Dynamo 2sday: Dos Fight On as Playoff Race Tightens
(image via Houston Dynamo FC)
With only two matches left in the regular season, Houston Dynamo 2 are still holding on to hope for a playoff spot. The challenge, however, is that their fate is no longer entirely in their own hands — not only will they need strong results in their final games, but they’ll also have to rely on how other Western Conference rivals perform down the stretch.
Colorado Rapids II vs. Houston Dynamo 2
Last Sunday, September 14, Dynamo Dos pulled off a gritty 1–0 away victory over third-place Colorado Rapids II. Despite going down to 10 men early after taking the lead, Marcelo Santos’ side defended with determination to secure all three points on the road — a massive boost to their playoff push.
Houston Dynamo 2 vs. Tacoma Defiance
Just three days later, Dynamo Dos were back in action, hosting Tacoma Defiance in a quick turnaround. Tacoma struck first when a clever through ball split the defense, leaving Yu Tsukanome alone against goalkeeper Pedro Cruz to make it 1–0.
The boys in orange responded 12 minutes later. After several close chances, Noah Betancourt — who recently signed his first professional contract — sparked the attack with a switch to the right side. He then continued his run into the box, where Matthew Arana found him with a return pass. Betancourt finished the move with a one-touch strike into the net, leveling the match at 1–1.
The momentum, however, didn’t last long. Just before halftime, Tacoma regained the lead from a set piece as Leo Burney rose highest to head home what proved to be the winning goal.
Dynamo Dos thought they had equalized in stoppage time of the first half when Stephen Annor put the ball in the back of the net, but the celebrations were cut short as the assistant referee flagged for offside.
In the second half, Dynamo Dos continued to push, firing off 16 shots (8 on target), but Tacoma goalkeeper Noah Newman stood tall with several key saves to preserve the result.
After the 2–1 defeat, head coach Marcelo Santos praised his players’ spirit, saying he was proud of “the heart of his players and the effort given,” as well as highlighting the role of local and academy talent contributing throughout the season.
What’s Next
Dynamo Dos still have a chance to keep their playoff dreams alive when they host Portland Timbers 2 this Sunday, September 21 at 7 PM at SaberCats Stadium. With both sides still chasing a postseason berth, it promises to be a crucial battle. Fans can attend the match for free or watch live on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
