Football Season Review

After a truly disastrous 2016 season, the Houston Dynamo would perform well in the 2017 campaign, making significant improvements under the stewardship of Wilmer Cabrera. Finishing in fourth position in the Western Conference table, the Dynamo would make the playoffs for the first time in a number of years, going all the way to the Western Conference finals. Their campaign would end short of glory however, with the oranges suffering a 5-0 aggregate defeat at the hands of the Seattle Sounders. Nonetheless, Houston have certainly shown themselves to be a solid side this season, and will most likely be right up there challenging again next year. Losing just 1 home league match all campaign, Houston’s form at the BBVA Compass Stadium was absolutely exceptional. Their record away from home however is what really let them down. Winning just 1 regular season road game, the Dynamo struggled to perform when outside of Texas. The attacking trio of Alberth Elis, Erick Torres, and Mauro Manotas proved to be a potent threat for Houston all season, combining together for a total of 34 goals and 12 assists. Their presence will need to be felt again next season if the Dynamo want to replicate this year’s form. The recent news of both Alberth Elis and Juan David Cabezas joining Houston on permanent deals will be absolutely crucial for the club. With Elis and Cabezas being two of the most consistent performers on the team, their continued inclusion is vital to the Dynamo’s chances next season. The acquisition of veteran midfielder Arturo Alvarez from the Chicago Fire also looks like a solid piece of business for Houston. With Alvarez impressing for Chicago over the last few seasons, he could bring some added depth and quality to the squad, and help them push for another successful season.

Player of the Season: Alberth Elis