Dynamo Theory - Match Day 11: Real Salt Lake vs. Houston Dynamo
You may all go to hell and I will support the Dynamo.
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2016-05-18T11:30:03-05:00
http://www.dynamotheory.com/rss/stream/11439961
2016-05-18T11:30:03-05:00
2016-05-18T11:30:03-05:00
Film Session: Value of the cross shown in chance
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<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>A semi-chance for the Dynamo early on in their game against Real Salt Lake showed what can happen when they put the ball in the box.</p> <p>Plenty of positives for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/">Houston Dynamo</a> to take from their victory against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/">Real Salt Lake</a> on Sunday. The team found some attacking success, and with two shutouts in their last two home matches, the defense appears to have found itself recently. Can they do it in Chicago this weekend, and in Vancouver the next? We'll see.</p>
<p>In the meantime, we examine a semi-chance the Dynamo had against RSL that was emblematic of how they played on offense.</p>
<p><b>The play starts </b>with <span>Sheanon Williams</span> ready to complete a simple throw-in:</p>
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<p>Williams—the designated long throw-taker—is pushed up from right back, although it appears to he doesn't have the intention of sending it directly into the box. Alex (14, circled) will be his target.</p>
<p>As indicated by the yellow arrow, <span>Cristian Maidana</span> is pointing toward the box, presumably trying to tell Williams that he wants the throw to go towards the goal. The ball will eventually go in the box, but not yet.</p>
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Alex controls it and immediately sees Williams make a run down the right wing. <span>Joao Plata</span> (directly in front of Alex) thinks he is defending the pass back to the thrower, but really he is just standing there making sure adidas doesn't get the ball.</p>
<p>There's plenty of space for Williams to run into down that wing. That often happens on Andrew Wenger's side of the field, because the winger likes to take up positions more centrally when attacking, as seen here. He often frees up gaps for full-backs when he pinches in, which is why Williams is a better fit at right back than <span>Jalil Anibaba</span>, a player who likes to stay at home.</p>
<p><span>Leonel Miranda</span> is favored by Owen Coyle as a substitute because he opens up the game late on by playing closer to the touchline.</p>
<p>Alex and Williams will look to take advantage of the available space.</p>
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<p>The Brazilian midfielder makes the pass to Williams. Maidana opens his legs and lets the ball meg him. He either has eyes in the back of his head or Williams yelled "leave!" Either one.</p>
<p>There are multiple Real Salt Lake players positioned outside the box, defending the central areas more than the cross. By the end of the game, they would learn to defend the cross.</p>
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Williams pushes the ball onto his right foot and sets up to put the ball in the box. <span>Ricardo Clark</span> realizes that, and darts into the box. <span>Kyle Beckerman</span> is on his horse as well, chasing Clark to try and make sure the cross from Williams doesn't find his man.</p>
<p>The former Union right back doesn't have any significant pressure from RSL, so he has his choice of whether to put it in the air or on the ground. He chooses the latter.</p>
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The cross gets to <span>Giles Barnes</span>, who struggles to deal with the pace of the ball. He will get a slight touch on it, but it will get past him and get to Beckerman. The US-international will have to do something about it.</p>
<p>After seeing the cross go past him, Wenger takes a few steps back and finds a wide open area in the box, ready for any scraps that happen to come.</p>
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He finds a very, very appealing scrap.</p>
<p>Beckerman stuck a foot in front of the cross, but only managed to roll it back to the top of the box. It will come directly to the feet of Wenger, whose only reasonable option is to put one on goal.</p>
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Wenger takes a shot first-time without much pressure, but smashes it into oblivion. He doesn't come all that close.</p>
<p>It wasn't a bad opportunity. He easily could have put it on target and, maybe, into the net if he hadn't leaned back so much.</p>
<p>The moral of this story is that things happen when the Dynamo put the ball in the box, whether by cross, shot or otherwise. That's how they generated offensive opportunities against RSL, and it's how they can score their goals. They pushed players into the box, kept possession around the area, and put in plenty of crosses, and it was effective. That's what they have to do to continue producing chances.</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/18/11693130/dynamo-film-session-chance-for-dynamo-shows-value-of-crossing
Harrison Hamm
2016-05-17T13:48:20-05:00
2016-05-17T13:48:20-05:00
Houston Dynamo Player Ratings vs. Real Salt Lake
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<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Defensive composure returned in the 1-0 defeat over Real Salt Lake while the offense took shot after shot until they finally found the net. </p> <h5><b>Quick Thoughts:</b></h5>
<p>1) This was one of the best 2<sup>nd</sup> halves I've seen the Dynamo play in a long time. While the 1<sup>st</sup> half was okay, it lacked some of the quality possession and chances that the Dynamo gained in the 2<sup>nd</sup>. The team hacked and hacked away until they finally got their goal. <b></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>2) Defense stepped up big time. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/">Real Salt Lake</a> had ZERO shots on goal due to perfect positioning by the defense, plenty of urgency in the box, and the midfield and forwards maintaining possession away from their own net. <b></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>3) This team is at its best when it applies the high press against opponents. It seems like after the Vancouver game we abandoned the tactic and fell into a hole just because they were effective with their long passes. But this game showed our ability to win the midfield and keep RSL penned in their own half for much of the game.</p>
<h5><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/">Houston Dynamo</a> Player Ratings</b></h5>
<p><b><span>Joe Willis</span> (7.5) -€”</b> Willis was the man in goal for the Dynamo again as <span>Tyler Deric</span> was serving his suspension for his challenge in the San Jose Earthquake match earlier in the week. Willis really didn't have much to do evidenced by his 0 saves, but he did have one nervous moment that came from a cross early. He caught the ball near the line and RSL players cried that it had gone over the line, but neither the center official nor AR saw it go all the way over. Willis's pressure on <span>Yura Movsisyan</span> forced a chipped shot which went over the top AND Willis was able to assist <span>Giles Barnes</span>.</p>
<p><b><span>DaMarcus Beasley</span>, MotM, (8) -€”</b> It was a fairly complete game for the four-time <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/fifa-womens-world-cup">World Cup</a> veteran as Beasley put in tremendous effort on both sides of the ball. Beasley had 3 tackles, a blocked shot, and 8 intercepted passes while passing with a very high accuracy himself. Beasley nearly had an assist himself following a perfectly placed cross to Cubo Torres, but Cubo's header would bounce over the top of the net.</p>
<p><b><span>David Horst</span> (6.5) -€” </b>What is it going to take for Horst to get another goal? Horst had 2 very close headers on goal, one of which hit the top of the crossbar. Defensively, Horst had a beautiful slide challenge and partnered well with Agus to force RSL attackers to move to the wings. However, his passing as a center back really needs to improve as only 50% of his passes went to Dynamo players.</p>
<p><b>Agus</b> <b>(6) -€”</b> Did well to force opponents into taking poor shots and blocked one himself. Agus passed just over 30% with only 5 passes making it to Dynamo players. That must improve as his partner Horst isn't the best passer either. But, the two have shown that their tough nature can force both big center forwards like Movsysan off the ball and technically gifted players outside like <span>Joao Plata</span>.</p>
<p><b><span>Sheanon Williams</span> (6.5) -€”</b> Williams made his way back into the starting XI to great effect. He was a big reason Plata's skills weren't on display at BBVA by stepping into his runs and clearing the ball effectively. Williams also pushed up the field well and combined with <span>Andrew Wenger</span> on a play that nearly saw Wenger score.</p>
<p><b><span>Ricardo Clark</span> (7) -€” </b>Passed the ball extremely well for a CM at 87.9% and was active all over the field. Clark managed 3 big tackles and 5 intercepted passes to go along with his 3 shots (2 of which were blocked including 1 that was blocked by Horst by accident). Clark has played all 90 minutes in the hectic 3 games in 7 days*, but has been one of the most consistent performers for the Dynamo in that time. <br> <br> *technically 8 since the game was postponed</p>
<p><b>Alex Lima (7) -€” </b>Alex came to play today as he nudged players off the ball, got in their way, and was just a pest to RSL forwards and midfielders which helped him recover the ball all over the place. Alex, most importantly, distributed the ball much better than he has in the past which eliminated a large amount of turnovers and counter attacks.</p>
<p><b><span>Cristian Maidana</span> (7) -€” </b>Really didn't contribute on the defensive end and essentially played as a withdrawn striker, but Chaco was finally playing in a #10 role where he can distribute key passes to players to set up opportunities on goal. Maidana had a game-high 73 touches while completing over 80% of his passes. This is the Maidana we want to see moving forward.</p>
<p><b>Giles Barnes (7.5) -€” </b>Barnes just plays better in front of the home crowd. Barnes scored the game's only goal by making an opportunistic run behind the RSL backline following a kick by Joe Willis. Barnes anticipated the ball would be headed back by judging how <span>Jamison Olave</span> was facing and he finished with a perfect shot around the keeper. Barnes nearly had a goal earlier in the match that had him 1v1 with RSL keeper <span>Jeff Attinella</span>, but his effort was saved.</p>
<p><b>Andrew Wenger (6) -€”</b> Had 2 tackles, 1 in each half of the field which highlights his pressure up the field and his ability to get back on the other end. Wenger moved the ball well and had a pair of quality opportunities on goal himself.</p>
<p><b><span>Erick Torres</span> (6.5) -€” </b>Cubo's first goal in Orange is coming as the Mexican striker managed 4 shots including a header that he nodded down into the ground which bounced over the top of the goal.</p>
<h5><b>The Subs: </b></h5>
<p><b><span>Leonel Miranda</span> (6.5) -€” </b>Came on for Wenger in the 67<sup>th</sup> minute, just after Barnes scored his goal, and quickly showed the benefit of fresh legs by running at the RSL defense. Miranda used his speed and creativity to pass well, intercept balls, and he set up himself for a very close chance on goal.</p>
<p><b>Oscar Boniek Garcia (6.5) -€” </b>Boniek entered the match for Cubo in the 77<sup>th</sup> minute and looked a lot like his old self again. Boniek used speed, finesse, and quality turns to maneuver through traffic and link with Barnes, who moved to the center forward role.</p>
<p><b><span>Will Bruin</span> (N/A) -€” </b>It was a cameo role for Will Bruin who entered the match for Giles Barnes in stoppage time.</p>
<p><b>Coach Owen Coyle (6.5) -€” </b>Coyle may have found a combination of players that work well. While Coyle alluded to "big changes" in the lineup in the wake of the disaster that was the match against San Jose, the only changes were putting DaMarcus Beasley back in (now that he was healthy), Sheanon Williams in over <span>Jalil Anibaba</span>, and giving Cubo the start over Will Bruin. The changes in the back showed immediate results as the club earned the shutout over RSL while Beasley and Williams both pinched in perfectly to slow down one of the league's best in Joao Plata. But the midfield tactics really stood out as they utilized a high press to pen RSL back in their own half which created chance after chance for the Dynamo.</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/17/11692686/houston-dynamo-player-ratings-vs-real-salt-lake
Gribbs
2016-05-17T09:30:03-05:00
2016-05-17T09:30:03-05:00
Three things from Dynamo's win against RSL
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<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Three things from an important Dynamo victory.</p> <p>It's been proven that the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/">Houston Dynamo</a> have the ability to win at home. That's nothing new for them, and it's the norm in MLS. But on the road? They've struggled mightily over the last two seasons, and it's one of the major reasons why they've failed to make the playoffs last year. Inconsistency away from home has plagued the Dynamo in the past, and this season has been no different.</p>
<p>So even though they turned in a very good performance against a solid Western Conference opponent on Sunday, don't get too hopeful about their playoff chances (I'm sure none of you are, right?). At this point, they have to win on the road consistently to have a serious chance at playing in November, and I'm not sure how confident I am that they will be able to do that. It starts with three road games in Chicago, Vancouver and Dallas over the next three weeks.</p>
<p>If they can replicate what they did against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/">Real Salt Lake</a>, they'll be just fine.</p>
<h4><b><span>1. Maidana</span></b></h4>
<p>One struggle on the offensive end this season for the Dynamo has been getting <span>Cristian Maidana</span> the ball in central areas and letting him pick out passes from more threatening areas. When he gets opportunities to do that, he is very good, but for the majority of this year, he's been stagnant in the chance-creation department.</p>
<p>Brought in to be a playmaking number-ten—and solely that, as he is by no means a goal-scorer, Maidana has struggled to get touches on the ball centrally where he does the most damage. That's evident in his passing map from the San Jose game:</p>
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<p>He drops deep in midfield to help in possession and he drifts out to the wings to send in crosses. For whatever reason, he doesn't take up positions in the central channel. The result is much less production; he only has one assist this season.</p>
<p>But on Sunday Maidana was much more effective as he was able to find the ball in better areas. He found a ton of space in central midfield, especially on the counter, and took advantage of it. He finished with an incredible seven key passes, and had the ball the most of any Dynamo player. The Argentine made 53 passes on the day—more than any other player in orange—and many of them were in central areas:</p>
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<p>He still took up positions on the wing, but for the most part, he stayed centrally, and clearly was at his best there.</p>
<p>That's what the Dynamo have to do. They have to do a better job of giving him the time and space to create opportunities, and provide service to the striker and the wingers. That's why he's in Houston, and it's how he's most effective.</p>
<p>But another part of their attack was even more effective against RSL:</p>
<h4>2. Wing play</h4>
<p>Against RSL, the Dynamo created most of their chances from the wings. Whether by sending in crosses, cutting into the central areas, or getting the ball to the top of the box, players like <span>Andrew Wenger</span> and <span>Giles Barnes</span> were very effective running down the wings, and RSL had trouble dealing with it all afternoon.</p>
<p>If you take a closer look at Maidana's passing chart above, you can see that he did a very good job of distributing the ball to wings. Often, Wenger and Barnes had opportunities isolated in the corner against <span>Tony Beltran</span> or <span>Demar Phillips</span>, and while too often they—particularly Barnes—didn't take them on 1v1, they were able to consistently get the ball in the box. They did that a lot.</p>
<p>This is a chart of their crosses (successful and unsuccessful) and key passes against RSL:</p>
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<p>That's a lot of crosses. And yes, a lot of them were unsuccessful. That happens. But sometimes this happens:</p>
<div style="width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 62.500%;"><iframe style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="https://streamable.com/e/c356"></iframe></div>
<p><span>Erick Torres</span> should have finished that. But it's great combination play from <span>DaMarcus Beasley</span> and Barnes—who did things like that all game—and Cubo did a good job of finding an open area in the box.</p>
<p>RSL's defense (mostly) did well defending against the crosses once they got in the box, but there were times where the Dynamo found an open man, or got a good opportunity on a rebound, or even just earned a corner. <span>David Horst</span> <a target="_blank" href="http://matchcenter.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2016-05-15-houston-dynamo-vs-real-salt-lake/details/video/65488">hit a crossbar</a>. <span>Ricardo Clark</span> <a target="_blank" href="http://matchcenter.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2016-05-15-houston-dynamo-vs-real-salt-lake/details/video/65471">missed an open header</a> just wide. Wenger <a target="_blank" href="http://matchcenter.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2016-05-15-houston-dynamo-vs-real-salt-lake/details/video/65478">pounced on a deflected ball </a>and smashed it into the stands. They ended up with nine corners total, and, as you can tell from Maidana's chart above, there were multiple that directly resulted in shots.</p>
<p>Things happen when you put balls in the box, especially when you do it patiently in build-up. In other words, it's less effective to blindly throw it in the box without some kind of possession beforehand. The Dynamo were much, much better at keeping the ball in the attacking third on Sunday, and slowly breaking down RSL's defense. They kept 52% of the ball—a large increase from recent games—and completed 265 passes in the attacking half, a major improvement compared to their 225 against San Jose and 189 against Sporting KC.</p>
<p>The result was more space, more numbers in the box, and thus more attacking chances. It allowed them to both make plays through the middle with Maidana and out on the wing with crosses and balls into the box. They attempted 17 shots, and although the finishing has to improve, they were very, very good offensively. It all starts with possession in the attacking third.</p>
<h4>3. Defensive improvements</h4>
<p>Impressively, the Dynamo's backline didn't allow a single shot on target the entire game. Real Salt Lake are talented offensively, so that's a massive accomplishment for a defense that has been among the worst in the league this season.</p>
<p>Agus and David Horst have developed a surprisingly good partnership in central defense, and the full-backs did a good job of pushing forward into the attack and supporting possession in the offensive half. That continued possession took some weight off the backline, which has directly led to improved performance.</p>
<p>Now, we see if they can sustain it.</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/17/11679652/three-things-from-the-dynamos-victory-over-real-salt-lake
Harrison Hamm
2016-05-16T09:30:14-05:00
2016-05-16T09:30:14-05:00
Houston Dynamo vs Real Salt Lake: Highlights
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<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/16/11683072/houston-dynamo-vs-real-salt-lake-highlights
Alicia Tolar
2016-05-15T15:09:51-05:00
2016-05-15T15:09:51-05:00
One goal is all Houston needed for a win over RSL
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<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Houston tops Real Salt Lake at home. </p> <p>Houston and <a href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Real Salt Lake</a> were supposed to face off at BBVA Compass Stadium on Saturday but Houston's rainy weather caused the game to be postponed to Sunday. Kicking off at 1 pm CT there were still concerns about being able to fit the full game in before the weather once again became treacherous.</p>
<p>It was a quite start to the game between the Western Conference opponents. Real Salt Lake looked like they may have scored a goal early on a corner kick. Dynamo goal keeper <span>Joe Willis</span> went back in the net as his grabbed the ball with arms stretched to keep it out.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Almost impossible to tell but I think Willis does JUST enough to keep this out. <a href="https://t.co/FohYYq23WV">pic.twitter.com/FohYYq23WV</a></p>
— Total MLS (@TotalMLS) <a href="https://twitter.com/TotalMLS/status/731912374895153152">May 15, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>The first half was a mostly quiet affair. Towards the end of the half the Dynamo started to push up the field more and eventually found a few chances in front of the net. Cubo Torres headed down a cross in front of an open net but the ball had a little too much on it as it went flying over the bar. Neither team managed to get a shot on target in the first half.</p>
<p>Houston started the second half strong as <span>Giles Barnes</span> had a shot blocked by the RSL goalkeeper. The rebound fell to Torres but his attempt went flying over the net. Minutes later <span>David Horst</span> had his shot go off the underside of the crossbar. In fact, Horst would have several chances on the afternoon that would fail to find the back of the net.</p>
<p>The Dynamo would finally find the back of the net thanks to Giles Barnes. Willis sent a long ball up the field and after taking a few bounces Barnes was able slot the ball right past Jeff Attinella. Willis would be credited with the assist on the play.</p>
<p>The Dynamo had several more chances after the goal but they weren't able to find the net again. What they did mange to do was close out the game something they have long struggled with. RSL finished the game without a shot on goal.</p>
<p>Even with the three points gained from the Sunday win the Dynamo still occupy last place in the Western Conference. Now they turn their sights to Toyota Park where they will face the <a href="https://www.hottimeinoldtown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago Fire</a> next weekend.</p>
<h4><span>Lineups</span></h4>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today's <a href="https://twitter.com/GEICO">@GEICO</a> starting XI: Willis; Williams, Horst, Agus, Beasley; Alex, Clark; Wenger, Maidana, Barnes ©; Torres <a href="https://t.co/7qbdkpacmH">pic.twitter.com/7qbdkpacmH</a></p>
— <a href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Dynamo</a> (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731893330875834368">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Starting XI vs <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo">@HoustonDynamo</a> <a href="https://t.co/gAH9wUALsS">pic.twitter.com/gAH9wUALsS</a></p>
— Real Salt Lake (@RealSaltLake) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealSaltLake/status/731891969354387456">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">67' SUB: <span>Leonel Miranda</span> replaces <span>Andrew Wenger</span>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvRSL?src=hash">#HOUvRSL</a></p>
— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731930518023852032">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p lang="da" dir="ltr">74' SUB: <span>Luke Mulholland</span> replaces John Stertzer. Still 1-0. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvRSL?src=hash">#HOUvRSL</a></p>
— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731932270336954368">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">75' SUB: <span>Jordan Allen</span> now on in place of <span>Chris Wingert</span>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvRSL?src=hash">#HOUvRSL</a></p>
— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731932408597991424">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p lang="cy" dir="ltr">77' SUB: Boniek García on for Erick Torres. Dynamo lead 1-0. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvRSL?src=hash">#HOUvRSL</a></p>
— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731932922819661824">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">82' SUB: Omes Garcia in for Juan Martinez. Dynamo still lead 1-0. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvRSL?src=hash">#HOUvRSL</a></p>
— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731934319174766592">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">90+2' SUB: <span>Will Bruin</span> on for Giles Barnes, who hands off the armband to Beasley and gets a nice round of applause. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HOUvRSL?src=hash">#HOUvRSL</a></p>
— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731936869328420864">May 15, 2016</a>
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https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/15/11678534/houston-dynamo-vs-real-salt-lake-final-score-one-goal-is-all-houston
Alicia Tolar
2016-05-14T17:30:02-05:00
2016-05-14T17:30:02-05:00
Real Salt Lake vs Houston Dynamo: How to watch, lineups and more
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sU9Mu96OSQIS9mYukyenTnkvGwU=/44x0:4453x2939/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49593761/usa-today-9275804.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>All you game day info as RSL comes to town. </p> <h4>Who</h4>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/">Houston Dynamo</a> vs <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/">Real Salt Lake</a></p>
<h4>What</h4>
<p>Houston play Real Salt Lake in this rematch. Houston looking to be turning the corner after a win over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thebluetestament.com/">Sporting Kansas City</a> but they fell flat in their midweek against against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.centerlinesoccer.com/">San Jose Earthquakes</a>. <span>Tyler Deric</span> got his second red card of the season and will be missing out on this home game. Can Houston right the ship? Time is running out. Check out our full game preview <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/13/11669492/real-salt-lake-vs-houston-dynamo-preview-dynamo-seeking-strength-at">here</a>.</p>
<h4>Where</h4>
<p>BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston, Texas</p>
<h4>When</h4>
<p>Saturday, May 14 at 7:30 pm CT</p>
<p>**Postponed until Sunday, May 15 at 1 pm CT**</p>
<h4>How to watch</h4>
<p>ROOT SPORTS Alt</p>
<p>SportsRadio 610 AM KILT</p>
<h4>Fan Lineups</h4>
<p>The 4-4-2 has regained its stranglehold at the expected lineup for fans. With Tyler Deric suspended <span>Joe Willis</span> garnered the most votes to start in goal, but dark horse <span>Jalil Anibaba</span> snagged a few votes after his time in goal last week. As the team continues to struggle votes are more disperse as fan are looking at starting other players in hopes of getting 3 points.</p>
<p>Agus (CB) 72.7%<br><span>DaMarcus Beasley</span> (LB) 86.4%<br><span>David Horst</span> (CB) 63.6%<br>Raul Rodrirguez (CB) 59.1%<br><span>Sheanon Williams</span> (RB) 45.5%<br><span>Ricardo Clark</span> (CDM/CM) 86.4%<br><span>Giles Barnes</span> (FW/LW/RW/CAM) 68.2%<br><span>Cristian Maidana</span> (CAM) 59.1%<br><span>Andrew Wenger</span> (FW/LW/RW) 86.4%<br>Erick "Cubo" Torres (FW) 86.4%</p>
<h4>Lineups</h4>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today's <a href="https://twitter.com/GEICO">@GEICO</a> starting XI: Willis; Williams, Horst, Agus, Beasley; Alex, Clark; Wenger, Maidana, Barnes ©; Torres <a href="https://t.co/7qbdkpacmH">pic.twitter.com/7qbdkpacmH</a></p>— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo/status/731893330875834368">May 15, 2016</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Starting XI vs <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonDynamo">@HoustonDynamo</a> <a href="https://t.co/gAH9wUALsS">pic.twitter.com/gAH9wUALsS</a></p>
— Real Salt Lake (@RealSaltLake) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealSaltLake/status/731891969354387456">May 15, 2016</a>
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https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/14/11675950/real-salt-lake-vs-houston-dynamo-how-to-watch-lineups-and-more
Alicia Tolar
2016-05-14T09:30:03-05:00
2016-05-14T09:30:03-05:00
Three Questions with RSL Soapbox
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<img alt="Joao Plata could spell trouble for the Dynamo" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZTlyIDyvoCgXAdsF3_WV4yWKH_0=/0x201:1416x1145/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49590453/usa-today-8704682.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Joao Plata could spell trouble for the Dynamo | Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>We spoke with Randal Serr at RSL Soapbox to talk about the rematch between Real Salt Lake and Houston. </p> <p>The rollercoaster season for the <a href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Dynamo</a> has had far more falls than ups exemplified by a satisfying 2-0 performance against <a href="https://www.thebluetestament.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Sporting Kansas City</a> and then 5 days later a 3-1 defeat to the <a href="https://www.centerlinesoccer.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">San Jose Earthquakes</a>. The team will now face <a href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Real Salt Lake</a> who the Dynamo faced just 2 weeks prior at Rio Tinto Stadium. The Dynamo took an early lead but small mistakes in front of goal allowed for momentum to swing back in favor of the home side as they took the game 2-1 in part due to brilliant goalkeeping by <span>Nick Rimando</span>.<br><br>Poor possession, turnovers, and an unorganized defense has helped opponents increase the volume and quality of their chances against the Dynamo. Houston will need to be smart against RSL, who are coming off a disappointing 1-0 loss to league leaders the <a href="https://www.burgundywave.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colorado Rapids</a>. Both sides will want points coming off losses, but Houston should be the hungrier side if they want to make up any ground in the Western Conference.<br><br>In our <a href="http://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/13/11669492/real-salt-lake-vs-houston-dynamo-preview-dynamo-seeking-strength-at">preview of the match</a> we discussed our last win and keys to succeeding at home, but we wanted to know what our opponent has been up to since we last faced off against so we spoke with Randal Serr at RSL Soapbox to find out what to expect in our season's first rematch.</p>
<p><b>Dynamo Theory: </b><span>Joao Plata</span> is a top player in the league at the forward position, but has missed out on the starting lineup the last few weeks due to injury. What is his status for starting in Houston and what does Plata bring to the entire squad as a player? <b></b></p>
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<p><b>RSL Soapbox: </b>I fully expect Plata to start against Houston this weekend. He put in about 30-35 minutes against Colorado last weekend off the bench and most people expected him to start last week. So if he doesn't start this time around, it will be very surprising. The real question is if he will return to the form he had before his short-term injury. As you alluded to, he was playing like a MVP candidate with a direct influence on virtually every goal that RSL scored to that point.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Dynamo Theory: </b>While the Dynamo have had their road woes, they've silently built a respectable home record having only lost 1 game at BBVA Compass Stadium all year (which is somewhat surprising given our overall record). How will RSL overcome the atmosphere in Houston to come away with points on the road? <b></b></p>
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<p><b>RSL Soapbox: </b>RSL learned to overcome the atmosphere in Houston over the past couple of years. For the first time in a long time, RSL has had pretty consistent success in Texas for the past while. They key to winning this time around will be hunger and veteran experience. Salt Lake has an interesting mix of veterans and youth in the club at the moment so if the younger players are up to the task, I think RSL can and should come away with at least a point.</p>
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<p><b>Dynamo Theory: </b>3 -€” It hasn't been very long since Real Salt Lake and Houston last met, but given that both sides are coming off a loss what kind of game do you predict? A physical bout? A game with a lot of pace?<b></b></p>
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<p><b>RSL Soapbox: </b>I expect RSL to keep their heads down and continue to put in the work required to win in this league. On the Real Salt Lake radio show this week, all indications and expectations are that if RSL is going to get a win on the road over the course of their current five-game road trip, this is the time to do it. Of course, that is easier said than done and Houston is still a formidable opponent on their home field. Clearly, the results bear that out. But RSL has been very good this year and needs to get things back on track after a loss in Colorado. The reason I feel like RSL has the upper hand is that from afar, Houston seems like they are in a bit of turmoil with regards to their coach and not knowing exactly who the best XI are. RSL is in a pretty stable position, so if they don't get a tie at least, it will leave the RSL fans in a bit of a frenzy.</p>
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<p>For my answers to Randal's questions please check them out at <a href="http://www.rslsoapbox.com/" style="background-color: #ffffff;">RSL Soapbox</a>!</p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/14/11673732/previewing-the-dynamo-vs-real-salt-lake-with-rsl-soapbox
Gribbs
2016-05-13T12:30:03-05:00
2016-05-13T12:30:03-05:00
Pick the Dynamo Lineup against Real Salt Lake
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<figcaption>Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>How should the Dynamo starting XI look to earn some desperately needed points? </p> <p>The 3 games in 7 days stretch is coming to a conclusion Saturday as the <a href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Dynamo</a> take on <a href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Real Salt Lake</a> the 2<sup>nd</sup> time this season. The Dynamo felt confident following their 2-0 victory over <a href="https://www.thebluetestament.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Sporting Kansas City</a> and hoped to build on the momentum of the win only to have that momentum stopped following an embarrassing midweek defeat to the <a href="https://www.centerlinesoccer.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">San Jose Earthquakes</a>. In the game goalkeeper <span>Tyler Deric</span> was red carded for the 2<sup>nd</sup> time this season in just his 3<sup>rd</sup> appearance.</p>
<p>It's no secret the Dynamo are searching for answers, but above all else, they're looking for points. A win over Real Salt Lake at home would make up some ground that they lost during the week. While the Dynamo have been abysmal on the road, their home record is actually decent as the club has only lost 1 game at BBVA Compass Stadium and the club will hope to use the atmosphere to get 3 points.</p>
<p>Against the San Jose Earthquakes, Head Coach Owen Coyle trotted out a similar lineup as the one that bested SKC, but with a few modifications to his starting XI. In place of Erick Torres as the center forward, <span>Will Bruin</span> earned the starting nod to match the physicality of San Jose's back line and <span>Abdoulie Mansally</span> also started in place of <span>DaMarcus Beasley</span> who was nursing an injury he picked up against Sporting KC. The lineup looked physically tired and mentally unprepared for the pace and creativity that the Earthquakes brought as the back line and midfielders were continuously bombarded with crosses from both sides of the field, creative 1-2 passing, and shots coming from all over. Despite being outmatched in the first half, the Dynamo were level with the home side at Avaya Stadium thanks to a stunning <span>Ricardo Clark</span> goal.</p>
<p>The second half just got worse. The Earthquakes pounced on early mistakes and put the game to bed quickly while Tyler Deric made the hole even deeper by being ejected for a careless tackle which was avoidable due to Agus's position. Owen Coyle will make lineup changes against Real Salt Lake. He will be forced to due to the strain of the schedule and the pressure of needing a win. I would anticipate a considerably different starting XI.</p>
<p><iframe width="350" height="500" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://lineupbuilder.com/350x500/?p=11&a=40402&t=&c=ff8400&1=GK_Willis__388_174&2=DL_Beasley__317_64&3=DCL_Agus__327_138&4=DCR_Rodriguez__327_211&5=DR_Williams__317_284&6=MLA_Miranda__204_64&7=MCL_Warner__222_138&8=MCR_Clark__222_211&9=MRA_Wenger__204_284&10=FCL_Bruin__98_138&11=FCR_Cubo__98_211&c2=ffffff&c3=ffffff&output=embed"></iframe></p>
<p><b>My Preferred Lineup</b></p>
<p>In my preferred lineup, we switch to a more robust and defensive minded midfield that is capable of possessing the ball for longer stretches. I want Alex Lima and <span>Giles Barnes</span> to sit on the bench because they both looked exhausted against San Jose. Up top I think the holdup play of Bruin combined with <span>Erick Torres's</span> ability to win balls could complement each other. I don't have a projected lineup because Coyle has stated there will be changes and given the arduous schedule I'm not sure how he'll merge putting out a strong and different lineup with resting players.</p>
<p>This team has the talent to win games but we just haven't seen enough of it this season. How would YOU put the pieces together to create the optimal starting XI against Real Salt Lake?</p>
<p><iframe src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1JGrtBn3eMeKhJU1Pa2gLbzZ0JDQJoaiFT2-P7lRigcQ/viewform?embedded=true" width="760" height="500" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0"></iframe></p>
https://www.dynamotheory.com/2016/5/13/11672648/pick-the-houston-dynamo-lineup-against-real-salt-lake
Gribbs