Houston Dynamo vs Portland Timbers staff picks

(image via Aldo Canale)

Matchday 3 will be another chance for points at Shell Energy Stadium. We asked our staff for their predictions on tonight’s match between the Houston Dynamo and Portland Timbers.

Cristian - 3-0 Dynamo win
(Record: 1-1)

The Dynamo continue to find the perfect rhythm as they get closer to their final form, while continuing to add pieces to make their new formation work better. Portland hasn’t impressed yet, and I don't believe this will be the game where they turn things around. 

Rudy - 2-1 Dynamo win
(Record: 1-1)

Houston will have to make some big lineup changes after the red cards to Agustin Bouzat and Antonio Carlos. I expect Ben Olsen to shuffle things around instead of making straight replacements as the team continues building chemistry. Portland will likely play a bit more conservatively to try and stop their two-game skid and could find a goal, but Jonathan Bond might still come up with a couple big saves late to help Houston close it out.

Joey - 2-1 Dynamo win
(Record: 1-0)

Portland have yet to impress so far this season in MLS and now might be without Cole Bassett and Antony. Expect the Dynamo to dominate the play most of the game. It will just be about whether the Dynamo can finish their chances or not.

Dustyn - 1-1 draw
(Record: 1-1)

Portland has struggled defensively, so the Dynamo should be able to score. But Houston is without two key starters and still trying to figure things out. This has the makings of a run-of-the-mill draw.

Manny - 2-2 draw
(Record 2-0)

The Dynamo had time to rest and reset from their loss against LAFC. Portland comes in with a worse start to the season and have been leaking goals. The main concern with the Dynamo is who will replace the starters out due to red cards.

Juan - 1-0 Dynamo win
(Record 2-0)

Houston are well rested and will surely be eager to put their loss to LAFC behind them. Portland have struggled in their last two matches of the season, losing by a score of 4-1 against Vancouver in their most recent league game. Except the Dynamo to come out strong defensively and look for the three points. 

Dynastats - 2-0 Dynamo win
(Record 2-0)

Portland have historically struggled in Houston, and this Dynamo team will be fully energized off their bye week. The Dynamo will dominate the ball, win this game by multiple goals, and keep a clean sheet.