Former Bravos player debuts with Atlante Neza

PHARR — Former RGV Bravos FC forward Tomás Banda debuted with the Potros de Hierro del Atlante Neza of the Mexican Soccer League’s Liga de Ascenso (Second Division) in a 1-all tie against the Lobos BUAP.

Banda started and played 73 minutes of the Week 2 match of the 2009 Apertura (Opening) Season of the Mexican Soccer League’s Liga de Ascenso, formerly the Mexican Primera “A”, on Aug. 9.

The Potros de Hierro, based in Ciudad Neza on the outskirts of Mexico City, are currently in 8th place in the 17-team Liga de Ascenso with a record of 1-0-1 and four points.

During his stay with Bravos FC, Banda played 15 games for the Blue-and-Gold, 14 as a starter, and accumulated 1,267 minutes of playing time.

Banda scored two goals, missed a penalty kick in a 3-3 draw with the Laredo Heat on May 25, and had nine assists for Bravos FC.

The former Bravos FC forward’s nine assists were the second-most in the USL Premier Development League.

Banda arrived to Bravos FC via a loan from Mexican side Rayados del Monterrey. The loan ended at the conclusion of the Blue-and-Gold’s inaugural 2009 season.

Atlante Neza had a bye in Week 3, which was played last weekend. However, the former Bravo saw action with the Potros’ U-20 squad in a 2-1 victory over Puebla.

Banda played 69 minutes with Atlante’s U-20 team and received a caution in the 39th minute.

Atlante Neza will visit Pumas Morelos on Aug. 22 in the fourth week of the Liga de Ascenso.