The Houston Dash continued their 2026 preseason in Dallas, facing Dallas Trinity FC in the first-ever I-45 Showdown. This is the first time Houston plays a USL club this preseason, and the last time since they played Carolina Ascent in 2025’s summer break.
Danny Colaprico fights for possesion of the ball (Credit: Houston Dash)
The match began and with it came a wave of intensity that few expected. Dallas brought their A-game and the Dash looked quite startled by that. Dallas was mostly the one in control throughout the first half, as Jane Campbell was called into action in the 20th minute or so to make an acrobatic triple save. Kate Fasse was not looking confident on the other side of the field, as her runs seemed a step off and her control of the ball could have been more effective in the final third. Halftime came and went, and with it a 0-0 score that did not accurately reflect the subtle dominance that was on display by Dallas. Houston had quality moments yes, but it felt like moments where you’d observe and comment “close, but no cigar” on most plays. It was until the 64th minute where Caroline Kelly snuck it past Jane Campbell with her front post effort, marking a moment Kelly will never forget, and one Campbell wishes she could.
The 64th minute goal ended up being the lone breakthrough, as the match ended 1-0 inf favor of the hosts.
The Dash face the University of Texas in a closed-door friendly to wrap up their preseason, following that match they open their season on the road against San Diego.