Houston SaberCats down Austin Elite 36-15

Photo by J.B. Fletcher
Copyright 2019, All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 25, 2019) With two tries by forward Jamason Fa’anana-Schultz and two conversions by flyhalf Sam Windsor, the Houston SaberCats downed their in-state rivals, Austin Elite Rugby, by the score of 36-15 at AVEVA Stadium in Houston. The win was Houston's second over Austin, with their first win coming on January 26, at Dell Diamond in Round Rock, Texas, by the score of 21-20. The win pushed the SaberCats seaason record to 4-10-0 with two games remaining.

Houston added tries by wing/center Malacchi Esdale (57'), center Thretton Palamo (15' and 80') and flanker Cecil Garber (34'). Windsor, who leads Major League Soccer in penalty goals, was joined by Palamo in scoring one conversion.

The SaberCays have to games remaining this season, beginnig with a Wednesday, May 29 match against the Glendale Raptures (7-6-2) in Houston. They close out the season travelling to Utah to take on the Warriors on Saturday, June 1.

Kyah Simon leaves pre-FIFA World Cup training camp

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

By Chris Price
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 26, 2019) It is being reported by Football Federation Australia (FFA) that Houston Dash 
forward Kyah Simon (shown right, No. 17, back row, second from left) has left the Westfield Matilda's pre-FIFA Women's World Cup training camp in Turkey following a setback of her hamstring injury. The 27-year-old played 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, where she scored both of Australia's goals in a 2–1 win over Norway. In that game, she became the first Indigenous Australian player to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup. With the Dash this season, she saw action in two games; playing 49 minutes with two tackles.

USA falls to Ukraine 2-1 in FIFA U-20 World Cup

By Chris Price
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

BIELSKA BIALA, POLAND (May 24, 2019) The United States U-20 National Team dropped a close match to Ukraine by the score of 2-1 in the opening match for both teams in the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Playing in Group D at Bielska-Biala Stadium in Bielska Biala, Poland, the USA evened the score in the 32nd minute on a goal by  Brandon Servania (FC Dallas). Ukraine scored first, in the 26th minute, off the foot of Serhii Buletsa.

Denys Popov headed in the go-ahead goal, in the 51st minute to secure the American's defeat. The United States will next face Nigeria, who downed Qatar 4-0 in their first round match) on Monday, May 27, at  Bielska-Biala Stadium.

Results of Pasadena Strawberry Festival Mud Volleyball Tournament announced

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (May 20, 2019) Eighty-six teams converged on the grounds of the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, May 18, to take part in the 32nd Annual Pasadena Starwberry Festival Mud Volleyball Tournament. The competition saw the teams competing in bracket play with the top teams from each bracket advancing to the finals and the eventual tournament champion. 

The teams played in a double elimination bracket on their court, with the top team in each bracket seeded in a single elimination playoff bracket based on their respective point differentials. The "Quagmires" bested all others teams, emerging as the overall tournament champions, witj the "Dirty Dogs" finishing in second place. "Wild Mud Dogs" placed third, with "Back At It" coming in fourth.

The Lee College women's volleyball team served as the officials for the tournament. Katie Gazaw, chairperson of the tournament, was quoted:

"All of our teams, new and old, had a great time and were competitors. The officials, provided by Lee College women's volleyball program, dis and outstanding job, and we are so grateful for their help. I look forward to seeing everyone again next year."

The entry fee for the tournament was $150, with entries for the 2020 tournament being accepted beginning Janaury, 2020.

Two early goals by Chicago Red Stars gives Houston Dash 2-1 loss

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 19, 2019) Foward Sam Kerr scored two goals, in the eighth and thirteenth minute, to give the Chicago Red Stars a 2-1 win over the Houston Dash at BBVA Compass Stadium. The game, which was very physical, which saw both squads playing without some of their top players due to international asignments for the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup.

In the eighth minute, Kerr got behind Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell and rounded the ball into the net. She came back five minutes later to again get the ball past Campbell for her second brace in as many games. In the 26th minute forward Sophia Huerta runs onto the ball brought down by forward Kayla McCoy and left-footed it in the far corner for her seccond goal of the season.

With the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in the horizon, the Dash is looking to maximize in the games left with the club’s world cup players. CanWNT players Lindsay Agnew, Allysha Chapman, Nichelle Prince and Sophie Schmidt left last week to join Canada as they compete in Group E against Cameroon, the Netherlands and New Zealand. After this evening’s game against the Stars, the Dash are projected to miss the rest of the players adding up to eight this summer during the FIFA Women's World Cup. 2018 Team MVP Rachel Daly and England will compete in Group D against Argentina, Japan and Scotland. Kyah Simon will join Clare Polkinghorne and Australia as they face Brazil, Italy and Kayla McCoy and Jamaica in Group C play.

Houston Dynamo come from behind to down D.C. United, 2-1

Story and photo Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 18, 2019) On a humid evening in Houston, where fans hoped the rain moving in from the northwest would be delayed, witnessed the Houston Dynamo score two goals in two minutes to down D.C. United by the score of 2-1 at BBVA Compass Stadium. The United loss was their fourth of the season, with Houston taking a 16-6-5 lifetime record versus D.C. The win was Houston's fifteenth over United in history and the tenth in Houston. Houston improves their season record to 7-2-2 (23 points) and pushes them into third in the Western Conference standings; behind Los Angeles FC (9-1-3, 30 points) and Seattle (7-1-5, 26 points).

The two squads battled to a scoreless draw after 45 minutes, which held into the five minutes of added time. In the 10th minute, fan favorite Alberth Elis left the game after he collided with United player. He was bleeding, and was immediately placed under concussion protocol. The Honduran forward, who was hoping for a score in the game to move to fifth on the club's regular-season goal list, was replaced by Memo Rodriguez.

However, the scoreless game did not last in the second half. In the 46th minute, midfielder Ulises Segura got the ball at the far post; pushing it to a waiting Wayne Rooney at the near post; who tapped the ball into the unprotected left side of the goal for his seventh goal of the season.

The Dynamo were not to be denied, as they scored two goals in the span of two minutes to take a 2-1 lead in the 68th minute. The scoring frenzy began in the 67th minute when Memo Rodriguez came down the right side of the pitch; cutting across the top side of the box, and punching the ball to the left post for his fifth goal of 2019. One minute later, Tommy McNamara kneed the ball pass goalkeeper Bill Hemis for his first gaol in a Dynamo uniform. He entered the game two minutes prior to the score, as a replacement for Romell Quioto.

“It was good three points at home. We really fought today, and it was good team effort defensively. We’re closing out huge now. Sometimes we suffer but we still get the three points and that’s important," stated Rodriguez. He added  "It (the team’s performance)was difficult because this was our third game in eight days. We knew that some of us were tired but it’s part of fútbol. You have to be ready at all times. We knew DC United was in first place in their conference. Their a tough team and they play well but we knew that we had to come out with the intensity and bring the game to them.”

The match wrapped up a eight-day, three game series; and was the eighth home game for Houston. In their next ten games, the Dynamo will play seven of them on the road.

Houston Dynamo, Portland Timbers battle to 1-1 draw

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 15, 2019) The Houston Dynamo scored late in the first half and and kept the lead for the next 37 minutes, when the Portland Timbers tied the score. The score stayed the same for the remainder of the game. The 1-1 draw at BBVA Compass Stadium pushed Houston's season record to 6-2-2 (20 points) and placed them in fourth place in the Western Conference standings of Major League Soccer.

Mauro Manotas' goal in the 40th minute tied him with Brad Davis (41) for third on the club's regular-season goal list. The goal also increased his total for the season  to six, which leads the club this season. The goal was scored with assists by Alberth Elis and Memo Rodríguez. Elis' assist gives him six for the season, which also leads the team. The Timbers' goal came in the 77th minute when Brian Fernández score in the 77th minute, with an assist by  Sebastián Blanco.

Houston will have a scant three days to prepare for their next match; a Saturday, May 18 meeting with Wayne Rooney and DC United. The "Black-and-Red" top the Eastern Conference with a 7-3-3 record. Rooney lead DC United with six goals this season, with two of them from penalty kicks. He also leads his team in assists (4), shots (34), and shots on goal (13). Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. CDT. The game theme of the match is "Superhero Night" presented by Greater Houston Honda Dealers.

Sugar Land falls 3-1 to Long Island on Mother's Day

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

SUGAR LAND, TEXAS (May 12, 2019) The Sugar Land Skeeters (10-7) could manage only a single hit until the ninth inning, when CF Jared Mitchell tagged a home run over the right field fence, as they dropped a 3-1 decision to the Long Island Ducks (12-4) at Constellation Field on Mother's Day. Right fielder C.J. McElroy singled on a bunt to second base as the lead off batter in the bottom of the first inning. The Skeeters added another hit, off Miller's home run, and an additional single in the ninth inning by DH Courtney Hawkins,

The Ducks tallied all three of their runs in the third inning; with scores by DH Rey Fuentes, CF Kirk Nieuwenhuis, and SS Vladimir Frias.

With the loss, the Skeeters posts 1-2 record versus the Ducks to complete their current series. Sugar Land took the first game, on Friday evening, by the score of 4-3. They dropped an 8-5 decision, in 11 innings on Saturday night. The Skeeters will take on the York Revolution at 7:05 p.m. CDT on Monday, May 13, to kickoff a seven-game series.

Head Coach Jill Ellis announces USWNT roster for 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup

By Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

SEABROOK, TEXAS (May 8,  2019) On May 1, 2019, Women’s National Team (USWNT) head coach Jill Ellis announced her roster of 23 players selected to represent the United States in the FIFA Women’s World Cup that will be played this summer. This announcement comes as almost no surprise to fans who have followed the USWNT during the last World Cup where the United States won the tournament for a third time in USWNT history. 

Ellis made her selection based on the friendlies that the US played as well as monitoring the NWSL action. Let’s break this down by positions: 

Goalkeepers: Ellis selected two veterans in Ashlyn Harris and Alyssa Naeher. Naeher has been Ellis’ go-to keeper since the fiery departure of Hope Solo. She has also called on World Cup rookie Adrianna Franch, who has made quite a name for herself around the NWSL as one of the premier keepers in the league. 

Defenders: Assisting the goalkeepers is are seven world class defenders. They will be anchored by Ali Krieger, Kelley O’Hara and Becky Sauerbrunn who all have 3 time appearances in World Cup action. Ellis selected four rookies in Abby Dahlkemper, Tierna Davidson, Crystal Dunn and Emily Sonnett. Krieger was the surprise, while die-hard fans were rooting for her return to USWNT soccer, seeking that elusive 100th cap. 

Midfielders: This position lacks the depth of veterans as the defenders and forwards have. They are anchored by Morgan Brian and Julie Ertz who both have two previous appearances in World Cup play. Rookies are Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle, Allie Long, and Samantha Mewis. Do not discount the rookies who have seen international action previously. Horan played for Paris Saint-Germain for four years prior to joining the Portland Thorns. 

Forwards: Of all the positions this group has the most returners. Carli Lloyd will return for her fourth World Cup, while Tobin Heath, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe will return for their third WC appearances. Christen Press will see her second World Cup dreams being realized and rookies Jessica McDonald, Mallory Pugh are the newcomers hoping to hoist the trophy for the first time. 

Ellis stated at the roster press release “...it’s a group that has the talent, confidence, experience and desire to help us win the World Cup.” 

All eyes will turn to France where the Women’s World Cup will begin June 7, 2019 and run until July 7, 2019.

Houston downs Dallas in first game of Texas Derby

After the match, BBVA Compass Stadium broadcast
The Kentucky Derby on the scoreboard
for the soccer fans to watch.

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 4, 2019) With a totally domination of FC Dallas (5-3-2, 17 points), forward Mauro Manotas scored a brace to give the Houston Dyanmo a 2-1 win in the first match of the Texas Derby, played at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston. The goals were his fourth and fifth of the season, and raised his career total to 40.

The first score came in the 21st minute on a penalty kick; putting the ball past Dallas goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez and into the back of the goal. The PK was awarded when Alberth Elis was tripped in the box; causing Dallas fans to question the penalty, since the call was not reviewed by the game officials.

His brace occured in the 58th minute, when the Dynamo counterattacked, bringing the ball down the pitch, with Elis nailing a pass to Manotas. The Colombian right-footed the ball from the right side of the box; again getting the ball past Gonzalez.

The match was the first of two meetings between Houston and Dallas this season. The second game will be played at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, on Saturday, August 24. Houston won the Texas Derby, and the "possession" of El Capitan, a Texas Revolutionary War-era cannon. The fully functional cannon was won by the Dynamo in 2016; retaining it in 2017, before Dallas Captures it last season. 

With the win, Houston moves to 6-1-1 (19 points) and gives them their fifth straight home victory; improving their home record to 5-0-1. It also improved Houston's record versus Dallas to 11-10-13 all-time and 8-4-6 in Houston. It also improved the Dynamo's record against Western Conference opponents to 4-1-1 on the year.

Next up for the Dynamo is a Saturday, May 11 game against Seattle Sounders FC at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, with a 9 p.m. CDT start.

Solid passing, advancing the ball keys to Houston Dash downing Orlando on Sunday, May 5

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis
La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

By Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 4, 2019) The Houston Dash lost to the North Carolina Courage by the score of 4-1 this past Sunday (April 28) at BBVA Compaass Stadium. The score did noy reflect the amount of work the Dash displayed on the field and in practice. It was easy to see that the Houston did their homework ahead of the 2018 NWSL Champions coming to Houston. They did a great job defensively and had a pretty decent showing offensively. Their passing game has come a long ways in the past two seasons. They are making better connections with their passing and communicating within those passing opportunities much better than in previous seasons.

While the passing game is coming together, was a major disconnect between the Dash midfielders and the forwards. It looked as if the game plan was to keep the midfielders from crossing the midfield area and take a more defensive role and not assist the forwards in advancing toward scoring opportunities. The only problem with this idea was when of the two designated forwards advanced the ball with their speed, the offsides call was made because there were not enough players across the line when a shot was attempted. Rachel Daly (No. 3, shown above right) scored a beautiful goal that was called back for this reason. She tried to argue the call knowing it was going to a fruitless argument.

The coaches made some great strategic moves to make positive changes, but it was too little too late when the Courage scored 3 goals in the second half. While the four goals scored would clearly point to a goalkeeping issue, that is not the case in the Dash defensive line. Jane Campbell had a spectacular save in the free kick that the Courage were awarded. She also had a number of “Save of the Week” worthy saves. It can clearly be seen that the Dash’s full time goalkeeper coach is doing great work and making great strides in this area.

The Dash will take on the Orlando Pride this Sunday. Hopefully their offensive woes will not carry over on to this game and the Dash can get back to their solid passing skills and advancing the ball without so many offsides calls.

Houston Dynamo top Columbus Crew, 2-0

Photo by
Darla Tamulitis
La Vita Photography
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

By Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 27, 2019) Against a near perfect backdrop, the Houston Dynamo took on Columbus Crew SC, Saturday night at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston. The Dynamo came out showing their strength with a goal in the third minute, from Mauro Manotas, on a touch pass from Alberto Elis. The opening 20 minutes showcased a great deal of volleying back and forth between the two teams; with Houston outshoting the Crew 4 to 1, in those first 20 minutes. There were a series of great long passes by the Dynamo, and with Elis setting up Memo Rodriguez for the shot on goal, but it missed over the top of the goal. 

Then, Houston’s Maynor Figueroa was putting pressure on the Crew with great defensive plays to contain the Crew’s offense and not allow any goals in the 30 minutes of play. In the 41st minute Lundkvist make a spectacular move to keep the ball out of the goal and denying the Crew the best chance to score in the first half. A yellow card shown to olumbus' Waylon Francis in the 50th minute. The penalty kick was taken by Memo Rodriguez, with the ball hitting the top of the crossbars bringing the Dynamo to 12 shots on goal to the Crew’s nine. The scoring opened up with a goal by Tomas Martinez in the 54th minute. 

Dynamo Head Coach Wilmer Cabrera discussed the outcome the game after the match.

“Yes, I think it went well. Of course, when we start winning in the third minute of the game it’s always positive. But we knew that we had to face a very talented team. Columbus Crew is a very talented team despite they made some changes because they played midweek. They are talented. They have quality and normally they have possession over the opponents. So, we wanted to be sure that we couldn’t give them the ball the whole time, otherwise they are going to get motivated and they’re talented, so are going to feel comfortable. I think we did a good job trying to put pressure, trying to alternate the pressure—high pressure. We also tried to move the ball and play. We could have done better in the first half with our possession, but I think we created some good options. We continue trying to bring goals which is positive and the second half we had the possibility to score a second one which gave us a little more calmness to finish the game. I think we closed it, the game, very well. It was important for us to close the game to feel like we can have a clean sheet, first game of the season. So, that is also very positive for us, especially for the boys because it is solid performance when you win 2-0 at home, when you don’t receive a goal it’s positive. So, we’re happy about that.”

Play was temporarily halted to escort a fan who ran onto the pitch in the 76th minute prior to a Houston substitution. The game continued after the fan was arrested; showcasing both team’s long and short passing abilities. The game ended with a 2-0 score in favor of the Dynamo. Houston is back in action Saturday, May 4th in a match against Dallas in Frisco.

Escape, Bag of Donuts kick off Friday enetrtainment at Pasadena Strawberry Festival

Bag of Donuts will take to the main stage at the
Pasadena Strawberry Festival at 10 p.m.
on Friday, May 12, 2019.
Photo courtesy of Bag of Donuts and Jonathan Hoerner.

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (April 26, 2019) Escape and Bag of Donuts will kick off opening night entertainment at the 46th Annual Pasadena Strawberry Festival on Friday, May 12, 2019. Both musical acts will perform on the main stage of the Pasadena Municipal Fairgrounds in Pasadena.

Beginning the evening's entertainment will be Escape, who are billed as a "Journey" Tribute Band. Members include Tom Calandra on vocals, Bobby Cayton (bass/vocals), Joel Gregoire (guitar/vocals), Josh Howe (keyboards/vocals) and Wesley Murrell on drums. The group was founded in 2000 and has performed at numerous venues and events in the Houston and Texas Gulf Coast area. They will perform from 8 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. to begin the enetrtainment for the evening.

Taking the stage at 10 p.m. will be Bag of Donuts from New Orleans, Louisiana. They are described on their Facebook page as follows.

There is a visual history in New Orleans culture. Mardi Gras Indians, street parades, make-up, costumes, Carnival, city art, artists both local and transplant alike are only a small portion of the rich tradition. The world renowned music scene has given birth to such art and much has been documented as to it's importance in wider pop culture. Enter Bag of Donuts.The New Orleans based quartet have been engaged in such endeavors for over two decades. Having celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2012, the momentum only seems to be building. Along with their flair for kabuki make-up and extravagant costumes, the four New Orleans natives cover songs in a style they have branded as Superpop: Any song popular from any era. Their flamboyant performances are a combination of ultimate showmanship, call and response audience participation, visual ingenuity, professional musicianship and pure entertainment with a nod to the comedy gods.

The band consists of lead vocal Bobby Hoerner, who also plays cowbells and percussion, Jonathan Hoerner on guitar and vocals Jerry Christopher, Jr., bass and vocals, and Kevin George on drums and sample pad.

Discount admission tickets can be purchased at www.strawberryfestival.com with free parking available at San Jacinto College.

46th Pasadena Strawberry Festival begins Friday, May 17

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (April 21, 2019) The 46th Annual Pasadena Strawberry Festival, scheduled for May 17-19, 2019, promises three days of fun-filled enetrtainment, activities, and events at the Pasadena Municipal Fairgrounds, located at 7902 Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena, Texas. This year's events include three days of concerts, along with carnival rides and games, a petting zoo, in addition to a car, truck and motorcycle show, and the world's largest strawberry shortcake.

The festival begin on Friday, May 17, from 3 p.m. until 12 midnight. Saturday, May 18 activities will begin at 10 a.m. and end, again, at 12  midnight. Sunday, May 19 events will run from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

On the main stage, entertainment is scheduled for all three days, beginning on Friday with Escape, a Journey tribute band from 8-9:30 p.m. Following at 10 p.m., Bag of Donuts will perform a one-and-a-half hour concert.

Saturday sees four performers taking the stage; including Justin Taylor (3:30-5:30 p.m.), Dalton Domino (6-7:30 p.m.), Randall King (8-9:30 p.m.) with Josh Ward rounding out the evening's enetrtainment from 10-11:30 p.m. The Samy Jo Band will preform on Sunday from 3-5 p.m.

Free parking will be available at San Jacinto College with free shuttle rides from the college to the fairgrounds. Discount admission tickets can be purchased at www.strawberryfestival.com.

Houston Dash earn first win of 2019 season with 1-0 victory over Sky Blue FC

Photo courtesy of
Paul-Michael Ochoa and Major League Soccer
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 20, 2019) The Houston Dash and Sky Blue FC battled for 83 minutes, after which midfielder Sofia Huerta broke the scoring drought to give Houston a 1-0 win on Saturday evening.  The fleet-footed Heurta left-footed the ball past Sky Blue goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan from outside the box, to the bottom left corner. It was the first goal of the season for the 28-year-old who played her college soccer for the Santa Clara Broncos. The win gave the Dash three points, pushing their season total to four and  third place in the current NWSL standings. 

The Dash took 11 shots on goal; 10 more than Sky Blue could manage. Houston controlled most of the game; including shots (19-8), blocked shots (3-2), corners (8-3), crosses (21-8), and total passes (496-418), and possession (54-7%-45.3%).

Two yellow cards were issued during the match. The first was to Dash defender Lindsay Agnew in the 49th minute and to Sky Blue midfielder Carli Lloyd; both for "unsporting behavior." At the 63rd minute, Houston  midfielder Kristie Mewis entered the game for Agnew, stepping foot on the field for the first time since her knee injury last May. Along with Mewis, forward Jamia Fields entered the game for midfielder Sophia Schmidt, making her Dash debut.

Houston Dynamo drops heartbreaker in final minutes to LA Galaxy

By Chris Price
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (April 19, 2019) The Houston Dynamo dropped their record to 4-1-1 (13 points) with a 2-1 loss to the LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California on Friday evening. 

The Galaxy scored in the 31st minute on a penalty kick by Zlata Ibrahimovic. The Dynamo responded with their own penalty kick by forward Alberth Elis in the 53rd minute. Diego Polenta nailed the game clincher in the 88th minute to give Houston their first loss of the season. Elis scored for the fourth consecutive game when he converted the penalty kick. The scoring streak is the longest of his MLS career. In addition, he improved to five-for-five in his MLS career on penalty attempts and started for the 50th time in league play with the Dynamo and made his 61st career league appearance.

Midfielder Boniek García made his 201st appearance for the Dynamo in all competitions this evening, which placed him in a tie with former Houston FW Will Bruin for sixth on the club’s all-time list.  TheDynamo and the Galaxy each had 13 shots in the game. It was the first time this season that the Dynamo and their opponent were level on shots. Houston’s 450 total passes were the second-most in a game this season, behind only their 494 passes against Montreal on March 9.

The Galaxy struck first when Ibrahimovic converted the penalty kick. It was the third time this year that Houston conceded the game’s opening goal, and the Dynamo are now 1-1-1 in those games. Los Angeles also had the better of possession, holding the ball for 51.3 percent of the game. It was the fourth time this season that the Dynamo had less possession than their opponent, and they are now 3-1-0 in those games.

The Dynamo return home to BBVA Compass Stadium on Saturday, April 27 to host Columbus Crew SC for the club’s inaugural End Cancer Night, presented by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. 

Houston Dash to face Sky Blue FC after 1-1 draw against Seattle Reign FC

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

By Jennifer Edwards

Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 20, 2019) Against a new, perfect backdrop, the Houston Dash took on Seattle Reign FC at BBVA Compass Stadium on Sunday, April 14, 2019.  The game also celebrated a milestone. Defender Amber Brooks (shown right) celebrated her 100th game in the NWSL. Brooks is a mainstay of the Dash defense and did not disappoint during the game. Her tenacity and new found confidence on the field and propelled the Dash to a 1-1 draw.

In addition to the celebration, the Dash organization ushered in their newest head coach, James Clarkson. Clarkson’s entrance marks the end of the short lived Vera Pauw era. While Pauw wanted the fans, including the locally famed Bayou City Republic, to quiet down so the players could hear her, Clarkson has taken an opposite stance. 

Bayou City Republic was allowed to let loose and hype the fans up. For those unfamiliar with the Dash, Bayou City Republic is to the Dash, what the Texian Army is to the Dynamo. Coming with drums of all varieties, they bring banners and joyful music with them. They are the official host of the Houston Dash watch parties and keep the spirit alive during away games. 

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

With that being said, Clarkson is already making an indelible mark on the Dash. Players have said countless times that there is more club chemistry and that there are good vibes within the team. That is showing on the pitch. The passing game, while rough at times, has amazing potential. With the addition of a few new faces on the Starting 11 in Christine Nairn and Sophie Schmidt, it is easy to see how the passing game will evolve and get stronger as the ladies’ playing time increases. One potential Achilles heel could be the lack of strength at the midfielder level. 

Clarkson put Haley Hanson, traditionally a midfielder, in as a second half substitution for forward Nichelle Prince. It was easy to see she would need some work if she is going to transition to being a forward. In spite of this substitution, the mid-fielders looked tired in chasing the ball during the second half of the game. Hopefully, this area of play will gain the same strength and fighting power as the forwards. Overall it was a great outing for the Dash, holding the Reign to the 1-1 draw.

Looking forward to this evening's game against Sky Blue FC, the Dash will face two-time FIFA Women’s Player of the Year, Carli Lloyd at 5 p.m. at Yurcak Field. 

Houston Dash, Seattle Reign battle to 1-1 draw to kickoff 2019 NWSL season

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 14, 2019) In a match that saw Nichelle Prince (shown right) get the first goal of the 2019 season, the Houston Dash battled to a one-all draw against Seattle Reign FC at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston. The fleet-footed forward pounced on a loose ball in the 10th minute of the game; tucking it to the far post for the score. The Canadian as already matched her goal total for 2018, where she played in 19 games while starting in 11.

The match was a back-and-forth affair, with the Dash holding the lead until the 58th minute, when Darian Jenkins shot from the top of the box. The ball was deflected and wrong-footed past Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell for the goal; her first in a Reign uniform.

In the 20th minute, Reign forward Jasmyne Spencer stretchered off the field with an injury. The injury, along with Prince's goal, slowed Seattle's control of the game. Houston played aggressively, with Rachel Daly and Kalia Ohai taking shots on goal that were either wide or blocked by Seattle.

You can view the photo slideshow from the game, by 

Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loco Photography by clicking here.

With added time running out in the second half, Campbell saved the draw for Houston, when Reign FC forward was warded a penalty kick. Campbell blocked the shot to end the game. It block was Campbell’s fourth penalty kick save in the league, the second most in NWSL history.

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
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The draw earned one point for the Dash, in head coach James Clarkson's debut. In addition, the match was defender Amber Brooks' (shown left) 100th regular season appearance in the NWSL. She wa shonored prior to the game for the achievement.

For their second game of the season, the Dash will travel to Piscataway, New Jersey to take on Sky Blue FC on Saturday, April 20, with a 5 p.m. CST at Yurcak Field. In their first match of 2019, Sky Blue fell 2-0 to the Washington Spirit.

Three Aggie victories highlight first day of Texas A&M Invitational

Photo courtesy of
Russell James and
Texas A&M UniveristyAthletics Communications

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS (April 12, 2019) A trio of Aggie victories highlighted Friday’s portion of the Texas A&M Invitational among eight field events contested at E.B. Cushing Stadium. Tyra Gittens (shown right) claimed the long jump, Maddy Stulce won the women’s javelin and Sam Hardin bettered the field in the men’s javelin.

Through four field events for the women the Aggies scored 48 points, which places them ahead of Houston (31), UTSA (20), Arizona State (18) and Sam Houston (14.5). The A&M men, through four field events, have scored 42 points to lead Houston (26), Sam Houston (20), UTSA (14) and Rice (12).

Action in the Texas A&M Invitational continues on Saturday with field events starting at 3 p.m. while running events begin at 5:30 following an Aggie ring presentation at 5:15 p.m.

Gittens won the long jump with a leap of 20-9 (6.32) in the fifth round. She trailed the leading mark of 20-7 ¼ (6.28w) set by Houston’s Samiyah Samuels in the opening stanza. Gittens came within a quarter inch of the leading mark with a 20-7 (6.27) in the fourth round and then moved into the lead on her next attempt.

“After the first three jumps I was warm and excited,” noted Gittens. “In the final three rounds I was ready to bring it. I’m happy to start off my season in the long jump like this, which is better than I thought I would do today.”

Aggie teammates LaJarvia Brown and Virginia Kerley produced their career best marks in placing third and fourth. Brown had a windy 20-5 (6.22) in the final round, but also registered a wind-legal career best of 20-3 (6.17). Kerley improved upon her high school best of 19-7 ½ with a career best jump of 19-10 ¾ (6.06) in the third round and then had a barely windy best of 20-2 ¼ (6.15) in the fifth stanza. Taryn Milton finished eighth with a windy 19-3 ½ (5.88).

“I definitely feed off my teammates,” added Gittens. “It’s good when you are performing well, but it’s even better when your teammates are doing good also.”

Maddy Stulce won the javelin on her first round throw of 166-9 (50.84), and then improved to 173-2 (52.78) in the final round to secure a second consecutive victory at Cushing Stadium. Runner-up to Stulce was a 165-6 (50.44) by UTEP’s Roosa Yloenen.

Celine Markert placed third in the javelin as she had another improvement in an event she just started this outdoor season. Coming into the meet with a best of 154-9 (47.18) from The Reveille last week, Markert bettered it in round three with a 158-4 (48.26) toss. Then she produced another five-foot improvement with a throw of 163-9 (49.91).

Aggies also placed fourth and fifth in the javelin with Jenna Ellis (146-5) and Natalie Scheifele (141-3).

Hardin led a 1-2-4 A&M finish in the men’s javelin as his opening throw of 236-10 (72.20) locked up his second victory at Cushing Stadium. Nick Mirabelli followed with a 220-6 (67.21) from the second round while William Petersson finished fourth with a mark of 204-2 (62.23). Rice’s Dane Stolsig placed third at 204-8 (62.39).

A runner-up finish in the high jump by Mason Farley produced a clearance of 6-10 ¼ (2.09), which was just a quarter of an inch off his career best. Three attempts at 6-11 ½ (2.12) followed, but Farley and winner Elijah Hughes of Arizona State missed all three attempts. Alstian Walker made it over 6-8 ¼ (2.04) to place fourth while Jake Lamberth (6-6 ¼) and Mason Corbin (6-4 ¼) were eighth and ninth.

Robin Nool, who will compete in the pole vault on Saturday, had a windy 23-8 (7.21) to finish fourth in the men’s long jump.

Markert started the afternoon off with a throw of 167-11 (51.19) to place seventh in the women’s hammer. KJ Grimes placed ninth in the men’s hammer with a career best throw of 173-11 (53.03) as he remained in the No. 7 position on the A&M all-time list. Hunter Madore placed 14^th with a toss of 150-10 (45.98).