Wednesday, October 12th
Chicago Fire - FC Dallas: These two have been going in opposite directions, FC Dallas towards the top of the league and suddenly dropping result after result and Chicago towards the cellar and suddenly climbing their way out with result after result. With that trend in mind, Chicago will certainly be the favorite in this match, especially playing at home.FC Dallas, however, will certainly be giving the Fire a fight. Though results haven't been going their way lately, Dallas has certainly been capable of holding their own. If fortune can turn in their favor, FC Dallas can win this match.
Vancouver Whitecaps - DC United: Last week, with a little help from some questionable calls, Vancouver did what no one expected that they would do: defeat Real Salt Lake. Sure Real Salt Lake has been in a nosedive lately, but their still one of the better teams in the league, there is a reason that they're in third place after all. Now Vancouver will be looking for a second consecutive victory in their new stadium, BC Place. DC has the best road record of the East, but they also have issues when it comes to consistency and lately it's been haunting them (recording only four points in they're last five matches). In the match against RSL, Tommy Soehn shuffled the line-up clearly to great success. If Vancouver continues with the new line-up and DC remains inconsistent, they should garner BC Place and their fans with another win.
Friday, October 14th
Colorado Rapids - Real Salt Lake: The second leg of the Rocky Mountain Cup will certainly be one to watch, both teams are in desperate need of a result. Real Salt Lake is in a slump only matched by that of FC Dallas, having lost four matches in a row, and as the season is coming to a close are getting more and more desperate to break free. Colorado was in a similar slump, but a recent victory over FC Dallas remedied their situation. Now, if the Rapids can get a win and other results go their way they can clinch a play-off berth this weekend and that will certainly provide a huge motivation for them. Without their captain RSL's chances are incredibly slim, as they've already proven. I say Colorado wins this one.
Saturday, October 15th
Sporting Kansas City - New York Red Bulls: The Red Bulls have seen somewhat of a resurgence lately, shuffling and bolstering up the defense. Not only were they able to defeat the LA Galaxy, they were able to keep a shutout and that speaks volumes. The key to this success is clearly the movement of Rafa Marquez from central defense to a defensive midfield role. While he still may have issues here and there, he has been thriving in his new role. Meanwhile SKC has continued to get results, consistently in that fight for the number one spot in the East. Speaking of placement, because they're sitting on forty three points, should the Red Bulls get a win they can jump ahead of SKC in the table which will certainly provide further motivation. New York has certainly improved lately, but SKC has proven their homefield advantage of Livestrong Sporting Park. SKC wins this one.
DC United - Chicago Fire: Both teams are on the outside looking in, in terms of making the playoff's. They are the only two teams remaining that don't hold a wildcard spot and still have a chance of sneaking in. Recent form for both sides, however, doesn't inspire confidence in their chances. DC is currently in the midst of a three game losing streak, while the Fire recent momentum seems to be sputtering to a halt. I think the key for DC in this one is regaining their primary cog in the offense, Dwayne De Rosario, after being absent for the last couple weeks due to World Cup qualifier duty with Canada. If DeRo can spark their offense, then DC stands a strong chance of winning. This has the makings for an entertaining match, and at the end of the day I see a team winning. Which one, though, is difficult to say.
FC Dallas - Vancouver Whitecaps: Recently FC Dallas has been in quite the slump, losing four in a row as well as being shut out four times in a row. If the result at Toyota Park earlier this week is any indicator, they've begun to turn things around. They finally managed to break the winning and scoring drought and take all three points in a 2-1 win over a fairly lifeless Chicago Fire. If the Whitecaps recent performances are any indicator, however, winning two straight may not be so easy. After shuffling the lineup, Tommy Soehn has obviously found a successful line-up as they've now managed two straight wins. Despite the Whitecaps' recent form, I think that Dallas has enough quality to get the win.
Seattle Sounders FC - San Jose Earthquakes: When it comes to the play-offs this match is all but meaningless. The Sounders have second place all but locked up and the Earthquakes have been eliminated from contention for a wildcard spot. This match does carry immense meaning in that it is Kasey Keller's last regular season home match, however. As a result, emotions will be high and a record crowd inexcess of 62,000 is expected. Seeing that they have nothing left to lose, and that Chris Wondolowski is still very much in the race for his second consecutive Golden Boot award San Jose has made it clear that their one primary objective tonight is to feed balls to Wondo's feet and hope he scores. Keller and the Sounders look to spoil those plans, surely aiming to maintain a clean-sheet to honor their captain and honor him, and their fans as well, even further with a victory. The imminent returns of Mauro Rosales and Alvaro Fernandez definitely bodes well for those hopes. The Sounders should easily win this one.
Sunday, October 16th
LA Galaxy - Chivas USA: The return leg of the SuperClasico doesn't bode well for Chivas USA, nor does their history in the rivalry. By and large season in and season out, the Galaxy have consistently won the two game series. Only once, in fact, do I believe Chivas has actually won the series. They do stand a chance to overturn the 1-0 result earlier in the season due to the Galaxy's weakened state (Donovan recovering from injury, Keane out for the next couple weeks), but the Galaxy's ability to consistently grind out results despite the absence of major players stands in the way of any hope that they might have. One only has to look to the Galaxy's match at Columbus a few weeks back that saw them without all three of their stars, Chad Barret getting the stoppage time game-winner after both teams had been deadlocked during regulation time. I'd be crazy not to favor the Galaxy in this match-up.
Showing posts with label MLS Predictions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MLS Predictions. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Friday, October 7, 2011
MLS Week 30 Predictions
Originally, this was going to be a league-wide bi-week to allow for lack of conflict with international fixtures. Therefore, all of this week's matches are those that have been re-scheduled due to issues surrounding to original date that they were supposed to be played.
Saturday, October 8th
New England Revolution - San Jose Earthquakes: The worst in the East facing one of the worst in the West, in a match with absolutely no play-off implications because both teams has been mathematically eliminated. I honestly can't pick one team over another, I can't see one having any merits over the other, so I'm calling a draw for this one.
Seattle Sounders FC - Philadelphia Union: The Sounders always find a way to win, whether at the end of an excruciatingly long road trip or if more than half of the usual starters have been rested. They proved that last week at New England, getting two big goals by Fredy Montero to get the comeback victory. Some think that this is a trap game for the Sounders after winning the US Open Cup final midweek, and that has definitely been said before, but that never proves true because of the quality of the team. Their opposition is Philadelphia, and after a lengthy winless streak seem to have regained their form lately, unbeaten in their last five matches. The two players of concern for the Union are Sebastian Le Toux, and their top GK Faryd Mondragon. After having a ho-hum first half of the season, Le Toux has found his form and has exploded from three goals scored to ten, and he will certainly be a threat tomorrow night. While Le Toux may be returning to form, Mondragon is returning to the line-up after getting his arm broken earlier in the season. Zac MacMath has been excellent for the Union, but having the experience of Mondragin back in goal again will certainly be a boost for the Union. Seeing the roll that they're on, and Fredy Montero's current form, the Sounders should have little trouble winning this one.
Saturday, October 8th
New England Revolution - San Jose Earthquakes: The worst in the East facing one of the worst in the West, in a match with absolutely no play-off implications because both teams has been mathematically eliminated. I honestly can't pick one team over another, I can't see one having any merits over the other, so I'm calling a draw for this one.
Seattle Sounders FC - Philadelphia Union: The Sounders always find a way to win, whether at the end of an excruciatingly long road trip or if more than half of the usual starters have been rested. They proved that last week at New England, getting two big goals by Fredy Montero to get the comeback victory. Some think that this is a trap game for the Sounders after winning the US Open Cup final midweek, and that has definitely been said before, but that never proves true because of the quality of the team. Their opposition is Philadelphia, and after a lengthy winless streak seem to have regained their form lately, unbeaten in their last five matches. The two players of concern for the Union are Sebastian Le Toux, and their top GK Faryd Mondragon. After having a ho-hum first half of the season, Le Toux has found his form and has exploded from three goals scored to ten, and he will certainly be a threat tomorrow night. While Le Toux may be returning to form, Mondragon is returning to the line-up after getting his arm broken earlier in the season. Zac MacMath has been excellent for the Union, but having the experience of Mondragin back in goal again will certainly be a boost for the Union. Seeing the roll that they're on, and Fredy Montero's current form, the Sounders should have little trouble winning this one.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
MLS Week 29 Predictions
Thursday, September 29th
Philadelphia Union - DC United: This will be an eastern conference showdown, the Union looking to extend their unbeaten streak and further press for higher placement in the table and DC will be looking to gain more ground in the fight for the last wild card spot. DC's confidence will definitely will be on a high, after last week's 4-1 drubbing of Real Salt Lake and De Rosario's record breaking performance. I expect this to be a closely contested match, so a draw wouldn't be all that surprising.
Saturday, October 1st
New England Revolution - Seattle Sounders FC: The stats say it all: 54 points to 27, fifteen wins to a paltry five, 49 goals scored to 32, and a +17 goal difference to -15. The Sounders have a clear statistical advantage over the New England Revolution. Another stat to throw in is the Sounders recent road record across all competitions, a remarkable 5-0-1. Not only that, the Sounders are tied with the LA Galaxy for the best overall road-record in the league at 7-3-5. Speaking of records, if their home record (4-4-5) is any indicator, the Revolution do stand a decent chance in this match. However, if the Sounders can avoid too much line-up shuffling (RSL went too far and they paid for it), they honestly should have very little trouble winning this one.
Colorado Rapids - FC Dallas: This is a rematch of sorts of last year's MLS Cup final, but that isn't the only factor that makes this match interesting. Both teams have taken a bit of a nose-dive as of late, FC Dallas taking only three out of fifteen points available in their last five matches and Colorado only claiming just two. Despite their recent slump, I believe that FC Dallas still have the capacity to win. The fact that they struck woodwork three separate times last weekend says that their offense is still their, but fortune simply has not been on their side. If a key player like Brek Shea can step up and the ball can finally bounce in their favor, this is a match that FC Dallas should win.
LA Galaxy - Real Salt Lake: Up until recently, this was looking to be one of the best match-ups of the weekend. Two contenders for the Supporter's Shield squaring off, but RSL's recent fortunes have just about eliminated them from contention for the best regular season record. They've drop two matches in a row now, conceding seven goals (two players even netting hat tricks) and to make matters worse they're captain, Kyle Beckerman, was red carded in their mid-week match against Chicago. Without Beckerman, RSL's chances at leaving the Home Depot Center with any sort of result is shrouded in doubt. RSL have proven themselves to be one of the league's best, but I don't think they have what it takes to break the Galaxy's home unbeaten run.
Columbus Crew - DC United: This is a must win match for both teams, who are both desperate to remain contenders in the play-off race. The Crew have been struggling lately, picking up only a single pint in their last five matches. They were able to hold the Galaxy off last weekend, until their distinct lack of the ability to finish came back to haunt them in the last minute of stoppage time when Chad Barret fed on a rebound from a saved Landon Donovan shot and scored the game-winner. On the other hand, DC has been a little inconsistent in the results that they've been getting but they have been winning games and picking up points. One can look no further than DC's 4-1 drubbing of Real Salt Lake last weekend to know what they are capable of doing. If DC can keep up the offense and Columbus continues their struggles in front of goal, DC will come away with all three points.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Portland Timbers: Last week the Sounders claimed the Cascadia Cup in their 3-1 victory in the final match at Empire Field, so there will be nothing to play for in this final Cascadia Derby but pride and points. Vancouver may be officially out of the play-off race after last weekend's loss, but the Timbers are very much in the middle of it, which gives the home side even more reason and conviction to win. Not only that, the Timbers poor road form (only one victory in fourteen matches) is encouraging for Vancouver's chances in this matches. If the Timbers' poor road form continues and Vancouver continues to play as good as they did last weekend against the Sounders, the Whitecaps easily have the victory in this one.
Philadelphia Union - DC United: This will be an eastern conference showdown, the Union looking to extend their unbeaten streak and further press for higher placement in the table and DC will be looking to gain more ground in the fight for the last wild card spot. DC's confidence will definitely will be on a high, after last week's 4-1 drubbing of Real Salt Lake and De Rosario's record breaking performance. I expect this to be a closely contested match, so a draw wouldn't be all that surprising.
Saturday, October 1st
New England Revolution - Seattle Sounders FC: The stats say it all: 54 points to 27, fifteen wins to a paltry five, 49 goals scored to 32, and a +17 goal difference to -15. The Sounders have a clear statistical advantage over the New England Revolution. Another stat to throw in is the Sounders recent road record across all competitions, a remarkable 5-0-1. Not only that, the Sounders are tied with the LA Galaxy for the best overall road-record in the league at 7-3-5. Speaking of records, if their home record (4-4-5) is any indicator, the Revolution do stand a decent chance in this match. However, if the Sounders can avoid too much line-up shuffling (RSL went too far and they paid for it), they honestly should have very little trouble winning this one.
Colorado Rapids - FC Dallas: This is a rematch of sorts of last year's MLS Cup final, but that isn't the only factor that makes this match interesting. Both teams have taken a bit of a nose-dive as of late, FC Dallas taking only three out of fifteen points available in their last five matches and Colorado only claiming just two. Despite their recent slump, I believe that FC Dallas still have the capacity to win. The fact that they struck woodwork three separate times last weekend says that their offense is still their, but fortune simply has not been on their side. If a key player like Brek Shea can step up and the ball can finally bounce in their favor, this is a match that FC Dallas should win.
LA Galaxy - Real Salt Lake: Up until recently, this was looking to be one of the best match-ups of the weekend. Two contenders for the Supporter's Shield squaring off, but RSL's recent fortunes have just about eliminated them from contention for the best regular season record. They've drop two matches in a row now, conceding seven goals (two players even netting hat tricks) and to make matters worse they're captain, Kyle Beckerman, was red carded in their mid-week match against Chicago. Without Beckerman, RSL's chances at leaving the Home Depot Center with any sort of result is shrouded in doubt. RSL have proven themselves to be one of the league's best, but I don't think they have what it takes to break the Galaxy's home unbeaten run.
Columbus Crew - DC United: This is a must win match for both teams, who are both desperate to remain contenders in the play-off race. The Crew have been struggling lately, picking up only a single pint in their last five matches. They were able to hold the Galaxy off last weekend, until their distinct lack of the ability to finish came back to haunt them in the last minute of stoppage time when Chad Barret fed on a rebound from a saved Landon Donovan shot and scored the game-winner. On the other hand, DC has been a little inconsistent in the results that they've been getting but they have been winning games and picking up points. One can look no further than DC's 4-1 drubbing of Real Salt Lake last weekend to know what they are capable of doing. If DC can keep up the offense and Columbus continues their struggles in front of goal, DC will come away with all three points.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Portland Timbers: Last week the Sounders claimed the Cascadia Cup in their 3-1 victory in the final match at Empire Field, so there will be nothing to play for in this final Cascadia Derby but pride and points. Vancouver may be officially out of the play-off race after last weekend's loss, but the Timbers are very much in the middle of it, which gives the home side even more reason and conviction to win. Not only that, the Timbers poor road form (only one victory in fourteen matches) is encouraging for Vancouver's chances in this matches. If the Timbers' poor road form continues and Vancouver continues to play as good as they did last weekend against the Sounders, the Whitecaps easily have the victory in this one.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
MLS Week 28 Predictions
Wednesday, September 21st
DC United - Chivas USA: These two recently met in the Home Depot Center, and DC United left the victors riding on a Charlie Davies hat trick and perhaps Chris Pontius' best performance of his career. This time around, however, DC will be without Pontius after losing him to a broken leg in the late stages of that very match. DC's recent performance without Pontius up in Seattle (ultimately losing 3-0) didn't exactly inspire confidence, but it must be kept in mind that important players like Quaranta and Hamid had to be benched with injuries for that match. If DC can get those two back, and Chivas continue's their run of mediocrity, they have a strong chance of getting a favorable result. Though far from guaranteed, DC should be able to win this one.
New York Red Bulls - Real Salt Lake: New York recently was able to break out of their nine match winless slump against an admittedly struggling FC Dallas, the main stories of that match being the glorious return of Luke Rodgers and the fact that the Red Bulls found some semblance of defensive form to hold of the pressure by Dallas to equalize. If New York can keep this going they certainly have a chance against the recently incredibly successful RSL, especially if RSL remains as offensively reserved as they were in last weekends match against Sporting KC. Seeing the current trend cursing teams playing against RSL, there is hope for New York if they can finish their chances. I think I'll side with New York for this one.
Portland Timbers - San Jose Earthquakes: Last weekend saw quite the shuffle for the last wildcard spot in the play-offs, new York stealing it from Portland who had stolen it from DC United. A win today is a must for the Timbers is they want to remain competitive in the play-off race, and they honestly should have little trouble getting one. First of all, San Jose poses very little of a threat. They're recent thirteen game winless streak says it all, sure they may have finally broken it, but that honestly means nothing to me. They're still incredibly mediocre and lacking, which brings me to my second point: Portland's tremendous home advantage. The Timbers can stay with the best of them in that stadium, and have no problem in steaming right past lesser teams (as demonstrated in the recent 3-0 victory over the Revolution). I'd be crazy not to side with the Timbers on this one.
Friday, September 23rd
Sporting Kansas City - Philadelphia Union: With the Columbus Crew, the current eastern conference leaders, take on the league-leading LA Galaxy with little hope of a victory, this match could very well ultimately decide who claims the top spot in the East once the weekend is over. SKC has been on a tear as of late, only falling to top teams in the West (Sounders, FC Dallas, RSL), continually making progress up the standings. The Union, on the other hand, have had some struggles having recently broken out of a nine game winless streak. SKC will be looking to continue winning, and the Union will be looking to reimpose their presence in the top of the East. This will definitely be one of the weekend's top matches to watch. SKC being the ones with the home advantage, I've got to side with them for the victory.
Saturday, September 24th
FC Dallas - Houston Dynamo: Lately FC Dallas hasn't seemed like the same team, struggling offensively thanks to multiple players absences and seeming absolutely exhausted due to schedule congestion. The Dynamo, on the other hand, have been on the rise. Sitting on thirty nine points, if they can win this match and if Columbus loses theirs, they can claim the top position in the East. The problem is Houston's absolutely horrid road form, being the only team besides the Whitecaps that are completely winless on the road. Despite that, I do believe that Houston do have a strong chance at winning this one.
DC United - Real Salt Lake: DC United were looking to be on their way to a second win over Chivas last Wednesday, but for some reason they just stopped playing and let Chivas draw level on a Juan Pablo Angel brace. Strangely, DC has performed better this season on the road than at home (5-5-4 to 3-3-7) going to show that they just don't have any sort of home field advantage. That is just going to make things a whole lot worse against RSL, who happens to be one of the league's hottest teams at the moment with five straight wins. While they may be getting one win after another, at least two of those wins (Sounders and New York) RSL was gifted each of their goals on mistakes and slip-ups on the other teams part and were truly either equals or otherwise dominated by the other team. That means if DC can refrain from making any errors that RSL can feed on and properly fend the western giant off, that they have a definite chance of getting something out of the match.
Columbus Crew - LA Galaxy: The top of the East hosting the top of the West should usually be the makings for an entertaining match, but seeing Columbus' current form I doubt they have much of a chance at holding off the Galaxy, let alone getting a win. Out of the last five matches the Crew have accumulated just four points to the Galaxy's thirteen, which gives overwhelming favor to the visitors. The Crew do have one potential advantage over the Galaxy, however. Road-wariness. The Galaxy are just coming off of a mid-week CONCACAF Champions League match down in Costa Rica that saw them get their second straight loss in the competition, having played every one of their star players and several of their other starters. If the Crew can take advantage of this potential wariness they have a chance at getting something out of this match, otherwise I see them continuing their slide.
New York Red Bulls - Portland Timbers: This is a battle for the final wildcard spot, the Red Bulls looking to reclaim it after getting it stolen from them earlier in the week after they lost and the Timber tied San Jose. The question is, who will be more mediocre? The Timber road form is among the worst in the league, and the Red Bulls have been falling apart at the seams lately thanks to very poor defensive shape and lack of team unity. I really think that the Red Bulls will continue their run of mediocrity, and despite poor road form this is a game that Portland has a high likelihood of winning.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Seattle Sounders FC: After last night's draw between SKC and the Union and the Sounders' and RSL's subsequent clinching of play-off berths, this match no longer has any major play-off implications for the Sounders. There is a major prize still left to play for, however, in the Cascadia Cup. With a win, the Sounders will be leaving Vancouver with some silverware. Despite the fact that the Whitecaps have the worst record in the league (having only 22 points from 28 games), they still harness some potent offensive threats in Hassli, Camilo, and Chumiento. If the Sounders can suppress the impact of those three, the match is as good as theirs.
DC United - Chivas USA: These two recently met in the Home Depot Center, and DC United left the victors riding on a Charlie Davies hat trick and perhaps Chris Pontius' best performance of his career. This time around, however, DC will be without Pontius after losing him to a broken leg in the late stages of that very match. DC's recent performance without Pontius up in Seattle (ultimately losing 3-0) didn't exactly inspire confidence, but it must be kept in mind that important players like Quaranta and Hamid had to be benched with injuries for that match. If DC can get those two back, and Chivas continue's their run of mediocrity, they have a strong chance of getting a favorable result. Though far from guaranteed, DC should be able to win this one.
New York Red Bulls - Real Salt Lake: New York recently was able to break out of their nine match winless slump against an admittedly struggling FC Dallas, the main stories of that match being the glorious return of Luke Rodgers and the fact that the Red Bulls found some semblance of defensive form to hold of the pressure by Dallas to equalize. If New York can keep this going they certainly have a chance against the recently incredibly successful RSL, especially if RSL remains as offensively reserved as they were in last weekends match against Sporting KC. Seeing the current trend cursing teams playing against RSL, there is hope for New York if they can finish their chances. I think I'll side with New York for this one.
Portland Timbers - San Jose Earthquakes: Last weekend saw quite the shuffle for the last wildcard spot in the play-offs, new York stealing it from Portland who had stolen it from DC United. A win today is a must for the Timbers is they want to remain competitive in the play-off race, and they honestly should have little trouble getting one. First of all, San Jose poses very little of a threat. They're recent thirteen game winless streak says it all, sure they may have finally broken it, but that honestly means nothing to me. They're still incredibly mediocre and lacking, which brings me to my second point: Portland's tremendous home advantage. The Timbers can stay with the best of them in that stadium, and have no problem in steaming right past lesser teams (as demonstrated in the recent 3-0 victory over the Revolution). I'd be crazy not to side with the Timbers on this one.
Friday, September 23rd
Sporting Kansas City - Philadelphia Union: With the Columbus Crew, the current eastern conference leaders, take on the league-leading LA Galaxy with little hope of a victory, this match could very well ultimately decide who claims the top spot in the East once the weekend is over. SKC has been on a tear as of late, only falling to top teams in the West (Sounders, FC Dallas, RSL), continually making progress up the standings. The Union, on the other hand, have had some struggles having recently broken out of a nine game winless streak. SKC will be looking to continue winning, and the Union will be looking to reimpose their presence in the top of the East. This will definitely be one of the weekend's top matches to watch. SKC being the ones with the home advantage, I've got to side with them for the victory.
Saturday, September 24th
FC Dallas - Houston Dynamo: Lately FC Dallas hasn't seemed like the same team, struggling offensively thanks to multiple players absences and seeming absolutely exhausted due to schedule congestion. The Dynamo, on the other hand, have been on the rise. Sitting on thirty nine points, if they can win this match and if Columbus loses theirs, they can claim the top position in the East. The problem is Houston's absolutely horrid road form, being the only team besides the Whitecaps that are completely winless on the road. Despite that, I do believe that Houston do have a strong chance at winning this one.
DC United - Real Salt Lake: DC United were looking to be on their way to a second win over Chivas last Wednesday, but for some reason they just stopped playing and let Chivas draw level on a Juan Pablo Angel brace. Strangely, DC has performed better this season on the road than at home (5-5-4 to 3-3-7) going to show that they just don't have any sort of home field advantage. That is just going to make things a whole lot worse against RSL, who happens to be one of the league's hottest teams at the moment with five straight wins. While they may be getting one win after another, at least two of those wins (Sounders and New York) RSL was gifted each of their goals on mistakes and slip-ups on the other teams part and were truly either equals or otherwise dominated by the other team. That means if DC can refrain from making any errors that RSL can feed on and properly fend the western giant off, that they have a definite chance of getting something out of the match.
Columbus Crew - LA Galaxy: The top of the East hosting the top of the West should usually be the makings for an entertaining match, but seeing Columbus' current form I doubt they have much of a chance at holding off the Galaxy, let alone getting a win. Out of the last five matches the Crew have accumulated just four points to the Galaxy's thirteen, which gives overwhelming favor to the visitors. The Crew do have one potential advantage over the Galaxy, however. Road-wariness. The Galaxy are just coming off of a mid-week CONCACAF Champions League match down in Costa Rica that saw them get their second straight loss in the competition, having played every one of their star players and several of their other starters. If the Crew can take advantage of this potential wariness they have a chance at getting something out of this match, otherwise I see them continuing their slide.
New York Red Bulls - Portland Timbers: This is a battle for the final wildcard spot, the Red Bulls looking to reclaim it after getting it stolen from them earlier in the week after they lost and the Timber tied San Jose. The question is, who will be more mediocre? The Timber road form is among the worst in the league, and the Red Bulls have been falling apart at the seams lately thanks to very poor defensive shape and lack of team unity. I really think that the Red Bulls will continue their run of mediocrity, and despite poor road form this is a game that Portland has a high likelihood of winning.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Seattle Sounders FC: After last night's draw between SKC and the Union and the Sounders' and RSL's subsequent clinching of play-off berths, this match no longer has any major play-off implications for the Sounders. There is a major prize still left to play for, however, in the Cascadia Cup. With a win, the Sounders will be leaving Vancouver with some silverware. Despite the fact that the Whitecaps have the worst record in the league (having only 22 points from 28 games), they still harness some potent offensive threats in Hassli, Camilo, and Chumiento. If the Sounders can suppress the impact of those three, the match is as good as theirs.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
MLS Week 27 Predictions
Wednesday, September 14th
Columbus Crew - Houston Dynamo: Starting with the 6-2 loss against the Sounders at Century Link the Crew have been in a bit of a nose-dive, losing the following match 4-2 to their rivals Toronto FC. The Dynamo have lost their last two matches as well, most recently the fell to Sporting Kansas City 3-0. This is a match with table placement implications, both teams in the top four standing to advance a position if they win. Due to the implications, this will be an interesting match. I think the Crew will continue on their nose dive, you don't concede ten goals in two matches if there isn't a clear issue with the defense. I think that the Dynamo will take advantage of that problematic defense.
Friday, September 16th
Portland Timbers - New England Revolution: Both teams got impressive results last weekend, Portland held the Union to a nil-nil draw and even more impressive, New England defeated one of the league's best (FC Dallas) by two goals to nil. Unfortunately I don't think that big win for the Revolution means very much, their still one of the worst teams in the league. Not only that, they'll be playing in the hostile environment of Jeld Wen. I say the Timbers take this one.
Saturday, September 17th
Philadelphia Union - Columbus Crew: The Union has yet to break it's winless streak, but last week's result against the Timbers can be seen as promising. The managed to play to a nil-nil draw, which seems to indicate that they've managed to patch up their of late leaky defense. The Crew are in a slump of their own, winless in three isn't all that concerning, but twelve goals conceded in three games is. If the Crew's defense doesn't get an adjustment, they'll find themselves less and less a favorite for the post season. I'm gonna go with a draw for this one.
FC Dallas - New York Red Bulls: Last weekend saw a pretty big upset, FC Dallas falling by two goals to one of the league's lesser teams in the Revolution. Their lack of any offensive punch in their midweek CCL match against Tauro doesn't inspire much confidence either. Notably, neither Brek Shea nor Marvin Chavez were in the eighteen on Wednesday, and there lies the problem. Those two account for a vast majority of Dallas' offensive output, and without both of them Dallas will no doubt continue to struggle. To their benefit, they're playing the Red Bulls this weekend, who haven't looked remotely dangerous for a couple months now. Despite being crippled without Shea or Chavez, I firmly believe that FC Dallas wins.
Seattle Sounders FC - DC United: This match has major play-off implications. The Sounders can't afford another loss, otherwise they may quite easily lose their grasp on second place. On the other hand, DC desperately needs another win to maintain their grasp on the last wildcard spot. History says that DC has the advantage, with a 3-3 tie in the Sounders inaugural season which saw them erase a three goal deficit and a 3-1 win last season that Chris Pontius played a major part in. Which brings up DC's main disadvantage, the loss of Pontius to a broken leg in the late stages of last week's match against Chivas. With seven goals and five assists Pontius has accounted for a major percentage of DC's offense throughout the season, and I have a feeling that DC are going to struggle without him despite having other big guns like De Rosario and Charlie Davies on the field. With the midweek 2-1 victory over Herediano I have a strong feeling that the Sounders are quickly bouncing back from last week's fluky loss to Real Salt Lake. I favor the Sounders in this one.
Real Salt Lake - Sporting Kansas City: RSL has been on a bit of a roll lately, recording three straight wins and climbing their way up the Western Conference, now literally breathing down the neck of FC Dallas with only a point's difference between the two. SKC has been on a roll as well, absolutely dominating with their new home advantage of Livestrong Sporting Park. Having just come off of a nine match home stand, I believe this is the first away match they've played in about two months. Seeing how well they've been playing lately I think they're up for it. RSL has the advantage of Rio Tinto, but I think SKC has what it takes.
Columbus Crew - Houston Dynamo: Starting with the 6-2 loss against the Sounders at Century Link the Crew have been in a bit of a nose-dive, losing the following match 4-2 to their rivals Toronto FC. The Dynamo have lost their last two matches as well, most recently the fell to Sporting Kansas City 3-0. This is a match with table placement implications, both teams in the top four standing to advance a position if they win. Due to the implications, this will be an interesting match. I think the Crew will continue on their nose dive, you don't concede ten goals in two matches if there isn't a clear issue with the defense. I think that the Dynamo will take advantage of that problematic defense.
Friday, September 16th
Portland Timbers - New England Revolution: Both teams got impressive results last weekend, Portland held the Union to a nil-nil draw and even more impressive, New England defeated one of the league's best (FC Dallas) by two goals to nil. Unfortunately I don't think that big win for the Revolution means very much, their still one of the worst teams in the league. Not only that, they'll be playing in the hostile environment of Jeld Wen. I say the Timbers take this one.
Saturday, September 17th
Philadelphia Union - Columbus Crew: The Union has yet to break it's winless streak, but last week's result against the Timbers can be seen as promising. The managed to play to a nil-nil draw, which seems to indicate that they've managed to patch up their of late leaky defense. The Crew are in a slump of their own, winless in three isn't all that concerning, but twelve goals conceded in three games is. If the Crew's defense doesn't get an adjustment, they'll find themselves less and less a favorite for the post season. I'm gonna go with a draw for this one.
FC Dallas - New York Red Bulls: Last weekend saw a pretty big upset, FC Dallas falling by two goals to one of the league's lesser teams in the Revolution. Their lack of any offensive punch in their midweek CCL match against Tauro doesn't inspire much confidence either. Notably, neither Brek Shea nor Marvin Chavez were in the eighteen on Wednesday, and there lies the problem. Those two account for a vast majority of Dallas' offensive output, and without both of them Dallas will no doubt continue to struggle. To their benefit, they're playing the Red Bulls this weekend, who haven't looked remotely dangerous for a couple months now. Despite being crippled without Shea or Chavez, I firmly believe that FC Dallas wins.
Seattle Sounders FC - DC United: This match has major play-off implications. The Sounders can't afford another loss, otherwise they may quite easily lose their grasp on second place. On the other hand, DC desperately needs another win to maintain their grasp on the last wildcard spot. History says that DC has the advantage, with a 3-3 tie in the Sounders inaugural season which saw them erase a three goal deficit and a 3-1 win last season that Chris Pontius played a major part in. Which brings up DC's main disadvantage, the loss of Pontius to a broken leg in the late stages of last week's match against Chivas. With seven goals and five assists Pontius has accounted for a major percentage of DC's offense throughout the season, and I have a feeling that DC are going to struggle without him despite having other big guns like De Rosario and Charlie Davies on the field. With the midweek 2-1 victory over Herediano I have a strong feeling that the Sounders are quickly bouncing back from last week's fluky loss to Real Salt Lake. I favor the Sounders in this one.
Real Salt Lake - Sporting Kansas City: RSL has been on a bit of a roll lately, recording three straight wins and climbing their way up the Western Conference, now literally breathing down the neck of FC Dallas with only a point's difference between the two. SKC has been on a roll as well, absolutely dominating with their new home advantage of Livestrong Sporting Park. Having just come off of a nine match home stand, I believe this is the first away match they've played in about two months. Seeing how well they've been playing lately I think they're up for it. RSL has the advantage of Rio Tinto, but I think SKC has what it takes.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
MLS Week 26 Predictions
Friday, September 9th
LA Galaxy - Colorado Rapids: This is one of the weekend's matches to watch. If the Galaxy fails to win and the Sounders manage to win their own match against RSL, their grip on the number one position on the western conference and the league overall will slip even further. And a win for the Galaxy will definitely be well deserved, as the Rapids have proven themselves as true contenders for the MLS Cup. I have a difficult time picking sides in this one, so I'll settle with a tie.
Saturday, September 10th
Seattle Sounders FC - Real Salt Lake: Along with the match-up between LA and Colorado, this is one of the weekend's most important games to watch. The Sounders are looking to continue to make up ground on LA in the race for the Supporter's Shield, and so is RSL. This is a match that the Sounders must win, and seeing their white hot August they're definitely the favorites to win this one. Especially with RSL's recent road woes, with the exception of the win at the Home Depot Center against a struggling and inconsistent Chivas. My vote is with the Sounders.
Sporting Kansas City - Houston Dynamo: Recently Sporting Kansas has had issues when it came to closing out matches, allowing both the Sounders and FC Dallas to make late stoppage time comebacks to win the match. While they have issues closing out matches late, they've also developed a habit of making their own late comebacks as well, the latest and perhaps greatest coming against the league-leading LA Galaxy last Monday. SKC has certainly proven that they have what it takes to go toe-to-toe with the league's best, and past those two losses against the Sounders and FC Dallas they are unbeaten at home. I honestly don't believe that Houston will be any real threat, especially with the return of Kei Kamara and Teal Bunbury.
New York Red Bulls - Vancouver Whitecaps: While New York has fallen out of favor in the playoff race lately, they look primed to make or at least attempt one final push with the possible return of Luke Rodgers this weekend. Past that, the Whitecaps are honestly no real threat on the road. Up until this point, the Whitecaps have a 0-10-4 record on the road. That isn't about to change this weekend.
Philadelphia Union - Portland Timbers: The Union has become stuck in somewhat of a rut, having gone winless in the last seven matches. They have certainly shown signs of life, however, in their midweek match against the New England Revolution. Entering the second half the Union was shockingly down 4-1 to the Revolution, but they managed to claw their way back thanks to Freddy Adu's first MLS goal since 2007 and a two goal effort by Sebastian Le Toux. The Timbers have been the third worst this season on the road, and the Union remains at large at home. The Union should be able to get the victory.
New England Revolution - FC Dallas: New England's mediocrity was really put on display on their midweek match against the Union. They were up 4-1 heading into the second half, and due to a mentality of simply defending and holding on for dear life their unsurprisingly choked up the three goal lead. This is an easy prediction in all honesty, FC Dallas has the win without any shred of a doubt.
LA Galaxy - Colorado Rapids: This is one of the weekend's matches to watch. If the Galaxy fails to win and the Sounders manage to win their own match against RSL, their grip on the number one position on the western conference and the league overall will slip even further. And a win for the Galaxy will definitely be well deserved, as the Rapids have proven themselves as true contenders for the MLS Cup. I have a difficult time picking sides in this one, so I'll settle with a tie.
Saturday, September 10th
Seattle Sounders FC - Real Salt Lake: Along with the match-up between LA and Colorado, this is one of the weekend's most important games to watch. The Sounders are looking to continue to make up ground on LA in the race for the Supporter's Shield, and so is RSL. This is a match that the Sounders must win, and seeing their white hot August they're definitely the favorites to win this one. Especially with RSL's recent road woes, with the exception of the win at the Home Depot Center against a struggling and inconsistent Chivas. My vote is with the Sounders.
Sporting Kansas City - Houston Dynamo: Recently Sporting Kansas has had issues when it came to closing out matches, allowing both the Sounders and FC Dallas to make late stoppage time comebacks to win the match. While they have issues closing out matches late, they've also developed a habit of making their own late comebacks as well, the latest and perhaps greatest coming against the league-leading LA Galaxy last Monday. SKC has certainly proven that they have what it takes to go toe-to-toe with the league's best, and past those two losses against the Sounders and FC Dallas they are unbeaten at home. I honestly don't believe that Houston will be any real threat, especially with the return of Kei Kamara and Teal Bunbury.
New York Red Bulls - Vancouver Whitecaps: While New York has fallen out of favor in the playoff race lately, they look primed to make or at least attempt one final push with the possible return of Luke Rodgers this weekend. Past that, the Whitecaps are honestly no real threat on the road. Up until this point, the Whitecaps have a 0-10-4 record on the road. That isn't about to change this weekend.
Philadelphia Union - Portland Timbers: The Union has become stuck in somewhat of a rut, having gone winless in the last seven matches. They have certainly shown signs of life, however, in their midweek match against the New England Revolution. Entering the second half the Union was shockingly down 4-1 to the Revolution, but they managed to claw their way back thanks to Freddy Adu's first MLS goal since 2007 and a two goal effort by Sebastian Le Toux. The Timbers have been the third worst this season on the road, and the Union remains at large at home. The Union should be able to get the victory.
New England Revolution - FC Dallas: New England's mediocrity was really put on display on their midweek match against the Union. They were up 4-1 heading into the second half, and due to a mentality of simply defending and holding on for dear life their unsurprisingly choked up the three goal lead. This is an easy prediction in all honesty, FC Dallas has the win without any shred of a doubt.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
MLS Week 24 Predictions
Saturday, August 27th
Seattle Sounders FC - Columbus Crew: This is definitely one of the weekend's best matches, the best in the east faces one of the best in the west. Seeing the Sounders latest victories, both 1-0 results against FC Dallas and Mexico giants Monterrey, their confidence is without a doubt on a high. The same could be said of Columbus, who have been quite hot recently, winning four out of their last five matches. While they may be number one in the east, Columbus' road record doesn't exactly reflect a top of the table team at a measly 3-6-3. One other thing to note is the Sounders' domination over the Crew, having gone 2-0-3 in all competitions against them. With those facts in mind, I'd say the Sounders get all three points. Considering Columbus' road record and the fact that the Sounders' defense has only conceded two goals in their past six games, the Sounders should have this one no problem.
Sporting Kansas City - FC Dallas: Along with the match up between the Sounders and the Crew, this one to watch. Since having the home advantage of Livestrong Sporting Park SKC has definitely been the team to beat, and only one has managed that feat so far (the Sounders). Also noteworthy with this match-up is SKC's 4-1 drubbing of Dallas at Pizza Hut Park earlier this season. Dallas will definitely be on the hunt for redemption against SKC. This is a tough one to call, both have been fantastic sides as of late. I'm gonna settle with a draw.
Chivas USA - Real Salt Lake: Out of their last five matches, Real Salt Lake have lost a whopping four of them. After a strong start to the season it seems that RSL is beginning to sputter and fall short. Head coach Jason Kreis even went so far as to guarantee wholesale changes next season if things don't turn around before it's too late. RSL's primary issues seem to the absence of key playmaker Javier Morales and the inexperience of younger players. While RSL has been on a down turn lately, they're still in contention for a spot in the play-offs. And a spot in the play-offs is exactly what Chivas is hunting for. They could have made great progress last week, but their lack of consistency haunted them and ultimately saw them fall to the Portland Timbers. While both teams have had their struggles lately, I'd say that RSL gets all three points in this one.
Seattle Sounders FC - Columbus Crew: This is definitely one of the weekend's best matches, the best in the east faces one of the best in the west. Seeing the Sounders latest victories, both 1-0 results against FC Dallas and Mexico giants Monterrey, their confidence is without a doubt on a high. The same could be said of Columbus, who have been quite hot recently, winning four out of their last five matches. While they may be number one in the east, Columbus' road record doesn't exactly reflect a top of the table team at a measly 3-6-3. One other thing to note is the Sounders' domination over the Crew, having gone 2-0-3 in all competitions against them. With those facts in mind, I'd say the Sounders get all three points. Considering Columbus' road record and the fact that the Sounders' defense has only conceded two goals in their past six games, the Sounders should have this one no problem.
Sporting Kansas City - FC Dallas: Along with the match up between the Sounders and the Crew, this one to watch. Since having the home advantage of Livestrong Sporting Park SKC has definitely been the team to beat, and only one has managed that feat so far (the Sounders). Also noteworthy with this match-up is SKC's 4-1 drubbing of Dallas at Pizza Hut Park earlier this season. Dallas will definitely be on the hunt for redemption against SKC. This is a tough one to call, both have been fantastic sides as of late. I'm gonna settle with a draw.
Chivas USA - Real Salt Lake: Out of their last five matches, Real Salt Lake have lost a whopping four of them. After a strong start to the season it seems that RSL is beginning to sputter and fall short. Head coach Jason Kreis even went so far as to guarantee wholesale changes next season if things don't turn around before it's too late. RSL's primary issues seem to the absence of key playmaker Javier Morales and the inexperience of younger players. While RSL has been on a down turn lately, they're still in contention for a spot in the play-offs. And a spot in the play-offs is exactly what Chivas is hunting for. They could have made great progress last week, but their lack of consistency haunted them and ultimately saw them fall to the Portland Timbers. While both teams have had their struggles lately, I'd say that RSL gets all three points in this one.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
MLS Week 23 Predictions
Saturday, August 20th
New England Revolution - New York Red Bulls: Previously I would have easily sided with the Red Bulls for the victory, but in the past couple of months they have become a completely different complete. While they are still higher in the standings than the Revolution, they are no longer at the top of the table and that's a result of their struggles recently. I don't see the Revolution pulling out a win, so I'm gonna side with yet another draw for the Red Bulls.
FC Dallas - Seattle Sounders FC: This has without a doubt got to be the weekends largest game. Only one point separates these teams, Dallas with forty three and the Sounders with forty two, and a victory for either hands them second place in the western conference and the standings overall. Also possibly at risk here is the battle to catch the LA Galaxy in the race for the Supporter's Shield, with so few games left in the season this could be make or break for either team in their push to get past the Galaxy. Two elements complicating the matter is the sweltering heat (predicted ninety six degrees at kick off) and the fact that both teams are coming off mid-week Champions League matches. Dallas clearly has the advantage when it comes to heat, but the Sounders may have the advantage when it comes having all of their key players rested up and ready, having played mostly reserve players in their match against Comunicaciones while Dallas elected to field all of their starters against Pumas UNAM down in Mexico. This is definitely a close and highly contested match, but with the advantage of having rested starters and a incredibly strong bench once exhaustion becomes a factor, think that the Sounders can do it.
Portland Timbers - Vancouver Whitecaps: The competition for the Cascadia Cup is beginning to heat up. Unlike the Sounders, who at this point have pretty much guaranteed themselves a spot in the play-offs, the Timbers (7-12-5, 26 Pts) have just the slightest of chances of making it into the play-offs and the Whitecaps (3-12-9, 18 Pts) have no hope at all of making it into the post season and thus have only the Cascadia Cup to fight for, as well as their pride. And in this match pride is certainly one of the major motivating factors for victory, the rivalry between the two dates all the way back to the NASL days in the seventies. As is customary with rivalry matches, all previous form can be taken and thrown out the window. Despite that, I have a strong feeling that the Timbers are gonna win this.
LA Galaxy - San Jose Earthquakes: One of the leagues strongest versus one of the leagues weakest. The Galaxy recently held a fourteen game unbeaten streak, while the Earthquakes currently hold an eleven game winless streak. Each have new strikers that they are certainly hoping will make a difference, the Galaxy with Robbie Keane and te Earthquakes with Edmundo Zora. All things considered, unless the Earthquake can pull off some miraculous the Galaxy have these three points in the bag.
New England Revolution - New York Red Bulls: Previously I would have easily sided with the Red Bulls for the victory, but in the past couple of months they have become a completely different complete. While they are still higher in the standings than the Revolution, they are no longer at the top of the table and that's a result of their struggles recently. I don't see the Revolution pulling out a win, so I'm gonna side with yet another draw for the Red Bulls.
FC Dallas - Seattle Sounders FC: This has without a doubt got to be the weekends largest game. Only one point separates these teams, Dallas with forty three and the Sounders with forty two, and a victory for either hands them second place in the western conference and the standings overall. Also possibly at risk here is the battle to catch the LA Galaxy in the race for the Supporter's Shield, with so few games left in the season this could be make or break for either team in their push to get past the Galaxy. Two elements complicating the matter is the sweltering heat (predicted ninety six degrees at kick off) and the fact that both teams are coming off mid-week Champions League matches. Dallas clearly has the advantage when it comes to heat, but the Sounders may have the advantage when it comes having all of their key players rested up and ready, having played mostly reserve players in their match against Comunicaciones while Dallas elected to field all of their starters against Pumas UNAM down in Mexico. This is definitely a close and highly contested match, but with the advantage of having rested starters and a incredibly strong bench once exhaustion becomes a factor, think that the Sounders can do it.
Portland Timbers - Vancouver Whitecaps: The competition for the Cascadia Cup is beginning to heat up. Unlike the Sounders, who at this point have pretty much guaranteed themselves a spot in the play-offs, the Timbers (7-12-5, 26 Pts) have just the slightest of chances of making it into the play-offs and the Whitecaps (3-12-9, 18 Pts) have no hope at all of making it into the post season and thus have only the Cascadia Cup to fight for, as well as their pride. And in this match pride is certainly one of the major motivating factors for victory, the rivalry between the two dates all the way back to the NASL days in the seventies. As is customary with rivalry matches, all previous form can be taken and thrown out the window. Despite that, I have a strong feeling that the Timbers are gonna win this.
LA Galaxy - San Jose Earthquakes: One of the leagues strongest versus one of the leagues weakest. The Galaxy recently held a fourteen game unbeaten streak, while the Earthquakes currently hold an eleven game winless streak. Each have new strikers that they are certainly hoping will make a difference, the Galaxy with Robbie Keane and te Earthquakes with Edmundo Zora. All things considered, unless the Earthquake can pull off some miraculous the Galaxy have these three points in the bag.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
MLS Week 22 Predictions
Saturday, August 11th
Sounders FC - Chivas USA: While Chivas USA aren't exactly among the best in the league, they're definitely not among the worst. Head coach Robin Fraser has definitely really turned things around since last season, when Chivas finished in the basement of the standings. The two threats to be wary of are recently returned Alejandro Moreno who is on goal scoring form, and recent MLS All Star Nick LaBrocca who is having a career season with seven goals and four assists so far. Only two teams have been able to leave Century Link field this season with all three points, those two teams being the LA Galaxy and FC Dallas who happen to be the only two teams currently above the Sounders in the standings. Not only that, both also only won on a 1-0 scoreline. The Sounders may have been faltering as of late, but they have found their winning form once again with two straight wins against San Francisco and a brilliant late comeback against the formerly 14-match undefeated Sporting kansas City. With the possible return of three starting-quality players (Brad Evans, Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, and O'Brian White), this match is looking very good for the Sounders. The Sounders should have no problem winning this one.
Toronto FC - Real Salt Lake: When Toronto made the visit to Rio Tinto earlier this season, Real Salt Lake had very little trouble in leaving the match with a win. Recently RSL has endured two straight losses, and while they snapped that with a 3-0 victory over the Red Bulls, a victory over the Red Bulls these days doesn't exactly say as much as it used to. Not only that, Toronto has been looking much stronger and much more dangerous in the past couple of weeks. Granted they have only been recording draws, but those draws certainly say a lot. Aron Winter has been rebuilding TFC, and seeing these recent improvements I'd certainly say he's close to finishing. Whether or not that makes a difference against a very strong RSL is the question. I'm gonna play it safe and side with RSL on this one.
New York Red Bulls - Chicago Fire: Lately the Red Bulls have been in a nose dive. They certainly started the season strong, but with their serious lack of depth and creative ability at times in the midfield they're starting to look more than a little lackluster. Their complete disregard for the US Open Cup is looking pretty foolish at this rate, as their no longer guaranteed a place in the play-off's if they continue on the track that they're on and if they do make it, they're certainly not going to make it very far. The results haven't been going Chicago's way throughout the season, but that figure can be deceiving. Regardless to the number of wins that they have, Chicago is a very good team and will certainly give a struggling Red Bulls a very good challenge. i think this one will end in a draw.
Philadelphia Union - FC Dallas: The second best in the east faces off with the second best in the west. There are two keys to this match-up: new Philadelphia signing Freddy Adu and FC Dallas' Brek Shea. It's no secret that the Union have been experiencing scoring woes, and could Adu be the remedy for these woes? His recent return to favor with the US national team syas that it just might be. Speaking of the national team, Brek Shea had a fantastic recent performance in the recent friendly against Mexico. There is no doubt that he is one of the best that the MLS currently has to offer, but he's been kinda quiet lately in the MLS. If he pick up his scoring form once again, FC Dallas should have little trouble in leaving PPL Park with all three points.
Sounders FC - Chivas USA: While Chivas USA aren't exactly among the best in the league, they're definitely not among the worst. Head coach Robin Fraser has definitely really turned things around since last season, when Chivas finished in the basement of the standings. The two threats to be wary of are recently returned Alejandro Moreno who is on goal scoring form, and recent MLS All Star Nick LaBrocca who is having a career season with seven goals and four assists so far. Only two teams have been able to leave Century Link field this season with all three points, those two teams being the LA Galaxy and FC Dallas who happen to be the only two teams currently above the Sounders in the standings. Not only that, both also only won on a 1-0 scoreline. The Sounders may have been faltering as of late, but they have found their winning form once again with two straight wins against San Francisco and a brilliant late comeback against the formerly 14-match undefeated Sporting kansas City. With the possible return of three starting-quality players (Brad Evans, Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, and O'Brian White), this match is looking very good for the Sounders. The Sounders should have no problem winning this one.
Toronto FC - Real Salt Lake: When Toronto made the visit to Rio Tinto earlier this season, Real Salt Lake had very little trouble in leaving the match with a win. Recently RSL has endured two straight losses, and while they snapped that with a 3-0 victory over the Red Bulls, a victory over the Red Bulls these days doesn't exactly say as much as it used to. Not only that, Toronto has been looking much stronger and much more dangerous in the past couple of weeks. Granted they have only been recording draws, but those draws certainly say a lot. Aron Winter has been rebuilding TFC, and seeing these recent improvements I'd certainly say he's close to finishing. Whether or not that makes a difference against a very strong RSL is the question. I'm gonna play it safe and side with RSL on this one.
New York Red Bulls - Chicago Fire: Lately the Red Bulls have been in a nose dive. They certainly started the season strong, but with their serious lack of depth and creative ability at times in the midfield they're starting to look more than a little lackluster. Their complete disregard for the US Open Cup is looking pretty foolish at this rate, as their no longer guaranteed a place in the play-off's if they continue on the track that they're on and if they do make it, they're certainly not going to make it very far. The results haven't been going Chicago's way throughout the season, but that figure can be deceiving. Regardless to the number of wins that they have, Chicago is a very good team and will certainly give a struggling Red Bulls a very good challenge. i think this one will end in a draw.
Philadelphia Union - FC Dallas: The second best in the east faces off with the second best in the west. There are two keys to this match-up: new Philadelphia signing Freddy Adu and FC Dallas' Brek Shea. It's no secret that the Union have been experiencing scoring woes, and could Adu be the remedy for these woes? His recent return to favor with the US national team syas that it just might be. Speaking of the national team, Brek Shea had a fantastic recent performance in the recent friendly against Mexico. There is no doubt that he is one of the best that the MLS currently has to offer, but he's been kinda quiet lately in the MLS. If he pick up his scoring form once again, FC Dallas should have little trouble in leaving PPL Park with all three points.
Friday, August 5, 2011
MLS Week 21 Predictions
Friday, August 5th
Colorado Rapids - Columbus Crew: After a fairly inconsistent start to the season, and having to bear through several injuries Colorado certainly seems to have found their stride. The loss of Connor Casey is no doubt a potentially crippling one, but putting former-Sounder Sanna Nyassi seems to have done the trick for the struggling team. On the other hand, Columbus has been quietly creeping into the upper ranks all season consistently getting results, and as a consequence they are now currently sitting at the top of the Eastern conference. Both teams in their current form are not to be underestimated, and thus this is definitely looking to be a hard-fought match. I'll side with Columbus on this one, especially after their 4-1 thumping of Colorado earlier in the season.
Saturday, August 6th
Sporting Kansas City - Seattle Sounders FC: One team, SKC, has been on quite the hot streak. After Wednesday's 2-0 defeat of RSL they have run their unbeaten streak to 14, and their new home Livestrong Sporting Park clearly has had a major hand in that success. The Sounders, on the other hand, recently had their unbeaten streak ended at the hands of the Houston Dynamo after a strenuous and exhausting road trip that involved going all the way down to Panama. Now after having spent some precious time at home and a mid-week CONCACAF Champions League victory over San Francisco FC, the Sounders will definitely be looking to embark on another unbeaten streak. Sure SKC is unbeaten in fourteen games, but keep in mind that the majority of those matches ended in a draw (more often than not in dramatic fashion, as well) so they're far from untouchable. Perhaps it bias, but I call the Sounders for this one.
Real Salt Lake - New York Red Bulls: Leading into this match RSL is on a two game skid, falling to both the Columbus Crew and Sporting Kansas City to two goals and a shutout. Things are starting to look pretty dire for RSL, and head coach Jason Kreis has made it very clear that this match is a must win. Their opponent definitely hasn't had the greatest record lately, only managing to muster a few wins amongst a majority of draws and losses. Despite lacks of success in the league, the Red Bulls managed to win the Emirates Cup over in England with a win over PSG and a draw with Arsenal. While that success certainly will aid in the teams confidence, I think they will need a lot more than just bolstered confidence to leave Rio Tinto with a victory. I heavily favor RSL on this one.
LA Galaxy - FC Dallas: This weekend seems to be chock full of games to keep an eye on, and this is without a doubt one of them. The two tops teams in the West, and in the league overall, are facing off. The factor that really plays into this one are the Galaxy's recent loss and blanking against the Portland Timbers. With the performance they gave at Jeld-Wen they certainly didn't look like the league's best to offer. In light of that, they are certainly going to be looking to redeem themselves though that won't be any easy task against FC Dallas. This is another close one, but if the Galaxy can find their form again they shouldn't have too much trouble in dealing with FCD.
Colorado Rapids - Columbus Crew: After a fairly inconsistent start to the season, and having to bear through several injuries Colorado certainly seems to have found their stride. The loss of Connor Casey is no doubt a potentially crippling one, but putting former-Sounder Sanna Nyassi seems to have done the trick for the struggling team. On the other hand, Columbus has been quietly creeping into the upper ranks all season consistently getting results, and as a consequence they are now currently sitting at the top of the Eastern conference. Both teams in their current form are not to be underestimated, and thus this is definitely looking to be a hard-fought match. I'll side with Columbus on this one, especially after their 4-1 thumping of Colorado earlier in the season.
Saturday, August 6th
Sporting Kansas City - Seattle Sounders FC: One team, SKC, has been on quite the hot streak. After Wednesday's 2-0 defeat of RSL they have run their unbeaten streak to 14, and their new home Livestrong Sporting Park clearly has had a major hand in that success. The Sounders, on the other hand, recently had their unbeaten streak ended at the hands of the Houston Dynamo after a strenuous and exhausting road trip that involved going all the way down to Panama. Now after having spent some precious time at home and a mid-week CONCACAF Champions League victory over San Francisco FC, the Sounders will definitely be looking to embark on another unbeaten streak. Sure SKC is unbeaten in fourteen games, but keep in mind that the majority of those matches ended in a draw (more often than not in dramatic fashion, as well) so they're far from untouchable. Perhaps it bias, but I call the Sounders for this one.
Real Salt Lake - New York Red Bulls: Leading into this match RSL is on a two game skid, falling to both the Columbus Crew and Sporting Kansas City to two goals and a shutout. Things are starting to look pretty dire for RSL, and head coach Jason Kreis has made it very clear that this match is a must win. Their opponent definitely hasn't had the greatest record lately, only managing to muster a few wins amongst a majority of draws and losses. Despite lacks of success in the league, the Red Bulls managed to win the Emirates Cup over in England with a win over PSG and a draw with Arsenal. While that success certainly will aid in the teams confidence, I think they will need a lot more than just bolstered confidence to leave Rio Tinto with a victory. I heavily favor RSL on this one.
LA Galaxy - FC Dallas: This weekend seems to be chock full of games to keep an eye on, and this is without a doubt one of them. The two tops teams in the West, and in the league overall, are facing off. The factor that really plays into this one are the Galaxy's recent loss and blanking against the Portland Timbers. With the performance they gave at Jeld-Wen they certainly didn't look like the league's best to offer. In light of that, they are certainly going to be looking to redeem themselves though that won't be any easy task against FC Dallas. This is another close one, but if the Galaxy can find their form again they shouldn't have too much trouble in dealing with FCD.
Friday, July 29, 2011
MLS Week 20 Predictions
Friday, July 29th
Philadelphia Union - Colorado Rapids: The best in the east hosts the defending MLS Cup champion. The Rapids have had moderate success thus far in the season, but definitely have not been too deserving of the title best of the MLS. This will no doubt be a closely contested match, however. I call a tie on this one.
Saturday, July 30th
Vancouver Whitecaps - LA Galaxy: This isn't too hard of a game to predict. The Galaxy is so far the league's best this season and the Whitecaps are the polar opposite, being the league's absolute worst. The Galaxy should, unless they're afflicted by their recent scoring woes, win this match handily.
Houston Dynamo - Sounders FC: While the Sounders still have their hot streak in the regular season, they are coming off two recent defeats at the hands of the mighty Manchester United and their foes in the CCL qualifications Panama's San Francisco FC. Both losses are simple anomalies that should only be ignored, the circumstances of both matches ultimately held the Sounders from success. That said, the Sounders are definitely looking to continue their unbeaten streak and winning form against a fairly disappointing and inconsistent Houston Dynamo side. The one challenge for the Sounders in this match will be the extremely hot weather in that region of the country of late. If they can make it past that obstacle they are the team most likely to win.
Sporting Kansas City - New England Revolution: SKC is one of the hottest teams in Major League Soccer of late, and the Revolution so far have only found itself in yet another season full of struggle and disappointment. SKC should easily win this, especially with the mighty home advantage of Livestrong Sporting Park.
Portland Timbers - Toronto FC: Earlier in the season Toronto was able to earn a rare victory over the Timbers at BMO Field. Portland, however, is the team that now has the home advantage and while they haven't exactly had the most success lately Toronto is without a doubt one of the league's worst. With the advantage of Jeld-Wen the Timbers should have little trouble in downing TFC.
Philadelphia Union - Colorado Rapids: The best in the east hosts the defending MLS Cup champion. The Rapids have had moderate success thus far in the season, but definitely have not been too deserving of the title best of the MLS. This will no doubt be a closely contested match, however. I call a tie on this one.
Saturday, July 30th
Vancouver Whitecaps - LA Galaxy: This isn't too hard of a game to predict. The Galaxy is so far the league's best this season and the Whitecaps are the polar opposite, being the league's absolute worst. The Galaxy should, unless they're afflicted by their recent scoring woes, win this match handily.
Houston Dynamo - Sounders FC: While the Sounders still have their hot streak in the regular season, they are coming off two recent defeats at the hands of the mighty Manchester United and their foes in the CCL qualifications Panama's San Francisco FC. Both losses are simple anomalies that should only be ignored, the circumstances of both matches ultimately held the Sounders from success. That said, the Sounders are definitely looking to continue their unbeaten streak and winning form against a fairly disappointing and inconsistent Houston Dynamo side. The one challenge for the Sounders in this match will be the extremely hot weather in that region of the country of late. If they can make it past that obstacle they are the team most likely to win.
Sporting Kansas City - New England Revolution: SKC is one of the hottest teams in Major League Soccer of late, and the Revolution so far have only found itself in yet another season full of struggle and disappointment. SKC should easily win this, especially with the mighty home advantage of Livestrong Sporting Park.
Portland Timbers - Toronto FC: Earlier in the season Toronto was able to earn a rare victory over the Timbers at BMO Field. Portland, however, is the team that now has the home advantage and while they haven't exactly had the most success lately Toronto is without a doubt one of the league's worst. With the advantage of Jeld-Wen the Timbers should have little trouble in downing TFC.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
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.
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.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Match Prediction: Portland Timbers - Seattle Sounders
Being aired on ESPN, past the first meeting of these two teams, this is the MLS match of the season that is an absolute must watch. The stakes and expected energy of the match itself and animosity of the Timbers' fans will certainly make for one crazy match, one that should be of much higher quality of play than their last meeting at Qwest Field where everything was slogged down by a downpour of rain. Leading into this match the Sounders are undefeated in seven while the Timber haven't been able to win in six, but in a derby match like this those runs mean next to nothing. The three points are all there for the taking for both teams. That said, past form does have a factor. The Timbers have a crippling reliance on set pieces to score goals and also a crippling weakness when it comes to defending set pieces earned by their opponents. If the Sounders can limit set piece opportunities on goal for the Timbers, their incredibly strong back line should be able to hold off any attempts by the Timbers through the run of play. The question then is, who will step up and find the back of the net for the Sounders? As of late, just about every player on the field has scored (13 different players have scored so far this season, in fact) so that shouldn't be too much of a concern, though past Roger Levesque's brace against the Red Bulls a couple of weeks ago, the Sounders' forwards have had trouble being a threat on goal. This is definitely the perfect opportunity for Fredy Montero, or even Levesque to spite the Timbers Army, to step up and change that. Regarding past form, the Sounders should have this in the bag. But, this is a derby after all and anything can happen.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
MLS Week 17 Predictions
Wednesday, July 6th
New York Red Bulls - Toronto FC: Leading into this match New York has not recorded a win in eleven regular season matches, struggling due to a roster depleted by injuries and the Gold Cup and spotty and inconsistent goal keeping. Most would think this to be the match to break that winless streak, especially with the imminent return of Luke Rodgers, but Toronto is beginning to heat up after regular season and NCC cup final victories over fellow Canadian rivals the Vancouver Whitecaps. They have also proven that they can fight back against the league's best in an entertaining 2-2 draw with the LA Galaxy that saw two goals in stoppage time from both teams. This is a difficult one to call, so I'll settle with a tie.
Sporting Kansas City - Colorado Rapids: After a dreadfully long road trip to start the season Kansas City has really started to gets results and begin climbing their way up the table, going undefeated in their last ten and recording four wins out of their last five matches. Colorado on the other hand hasn't exactly been performing up to expectations so far this season having gone six matches at home with finding a win. The return of the pairing of Omar Cummings and Conner Casey, however, should go a long ways towards bringing them back into winning ways. Regardless, Kansas City is arguably the hottest team in Major League Soccer at the moment and I really don't see Colorado getting in the way of that.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Columbus Crew: The Whitecaps are by the worst team so far this season, having only managed two wins in the first half of the season and having the lowest points total at fourteen points. At this point the Whitecaps' situation is looking pretty hopeless unless head coach Tommy Soehn can orchestrate a major turn around which is doubtful seeing how literally nothing changed when he became head coach in favor of Teitur Thordarson. Their opponent meanwhile is proving to be a strong contender for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Columbus should easily be able to top the Whitecaps.
New York Red Bulls - Toronto FC: Leading into this match New York has not recorded a win in eleven regular season matches, struggling due to a roster depleted by injuries and the Gold Cup and spotty and inconsistent goal keeping. Most would think this to be the match to break that winless streak, especially with the imminent return of Luke Rodgers, but Toronto is beginning to heat up after regular season and NCC cup final victories over fellow Canadian rivals the Vancouver Whitecaps. They have also proven that they can fight back against the league's best in an entertaining 2-2 draw with the LA Galaxy that saw two goals in stoppage time from both teams. This is a difficult one to call, so I'll settle with a tie.
Sporting Kansas City - Colorado Rapids: After a dreadfully long road trip to start the season Kansas City has really started to gets results and begin climbing their way up the table, going undefeated in their last ten and recording four wins out of their last five matches. Colorado on the other hand hasn't exactly been performing up to expectations so far this season having gone six matches at home with finding a win. The return of the pairing of Omar Cummings and Conner Casey, however, should go a long ways towards bringing them back into winning ways. Regardless, Kansas City is arguably the hottest team in Major League Soccer at the moment and I really don't see Colorado getting in the way of that.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Columbus Crew: The Whitecaps are by the worst team so far this season, having only managed two wins in the first half of the season and having the lowest points total at fourteen points. At this point the Whitecaps' situation is looking pretty hopeless unless head coach Tommy Soehn can orchestrate a major turn around which is doubtful seeing how literally nothing changed when he became head coach in favor of Teitur Thordarson. Their opponent meanwhile is proving to be a strong contender for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Columbus should easily be able to top the Whitecaps.
Friday, July 1, 2011
MLS Week 16 Predictions
Saturday, July 2nd
Portland Timbers - Sporting Kansas City: Initially it seemed that the Timbers may defy the curse of the expansion team much like the Sounders did, but their reliance on set pieces to score is beginning to be their downfall. In the run of play their attack has almost been non-existent, strikers Kenny Cooper and Jorge Perlaza often do not seem to be on the same page as well a lack of any play-making ability in the midfield. Sporting Kansas City, on the other hand, has been quite successful lately recording three precious wins in their last five matches and having gone undefeated in seven. Their defense is really starting to step up and their attack is gaining ever increasing momentum. Kansas City should have no problem leaving Jeld-Wen with a win.
Sunday, July 3rd
Colorado Rapids - Houston Dynamo: After a decent start to the season, lately the Rapids haven't been performing like the winning team that they were last season. One can't help but wince while watching the highlights of Columbus' 4-1 drubbing of the rapids last week. Three of Columbus' four goals were as a result of soft giveaways in the back, and it's not only those giveaways that's making them suffer either. The Rapids have also managed to lose a striker in both matches due to reckless challenges and their subsequent red cards. If Colorado continues breaking down in the back and losing their attacking players there is no where to go but down for them. Houston haven't exactly had the best form lately either though, recording only one win in their last five matches. Seeing last week's performance by the Rapids Im gonna have to favor the Dynamo for this one.
Monday, July 4th
LA Galaxy - Seattle Sounders: This is a big game for the Sounders for two reasons: the Galaxy is a team that they just have not been able to win against lately, and with a victory here they could become serious contenders for the Supporters Shield by being just a lone point below the Galaxy in the standings. Notably, last weekend saw the Galaxy losing both of their primary keepers (Ricketts to a broken arm, and Saunders a red card) which definitely gives the Sounders the advantage and the most opportune time in which to shake off that monkey thats been on their shoulders when it comes to facing the Galaxy. However, despite having to field a rookie keeper the Galaxy is still a very strong team offensively as well as defensively which assures that a victory will not come easily. I really can't say what the result will be, though on the Sounders current form and the fact that they lost to the Galaxy in the season opener only on a 1-0 scoreline (the Galaxy getting a wonder goal to get the win as well) certainly says that they're more than capable of competing with the Galaxy. Maybe it's because I'm biased, but I'm gonna say that the Sounders leave LA with a victory.
Real Salt Lake - New England Revolution: RSL has proven that they are one of the top teams in the league, and while they have gone through somewhat of a offensive dry spell lately, the return of Alvaro Saborio from Gold Cup duty has already proven beneficial to their attack as proven in their 3-1 victory over Toronto FC in which he netted a brace. Meanwhile New England hasn't won a match since early May and despite their efforts they just cannot get things to turn in their favor, and this match with RSL certainly doesn't strike me as the one for fortune to finally shine upon them. RSL has got this one.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
MLS Week 15 Predictions
Thursday, June 23rd
Seattle Sounders - New York Red Bulls: Having lost only once in their past eight games and leaving BMO field with a late winning goal from the foot of Fredy Montero, I'd say that the Sounders are prime and ready for their rematch with a Red Bulls decimated do to several Gold Cup call ups of it's starters, injury to Luke Rodgers, and Thierry Henry red card ejection last week against the Timbers. That doesn't mean that the Red Bulls offense is completely lacking, they've recently received both Dane Richards and Dwayne De Rosario back after both their national teams got eliminated from the Gold Cup. Maybe I'm a little biased, but I'm calling this one in Seattle's favor.
Saturday, June 25th
San Jose Earthquakes - LA Galaxy: Up until last weekend the Earthquakes had been on something of a hot streak but fell against an emerging Sporting Kansas side thanks largely to lack of ability to finish (seemingly a very common problem these day among MLS teams). The Galaxy has also been on their own hot streak lately, having gone un-defeated in their last eight games even going so far as to pull out a 3-1 victory of the Colorado Rapids last week missing almost all of their star players. The Galaxy is without a doubt going to maintain their winning streak.
FC Dallas - Portland Timbers: Despite a late comeback, when FC Dallas met the Timbers up at JELD-WEN earlier this season, they couldn't draw level and ultimately fell to the Timbers. In this rematch look for the Timbers to continue their poor road form and winless streak and for FC Dallas to continue re-building their momentum after the drubbing they received by Sporting Kansas a few weeks back.
Sporting Kansas City - Vancouver Whitecaps: After an awful 1-6-3 start to the season Sporting Kansas are really beginning to turn things around, recording two wins within their last three games and advancing their current undefeated streak. Sporting Kansas aren't the only ones actively turning their season around, after the firing of head coach Teitur Thordarson the Whitcaps have begun to show signs of life, rescuing a 2-2 draw against the Sounders off of a beautiful volley by Eric Hassli and recording just theit second win of the season last week against the Philadelphia Union. This is a close one, but I'm gonna have to side with Sporting Kansas due to the home advantage they have in Livestrong Sporting Park.
Real Salt Lake - Toronto FC: RSL hasn't exactly had the best of form lately, managing only draws after their loss against the Columbus Crew. Toronto has been performing much worse, however, having not won in nine matches. Seeing as RSL has the advantage of the fortress that is Rio Tinto behind them, they wil no doubt take all three points.
Seattle Sounders - New England Revolution: The Revolution has the most losses of any MLS team so far this season (7), with three of them coming in their last five games. Meanwhile the Sounders have lost only once within their last eight games and have one of the best goal differentials of the league, having allowed more than one goal only on three occasions. The Revolution should pose very little threat to the Sounders.
Seattle Sounders - New York Red Bulls: Having lost only once in their past eight games and leaving BMO field with a late winning goal from the foot of Fredy Montero, I'd say that the Sounders are prime and ready for their rematch with a Red Bulls decimated do to several Gold Cup call ups of it's starters, injury to Luke Rodgers, and Thierry Henry red card ejection last week against the Timbers. That doesn't mean that the Red Bulls offense is completely lacking, they've recently received both Dane Richards and Dwayne De Rosario back after both their national teams got eliminated from the Gold Cup. Maybe I'm a little biased, but I'm calling this one in Seattle's favor.
Saturday, June 25th
San Jose Earthquakes - LA Galaxy: Up until last weekend the Earthquakes had been on something of a hot streak but fell against an emerging Sporting Kansas side thanks largely to lack of ability to finish (seemingly a very common problem these day among MLS teams). The Galaxy has also been on their own hot streak lately, having gone un-defeated in their last eight games even going so far as to pull out a 3-1 victory of the Colorado Rapids last week missing almost all of their star players. The Galaxy is without a doubt going to maintain their winning streak.
FC Dallas - Portland Timbers: Despite a late comeback, when FC Dallas met the Timbers up at JELD-WEN earlier this season, they couldn't draw level and ultimately fell to the Timbers. In this rematch look for the Timbers to continue their poor road form and winless streak and for FC Dallas to continue re-building their momentum after the drubbing they received by Sporting Kansas a few weeks back.
Sporting Kansas City - Vancouver Whitecaps: After an awful 1-6-3 start to the season Sporting Kansas are really beginning to turn things around, recording two wins within their last three games and advancing their current undefeated streak. Sporting Kansas aren't the only ones actively turning their season around, after the firing of head coach Teitur Thordarson the Whitcaps have begun to show signs of life, rescuing a 2-2 draw against the Sounders off of a beautiful volley by Eric Hassli and recording just theit second win of the season last week against the Philadelphia Union. This is a close one, but I'm gonna have to side with Sporting Kansas due to the home advantage they have in Livestrong Sporting Park.
Real Salt Lake - Toronto FC: RSL hasn't exactly had the best of form lately, managing only draws after their loss against the Columbus Crew. Toronto has been performing much worse, however, having not won in nine matches. Seeing as RSL has the advantage of the fortress that is Rio Tinto behind them, they wil no doubt take all three points.
Seattle Sounders - New England Revolution: The Revolution has the most losses of any MLS team so far this season (7), with three of them coming in their last five games. Meanwhile the Sounders have lost only once within their last eight games and have one of the best goal differentials of the league, having allowed more than one goal only on three occasions. The Revolution should pose very little threat to the Sounders.
Friday, June 17, 2011
MLS Week 14 Predictions
Friday, June 17th
Sporting Kansas City - San Jose Earthquakes: Kansas City hasn't had the best record so far this season and San Jose may be on a recent hot streak, especially after last week's 4-2 victory over DC United, but last week's 4-1 drubbing of an on form FC Dallas away from home and the advantage provided by the recently opened Livestrong Sporting Park should provide enough to lift Kansas City over San Jose.
Saturday, June 18th
Toronto FC - Seattle Sounders: Toronto has been struggling, and while they valiantly salvaged a draw last week at the Home Depot Center against the LA Galaxy I doubt that'll make all that much difference against an on form Sounders looking for a win.
Colorado Rapids - LA Galaxy: This is an interesting match-up, last season's supporter shield winner against last season's cup winners. Despite losing key players to Gold Cup duty the Galaxy are still hot, and though the Rapids broke through their dry steak of draws last weekend with a stoppage time victory over the Portland Timbers the Galaxy have the clear advantage.
Real Salt Lake - DC United: RSL may not exactly be the beast that they once were, but they still represent a sizable threat especially within the confines of Rio Tinto. I say they continue on renewing their home unbeaten streak against DC.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Philadelphia Union: Vancouver's Shea Salinas, formerly of Philadelphia, stated that his new club would top his old one with a 3-1 scoreline. That seems like wishful thinking to me. Faryd Mondragon is arguably on of the league's top goal keepers and apart from Real Salt Lake claim one of the lowest number of goals allowed in the league. Vancouver are showing signs of bouncing back from their fourteen game winless streak, though. I'm gonna have to go with a draw.
Sunday, June 19th
Portland Timbers - New York Red Bulls: Recently the Timbers having been looking more and more like the expansion team that they are despite following closely in the Sounders' footsteps in bucking that trend early in the season. Their last three results have been losses, two of them coming at home. A lack of production up front and an over reliance on set pieces will ultimately be their demise. While it will undoubtedly be a struggle, New York definitely has this one.
Sporting Kansas City - San Jose Earthquakes: Kansas City hasn't had the best record so far this season and San Jose may be on a recent hot streak, especially after last week's 4-2 victory over DC United, but last week's 4-1 drubbing of an on form FC Dallas away from home and the advantage provided by the recently opened Livestrong Sporting Park should provide enough to lift Kansas City over San Jose.
Saturday, June 18th
Toronto FC - Seattle Sounders: Toronto has been struggling, and while they valiantly salvaged a draw last week at the Home Depot Center against the LA Galaxy I doubt that'll make all that much difference against an on form Sounders looking for a win.
Colorado Rapids - LA Galaxy: This is an interesting match-up, last season's supporter shield winner against last season's cup winners. Despite losing key players to Gold Cup duty the Galaxy are still hot, and though the Rapids broke through their dry steak of draws last weekend with a stoppage time victory over the Portland Timbers the Galaxy have the clear advantage.
Real Salt Lake - DC United: RSL may not exactly be the beast that they once were, but they still represent a sizable threat especially within the confines of Rio Tinto. I say they continue on renewing their home unbeaten streak against DC.
Vancouver Whitecaps - Philadelphia Union: Vancouver's Shea Salinas, formerly of Philadelphia, stated that his new club would top his old one with a 3-1 scoreline. That seems like wishful thinking to me. Faryd Mondragon is arguably on of the league's top goal keepers and apart from Real Salt Lake claim one of the lowest number of goals allowed in the league. Vancouver are showing signs of bouncing back from their fourteen game winless streak, though. I'm gonna have to go with a draw.
Sunday, June 19th
Portland Timbers - New York Red Bulls: Recently the Timbers having been looking more and more like the expansion team that they are despite following closely in the Sounders' footsteps in bucking that trend early in the season. Their last three results have been losses, two of them coming at home. A lack of production up front and an over reliance on set pieces will ultimately be their demise. While it will undoubtedly be a struggle, New York definitely has this one.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
MLS Week 13 Predictions
Thursday, June 9th
Kansas City - Chicago Fire: Up until this week Kanas City has been on a ten game road trip, and their results certainly showed it. The Fire haven't been doing so well either, but with new head coach Frank Klopas they're playing with newfound motivation. This is definitely a hard one to call, but I'm gonna favor with Kansas City and hope they finally start to get their season on track with their much belated home opener.
Saturday, June 11th
Philadelphia Union - Real Salt Lake: After an unsuccessful first season in MLS, Philadelphia has really picked things up. Currently they sit at first in the eastern conference, and there is definitely a reason for that. While they haven't exactly had the best goal production, their defense has been solid to make up for it. Meanwhile Real Salt Lake, while still definitely a powerhouse to be reckoned with, have been struggling lately at the hands of injury and Gold Cup duty. They managed to cough up a lead earlier this evening at Crew Stadium, and lost their home unbeaten streak a couple weeks back to the Sounders. This is another close one so I'll settle with a tie.
Portland Timbers - Colorado Rapids: The Timbers' first match this season was against the Rapids, and they fell to the Cup champions 3-0. Being at home and having lost two straight now certainly seems motivation for the Timbers to win this one.
LA Galaxy - Toronto FC: Honestly, not much prediction is involved on this one. LA Galaxy have continued to the beast that they are and Toronto has done nothing so far this year but struggle. Not only that, but the Galaxy has the home advantage as well. I'm calling the Galaxy.
Seattle Sounders - Vancouver Whitecaps: There is plenty of excitement around this game, the Sounders and the Whitecaps being historic rivals. Just like Chicago last week, Vancouver recently dismissed their head coach and their technical director has assumed coaching duties. So far, unfortunately for Vancouver, the change has proven to have any impact on the team's ability to get a result. With that, the Sounders recent good run of play, and the Sounders victory against the Whitecaps in the reserves league earlier this week factored in, I'm going to side with the Sounders.
Kansas City - Chicago Fire: Up until this week Kanas City has been on a ten game road trip, and their results certainly showed it. The Fire haven't been doing so well either, but with new head coach Frank Klopas they're playing with newfound motivation. This is definitely a hard one to call, but I'm gonna favor with Kansas City and hope they finally start to get their season on track with their much belated home opener.
Saturday, June 11th
Philadelphia Union - Real Salt Lake: After an unsuccessful first season in MLS, Philadelphia has really picked things up. Currently they sit at first in the eastern conference, and there is definitely a reason for that. While they haven't exactly had the best goal production, their defense has been solid to make up for it. Meanwhile Real Salt Lake, while still definitely a powerhouse to be reckoned with, have been struggling lately at the hands of injury and Gold Cup duty. They managed to cough up a lead earlier this evening at Crew Stadium, and lost their home unbeaten streak a couple weeks back to the Sounders. This is another close one so I'll settle with a tie.
Portland Timbers - Colorado Rapids: The Timbers' first match this season was against the Rapids, and they fell to the Cup champions 3-0. Being at home and having lost two straight now certainly seems motivation for the Timbers to win this one.
LA Galaxy - Toronto FC: Honestly, not much prediction is involved on this one. LA Galaxy have continued to the beast that they are and Toronto has done nothing so far this year but struggle. Not only that, but the Galaxy has the home advantage as well. I'm calling the Galaxy.
Seattle Sounders - Vancouver Whitecaps: There is plenty of excitement around this game, the Sounders and the Whitecaps being historic rivals. Just like Chicago last week, Vancouver recently dismissed their head coach and their technical director has assumed coaching duties. So far, unfortunately for Vancouver, the change has proven to have any impact on the team's ability to get a result. With that, the Sounders recent good run of play, and the Sounders victory against the Whitecaps in the reserves league earlier this week factored in, I'm going to side with the Sounders.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
MLS Week 12 Predictions
Looking at the upcoming schedule and thinking to myself who may win or lose each match-up and thinking about a similar practice by Extra Time Radio, I got inspired to begin a weekly write-up of my predictions of the upcoming weekends matches. So, here goes:
Wednesday, June 1st
Friday, June 3rd
Saturday, June 4th
Wednesday, June 1st
- Chivas USA - Vancouver Whitecaps: Chivas USA has been showing promise lately and Vancouver hasn't been able to manage getting a result since opening night. I say this one goes to Chivas.
Friday, June 3rd
- LA Galaxy - DC United: United are coming of an impressive victory at Jeld-Wen, but the Galaxy are too much of an unstoppable beast. The Galaxy has this one.
Saturday, June 4th
- Toronto FC - Kansas City: This match marks the end of Kansas City's ten game road-trip, and while both teams are currently struggling I'm gonna pull for Kansas City and say they end their long and harsh road trip on a positive note.
- Chicago Fire - Seattle Sounders: Much the same as Vancouver, Chicago has failed to produce much of a result since their first couple matches. I don't see any changes with this match up, especially with the Sounders hot off a victory at the fortress of Rio Tinto. I'm gonna say the Sounders have this one.
- Real Salt Lake - Vancouver: After having the Sounders end their over two year long home unbeaten streak last week RSL is definitely looking to get back on track, and Vancouver should be just the opponent for them to do that.
- Colorado Rapids - Philadelphia Union: Both teams have had their offensive struggles, though the Union's 6-2 victory over Toronto FC is a definite confidence booster. Colorado is still a great team, though. I'm gonna say this one ends with a tie.
- Portland Timbers - Chivas USA: Having DC break their home unbeaten run last week should prove plenty of encouragement for the Timbers to top Chivas. They just need to avoid predictability and make an effort to score goals through open play, not just through set pieces which is one of the key reasons why DC was able to pull off a win.
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