting to find the go-ahead goal in the second half with a late blast from Earthquakes midfielder Hernán López hitting the crossbar, the match would end in a draw, snapping a two-game losing streak for San Jose in MLS play.
The Quakes will now prepare for a road match with New York City Football Club on Friday, May 31. Kickoff from Yankee Stadium is set for 4:30 p.m. PT and will bebroadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as on local radio AM 810 The Spread (English) and AM 1370 La Kaliente (Spanish).
NOTES The Quakes are now 2-1-6 against Austin FC in MLS regular-season play and still unbeaten at home (1-0-3). Tonight’s draw snapped a two-game losing streak for San Jose (three in all competitions).San Jose has now led at some point in 11 of 17 games in all competitions (9 of 15 in MLS play).
Jeremy Ebobisse’s fourth goal of the season also tied him with Landon Donovan for third on the all-time club list for goals scored (32). He also netted his fifth time in seven career games against Austin. Cristian Espinoza notched his ninth assist of the season, good for fourth in MLS. It was also his sixth career assist in nine games against Verde. The winger now has 65 career assists in total to extend his club record.
MATCH INFORMATION San Jose Earthquakes 1-1 Austin FC Saturday, May 25, 2024 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif. Weather: 59° Sunny Attendance: 13,744
Match Officials: Referee: Chris Penso AR1: Chris Elliott AR2: Eduardo Jeff 4th Official: Alyssa Nichols VAR: David Barrie AVAR: Jozef Batko
Misconduct Summary: SJ – Bruno Wilson (caution) 41′ SJ – Cristian Espinoza (caution) 43′ ATX – Sebastian Driussi (caution) 48′ SJ – Carlos Akapo (caution) 57′ SJ – Vítor Costa (caution) 64′
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: William Yarbrough; Vítor Costa, Rodrigues, Bruno Wilson, Carlos Akapo; Carlos Gruezo (Niko Tsakiris 56’) , Jackson Yueill (C); Hernán López; Cristian Espinoza, Amahl Pellegrino (Jack Skahan 77’); Jeremy Ebobisse .
Substitutes not used: Jacob Jackson (GK), Tanner Beason, Ousseni Bouda, Preston Judd, Paul Marie, Daniel Munie, Alfredo Morales.
On his reflections pertaining to tonight’s match: “I thought we played with a lot of urgency. I thought the guys were up for the game. We say in the locker room that we want to get PayPal back. We want to make this the place that teams suffer like they did most of last season, and I thought Austin suffered a lot tonight. We had 20-plus shots and created a lot of opportunities. I loved how we played brave to attack, to play forward and get numbers in the box and create chances. That’s a positive. “Defensively I thought in the run of play, we were quite sound. It was great work rate by the 11 players on the field to defend in their mid-block, build pressure, sprint and recover behind the ball when Austin tried to counter. I loved the effort. I thought we let them off the hook. We let them off the hook. We didn’t put away some clear chances, and for maybe three minutes, we’re giving away silly set pieces around our box at the end of the first half. Things that we can avoid. Fouls we can avoid with a little more discipline and a little more control defensively, push them back and not gift them free crosses into our box, and it caught up to us. That was a disappointing few minutes of the game, but when we play with this sense of urgency and this desire to push the game and score and attack, I know we’ll earn points and win more games over the course of time.”
On the Quakes’ attack starting to jell midseason: “[Amahl] Pellegrino’s a really dangerous winger who can score and set up teammates. He’s working really hard. I really love what I’m seeing in terms of his work rate, to be connected to us defensively. We can still even use him more with his runs in behind, but he’ll continue to score goals in this league. I’m really happy that [Jeremy Ebobisse] got a goal tonight. He played with a lot of conviction and energy. His hold-up [play] was excellent, switching fields for us, drawing fouls. Really good connection with Hernán [López] in the press. And then Hernán could’ve had two goals and two assists. It’s him continuing to do his thing. He’s a high-risk player. There are moments where he can lose balls and he and the team needs to know that the risk-reward ratio is a little higher with him, but when he pulls things off, he’s super-dangerous, and we’re really glad to have him. Cristian [Espinoza] does what Cristian does, with volume of crosses. I think he’d like some of those left-footed shots and get them on frame because he hits them with good power. But I think we have a dynamic attack and I think we’ll continue to be dangerous.”
On being unable to sustain the lead: “It’s disappointing. … The margins in this league are so close, from winning, losing, even tying. This is the 11th game in 17 [in all competitions] where we’ve had leads. But this tough moment, which has lasted longer than we’d like, it’s going to make us tough. I’m going to keep working, doing my best, and these guys are going to keep working, and that’s the only way we can turn those leads into points.”
On using the defensive performance tonight as a reference point heading into next Friday’s road game vs. NYCFC: “We allowed six shots, and two on goal. That’s really good for a defensive performance in our league, especially a very good team like Austin who’s doing well. They’re winning games and attacking well. So yes, this is a good standard and reference for us defensively.”
EARTHQUAKES GOALKEEPER WILLIAM YARBROUGH
On his overall thoughts of the game (translated from Spanish): “I think, from my personal point of view, this is the best game that we have had collectively at home. It seemed like we dominated most of the game. We created quite a few goal opportunities, and that is what calms us down a bit. If we continue down that path playing like we did today, we’ll win and we’ll win more than we’ll lose. Obviously, defensively it was a notable improvement today. Practically spaces weren’t left open. That speaks highly of how well the 10 players in front of me were doing. … To not get the results we want is frustrating, but if we continue this way it will go well.”
On earning the point at home but wanting more: “I want to win every game. When you’re at home with your fans, seeing that they’re making the effort to come to these games. … Playing the way we did tonight and not being able to give them three points, which we feel like they deserve and we deserve, it’s a frustrating feeling. Knowing where we are in the standings and playing the way we did tonight, we felt like we deserved three points, but this game isn’t about deserving; it’s about going out there and taking the points. Tonight, unfortunately it didn’t work that way for us, but I am at peace of mind knowing that if we continue to play the way we did tonight, sooner or later things will turn around for us.”
On finishing the third straight week with two games on the schedule: “We train very hard to make sure that we have the legs to play as many games as we need to, whatever time span that it is. We have a good group of guys and I feel like we have enough depth to where we can have a competitive squad for 90 plus minutes. If it has to be every three, four days, so be it. At the end of the day, we’re professional athletes. We have to take care of our bodies on and off the pitch.
“I know that there are times where we can sense a bit of that fatigue, and that’s just where we need to step it up mentally. That’s where you have to show a little bit of that extra concentration so that when that fatigue steps in you know you can still focus and not become sloppy on the ball and in decision making. That is 100 percent just concentration. It is a frustrating feeling. What do we do? We soak it in. We analyze the video. We learn from what we did right, what we did wrong, and use that in training. Let it out in training.”
On the biggest takeaway from tonight heading into next Friday’s road game vs. NYCFC: “The intensity. You saw guys throwing themselves in front of shots. When [Austin FC] were circulating the ball and getting into those wide spots how quick we were to shift and close the space down. A lot of times when they got into our final third it felt like they didn’t have much time to think about what their next option was going to be. The intensity that the guys showed tonight—that’s what I stick with.####
Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Maquiñana – Director, Communications rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com C: 650.243.8523
San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder NIKO TSARKIS (30) shields the ball away from Austin FC Midfielder EMILIANO RIGONI (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder NIKO TSARKIS (30) shields the ball away from Austin FC Midfielder EMILIANO RIGONI (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) heads the ball away from the goal in front of Austin FC Goalkeeper BRAD STUVER (1) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CRISTIAN ESPINOZA (10) celebrates his goal with San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder NIKO TSARKIS (30), San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) and San Jose Earthquakes Forward MATTHEW HOPPE (12) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender NICK LIMA (24) heads the ball in front of the goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper DANIEL (42) reaches for a cross above Austin FC Defender LEO VÄISÄNEN (15) on the field in front of the San Jose Ultra Supporter Section during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) battles for the ball against Austin FC Midfielder OWEN WOLFF (33) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) passes the ball away from pressure from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward MATTHEW HOPPE (12) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JON GALLAGHER (17) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) takes a shot during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender MIGUEL TRAUCO (21) slide tackles Austin FC Midfielder ETHAN FINLAY (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Goalkeeper BRAD STUVER (1) leaps for a cross over San Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder OWEN WOLFF (33) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder OWEN WOLFF (33) splits between San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) and a lunging San Jose Earthquakes Defender CARLOS AKAPO (29) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) dribbles away from pressure from Austin FC Midfielder OWEN WOLFF (33) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (10) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, California
MEDIA RELEASE: Oct. 21, 2023
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Austin FC 1 Quakes clinch Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs in front of sellout crowd
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes qualified for the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in three years after drawing 1-1 with Austin FC on Saturday night at PayPal Park.
The Quakes opened the scoring in the 17th minute from forward Cristian Espinoza. A crucial interception from Jeremy Ebobisse set up Espinoza to fire his shot into the bottom corner. Austin would find the equalizer in the 32nd minute to finish the first half 1-1. The Quakes would outshoot their opponent 20 to four and hold onto the point to earn a playoff berth.
The Earthquakes will now prepare for their first playoff match against Sporting Kansas City on Wednesday, Oct. 25. Kickoff from Children’s Mercy Park is slated for 6:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass (Apple TV), as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).
GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes have qualified for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2020.
The Earthquakes finish the 2023 MLS regular season with a 10-10-13 record (43 pts), sitting in ninth place in the 14-team Western Conference.
The Quakes now hold a 2-0-5 record against Austin FC, including a 1-0-2 record on the road. They have never lost to Austin FC in seven MLS matches.
Cristian Espinoza netted the first goal of the game for his 13th goal of the season. Espinoza now has 26 goal contributions (13g, 13a), contributing to 66.7% of the Earthquakes’ total goals this season (39). This percentage of involvement ranks first in club history and ties for first in the league this season. Espinoza is now also tied with teammate Jeremy Ebobisse for fourth most goals in club history.
Jeremy Ebobisse tallied his fourth assist of the season and 16th of his MLS career.
MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Austin FC Saturday, October 21, 2023 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif. Attendance: 18,000 (sellout) Man of the Match: Cristian Espinoza
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco (Paul Marie 57’), Jonathan Mensah, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Jackson Yueill (C), Niko Tsakiris (Carlos Gruezo 57’), Matthew Hoppe; Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse (Tommy Thompson 88’), Cade Cowell (Jamiro Monteiro 57’).
Substitutes not used: Emi Ochoa (GK), Ayo Akinola, Tanner Beason, Judson, Jack Skahan.
On the team’s work tonight: “We are not over-celebrating anything. We were unlucky not to score, but I’m proud of my guys to push it and show a winning mentality and winning actions. Being over the [playoff] line is a great validation to the team, the staff, and the fans’ hard work and desire to get better. I see a lot of progress. We want to take it to the next step, and we have the opportunity. This is a league where there are always upsets in playoffs and we need to answer the question now of whether we want to be one of those teams.”
On the expectations vs. Sporting Kansas City: “There is a lot more potential in us. I believe in this group and this foundation of players, and I believe that we can be one of those teams that other teams don’t want to play against. You go in that locker room; that’s a hungry group of players. We have more ambition. This is a really united group, and I am hopeful that we will have a quick recovery for Kansas. Sporting Kansas City is a good team. They are very well coached. They have an intense environment. This is going to be a battle, but it is also one that we are not afraid of.”
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CRISTIAN ESPINOZA
On what clinching the playoff spot means for the fans: “It’s amazing. It’s amazing. The fans have been supporting us the entire season, and us on being on the field, we really feel the support. That’s been so important for us, and it was an important year for me personally, too. We wanted to win the game for the fans and finish higher in the table, but what’s important is that we qualified for the playoffs.”
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL
On qualifying for the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs: “We said it at the beginning of preseason that this is what we wanted to do. This is where we wanted to be. You could see a lot of fight especially during this game. I’m proud of the guys for what they did. We knew we had to be aggressive and go for it right away. We pushed the game, and it was a draw but we’re ready for playoffs and we’ll see. We’re excited for Wednesday. We regroup tomorrow, get ready to go Monday Tuesday and battle on Wednesday.”
Earthquakes Communications Contacts: Ryan Maquiñana – Director , Communications rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com C: 650.243.8523
Austin FC Forward MOUSSA DJITTÉ (99) takes a shot during warmups of the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder SEBASTIAN BERHALTER (6) shoots during warmups of the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaThe San Jose Earthquakes, officiating team and Austin Football Club during the National Anthem during pregame of the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JHOHAN ROMAÑA (3) kneels just before kickoff of the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIC (28) battles with Austin FC Defender NICK LIMA (24) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (25) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) complains about being fouled by Austin FC Forward MOUSSA DJITTÉ (99) as Austin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (25) chases the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JHOHAN ROMAÑA (3) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward ANDY RÍOS (25) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TOMMY THOMPSON (22) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JAVIER “CHOFIS” LÓPEZ (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JAVIER “CHOFIS” LÓPEZ (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Goalkeeper BRAD STUVER (41) challenges for the ball against San Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender TANNER BEASON (15) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) dribbles past Austin FC Defender NICK LIMA (24) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) and Austin FC Defender ZAN KOLMANIC (21) compete for a header during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JAVIER “CHOFIS” LÓPEZ (9) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JAVIER “CHOFIS” LÓPEZ (9) dribbles against Austin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward ANDY RÍOS (25) challenges Austin FC Defender JHOHAN ROMAÑA (3) for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder ERIC REMEDI (5) dribbles across the field with Austin FC Defender ZAN KOLMANIC (21) chasing during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) looks for his passing options with San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JAVIER “CHOFIS” LÓPEZ (9) and San Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) in support with Austin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) defending during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JHOHAN ROMAÑA (3) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TOMMY THOMPSON (22) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TOMMY THOMPSON (22) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIC (28) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward ANDY RÍOS (25) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward ANDY RÍOS (25) dribbles away from Austin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward ANDY RÍOS (25) shoots against Austin FC Defender JHOHAN ROMAÑA (3) and Austin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TOMMY THOMPSON (22) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) leaps on Austin FC Forward MOUSSA DJITTÉ (99) for a header during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TANNER BEASON (15) and San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIC (28) challenge Austin FC Forward MOUSSA DJITTÉ (99) for a header during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) dribbles against San Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) shoots during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIC (28) leaps for a header against Austin FC Defender ZAN KOLMANIC (21) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIC (28) dribbles down the sideline against Austin FC Defender NICK LIMA (24) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) dribbles away from Austin FC Forward RODNEY REDES (11) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (25) and San Jose Earthquakes Forward ANDY RÍOS (25) challenge for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (25) assess his options against San Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (25) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward ANDY RÍOS (25) challenges for the ball against Austin FC Forward SEBASTIÁN DRIUSSI (25) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) heads the ball in front of the Earthquakes goal with San Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIC (28) and San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper JT MARCINKOWSKI (1) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward BENJI KIKANOVIC (28) celebrates his goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder TOMÁS POCHETTINO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ZAN KOLMANIC (21) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ZAN KOLMANIC (21) dribbles away from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder ERIC REMEDI (5) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender NICK LIMA (24) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ZAN KOLMANIC (21) dribbles against San Jose Earthquakes Defender PAUL MARIE (3) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender JULIO CASCANTE (18) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender TANNER BEASON (15) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) passes the ball upfield with San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder ERIC REMEDI (5) defending during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder MCKINZE GAINES II (27) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder MCKINZE GAINES II (27) dribbles against San Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward RODNEY REDES (11) tries to get past San Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder TOMÁS POCHETTINO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) shoots against San Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward DIEGO FAGUNDEZ (14) shoots against San Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward CADE COWELL (44) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI (8) breaks to the left against Austin FC Defender JHOHAN ROMAÑA (3) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) challenges for the ball against Austin FC Midfielder ALEXANDER RING (8) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI (8) passes the ball before Austin FC Forward KEKUTA MANNEH (23) can challenge for the ball during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI (8) congratulates San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS FIERRO (7) after his goal during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Defender ZAN KOLMANIC (21) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Midfielder DANIEL PEREIRA (15) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward RODNEY REDES (11) dribbles between San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward RODNEY REDES (11) dribbles away from San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender MARCOS LÓPEZ (27) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaAustin FC Forward KEKUTA MANNEH (23) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Forward CADE COWELL (44) shoots during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, CaliforniaSan Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper JT MARCINKOWSKI (1) congratulates teammates San Jose Earthquakes Defender NATHAN (13) and San Jose Earthquakes Defender TANNER BEASON (15) after a clean sheet for the defense in the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin Football Club at PayPal Park in San Jose, California
MEDIA RELEASE: Oct. 20, 2021
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 4, Austin FC 0 Wondolowski scores 169th MLS goal SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Austin FC 4-0 on Wednesday evening at PayPal Park. Four different players scored for San Jose, including Major League Soccer’s all-time leading scorer Chris Wondolowski. After a scoreless first half, San Jose struck early in the second frame. Benji Kikanovic forced a turnover in the corner and carried the ball goalward. His lateral pass bounded past several players before finding Chofis at the back post for the short-range finish. San Jose added a second just a few minutes later. Jeremy Ebobisse battled with his defender for possession of a long through ball with both eventually stumbling. Kikanovic recovered the loose ball and curled a low shot past goalkeeper Brad Stuver. The Quakes extended their lead to 3-0 in the 59th minute. Cristian Espinoza played a floating ball into the box, which was cleared only as far as the penalty spot. Chris Wondolowski volleyed the bouncing ball into the back of the net. San Jose then added a fourth goal in the 85th minute when Carlos Fierro headed home a corner kick by Cristian Espinoza. The Quakes will now prepare to host Vancouver Whitecaps FC at PayPal Park, presented by Intermedia. The match, which will celebrate the 2001 MLS Cup-winning team, will kick off at 7 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on NBC Sports Bay Area, KNBR 1050 and 1370 KZSF.
GAME NOTES The Earthquakes now hold a 9-12-9 record (36 pts.) during the 2021 MLS regular season and are currently in 10th place in the Western Conference. San Jose is now 2-0-1 all-time vs. Austin, with a 1-0-0 home record. The Quakes have scored four goals in each of their last two meetings with Austin. San Jose’s last victory by a margin of 4+ goals was vs. LA Galaxy (4-0) on Oct. 14, 2020. The Quakes recorded their first multi-goal shutout victory since Sept. 29, in which the Quakes defeated LAFC 2-0 at PayPal Park. Midfielder Chofis scored his team-leading 12th goal of the season, his first season in MLS. His 12 goals are the most by any first-year player in MLS. His goal also marked his second game-winning goal of the season. Rookie forward Benji Kikanovic scored his third goal of the season. Forward Jeremy Ebobisse tallied the assist on Kikanovic’s goal. It marked his first assist of the season and ninth of his MLS career. Forward Chris Wondolowski scored his third goal of the season and 169th of his MLS career. Along with two postseason goals, he now has 171 combined regular season and playoff goals, surpassing Landon Donovan (170) for most all-time. Midfielder Carlos Fierro scored his second goal of the season and fourth of his MLS career. Midfielder Cristian Espinoza tallied the assist on Fierro’s goal. It marked his team-leading seventh assist of the season and 29th of his MLS career. Tonight’s shutout marks JT Marcinkowski’s fifth shutout in 2021, and 10th of his MLS career. His five shutouts are a single-season career-high.
MATCH INFORMATION MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 4 – 0 Austin FCOct. 20, 2021 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 12,035Man of the Match: Benji Kikanovic
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez, Tanner Beason, Nathan, Tommy Thompson (Paul Marie 58); Eric Remedi, Jackson Yueill, Cristian Espinoza, Chofis (Cristian Espinoza 58); Andy Rios (Chris Wondolowski 58), Benji Kikanovic (Carlos Fierro 65), Jeremy Ebobisse (Cade Cowell 65). Substitutes not used: Oswaldo Alanis, Tanner Beason, Judson, Shea Salinas, Daniel Vega.
AUSTIN FC: Brad Stuver; Jhohan Romaña, Julio Cascante, Zan Kolmanic, Nick Lima; Tomas Pochettino, Alex Ring, Sebastian Driussi (Dani Pereira 70); Cecilio Dominguez (Rodney Reyes 46), Diego Fagundez (Kekuta Manneh 80), Moussa Djitte (McKinze Gaines 46). Substitutes not used: Sebastian Berhalter, Jon Gallagher, Hector Jimenez, Aedan Stanley, Andrew Tarbell.
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA On his impressions of the match and shutout victory:“I think we played a great game. The strategy went well because we won the match by creating many opportunities to get shots on goal. When the team plays well, everyone plays well, even the guys who came off the bench. I think if we were able to maintain this consistency, intensity and style, surely our outlook would be different. It makes me happy for the young players. They showed they go for more even in a complicated present. I asked them to play for honor and they did that.” On Benji Kikanovic’s impact as a winger:“I decided for him to play on the left side. Benji, Cade Cowell, Cristian Espinoza, Carlos Fierro can all play in different positions. That is what we are looking for and try to transmit to them. I have been saying for a while that when the young players have 30 matches played for San Jose, they will be more complete. Among four to five players, younger guys such as Tanner Beason, Jackson Yueill, Benji need these minutes to improve, make mistakes and grow physically and mentally.”
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI On scoring his 169th MLS goal:“To be honest, it was a bit of a combo, both relief and joy. Joy to get that win, especially a breakout win in front of our home fans. It’s been a strong point for us to be better at home and to pick up points and it’s exciting to be able to get more points at home for it to be a fortress. That’s something that we try to work on and keep trying to continue to improve. To have this breakout game at home was very satisfying, very nice. For myself, I grab joy from that and for myself it’s a bit of a relief. It’s been a while since I’ve seen it hit the back of the net, so to do that was special as well.” On the team’s confidence heading into the remaining few games after tonight’s win:“I think it’s something that was needed. I think it was great for the morale in the locker room. It was nice to have one of those tangible wins where everything went well. We worked on set pieces, and we were able to get a set piece goal. We worked on our diagonals and crosses, and we were able to get a goal like that. It was nice to have everything kind of click so I think that it’s very beneficial for us as we close on these last four games and try to make the best run as we can.”
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES GOALKEEPER JT MARCINKOWSKI On Tanner Beason’s impact in the defense:“Tanner has done really well. He’s a gamer. I think he’s someone who leaves it all on the line. I think you can see that in his save and the countless number of blocks he makes throughout a match. I think the entire team played really well tonight because of the way we pressed in the first and second half. It was really effective. Our backline was really sharp and compact, and communicated really well with each other. Nathan, Marcos Lopez, Tommy Thompson and Paul Marie played well. I think Eric Remedi had six or seven key tackles in the middle, same with Jackson Yueill. It was overall a team effort and we were fortunate to get the clean sheet.” On the team’s communication in the locker room:“Before the game, I think there was a really good vibe in the locker room. Matias Almeyda has always told us to play with love, passion and honor. I think that’s what we showed tonight. We played for each other, with each other as a team. At halftime, we tried to continue what we were doing in the first half. We created some good chances, and we knew if we kept a high intensity, goals would come in the second half. I think it was crucial getting a few early and putting ourselves on the front foot. I think that’s something we haven’t done well this year, putting teams away when we can. We let a lot of teams back into the game when they shouldn’t have been there. It was nice to finally get one where we scored goals when we needed to. After the match, it was a good vibe, but we’re ready for Saturday. It’s a quick turnaround. There’s only a short amount of time before the next game. All eyes are on Vancouver.”
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