The Houston Dynamo played more consistently against Minnesota United last Saturday night. Their next opponent, Zlatan’s L.A. Galaxy, was less composed in their last match. Ibrahimovic is going to fight for a victory. Who will for Houston?
The Houston Dynamo Need a Conductor
Las Naranjas controlled the match at Minneapolis. The Loons played a low line expecting the Dynamo speed on the flanks. Houston relied on long balls in the first half.
The Dynamo played a 2-4-3-1 formation in the second 45 minutes. Romell Quioto was the pipeline to Houston’s attacking third aided by DaMarcus Beasley. The formation produced 19 shots but five on goal.
Between the 45th and 70th minute, the Dynamo played soccer unworthy not to be above the red line. A United right cross and poor defending by Leonardo led to a goal for Minnesota. Houston lost the drive to mount a comeback in the last 20 minutes.
The problem at center back could be fixed by the return of Swiss International Philippe Senderos. Attacking midfielder Tomas Martinez can’t disappear as the conductor of the Orange Crush.
Houston came back from 1-0 to draw 2-2 at San Jose on April 14th. Martinez placed himself at the attacking half of the full circle drifting in the offensive end against the Quakes. At Minnesota, he was on the right side looking for a pass.
Martinez can be ineffective in games being a Designated Player. Being a DP isn’t a license to be a leader. The most important question this season is which player can galvanize the Dynamo into the playoffs.
The fans at BBVA Compass Stadium will provide emotional support versus the Galaxy. Zlatan’s ego matches the average Dynamo fan. David Beckham’s first unwelcomed MLS visit was in Texas.
L.A. conceded two or more goals in eight games. Their attack is the reason the Galaxy are in fifth place. The Southern California squad is gilded but will Houston know statistically they’re better?
Houston scored five more goals in two fewer games than L.A. and conceded two fewer goals. It’s naive to think the large crowd will all be rooting for the Dynamo. The Orange Crush fan’s Texas-size egos will need to be injected into the Houston players just in case the Galaxy’s gilded gold shines.
