MLS Week 18 Predictions

Saturday, July 16th
Vancouver Whitecaps - Real Salt Lake: One of the league's current worst teams hosting one of the league's very best. Not much to say for this one, Real Salt Lake should easily have this one.

Seattle Sounders - Colorado Rapids: Back when the Sounders visited the Rapids in April was the fateful night when Brian Mullen broke Steve Zakuani's leg. The Sounders went on to win that game on a first half goal by Fredy Montero despite being outplayed by a team that was down a man. Because of that incident, emotions will more than likely be running high in Century Link field this afternoon. Not only is there that provided boost, but also the possibility of a return of O'Brien White after being sidelined for a couple months dealing with a blood clot in his leg. On Colorado's side they have finally managed to get Conor Casey and Omar Cummings on the field on the same time, and they have definitely proven to be a lethal duo. If the Sounders can keep their heads and not enter the game over confident or flat (especially after the mid week Open Cup match) and properly contain the threat of Cummings and Casey they should have no problem coming out with a win.

Chicago Fire - Portland Timber: The Timber hosted the Fire earlier in the season at Jeld Wen and came out with an exciting 3-2 victory. Since then both teams haven't exactly been wildly successful, the Timbers having not won in seven matches and Chicago having the highest number of ties of any team in the league. Chicago will definitely be looking for sweet payback, and they should have no trouble finding it if the Timbers' poor road form continues to hold up.

Chivas USA - New York Red Bulls: Chivas pulled off quite an upset against the Red Bulls earlier in the season, getting the win riding on a hat trick courtesy of Justin Braun. New York is without a doubt looking to make up for that embarrassment, they even have so much conviction as to field their new DP keeper Frank Rost who only just arrived in the States and has barely even acquainted himself with his team mates. I have my doubts with that strategy, it could either work fantastically for them or be their downfall. Keeper issues aside, New York definitely has what it takes to get the win.


Sunday, July 17th
New England Revolution - Philadelphia Union: New England hosted European giants Manchester United earlier this week and held their own with their first team, which is no doubt quite an accomplishment. If that resilience can continue through into this match with the Union they may have a fighting chance. Despite that, though, all the odds against them. The Union is at the top of the standing in the East while the Revolution currently occupies the lowest confines of the basement. I'm going with the Union.