North Texas SC kicked off its 2025 campaign in thrilling fashion with a 3-2 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 at Choctaw Stadium. The win, marking their first of the season, was driven by standout performances from key players, including captain Sam Sarver and midfielder Anthony Ramirez.
Ramirez Sets the Tone for 2025 Season
Midfielder Anthony Ramirez wasted no time making his mark on the new season, scoring North Texas SC’s first goal of 2025. His left-footed strike curled past the Vancouver goalkeeper, showcasing his precision and composure under pressure. With this goal, Ramirez now has nine career goals for North Texas SC, further solidifying his importance in the squad’s attacking setup.
Sarver’s Leadership Shines with First Professional Brace
Newly appointed captain Sam Sarver demonstrated why he was entrusted with the armband, delivering an impressive performance that included his first two professional goals. Sarver, who joined North Texas SC after being drafted 41st overall in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas, played a pivotal role in securing the club’s victory. His brace not only contributed to the win but also set the tone for his leadership role throughout the season.
Fresh Faces Make Their Mark
The match also saw the debuts of James Bulkeley and Michael Cortallesa, two defenders looking to establish themselves in the league. Bulkeley, signed from Gulf United FC, made his first appearance for the club, while Cortallesa, a FC Dallas Academy product, became the 29th player in North Texas SC history to make his professional debut in MLS NEXT Pro. Their integration into the squad is a testament to the club’s continued focus on developing young talent and building a strong foundation for the future.
Collodi Continues to Impress in Goal
Goalkeeper Michael Collodi proved to be a crucial factor in securing the win, making four key saves to maintain North Texas SC’s lead. Collodi, who was instrumental in the club’s 2024 MLS NEXT Pro Cup triumph, recorded his 18th career victory in MLS NEXT Pro, placing him second all-time in club history. His experience and shot-stopping ability provide North Texas SC with a reliable presence between the posts as they aim for another strong season.
A Strong Start to the Season
The match, played in front of 932 fans, highlighted North Texas SC’s attacking prowess and defensive resilience. While Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 put up a fight, the combination of Ramirez’s early goal, Sarver’s clinical finishing, and Collodi’s heroics in goal ensured that the home side walked away with all three points.
As North Texas SC looks ahead to the rest of the season, they will aim to build on this momentum and continue developing their young squad under the leadership of Sarver and the steady hands of Collodi. With new talent stepping up and experienced players leading the charge, the club is well-positioned for another exciting campaign in MLS NEXT Pro.
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