The Veterans Memorial Patriots continued their journey in the Harlandale Tournament on Friday afternoon, facing off against Holmes in a high-stakes Silver Bracket matchup. In what proved to be the most competitive game of the tournament thus far, the Patriots displayed exceptional grit, taking the match all the way to a penalty shootout. The game began with a defensive test for the Patriots as Holmes applied early offensive pressure, eventually finding the back of the net to take an initial lead. However, the Patriots "found their legs" midway through the half and began to dictate the tempo. Their persistence was rewarded when Fausto Castro capitalized on a clinical assist from Dedric Rangel to level the score. The teams headed into the break deadlocked at 1-1. Following halftime adjustments, the Patriots returned to the pitch with renewed energy. The defensive unit was outstanding, repelling multiple Holmes attacks to keep the game tied. Offensively, the Patriots successfully broke through the Holmes defensive line on several occasions, but despite creating high-quality opportunities in the attacking third, they were unable to find a game-winner before the final whistle. With the score tied 1-1 at the end of regulation, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout. The Patriots showed great composure under pressure, successfully converting their first four attempts. Unfortunately, a narrow miss on the fifth shot allowed Holmes to claim the victory in the shootout. The Patriots will look to close out their tournament play on a high note tomorrow morning as they take on Eagle Pass High.