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 Dash dominate Rayadas 4-0 in friendly match

Photo credit: Houston Dash, Used with permission

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 8, 2025) The Houston Dash had a big night at Shell Energy Stadium, beating Rayadas de Monterrey 4-0 in an international friendly on Tuesday evening. Four different Dash players scored in the shutout win.

Delanie Sheehan got things started in the 24th minute with a goal off a pass from Sarah Puntigam. Sheehan made space and sent the ball into the back post to put Houston up 1-0.

Defender Avery Patterson made it 2-0 early in the second half, finishing off a low cross from Yazmeen Ryan with a strong left-footed shot. Patterson recently scored her first goal for the U.S. Women’s National Team and continued her great form for the Dash.

In the 73rd minute, Maggie Graham added a third goal, scoring off a rebound after a save by Monterrey’s goalkeeper. The final goal came in the 87th minute from Kiki Van Zanten, who finished a pass from Patterson.

Goalkeepers Jane Campbell and Abby Smith each played a half to help secure the shutout. Defender Allysha Chapman, midfielder Rebeca, and defender Zoe Matthews all made their 2025 season debuts.

The Dash controlled the game with strong chances from Sheehan, Messiah Bright, Ryan Gareis, and Ryan. Monterrey’s best chance was called offside in the second half.

Houston returns to league play on August 2 against Bay FC and will host the North Carolina Courage on August 8.

Mexico defeats U.S. to win 2025 Gold Cup Final

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

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 6, 2025)  Mexico came from behind to defeat the United States 2-1 in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup Final on Sunday evening at NRG Stadium. With the win, Mexico claimed its 10th Gold Cup title, the most in tournament history.

The match started fast, with the U.S. striking early. In just the fourth minute, defender Chris Richards scored with a powerful header off a free kick from Sebastian Berhalter, giving the Americans a 1-0 lead.

Mexico answered back in the 27th minute. Star striker Raúl Jiménez found the back of the net, scoring his third goal of the tournament to tie the game 1-1.

The second half remained tight until the 77th minute. Midfielder Edson Álvarez scored what turned out to be the game-winning goal. His goal was first called offside, but after a video review, the referee confirmed it was good. That gave Mexico the 2-1 lead, and they held on until the final whistle.

This was the eighth time the U.S. and Mexico have met in a Gold Cup final. Mexico now leads the rivalry in finals with six wins to the U.S.’s two.

USMNT beats Haiti 2–1 to Finish Group D

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

ARLINGTON, TEXAS (June 22, 2025) On Sunday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, the U.S. Men’s National Team beat Haiti 2–1 in their final Group D match of the Concacaf Gold Cup.

.The U.S. answered quickly. In the 13th minute, Malik Tillman made a strong, low shot into the net to tie the game. That gave the home fans a big cheer and brought the score to 1–1.

The U.S. took the lead in the 75th minute. Defender Patrick Agyemang headed in a pass from a corner kick. That goal pushed the U.S. ahead 2–1.

They held on to win, ending group play with a perfect 3–0 record. The U.S. scored eight goals and gave up just one, earning nine points to top Group D.

Haiti finishes with just one point (a 1–1 draw) and misses the knockout round 

Canada, Honduras earn key points in Gold Cup group play

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 (June 21, 2025) Canada and Honduras kept their Concacaf Gold Cup dreams alive with exciting results on the field on Saturday. Both teams are chasing a spot in the knockout round as group play nears its end.

Canada got off to a fast start in their match against Curaçao. Midfielder Nathan Saliba, making just his fifth appearance for the national team, scored early in the 9th minute. His right-footed shot from the center of the box found the bottom corner of the goal, giving Canada a 1-0 lead.

Canada looked like they would grab all three points, but Curaçao had other plans. In the 94th minute, Jeremy Antonisse tied the game. He scored on a right-footed shot from the center of the box. Joshua Zimmerman provided the assist with a sharp pass. The match ended 1-1.

Later that evening, Honduras brought energy and intensity in a 2-0 win over El Salvador. The crowd roared when forward Romell Quioto scored in the 33rd minute. The former Houston Dynamo star split two defenders and fired a right-footed shot into the bottom right corner. Edwin Rodríguez set him up with a smooth assist.

Honduras sealed the win in stoppage time. Midfielder took off on a fast break. El Salvador’s goalkeeper, Mario Gonzalez, had moved up the field, leaving the goal wide open. Ramirez took advantage and scored from long range into an empty net.

“We took advantage of Dixon’s potential,” said Honduras head coach Reinaldo Rueda. “Thank God he was able to finish. That second goal gave us a huge relief.”

With one game left in group play, Canada leads Group B with four points. Honduras is close behind with three. Curaçao has two points, while El Salvador is last with one.

Canada will face El Salvador next at Shell Energy Stadium on June 24. Honduras will take on Curaçao the same day at PayPal Park in California.

Haiti and Trinidad and Tobago battle to 1-1 Gold Cup draw in Houston

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

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 19, 2025) Haiti and Trinidad and Tobago ended in a 1-1 draw on Thursday night at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston during the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup.

The match was full of drama, starting in the 39th minute when Haiti’s Jean-Kévin Duverne was shown a red card. That meant Haiti had to play the rest of the game with only 10 players.

Still, Haiti struck first. In the 49th minute, Frantzdy Pierrot scored with a strong right-footed shot to put his team ahead. Louicius Don Deedson helped set up the goal with a nice pass from just outside the penalty area.

Trinidad and Tobago answered back in the 68th minute. Justin Garcia tied the game with a header in the box, finishing off a free kick from Kevin Molino.

The Soca Warriors had a big chance to win the game in the 86th minute. They were awarded a penalty kick, but Mondy Prunier sent the shot over the goal, and the match stayed tied.

Both teams picked up their first point of the tournament with the draw.

Houston Dynamo FC Falls 3-1 to CF Montréal at Home

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 (June 14, 2025)  The Houston Dynamo FC lost 3-1 to CF Montréal at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday night, despite a strong effort from the team. The game showcased some big moments, including a goal from midfielder Ondřej Lingr and a milestone for midfielder Nico Lodeiro.

Montréal struck first in the 30th minute when Prince Owusu scored with a right-footed shot. Just two minutes later, Owusu added another goal with a header, putting the Dynamo in a tough spot. In the 54th minute, Jalen Neal made it 3-0 for Montréal with a header from a set piece.

Houston fought back in the 64th minute when Lodeiro sent a perfect pass to Lingr, who headed the ball into the net for his third goal of the season. This assist was Lodeiro’s 92nd in MLS history, ranking him 10th all-time in the league. Defender Franco Escobar also celebrated his 150th MLS regular-season game after coming on at halftime.

The Dynamo had other chances to score. Early in the match, forward Ezequiel Ponce nearly scored with a powerful header that went just over the bar. Later, midfielder Sebastian Kowalczyk forced a save from Montréal’s goalkeeper with a sharp shot. In the 67th minute, Lingr and Escobar almost teamed up for another goal, but Escobar’s header hit the post and was cleared away.

Goalkeeper Jonathan Bond made two big saves, including a quick reaction stop in the 76th minute. Despite the loss, the Dynamo showed fight. They’ll look to bounce back when they face Minnesota United FC on June 25 at Allianz Field

Houston Dash rally falls short against San Diego Wave FC

Credit: Houston Dash

Story by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 13, 2025) The Houston Dash fought hard but lost 3-2 to San Diego Wave FC on at Shell Energy Stadium. The match was part of the team’s annual Pride Night and marked their final home game before the league break.

San Diego struck first, scoring in the 17th minute after a loose ball was finished by Kenza Dali. The Wave added a second goal in the 36th minute when Hanna Lundkvist’s cross found Adriana Leon. In the 51st minute, Delphine Cascarino sent in a cross that María Sánchez finished, giving San Diego a 3-0 lead.

Houston didn’t give up. In the 61st minute, Katy native Bárbara Olivieri took a free kick, made space, and scored a beautiful goal from outside the box—her second of the season.

Seven minutes later, Yazmeen Ryan scored her first goal of the year. After winning a battle for the ball at midfield, she dribbled into the box and fired a shot into the top corner of the net.

Goalkeeper Abby Smith kept the Dash in the game with seven saves, including two early stops in the first half.

The Dash hit the road next week to face the North Carolina Courage on Saturday, June 21. They return home on July 8 to host Rayadas de Monterrey in a friendly match.

CC Calallen takes UIL state baseball title over Pleasant Grove

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

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

ROUND ROCK, TEXAS (June 6, 2925) The Calallen Wildcats have ended a 17-year wait by winning the UIL 4A Division I State Baseball Championship. On Friday, they defeated Texarkana Pleasant Grove 5–3 at Dell Diamond in Round Rock. This victory marks Calallen's fourth state title in school history.

Junior pitcher Drayton Mitchell (shown above holding plaque) played a key role, earning MVP honors. He pitched over five innings, striking out six batters and allowing only three runs. Mitchell also contributed offensively with two hits. "I couldn't have done it without my team," Mitchell said. "We worked every day, and this was our goal."

Senior Cody Andrade came in as a relief pitcher and closed the game with 1.2 innings, striking out five batters and giving up just one hit. "I felt the groove going," Andrade said. "My defense has my back like always."

The Wildcats trailed early but took the lead in the fifth inning when senior Chase Lynch hit a go-ahead RBI single. "I live for the big spots," Lynch said. "Everyone supports me to go and get the big knock.

Head coach Steve Chapman praised his team's effort, saying, "They play really hard, they're talented, and they have a never-say-die attitude."

Lake Travis forces game 3 with strong pitching against SA Johnson

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS (May 30, 2025) Lake Travis kept its season alive with a big 3-1 win over San Antonio Johnson in Game 2 of their UIL Class 6A regional quarterfinal playoff series. The win ties the best-of-three series at 1-1 and forces a Game 3 to decide who moves on.

The star of the game was Lake Travis pitcher Luke Falcon. He was nearly perfect on the mound, throwing a complete game and giving up just one run. Falcon kept the Johnson hitters off balance all night with smart pitches and great control.

Lake Travis got a strong start at the plate, scoring early runs to take the lead. Solid defense and smart base running also helped the Cavaliers stay ahead.

San Antonio Johnson had won Game 1 of the series, 6-4, and hoped to close it out in Game 2. But Lake Travis had other plans, showing toughness and focus in front of their home fans.

Game 3 will now decide which team moves on in the Texas high school baseball playoffs. Both teams have shown they can win, so the final game should be exciting.

For Lake Travis, Falcon’s performance was a key moment in their playoff run. If they bring the same energy to Game 3, they’ll have a great chance to keep their season going.

Lake Creek downs Hallsville 12-1 for state softball title

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

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 30, 2025) The Montgomery Lake Creek Lions softball team achieved a remarkable victory, defeating the Hallsville Bobcats 12-1 to win the 2025 UIL Class 5A Division II state championship. This win marks their third state title in four years and concludes a perfect 37-0 season.

The game, held at Red and Charline McCombs Field in Austin, saw the Lions take an early lead with two runs in the first inning. Hallsville managed to score once in the third, but Lake Creek's offense exploded in the fifth inning, adding six runs to their tally. They continued to dominate, scoring additional runs in the sixth and seventh innings. In total, the Lions amassed 14 hits and committed no errors, while Hallsville was limited to just two hits and four errors.

Junior pitcher Sara Wiggins (shown above, holding plaque) delivered an outstanding performance, pitching a complete game with 11 strikeouts and allowing only one run on two hits. Her efforts earned her the Finals MVP title. Wiggins also contributed offensively with a hit and two RBI.

Offensively, the Lions were led by Miranda Orso, Madalyn Davis, and Gracee Brewer, each recording three hits. Orso had two doubles, two RBIs, and scored twice. Davis added a triple, and Brewer contributed with a single and an RBI.

Under the guidance of head coach Candyce Carter, Lake Creek has established itself as a powerhouse in Texas high school softball. Since the program's inception in 2019, the Lions have achieved an impressive overall record of 228-22, including two undefeated seasons. Their combined record during their championship seasons in 2022, 2023, and 2025 stands at a remarkable 122-1.

Calallen Lady Wildcats make history with 3rd straight state title

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

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 30, 2025) The Calallen Lady Wildcats softball team has achieved something truly special. On Friday, they won their third straight UIL Class 4A Division I state championship by defeating the Andrews Mustangs 9-2 at Red and Charline McCombs Field in Austin. This victory makes Calallen one of only two Texas high school softball teams to win three state titles in a row, joining Coahoma High School.

The game started strong for Calallen. In the second inning, junior Braelyn Bailey hit a two-run single, giving her team a 4-0 lead. Later, in the sixth inning, Bailey hit a grand slam, a home run with the bases loaded, pushing the score to 9-0. She finished the game with six RBI and was named the Most Valuable Player of the championship.

Pitcher Jordyn Thibodeaux also played a key role. She struck out nine batters and allowed only one hit over five innings. Her strong performance kept Andrews from scoring early in the game. Senior Bianca Gonzalez came in to pitch the final two innings.

Four Houston-area teams set for UIL state baseball semifinals

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 28, 2025)Four Houston-area high school baseball teams are one step away from the state championship. Atascocita, Tomball, Kingwood, and are all headed to the UIL Class 6A state semifinals this week.

In Class 6A Division I, Atascocita (30-11-2) will take on Lake Travis (25-10-3) at Blue Bell Park in College Station. Game 1 is Thursday at 6 p.m., Game 2 is Friday at 6 p.m., and Game 3 (if needed) is Saturday at 6 p.m. The winner will move on to face either Prosper or Waco Midway in the state title game on Saturday, June 7, at 4 p.m. in Round Rock.

In Class 6A Division II, Tomball (32-6-1) is matched up with Flower Mound Marcus (30-11). Their series will be played at Georgetown High School, with games Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m. and a possible Game 3 on Saturday at noon.

Kingwood (36-3), one of the top teams in the state, will play Dripping Springs (28-10) in Victoria. Game 1 is Thursday at 7 p.m., Game 2 is Friday at 7 p.m., and Game 3, if needed, is Saturday at 7 p.m.

The winners of the Tomball and Kingwood series will meet in the Division II title game at noon on Saturday, June 7, in Round Rock.

Big games are ahead for these Houston squads as they chase a state title.

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.

Colleyville Heritage downs El Paso Americas in close UIL baseball playoff game

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

MIDLAND, TEXAS (May 17, 2025) In a hard-fought playoff game, Colleyville Heritage held off El Paso Americas High School with a 6-5 win in the UIL Class 5A Division I area round of the Texas high school baseball playoffs. 

Americas jumped out to an early 4-1 lead after the second inning. Senior catcher Daniel Quiñones helped the Trail Blazers get started with a strong hit in the first. Junior pitcher Jayden Perales also added a big hit in the second inning.

But Colleyville Heritage fought back. They scored five runs over the next four innings to take a 6-4 lead. Americas added one more run in the sixth inning to make it 6-5, but couldn’t catch up.

Even though they lost, Americas had a great season. They finished with a 30-8 record and won the District 1-6A championship. 

Houston Dash fall to Portland Thorns FC 4-1

Photo courtesy of Houston Dash 

By Robert H Kelly 

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 16, 2025)  The Houston Dash dropped a 4-1 decision to Portland Thorns FC on Friday night at Shell Energy Stadium. This was the first game of a two-game homestand for the Dash.

Portland scored their first goal in the 26th minute and added another just four minutes later. They scored two more goals; one in the 54th minute and one from a penalty kick late in the game.

Houston’s only goal came in the 75th minute. Forward Michelle Alozie forced an own goal after a pass from Barbara Olivieri. Alozie dribbled into the box and her shot deflected off a Portland defender and into the net.

Goalkeeper Abby Smith had a busy night and finished with three saves. She stopped two strong shots early in the match and kept the Dash in the game during the first half.

The Dash had some chances to score. Messiah Bright and Maggie Graham nearly connected on a play in the 21st minute. Delanie Sheehan also had a close shot just before halftime. Newcomer Kiki Van Zanten made her regular season debut in the second half and almost scored in the 82nd minute.

The Dash will finish their homestand next Saturday, May 24, when they take on Bay FC for Kids Day at Shell Energy Stadium.

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.

Houston Dash fall short after long night of delays

Photo by Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 3, 2025) The Houston Dash came up short on a stormy Friday evening, losing 2-1 to Racing Louisville FC at Shell Energy Stadium on Friday. The game had two long weather delays, including one that lasted nearly two hours.

The Dash started strong and took the lead in the 9th minute. Forward Ryan Gareis passed the ball to defender Avery Patterson, who dribbled into space and scored with a great long shot to the far post. It was her first goal of the season and second goal ever for the Dash.

Louisville answered quickly. In the 20th minute, Kayla Fischer scored from the top of the box to tie the game. They took the lead for good in the 71st minute when Emma Sears got behind the defense and scored.

The Dash had a few chances early. In the 7th minute, Delanie Sheehan sent a cross to Patterson, but her header was saved. Goalkeeper Jane Campbell made a big save in the 29th minute and added two more before halftime to keep the Dash in the game.

In the second half, Yazmeen Ryan won a free kick that gave Houston a scoring chance. Barbara Olivieri got a shot off, but it was stopped. Patterson stayed active, taking four shots on goal and making six defensive recoveries.

Late in the game, the Dash pushed hard for a tying goal. Michelle Alozie forced a save in the 89th minute, and Evelina Duljan had a shot blocked in the final moments. But Louisville’s defense held strong and took all three points.

The Dash split their two-game homestand and now get ready to face Seattle Reign FC on Sunday, May 11 at Lumen Field. They return home to play the Portland Thorns on Friday, May 16.