Houston Dash at NJ/NY Gotham FC staff picks

(image via Derek Boyd)

The Houston Dash face a crucial test on the road this afternoon with a chance to get right back into the thick of the playoff race. We asked our staff for their predictions on the match against Gotham.

Rudy - 2-1 Dash loss
(Record: 5-9)

Houston played a tough match against a very similar opponent last week, where super-sub Sophie Schmidt scored another late goal since the season restart—this time securing the victory for the Dash. But against Gotham, coach Juan Carlos Amorós knows many of Houston’s players well and will be looking to contain them.

Dustyn - 2-0 Dash loss
(Record: 6-8)

Three points in this match would pull the Dash within 2 points of Gotham, who sit in the 8th and final playoff spot going into today. That being said, Gotham is just more talented and should rise to the occasion at home.

Manny - 1-0 Dash win
(Record: 6-8)

The Dash have built strong momentum at a crucial point in the season—but can they keep it going? I believe they can. Gotham is a quality side, but far from flawless. They like to play out from the back, which leaves them vulnerable to pressure and turnovers. For Houston, an early goal could set the tone and give them the platform to defend their way to victory.

Joey - 2-2 draw
(Record: 6-7)

The Dash desperately need three points to keep their playoff hopes alive. Unfortunately, I just don’t see it against a strong Gotham team that are looking to cement themselves in the playoffs once again this year.

Diego - 1-1 draw
(Record: 5-7)

New York and Houston have already shared one of the season’s poorest performances, but this time feels different. The Dash enter with momentum on their side, and the boost from recent arrivals could be exactly what they need to leave the city that never sleeps with valuable points.