Dynamo 2sday: Dos climb back into playoff positions
(image via Houston Dynamo FC)
The already eliminated Colorado Rapids 2 traveled to Houston to face Dynamo 2 in a crucial match for the latter's push for the MLS NEXT Pro playoffs. With SKC 2 playing simultaneously and Austin FC II scheduled for a later match, there was no room for error for Jeremy Hurdle's team.
After 30 minutes of midfield battles, Ousmane Sylla broke away into the box, where a Colorado defender made contact as he prepared to shoot. This foul resulted in a penalty kick for Dynamo Dos. Captain Diego Gonzalez stepped up to convert the penalty, giving Dos the 1-0 lead.
As the first half neared its end, Colorado nearly equalized when forward Daniel Chacon's header went inches over the bar.
The second half was quieter for both teams, but in the 82nd minute, a counter-attack ignited Dynamo Dos. Once again, Sylla orchestrated the play, finding new signing Andy Batioja—who had just entered the match—at the top of the box. Batioja curled a shot past the goalkeeper, securing Houston’s second goal of the night.
In the 89th minute, Colorado found an opportunity when Xavier Valdez miscleared a ball, allowing Colton Swan to slot it home inside the box. Dynamo 2 had to hold on for dear life to secure the three points, which they did as the final whistle blew.
Dynamo Dos also kept an eye on other matches across the league affecting their standings. As they celebrated their victory, they learned that SKC II had lost 4-2 to Minnesota United FC II. This result moved Dynamo 2 ahead of SKC II, but they still awaited the outcome of the Austin FC II vs. North Texas SC match. Fortunately for Houston, North Texas SC secured a 2-1 victory, solidifying their playoff spot with two matches remaining, putting them seven points clear.
This left Houston in 8th place, the last playoff spot, with 36 points, while Portland Timbers 2 followed closely in 9th with 35 points. Sporting Kansas City II, Real Monarchs, and Austin FC II rounded out the standings in 10th, 11th, and 12th with 34 points each.
Houston will travel to the Pacific Northwest to face playoff-bound Tacoma Defiance, who are looking to secure home-field advantage for the postseason. The match is scheduled for Sunday, September 29, at 9 PM. As always, you can catch the action at MLSNextPro.com. #VamosDos
