The Houston Dynamo toiled to a Western Conference-worst 34 points in 2016. One year later, it looks as though the Dynamo of old have made a return to form.
A decade ago, former head coach Dominic Kinnear had the Dynamo flying high with back-to-back MLS Cup triumphs in 2006 and 2007. Their consistency continued as they made consecutive MLS Cup appearances in 2011 and 2012, but success has been harder to come by in recent years.
Failing to make the playoffs in each of the last three seasons, Houston are off to a fast start in 2017 as they currently sit third in the West. However, their record has been bolstered by their favorable schedule, posting a 4-0-1 record at home while losing both of their only two away fixtures.
Formation– 4-3-3
The Dynamo possess a potent attack as their front free lead the charge. Scoring the second-most goals in the Conference with 15 through seven games, the likes of Erick Torres, Alberth Elis, Andrew Wenger and Mauro Manotas could prove to be a handful on the night.
Houston also boast an experienced defensive unit, as USMNT veteran DaMarcus Beasley mans the left back position, while three-time MLS Cup winner Leonardo has joined the side this season.
Don’t expect Wilmer Cabrera’s side to come to BMO Field looking to own the possession battle, but the Dynamo can still inflict damage on the counter.
Key Player – Erick Torres
The last few years have been a bit of a rollercoaster for Torres, but El Cubo has been back to his goal-scoring ways of late.
The former Guadalajara striker got his start in MLS back in 2013 with Chivas USA, bagging an impressive 22 goals over 44 matches. His move to Houston in 2015 got off to a slow start as Torres struggled to find his form amidst loan stints back to his native Mexico, but the Designated Player has been on fire in 2017.
Torres currently leads all of MLS with seven goals through seven games played, pacing the Houston’s attack. Torres recorded his first career hat-trick against the New York Red Bulls during their 4-1 home win on April 1, making him just the second ever Mexican player to score a hat-trick in league history.
Coach’s Quotebook
Greg Vanney: “They’ve played some aggressive soccer at times where they really try to press and create transition opportunities, and they’ve got some pace on the wings. They played a diamond to start their last game, so it depends on who’s healthy and available.”
Toronto FC host the Houston Dynamo on Friday, April 28 at 7:30 PM. Get your tickets at torontofc.ca/tickets.
