FRISCO - North Texas SC had four players named to the team of the week this week for their play in North Texas' two Week 23 games.Jimmy Maurer was named to the team for his performance against Toronto FC II, Ricardo Pepi was named for his performance against South Georgia Tormenta FC, andBryan Reynolds and Arturo Rodriguez played both games.
Ricardo Pepi’s two-goal performance was good enough to earn him a place on team of the week. Pepi dispatched both goals from the penalty spot, and his two goals meant that by the end of the game North Texas owned an 80% success rate on penalties over the course of the year. Pepi led the line in a five goal performance against the league’s best defense, with three shots on target and one chance created.
Jimmy Maurer also played one game against Toronto and was crucial in keeping the clean sheet. Maurer made five saves, including one remarkable save from an open header from the six yard box. His distribution from the back was also excellent, connecting on 90% of his passing.
Bryan Reynolds returned to the team after a long absence to the team and was instrumental to both of NTSC’s victories this week. He had above 85% passing in both games, had a goal and assist against Tormenta, while created two chances against the Canadian team. Reynolds also was great on the defensive side of the ball, winning six total tackles as winning 18 duels.
With yet another team of the week selection for Rodriguez, it now seems more surprising to seem him not make the team. This selection marks his eighth selection, and he created 3 chances as well as contributing one assist. He also scored the penalty to give North Texas a lead they would never relinquish against Toronto. While Rodriguez is best known for his ability to unlock opposing defenses, he was particularly combative during Week 23. Rodriguez won five tackles against Toronto and blocked two shots, and against Tormenta he contested nine duels.
