Matchday Honors

MLS NEXT Pro Team of Matchday 23: Earthquakes II

Quakes II

In an electrifying Matchday 23 matchup, Earthquakes II orchestrated a remarkable comeback to secure a 4-3 triumph against Houston Dynamo 2 at PayPal Park.

The match was a roller-coaster of emotions, packed with twists and thrilling goals that ultimately earned Earthquakes II the honor of Team of Matchday 23.

Quakes II forward Ousseni Bouda kick-started the action with a brilliant curling shot to give his side the early lead in the 12th minute.

However, Houston Dynamo 2 turned the tide soon after, scoring three consecutive goals to go into halftime with a two-goal lead, leaving Earthquakes II with an uphill battle.

The second half marked a turning point for Earthquakes II, as their comeback began to take shape in the 53rd minute. Houston Dynamo 2 defender Talen Maples, who scored twice in the first half, inadvertently deflected a cross that resulted in an own goal, giving Earthquakes II an opportunity to get back into the game.

With momentum now on their side, Earthquakes II continued their attack and tied the game in the 60th minute after Casey Walls knocked in a goal off a deflected free kick shot attempt.

In the later stages of the game, Earthquakes II, now searching for a game wining goal, continued their attack.

Quakes II found their fourth goal in the 83rd minute when Aaron Edwards connected with Eduardo Blancas inside the Dynamo 2 box. After receiving the pass, Blancas swiftly shifted to his inside foot and delivered a powerful shot, granting Quakes II a 4-3 lead and sealing their improbable comeback victory.

With the win, Earthquakes II leapfrogged Dynamo 2 to climb to fifth place in the Western Conference.

Earthquakes II will now shift their attention to their Matchday 24 matchup when they travel to face off against St Louis CITY2 on August 27 at CITYPARK. 

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