2nd place Gotham FC travels to Houston to take on the ever dangerous 6th place Houston Dash. Gotham sits 3 points above Houston but has played one less game. Gotham put on a season defining performance against the Chicago Red Stars. Let's see if that momentum carries them through. Here are some things I'm looking for in this matchup.
- Gotham getting points out of this one. Road points are tough in any soccer league. However, Gotham had yet to lose on the road all season. Getting a point in every match away from Harrison. Gotham is steadfast. Playing their brand of soccer no matter what the opponents throw at them. On the road home teams often come to play and are tactically more aggressive with the crowd behind them. Which plays into Gotham's trap. They wait teams out and attack when teams are over committed. Houston is very much that attacking team.
- Gotham bossing the middle of the field. Houston plays basically without an attacking midfielder. Groom is asked to be a supportive 6, an 8 and a number 9. Seemingly alone. Groom will play as a third attacker in a flat front 3 leaving much space behind. There were a couple times against Portland where the forwards got to the end line and played a ball back to the top of the 18 but there was no trailing runner. This favors Gotham. If Houston is going to attack that way against Gotham, Allie Long will have a field day with no pressure in stopping her pick out passes. The last thing you want to do against Gotham is to let Allie dictate the game. It will be a long (pun intended) night for Houston if they play like they did against Portland.
- Lastly I expect another shut out for Gotham. Gotham is too good defensively to give up many good looks to Houston. Houston attacks in a similar way that Chicago does. Sending two forwards. Trying to get on the break or behind the line. Chicago's attackers are world class and Gotham shut them down. I expect the same here.
Predictions:
Gary: 2-0 Gotham
Ruby: 1-0 Gotham
Hayley: 1-0 Houston
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Gary Gibson