Hattiesburg 2-1 McKinney Chupacabras

Hattiesburg 2-1 McKinney Chupacabras

Chupacabras show improvement in a tighter rematch on the road

The McKinney Chupacabras traveled to Hattiesburg, Mississippi, for a weather-delayed rematch against Hattiesburg FC, falling 2–1 in a hard-fought contest that showed signs of progress.

After conceding five goals to Hattiesburg earlier this season, McKinney’s defense held firmer this time, limiting the home side to just two goals in stormy conditions.

Kickoff was delayed by 70 minutes due to thunderstorms, and the rain continued as the match got underway. The slippery pitch set the tone for a physical game from the start.

Goalkeeper Jayden Schell made several key saves early to keep the match level, but Hattiesburg broke through in the 20th minute with the opening goal.

Tensions ran high in the first half, resulting in multiple cautions. Ryan Anderson and Jakob Fiol were both shown yellow cards, and Head Coach Jose Burciaga Jr. was sent off with a red, forcing the Chupacabras to adjust without their sideline leader.

In the 82nd minute, Hattiesburg extended the lead to 2–0 with a long-range strike. But McKinney refused to go quietly - Anderson scored deep into stoppage time to make it 2–1 just before the final whistle.

Though the result wasn’t what they hoped for, the Chupacabras showed a more organized defensive effort and continued to fight until the end.

Words by Emma Woods.