For the second time in 2017, FC Dallas and the Houston Dynamo will do battle in the Texas Derby. Both clubs will be looking to bounce back from the scoreless draw the two clubs played to in the first edition of the Derby in Frisco on May 28.
What are five things you should look for on Friday?
Goalkeepers Duel
In the first edition of 2017’s chapter of the Texas Derby, both homegrown goalkeepers put on quite a show to keep the game scoreless. FC Dallas man Jesse Gonzalez made two saves to keep Houston off the board. The Dynamo’s Tyler Deric made three stops, including a highlight reel full-stretch save on a Kellyn Acosta free-kick that almost dipped under the bar to break the deadlock.
La Pantera
Houston Dynamo forward Alberth Elis, or “La Pantera,” has emerged as one of the top attackers in MLS in his first season in America. At just 21-years-old, he has six goals and three assists in 14 games played. He is a big part of the Dynamo’s 29 goals this season, which is second in MLS behind Atlanta United for the league lead.
Even Steven
The Dynamo and FC Dallas are level on points (24) entering Friday's match. The Dynamo do hold a game in hand over Dallas, but a win on Friday would put either side a top the Western Conference tied with Sporting Kansas City at 27 points.
Dynamo Defending Home Field
The Dynamo have been outstanding in Houston this season. They have not lost at BBVA Compass Stadium, posting a 7-0-1 record. FC Dallas has not necessarily struggled on the road this season, but will be looking to build on a 2-2-3 road record.
Bouncing Back
After a 1-1 draw with the Vancouver Whitecaps over the weekend, FC Dallas can take the season series lead with a win on Friday. Both clubs have had the exact same run of less than stellar form over the last six games with a 1-3-2 record. Who will bounce back on track?
