SAN ANTONIO – As time ticked down, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC holding onto a one-goal lead with a resolute performance that was limiting host San Antonio FC’s clear looks at goal, it appeared something special would be needed to keep SAFC’s undefeated start to the season alive.

With 11 minutes to go, that was just what Kris Tyrpak provided.

The Switchbacks, too, kept going and going as they looked to jump past San Antonio in the standings. A fine early finish by Aaron King had given the visitors the lead, and Kevaughn Frater almost spoiled the night for the hosts when his low shot thudded off the left post in stoppage time.

“Tonight they got the first goal which is so valuable in this league,” said Powell. “We wanted to try to get back in it and were trying different looks and formations to get that back and in the end Kris Tyrpak got one in and pulled us back into the game.”

While the contest cemented Tyrpak’s credentials as one of the major offseason moves in the USL, a first start for Maxi Rodriguez and professional debut for 18-year-old Devin Vega – both San Antonio natives – was also a significant step. The squad testing its depth early in the season could pay off in a bigger way further down the line.

“It’s huge for them, it’s a huge confidence thing,” said Tyrpak. “The more times they get out there the more confidence they get and the better they’ll be able to help our team in the future, so it’s good early on in the season to give them minutes so they can produce later on in the season.”

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For former FC Dallas Academy standout Vega in particular, getting to make his professional debut in his hometown proved a special moment.

“It puts a smile on my face,” said Vega. “I didn’t want to show it really because I just wanted to get out there and do my business, but inside it’s a lot of butterflies and it’s a really good feeling. With my family watching, I know they’re really proud. That happening right there is a dream come true.”

Thanks to Tyrpak’s strike, San Antonio’s fans had smiles as broad as Vega’s after the game, too.