Dynamo opened the MLS Phase II hosting, for the second time this season, Minnesota United. This match also marked the return of fans to sporting events in the Space City since the month of March. About two thousand fans were in attendance at BBVA Stadium on Saturday night.
The first time the Loons visited Htown they lost 3-0 on September 2nd. This time the Orange was missing a key player in Alberth Elis, who left the MLS to fulfill his dream of playing in Europe as he headed to Portugal to play for Boavista.
On the other hand, the Loons came to Houston with the idea of getting some away points that will help the team stay in the in the top part of the standing in the West.
The away team started this match on the right foot as they went up in the score early in the match. After a fast counterattack, Kevin Molino scored the first goal of the match at the 11th minute.
After the goal, Houston was the team who dominated the midfield and control the possession of the ball. They created some chances to get the equalizer, but goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair had different plans. The clearest chance for the home team to tie the score during the first forty-five came in at the 16th minute when Darwin Quintero penalty kick was blocked by St. Clair to help his side to remain with the lead.
The visitors doubled the lead before going into the half after another fast play in offense. This time, Robin Lod found the ball inside the small box after a shot by his teammate Molino was saved by Dynamo goalkeeper Marko Maric.
The second half started by the home team controlling the actions and finding more and more opportunities to get a goal. Houston strong midfield nullified their opponent and pushed them back on their own territory. Of course, with the 2-0 lead Minnesota felt comfortable to play with a defensive mindset and try to keep attacking Houston using their speed in the counter without risking much.
However, controlling the pace of the match and creating opportunities for the Dynamo paid off as only thirteen minutes into the second half, Darwin Quintero found the ball outside the box and chipped it over St. Clair to score the partial 1-2.
At the 69th minute, the Orange tie the score when Quintero’s free kick hit the crossbar and the bounce found Honduran international Maynor Figueroa, who netted in for the partial 2-2. Houston continue attacking, but despite being the best team on the field, they were not able to capitalize it and the match ended with a 2-2 draw.
Now, Houston has 15 points after 12 matches, whereas Minnesota United after the away point has 18 points and remains in the top 4 of the conference. Next up for the Looms is a trip to Columbus to face the Crew on Wednesday, September 23rd. On the same day, Dynamo will visit the Windy City to play against the Chicago Fire.
