This week brings a full slate of MLS matchups, as all fourteen teams begin the final nine-game stretch of the season. Things are tight in both conferences, as the East jockeys for the five playoff spots they’ll likely get, and the West must fight over what will probably be only three spots. Five East-West games are on-tap, which means that the East has an opportunity to reassert its dominance. Let’s see what the slightly reworked PowerScore formula predicts:
Friday, August 29
Real Salt Lake (3.14) v. Colorado (1.35)
After being embarrassed on the road last week, RSL returns to the friendly confines of Rice-Eccles Stadium and have the pleasure of facing the Rapids, a team doing even worse than they are. RSL is tough to beat at home, and while Conor Casey is doing his best to get his team on a run, RSL should get the three points. RSL 2 – 0 Rapids
Saturday, August 30
D.C. United (3.98) v. New York (3.20)
Which DC team will show up? What about the Red Bulls? Both teams have been models of inconsistency this season, which means that almost anything could happen in this match. However, DC’s home strength should be enough to cool off New York’s recent hot streak. DCU 3 – 2 Red Bulls
New England (3.05) v. Los Angeles (1.25)
Have you heard — Los Angeles has looked terrible for the last forever, and after a brief stumble, New England appears to be regaining its form. Both sides should be at full strength, which means that Los Angeles might net a goal. However, New England will be too strong for the struggling Galaxy. Revs 2 – 1 Galaxy
Dallas (3.05) v. Columbus (3.60)
Columbus was struggling for a while, but Barros Schelotto and Sigi Schmid seem to have the team back on track. The real issue here is whether Columbus can play on the road like they played at home last week against Real Salt lake — maintaining possession for stretches and creating dangerous chances without getting overextended. It should be close, but I think Columbus will scrape out a victory. Dallas 0 – 1 Columbus
San Jose (3.23) v. Kansas City (1.73)
San Jose is just about the most dangerous team in MLS right now, and they have a gift-wrapped chance to extend their league-leading undefeated streak when the Wizards come to visit. Look for the Earthquakes to make it seven-straight unbeaten as their newfound offense blows by the Wizards. San Jose 3 – 1 Wizards
Chivas USA (2.14) v. Toronto FC (1.50)
Chivas is struggling, unable to find a consistent coherent attack because of injuries and now they a solid backstop since Guzan left. Toronto, on the other hand, has found a way to help Chad Barrett find the net. Nonetheless, Chivas should be able to win at home again a road-woeful Toronto team. Chivas 2 – 1 Toronto
Sunday, August 31
Houston (4.20) v. Chicago (3.96)
Houston stumbled finally last week, getting blown out by the Red Bulls. Chicago, on the other hand, has been scarily consistent on the road. This one smells like a tie. Houston 1 – 1 Chicago
Tags: MLS, PowerScore, Predictions
