Houston Dynamo 3, Minnesota United FC 0 | 2018 MLS Match Recap

Emily Olsen

The Houston Dynamo stopped Minnesota United's momentum in its tracks Saturday on the way to a 3-0 win at home.

Dynamo defender Philippe Senderos could not stop scoring and recorded a brace to help move Houston up the table. Senderos capitalized on the Loons tired legs on two separate set-piece goals. The 6-foot-3-inch defender has now scored three goals in the last two matches.

Last week, Minnesota took down defending MLS champion Toronto FC, who are desperate to find a rhythm this season. The Loons scored four in that match, but could not find the back of the net against the Dynamo. Minnesota took just five shots against Houston.

Minnesota goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth recorded six saves, but was no match for Houston's 22 shots. In stoppage time, Alberth Elis converted his sixth shot to give Houston an insurance goal.

Goals

36' – HOU – Philippe Senderos | WATCH
52' – HOU – Philippe Senderos | WATCH
90'+2 – HOU – Alberth Elis | WATCH

Three Things

THE BIG PICTURE: Houston played well taking nine shots on target, but Minnesota's offense did not help the Loons' cause. Despite a few first half shots and an early run by Christian Ramirez, Minnesota did not dominate when they had a chance in the final third.
MOMENT OF THE MATCH: In the 52nd minute, Senderos broke free from a muddle of players to an open spot in front of Minnesota's goal. Completely unmarked, Senderos scored his second goal of the night.
MAN OF THE MATCH: The best offense is a good defense. Senderos' brace makes him the man of the match in Houston.
GOOOOOOOAAAALLLLLLLLL DYNAMOOOOOO!!!!!

THE MAN CAN'T STOP! @PhilSend4 GETS HIS SECOND! 2-0!!! #HOUvMIN pic.twitter.com/yrOgfO98tc
— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) July 8, 2018