The best season in Dallas history, one that saw two trophies find homes in Frisco, will always have a big question mark at the end of it. What if Mauro Diaz had not torn his Achilles tendon in the 89th minute of the season's 33rd match against Seattle? The Best XI midfielder missed the playoffs that saw those same Sounders defeat Dallas in the conference semifinals.
That question mark does not take away from a double-winning season with the Supporters' Shield and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup ending up in the hands of the club. It was Oscar Pareja's finest season with the club, leading his team to a 24-9-12 mark in all competitions. Diaz's 13 assists in league play stand out alongside 9 goals each from Michael Barrios and Maxi Urruti. Chris Seitz conceded 29 goals in 28 appearances in regular season play.
Pareja's commitment to youth was evident with the group as well. 22-year old Walker Zimmerman, 20-year old Kellyn Acosta, and 20-year old Carlos Gruezo all played more than 2,000 minutes in the regular season.
Contributions came from all directions with this group. In one of their most impressive wins, they came from behind in extra time in the Open Cup semifinal on the road against the LA Galaxy. After falling behind in the 101st minute, Matt Hedges equalized in the 116th minute followed by a stoppage time winner from Victor Ulloa.
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