Ryan goal, Smith saves push Houston Dash closer to playoffs

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 19, 2025)  The Houston Dash took another step toward the playoffs Friday night with a 1-0 win over Chicago Stars FC at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston.

Forward Yazmeen Ryan delivered the game’s only goal in the 28th minute. After forcing a Chicago turnover, Ryan sprinted into the box and calmly finished with her right foot into the bottom corner. The goal was her team-leading fourth of the season and her third since early August. She stated after the match:

“It’s always great to get three points, I’m super proud of the team for their defensive work and keeping a clean sheet. Everyone keeps us in games because we know that Chicago (Stars FC) has come back and had opportunities. I’m happy we got to shut them down.” 

Goalkeeper Abby Smith played a huge role in the win, making six saves to record Houston’s fourth shutout of the season. Smith denied several dangerous chances from Chicago, including a close-range shot early in the second half and a diving stop in the 76th minute. The night also highlighted Smith’s off-field impact, as the club recognized her as its nominee for the Lauren Holiday Impact Award for her work with Kids’ Meals Houston.

The match also marked the debut of defender Malia Berkely, who joined the Dash this week in a trade with North Carolina. Defender Anna Heilferty entered in the 80th minute for her first appearance since signing a short-term deal earlier this summer.

Houston created several chances to extend the lead, including a penalty kick in the 86th minute. Ryan stepped up to the spot, but U.S. national team keeper Alyssa Naeher guessed correctly and made the save.

With the victory, Houston improved to 7-9-5 (26 points) and now sits just two points below the playoff line with five games left in the regular season.

The Dash will travel to Washington, D.C. to face the Spirit on September 28 before returning home October 3 to host the Orlando Pride on Space City Night.