Houston Dash battle back to earn 2-2 draw against Bay FC

Photo courtesy of Houston Dash

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 24, 2025)  The Houston Dash ended their two-game homestand with a 2-2 draw against Bay FC on Saturday afternoon at Shell Energy Stadium. It was a back-and-forth game, but the Dash showed heart and finished strong to earn a point.

Houston took the lead in the 33rd minute thanks to a great team play. Midfielder Bárbara Olivieri dribbled past four Bay FC defenders and passed to defender Avery Patterson. Patterson controlled the ball outside the box and scored with a powerful shot to the top corner. It was her second goal of the season.

Bay FC tied the game in the 53rd minute when Penelope Hocking broke past the Dash defense and scored. Just minutes later, a turnover by the Dash led to another Bay goal. Racheal Kundananji found Rachel Hill at the near post to put Bay FC ahead 2-1.

The Dash didn’t give up. In the 88th minute, Olivieri and forward Messiah Bright worked a smooth passing play near midfield. Bright dribbled toward the box and sent a low shot into the far corner for her first goal of the season. Olivieri now has two assists on the year.

The Dash had chances to win the game. In the 91st minute, midfielder Kiki Van Zanten hit the post, and moments later Maggie Graham also hit the woodwork.

Goalkeeper Abby Smith had a solid night, finishing with six saves. She stopped a header in the 35th minute and stayed busy all match.

The Dash now hold a 1-1-1 all-time record against Bay FC. They’ll travel to San Jose for a rematch on August 2.

Up next, the Dash hit the road to face the Orlando Pride on Saturday, June 7. They return home on Friday, June 13 to host San Diego FC.