Going into Saturday’s game at the league-leading San Jose Earthquakes, a point for FC Dallas would probably have been an acceptable outcome. However, after relinquishing two second-half leads to Steven Lenhart goals, including a late equalizer in the 95th minute, FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman was left to wonder what could have been.
“To be up twice and to give up goals of that nature, it’s [expletive],” Hyndman fumed after the match. “The ball is up in the air, coming down, people are physically knocking you over. What are you going to do? We don’t have the size to match.”
OPTA Chalkboard: Dallas struggle against bigger Quakes side
With Vancouver managing just a scoreless draw against Seattle, FC Dallas were just seconds from moving back into a playoff spot and controlling their own destiny for the first time since late April. Having given up one lead, Dallas looked to be safely hanging onto a second lead earned through Matt Hedges' 88th-minute goal as the Quakes pumped hopeful balls into the box.
However, leaving Lenhart unmarked just one time was all it took to get punished.
“I think we put ourselves in a position to get the three points tonight,” Kevin Hartman told reporters after the match. “It’s a difficult place to come and play. We had the lead twice and there’s a reason they’re called 'The Goonies.' They never say die and, unfortunately, tonight was more of the same.”
Lenhart’s 95th-minute equalizer leaves FCD still needing help with three games remaining if they want to make the playoffs for a third year in a row.
“We’re [ticked],” Hyndman continued. “We’re very disappointed. The goals we’ve given up, you guys see it. It’s just knocking balls into the box. Continue knocking balls into the box, and if you don’t get to the first ball, you’ll get to the second one.”
For Hyndman, however, the formula for success is pretty simple as FC Dallas begin preparation for a road match at Chivas USA next weekend.
“Maybe we’ll get some good officiating and continue to score three goals,” he said.
