Great day of soccer yesterday, and an equally great day today. Here are my Sunday MLS previews, something I threw together while watching Manchester United complete an epic comeback over Aston Villa.
I don't like them, but they're champions for a reason.
Let's hope MLS can provide us with at least one game half as good as that one was.
Previews after the jump.
Chicago Fire v. New York Red Bulls
The Fire start their 2009 home campaign after a disappointing tie with DC United last week. Four points in two games is a decent enough start, though the Fire's dismantling of FC Dallas seems less impressive after a rather pedestrian performance at RFC Stadium. The Red Bulls come off tie of their own, a 1-1 draw with New England at Giants Stadium. The loss of Dave Van Den Bergh looks to be having a desultory effect on the Red Bulls attack, as they've failed to score in two matches. MVP favorite Juan Pablo Angel hasn't had much help, something that must change if New York is going to be a playoff contender.
Chicago is bound to press hard to start, and I don't know that New York is up to the challenge. New York does have a few key players coming back from injury, which should help them stay in the match for most of the ninety minutes.
More importantly, will New York actually score?
I'll throw them a bone.
Prediction:
Chicago 2 New York 1
Kansas City Wizards v. San Jose Earthquakes
Kansas City two losses on the ledger in 2009, and hosting San Jose might be their chance to breakthrough with a win. Davy Arnaud is still questionable with a neck strain, and his participation would be a major boost for the Wizards. San Jose failed to score in a week one loss to New England, then put three past the Dynamo to get their first win last week. The Earthquakes will obviously need a performance like the latter to beat KC on the road. With the Wizards injury concerns, Hirsig and Lopez will need to carry the attack; I expect a high scoring game in this one, as neither side seem to be settled in the back.
Prediction:
Kansas City 2 San Jose 2
Chivas USA v. Columbus Crew
Chivas has won twice to start the season, and Columbus will be playing for the second time in four days. Smells like disaster brewing for the Crew, who will also be reinserting players back from international duty. Chivas is brimming with confidence, though beating Colorado and Dallas might not be the most impressive resume to this point. Chivas is also dealing with injuries, and may not be able to keep up their form without the influence of Razov and Jazic. Columbus was demoralized at RSL on Thursday, and will certainly be looking to make amends for a poor performance. Expect a lot of energy from Hejduk and company. The Crew may not have looked like it to this point, but their still champions, and my gut says they play well tonight.
Prediction:
Chiva USA 1 Columbus 2
