GALAXY TODAY

at Houston, noon PDT, FSNW and TeleFutura

Site -- Robertson Stadium.

Radio -- 1700, 830 (Spanish).

Records -- Galaxy 7-13-6, Dynamo 14-7-6.

Record vs. Dynamo -- 0-1-1.

Update -- Unbeaten in its last four games and having an outside shot at making the playoffs if it can win at least three of its final four matches, the Galaxy today takes on defending MLS champion Houston for the third time this season. The teams played to a 0-0 tie in the season opener in April, and the Dynamo won, 3-1, in Carson last month. Houston and U.S. national team midfielder Ricardo Clark is suspended for the remainder of the season for purposely kicking fallen striker Carlos Ruiz of FC Dallas last weekend, but Galaxy Coach Frank Yallop said the Dynamo can easily overcome Clark’s absence by starting Richard Mulrooney in his place. “It doesn’t change them much; they’re a good side,” Yallop said. The Galaxy, meanwhile, is showing some renewed confidence. “The last four games have been good for us,” Yallop said. “The spirit has been terrific. Our guys are a little bit more rested and healthier and are feeling better about themselves.” Los Angeles is six points, or two victories, shy of the eighth and final playoff spot. Houston and Chivas USA are in a tussle for first place in the Western Conference.

-- Grahame L. Jones