The Houston Dynamo entered the 2011 season with a load of question marks. After failing to make the playoffs in 2010, the Dynamo did not completely rebuild the squad but brought in a lot of new faces. This season has had its ups and downs. After an undefeated April, Houston went winless in May. Even with the struggles this season, the Dynamo are still in a position to make the playoffs with a good second half. The big question for the Dynamo heading into the second half is whether or not they will sign a DP in the summer transfer window. After the failed signing of Koke, the team really needs to make a splash to strengthen the team if they want to make a postseason appearance.
Here are the mid-season awards for the Houston Dynamo:
Most Valuable Player: Brad Davis
Davis leads Major League Soccer with 9 assists and his influence on the Dynamo offense cannot be understated. Davis pulls all the strings in the Houston midfield and his service from set pieces is among the best in the league.
Offensive Player of the Year: Cam Weaver
Weaver is the joint top scorer on the Dynamo with 4 goals and has played well while Brian Ching nursed injuries. Weaver is a big hardnosed forward and consistently gives great effort in the box winning aerial battles and setting up other players.
Defensive Player of the Year: Tally Hall
Pat Onstad left the Dynamo at the end of the 2010 season and Hall was given the starting goalkeeper job for 2011. Great move. Hall has been spectacular at times (at New York and at Colorado). He seldom makes mistakes and is a great shot stopper. It looks like the Dynamo have found their goalkeeper for years to come.
Rookie of the Year: Will Bruin
The rookie from Indiana is tied for the team lead in goals with Weaver (3 coming in one game against DC). Bruin has stepped in from day one and been a solid contributor in the Houston lineup. Another rookie, Kofi Sarkodie, has also played well on defense in his time on the field.
(image courtesy of Anthony Vasser/Houston Dynamo)
