I recently interviewed Darrell Lovell, who covers the Houston Dynamo for MLSSoccer.com, to preview the upcoming Eastern Conference Semifinal 1st leg. Below are some excerpts from the interview.
On Dominic Kinnear & Houston's consistency
"He is a steadying influence and he's a calming influence."
"He's always the same way. They (players) know what to expect and what's expected of them."
"He's created an environment where guys can come in, be professional, take care of their business and because they are all doing that, it translates into success on the field."
On Oscar Boniek Garcia
"He's the perfect fit for the Dynamo. That was a slam dunk signing. I think its the best signing in the league this year. He's just the quintessential fit for what the Dynamo do."
On Sporting KC
"I think they are one of the best teams in the league, not just for their record, but they play on the field. It's that 90 minutes of hell. They're going to get out there and push, push, push. The lags and drops in the pressure are so infrequent and so short that it makes it really tough."
"I've been in awe of what they've done all season. They've been the only team in the East that can do it at home and on the road."
On Sunday's match
"I think it's going to be a great match. I think both teams are going to come out and looking to impose their will on the other. I fully expect Sporting Kansas City to come in and want to show they are not be intimidated by Houston. I expect Houston to try and come out and try to establish their dominance at home. I expect a full out and out 90 minute battle."
