Dynamo 2sday: Gonzalez thunderbolt leads Dos to shootout win
(image via The Town FC)
Houston Dynamo 2 journeyed to California last Friday, ready to tackle a fresh challenge against a new MLS NEXT Pro adversary, The Town FC, hailing from Moraga, California. Dos were still in search of the first win of the season after picking up their first point of 2024 the last time out.
In goal was Xavier Valdez, supported in defense by Maddox Findlay, Isaac Mwakutuya, Femi Awodesu, and David Ndong Nguema. Diego Gonzalez, Sebastian Rodriguez, and Brooklyn Raines anchored the midfield, while Ousmane Sylla, Ifu Achara, and Exon Arzu spearheaded the attack.
After a scoreless first half, the home team struck first in the opening minutes of the second half. Riley Lynch delivered a precise cross from the left. Roka Tsunehara got his head to it and found the back of the net, giving Town FC the lead in the 53rd minute.
Dynamo 2 pushed for an equalizer and nearly had it minutes later. An errant back pass from Edwin Mendoza forced Town goalkeeper Mikolaj Bieganski to retreat and clear the ball off his own line in the 58th minute. Sylla then had a big chance in the 69th minute. The rookie got the ball in the middle of the box but was denied by Bieganski at close range.
Just when defeat seemed imminent for Dynamo Dos, Diego Gonzalez seized an opportunity. The captain unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box that left Bieganski helpless. The ball nestled into the side netting, making the score 1-1 in the dying moments of the second half.
Buoyed by newfound confidence from the late goal, the visitors confidently stepped up for penalty kicks Gonzalez, Achara, Arzu, Raines, and Sylla all converted from the spot for Houston. Valdez saved The Town’s second attempt from Casey Walls, and it was all Dos needed. Dynamo 2 secured two points for winning the shootout, more valuable points as the young team continues to gel.
Dynamo 2 will return to action tomorrow night, venturing to Utah to take on Real Monarchs at 9 PM. With eyes set on claiming a full three points, Kenny Bundy's squad should anticipate a formidable challenge against a Real Monarchs side eager for redemption after a 3-2 home defeat to LAFC II this past weekend. Expect an electrifying match as Dos aim to triumph once more and grab a full three points for the first time this season. Tune in to support the team on MLSNEXTPro.com, and as always, #VAMOSDOS!
