Tormenta FC, the hottest team in USL League One, saw their impressive winning streak come to an end against Spokane, but they still managed to grab a crucial point in a 1-1 draw. In a clash between two of the league’s top eight teams, the match delivered exactly what you’d expect.
First Half: Tormenta Strikes First
Tormenta controlled possession for much of the opening half, pressing Spokane and creating opportunities. However, it was goalkeeper Austin Pack came up big early in this one. In the 32nd minute, he would make a strong stop on a close-range effort. Just minutes later, in the 36th, Pack delivered what could have been the Save of the Week with a brilliant diving stop to his left.
The pressure from Tormenta paid off in the 39th minute as Niall Reid-Stephen, the league’s hottest player over the past two months, stepped up for a free kick just outside the 18-yard box and curled a stunning shot into the top corner. It was his 13th goal of the season and a brilliant strike that further cemented his place in the Golden Boot race.
Tormenta entered the break with a 1-0 lead and their eighth straight win in sight.
Second Half: Spokane Responds
Spokane came out aggressive in the second half. Luis Gil nearly equalized early on with a close-range shot, but once again, Austin Pack stood tall. Moments later, a foul inside the box gave Spokane a penalty, and Gil made no mistake from the spot to tie the game at 1-1.
Spokane continued to apply pressure, nearly scoring twice in the following minutes. Tormenta responded with a dangerous chance of their own, as Mason Tunbridge linked up beautifully with Reid-Stephen in the 60th minute but his shot sailed just over the bar, denying him a third consecutive brace and Tormenta the lead.
The defensive play of the night came in the 64th minute. With goalkeeper Pack off his line, Makel Rasheed heroically headed a close-range shot off the line to keep the score level a highlight-reel moment that could prove vital as playoff positions tighten.
Playoff Push: Two Games to Go
With just two games remaining in the regular season, Tormenta is in prime position to secure their first playoff berth since 2022. They travel to face Greenville Triumph this weekend before returning home to play Texoma on October 25th.
All eyes will be on Niall Reid-Stephen, who is not only chasing the Golden Boot but has now set a Tormenta record for goal contributions. Over the last 10 games, he has racked up 14 total contributions, making him the clear player to watch as the regular season winds down.
The sprint to the finish is on and Tormenta looks ready to surge into the playoffs with momentum and belief.
Until next time Vamos Tormenta!