Houston obtained three golden points to help them in their hunt to get into the MLS Playoffs. Hondurans Alberth Elis, who is in a great form, and Romell Quito scored once a piece to give their side a 2-1 win in a back to back home matches.
As usual, Houston’s coach Wilmer Cabrera moved his pieces once again. Colombian Mauro Manotas started the match in place of ‘Cubo’ Torres. Also, Eric Alexander, who has not been getting much playing time, started in place of injury Juan Cabezas. DaMarcus Beasley, who was part of the line-up during last match, saw action until the second half. This is a big problem Cabrera is creating for his team. On one hand, he has some depth in his roster, but on the other, he is not giving his players the stability and confidence to continue playing in every match. Therefore, the team is struggling at times, as well as not performing as they should.
But now, let’s talk about the match. Minnesota mindset was to be solid in defense and try to surprise ‘the orange’ in offense. And they were close to do it in the first minutes of the match, as Christian Ramirez was close to give the lead to his side, after a fast counter attack. Besides that play, the opportunities for the Loons were not too many.
The Dynamo on the other hand, created many opportunities to open the score. And even though they had several chances, the last touch was not as effective as in other matches. The crowd never gave up on his team since they continue supporting their team throughout the match. And certainly, the support seemed to work in favor of the team, which continued pressuring and attacking a defensive Minnesota team, which was happy with the tie at that moment.
However, the Loons lack of attack and mistakes in midfield came to hunt them when in the 69th minute of the match, fan favorite, ‘La Panterita’ Elis, scored the 1-0 for Houston. The 2-0 for the home team came in late when Quioto scored at the 85th minute. Minnesota’s Sam Nicholson scored the 2-1 for the away team in stoppage time with a shot outside the box that surprised GK Tyler Deric.
With the win Houston moves to the 5th place with 43 points, whereas Minnesota remains in the low part of the standings with 32 points.
Houston Dynamo
Minnesota United FC
