Kickoff Excitement: UTEP Soccer's Home Opener vs. Texas A&M-Commerce

Get ready, soccer fans! The UTEP Miners are set to take the field at University Field this Thursday, August 22, at 7 p.m. MT for their much-anticipated home opener against Texas A&M-Commerce. This match is not just any game; it’s Camp Reunion Night, offering summer camp participants an exclusive buy one, get one ticket deal!

Game Coverage

Don’t miss a moment of the action! You can catch the game live with real-time stats and streaming options. Join us as the Miners aim to make a statement this season.

Season Kickoff Recap

The Miners kicked off their 2024 campaign last Saturday with a goalless draw against Abilene Christian University (ACU). With a roster showcasing 20 players, senior goalkeeper Angelina Amparano stood out, making five crucial saves against nine shots. Anai Lopez led the offensive effort with two shots, one of which was on target. Several other players, including Sheyliene Patolo and Sydney Williams, also contributed to the attack.

Shoutout for the Shutout

Defensively, the Miners showed resilience by holding ACU scoreless. This marks the first season-opening shutout since their impressive 5-0 victory over New Mexico State in 2016.

Back in Action

Key players Eve Barry and Hayden McMillan made their return to the starting lineup, bouncing back from injuries that sidelined them last season.

New Faces on the Field

A total of nine players made their UTEP debuts against ACU, with Emma Cook, Cassie Garza, and Ashlee Mora among those earning their first collegiate starts.

Player Performance Insights

• Six players logged over 70 minutes on the pitch, demonstrating stamina and commitment.
• Angelina Amparano, Ashlyn Neireiter, and Daniele Tovar played the entire match, showcasing their endurance.

Scouting Texas A&M-Commerce

The Lions started their season strong, dominating Oral Roberts with a 4-1 victory. Hannah Bell earned Southland Conference Offensive Player of the Week after a stellar two-goal performance. With 19 returning players, including key scorers Kaydence Ramirez and Bell, A&M-Commerce is poised to pose a significant challenge for the Miners.

Series History

Historically, UTEP has faced A&M-Commerce just once, suffering a narrow 3-2 defeat in their first encounter last September. The Miners will be eager to level the score this time around.

Looking Ahead

This Sunday, August 25, UTEP will return to University Field to face UC Riverside at noon MT, with a free pre-game tailgate starting at 11 a.m. MT. Be sure to join the festivities!

Get Your Tickets!

Don’t miss out on the excitement—call 915-747-UTEP or visit UTEPMiners.com/Tickets for more information and to secure your spot at the game!

What Do You Think?

• Can the Miners rebound from last season's challenges and turn things around this year?
• Is Camp Reunion Night a great way to engage the community, or does it dilute the focus on the game?
• How important is the return of key players like Eve Barry and Hayden McMillan to the team’s success?
• Will UTEP finally secure a win against A&M-Commerce this time?
• What are your predictions for the Miners’ performance this season?