Match Day Recap: Houston Dynamo vs Columbus Crew

The Dynamo's midweek matchup against the Columbus Crew got out of the gates to a slow pace as the two clubs tried to feel each other out and exploit holes in the opposing team's defense. The Houston Dynamo's player sheet had a mysterious omission in Jermaine Taylor which prompted trade rumors before the match kicked off.

The Dynamo deployed their 4-3-3 again, but found trouble creating space in the final third. While the Dynamo controlled most of the possession early in the match around the midfield, they had a difficult time breaking down a disciplined Crew defensive line. The most dangerous moment of the first half came against the Dynamo as Tally Hall made a huge reaction save following a Columbus Crew corner kick (say that 5 times fast). As the half went on, the momentum shifted towards the Crew with former Dynamo player Dominic Oduro, Frederico Higuaín, and Jairo Arrieta leading the way. The Dynamo weren't without chances on goal, but both teams would head to the locker rooms drawn at zero.

The Dynamo started the second half strong as Corey Ashe was brought down by Tony Tchani in a dangerous position. Brad Davis swung in a good ball that found the back of Will Bruin's head which found its way into the back of the net putting the home side up. As the game wore on, the Dynamo saw momentum shift in their favor as the Crew's back line looked less organized following the goal.

The Crew did change things with a few subs and made some pushes for an equalizer but they simply couldn't get past Hall. Adam Bedell finally did beat Tally Hall, but he couldn't beat the post. The Dynamo would end up putting this one away 1-0 which tied them at the top of the Eastern Conference with 14 points.

The Dynamo did well to both earn 3 points at home and save the legs of regular starters Brad Davis, Will Bruin, and Oscar Boniek Garcia by limiting their minutes. Will Bruin's goal was his 3^rd consecutive match that he's scored in and Tally Hall put in a great effort to see the home side truly earn the shut out. The Dynamo next face Real Salt Lake at BBVA Compass Stadium on Sunday May 11^th.

Houston Dynamo:

Hall; Sarkodie, Horst, Cochran, Ashe; Carrasco, Davis (Creavalle 61'), Barnes; Garcia (Cummings 85'), Bruin (Sherrod 74'), Driver.

Columbus Crew:

Clark; Williams (Bedell 77'), Gonzalez, Parkhurst, Francis; Oduro (Meram 69'), Viana (Paladini 65'), Tchani, Anor; Higuain, Arrieta

Scoring Summary:

Will Bruin - 50^th minute, assisted by Brad Davis.