Austin FC ends season and fans look ahead

• After some October blowouts, fans are also looking ahead.

Catch up quick: Former two-time MLS coach of the year Jim Curtin was hired to take the helm in June, but he doesn't start until December.

State of play: The Verde and Black are guaranteed to finish second to last in the Western Conference — the team's worst-ever finish in six seasons.

• Perhaps the lone bright spot: 18-year-old Ervin Torres, a midfielder from Laredo who worked his way up from Austin FC Academy to become a regular starter.

State of play: The roster has been cleared of a few expensive players, so expect sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad to sign some newcomers in the offseason.

The latest: This week, the team acquired Finnish midfielder Eze Onuoha, who turns 18 next month.

Between the lines: Team ownership opened its wallet for several forwards in the last couple of years, but none of them panned out as hoped.

• Going into Saturday's match against Portland, the Verde and Black are tied for the third fewest goals scored this season.

What we're watching: Whether ownership says goodbye to high-dollar players who haven't met their potential to make way for a true overhaul.