Khari Stephenson had to leave with an injury. Sam Cronin made a poor challenge and earned a straight red. Tim Ward hobbled off the field late in the game. But Geovanni and a determined defensive effort wouldn’t let San Jose head back home without three badly needed points in the playoff chase.
Geovanni was instrumental on both goals. Although he wasn’t deeply involved in San Jose’s offense for portions of the game, when he did get on the ball he made things happen. And that’s exactly why the Quakes brought him in.
Some of the problems in San Jose’s midfield remain. The Quakes still struggle to maintain possession and dictate the pace of the game. But with Stephenson and Geovanni their counter-attack – a critically important piece of their offensive game – suddenly is much more intimidating for opposing defenses.
San Jose’s defense continues to somehow hold on through various injuries, though the eventual returns of Ike Opara and Ramiro Corrales will be very welcome. Corrales in particular is needed to shore up a questionable right back situation, as Tim Ward was in part culpable for Houston’s lone goal.
With tonight’s win San Jose moves into the 7th playoff spot out of 8 total, and they aren’t far behind Colorado for the 6th spot. They will return home to face another team they trail in the standings – FC Dallas.