September 28, 2013 marked the debut of the newly formed Texas Premier Soccer League and the Houston Dutch Lions FC had the honor of participating in the league’s first match. The Lions traveled to the north side of Houston to take on the Houston Leones FC as both clubs kicked off the 2013-14 season. After weeks of practice and a handful of friendly games the boys in orange were in good form and were able to secure the 2-0 win.
The HDL FC looked to play to their strengths and started the match in a 4:3:3 formation. Head Coach Marco Pruis was looking to his team to utilize strong ball control and a smart passing game to try and control the match. After 10 minutes it was apparent that the HDL FC would pace the game and get more chances. Executing well on their game plan the Lions forwards and midfielders used good positioning play and created a number of possibilities were they were able to get into position to take shots. Unfortunately for the Lions they were unable to take advantage early on. They took a number of shots, but time after the time they either were off target or the goalie of the Houston Leones was able to make several excellent saves to keep his team in the match. In the 27th minute, the Lions were finally able to break through. The 1-0 lead was finally achieved after good combination play through the midfield. Jose Alvarez gave an excellent through ball towards forward Jesus “Chuy” Vidal who made quick work to finish the ball and score the Lions first goal of the game, and also the first goal made in the Texas Premier Soccer League. Following the Lions goal, the remainder of the first half played out in essentially the same fashion as the early parts of the match. The Leones wanted to, and were able to, create some small chances but the Lions dominated in possession. Even with a big edge in possession and shots they didn’t have any luck finishing on goal.
In the 2nd half the team continued where they left off the first. The Lions continued to create lots of chances but were unable to double up on their lead. With a bit more determination and vision for their teammates the Lions could have had several more tallies on the board. With the score still 1-0 the Dutch Lions kept the Leones hopes alive as the hosts tried to secure points in their home opener. The Lions received a bit of a wake up call in the 55th minute when the Leones forward had a good run and his shot from distance ended up rattling the crossbar. In the 60th minute Roberto Velazquez, who is a true homegrown player being part of the organization from the beginning, entered the field as a substitution for Douglas Membreno. Velazquez showed the fans that he has lots of potential at only 17 years old. He was strong in his duels and create space for the midfielders when it was needed. Cesar Arellano entered the field as well and he also brought a lot of energy in the game. It was clear that the intention of the Houston Dutch Lions FC team was to end this game as soon as possible with another goal and secure three points.
In the 80th minute the 2-0 lead was finally there. After a good dribble from Erick Suarez, the ball landed in front of Roberto Velazquez, who was very eager to drive home the Lions second goal and he did. In the last 10 minutes of the game the Lions could have scored more, but were once again unable to add another goal. Following the storyline of the day for the Lions, the continued to create lots of chances but the chances were unable to find the back of the net. Regardless, Houston Dutch Lions FC keeper Israel Becerra was able to keep a clean sheet and the club was able to secure a win in their first Texas Premier Soccer League game.
Next week the team will travel to Maya Park to take on NPSL club Regals SCA. This looks to be a tough game against an experienced, high level club. Coach Pruis knows his team will need to get the best out of each other and bring a lot of energy to the match. The Lions will also be looking to finish a higher percentage of chances in order to bring home another victory. Kickoff for the match against the Regals is set for 5 pm.
