MLS Next Pro – Western Conference

Saint Louis City B Dominate North Texas SC 2-0

Saint Louis City B delivered a commanding performance to beat North Texas SC 2-0 at CITYPARK on May 31, 2026, extending their unbeaten run to four matches. Goals from forwards Mateo Fernandez and Owen Kelly in each half sealed a comfortable victory for the MLS Next Pro side.

Match Overview

The home side controlled possession from the outset, with North Texas struggling to cope with Saint Louis’ high press. Fernandez opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, latching onto a through ball from midfielder Ryan James and finishing low past the goalkeeper. North Texas had a chance to equalize just before half‑time, but forward Diego Martinez fired wide from a promising position.

Saint Louis doubled their lead in the 71st minute when Owen Kelly headed home a cross from substitute winger Aidan Thompson. The visitors lacked creativity in the final third and failed to register a shot on target in the second half. The clean sheet was Saint Louis’ third of the season.

Key Moments

• 22' Goal – Saint Louis City B 1-0: Mateo Fernandez runs onto a clever pass and slots past the keeper.
• 45+2' Missed chance: Diego Martinez’s volley goes just wide of the post.
• 71' Goal – Saint Louis City B 2-0: Owen Kelly powers a header home from a pinpoint cross.
• 85' Red card: North Texas’ midfielder, Jordan Lee, receives a second yellow for a reckless tackle.

Tactical Story

Saint Louis City B coach John Hackworth set his team up in a fluid 4-3-3, with full‑backs pushing high to create overloads. North Texas deployed a 3-5-2 but were overwhelmed in midfield, as Saint Louis’ trio of James, Carlos Rodriguez, and Liam Moore dominated possession. The visitors’ wing‑backs were pinned back, limiting their attacking threat. The red card in the 85th minute summed up North Texas’ frustration.

Standout Players

• Mateo Fernandez (Saint Louis City B): Scored the opener and was a constant menace with his movement.
• Owen Kelly (Saint Louis City B): His header sealed the win; he also held up play well.
• Ryan James (Saint Louis City B): Provided the assist for the first goal and controlled the tempo from midfield.

Table Impact

The victory lifts Saint Louis City B to 15 points in the Western Conference, climbing to fourth place. North Texas SC remain on 9 points, sitting in ninth. Saint Louis’ strong form suggests they could be playoff contenders as the season progresses. For full MLS Next Pro standings and fixtures, fans can visit the official league website.

Photo: Saint Louis City SC / MLS Next Pro