Defiance values guide Shandon’s strong performance.

Forwards can be streaky. There are ways they can pull themselves out of slumps though – grind on defense or shoot their way out. In Sunday’s come-from-behind draw Shandon Hopeau did both.

The winger played 60 strong minutes earning a bench appearance on the USL Championship Team of the Week. His fortuitous goal is up for Fan Choice Goal of the Week.

Effort is something that defines Tacoma, and Defiance. Effort is controllable. Effort was the first way that Hopeau knew he could help his squad. He won 11 of 14 duels on the day. His toughness was on display in his 4 tackles with only 1 lost. He kept the possession needle tipped Tacoma’s way.

That heat map shows 1/6th of the pitch that Hopeau had on lockdown. Fresno FC had to avoid Hopeau. He was a bit too tough for them.

Shandon also asserted himself in front of the net. His five shots lead the team. His goal came via an opportunistic run and dribble through traffic. He was eager, ambitious, and believed in himself. Shooters shoot, and Shandon knew that if he kept shooting he’d get the net.

He did.

DEFIANTLY TACOMA

Next match at LA Galaxy II on Wednesday, May 29 (7:30 pm PT / ESPN+)