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| Photo by Darla S Tamulitis La Vita Loca Photography Copyright 2020 All Rights Reserved |
Copyright 2020 All Rights Reserved
HOUSTON, TEXAS (August 21, 2020) After one hundred seventy-four days, the Houston, the Houston Dynamo returned to the pitch inside BBVA Stadium for live soccer, as they took on FC Dallas in the first match to determine the possession of the El Capitan, in the annual Texas Derby. After 90 minutes of play, neither team could seem to get an advantage, with the match ending in scoreless draw.
Due to COVID-19 issues, the match was played without fans, with on team and stadium personal and selected media were allowed in the stadium. The Dynamo had fan and supporter noise broadcast over public address system, to simulate actual game conditions.
It simulated game noise did not seem to hinder or help either team, as they constantly battled each other up and down the field, with neither team able to find a way to get the ball into their opponent's goal. The Dynamo had an 17-7 advantage in shots for the match, while keeping possession of the ball 58% for 90 minutes of play.
Houston head coach Tad Ramos stated:
“I think we did exactly what we wanted to do, which was to take possession away from them. Dallas is a team that usually has possession every game, and we wanted to make sure that we were the ones dictating the game. Overall, I have to say I’m happy with the team. There wasn’t much more I could ask from them. They made an incredible effort today – I’m happy with that. Unfortunately, we couldn’t make a goal. We had the shots and we created the chances, but the ball didn’t go in. That’s the way it goes.”
Goalkeeper Marko Maric, playing in his first Texas Derby also spoke about the draw:
“I think there would be more intensity if the stadium was full with supporters. In the end it’s a game. I know how much this means for Houston and our supporters, but in the end, us as players have to play our game. Of course, we don’t want to lose against our rival. Before we came in, we were pumped up. We know what is online. I wish I would’ve had my first derby win, but today it didn’t happen. To me, it would be much more attractive to play with supporters to see how much love we have here for this derby.”
Next up for the Dynamo is a Tuesday, August 25 road match against Sporting Kansas City. They will return to BBVA Stadium on Wednesday, September 2 with a 7 p.m. CDT meeting against Minnesota United FC.
