Dynamo FC defeat LA Galaxy in Decision Day Match-up
HOUSTON (Oct. 19, 2024)-- The
Houston Dynamo hosted the LA Galaxy for a memorable MLS Decision Day matchup
for the books. Ben Olsen’s team sealed the win after an exciting last-minute
goal that sparked chaos in the Western Conference standings.
Fans
at a sold-out Shell Energy Stadium experienced a rollercoaster of emotions as
both teams headed to the last regular season match with particular
responsibilities. Houston could not drop points to avoid the seventh seed
heading into playoff action and The Galaxy was in a must-win scenario to clinch
the first seed of the conference.
The
excitement started at the very end of the first half when Hector Herrera
connected with Ezequiel Ponce after a set-piece play down the right wing. The
Argentinian striker has scored 5 goals in 10 appearances for Los Naranjas.
Herrera was replaced before the start of the second half due to a reported
hamstring discomfort.
With
their backs against the wall, the LA Galaxy quickly started producing great
plays. Riqui Puig and Marco Reus connected well at the start of the second half
but could not convert the chances they created. The Galaxy’s dream to secure
the first seed in the West seemed to come to an end as LAFC was taking care of
business against an already eliminated San Jose side, reaching 64 points and
surpassing The Galaxy due to goal differential.
Brazilian
midfielder Artur committed what Houston fans labeled a “soft penalty” on the
Spanish gem and former FC Barcelona player Riqui Puig approaching the final
stages of the game. LA Galaxy’s winger Gabriel Pec translated the call into a
goal in the 97th minute, miraculously placing Greg Vanney’s team back at the
top of the conference.
However,
Houston’s resilience and effort demonstrated that at this point of the season,
one must fight until the final whistle to secure three points. A fast
counterattack down Houston’s right wing and a cross from Griffin Dorsey were
enough to place Daniel Steres into a scoring position. The Dynamo’s converted
left back surprisingly reached LA Galaxy’s 18-yard box to score a beautiful
header 11 minutes into stoppage time.
The
final whistle was blown seconds after Houston finished celebrating the
game-winning goal, causing great excitement at The Shell and allowing LAFC to
officially clinch the first seed of the conference over an LA Galaxy squad that
could not believe what they were witnessing. The Houston Dynamo clinched the
fifth position in the Western Conference above Minnesota and Colorado.
A
fan appreciation ceremony took place following the end of the match where Ben
Olsen thanked the fans for their support throughout the season. Olsen also
highlighted the importance of what is ahead and invited the fans to attend the
upcoming match against the Seattle Sounders on Sunday, October 27 for the first
round of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
For
more information regarding tickets, games, and roster updates visit
mlssoccer.com.
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