Dynamo can't afford slipup at Vancouver

The Houston Dynamo have little time to celebrate ending a seven-game winless match Wednesday because it will go for naught without a road victory Saturday against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Houston (10-15-4, 34 points) kept its slim Western Conference playoff hopes alive with a 2-0 victory vs. Minnesota United. It was the Dynamo's first win after a tie and two losses since Davy Arnaud was named interim coach Aug. 13 after replacing Wilmer Cabrera.

The Dynamo are nine points behind FC Dallas and Portland for the final postseason spots with five games to play.

"I think the most important thing for me is the win for the guys and for the team. They put a lot into the last three weeks," Arnaud said. "They've been putting a lot in for a long time now, but particularly in the last three weeks. I am extremely happy for them that we've gotten three points, that's the most important thing."

Vancouver (6-15-9, 27 points) is last in the Western Conference and has been eliminated from playoff contention.

"We've got to finish the season strong," Whitecaps forward Tosaint Ricketts said. "We've got a lot of things we can prove in these last few games and grow upon for next year, and that's our plan going into the final games."

Vancouver is 4-6-4 at BC Place during a disappointing season. Overall, the Whitecaps have lost three straight and four of five.

"We desperately want a win," Whitecaps defender Scott Sutter said. "Everyone needs it at the club -- the players, the staff, the fans. Everyone wants three points regardless that there's nothing to play for. There's always pride on the line."

Houston has its problems as well, but a bright spot has been forward Mauro Manotas, who scored his 12th goal of the season during the win over Minnesota United.

Another positive against the Loons was Joe Willis making four saves for his third shutout, the Dynamo's first in 12 games since July 3.

--Field Level Media