

Sporting Kansas City Reserves 0–3 Austin FC II: Visitors Cruise in MLS Next Pro
Austin FC II delivered a dominant display to thump Sporting Kansas City Reserves 3–0 in MLS Next Pro action on May 23, 2026. The result strengthens Austin’s push for a playoff spot, while SKC Reserves sink deeper into the bottom half of the table.
Match Report
Played at Swope Soccer Village, the match was one‑sided from the first whistle. Austin FC II controlled midfield and created numerous chances, while SKC Reserves rarely threatened. The visitors’ superior passing and movement carved open the home defense repeatedly.
Goal Breakdown
- 14′ – 0–1: Winger Ethan Brooks finished a neat team move, receiving a cut‑back and slotting home from 10 yards.
- 38′ – 0–2: A corner kick was headed in by center‑back Tyler Emerson after a missed clearance.
- 72′ – 0–3: Substitute Jake O’Brien ran onto a through ball and beat the keeper with a composed finish.
Tactical Observations
Austin FC II’s high press suffocated SKC Reserves’ buildup. The visitors won the ball high up the pitch on multiple occasions, leading to dangerous transitions. Sporting Kansas City Reserves lacked creativity in the final third, managing only two shots on target.
Standings and Implications
The win moves Austin FC II to sixth place in the Western Conference, with 31 points from 18 matches — well within striking distance of a playoff berth. For Sporting Kansas City Reserves, the defeat leaves them in 11th place, 10 points adrift of the playoff cutoff. Head coach Mike Jacobs will need to find answers quickly.
Next Fixtures
Austin FC II host Real Monarchs in their next outing, while SKC Reserves travel to St. Louis City 2 in another tough test.