The Dynamo traveled to Tucson, Ariz. on Monday morning to begin the first of two preseason trips. The club will also visit Charleston, S.C. for the Carolina Challenge Cup Feb. 16-23.
This trip includes three scrimmages against MLS competition beginning Tuesday afternoon (3 p.m. MT, 4 p.m CT) against the San Jose Earthquakes. The Dynamo face the Colorado Rapids on Thursday and the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday before flying back to Houston on Sunday morning.
This week in Tucson represents an opportunity for players to make an impact and an impression with several regulars not on the trip. In addition to Will Bruin, Tally Hall and Brad Davis, who will suit up for the U.S. national team on Tuesday night at BBVA Compass Stadium, Boniek Garcia is with Honduras and Corey Ashe, Calen Carr and Omar Cummings are each rehabbing injuries. With seven potential starters not on the Tucson trip, it offers quality minutes to several trialists and the squad players looking to crack the lineup on March 2 against D.C. United.
Today's practice session was a good indication of the competitive spirit in the camp. After a morning flight from Houston the club had a practice session at Kino Sports Complex with 40-degree temperatures and cold, desert winds. It wasn't an easy day in the sun after a morning flight. The group engaged in a spirited session that included a half-field scrimmage highlighted by impressive speed of play and some quality goals.
Now, with three games in five days, the players will have a chance to perform against MLS competition. It should be fun to watch. Check HoustonDynamo.com throughout the week for match reports and more.
