Houston Dynamo try to overcome absentees and start MLS comeback against Austin FC | OneFootball

In one of the most eagerly awaited MLS clashes this weekend, the Houston Dynamo take on Austin FC at the Shell Energy Stadium. The home side will be looking for their first win in three games to break their losing streak, but the visitors will be looking to keep the momentum going for their second win in a row.

Houston Dynamo continue to struggle this season

Houston Dynamo FC v Colorado Rapids | Marcus Ingram/GettyImages

Houston Dynamo fans are finding it extremely difficult to support their team due to a lack of convincing results for the second season in a row. Ben Olson's side drew 2-2 last weekend thanks to Ondrej Lingr's late goal.

Despite avoiding defeat, the Houston Dynamo are only in second-to-last place in their conference with seven points from their nine MLS games. In addition, Ben Olson is in charge of the third worst attack in the West with only eight goals scored, an average of less than one goal per game. Another uncomfortable figure is the 14 goals conceded, showing that there is considerable defensive fragility.

For this weekend's clash, the Houston Dynamo will have to deal with the absence of several key players. Jimmy Maurer and Duane Holmes have been carrying injuries since the start of the season and are out, as well as Lawrence Ennail, who has suffered a cruciate ligament injury. Goalkeeper Andrew Tarbell remains out of the starting line-up even though he has recovered from injury, while Brazilian Junior Urso is doubtful as he is recovering from an undisclosed injury.

Austin FC seeks to close April with 2nd win in a row

Vancouver Whitecaps FC v Austin FC | Derek Cain/GettyImages

After three consecutive wins during an exciting month of March, Austin FC found themselves in trouble from the start of April with a draw and a defeat in their first two games. At least a reaction seemed to come last weekend, when the run of games without a win was broken with a 1-0 win over LA Galaxy

Last week's victory left the visitors in second place in their conference with 16 points. That is, four points behind Vancouver Whitecaps, who have been considered the team to beat in the Western Conference since the start of the season.

Austin FC will be without defender Mikkel Desler, who is recovering from a muscle injury. Another absentee will be Brendan Hines-lke, who is suspended after receiving a red card in the previous gameweek.