Apr 1, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Erick Torres (9) scores a goal on a penalty kick during the first half against the New York Red Bulls at BBVA Compass Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Reign Files: Week 1 Round Up for the Seattle Reign by Nathan Reynolds

The Dynamo gave their opponents a fierce, physical first half, scoring two goals and spurring two Minnesota injury substitutions, including the goalkeeper.

Minnesota United FC came back against the Houston Dynamo just as strong in the second half, picking up three yellow cards, but leaving the team and stunned home supporters with a tie.

Dynamo Head Coach Wilmer Cabrera spoke in his post game conference of a disallowed goal that could have won the game.

The disallowed score came in the 34th minute. Alberth Elis grabbed a pass by Eric Alexander and popped it into the lower left corner of the net. The fans erupted, but officials disallowed the goal, for offsides.

1) Find other solutions

Cabrera assured supporters the team has what it takes to overcome the obstacles Minnesota threw against them in the second half of the match. In the post game, he identified immediate areas for improvement.

Cabrera on improvement: “We need to get better in our duels. We need to get better in our 1v1 [defending]. We need to have a more solid defense. We can’t lie, we’re giving the ball away too much. We’re one of the teams that has given up a lot of goals. After Minnesota, it’s us.”

2) Take time to get it right

Just like Cabrera, Jalil Anibaba showed confidence in his post game interview that the Dynamo will find the answer and make a brilliant season.

Anibaba on the solution: “It’s the tale of two halves. In the first half we were solid. Second half, we weren’t good enough, unfortunately. We’re still early in the season. We’ll get it right.”

3) Maintain focus for the full 90

As did the other Dynamo players, Joe Willis and Mauro Manotas agreed that second-half focus should top their improvement lists as they prepare for the San Jose Earthquakes Saturday afternoon, April 22.

Manotas on Houston Dynamo preparation: “We’re winning in the first half and then we just relax. We need more will and attitude entering the second half.”

These preparations will pit the Dynamo, still unbeaten at home, against the 2-2-2 Earthquake and, likely, their 4-4-2 double-midfield-diamond formation. Driving balls through that midfield will be key in that match to carry the Dynamo attack forward.