Houston Dynamo FC settle for late match draw against LA Galaxy

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Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La  Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (September 6, 2025)  Houston Dynamo FC looked set for three points on Saturday night, but a late goal from the LA Galaxy forced a 1-1 draw at Shell Energy Stadium. The result leaves Houston just two points shy of the playoff line in the Western Conference.

The Dynamo grabbed the lead in the 35th minute thanks to a bit of class from Ezequiel Ponce (shown above right). Midfielder Ondřej Lingr floated a ball over the top, and the Argentine striker nodded it forward before calmly finishing into the bottom corner. The goal was Ponce’s ninth of the season and his second in back-to-back games.

Houston nearly doubled its advantage before halftime when Lawrence Ennali broke free in the box, but his two efforts were blocked by Galaxy defenders. After the break, Duane Holmes came close with a bending free kick from 30 yards that whistled just wide.

The Galaxy thought they had leveled late in the second half, but an offside flag canceled out Gabriel Pec’s finish. Houston’s defense held strong until stoppage time, when John Nelson met a cross at the far post and headed in the heartbreaking equalizer in the 99th minute.

Houston, now 8-12-9 (33 points), will look to rebound on the road next Saturday, September 13, against the Colorado Rapids. 

Dynamo Fall 2-1 to San Jose despite Antonio Carlos goal

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (August 23, 2025)  Houston Dynamo FC came up short on Saturday night, falling 2-1 to the San Jose Earthquakes at Shell Energy Stadium. The match was themed "Kids Night" with the mascots of Houston-area professional sports teams (shown right) in attendance to entertain the fans and support the Dynamo.

Defender Antonio Carlos scored his first goal Houston, but it wasn’t enough to secure needed team points. San Jose struck first in the 28th minute when DeJuan Jones whipped a ball into the box. After a couple of quick touches, Cristian Arango guided it into the net to give the Quakes the lead. They doubled that advantage in the 64th minute. A corner kick found Daniel Munie, who headed the ball across the box. Ian Harkes met it with a clean strike from just outside the area, making it 2-0.

Houston pulled one back in the 72nd minute. Midfielder Jack McGlynn, who leads the team in assists, delivered a perfect corner kick from the right side. Carlos rose above the defense and powered a header past San Jose goalkeeper Daniel de Sousa Britto. The goal marked his first for Houston since joining this summer and his fifth career goal overall.

The Dynamo had several chances to tie the game late. Ezequiel Ponce thought he had equalized in first-half stoppage time, but his header was ruled offside. In the second half, Griffin Dorsey and Ponce pushed the attack, while goalkeeper Jonathan Bond made key saves to keep Houston within reach.

Despite heavy pressure in the final minutes, the Dynamo couldn’t break through again.

Houston now looks ahead to a road trip against St. Louis CITY SC on Saturday, August 30. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CT at Energizer Park.

Houston Dynamo FC face Vancouver Whitecaps FC in playoff push

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

VANCOUVER BC, CANADA (August 16, 2025)  Houston Dynamo FC is gearing up for a big match against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Sunday, August 17, at 8:00 p.m. CT at BC Place. This is the last of two road games for the Dynamo, who are fighting to make the playoffs with only nine games left in the regular season.

Last time these teams met at BC Place, Houston won a thrilling 4-3 game. Defender Griffin Dorsey scored twice, including the winning goal in the 87th minute. Former Dynamo players Adalberto “Coco” Carrasquilla and Brad Smith also scored, and forward Ezequiel Ponce made his debut that night. The Dynamo hope to repeat that exciting performance.

Head coach Ben Olsen is close to a huge milestone. He needs just one more win to reach 150 career MLS regular season victories. 

After this road trip, Houston returns home to Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday, August 23 to face the San Jose Earthquakes. 

Houston Dynamo FC secures draw against Austin FC

Photo courtesy of Houston Dynamo FC, Used with permission.

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (August 9, 2025)  Houston Dynamo FC showed true fight on Saturday night, coming back from two goals down to earn a 2-2 draw against state rival Austin FC at Q2 Stadium. Midfielder Jack McGlynn was the hero for Houston, scoring both goals, while goalkeeper Jonathan Bond made big saves to keep Houston in the match.

Austin took the lead in the 31st minute after Bond made a quick save, but the rebound fell to Ilie Sanchez, who finished from close range. The home side doubled their advantage in the 41st minute when Guilherme Biro headed in a cross from Osman Bukari.

The Dynamo kept pushing and finally found a way back in the 80th minute. VAR confirmed a foul on defender Pablo Ortiz inside the box, and McGlynn stepped up to score the penalty with a left-footed shot to the right side of the net.

Houston’s persistence paid off again in the 89th minute. Forward Lawrence Ennali, making his first assist for the club, set up McGlynn at the top of the box. His shot deflected off an Austin defender and rolled into the net for his fifth goal of the season.

Defender Antonio Carlos made his Dynamo debut, coming on at halftime. The 32-year-old joined Houston last week from Brazilian club Fluminense FC and has years of MLS experience with Orlando City SC, including a key role in their 2022 U.S. Open Cup win.

Houston created chances throughout the match. In the 17th minute, McGlynn set up Felipe Andrade for a header that Brad Stuver saved. Andrade tried again from distance in the 21st minute but was stopped by the Austin goalkeeper. In the 73rd minute, Griffin Dorsey found Ondrej Lingr for a clever back-heel flick that forced another save.

Bond also came up big in the 85th minute, racing off his line to block a Bukari shot.

Houston Dynamo shut out 3-0 by Vancouver Whitecaps

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 16, 2025)  The Houston Dynamo FC fell 3-0 to Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Wednesday night at Shell Energy Stadium. Despite several promising chances, the Dynamo couldn’t find the back of the net and suffered a tough loss in front of their home crowd.

The match saw a special moment for forward Lawrence Ennali, who made his first home start since returning from a season-ending knee injury last September. The 23-year-old looked sharp and created a few chances, but the Dynamo came up short.

Vancouver opened the scoring early in the 4th minute. Emmanuel Sabbi took advantage of a rebound in the box after Houston goalkeeper Jonathan Bond made an initial diving save. The Whitecaps added a second goal in the 42nd minute when Sebastian Berhalter fired in a long shot off a pass from Brian White.

The final goal came in the 56th minute. After Felipe Andrade was called for a foul inside the box, White stepped up to take the penalty. Bond saved the first shot, but White followed it up and scored on the rebound.

Bond had a busy night in goal, making four saves to keep Houston in the match. He stopped strong shots from Tate Johnson and Daniel Rios early in the first half, including a one-on-one play in the 13th minute.

Houston had chances to score. Ezequiel Ponce headed a cross just wide in the 26th minute. Ennali nearly scored twice in the first half, and Jack McGlynn also forced two diving saves from Vancouver goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka, one in the 67th minute and another in stoppage time.

Despite their efforts, Houston couldn’t close the gap.

The Dynamo will look to bounce back on Saturday, July 19, when they host the Philadelphia Union in another home match at Shell Energy Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CT.

MLS All-Stars ready for big match against LIGA MX

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (July 13, 2025) The 2025 MLS All-Star Game is almost here, and fans are getting excited. This year, 26 of the league’s best players will face off against top stars from Mexico’s LIGA MX. The big game will take place on July 23 at Austin FC’s Q2 Stadium. Kickoff is at 8 p.m. CT, and it will be shown on MLS Season Pass.

The roster was picked in three ways. Twelve players were voted in by fans, media, and players. Another 12 were picked by MLS All-Star coach Nico Estévez. Two final players were selected by MLS Commissioner Don Garber.

Some of the biggest names on the list include Lionel Messi from Inter Miami and Denis Bouanga from LAFC. Messi, who was voted in, is one of the most successful soccer players in the world. Bouanga also had a strong season and brings speed and goal-scoring power.

In goal, Dayne St. Clair from Minnesota United was voted in, while Brad Stuver of Austin FC and Yohei Takaoka of Vancouver were chosen by the coach.

The defense includes top players like Jordi Alba of Inter Miami and Michael Boxall of Minnesota, both voted in. Coach Estévez also picked players like Jakob Glesnes of Philadelphia and Andy Najar of Nashville.

The midfield is filled with talent too. Diego Luna from Real Salt Lake and Evander from FC Cincinnati were voted in. Sebastian Berhalter from Vancouver also made it in by vote. Other picks include Jeppe Tverskov from San Diego FC and David Da Costa from Portland.

The forwards are full of firepower. Along with Messi and Bouanga, voters picked Brian White of Vancouver and Tai Baribo from Philadelphia. Commissioner Don Garber added Patrick Agyemang of Charlotte FC and Chucky Lozano of San Diego FC.

Houston Dynamo fall 1-0 to Real Salt Lake

Photo Credit: Houston Dynamo FC

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

SANDY, UTAH (July 12, 2025)  

Houston Dynamo FC dropped a tight match on the road Saturday night, losing 1-0 to Real Salt Lake at America First Field. Both teams had 17 shots in the game, but a first-half goal from William Agada made the difference.

Dynamo goalkeeper Jonathan Bond made four big saves to keep Houston in the game. In the 7th minute, defender Ethan Bartlow (shown right above) cleared a shot off the goal line, and Bond followed it up with a diving stop seconds later. Bond also made key saves in the 24th, 41st, and late in stoppage time to stop a bicycle kick.

Houston had several chances to tie the game. Felipe Andrade had the team’s first shot on goal in the 18th minute. Jack McGlynn, who just returned from helping the U.S. in the Gold Cup, set up multiple chances, including headers from Ezequiel Ponce and shots from Franco Escobar.

Houston wore black armbands to honor lives lost in recent Texas floods. The club also helped donate $500,000 toward relief efforts, teaming up with MLS and Texas teams.

The Dynamo will now return home to Shell Energy Stadium for two matches next week, facing Vancouver Whitecaps FC on July 16 and the Philadelphia Union on July 19.

Houston Dynamo FC drop 2-0 decision to LAFC

Photo credit: Houston Dynamo FC

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

LOS ANGELES,  CALIFORNIA (May 3, 2025) The Houston Dynamo FC lost 2-0 to Los Angeles FC on Saturday night at MBO Stadium in Los Angeles. This game ended a five-game streak where the Dynamo had not lost to LAFC.

LAFC scored their first goal in the 10th minute. Nathan Ordaz kicked in a loose ball in the box. Their second goal came late in the 79th minute, when Jeremy Ebobisse scored with a strong left-footed shot.

Even though Houston lost, goalkeeper Jonathan Bond had a big night. He made six saves in the first half, tying a team record. He finished with eight saves total.

Captain José Artur de Lima Junior made his 200th regular season start in MLS. It was a special moment for the veteran midfielder.

Defender Franco Escobar got a red card in stoppage time after receiving his second yellow. He will miss the Dynamo’s next MLS match.

Houston had a few chances to score. In the 65th minute, Escobar crossed the ball to Ondřej Lingr, who headed it just wide of the goal.

The Dynamo now turn their focus to the U.S. Open Cup. They’ll face Phoenix Rising FC on Wednesday, May 7, in Arizona. The game kicks off at 9:00 p.m. CT.

Ondřej Lingr scores late equalizer in Dynamo debut to secure 2-2 draw

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 19, 2025) Houston Dynamo FC earned a dramatic 2-2 draw over the Colorado Rapids at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday night, thanks to a last-minute goal from new midfielder Ondřej Lingr.

Lingr, who joined the Dynamo from SK Slavia Prague last month, made his debut in the 75th minute, making an instant impact by scoring in the 96th minute to tie the game. The play started with midfielder Jack McGlynn sending a deep ball into the box. Defender Franco Escobar headed it across goal to Lingr, who dove to head the ball into the far corner.

Forward Amine Bassi (shown above) gave Houston the lead earlier in the night with a goal in the 42nd minute. The play began with defender Griffin Dorsey and midfielder Sebastian Kowalczyk working a quick passing move to find Bassi in the middle of the box. It was Bassi’s second goal of the season. Kowalczyk now has assists in back-to-back matches.

The Rapids tied the game in the 59th minute after a penalty was called against Houston defender Femi Awodesu. Djordje Mihailovic scored from the spot to make it 1-1. Mihailovic helped Colorado take the lead again in the 77th minute, setting up Rafael Navarro for a goal to the far post.

The match also marked the debut of goalkeeper Jonathan Bond, who recently joined from Watford FC. Bond made a key save in the 20th minute, stopping a close-range shot from Mihailovic.

Kowalczyk nearly scored early in the game after a pass from Bassi, but his low shot was saved by Rapids keeper Zach Steffen. McGlynn also had a good chance in the 24th minute, but Steffen was there to block it.

Houston head coach Ben Olsen stated after the match:

“It was a great moment for him (Ondřej Lingr) to score the equalizer at theend. The substitutes came in and gave us really good energy. We played at a high level for large portions of the match tonight. We are growing, creating chances and looking more like us in the way we want to play. We are just making it hard for ourselves, but it sure beats losing. But it doesn't beat winning.”

The Dynamo will stay home next week to face in-state rivals Austin FC on Saturday, April 26. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CT at Shell Energy Stadium.

Houston Dynamo FC earn 1-1 draw on the road against LA Galaxy

Photo courtesy of Houston Dynamo FC

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

CARSON, CALIFORNIA (April 13, 2025) The Houston Dynamo FC picked up a point on the road Saturday night, earning a 1-1 draw against the LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park.

Forward Ezequiel Ponce (shown right) scored his second goal of the season in the 14th minute to give the Dynamo an early lead. The play started with midfielder Sebastian Kowalczyk driving into the box and passing to forward Amine Bassi. Bassi then found Ponce near the goal, and the striker finished the play with a strong shot. It was Bassi’s first assist of the season.

The match was also special for Dynamo head coach Ben Olsen. It marked his 100th match in charge of the team across all competitions. He becomes just the third coach in club history to reach that number.

The Galaxy tied the match in the 57th minute with a free kick goal by Diego Fagundez.

The home team had to play with only 10 players for most of the game. Defender Zanka was given a red card in the 28th minute after a hard foul on Ponce just outside the box.

Houston had other chances to score. In the 6th minute, Ponce had a free kick that just missed. In the 61st minute, he came close again when his header hit the post. Midfielder Jack McGlynn also had a late chance, but his long shot went just over the crossbar in the 91st minute.

Goalkeeper Blake Gillingham made a big save in the first half, stopping a one-on-one shot in the 19th minute.

The Dynamo will return home next weekend. They host the Colorado Rapids on Saturday, April 19 at Shell Energy Stadium for Space City Night.

Houston Dynamo FC downs LAFC 1-0

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 5, 2025) Houston Dynamo FC picked up a big win on Saturday night, beating LAFC 1-0 at Shell Energy Stadium. Midfielder Jack McGlynn scored the only goal of the game, giving the Dynamo their third clean sheet of the season.

McGlynn, who also plays for the U.S. Men’s National Team, scored in the 58th minute. He hit a strong left-footed shot from outside the box that landed in the bottom right corner of the goal. Defender Griffin Dorsey got the assist, his second of the year.

McGlynn almost scored earlier in the match, testing LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in the 10th minute with a powerful shot.

Rookie goalkeeper Blake Gillingham played a strong game for Houston. He made two big saves to keep LAFC off the scoreboard. His first came in the 35th minute, when he stopped a close-range shot with his foot. His second was in the 80th minute, diving high to stop a tough header from LAFC’s Eddie Segura.

This win keeps the Dynamo’s streak alive. They are now unbeaten in their last five regular season games against LAFC and have not allowed a goal in any of them. Houston has outscored Los Angeles 8-0 over that time.

Next, the Dynamo travel to California to play the LA Galaxy on Saturday, April 12.

Houston Dynamo falls 2-1 to Real Salt Lake at Shell Energy Stadium

Photo by Houston Dynamo FC, Used with permission

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 15, 2025) Houston Dynamo FC came up short in a tough 2-1 loss against Real Salt Lake at Shell Energy Stadium. Despite a strong effort, the Dynamo couldn’t find a late equalizer.

Real Salt Lake struck early, scoring in the first minute when Emake Eneli set up Diego Goncalves for a quick goal. Houston responded in the 16th minute when Ezequiel Ponce scored his first goal of the season. Midfielder Jack McGlynn delivered a perfect free-kick to the back post, where Ponce’s strong header found the net.

Salt Lake regained the lead just before halftime. Diego Luna finished a cross from Dominik Marczuk with a header, making it 2-1.

The game saw a key moment in the 37th minute when Dynamo goalkeeper Andrew Tarbell left with an injury. Jimmy Maurer made his club debut as a replacement and later made a big save in the 53rd minute to keep Houston in the match.

Houston nearly took the lead earlier in the game, but Amine Bassi’s 20th-minute goal was overturned by VAR for offside. In the 88th minute, Ethan Bartlow had a close chance to tie the game, but his header was saved and hit the post.

The Dynamo will next face the El Salvador National Team in a friendly on March 19 before returning to league action against the Seattle Sounders on March 22.

Houston Dynamo FC sign goalkeeper Blake Gillingham

Photo courtesy of Houston Dynamo FC

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (February 14, 2025)  Houston Dynamo FC has added a new goalkeeper to their squad, signing Blake Gillingham through the 2025 season. The club also has options to keep him through 2028.

Gillingham, a 22-year-old from San Jose, California, joins the team after playing college soccer at Creighton University and Santa Clara University. He had an impressive college career, making 33 appearances between the two schools. In his final season with the Creighton Bluejays, he started all 18 matches, recorded 48 saves, and had four shutouts. 

“Blake is a young goalkeeper who worked hard in preseason to earn his spot,” said Dynamo President of Soccer Pat Onstad. “He will give us depth at the position, and we are excited for him to learn from some of the best in the league.”

Gillingham showed his talent early in college. In his sophomore year at Creighton, he became the starter midway through the season and made 46 saves in 11 matches. Before transferring to Creighton, he spent a season at Santa Clara University, where he played four matches and recorded his first college shutout in a game against UC Davis.

Gillingham is known for his quick reflexes, strong hands, and ability to organize his defense. He played club soccer with De Anza Force SC in Northern California and attended Bellarmine College Prep.

Houston Dynamo FC season ends in heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Seattle Sounders FC

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 (November 3, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC’s season came to a dramatic close at Shell Energy Stadium after a tough penalty shootout loss to Seattle Sounders FC. After 120 intense minutes of regulation and extra time, the game was tied 1-1. But in the penalty shootout, Seattle edged out Houston 7-6, ending the Dynamo’s 2024 playoff run in Game 2 of the Round One Best-of-3 series of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs.

The match was full of emotion and high-stakes moments. In the final minutes of regulation, Seattle’s Cristian Roldan put the Sounders on top, scoring in the 87th minute to break a scoreless tie. Houston responded quickly, however, forcing an own goal from Seattle in stoppage time. Defender Griffin Dorsey sent a pass into the box that ended up in the back of the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and keeping the Dynamo’s hopes alive.

The penalty shootout that followed was tense, with each team converting their attempts until Houston’s seventh shot. Dynamo defender Tate Schmitt stepped up, but Seattle’s goalkeeper Stefan Frei made a crucial save, diving to his right and blocking the shot with his legs. That save clinched the series for Seattle and ended the Dynamo’s hopes for a deeper playoff run.

Houston showed plenty of resilience throughout the game, even after playing with only 10 men for the final 25 minutes. For the second match in a row, a Dynamo player received a red card, forcing the team to finish shorthanded. In this game, captain Héctor Herrera was sent off after a review from the video assistant referee (VAR) found him guilty of unsporting behavior. In Game 1, it was midfielder Adalberto “Coco” Carrasquilla who received a red card, keeping him out of Game 2. Despite this challenge, the Dynamo battled hard to keep the game close.

Houston’s playoff journey this season comes as part of a strong campaign. The team earned the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference with a record of 15 wins, 10 losses, and 9 draws, setting club records for both road wins (8) and points in a season (54). This was the second year in a row that the Dynamo made it to the playoffs, a back-to-back feat they hadn’t achieved since 2013.

There were several close chances for Houston to score in regulation. In the first half, Herrera connected with defender Erik Sviatchenko, whose header was on target. Forward Ezequiel Ponce nearly scored twice, with one shot cleared off the line by Seattle’s defense and another saved by Frei. Herrera himself took a shot from outside the box in the 58th minute, which forced Frei to make another save. Forward Aliyu Ibrahim also tested the Seattle goalkeeper, adding to the pressure.

Goalkeeper Steve Clark, making his 20th postseason appearance, played a big role for the Dynamo as well. His experience kept Houston in the game, and he made several key stops to give his team a chance.

In the end, Houston’s season ends in disappointment, but fans can be proud of the team’s fight and determination. As they look to the future, the Dynamo can build on this season’s achievements and look forward to more playoff runs in the years to come.

Houston Dynamo FC set for playoff battle against Seattle Sounders FC

By Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (October 20, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC is heading back to the playoffs! They will face the Seattle Sounders FC in Game 1 of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs. The match will take place on Monday, Oct. 28, at 8:00 p.m. CT in Seattle. This is the first game in the Round One Best-of-3 Series. Fans can expect an exciting showdown as these two teams go head-to-head for a chance to advance in the tournament.

After the first game in Seattle, the Dynamo will return to Houston to play Game 2 on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 5:30 p.m. CT at Shell Energy Stadium. Tickets for this crucial game are available starting at $25 on SeatGeek. Fans attending the match will receive a free playoff rally towel, courtesy of Shell Energy, to help cheer on the team.

If the series is tied after two games, Game 3 will be held back in Seattle on Sunday, Nov. 10, at 6:00 p.m. CT. This game would decide who moves forward in the playoffs.

Houston Dynamo enters the playoffs as the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference. They finished the regular season with a record of 15-10-9, earning 54 points. The team also set a new club record for total points in a single season and road wins, with eight victories away from home.

In their last regular-season game, the Dynamo defeated LA Galaxy 2-1 on Decision Day, securing their playoff spot. Their opponent, Seattle Sounders, finished as the No. 4 seed with a 16-9-9 record and 57 points. This gives Seattle homefield advantage for Game 1 and Game 3, if necessary.

This is the third time Houston and Seattle have faced off in the playoffs. The Sounders currently hold a 2-1-1 record against the Dynamo in postseason play. The two teams met twice during the regular season this year. The Dynamo secured a 2-2 draw in Houston back in June but lost 1-0 in Seattle in September.

The Round One Best-of-3 Series features the top seven teams from each conference, along with two Wild Card teams. Every team in this round gets at least one home game, giving fans a chance to see their team play on their turf. If Houston can win two out of three games against Seattle, they’ll move on to the next round.

Houston Dynamo FC earn last-minute win against LA Galaxy on Decision Day

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (October 19, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC ended their regular season on a high note with a thrilling 2-1 victory over LA Galaxy in front of a sold-out crowd at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday. The game had a dramatic finish, with defender Daniel Steres scoring the match-winning goal deep into stoppage time.

The win allowed Houston to set a new club record for points in a season, finishing with 54 points, breaking their previous record of 53 from 2012. With this victory, the Dynamo secured the 5th seed in the Western Conference and are now headed to the MLS playoffs. Their next challenge will be against the 4th-seeded Seattle Sounders FC in a Best-of-3 series starting next week.

The game’s first big moment came late in the first half. In the 44th minute, Houston's forward Ezequiel Ponce found the back of the net. The play began with a free-kick from team captain Hector Herrera, which bounced off defender Erik Sviatchenko and landed perfectly for Ponce to score. It was his fifth goal of the season, and it gave Houston a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

LA Galaxy fought back and got a penalty kick in stoppage time after a video review showed that Houston’s midfielder Artur committed a foul inside the box. Gabriel Pec stepped up and converted the penalty, tying the game 1-1. With both teams level, it looked like the game was headed for a draw.

But Houston wasn’t done yet. In the 11th minute of second-half stoppage time, Steres, a former Galaxy player, rose above the defense to head home a cross from Griffin Dorsey. His goal sent the Houston fans into celebration as the Dynamo snatched the win in dramatic fashion.

Throughout the game, both teams had plenty of chances. In the 16th minute, Houston’s midfielder Adalberto “Coco” Carrasquilla fired a shot that was blocked right at the goal line by a Galaxy defender. Forward Amine Bassi also set up some good scoring opportunities, but Galaxy goalkeeper John McCarthy made key saves to keep his team in the game.

Houston’s goalkeeper Steve Clark was also busy. He made a crucial save in the 18th minute, diving to stop a shot from Galaxy’s Joseph Paintsil. Clark continued to play well throughout the game, finishing with four important saves.

LA Galaxy thought they had tied the game earlier in the second half when Paintsil scored, but the goal was overturned after a VAR review showed a foul in the build-up.

Houston Dynamo FC drops close match to Toronto FC

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

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (August 24, 2024)  Houston Dynamo FC lost a close game to Toronto FC, 1-0, at Shell Energy Stadium. Despite controlling the ball for most of the match and taking twice as many shots as Toronto, the Dynamo couldn't find the back of the net.

The game’s only goal came in the 54th minute when Toronto's Prince Owusu scored with a header that deflected off Dynamo defender Griffin Dorsey. The ball bounced into the goal, leaving Dynamo goalkeeper helpless.

The Dynamo started strong, creating their first big chance in the ninth minute. Héctor Herrera sent a through ball to forward Aliyu Ibrahim, who crossed it into the box. Unfortunately, Toronto’s defense blocked the chance.

Forward Ezequiel Ponce had Houston’s first shot on target after Herrera set him up from a set piece. Ponce’s quick shot forced Toronto goalkeeper Sean Johnson to make a tough save. Another good chance came in the 16th minute when Dorsey fired a powerful volley, but the ball went just wide of the post.

Houston’s defense also had a big moment when Erik Sviatchenko took a shot from outside the box in the 21st minute. His shot was heading for the top corner, but Johnson was there again to make a quick save.

The Dynamo almost tied the game in the 62nd minute. After a goal-line clearance by Toronto, the ball fell to defender Franco Escobar, who struck it hard, but it hit the crossbar.

Dynamo forward Lawrence Ennali made his debut in this game, marking an important moment for the team. Despite the loss, Houston remains in the playoff race with nine games left, five of which will be at home.

The Dynamo will next travel to Los Angeles to face LAFC on Saturday, August 31, before returning home for a rematch on September 7.

Houston Dynamo FC sends Charlotte FC home with 1-0 loss

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 (June 29, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC continued their impressive run with a 1-0 win against Charlotte FC at Shell Energy Stadium, thanks to a quick goal by forward Aliyu Ibrahim (shown left).

The victory keeps the Dynamo undefeated in their last six matches, during which they have scored 14 goals. Ibrahim’s goal came in the fifth minute, marking his fifth of the season. The play began with a pass from forward Amine Bassi to Sebas Ferreira, who set up Ibrahim for the decisive shot.

Goalkeeper Steve Clark played a pivotal role in securing the win, making crucial saves throughout the match. His first big stop came in the eighth minute, blocking a strong attempt from Charlotte’s Kerwin Vargas. Clark ended the night with four saves, ensuring a fourth clean sheet for the team this season.

Clark stated after the match, "It's good to win at home, and we needed the points. We played one of our best games on the ball, and the guys performed really well tonight. It was a joy to watch, and I had a good seat for most of it."

Defender Franco Escobar earned a free kick in the 27th minute, giving captain Héctor Herrera a chance to score. Herrera’s shot was on target, but Charlotte’s goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina made the save. Clark was tested again in the 29th minute but handled the challenge easily.

Houston continued to press in the second half, with Griffin Dorsey nearly doubling the lead in the 48th minute. His shot, however, went just over the bar.

Charlotte tried to equalize, with their best chance coming in the 59th minute. Clark made a crucial save, deflecting the shot and then recovering the rebound. He made another significant save in the 75th minute, diving to stop a powerful shot from Liel Abada.

With this win, Houston Dynamo FC will head to Real Salt Lake for their next match on Wednesday, July 3. Kickoff is at 8:30 p.m. CT at America First Field.

Houston Dynamo FC earns 1-1 draw gainst FC Dallas in Texas Derby

Photo credit: Houston Dynamo FC

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 18, 2024) In an exciting match at Shell Energy Stadium, Houston Dynamo FCHouston Dynamo FC secured a 1-1 draw against their in-state rivals, FC DallasFC Dallas, in the second leg of the Texas Derby. This result extended Houston's impressive home unbeaten streak against Dallas to 11 matches, dating back to August 2016.

Houston Dynamo took the lead in first-half stoppage time. Captain Héctor Herrera made a sharp pass to defender Daniel Steres, who then quickly sent the ball to forward Amine BassiAmine Bassi in the middle of the penalty box. Bassi wasted no time, scoring his first goal of the season with a swift shot.

However, FC Dallas found the equalizer in the 69th minute. Bernard Kamungo passed to Petar MusaPetar Musa, who was positioned at the edge of the six-yard box. Musa directed the ball into the net, leveling the score.

Houston's goalkeeper, Steve Clark, made an important save early in the match, stopping a shot from Kamungo in just the second minute. Clark was solid throughout, making two key saves before leaving the match in the 73rd minute due to an accidental hit from his teammate, Artur. Andrew Tarbell replaced Clark, making his first appearance of the season.

Midfielder Artur had some strong chances for Houston, taking powerful shots in the 16th and 35th minutes, but Dallas goalkeeper Maarten Paes was up to the task each time. Herrera and Carrasquilla also tested Paes with long-range shots in first-half stoppage time.

Houston nearly scored again in the 43rd minute when Herrera’s corner kick found defender Erik Sviatchenko, but his header went just wide. Forward Aliyu Ibrahim had a close attempt in the 60th minute, but his shot was saved by Paes.

In the final minutes, Ibrahim and Sviatchenko each had chances to score but couldn't find the back of the net. The Dynamo will now prepare for their upcoming road match against the LA Galaxy on May 25, with kickoff set for 9:30 p.m. CT.

Houston Dynamo FC and St. Louis CITY SC battle to scoreless draw

Photo courtesy of Houston Dynamo FC 

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON (May 4, 2024)  In a game filled with action and near misses, Houston Dynamo FC and St. Louis CITY SC couldn't break the deadlock, ending their match in a scoreless draw at Shell Energy Stadium. This result marks Houston's third clean sheet of the season, showcasing their defensive prowess.

The Dynamo came out strong, with forward Aliyu Ibrahim testing St. Louis' goalkeeper early on with a low shot in the eighth minute. However, Roman Buerki was up to the task, denying Ibrahim's attempt. Goalkeeper Steve Clark also played a vital role for Houston, making three crucial saves throughout the match.

Captain Héctor Herrera returned to the starting lineup for Houston after recovering from a knee injury, providing a boost to the team. Despite several close calls, including a back heel attempt from Herrera himself, neither side could find the back of the net.

Defender Daniel Steres came closest to breaking the deadlock for Houston, hitting the woodwork with a powerful header just before halftime. However, luck was not on their side as the ball bounced away from the goal.

The Dynamo's attacking efforts continued in the second half, with midfielder Latif Blessing and defender Erik Sviatchenko both coming close to scoring. However, their shots narrowly missed the target.

Although disappointed with the draw, Houston Dynamo FC now turn their focus to the upcoming U.S. Open Cup, where they will defend their title against USL Championship side Detroit City FC on Tuesday, May 7, back at Shell Energy Stadium.