Dash Stun Current to Keep Playoff Dream Alive
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash closed out their home schedule in style, handing the Kansas City Current their first loss in months with a 1–0 win at Shell Energy Stadium. The result snapped KC’s impressive 17 match unbeaten streak and marked a memorable result for the club. The win also keeps the Dash’s small playoff hopes alive, for now.
Following last week’s defeat at Angel City FC, head coach Fabrice Gautrat made several changes to the lineup. Jane Campbell returned to goal after recovering from injury, Lisa Boattin started at left back, and Messiah Bright led the forward line in place of Clarisa Larisey.
Early in the first half, Kansas City suffered a major setback when forward Temwa Chawinga was forced off with an apparent injury. While the Current controlled possession and outshot Houston, the Dash stayed organized defensively and limited clear scoring chances on both ends.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Kansas City dictating play but Houston showing more fight and intent on the counter. The breakthrough came in the 69th minute when Yazmeen Ryan burst down the right flank and squared a low pass into the box. Sarah Puntigam cleverly let the ball run through to Ryan Gareis, who finished calmly to give Houston the lead.
The Dash held firm the rest of the way, anchored by Campbell’s leadership in goal. The victory not only ends KC’s streak but also injects belief and momentum into a Houston side looking ahead to 2026.
Whether or not the Dash make a late playoff push, this win serves as a statement of progress under Gautrat.
Houston wraps up the regular season on November 2, traveling to face the Portland Thorns. Kickoff time and broadcast details are yet to be announced.
