Ponce, Ennali Each Score First MLS Goal, Dynamo Beat LAFC 2-0
Enner Valencia's penalty and Sebastian Ferreira's 87th-minute goal give Dynamo their first win of the year.
Houston Dynamo FC claimed their first Major League Soccer win of the season on Saturday night, defeating the visiting LAFC 2-0 at PNC Stadium. Darwin Quintero provided the assist on both goals, including a penalty kick converted by Enner Valencia to put Houston ahead in the 32nd minute.
LAFC had a chance to level the match late in the second half, but Carlos Vela's penalty attempt was saved by Houston goalkeeper Steve Clark. Sebastian Ferreira sealed the Dynamo's victory by scoring in the 87th minute to secure the three points.
Houston Dynamo End Skid
Houston had lost their first two matches of the season and were looking to avoid an 0-3 start for the first time since 2015. They were able to do just that by putting together a solid performance, particularly in the second half.
The win is also the first for new Dynamo head coach Ben Olsen, who took over the team following the departure of Paulo Nagamura in December.
LAFC Lose Away Opener
LAFC came into the match with a 1-0-1 record, including a win over Club Leon in the Concacaf Champions League. However, they were unable to get anything going offensively against the Dynamo's defense.
The loss is LAFC's first of the MLS season. They will look to rebound when they host the San Jose Earthquakes next Saturday.
Goalscorers
- Enner Valencia (HOU) - 32' (penalty)
- Sebastian Ferreira (HOU) - 87'
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