Houston Dynamo vs Vancouver Whitecaps staff picks
(image via Houston Dynamo FC)
The Houston Dynamo welcome the top team in MLS to Shell Energy Stadium tonight. We asked our staff for their predictions on the match against the Vancouver Whitecaps.
Cristian - 3-2 Dynamo win
(Record: 7-4)
The second half against RSL wasn’t the best, but if the Dynamo can have two halves like the first half was on Wednesday, they should be able to keep the 3 points at home. Ultimately it will boil down to how Ben Olsen plans this match and if the eleven on the field can execute.
Rudy - 3-2 Dynamo loss
(Record: 3-9)
Houston has been very well organized defensively in many of their recent matches, taking the second half against RSL out of the equation. Ben Olsen will have the best lineup in his rotation available against the Whitecaps. However, after studying this Vancouver team, they just have too many ways to punish opponents, which makes it difficult for me to predict a Houston win. But hopefully I just reverse-jinxed the outcome.
Joey - 3-1 Dynamo win
(Record: 4-4)
This will be the statement win to establish the Dynamo as a contending team in the Western Conference. Vancouver will have no answer for Guilherme and Jack McGlynn as they tear apart Vancouver’s defense.
Dustyn - 3-1 Dynamo loss
(Record: 3-9)
Vancouver are atop the Supporters’ Shield standings for a reason. Thomas Muller is back from an illness, giving them even more firepower. It will be tough for the Dynamo to keep up in this match but it will be a real measuring stick for Houston.
Manny - 1-0 Dynamo win
(Record 3-8)
After a loss midweek with a rotated lineup, now the Dynamo will be back at home and back to a full strength eleven. Houston has enough fire power to worry the Whitecaps. The main question, is it enough to overtake Vancouver? I believe it is.
Juan - 3-1 Dynamo loss
(Record 6-6)
Houston might have had one of their worst halves of the season against Real Salt Lake; now, they’ll have to pivot and face off against one of the best offensive teams in the league. If Thomas Müller, Brian White, and Sebastian Berhalter all feature, I don’t know if Houston can handle that amount of firepower.
Dynastats - 1-1 draw
(Record 7-5)
The Dynamo haven't drawn a game all year, but face a strong Vancouver team at home that won't make it easy to grab a win. I predict an even game that ends with both teams splitting points.
