Taylor Kemp's first goal helps secure D.C. United's first win in Houston

In D.C. United’s first-ever win at BBVA Compass Stadium (1-11-1), defender Taylor Kemp recorded his first career goal. Kemp, a University of Maryland product, tallied first, followed by Fabián Espíndola’s classy chip and Eddie Johnson’s composed finish to give United the 3-1 win over the Houston Dynamo.

“I always like to get into the attack,” Kemp said. “To produce and help the team win, it always feels good.”

After a long weather delay, the Black-and-Red found its rhythm. With a great ball through the Dynamo defense, Espíndola found a cutting Chris Pontius. Houston ‘keeper Tyler Deric got there first, and Kemp was there for the rebound.

“It came out right to me,” Kemp said. “I thought about hitting it first time, but I thought it would be a little bit difficult. So, I took a touch, the goalie was kind of near post, so I thought I would bang it far post, and it ended up being a goal.”

Head Coach Ben Olsen tipped his cap to the second-year defender on his recent form.

“So nice to have a guy like [Taylor Kemp] get on the score sheet to kind of give him a little press a little bit of an ego boost because he’s been fantastic,” Olsen said.  “So, I’m glad his name’s going to be mentioned.”

Olsen also praised his team’s character; once again commenting on the Black-and-Red’s ability to stay focused after the delay and earn a crucial result. With playoffs two games away, results now build momentum for the post-season.

“We have good, experienced, hungry guys that understand what’s at stake right now,” he said. “We’re looking forward to going back home and get more points against Chicago.”

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