Sep 13, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Dynamo defender A.J. Cochran (16) celebrates after scoring a goal during the first half against the Columbus Crew at BBVA Compass Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Dynamo hosted the Columbus Crew on Saturday to begin a critical stretch of “six-point” games. They started the stretch with a 2-2 disappointing tie at home as they search for much needed points and a playoff spot. With a weekend filled with five ties, three between Eastern Conference opponents, the Dynamo could have taken advantage of the opportunity with the win.
Every game is a six-point game.” – Houston Dynamo GM Chris Canetti
Despite being up 2-0 at home, they failed to close out the game and settled for a lousy point. Currently, the Dynamo sit five points from the fifth and final playoff spot with 32 points. A win would have had them only three points back. Instead, they now sit three teams between themselves and the fifth spot.
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On Saturday, they face a confident Philadelphia Union squad that sits in sixth place with 37 points. It’s another game with a six point swing involved, but the Dynamo haven’t played that well on the road this season. They’ve only scored 10 goals and have a -2 road goal differential.
On the other hand, the Union will be hosting their third game in a week. When Houston comes to PPL Park, Philadelphia will be either coming off winning the franchise’s first trophy or 2014 US Open Cup Final runner-ups. Nonetheless, Union fans and supporters will be rowdy.
Inter Heron
If Houston can’t secure critical wins and three points at home, their chances are even slimmer on the road. With the latest result, the Dynamo have seven games to go. Dynamo GM Chris Canetti spoke to Playing for 90 early this week about the Dynamo’s season down the home stretch.
"“At the beginning of the season, we dug ourselves in a big hole and we are now trying to get ourselves out of it,” Canetti mentioned looking forward to the Dynamo’s final seven games and commented on current form. “Since acquiring Beasley and Garrido, the Dynamo are 4-2-1.”"
The Dynamo look for critical points on the road this weekend before returning to BBVA Stadium for September 28th match against the Chicago Fire.
"“We have to keep playing well with seven games to go. Every game is six-point game and we must win at home.”"