So week 1 is behind us; what an amazing start. One word comes to mind after this week: goals. Will week 2 bring the same results? Well, let’s consider a few questions.
Montreal Impact
They lost their first game in Major League Soccer. So what? We definitely saw some
holes in their defensive line and a lack of scoring options, but it was still only the first
game. Here is their big chance for redemption. Montreal has already sold over 60,000
tickets for their home opener. If the Impact were hoping to immediately make a big
splash in the league, this is their opportunity. With a home crowd that dedicated, they can
be sure to have an advantage.
Montreal will be taking on a still pre-season form Chicago Fire. But even though this will
be Chicago’s first game, the speedy Fire attackers Dominic Oduro and Patrick Nyarko
will be looking to expose Montreal’s back line, which looked slow against Vancouver.
The Bottom Line
Will Montreal’s home field give them a winning edge, or will Oduro blaze past their
defense all afternoon?
Toronto FC
Well most people weren’t expecting it, but Toronto FC moved past the Galaxy in LA to
the semifinals in the CCL. So have I really misread this Toronto team? Maybe. But can
they beat Seattle at home? Eh, I don’t think so. However, nobody really saw them beating
the Galaxy at home either.
Seattle just got knocked around pretty badly in the CCL. They need this win, not only for
points, but for some pride as well. However, Toronto needs to play this smart and rest
some players. It’s just their first game of the season, and they aren’t pushing for points
right now.
The Bottom Line
Does Toronto ride this wave into Seattle and play their starters or does Seattle take apart
a tired Toronto side?
New York Red Bulls
Oh geez. Once again, off field drama is overshadowing New York’s on-field play.
Thierry Henry’s remarks (or lack of) have been putting off MLS fans. After their loss to
Dallas, Henry said they needed to “win games.” He added, “and score more goals than
the opponent.”
After his lackluster comments and play against Dallas, fans are already questioning
Henry’s commitment to New York this season. Now, they have an even bigger challenge
facing Real Salt Lake.
The Bottom Line
Does Henry pick himself up and take charge against Salt Lake, or does RSL take down
New York like they did LA?
Portland Timbers
Portland was extremely impressive last week. However, was it the team that was so great
or the fans? Yes, Portland got the win over Philadelphia, but can they do it outside their
home field? I want to see if Kris Boyd can keep attacking form in Dallas. If Portland can
be as dangerous on the road as they are at home, they could be a playoff contender.
The Bottom Line
Can Portland win on the road?
Well, here’s to hoping this week will be as good as the last!
-Kipp Lawton
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