Houston Dynamo lose their 2022 home finale 3-1

It started off well for the Houston Dynamo on Sunday afternoon at PNC Stadium but it did not end well. The 3-1 loss statistically speaking did not look good on paper or on the pitch. Despite earning their franchise tying 18th loss, the Dynamo were able to avoid the Western Conference cellar.

Playing the Los Angeles Galaxy for the third time on Decision Day in the last four years, Houston was looking to once again put a little damper on the L.A. season. In 2018, Houston came from behind in the final 30 minutes to beat the Galaxy and eliminate them from the postseason. In 2019, they did the same coming from behind again in the final 30 minutes and it cost the playoff bound Galaxy a home playoff match. 2022 was the charm though for the Galaxy as they came from behind with three goals to secure their playoff berth and earn a home playoff match.

Things didn't look like they were going to go well for L.A. as Houston came out fast and furious. In the eighth minute of play, Corey Baird ran onto a ball in space and delivered a perfectly timed service into the box. Sebastian Ferreira elevated above the defense and headed home his 13th goal of the season.

That was to be the end of the Dynamo highlights as L.A. began to exert their presence. In the 31st minute, unmarked midfielder Riqui Puig leveled the match and a minute later Chicharito gave the visitors the lead for good. In just 10 matches since signing with the Galaxy, Puig has three goals and two assists. Chicaharito's 18th goal turned out to be the game winner while Diego Jovelijic scored his 13th in the 69th minute to seal the win. The duo combined for 31 of L.A.'s 58 goals this season.

Los Angeles dominated the match in every statistical category out possessing Houston 67-37, outshooting them 21-6. shots on target 7-4 and corners 8-1. The domination allowed L.A. to capture a home playoff match against Nashville SC with date and time to be determined.