Clash of the champions?

By: Chris | April 20th, 2007

Ok, so maybe the headline is premature, but after struggling in 2006, Bruce’s boys can be compared favorably to the same Houston side which dominated MLS last season. Possessing identical records, both teams began the season with a draw and dramatically rose their play to record a win in match 2 (not to mention dealing dead weight to Toronto).

Beginning up front, Houston’s game is built largely around a little- big man combo of Daglish and targetman Brian Ching continues to dominate the air, providing knockdowns and space for Daglish to finish. Watching Jozy’s performance last season, it was clear that he possesses similar physical tools– exhibited not least his well headed goal.

But what impressed me most was not his goal, but to his hold up play from his hold up play and deft assist on Clint Mathis’s goal, along with his hold up play throughout the match. This kid may never be a 20+ goal striker, but, like Ching, he is a player who will do the dirty work, draw defenders and open upon gaps for his teammates. With goalscorer Juan Pablo Angel unavailable on Saturday, Alti is set to continue his role in a 4-5-1.

After Clint’s performance last Saturday, beleaguered Dallas defenders were likely reminded of the hard and direct running of Dewayne Derosario. Derosario may have the edge on skill, but both players share the instinct to strike at a moments notice. Surrounded by an otherwise workmanlike midfield, both players will likely serve as the focal point of attack– running out of midfield to confront opposing defenders. With Houston holding a slight edge of speed down the left flank, look for Van Der Berg to cheat inside to combine with Reyna and Mathis.

A question on the mind of Houston supporters is likely to be where they will see Richard Mulrooney? After his acquisition from Toronto FC, both teams possess several two way utility player whose value is often unheralded by opposing defenders. Luckily, our’s is 5 years younger and still developing his game. I am referring of course to Steve “the sneak attack” Stammler, who, according to Ives, is likely to be on the bench this weekend.

Watching this guy at practice, it is clear is that he brings the same intensity to games and practice alike– whether at center back, center midfield or on the flank. If Stammler has an Achilles heel, it is that he is too versatile. Despite frequently switching positions in practice, his uncanny ability to pop up with clutch goals continue to feature consistently. In an otherwise closely contested match, Stammler’s long range shooting and threat on freekicks may prove the deciding factor.

Until then, it seems the emergence of Clint Mathis has relegated Claudio to a rather expensive water carrier. Sitting slightly in front of Dema, Claudio will be free to do what he does best: spring offenders Mathis and Richards with accurate passing. Despite his recovery however, he remains a likely candidate for a second half sub.

Perhaps most intriguing going in to tomorrow however will be the team’s style of play minus Marvell Wynne. While public opinion has questioned this trade, I feel Bruce has made another solid decision. Already sponsored by Adidas, Wynne succumbed to the sort of pressure which stifled his development. Despite his enormous pace, his tactical development under Mo was non-existent, while he obviously made no fan of Bruce.

This move looks to be as much about team building as results on the the field. Hunter Freeman may lack Wynne’s speed, but his attitude and fresh outlook stand in stark contrast to Wynne’s baggage. In the end, Wynne got a move closer to home, while Bruce has cleared the air in the dressing room. With Mo’s head already on the chopping block, lets just hope he makes a fan out of Bob Gansler.