Houston Dynamo 4- New York Red Bulls 0
Being strong at home is what will take Houston to the playoffs and the team knows it. This is why after having a losing streak in the road, the Orange came back home and got an important win.
Getting back all the players, who were with their national teams, was a huge boost for the Dynamo to remain undefeated at home.
On the other hand, the New York Red Bulls came to Texas with a mission of getting at least a point to remain in a playoff spot in the Eastern conference. However, the task was difficult, and it was shown on the pitch.
The match started by both teams trying to neutralize the other one. High pressure by both teams was a tactic they used, but it seemed that it worked better for the visitors, at least the first 30-minutes. The New York team looked aggressive and tried to capitalize on a defensive Dynamo mistake. However, Houston defense had a solid match, especially since they had Maynor Figueroa back in the lineup. The Honduran, who missed some games due to the Gold Cup, has been an important piece in this Orange defense.
By trying to attack, the NYRB left some spaces in the back line and that help create some opportunities for the home team. Right after the halftime, a great played by Alberth Elis was finished by Mauro Manotas to open the score and gave the lead to Houston.
On the second half, Tomas Martinez doubled the lead for the Dyamo at the 52’. The third and fourth Dynamo goal came via Alberth Elis, who had a magnificent performance after coming back from his participation in the Gold Cup.
With the win, Houston sits in the sixth place of the West with 27 points. O the other hand, NYRB are also in the sixth place in the East with 27 points. The New York team will now visit Atlanta whereas the Dynamo will visit Cincinnati to try to get some points on the road.
Editor’s Note: All photos are courtesy of Jose Castellanos.
