FC Dallas benefit from late gaffe, edge Sporting KC

Updated: May 17, 2023, 05:14 am

Ryan Hollingshead scored the go-ahead goal off a Sporting Kansas City gaffe in the 86th minute, lifting visiting FC Dallas to a 3-2 win on Saturday afternoon in Kansas City, Kan.

After Johnny Russell's second goal of the match for Sporting (6-4-2, 20 points) leveled the game at 2 in the 83rd minute, Hollingshead put home a rebound of a Tim Melia kick-save off a Michael Barrios shot. It was all made possible after Kansas City veteran Graham Zusi offered a lazy back-pass attempt to Melia near the box, which was taken by Barrios.

Franco Jara recorded two goals for FC Dallas (5-2-4, 19 points), who finished the game with 10 men after Bryan Acosta picked up a second yellow card late.

After missing a golden opportunity early in the first half, Jara came through in the 42nd minute. Off a strong cross into traffic from John Nelson, Jara converted a splendid diving header past Melia.

Three minutes into the second half, Jara used his foot this time to give FC Dallas a 2-0 lead. Finding a way to get the ball into the net amid traffic within the box, the Argentine designated player scored for the fourth time in three matches. All five of his MLS goals have come over his last five contests.

However, Russell pulled one back for Kansas City with a strong effort in the 53rd minute. Russell has posted three goals over his last two matches.

Each club had a quality chance early on. Russell had a left-footed bender from the top corner of the box that was saved by FC Dallas keeper Jimmy Maurer. Three minutes later, Fafa Picault sent a grounder into the sprawled gut of Melia. Kansas City's Gerso hit the post with his attempt in the 11th minute.

Minutes later, Jara's point-blank header was caught by Melia. However, Jara would not be denied right before the half.