The Good, Bad, and Ugly - A reflection on the Dynamo through Matchweek 15 (5/25/24 - 6/1/24)

 

Before we Begin…

           …A slight change from the usual analytical breakdown. No defense of anyone. No criticism of anyone. Well, not in the same manner as the last post. I am going to discuss my opinions about the good, the bad, and the ugly of the Dynamo at this point of the season. Short, sweet, and to the point. Again, this is just my opinion. Please feel free to discuss your good, bad, and ugly. I want to hear from the fans on here, and all the socials. Again, no defense, criticisms, or arguing from me. This is a “state of the fans” post and want to hear from the fans. I encourage everyone who reads and responds to criticize my take; however, I encourage everyone to allow others to respond without arguing. I want this to be a safe and open discussion for fans to give their take. With that said, let’s get to…

The Good…

…The Dynamo are in 7^th place with 16 matches played, a 0-goal differential, and a game in hand on three of the six teams ahead of us in the Western Conference entering a bye week. The only Western Conference team in action this weekend that can leap over the Dynamo (assuming they win) is Portland; a team sitting on 17 matches entering their 18^th. All other Western Conference teams in action this weekend are sitting on 15 matches played entering their 16^th. While 7^th place would not normally fall under “the good” category, I am placing it here for two reasons. The first reason has zero logic behind it; that being trust in Ben, Pat, and Asher. If not trust, then hope. Comparing points from this time last year to this year, there is an improvement in results. Whole that is not much to go on, I am hopeful the Dynamo will figure out a solution to make a run. Again, no logic. Just pure hope.

Reason number two includes “weathering the storm” of injuries. Particularly, managing results (unexpected wins and devastating draws) until H.H. returned. It is undeniable that H.H. is the lifeline of this team, not only as a playmaker, but also as a leader. While he is still returning to 90-minute fitness, and the team has struggled to score consistently, H.H.’s ability on the ball and the attention he draws from defenders provides more opportunities for others. Yes, the finishing opportunities is lacking; however, over the last 3 matches, it is difficult to ignore H.H.’s impact on the field. With 9 matches played (6 being starts totaling 549 minutes on the field), H.H. is responsible for 3 of the Dynamo’s 18 goals. Again, while those numbers would not normally fall under “the good” category, I will consider it a win considering the team has played most of the season, without a true number 9. No matter the reason, the reality is Sebas has played in 4 matches (1 start totaling 141 minutes). Either way you math it, H.H. and Sebas played less than 2 full matches together at maximum. Add injuries to Escobar, Sviachenko, Gaines, Clark, and Quinones (season-ending at that), I will take a 6-4-6 record all things considered. Now, let’s get to…

The Bad…

            …The Dynamo’s consistency. Let’s start with the attack (like I said defense). The inability to finish their chances is glaringly apparent. In 16 regular season matches, the Dynamo have only managed to score multiple goals in 4 matches. While the possession game and one-touch passing is beautiful to watch, and the defensive effort is resilient (shoutout to Micael’s hustle), beautiful passing with limited goals to show for it is not acceptable. No matter how great the defense has been, you can only absorb so much pressure before breaking. Needless to say, the lack of scoring has cost us points at home and away. Ben Olsen is not immune to this list. For whatever reason, Ben’s substitution decisions have missed the mark. Whether it is timing, position, or personnel decisions; there’s been more poor decisions than good ones. Now it is time to addresss…

The Ugly…

            …The front office (but not for the reasons you think). I want to start with the athletic trainers. I have no idea who this one falls on. Whoever is responsible for strength and conditioning, I just have a question: “what are you doing (or not doing) to the players?” I say this with a twinge of jest, but the reality is that our players keep getting injured. We can’t ignore the “ugliness” of that reality. Either way, it is ugly, and it has not helped. Which brings me to Pat and Asher. I understand the complexity around the limited activity during the first window. No need to argue either point. Either way, it was an “ugly” response. Will it be the right decision?! I hope so. Either way, right now we are in an “ugly” roster situation. Let’s see how everyone responds

Stoppage Time Thoughts…

            …There has been good, bad, and ugly with this team. Ultimately, I am alright with where we are right now. Could it be better? Yes! Could it be worse? Absolutely! Is it frustrating as hell? No doubt! And I will take it. Let’s see what summer brings. Until then…

Signing off for now, “El Profe”