Austin FC’s CJ Fodrey Continues Late-Game Heroics in 2-1 Victory Over Seattle Sounders
AUSTIN, TX – Forward CJ Fodrey once again proved to be a game-changer for Austin FC, providing a crucial assist in the sixth minute of added time to secure a 2-1 victory over the seattle Sounders on Sunday at Q2 Stadium. The win marks Austin FC’s third in September, with all three victories coming after the 80th minute.
The match, tied 1-1, saw Fodrey enter as a 78th-minute substitute to a roaring crowd. In the dying moments,a looping cross from midfielder Dani Pereira found Fodrey,who dove to head the ball into the six-yard box,setting up forward Myrto uzuni for the winning goal.
rather than celebrate immediately, Fodrey turned to acknowledge the ecstatic Austin FC faithful, who have quickly embraced the forward as a “super-sub” and cult hero. The team officially dubbed him a “game changer” on Instagram following the match.
“Throughout the season,we’ve tried to build that belief (that a goal coudl come at any moment in late games),” head coach Nico Estévez said. “We keep going until the final whistle, because it’s worth it.And right now, we’re in this moment where we’re having that part of luck, but also that belief that (gives) us the composure and poise in those late minutes to be very clean in our crossing and in our final actions.”
Fodrey’s impact this month has been undeniable. He scored the winning goal with a header against Kansas City on September 7th,followed by a goal off a rebound in the U.S.Open Cup semifinal against Minnesota United. Sunday’s assist completes a string of late-game contributions that have propelled Austin FC to success.
Estévez emphasized Fodrey’s acceptance of his current role. “I don’t think about (if he should be a starter or a substitute).He has a role right now, and he’s executing his role. And then I think if he has a different role, he will try to execute in the best way,” Estévez stated. “Right now, his role is coming late and helping the team to win and he is doing a really good job, and has embraced that role really well. And we’re very happy to have him in, seeing him contributing for the club.”
Austin FC (record unavailable from provided text) will next face Real Salt Lake before competing in the historic Open Cup final against Nashville SC. With Fodrey’s late-game prowess, the Verde and Black are entering these challenges with renewed confidence.
