In a tense encounter marked by missing key players on both sides, FC Dallas managed to secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against the New England Revolution on Saturday night, thanks to Paul Arriola’s dramatic late penalty.
Arriola's goal, his third of the season, came in the fifth minute of stoppage time, marking FC Dallas' first shot on target of the night. The penalty was awarded after referee Pierre-Luc Lauzierre determined that New England's Henry Kessler had fouled Tarik Scott inside the box. Arriola confidently converted the spot-kick, sending it into the top right corner and ensuring Dallas left with a valuable point.
Dallas, missing top scorers Petar Musa (suspension) and Jesus Ferreira (thigh injury), struggled to create chances throughout the match. Their offensive woes were mirrored by New England, who were without their own attacking stars, Carles Gil (lower leg injury) and Giacomo Vrioni (calf injury). This led to a game with few clear opportunities.
The Revolution took the lead in the 65th minute in a somewhat fortunate manner. A low cross from Peyton Miller aimed towards Bobby Wood was inadvertently turned into the net by Dallas defender Nkosi Tafari. Tafari's touch, while trying to clear the ball, wrong-footed Dallas goalkeeper Maarten Paes and gifted New England the opening goal. Initially, it appeared Wood had scored his first goal since June 2023, but it was later credited as an own goal by Tafari.
Despite going behind, Dallas showed resilience. The draw earned them only their fourth point away from home this season, the lowest tally in Major League Soccer. This result might also be significant for goalkeeper Maarten Paes, who could have played his last match for Dallas, with reports linking him to a move to Serie A club Empoli.
For New England, the draw ended a three-match losing streak but extended their winless run to four games. With a solitary shot on target and numerous attacking players unavailable, the Revolution struggled to break down Dallas’ defense.
As the season progresses, both teams will hope for the return of their key players to bolster their offensive capabilities. Dallas, currently with 30 points, will look to build on this momentum, while New England, with 23 points, will aim to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming fixtures.
