The word Dynamo means “a machine for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy.” This name honors Houston’s oil and natural gas industries. The squad, like their namesake, has a lively presence on the field,
The Dynamo energy is frantic. The fans worry about Alberth Elis’ decision making abilities when he has a spark. Tomas Martinez’s performance despite being in the MLS XI this week lacked an attacking midfielder’s flair and command.
Against the San Jose Earthquakes last Saturday, the Dynamo succeeded in limiting the Quakes attack. Houston’s open play opportunities were plentiful and at times erratic. Adolfo Machado pushed high into the offense to let Elis play more central to goal.
Houston attacks the flanks out of necessity not by choice. The official formation appears to be a 4-3-3. But the Dynamo morphs into a 4-2-3-1 for the fullbacks to integrated into the offense.
Machado had double duty playing the right fullback covering the entire right side of Avaya Stadium. DaMarcus Beasley resumed the responsibilities as the attacking defender. Midfielders Darwin Ceren and Andrew Winger were designated to defend for Elis, Machado, and Beasley to be more attacking.
Las Naranjas right fullback Machado occupied most of San Jose’s Magnus Eriksson’s time. Eriksson moved to the middle of the field in the second half. Houston’s stretched defense once again dropped points. A Jahmir Hyka 85th minute goal wasted a dominated Dynamo night.
Disconnected Houston Dynamo Faces Toronto FC
Toronto is more concerned with CONCACAF glory. The Reds reserve squad will likely play a basic 4-4-2 to slow down the Dynamo’s flank play. TFC will not be afraid of the Texas heat.
The Dynamo are reactive. They entertain when opponents make mistakes offensively. Houston defends to save their lives. Toronto won’t play the stars but the stand-ins will play their parts.
The South Texas squad hasn’t won since March 3rd. They squandered points versus Vancouver and D.C. United by losing leads. New England was the Dynamo’s only collapse.
Respect needs to be earned as well. A victory for the Dynamo against Toronto means they can beat a team they should. To lose at home versus the MLS defending champions’ second strings can question the cohesion and overall talent of Houston’s hard chargers.
