Football Season Review

Dallas failed to make it to the playoffs for the first time in four years as a poor second half of the campaign saw them finish seventh in the Western Conference despite being level on points with San Jose Earthquakes, who made it to the post-season thanks to a superior win record. Having been crowned the Supporters' Shield champions in the previous campaign, Dallas were looking to go one step ahead and claim their first ever MLS Cup trophy but, despite being near the top of the Western Conference standings in the first half of the season, Dallas hit a big blip in form as they ended the campaign with just two wins from their final 15 games. Coach Oscar Pareja was not helped by injury to Mauro Diaz, which saw the midfielder make just 13 starts over the course of the campaign, while Max Urruti and Kellyn Acosta both suffered loss of form in the second half of the season, with the former managing just one goal in his final 15 matches. There were positives for Pareja to build on, with Michael Barrios emerging as a credible replacement for Fabian Castillo as the midfielder looked dangerous on the flanks and topped the assists chart by supplying 12 goals. Roland Lamah was a decent acquisition as well, chipping in with 11 goals though he will need to improve on his consistency. Pareja though will need to bring some new bodies in, especially in the defense with Atiba Harris and Hernan Grana both being let go while Walker Zimmerman and Walker Hume have also left the club. A reliable backup for Urruti up front is also needed while the search for Diaz's replacement continues with Javier Morales failing to impress in Diaz's absence.

Player of the Season: Michael Barrios