Other MLS Games - Penultimate Sunday - 16 October
All East conference games at 3 pm with simultaneous kickoffs
CBus @ NYRB
We obviously want a tie or a Cbus win here but NYRB hasn't lost a game in a looooong loooong time. Columbus midfield isn't good enough to deal with NYRB's press. The Minions are out of the playoff picture due to the first tie breaker (wins).
Prediction: 3- 0 for the home side
Orlando @ Philly
Orlando out as well. They are, in essence, playing for what we were in 2014 - next year. Philly wraps up a playoff spot with a win here (again due to the tie breaker) and they are also fighting for that 4th slot. Orlando's defence has been poor (except vs. us...grrr) but the Union are spotty.
Prediction: 2-2 draw
NYCFC @ DCU
This is the most likely chance for a team we are chasing to drop points. DCU is surging and havn't lost at home since June - their last loss was at Yankee stadium. The way DCU plays will give the Man City B team fits. BUT, those veterans on NYCFC are driving them to the playoffs.
Prediction: 2-2 draw
NER @ Chicago
NER need a win here. Fire are just playing out the string and have little to no motivation, even at home. NER has been unable to get the win when they need one but they have too much midfield strength while the Fire's defence is still pretty horrid.
Prediction: 2-1 for NER
Western Conference games are all at 5pm
SKC @ RSL
RSL is guaranteed playoffs with a tie here but are in with a chance at 3rd and 4th, especially as next week they travel to Seattle. RSL has 1 loss at home but 7 draws. SKC still hasn't secured a spot. These two teams do not like each other.
Prediction: 1-1 draw
Colorado @ Portland
With a win and a Dallas loss, the Rapids take the shield. Portland realistically HAS to win this game.This will be a playoff atmosphere. I'm not sure the Rapids will be ready for that sort of a reception.
Prediction: 3-1 for Portland
Vancouver @ San Jose
The only game between 2 teams not going to be in the playoffs. Attendance will be awful. So, in MLS fashion, this means this will be the best game of the week.
Prediction: 3-2 for San Jose
LAG @ Houston
Houston's form since they got rid of the boat anchor that was Owen Coyle has been decent enough, with an improved defence; but they suffered the last 3 games against playoff bound teams. LAG is really just playing for 3rd or 4th but hasn't been great of late. They have 15 draws so far this season.
Prediction: 2- 2 draw
Seattle @ FCD
Two teams looking really good heading into the playoffs - a possible 2 vs 3 scenario in the second round. Dallas wants to keep the pressure on the Rapids for the Shield. Seattle is looking to cement a home game in the first round.
Prediction: 3-1 for Dallas
