The Houston Dynamo kicked off 2021 in winning style, securing a 2-1 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes on the opening day of the MLS regular season at BBVA Stadium.
The Dynamo got into a rhythm early on in the match, picking up several opportunities to score. The hosts thought they had the game's opening goal in the 11th minute, when a strike from Fafa Picault was eventually ruled offside. Eventually, though, their attacking endeavor paid off.
Homegrown midfielder Memo Rodriguez scored the team's opening goal of the season in the 39th minute, giving his side the advantage heading into the break. New signing Joe Corona was near the halfway line when he sent the ball forward, eventually finding Rodriguez. From there, Rodriguez made his way to the center of the penalty area before scoring with his right foot.
The hosts picked up from where they left off in the second half, and in the 56th minute doubled their advantage through Maxi Urruti. Forward Tyler Pasher won the ball on the left side of the field and made a run into the box before sending the ball across the area where Urruti was given time and space to score from close range.
Just as it seemed the Dynamo were in control, the Earthquakes looked to make things dramatic in the final stretch of the match. The visitors got on the board with a stunning goal from substitute Paul Marie in the 74th minute. After receiving a pass from Shea Salinas, Marie hit a spectacular curling shot from outside the box and sent it into the back of the net.
Both sides had their chances as the game inched closer to its end, and no one was closer than the Earthquakes' usually ultra-reliable Chris Wondolowski. In the 84th minute, the forward had a clear sight of goal from close range, but somehow sent the ball wide of the target to allow the Dynamo to hold on for a strong start to the season.
Goals
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: Despite a late surge from the Earthquakes, the Dynamo were in charge for most of the match. The Dynamo attack really stood out, picking up 17 shots during the match.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: The Earthquakes may have lost, but Paul Marie scored an AT&T Goal of the Week contender in the 74th minute.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: Memo Rodriguez started his season on a high, scoring his side's first goal. He was also an active presence throughout in attack as the Dynamo spent much of the game on the front foot.
Next Up
- HOU: Saturday, April 24 at Portland Timbers | 10:30 pm ET | MLS LIVE on ESPN+ | 2021 MLS regular season
- SJ: Saturday, April 24 vs. FC Dallas | 3:30 pm ET | Univision, TUDN, Twitter | 2021 MLS regular season
