Houston Dash Fall 2–1 After Second-Half Surge from Angel City
(image via NWSL)
The Houston Dash slipped up against a strong Angel City FC side on Friday night, falling 2–1 in a top-of-the-table clash.
The night marked a milestone for Avery Patterson, who made her 50th start for the club.
Following an inspiring win over Boston Legacy, head coach Fabrice Gautrat opted to stick with the same lineup. Despite Lisa Boattin being cleared from injury, Leah Klenke retained her spot at left back, continuing her impressive run of form. Up front, Kiki Van Zanten once again led the line after her brace in the last match.
In what many expected to be a tense and cautious matchup, the Dash came out aggressive. Much like in recent weeks, they applied high pressure and moved the ball quickly and decisively. Their bright start paid off early. In the 10th minute, Patterson drove down the right flank and delivered a dangerous cross into the box. Makenzy Robbe rose to meet it and directed a header toward Maggie Graham, who finished calmly to give Houston a deserved 1–0 lead.
The Dash continued to create chances throughout the first half. Robbe mistimed a shot, Patterson saw an effort blocked, and Van Zanten sent a header wide. Despite only scoring once, Houston dominated the opening 45 minutes and carried a 1.24 expected goals (xG) total into halftime, their highest first-half mark this season, and arguably deserved a larger lead.
However, the missed opportunities proved costly.
Angel City came out flying in the second half and quickly turned the game around. In the 47th minute, Sveindís Jónsdóttir struck from outside the box, beating Jane Campbell and igniting the home crowd. Just two minutes later, a rapid counterattack led by Gisele Thompson caused chaos in the penalty area, allowing Riley Tiernan to tap in the go-ahead goal. Two goals in as many minutes flipped the match on its head and gave Angel City a 2–1 advantage.
The early second-half surge from Angel City ultimately decided the match. Houston struggled to respond, losing their rhythm and urgency as the game wore on. Despite their dominant first-half display, the Dash were unable to find an equalizer and were left to rue their missed chances.
Houston will look to bounce back next week when they host Racing Louisville on April 3 at 7:00 PM. The match will be available to stream on NWSL+.
