What a night. What a match. What a team.
I still can’t calm down after the absolute thriller Deportivo Rose City gave us this July 12 in Medford. Our boys came through with a hard-fought but well-earned win over Valley FC, punching their ticket to the UPSL national quarterfinals. Once again, this team showed that they play not just with their feet—but with their whole heart.
⚽ A Battle From Start to Finish
From the first whistle, you could feel the tension. Valley FC came to fight, but our guys showed up to defend the badge with every pass, every tackle, and every shout of encouragement. Midfield was a war zone, but Randys Valdivia Díaz stood tall—driving the rhythm like a true midfield general. His vision, his composure, his grit… this guy’s got it all.
The goal came midway through the second half, and it was pure magic. A clean midfield steal, a quick one-two between Jesús A. Olivar and David Espinoza, and then a low rocket into the far corner. A goal with a capital G. The crowd erupted. And I won’t lie—I teared up. This team makes me feel things I haven’t felt since I first fell in love with the game.
🧱 Defense, Pride, and Community Spirit
The last 20 minutes? Pure drama. The backline, led by captain César Álvarez, was a concrete wall. Every clearance, every block, every gritty tackle—it all screamed heart. The whole bench was on their feet. The fans were holding their breath. Chants of “¡Vamos La Rosa!” echoed through the Eastside sky.
Those final minutes weren’t just played—they were survived. And that’s what this team is all about: born from community leagues, fueled by sacrifice, playing for something bigger than themselves. No million-dollar paychecks, no shiny sponsors—just identity, heart, and roots.
🌟 What’s Next?
With this win, Deportivo Rose City is now among the top 8 teams in the entire UPSL. It’s a milestone—but not a surprise. If you’ve followed this team from the Sunday leagues to now, you knew this was coming. This squad has championship DNA. And I’m not just saying that as a fan—I see it in every match, every training clip, every social post. This is real. This is special.
💬 “We play for Portland, for our families, and for everyone who believes in us,” said head coach Sergio Medel after the match. And coach—we feel it. Every single game.
🚀 The Dream Continues
The next game will be a war, no doubt. But if Deportivo Rose City has shown us anything, it’s that heart, hustle, and community spirit can take you far.
La Rosa won’t fade. La Rosa won’t fold. La Rosa keeps blooming.
Let’s go, Deportivo Rose City! 🌹🔥