McALLEN — The Progreso Red Ants’ start to Friday’s regional semifinal was electric. Three minutes into the contest, the Red Ants’ Jorge Mendoza capitalized on a Boerne error, finding a wide-open net to put Progreso on top.
Boerne’s answer, however, was more electrifying. Led by Sam Theiss’ first-half hat trick, the Greyhounds scored eight straight goals, four during each half, to end the Red Ants’ season 8-1 during the Region IV-4A semifinals at McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium.
“The truth is, they have a great team,” Progreso head coach Gerardo Alanis said. “Hats off to Boerne. We expected more from our team, but we had a great overall season. After nearly two years without soccer, we were out here fighting. So, I’m very happy with our kids.”
Following a four-goal outburst during the first, the Greyhounds picked up where they left off during the second, adding another pair of scores during the second half’s first five minutes.
Boerne’s Adrian Cuervo put the final exclamation point on Boerne’s victory, netting a pair of goals during the 57th and 58th minutes to seal the win.
The Greyhounds, the reigning Class 4A state champions, return to the Region IV-4A finals, taking on the Taylor Ducks at noon today at McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium.
The Red Ants finish the season with a 12-5-1 overall record, including a 9-3 mark in district play to finish second in District 31-4A play.
Despite having not played a UIL contest since March 10, 2020, the Red Ants were one of four teams to advance to the regional tournament this year.
“I feel like a lot of people didn’t believe in us,” Alanis said. “These kids have a lot of heart though. They came out here and played their game this year. I’m very proud of them. They accomplished a lot after being out for two years. For those coming back, they know now what it’s like to be at regionals. They have that experience now.”
