The Houston Dynamo have a weekend’s respite from MLS play, but are still in action as they face Mexican giants Chivas de Guadalajara at BBVA Compass Stadium on Sunday evening (6 p.m.; TICKETS).
Interim head coach Wade Barrett still sees plenty that the team has to play for after a disappointing 3-1 loss to rivals FC Dallas last Saturday, even as the mathematical odds on reaching the playoffs dwindle. The team sits 10 points back of the final playoff spot in the Western Conference with just eight games remaining.
“We have our jobs to play for. We have the city to play for. We have the fans to play for. We have ourselves,” Barrett told media following the loss. “There are a lot of different ways the season can go and it’s within our power to determine how that will happen.”
Even if playoffs are out of reach, VP/general manager has been consistent in saying that he’s looking for the team to “finish the season strong” and build upon the improvements that have taken place over the past several months.
“That’s important on a lot of different levels,” Jordan told broadcaster Glenn Davis in a recent interview. “We are committed to finishing the season strong, but also planning going into next season.”
The Dynamo brought in a trio of young players during the summer transfer window in defender Keyner Brown and midfielders Yair Arboleda and José Escalante, but none have made their debut with the first team so far. Sunday’s exhibition could change that, and perhaps open the door for MLS playing time as the season closes.
“The further away the playoff hopes go, not that those players aren’t ready, but I think we brought them along at the right pace. I hope that we’ll see those guys,” Barrett said. “I’m looking forward to next weekend. It’s a great opportunity for us to play a meaningful game, so it’ll be a good test next weekend and I certainly hope that we’ll see those guys over the course of the season.”
