With a shot at the playoffs slipping away, the Houston Dynamo head to Columbus to take on the Crew in what could be considered a must win. The Dynamo currently hold the third of four wild card positions but their grip is loose. DC sits behind them in fourth just 1 point back and with 3 games in hand. New York and Portland are two points back, each with a game in hand.
Houston comes in to this game depleted on the front line. Honduran Carlo Costly will miss the match after receiving a red card Saturday in the 3-0 loss to Sporting Kansas City. Captain Brian Ching is “hopeful” to play tonight after suffering a groin injury. Rookie Will Bruin returned from knee surgery Saturday and could be pressed to start if Ching is forced to join Costly on the bench. Tony Tchani and Eddie Gaven will both miss the match while Bernardo Anor who lit up Houston this season in their previous meeting, is doubtful.
If the Dynamo want any shot at making the playoffs they have got to get 3 points on the road in Columbus which is not an easy task. The task will be much more difficult with the possibility of two forwards being out. Cam Weaver and Jason Garey are the only Dynamo forwards fully healthy and could carry the burden tonight. Brad Davis will look to unlock the Crew defense and he may need to find the ne to secure three points. Brazilian Luiz Camargo made his league debut Saturday and could see action tonight.
As much as I want the Dynamo to play well and win and ultimately make the playoffs, it seems like this team is running out of steam. Columbus is tough and with the Dynamo on short rest I look for a 3-1 Crew win.
(image courtesy of Anthony Vasser/Houston Dynamo)
