Houston Dynamo vs Real Salt Lake player ratings

(image via Derek Boyd)

The Houston Dynamo beat Real Salt Lake 2-1 to stay in second place in the Western Conference. Let’s take a look at how everyone performed.

Starters

Jonathan Bond - 6.5

Bond made two routine saves and was solid when called upon, but a quick Salt Lake counterattack denied him another clean sheet. Not much he could do on the finish.

Lawrence Ennali - 7.5

Strong performance from Ennali. He was active on both sides of the ball and provided the assist on Houston’s opening goal with a good attacking contribution.

Lucas Halter - 7

Solid outing from Halter. Stayed composed, won his defensive battles and helped keep Salt Lake’s attack from creating too much.

Antonio Carlos - 7

A steady performance in the back line. Carlos was physical, disciplined and helped Houston deal with Salt Lake’s transition game.

Franco Negri - 7.5

Another strong performance from Negri. Defended with confidence, got forward when opportunities presented themselves and helped Houston maintain its shape.

Artur - 7

Another class performance from the captain. Artur was everywhere in midfield and helped Houston control the game, but one costly mistake allowed Salt Lake to launch the counterattack that produced their lone goal.

Hector Herrera - 6.5

A strong 80 minutes from the Mexican veteran. Herrera managed the midfield well, moved the ball efficiently and provided his usual composure before coming off.

Agustin Bouzat - 6.5

Put in another hardworking performance, helping Houston press and compete in midfield. Not his biggest attacking night, but he contributed to the overall effort.

Guilherme - 9

Once again, Houston’s most dangerous player. Guilherme scored a beautiful long-distance goal with his weak foot and then assisted Bogusz on the winner. The Brazilian designated player continues to deliver week after week.

Mateusz Bogusz - 8.5

A massive performance from Bogusz. He scored the winner with an absolute banger from distance, showing once again the quality he can bring from outside the box.

Aliyu Ibrahim - 6.5

Worked hard and provided an outlet for Houston’s attack. He stretched the defense with his pace but wasn’t able to find the final touch.

Substitutes

Diadie Samassekou - 6.5

Came in to help Houston close out the match and provided energy and defensive coverage in midfield.

Matthew Arana - 6

Added fresh legs late and helped Houston maintain its defensive shape.

Duncan McGuire - 5.5

Worked hard after coming on but had limited opportunities to impact the attack.

Nick Markanich and Duane Holmes - N/A

Limited minutes and little opportunity to influence the match.

Head Coach

Ben Olsen - 8

Olsen made some slight adjustments to the starting lineup with Felipe Andrade unavailable due to yellow-card accumulation and Agustín Resch getting a rest. With the team continuing to adjust to life without Jack McGlynn, Houston once again put together a strong defensive effort. Olsen gave his Designated Players the freedom to do what they do best and they certainly didn’t disappoint. Guilherme and Bogusz delivered the difference.