Houston Dash fall to Portland Thorns, 4-1

Photo courtesy of Houston Dash, Used with permission

By Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PORTLAND, OREGON (April 20, 2024) In a tough battle against the Portland Thorns, the Houston Dash came up short on the road, falling 4-1 at Providence Park on Saturday evening.

The Thorns wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Christine Sinclair netting the opener in just the sixth minute after a cross from Sophia Smith. Portland extended their lead in the 27th minute when Smith found the bottom corner with a precise strike.

But the Dash fought back after halftime, with Diana Ordóñez pulling one back in the 49th minute thanks to a well-worked combination play involving Michelle Alozie and Avery Patterson. However, Portland wasn’t done yet, adding two more goals through Olivia Moultrie and Janine Beckie to seal the win.

Despite the result, Schmidt reached a significant milestone, clocking 10,000 minutes played in the NWSL. She becomes the fourth Canadian player to achieve this feat, highlighting her consistency and dedication to the game.

Throughout the match, the Dash had their chances, with goalkeeper Jane Campbell making crucial saves to keep her team in contention. Elin Rubensson and Yuki Nagasato also came close to finding the back of the net, but Portland’s defense held firm.

Houston Dynamo FC falls to Austin FC at Shell Energy Stadium

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 20, 2024) In a tough battle at Shell Energy Stadium, Houston Dynamo FC couldn't quite find their rhythm, falling 1-0 to Austin FC. It was a hard-fought match for the Dynamo, who were playing their first league game at home since March 2.

One notable moment of the game was the return of captain Hector Herrera, who made his season debut in the 62nd minute after recovering from a knee injury. His presence on the field provided a boost for the team, but unfortunately, they couldn't secure the win.

The match's only goal came in the 86th minute when Emiliano Rigoni of Austin FC capitalized on a long ball, slotting it neatly into the far corner past the Dynamo's goalkeeper

Despite the loss, the Dynamo had several opportunities throughout the game. Midfielder Artur had the first shot on target in the seventh minute, followed by forward Amine Bassi's attempt to set up midfielder Sebastian Kowalczyk, which was blocked by Austin's defense.

Goalkeeper Steve Clark made some crucial saves for the Dynamo, including stopping a low shot from Sebastian Driussi in the 14th minute and a powerful strike from Alexander Ring in the 22nd minute.

Houston pushed hard in the second half, with Bassi and Herrera both taking shots on goal, but Austin's defense held firm. The Dynamo attempted a total of 17 shots, the highest in a league match this season, but couldn't find the back of the net.

Next up for Houston is a road trip to face FC Dallas in the Texas Derby on Saturday, April 27, followed by a home game against St. Louis CITY SC on May 4. 

Houston Dash trade Maria Sanchez to San Diego Wave FC

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 20, 2024) The Houston Dash made a big move in the world of soccer, trading forward María Sanchez (shown left) to San Diego Wave FC. But it wasn't just a simple player swap. The Dash got some serious cash and international roster spots in return.

In the trade, the Dash received a whopping $500,000 in funds, split into $300,000 for Intra-League Transfer and $200,000 in Allocation Money. Plus, they snagged an international roster spot for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

Sanchez had been with the Dash for a while. She first came on board back in 2021 on a short-term loan, then officially signed up for the team in 2022. After proving her skills on the field, she locked in a long-term deal in December 2023. During her time with the Dash, she played in 62 games and scored eight goals, showing off her knack for setting up her teammates with 14 assists.

Before landing with the Dash, Sanchez kicked off her pro career with the Chicago Red Stars after they picked her in the 2019 NWSL College Draft. She then took her talents to Mexico, playing for Chivas de Guadalajara and UANL Tigres Femenil.

This trade marks a new chapter for both Sanchez and the Dash. While Sánchez heads to San Diego to join Wave FC, the Dash are gearing up with a hefty amount of funds and roster flexibility. 

Katy Seven Lakes down Flower Mound in nail-biting state 6A final

Story and photo Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

GEORGETOWN, TEXAS (April 13, 2024) In a thrilling showdown at Birkelbach Field, Flower Mound's hopes for a second state soccer championship were dashed in a heart-pounding battle against Katy Seven Lakes. Despite a valiant effort, Flower Mound fell short in a 2-1 defeat in the UIL 6A boys state final.

The game was a true test of grit and determination, with both teams leaving everything on the field. Flower Mound, coming off a strong 2-0 semifinal victory over Austin Vandegrift, entered the final match ready to give it their all.

Coach David Doyle praised his team's resilience, noting their ability to thrive under pressure. Flower Mound found themselves trailing early but fought back fiercely, equalizing the match with a brilliant goal from Landon DeLeeuw.

However, Katy Seven Lakes proved to be a formidable opponent, with Aidan Morrison delivering a stunning 30-yard free kick in the second overtime to secure the victory. Morrison's performance showcased why he was the 2023 Gatorade National Player of the Year.

Despite being outshot by their opponents, Flower Mound refused to back down, thanks in part to the heroic efforts of goalkeeper Morgan English, who made several crucial saves throughout the match.

Olivia Hess leads Prosper Eagles to first UIL 6A soccer title

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis
La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024
All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

GEORGETOWN, TEXAS (April 13, 2024) In a thrilling showdown at Birkelbach Field on Saturday, Olivia Hess (shown right) became the hero for Prosper High School, securing the school's first-ever UIL 6A state title in girls' soccer. Hess, a talented player who has committed to Baylor, delivered the game-winning goal off a free kick with just over 26 minutes left on the clock. The Dallas-area team, with a stellar performance from goalie Maggie Manning, held on to a slim 1-0 lead against Austin Westlake.

It was a historic moment for Prosper, as they made their debut appearance in the state tournament. Their journey culminated in a championship victory, marking a significant milestone for the program. The win also extended the Dallas-area's dominance in UIL girls' soccer, with all state titles in all three classifications claimed by local teams for the third consecutive year.

Throughout the match, Prosper's defense stood strong, anchored by standout players like Beya Rosales, Rhiannon Mahon, and freshman Trinity Morrow. Their collective effort, coupled with Manning's crucial saves, kept Westlake at bay, denying them any opportunity to equalize.

Despite facing strong opposition, Prosper showcased their resilience and determination. Although they were unlucky to hit the crossbar twice in the first half, including a powerful strike from Hess, they remained focused and composed.

Westlake, despite their best efforts, fell short in their quest for a state title, extending their drought to four state-tournament appearances without a championship win. Despite a valiant effort, they couldn't break through Prosper's formidable defense.

As the final whistle blew, jubilation swept through the Prosper camp, celebrating a historic triumph. For Hess and her teammates, their hard work and dedication had paid off, etching their names into the annals of their school's history with a memorable victory.

Midlothian Panthers make history with first-ever UIL state soccer championship

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

GEORGETOWN, TEXAS (April 13, 2024) The Midlothian High School Panthers boys soccer team achieved a remarkable feat on Saturday, securing its first-ever state UIL Division 5A state title in program history in a thrilling 3-1 victory over Frisco Wakeland at Birkelbach Field. 

The win marked the culmination of a remarkable journey for the team, which advanced to its first state tournament appearance and then swiftly progressed to the title game within a span of just 48 hours. Senior forward Landon Exley became the hero of the day with a crucial goal in the 79th minute, assisted by Ayden Hildreth, sealing the victory for Midlothian. Head coach Austin Guest attributed the team’s success to their collective effort and hard work throughout the playoffs, highlighting the players' commitment to working together as a unit.

The championship match saw a dramatic turn of events, with Wakeland taking an early lead courtesy of senior midfielder Thomas Hayes. However, Midlothian quickly responded, with senior midfielder Caden Naizer leveling the score with a penalty kick just a minute later. The teams remained deadlocked at one goal apiece heading into halftime.

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis
La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

Midlothian came out strong in the second half, with Hildreth’s header off a corner kick by Naizer in the 46th minute giving them the lead. Hildreth (shown left), who finished the regular season as one of the top scorers in the Dallas area, earned the game's MVP honors for his outstanding performance.

The victory over Wakeland, a perennial soccer powerhouse, marks a significant milestone for Midlothian, which demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the tournament. Senior goalkeeper Kyle Allen played a crucial role in securing the win, making eight saves in the title game.

For the Panthers, the road to the championship was paved with challenges, including a tough semifinal match against Baytown Goose Creek Memorial, which they won 3-0. Junior midfielder Marcus Manu, Naizer, and Hildreth each contributed a goal in the semifinal victory.

The triumph over Wakeland also carries historical significance for the Dallas-area soccer scene, marking the first time since 2021 that a Frisco ISD school did not claim the boys soccer state title. Wakeland, a nine-time state finalist, has been a dominant force in Texas high school soccer, but Midlothian's victory underscores the team's determination and resilience.

Frisco Wakeland claims another girl's state title

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

GEORGETOWN, TEXAS (April 13, 2024) The Frisco Wakeland girls soccer team (shown left) clinched another state championship in a thrilling showdown against Colleyville Heritage. The UIL Division 5A game, held at Birkelbach Field, saw Wakeland secure a 3-2 victory, marking their fourth state title since 2018.

The magic started in the 47th minute when sophomore forward Audrey Gilbert scored a header, assisted by sophomore defender Sophie Altieri. Gilbert, who was named the match's MVP, wasn't done yet, adding another goal in the 63rd minute off a pass from sophomore midfielder Finley McKnight. Though Colleyville Heritage fought back with two late goals, Wakeland's Anna Carrera sealed the win in the 68th minute.

Wakeland's journey to the championship was marked by dominant performances. They shut out all five playoff opponents leading up to the final, showcasing their defensive prowess. Goalkeeper Claire Manis came up big in the penalty shootout against Leander Rouse, making two crucial saves to secure their spot in the title game.

With only five seniors on the roster, Wakeland's success speaks to the depth and talent of their team. They maintained an impressive average of 4.5 goals per game during the regular season while allowing just 0.6 goals on average from opponents.

The championship match highlighted the strength of girls soccer in the Dallas area, with Wakeland and Colleyville Heritage continuing the tradition of competitive matchups. This year's final marked the third consecutive year that Dallas-area teams faced off for the 5A title.

For Colleyville Heritage, despite a valiant effort, it wasn't their year to reclaim the championship. However, their journey to the final showcased their offensive prowess and marked their first appearance in the title game since 2011.

Shelton secures second career title in thrilling US Clay Court Champs

Photo by si.robi via Wikipedia and Flicka
Used with Permission

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 7, 2024) In a gripping showdown at the River Oaks Country Club on Sunday, Ben Shelton emerged victorious over Frances Tiafoe to claim his second career title at the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston. The 21-year-old American sensation displayed remarkable skill and determination, defeating the defending champion in a hard-fought three-set battle.

Shelton's victory marks a significant milestone in his young career, making him the youngest US Clay champion since Andy Roddick in 2002. With this win, he joins an esteemed list of American champions, becoming the seventh in the last decade to hoist the prestigious trophy.

Adding to the family legacy, Shelton follows in the footsteps of his father and coach, Bryan Shelton, who clinched the singles title at River Oaks in 1992. This familial connection adds an extra layer of significance to Ben's triumph, underscoring the depth of talent within the Shelton tennis dynasty.

The final match showcased the resilience and skill of both players, with Tiafoe putting up a valiant fight in his quest to become the first repeat US Clay champion since Steve Johnson's back-to-back wins in 2017-18. Despite Tiafoe's formidable efforts, Shelton's unwavering determination and composure ultimately secured the victory.

Shelton's ascent to the top of the ATP Rankings is now all but assured, with his projected career-high ranking of No. 14 set to be confirmed in Monday's update. This achievement cements his status as one of the rising stars of American tennis and sets the stage for further success in the future.