Bellingham and Kane save England in thrilling Euro 2024 match

By Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

GEISENKIRCHEN, GERMANY (June 30, 2024) In a stunning turnaround, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane came to England’s rescue on Sunday. Their heroics led to a dramatic 2-1 victory against Slovakia in the Round of 16 at Euro 2024. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in two unforgettable moments that propelled England into the quarterfinals.

Slovakia struck first with a goal from Ivan Schranz in the 25th minute. This put England on the back foot as Slovakia defended fiercely for the next 70 minutes. Despite England’s dominance in possession, they struggled to break down Slovakia’s resolute defense and failed to register a single shot on target for most of the match.

Just when it seemed like England’s Euro 2024 journey was about to end in disappointment, Jude Bellingham produced a moment of sheer brilliance. In the 95th minute, with the match in added time, Bellingham executed a stunning bicycle kick to tie the game. His incredible goal was England’s first shot on target and ignited hope among fans and teammates alike.

Barely a minute after the game restarted, England’s captain Harry Kane found the back of the net with a clinical finish. Kane’s goal, officially recorded in the 91st minute, was his second of the tournament. This swift comeback secured England’s spot in the quarterfinals and brought the fans to their feet.

Bellingham’s spectacular strike was a defining moment in what had been a challenging tournament for the 21-year-old midfielder. Positioned in the No. 10 role behind Kane in England’s 4-2-3-1 formation, Bellingham had struggled to make a significant impact in the earlier matches. However, his remarkable goal showcased why he is considered one of the best midfielders in the world and a crucial player for England.

Following these dramatic goals, England manager Gareth Southgate made cautious substitutions, bringing on more defensive players to preserve the lead. Slovakia, determined to equalize, applied pressure in the final minutes of the match, but England’s defense held firm.

Earlier in the game, England thought they had an equalizer when Phil Foden scored in the 50th minute. However, the goal was rightly disallowed for offside after a video review. This added to the tension and frustration for England, making Bellingham’s late equalizer even more significant.

As the final whistle blew, it was clear that England had narrowly escaped another early exit from a major tournament. Entering Euro 2024 as pre-tournament favorites, England had underwhelmed in the group stage, securing only five points and two goals in three games. Bellingham and Kane’s last-minute heroics have now given them a chance to rewrite the narrative as they prepare to face Switzerland in the quarterfinals.

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 Dash, San Diego Wave FC battle to scoreless draw

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

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 22, 2024) The Houston Dash wrapped up a two-game homestand with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against San Diego Wave FC at Shell Energy Stadium tonight. This result means the Dash have not conceded a goal in their last two matches and have managed a shutout in three of their last four games.

Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell was outstanding, making three key saves to secure her sixth clean sheet of the season. Campbell recently signed a four-year extension with the Dash, ensuring she will stay with the team through the 2028 season. Her performance this season has been stellar, leading the league in shutouts.

The match saw some exciting moments, especially from Dash forward Diana Ordoñez, who forced a save from San Diego's goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan in the 10th minute. Barbara Olivieri's cross created the chance, but Sheridan was quick to react.

Houston's defense was rock solid, particularly in the second half when they didn't allow a single shot on target. Defender Natalie Jacobs led the team with four clearances, while Andressa contributed four interceptions. Olivieri was also impressive, winning all four of her tackles and leading the team with nine recoveries.

In the second half, the Dash continued to push for a goal. Avery Patterson's cross set up a chance for Sarah Puntigam, but the Wave defense cleared it. Tarciane's ambitious shot from outside the box also went wide. Ordoñez had a couple of late chances to score, but her efforts were blocked and off target.

The final opportunity came in the eighth minute of stoppage time when a cross found Tarciane, but her header missed the mark.

Next, the Dash will travel to Kansas City for a two-game road trip before taking a break from regular-season play. They will return to Shell Energy Stadium on July 28 to host Tigres UANL in the NWSL x LIGA MX Femenil Summer Cup.

Jane Campbell shines in Houston Dash's fifth clean sheet of season

Photo credit: Houston Dash, Used with permission

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 15, 2024)  In an exciting game at Shell Energy Stadium, Houston Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell led her team to a scoreless draw against Angel City FC, earning their fifth clean sheet of the season. With this performance, Campbell tallied her 35th career clean sheet for the Dash and was named Player of the Match.

Campbell made five crucial saves during the game, including a standout moment in the 53rd minute when she saved a penalty kick from Claire Emslie. This marked Campbell's ninth penalty kick save in all NWSL competitions, tying her for the most in league history with Kailen Sheridan.

Houston's first big chance came early, in the seventh minute, after a foul on Sophie Schmidt. Ramona Bachmann took the free kick, which found Paige Nielsen, but her shot was blocked. A minute later, midfielder Sarah Puntigam narrowly missed the far post with a long shot. Forward Michelle Alozie also had a good chance in the 16th minute, but her shot went wide.

Campbell's first save came in the 28th minute when she denied Alyssa Thompson at the near post. The game stayed tight, with both teams struggling to find the back of the net.

Angel City was awarded a penalty kick in the 53rd minute due to a handball inside the box. Campbell’s impressive save kept the score level and showcased her skill and composure under pressure.

Late in the game, forward Barbara Olivieri had two opportunities to score but couldn't convert. Rookie Amanda West also took a shot in stoppage time, followed by a header from Natalie Jacobs in the 102nd minute, but neither resulted in a goal.

The Houston Dash, now tied for the most clean sheets this season, will look to continue their strong defensive form as they host San Diego Wave FC on Saturday, June 22. 

USWNT faces challenges ahead of 2024 Paria Olympics

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (June 15, 2024) The United States women's national soccer team is going through a big change as they get ready for the 2024 Olympics. With new head coach Emma Hayes, the team is facing some tough challenges. They have fallen to their lowest-ever FIFA ranking, now sitting at No. 5.

The updated FIFA rankings released on Friday show that the U.S. dropped one spot from their previous rank in March. This is the lowest ranking for Team USA since FIFA started ranking women’s teams in 2003. It also marks a drop of three spots since the beginning of the year.

The decline began last year when the U.S. lost to Sweden in the Round of 16 at the World Cup. This was the first time the Americans failed to finish in the top three at the tournament since it started in 1991. That defeat pushed them down to No. 3 in the standings, behind Sweden and 2023 World Cup champion Spain.

Despite this, the team showed some strength by winning the SheBelieves Cup recently, beating Japan in the semifinals and Canada in the final.

The Olympics will be Emma Hayes' first major event as the head coach. Hayes, who had a very successful 12-year run with Chelsea, was named U.S. head coach in November. She has a record of 261 wins, 42 losses, and 64 draws, along with seven Super League titles and five FA Cup titles.

For the upcoming friendlies against Korea Republic, Hayes selected a 23-player roster with only 11 players from the 2023 World Cup team. She made some surprising choices, like picking defender Sam Staab over the more experienced Abby Dahlkemper.

Hayes told reporters:

"If we can perform at our best level, then we have a chance of doing things. But we've got work to do. The realities are that the world game is where it is, and the rest of the world do not fear the USA in the way that they once did and that's valid. It's our job to grasp quite quickly what we need to do to get close again to those levels."

Team USA will start their Olympic journey in Group B with Zambia, Germany, and Australia. Their first game is on July 25 against Zambia. 

IOC announces plans for the first-ever Olympic Esports Games

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND (June 14, 2024) The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is set to launch the Olympic Esports Games, a new event featuring digital sports under the Olympic brand. This decision came after a report from the IOC’s Esports Commission during a three-day Executive Board meeting held in Lausanne, Switzerland. The proposal will be brought to the IOC Session for approval when it meets in Paris on July 22.

IOC President Thomas Bach stated that David Lappartient, the Commission Chair who has been involved in this initiative since 2018, will continue to be a part of this new branch of the Olympic Movement. The IOC previously tested the waters with the Olympic Virtual Series in 2021 and the Olympic Esports Series in Singapore in June 2023.

“This will bring our engagement in esports to a completely new level,” Bach said.

Currently, there are two major international federations that organize Esports world championships: the International Esports Federation (IeSF) based in South Korea, and the Global Esports Federation (GEF) in Singapore. However, these are not recognized by the IOC. Both federations host popular competitive titles, including battle games and simulated sports.

Bach has emphasized that the Olympic Esports Games will focus on family-friendly, non-violent titles, unlike some of the more popular violent games in the esports world. The IOC's Esports events have included games like Zwift for cycling and online Chess, aiming to promote Olympic values.

Some gamers have criticized the IOC’s choice of titles for not including their favorites. For instance, Epic Games' popular Fortnite was modified to a target shooting game for the Olympic Esports Series. Despite this, Bach believes the Olympic Esports Games will become a prestigious event in the esports world, much like the traditional Olympic Games.

The IOC will manage and finance the Olympic Esports Games separately from the traditional Olympics to ensure the financial stability of its member sports federations. The first host city for the event is yet to be announced, with Japan being a strong candidate. However, final decisions will be made after the IOC members vote in July.

This new initiative marks a significant step in integrating esports into the Olympic Movement, promising an exciting future for digital sports enthusiasts worldwide.

UIL Baseball State 6A All-Tournament Team Announced

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

ROUND ROCK, TEXAS (June 9, 2024) The Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association has announced the UIL Baseball State All-Tournament Team for Conference 6A. This team features the best players from the state tournament, with selections highlighting their outstanding performances.

MVP Honors: Karson Reeder, a sophomore from Tomball, was named the Most Valuable Player. His remarkable skills and performance throughout the tournament earned him this top honor.

Pitching Excellence: Nico Partida, a junior from Pearland, shone on the mound, earning him the pitcher spot on the all-tournament team. His powerful throws and consistent strikes were crucial for his team's success.

Behind the Plate: Cade Arrambide, a senior from Tomball, was selected as the catcher. His leadership and skill in managing the game from behind the plate were exceptional.

Infield Stars

• First Base: CJ Sampson, a sophomore from Tomball, was a strong presence at first base, contributing significantly both offensively and defensively.
• Second Base: Blaine Lucas, a senior from Tomball, showcased his experience and talent, securing the second base position.
• Third Base: Freshman Ryan Maples from San Antonio Johnson displayed impressive talent at third base, marking him as a rising star in the sport.
• Shortstop: Adrian Rodriguez, a senior from Lewisville Flower Mound, excelled at shortstop, demonstrating his agility and precision.

Outfield Talents: The outfield positions were filled with top performers:

• John Moya, a senior from Pearland, showed exceptional skill and speed.
• Walker Hurst, a junior from Pearland, displayed excellent fielding abilities.
• Catcher Hopkins, a sophomore from Tomball, impressed with his versatility and strength.

Utility Player: Josh Olivo, a senior from Tomball, was selected as the utility player. His ability to play multiple positions effectively made him a valuable asset to his team.

These talented athletes have been recognized for their hard work and dedication, making them standouts in the 2024 UIL Baseball State Tournament for Conference 6A. 

Brazil top Mexico 3-2 at Texas A&M's Kyle Field

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

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS (June 8, 2024) In front of 85,249 fans at Kyle Field, on the campus of Texas A&M University, Brazil edged out Mexico on the College Stayion stop of MexTour 2024, with a last-minute goal, winning 3-2 in a thrilling match that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

The action kicked off early with Brazil’s Andreas Pereira finding the net just five minutes into the game, thanks to a great assist from Savio De Oliveira. The first half continued with intense play but no further goals, leaving Brazil with a 1-0 lead at halftime.

The second half saw Brazil doubling their lead when Gabriel Silva scored in the 54th minute, assisted by Yan Couto. This put Mexico under immense pressure, and they responded fiercely. Mexico's Julian Quiñones, coming off the bench, scored in the 73rd minute after a beautiful setup by Alexis Vega, giving Mexico hope.

The atmosphere grew even more electric as the match approached its end. In stoppage time, Mexico’s Guillermo Martinez scored an equalizer in the 92nd minute, sending the crowd into a frenzy. It seemed like the match was headed for a draw.

However, Brazil had other plans. In the 6th minute of added time in the second half, Endrick Sousa, assisted by Vinicius Junior, scored the winning goal, sealing a dramatic victory for Brazil.

Tomball Cougars down Pearland Oilers to win 6A state championship

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

ROUND ROCK, TEXAS (June 8, 2024) Houston area high school baseball was destined to shine this season, and the Tomball Cougars made sure they were the ones bringing home the UIL Class 6A state championship. On Saturday at Dell Diamond, the Cougars clinched their second state title in program history with a 4-1 win over Pearland.

Tomball (41-3), ranked No. 3 in the nation by MaxPreps, ended their season with an impressive 30-game winning streak. They also secured two shutout victories in the state tournament. Pearland (36-9), on the other hand, fell short of state gold for the second year in a row after losing 6-4 in the final last season.

The game remained scoreless until the fourth inning when Tomball brought 10 batters to the plate and took control. Sophomore right-hander Karson Reeder delivered a stellar performance, pitching a complete game with just three hits allowed. He struck out 14 straight batters at one point, allowing Pearland only one hit in the sixth inning.

Pearland's senior pitcher Jaden Barfield, who started in the state championship game for the second consecutive year, had a strong start with four strikeouts in the first three innings. However, things took a turn in the fourth inning. With two runners on base, Reeder hit an RBI single, followed by a two-run single by Josh Olivo, and a bases-loaded walk by C.J. Sampson, putting Tomball up 4-0.

Barfield, an Oklahoma recruit, had previously thrown three shutouts during the postseason but struggled in this game. Despite his efforts, he couldn't stop Tomball's two-out rally in the fourth inning.

Reeder, who came into the game with a 12-1 record and a 0.89 ERA, continued to dominate after allowing a leadoff single. He ended the inning with a double play and kept Pearland in check until Cade Adams hit an RBI single with two outs in the seventh inning.

Tomball's playoff run was remarkable, going undefeated with a 12-0 record and allowing only 15 runs. This win marks Houston's first 6A state title since Deer Park won in 2017 and only the third 6A state title for  the Houston area since 2014.

Harlingen South punches ticket to UIL 5A state softball championship game

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

GEORGETOW, TEXAS (May 31, 2024)  For the first time in school history, the Harlingen South Lady Hawks have advanced to the 5A UIL State Championship title game in softball. 

The Lady Hawks competed against the Aledo Ladycats at East View High School in Georgetown. The game was thrilling and intense, with the Lady Hawks winning by a narrow margin of 1-0. This victory was particularly impressive given the tough competition they faced.

The playoffs were originally supposed to be held at Red & Charline McCombs Field in Austin. However, due to bad weather, the location was changed to East View High School. Despite this change, the Lady Hawks stayed focused and played their best game.

Now, the Lady Hawks are gearing up for their next big challenge. They will compete against the Melissa Cardinals in the championship round. The Melissa Cardinals earned their spot in the championship by defeating Lake Belton with a score of 4-0 on Friday morning.

The state championship game is set to take place at Red & Charline McCombs Field in Austin. The first pitch will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 1. 

Melissa softball downs Lake Belton in UIL state semifinal

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

By Robert H. Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 31, 2024) The Melissa Cardinals (shown above) added another impressive win to their record on Friday as they defeated Lake Belton 4-0 in the Class 5A state semifinal, played at the University of Texas' Red & Charline McCombs Field.

Caigan CrabtreeCaigan Crabtree, a standout player whom has committed to Texas, had a fantastic game. She went 3-for-3 at the plate, hitting RBI doubles in the first and third innings. She also made a spectacular leaping catch at shortstop in the fourth inning. Thanks to Crabtree’s stellar performance, Melissa secured their spot in the state title game, which will take place on Saturday at 1 p.m. against Harlingen SouthHarlingen South.

Melissa is hoping to become the first Dallas-area team to win a UIL softball state title since Forney did in 2018. Freshman second baseman Amariee Bradford hit her seventh home run of the season in the bottom of the sixth inning, giving Melissa a state-record total of 90 home runs for the season. This total ranks them second in national history, with only Stonewall North Desoto from Louisiana having hit more, with 105 homers in 2022.

Melissa’s team features three of the most prolific sluggers in state history. Freshman Hutton Adrian has hit 22 home runs, breaking the Dallas-area single-season record. Sophomore Kennedy Bradley has 20 homers, and junior Caigan Crabtree has 19. Together, these three players have combined for 186 hits, 116 extra-base hits, and 180 RBIs in 39 games this season.

The game started an hour late due to bad weather, but Melissa wasn’t fazed. Bradley singled in the first inning, and Crabtree followed with an RBI double to put Melissa on the board. In the third inning, Bradley singled again, and Crabtree hit another RBI double. Bradford added a sacrifice fly, scoring Crabtree and giving Melissa a 3-0 lead.

Bradley, who transferred to Melissa from Prosper Rock Hill, had shoulder surgery last year and couldn’t swing a bat for six months. But she showed her strength by going 2-for-3 in the game. Melissa’s pitcher, Alex Starr, a Michigan State pledge, pitched a three-hit shutout, stranding six runners and improving her record to 28-1.

Lake Belton, who had averaged 6.8 runs per game in the playoffs, couldn’t score against Starr. Despite winning 35 of their last 36 games, Lake Belton couldn’t overcome Melissa’s strong defense and pitching.

Houston Dash celebrate first home win with 3-0 win over North Carolina Courage

By Robert H Kelly
Copyrights 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON (May 24, 2024)  The Houston Dash wrapped up their two-game homestand with a bang, securing a 3-0 victory against the North Carolina Courage at Shell Energy Stadium. This marks Houston’s third win of the season and their first triumph on home turf.

The Dash took the lead just before halftime. Rookie Avery Patterson won the ball at the edge of the box and passed to forward Ramona Bachmann. Bachmann then found the bottom corner of the far post, scoring her first goal in the NWSL.

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In the 67th minute, Houston scored again. Michelle Alozie dribbled into the box and passed back to Barbara Olivieri. The Katy, Texas native then found the far post for her first NWSL goal.

The final goal came in the 78th minute. Alozie forced a save from the North Carolina goalkeeper, and Diana Ordóñez was in the right place to score from the loose ball. This was Ordóñez's fourth goal of the season.

Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell earned her fourth clean sheet of the season, making three saves against the Courage. Campbell is one of six Dash players who will leave for national team duty soon. She will join the U.S. Women’s National Team for friendlies against South Korea.

Houston made an early push with Bachmann finding Olivieri at the edge of the box in the fifth minute, but Olivieri’s shot went wide. Defender Paige Nielsen, who has been key in Houston’s defense since joining in late April, also attempted a long-range shot that missed.

Alozie had two shots in the first half, forcing a save in the 23rd minute and heading off target in the 36th minute. The Dash defense, including Natalie Jacobs and Tarciane, blocked key shots from North Carolina in the 60th minute. Tarciane’s debut made her the eighth Brazilian to play for the Dash.

The Dash’s next game is on Friday, June 7, against Racing Louisville FC at Lynn Family Stadium. They will return home on June 15 to host Angel City on Pride Night, presented by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

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.

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.