Player Ratings: Houston Dynamo vs. the Vancouver Whitecaps

The Houston Dynamo did not follow up their 4-0 season open win against Atlanta United FC in style as they were defeated at home by the Vancouver Whitecaps 1-2. Although the Dynamo mounted chance after chance to equalize late in the game, the defensive minded Caps kept the door closed.

The Top Performers:

Alberth Elis, Man of the Match, (8.2) – Once again Alberth Elis was the Man of the Match for the Dynamo and deservedly so. Elis was the most active offensive player for Houston as he was able to create plenty of chances, make dangerous runs, pressure defenders, draw fouls, and most importantly, find the back of the net.

Darwin Cerén (7.2) – Cerén filled in at defensive midfielder for the injured Juan David Cabezas, as he did last week, and he again filled in ably. Cerén was adept at tackling in the midfield and also impressed with his passing both close and long ranged as he absolutely was one of the top performers against the Whitecaps.

DaMarcus Beasley (7) – Beasley had a decent performance, but I think a player like Andrew Wenger put in an arguably better effort overall. That being said, Beasley was very good at getting up the field and creating some nice combinations with Houston’s attacking players.

Head Coach Wilmer Cabrera (6.1) – Cabrera had a good game plan and in a duel Carl Robinson, Robinson may have executed just a bit better thanks to the order the goals were scored. While the score was tied, Houston was very good at getting in dangerous positions and having a go at goal, but unfortunately couldn’t find the back of the net first. Poor defensive plays by the Dynamo saw Kei Kamara draw and finish off a penalty and Brek Shea get loose because Kevin Garcia was too high up the pitch. After these we saw Robinson bring most of his players back to defend. Even though the Dynamo had the lion’s share of possession and chances, they just couldn’t break down the Caps who parked the bus. That’s been a problem for Wilmer Cabrera and an area that hopefully gets addressed soon.

The Rest of the Starters:

GK: Chris Seitz (6)

DEF: Philippe Senderos (5.9)

DEF: Leonardo (5.9)

DEF: Adolfo Machado (6.6)

MID: Tomás Martínez (6.4)

MID: Eric Alexander (5.9)

FW: Andrew Wenger (6.9)

FW: Mauro Manotas (5.9)

The Subs:

DEF: Kevin Garcia (4.8)

FW: Romell Quioto (5.9)

FW: Arturo Álvarez (5.9)