FRISCO - FC Dallas wrapped up a brutal portion of their schedule with an impressive 6-1-1 record after playing eight games in just 29 days between June 25 and July 23, with six regular season games and two Open Cup matchups in that span. They started that stretch with a 2-0 win over Real Salt Lake on June 25 and finished nearly a month later with a 1-1 draw at Colorado on Saturday, thanks to a late goal from Victor Ulloa, before finally heading home for a week-long rest until their next game - their longest break since mid-June.
Such a tightly packed schedule, combined with training and extra travel for away games, was sure to take its toll on the players eventually. But despite injuries, roster changes, extra time, and tired legs, they still managed to dominate - except for one loss - which proves the strength of this team runs deep.
Offensively, Dallas outscored their opponents 14-7 during that stretch. Mauro Diaz played in seven of those eight games and tallied four assists, one goal, and five shots on goal, plus plenty more chances. His stellar performances this month also earned him a spot on the MLS All-Star squad, being handpicked for the big game by MLS Commissioner Don Garber. Maxi Urruti played in six of those games and recorded one assist and three goals, two of which were game-winners because coming in clutch is what he does best. He also had that incredible bicycle kick winner against the Earthquakes on July 8, handing San Jose its first loss at home this season.
On the defensive side, Chris Seitz had a 315-minute shutout streak for the first three games he played during that stretch, against Salt Lake, Orlando, and San Jose. Matt Hedges and Walker Zimmerman have held the backline intact, and both of them had key tackles in Saturday's game. Dallas also boosted their roster with two new signings in the past month - Brazilian forward Getterson, who has yet to play for Dallas, and defender Aubrey David from Guyana, who has already played two games with his new teammates.
The team's strength and perseverance earned them the first place spot in the Western Conference and Supporter's Shield standings with their July 4th win, and they're still atop the table with 41 total points nearly a month later - though they were eight minutes away from slipping to second place on Saturday until Ulloa's goal saved their standing with an equalizer.
The fact that the team came together and supported each other through the toughest stretch of their 2016 schedule sets the tone for a great second half of the season - one that will hopefully keep them at the top of the table.
