Football Preview Pridiction Highlights

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Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: Montreal Impact vs Columbus Crew Predictions

A lot has changed since the Andy Gruenebaum and the Crew shutout the Montreal Impact in Columbus back on March 24, but the team will carry the confidence from that victory into this weekend's match in Montreal.

Montreal Impact Preview

The Impact is coming off three straight losses. In that span, Jesse Marsch's side has been outscored 9-1. Montreal's lone goal of that tough stretch came in Wednesday night's 3-1 loss at Stade Saputo to Sporting KC.

"Hopefully we come out strong. It's something we did well (against RSL on 6/30)," Gaven said. "We'll try to get all over them early and hopefully if we do that, it will kind of kill their spirit a little bit and we'll score a few goals. We're just going to try to build off what we did last game and hopefully do the same thing up there."

"We can get an idea of how they want to play us and how they play at home from video of the game they played last night," echoed Gruenebaum.

Columbus Crew Preview

The Crew could have up to 26 players available for selection on Sunday as Chad Marshall, Dilly Duka, and Carlos Mendes have all participated in training this week as they hope to return from injuries. In addition, new signing Jairo Arrieta will make his debut in Black & Gold against the Impact.

The added bodies in training have sparked competition amonst the team as players fight for spots in the starting XI.

"(Competition) is always going to make us better. Everybody is fighting for spots, Gaven explained. "We've got some guys coming back from injury. It's going to push everybody harder, which is going to make our team better as a whole."

Added Gruenebaum, "When you breed competition in training, it makes everything better. It makes everybody's decision harder as a coaching staff to pick the starting XI."

The man in charge of choosing that starting XI, head coach Robert Warzycha, says his lineup will depend on what combination he feels will be most effective against this week's opponent, the Montreal Impact.

"We're going to play a little bit (in training) and figure out what's best against Montreal," Warzycha said. "Sometimes, the team that you play against determines who you're going to put on the field. The best matchup is going to be key to the match."

Montreal Impact vs Columbus Crew Predictions: 1-1 Draw

If it weren’t for the injuries of Columbus I would have it 2-1 for the Crew. But, with the combination of injuries and the poor play of Montreal this goes down as a tie.

Original Source: Montreal Impact vs Columbus Crew

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Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: New England Revolution vs New York Red Bulls Predictions

A calm and straightforward victory over New York on Sunday night would provide a welcome respite for New England after the late drama over the past two weekends.

New England Revolution Preview

While the Revs will take the two points collected after scoring two 94th minute equalizers in 2-2 draws against Toronto FC and Seattle over the past fortnight, they would like to secure a win in a more simplistic manner against the Red Bulls, according to midfielder Benny Feilhaber.

“We got a goal early in the [Seattle] game,” Feilhaber told MLSsoccer.com. “We just couldn't hold the lead. It's good to see us fight for that long – into the 94th minute for the second game in a row. But I'm hoping we don't have to keep it that late every game.”

Revolution coach Jay Heaps believes the path toward a positive and ultimately mundane result starts by cutting out the defensive errors that have marred the past couple of games. All four goals conceded over the past two matches have occurred in a fairly similar fashion – cross from the left wing, header in the middle – and have left Heaps to lament how those letdowns marred otherwise solid defensive performances.

New York Red Bulls Preview

The Red Bulls will certainly provide a stiff test at the back with its preference to operate through the wide areas and its potent attacking options, but the internal emphasis on cutting out those mistakes at the back must take precedence, according to Heaps.

“For us, we feel that we have to work on ourselves right now,” Heaps said. “We feel like we're giving away games right now. We've won a couple of games in the past, but, since then, we've gotten back into giving away games and giving away points. We have to focus on ourselves. When they get here, we need to do the things that we do well: move the ball quickly, get in behind and make it difficult for them to play.”

Heaps will hope to have Kevin Alston (left hamstring tightness), Jerry Bengston (awaiting visa and ITC clearance after his transfer from Honduran side C.D. Motagua), Shalrie Joseph (left knee strain), Jose Moreno (left ankle sprain) and Kelyn Rowe (concussion) available to help the Revs accomplish those tasks and extend their season-high four-match unbeaten run with a victory.

“It's just important because teams are kind of drawing away from us a little bit in the playoff spots,” Feilhaber said. “We have to stay with the pack. In order to do that, we have to start getting three points, especially at home.”

New England Revolution vs New York Red Bulls Predictions: New York wins 2-1

Home or away the Red Bulls show why they are the better team. New York’s pressure and attack on the defense will continue to be a problem for New England. New England’s injuries will also hinder them from even getting a chance to get the victory over New York.

Original Source: New England Revolution vs New York Red Bulls

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Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: Toronto FC vs Philadelphia Union Predictions

Two of the worst cases in the League will clash on the 8th of July 9.

Toronto FC Preview

Currently, Toronto FC is at the basement of the Eastern Conference rankings. The team so far, has a total of 10 points with sixteen games. Out of the sixteen games already played this season, Toronto has only two wins with ten losses and four draws. The good news, they’re going up against Philadelphia Union this Sunday, July 8. Why the good news? Well, the Union is not too far ahead of Toronto in record performance this year meaning they can catch up. Toronto hasn't lost in five straight, enjoying a noticeable upgrade in form under new coach Paul Mariner.

What Toronto needs to strengthen their defences and push up on their attack mode. The team has already let in a total of 30 goals from previous opponents in the last sixteen games which is pretty alarming. The Union is better at defense than most teams in the East but have a slightly weaker attack when compared to Toronto.

Philadelphia Union Preview

With a total of 14 points from fifteen games played which has a current record of four wins, nine losses and two draws, the Union is in a way, equal against their up-coming opponents Toronto FC. What the Union has where Toronto is lacking however, is the defense the team possess. Looking at the currents stats of the Eastern Conference teams, Philly has a better defensive record, even against the current top players, DC United.

However, Toronto has no losses from their five previous games while Philadelphia has three losses with only two victories. The opposing team is now able to hold up against higher ranking teams as of late therefor Philadelphia Union needs to improve their attack.

Toronto FC vs Philadelphia Union Predictions: 1-1 Draw

Predicting a draw goes to show how closely similar both teams are when it comes to their statistics. Although Toronto seemed to show more promise now than let’s say, five games ago, both teams are still on the equal.

Original Source: Toronto FC vs Philadelphia Union

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Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: Chicago Fire vs Los Angeles Galaxy Predictions

East meets West as Chicago and LA collide on July 9.

Chicago Fire Preview

The Fire seems to be on the right track disregarding the draw against Houston last July 3rd. In the Eastern conference, they have a number 4 ranking with eight wins, five losses and four ties tallying a total of 28 points. Being in the top five can prove a lot for any time even if being pitted against a group from the Western counterpart. Their most recent loss came about on June 2 against New England but the preceding matches were in Chicago’s favour as they beat then number 1 New York Bulls.

But defence is a major problem for the Fire. Letting 19 goals from their last 17 games indicate a weak protection for the team. Going up against a team like the Los Angeles Galaxy and taking control of the game requires a lot of good defence especially with the Galaxy’s current record of 26 goals out of the previous 18 matches played so far this season.

Los Angeles Galaxy Preview

The LA Galaxy, as of now are ranked at number 6 in the Western Conference with six wins, ten losses, and two draws raking in a total of 20 points. In the beginning of the season despite some challenges, things seemed pretty much promising for Beckham and the boys. But after two losses in a row, the latest being against Philadelphia with 1-2 on the Fourth of July and before that was with San Jose with 4-3 and was dubbed one of the greatest games of the season, LA is obviously have some trouble and might be headed for a downward spiral. Now, LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham was given a one-game suspension and fined an undisclosed amount by the Disciplinary Committee for his provocative behaviour following the Galaxy’s 4-3 loss to San Jose on June 30.

Without Beckham, the team needs to get their act together and focus. Mike Magee will probably deputize in the midfield and they need to maintain their power of attack against a strong team such as the Chicago Fire.

Chicago Fire vs Los Angeles Galaxy Predictions: Chicago Fire wins 1-0

Sure, the Galaxy is strong in both areas, defense and attack. But the Fire as an ace up their sleeve in the form of Marco Pappa. If he is able to continue his exceptional form in midfield, the Fire should rebound on Sunday.

Original Source: Chicago Fire vs Los Angeles Galaxy

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Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: FC Dallas vs Toronto FC Predictions

FC Dallas Preview

FCD is 3-4-2 at home, scoring 8 goals, allowing 9 goals. Their form is 0-2-4, scoring 6 goals, allowing 10 goals. Overall, FC Dallas (3-3-2) opened a stretch of six games in 21 days with Saturday's scoreless draw against D.C. United. Kevin Hartman finished with three saves - including two at close range against Charlie Davies - to help Dallas push its unbeaten streak to three (2-0-1).

They are currently 17th in the Major League Soccer and we are expecting them to score 1.38 goals in this game. They are 2-7 over/under 2.5 goals at home and 2-8 in their last 10 home games. FCD will still be without star striker and reigning league MVP David Ferreira (fractured ankle) for that stretch.

Toronto FC Preview

The Reds are currently in 3rd place in the Eastern conference 1-1-5 away, scoring 11 goals, allowing 16 goals. Their form is 2-3-1, scoring 10 goals, allowing 8 goals. Overall, Toronto FC is in a uptrend status after winning 1.50 points per game compared to their normal 0.80 average. They are currently 19th in the Major League Soccer and we are expecting them to score 1.48 goals in this game. Their current ELO rating is 1296.4 compared to 1386.7 10 matches ago. They are 6-1 over/under 2.5 goals away and 8-2 in their last 10 away games.

FC Dallas vs Toronto FC Predictions: 1-1 Draw

The Canadians will be hosting FCD in which we can expect both teams being happy with walking away with a point. I expect this to be a close encounter between the 2 teams.

Original Source: FC Dallas vs Toronto FC


Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: Montreal Impact vs Sporting KC Predictions

Montreal Impact Preview

The Impact is 4-2-2 at home, scoring 15 goals, allowing 11 goals. Their form is 2-0-4, scoring 11 goals, allowing 14 goals. Overall, Montreal Impact is in a downtrend status after winning 1.00 points per game compared to their normal 1.37 average. They are currently 15th in the Major League Soccer and we are expecting them to score 1.65 goals in this game. Their current ELO rating is 1369.6 compared to 1436.0 10 matches ago. They are 5-3 over/under 2.5 goals at home and 5-5 in their last 10 homegames.

Sporting KC Preview

Sporting KC is 3-2-3 away, scoring 9 goals, allowing 11 goals. Their form is 2-2-2, scoring 7 goals, allowing 9 goals. Overall, Sporting KC is in a downtrend status after winning 1.33 points per game compared to their normal 1.87 average. They are currently 5th in the Major League Soccer and we are expecting them to score 1.50 goals in this game. Their current ELO rating is 1497.4 compared to 1590.3 10 matches ago. They are 4-4 over/under 2.5 goals away and 4-6 in their last 10 away games.

Overall history (H2H) is showing 1-0-0 to Montreal Impact since 2012 and 1-0-0 the past 3 years.

Montreal Impact vs Sporting KC Predictions: Montreal over Kansas 2-1

In their last meeting on May 5,2012 Kansas suffered a 2-0 loss at home to the impact. I see this being the same type of outcome with the Impact taking this. Montreal will be well rested and also I expect them to take control on the offense.

Original Source: Montreal Impact vs Sporting KC


Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: San Jose Earthquakes vs Portland Timbers Predictions

San Jose Earthquakes Preview

SJ is currently on the top of the Western Conference list with eleven wins, three loses and three draws tallying a total of 36 points, four points ahead of Western second placers, Real Salt Lake. Winning the previous three matches in a row including a 4-3 victory against the Los Angeles Galaxy, the Earthquakes are on fire and are gearing up for their next up-coming match against Portland who are currently placed at number 8 in the Western Conference. The Earthquakes’ game against Los Angeles is now considered one of the greatest in the history of the MLS. MLS Golden Boot leader Chris Wondolowski, whose back heel goal gave the Quakes the lead during that game is one of the team’s driving players.

However, the impending threat of fatigue which can result in injuries for the players is looming. The Timbers, although faced with a tough task, might just be able to bank on this probability.

Portland Timbers Preview

Ranked at number 8 within the Western Conference and having 20 lesser points than the San Jose Earthquakes who, by the way, are currently the number 1 team in the West, Portland (W-4,L-7,T-4) definitely has a tough challenge to take on this Tuesday when they go against the San Jose Earthquakes(W-11,L-3,T-3). One advantage however falls to the Timbers’ side, the game will be played at the Jeld-Wen Field, Portland’s home turf.

The Timbers were absolutely annihilated by the Colorado Rapids during their match last June 30th but that was on the road. Home turf might be an advantage for Portland and they need to identify and exploit SJ’s weaknesses on this coming match.

"If we don't get points in this game, we're in a really bad spot," Timbers’ goalkeeper Troy Perkins said. "We've got to keep pushing and keep pressing."

San Jose Earthquakes vs Portland Timbers Predictions: 3-0

The Earthquakes have a powerful attack as was proven during their last match against the Galaxy. Unless the Portland Timbers adjust their defenses and strengthen their offense, the team does not stand a chance against the red-hot Earthquakes, home turf or not.

Original Source: San Jose Earthquakes vs Portland Timbers


Major League Soccer 2012 Preview: Houston Dynamo vs Chicago Fire Predictions

Houston Dynamo Preview

After a 2-1 victory against the Philadelphia Union on the 30th of June, Houston Dynamo is back for another match-up, this time against the Chicago Fire. The last match that the Dynamos had against Chicago was in April 15 of 2012 where the game ended in a draw of 1-1. Currently, Houston ranks at number five in the Eastern Conference with 6 wins 5 loses and 5 draws with a total of 23 points. Oddly enough they rank just below Chicago Fire who has two more winning games ahead of Union but with the same amount of defeats. The venue will be Houston’s home turf and the team has not lost a game at home this season.

Houston, with a probable 4-4-2 line-up however, needs to strengthen their attack against Chicago’s strong defense. Chicago has 4 more points ahead of Houston and has won three games in a row. Plus Chicago’s unpredictability as a team will definitely make it hard for the Dynamo.

Chicago Fire Preview

Chicago Fire has been untouchable for the previous three games in a row including one with the Eastern Conference top team, New York Red Bulls where they easily achieved a 3-1 victory. During their last match-up, Chicagomanaged a 1-0 road victory at Sporting Kansas City on last Friday when Marco Pappa grabbed the game's only goal, and Sean Johnson made several outstanding saves to hold the lead.

Chicago needs to maintain their defense against Houston and tone up their attack. Things are looking more favourable on Chicago’s side but both teams seem to be at equal considering their five previous matches head to head with other each team has one win and three draws.

Houston Dynamo vs Chicago Fire Predictions: Draw 1-1

As mentioned above, both teams have met five times in the past Chicago has won once, Houston once, and the rest are draws. This keeps both teams at equal pace. Although Chicago is one rank higher, only four points and two games are the differential. This match-up seems even in the eyes of many.

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