Dynamo 2sday: Dos rebound with win in Minnesota
(image via Minnesota United FC)
It was another crucial week for Houston Dynamo 2 after two consecutive losses. Positioned at the bottom of the Western Conference, Dynamo Dos faced off against Minnesota United 2, who was just one point ahead of them in the Western Conference table going into Sunday’s match.
Coach Kenny Bundy hinted at changes ahead of the match, stating to the media in his pre-match press conference, "you're going to see a different team." He emphasized the club's pursuit of winners and leaders, crucial for their development.
The starting XI for Dynamo 2 featured Xavier Valdez in goal, with Kieran Sargeant, Isaac Mwakutuya, Femi Awodesu, and Tate Lampman forming the defense. Sebastian Rodriguez, Diego Gonzalez (captain), and Jefferson Valverde anchored the midfield, supporting Ousmane Sylla, Stephen Annor, and Mattheo Dimarelli up front.
Dynamo Dos arrived in Minnesota on a five-match winless streak, while Minnesota United 2 were also struggling with four consecutive losses. Both teams were eager for a turnaround. Minnesota initiated the attack early in the ninth minute from a set piece, following a foul by Lampman, who received a yellow card. Despite a close attempt, Valdez managed to keep the ball out.
In the 11th minute, Dynamo 2 responded swiftly. Dimarelli delivered a precise pass to Sylla, who skillfully found the net, placing the orange-clad team in the lead 1-0 early on.
Shortly after, Dynamo 2 thought they had extended their lead through Annor, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
Dimarelli, still hunting for his first professional goal, came close twice in the first half, narrowly missing the target on both occasions. Dynamo Dos created several chances, showing greater attacking intent than their opponents.
In the 37th minute, Minnesota almost equalized with a shot hitting the post before being secured by Valdez. Jordan Adebayo-Smith's speedy breakaway further tested Dynamo 2's defense, but his chip shot hit the post, denying Minnesota the equalizer.
Annor doubled Dynamo 2's lead to 2-0 in the 50th minute, converting Gonzalez's long pass into a goal with a header on the run. The goal was a morale booster for the youngster, who had been denied earlier opportunities.
Minnesota United 2 pulled one back in the 68th minute from a corner kick, with Aidan Martinez finding the net and revitalizing his team's hopes.
As the match entered its final stages, Isaiah Reid, who had replaced Dimarelli, sealed Dynamo Dos's victory with a powerful shot into the net in the 80th minute to make the score 3-1 and put the game out of reach.
The win was crucial for Houston Dynamo 2, potentially signaling a turnaround in their fortunes this season. Their next match is against Ventura County FC, formerly LA Galaxy II, on Friday, July 5th at 9 PM in California. Fans can catch all the action on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
