Unfortunately, the questionable calls are what are going to be remembered from this match. Corey Ashe won Houston a penalty as he went down very gingerly in the box midway through the second half. It was a terrible call and I was certain that Ashe was going to be booked for embellishment. Not the case; Dwayne DeRosario netted his brace from the the penalty spot giving his side a 2-0 lead. It wasn't long before the Texan side netted their third goal and secured the victory before allowing Municipal a loan consolation goal in the closing minutes of the game. Its unfortunate that the second half was pocked with spotty officiating, choppy play and heightened tempers (several of the players were involved in a short scuffle after DeRosario's penalty). All of these detracted from the game which at times was dominated by a fast paced and exciting style of play.
Questionable calls aside, Houston definitely deserved this win. I don't hold it against Ashe for winning his side a penalty, in fact, he looked just as surprised as the Municipal defenders at the call. All in all Ashe had a great night, he looked very dangerous down the left flank as much of Houston's attack came through him. DeRosario was also solid, he was the driving force behind Houston's midfield throughout the game. Even when Municipal looked dangerous, Houston was always able to regain control.
Here is how the semifinals will shape up.
Semifinal 1: DC United (USA) vs Pachuca CF (Mexico)
Semifinal 2: Houston Dynamo (USA) vs Deportivo Saprissa (Costa Rica)/Atlante FC (Mexico)
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