Shutout loss stings debut of Scorpions' stadium

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It was a night for history Saturday at the former Longhorn Quarry, where the Scorpions played their first match at the brand-new Toyota Field in front of an announced capacity crowd of 8,177.

It was also a night for moral victories after Tampa Bay, the defending NASL champion, spoiled what had been a rabid housewarming party with a 2-0 victory.

A disappointing result — but not nearly as bad as last year's season opener, when the Scorpions were ravaged 4-0 by Puerto Rico at Heroes Stadium.

“Progress,” midfielder Hans Denissen said. “We have to see it like that.”

Not the progress the Scorpions were hoping for, however.

Two matches into their second NASL season, they've earned just one of a possible six points with zero goals.

It wasn't for lack of chances. The Scorpions generated 13 shots and flubbed multiple quality chances in front of Tampa Bay's net.

Edin Husic starts a break for the Scorpions as the San Antonio Scorpions open in their new stadium, Toyota Field against Tampa Bay on April 13, 2013. Edin Husic starts a break for the Scorpions as the San Antonio Scorpions open in their new stadium, Toyota Field against Tampa Bay on April 13, 2013. Photo: TOM REEL, Express-News Photo: TOM REEL, Express-News Image 1 of / 29 Caption Close Shutout loss stings debut of Scorpions' stadium 1 / 29 Back to Gallery

They couldn't capitalize, however, while Tampa Bay took advantage of two defensive breakdowns — first on a first-half corner kick after the Scorpions failed to clear the ball, and the second on a breakaway that forced goalkeeper Pat Hannigan to concede a penalty kick.

“The fans are doing a great job,” Dennisen said. “They're rocking the stadium really hard. We can feel the vibe. Unfortunately, we can't get it going on the field. It's really disappointing.”

Rather than be intimidated, Tampa Bay coach Ricky Hill said his team fed on the electric surroundings.

“Magnificent stadium, magnificent supporters,” he said. “We really enjoyed it. It lifted our players.”

An array of dignitaries, including mayor Julian Castro and Miss USA 2012 Nana Meriwether, descended upon the soccer-specific stadium to find an ambience suitable for Fiesta.

A powerful sound system pumped music before kickoff while fans milled about drinking beer and absorbing the moment.

NASL commissioner Bill Peterson, a guest of Scorpions owner Gordon Hartman, couldn't help but imagine similar openings in the second division of U.S. soccer.

“I'm over the moon,” he said. “This is a big moment for our league. I think it's a great model for the rest of our teams to follow.”

While Hartman can savor what he said was a hitch-free opening, Scorpions manager Tim Hankinson lamented the flat performance from his team.

“It's an incredible atmosphere,” he said, “and the fans deserve a lot more than we were able to give them tonight.”

dmccarney