By Tyler Vaughn,

OKC Energy FC U23s took down Houston FC 3-2 on Saturday afternoon thanks to an own goal and brilliant strikes from Louis Bennett and Josh Garcia.

The Greens jumped ahead early, as they’ve done several times in recent matches, thanks to an own goal from Houston FC’s Adrian Vela. Llewellyn Evans got in behind the Houston defense and played a ball across the six to a waiting Dante Brigida, before it was bundled into the back of the net by the defender.

OKC doubled the lead in the 25th minute when Vlad Jandric found Bennett on the left wing. Bennett took a touch into the box and unleashed a left-footed drive from the corner of the 18 that left Houston goalkeeper Connor Talbot with no chance.

Houston FC didn’t create many chances in the first half, but they got back into the match via a Bennett own goal – not that Bennett can be blamed. Aldo Tarantini’s cross smacked off Bennett’s head and floated into the goal, leaving Nicolas Mertzokat stranded.

OKC Energy FC U23s regained their two-goal lead in the 49th minute through a Garcia free kick. The captain stepped up and smashed a shot from the left corner of the box, over the wall and past Talbot.

Houston made things interesting late on when Erik Sanchez got on the end of a cross and was able to direct his diving header past Mertzokat.

The Greens held on for the remainder of the match to see out the three points and keep the playoff dream alive.

The final league match for the U23s is tomorrow, July 15 at 4:00 p.m. at Oklahoma City University. As always, admission is $5 or free for Energy FC Season Seat Members.