In a thrilling battle between Texas rivals, the Houston Dynamo emerged victorious with a commanding 2-1 win over Austin FC on Saturday night. This was the second time of the season Houston beat Austin at Shell Energy Stadium.
During the first 45 minutes both teams started the match with great energy and intensity, looking to make an early impact. The Verdes took the lead at the 22’ when Gyasi Zardes scored for the visitors, but only fifteen minutes later, Dynamo found the equalizer via Hector Herrera. The Houston captain found the ball inside the box and beat Austin goalkeeper Brad Stuver at the 37’.
Both coaches know their counterparts well. They knew that by controlling the game at midfield, their attacking side could create scoring opportunities. For this match, Dynamo’s coach Ben Olsen started Aliyu Ibrahim, Amine Bassi, and Corey Baird in the front three. Along With Herrera, ‘Coco’ Carrasquilla, and Artur at midfield they were looking for another victory at home.
On the other side, Austin’s coach Josh Wolf understood that getting a victory against a state rival was a must for a team that a few days ago was eliminated from the US Open Cup and has been struggling during the MLS season. Despite the necessity to get a good result for the away side, they were not able to settle and feel comfortable on the field throughout the match.
The second half was similar to the first one. The game was a real battle, but Houston was creating more chances on offense to get the three points of the night. Eventually, at the 88’ minute, they found the late winning goal. Ivan Franco, who came in from the bench, found an opportunity inside the box and his shot beat the Verdes goalkeeper to give his side the fifth home victory of the year to the Dynamo.
Now, Houston will have three away matches in a row. First, they will travel to Canada to face the Vancouver Whitecaps. Then, they will visit St. Louis, and finally they will travel to Chicago for an Open Cup Quarterfinals against the Fire.
Next for Austin will receive Minnesota and Real Salt Lake in two important home matches where they need to get wins before it is too late for them to comeback on the season and battle for a playoff spot.
