Austin FC impresses in Leagues Cup opener over Pumas

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The tough stretch Austin FC was mired in during MLS regular season matches lately was quickly put to an end with an impressive 3-2 victory over Pumas in their Leagues Cup opener.

Austin struck early in front of the home crowd, getting on the board first with an Alex Ring goal in the eighth minute. The hosts were dealt some major adversity later in the first half as Osman Bukari was shown a second yellow card, resulting in a red card.

Down a man, Austin was still able to add to their lead. Gyasi Zardes scored the second goal of the match in the 45th minute putting the MLS club up 2-0.

Liga MX's Pumas came back with a goal of their own in stoppage time to cut the lead in half. Josh Wolff's bunch was able to extend the lead once more with a Sebastian Driussi goal early in the second half to extend the lead to 3-1.

Pumas' second goal came in the 72nd minute and it was their last. It looked as if they'd tie it up in stoppage time of the second half after they drew a penalty but an unlikely hero stepped up for Austin.

Stefan Cleveland, starting in place of regular goalkeeper Brad Stuver who was off for rest, stopped the Pumas penalty to effectively seal the Austin FC win. He was swarmed by teammates and made another packed crowd at Q2 Stadium erupt.

Last year the Verde and Black lost both Leagues Cup games at home and did not advance out of the Group Stage.

The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage. Austin, who gets three points from the win, will host Monterrey Tuesday evening at Q2 Stadium.