Dynamo look for first points in Austin
(image via Ricky Vega)
The Houston Dynamo have headed west on Highway 290 to the state capital for a match against Austin FC. The Dynamo drew 1-1 on Wednesday night at home against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Austin also drew 1-1 Wednesday, on the road against LAFC.
When: Saturday, September 21 | 7:40 PM CT kickoff
Where: Q2 Stadium; Austin, Texas
TV/Stream: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
Radio: TUDN Deportes Houston 93.3 FM (Spanish)
Ride the Hot Hand
Ezequiel Ponce scored from the penalty spot on Wednesday, his fourth goal in six games, including Leagues Cup. The new Designated Player is in flying form but he and the Dynamo coaching staff have to feel he has more in him. Ponce has been getting a number of good looks in recent games, in addition to the goals he’s scored. If the Argentinian can start converting even more on good chances in the boxes, the goals will start piling up.
Set Pieces
The Dynamo have just three goals this season created off of dead ball, set piece situations. Houston had 13 corner kicks against Vancouver last match but could only muster an Erik Sviatchenko header off the bar from them. With Ponce active in the box and players like Amine Bassi and Aliyu Ibrahim able to create on the edge of the area, the Dynamo will continue winning free kicks and corners. Will they be able to convert from them?
Austin City Limits
Austin FC is still a relatively young team but the Dynamo have never gotten a point at Q2 Stadium. No wins and no draws. On top of that, Austin has won the last three meetings between these in-state rivals, including one at Shell Energy Stadium in April. Austin comes into this match fighting for their playoff lives. The Verde are currently four points behind ninth place Minnesota United for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. A third win in 2024 over Houston would be something to celebrate for Austin fans, but also help them climb closer to the postseason picture.
Houston Dynamo – Out: Lawrence Ennali (knee), Nelson Quinones (knee), Hector Herrera (hamstring)
Austin FC – Out: Matt Hedges (hip flexor); Questionable: Mikkel Desler (ankle)
Predicted Lineup
