Goalscorers get a lot of attention in soccer. That’s the nature of the beast. But behind those scorers are players who often drive their team’s attacks.
One of the best in MLS is Houston’s Brad Davis. In a season in which the Dynamo have gone through a number of ups and downs, Davis has been a steady force. The engine that drives the Dynamo attack, he has consistently provided chances for Houston attackers in front of net.
“My role’s to drive the attack,” Davis said. “It’s my job to create. We have other guys to try and score goals, but my job is to get the attack going, create, and do the best I can to get balls served in the box.”
Davis is coming off of two consecutive seasons in which he registered an impressive 12 assists. Just 15 games into 2011, he’s on pace to surpass that mark, notching a league-leading nine assists already.
“I set a goal each year to do a little better," he said. "I do think I need to score a few more goals as well, and that’s something I put on myself. But as far as assists go and getting into the attack, I’ve slowly gotten better, which is good.”
His production has made him a sure bet to earn a third straight All-Star appearance. However, it will likely come as a media or league selection. Despite Davis’s production, the midfielder is not currently one of the top vote-getters in the fan voting.
“The All-Star Game is definitely a fan’s event, and the fan voting is good, because there are definitely players that they want to see,” Davis said. “There’s a percentage of voting that’s done by media and coaches, and if I get in by them, I’ll be happy.”
Vote Davis for the 2011 MLS All-Star Game
With the All-Star voting still in question, Davis’s club understands just how important he is to its attack and overall success. His ability to serve balls — both in the attack and on set pieces — makes him an invaluable part of the Dynamo lineup.
“He’s technically an excellent player,” said Houston boss Dominic Kinnear. “His delivery on set pieces speaks for itself, but his overall awareness during the game of what’s needed is good. He’s one of those guys, if you give him time and space on the ball, he’ll make good things happen.”
Darrell Lovell covers the Houston Dynamo for MLSsoccer.com. Follow him on twitter at @Dynamoexaminer.
