Late-game fireworks becoming custom at LSP
The players feel it, the coaches feel it and the fans most definitely feel it.
One game at a time, LIVESTRONG Sporting Park is developing a reputation for wild finishes and last-second goals. For the fourth time in Kansas City’s last seven home games, a goal in the game’s final few minutes defined the result as Sporting snuck out a 2-2 draw against the Galaxy.
“There is always a flair for the dramatic at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park,” midfielder Graham Zusi said. “This was no different.”
Down a goal with seconds remaining, Sporting pulled out a late draw in dramatic fashion via a Frankie Hejduk hand ball and the ensuing penalty kick by Omar Bravo. It was the third game at LSP that Kansas City has salvaged a point with a goal in the final seconds.
Seattle and Dallas, on the other hand, have managed to sneak away with two last-gasp victories from trips to Kansas City, which are also the only two games Sporting has lost at home this season.
Bunbury back in, Collin out against Houston
Teal Bunbury, who was expected to be absent from Monday’s game because of national team duty, will be available for selection against the Dynamo on Saturday after serving his red card suspension against the Galaxy.
Along with Landon Donovan, Bunbury returned to Kansas City for the Labor Day game, which allowed him to serve the suspension while Donovan appeared as a substitute. The young striker would have had to miss the Houston game as well had he traveled with the United States to Belgium.
Center back Aurelien Collin, however, will not be available against Houston after picking up a second half caution for a tackle on Donovan, resulting in an automatic suspension for yellow card accumulation. Collin has eight cautions this season in 17 appearances.