RENO, Nev. – Reno 1868 FC has moved on to the USL eCup: Rocket League Edition’s 16-team knockout stage after a 6-2, 4-3 win over Louisville City FC. Reno representative Brad Palonsky came back from a 3-1 deficit with 50 seconds to play in game two, scoring two goals to send it to overtime. Over a minute into the sudden-death overtime, Palonsky dribbled around Louisville to walk a gam-winner into the net.

“Crazy finish, really excited for Brad to have a game-winner like that,” said team captain Kevin Bass. “Next up is the knockout round, and we can’t wait. I don’t think anyone around the league really knows what we’re capable of. We look forward to showing them we’re here to win.”

Palonsky opened up strong, scoring four goals in the first two minutes without allowing a goal. Louisville would answer, knocking in two goals to cut the lead in half. With just over a minute to go, Palonsky would quiet the comeback bid with a goal to make it 5-2. After a goal with four seconds left in the game, Reno took game one 6-2.

Game two was much more of a battle, with Louisville taking a 3-1 lead. In the final 45 seconds, Palonsky would come alive and push the game to overtime after a tying goal with 17 seconds to go.

After a tense minute of sudden-death overtime, Palonsky took control of the ball just on the Louisville side of midfield. Keeping the ball on the ground, Palonsky dribbled around a hapless Louisville and drove the winning goal straight into the net.

 “He came out of the gate swinging, and when Louisville had a counter he kept his composure and was able to finish strong,” said Bass. “The game’s all about momentum, and when Louisville had it he was able to take it right back and come away with the win.”

Next up for Reno is a yet-to-be-determined knockout stage game next week, streamed on ESPN3. Reno’s representative has not yet been determined.

Reno’s run to the eCup group stage is in support of the Food Bank of Northern Nevada, and all fans are encouraged to donate here if they are able.