Owen Gene deserves credit for being the guy behind the guy.

The Loons’ 23-year-old French midfielder created the scoring chance on Anthony Markanich’s goal that was the difference in a 1-0 win over FC Dallas on Wednesday at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.

MNUFC (5-2-2, 17 points) has won four straight MLS games for the second time in club history, while Dallas (3-2-4, 13 points) had its five-match unbeaten run snapped.

In the first half, Gene’s dribble down the left flank and pass between Dallas midfielder Herman Johannson’s legs went to Markanich, who’s initial shot was denied but then scored on his own rebound in the 32nd minute. That kept Gene from having an official assist.

Gene has stepped up in midfield once Wil Trapp had to miss the L.A. Galaxy match due to illness on April 4. Gene has started the last five games, including the U.S. Open Cup win over Sacramento last Tuesday.

Markanich, who burst on the scene with nine goals in 31 games in 2025, now has two in nine matches this season.

The Loons defense stifled Dallas striker Petar Musa, who came into the game leading MLS with nine goals this season. The 28-year-old Croatian managed only two blocked shots in the first half and ended up with 0.15 expected goals before subbing out in the 69th minute.