Columbus Crew host the league owned LA team today at 3:00 PM EST, 12:00 PM EST.
GAME NOTES
CLB: Trapp, Tchani suspended (yellow accumulation)
CLB: Look to bounce back after disappointing loss
CLB: Still looking for consistent production from forward position
MLS; (nothing notable)
GAME PREDICTIONS
Number on far left is percentage accuracy picking result. In parentheses is correct picks in last ten games.
50% (5) COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... COLUMBUS CREW (fav)
46% (3) WHOSCORED.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
42% (4) GOAL.COM ... DRAW
42% (5) MLSSOCCER ... COLUMBUS CREW
42% (5) WIN DRAW WIN ... COLUMBUS CREW
38% (5) HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
35% (4) BET365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
27% (5) TABLE POSITION ... COLUMBUS CREW
--% (-) WV HOOLIGAN ... (no pick)
--% (-) MASSIVE REPORT ... (no pick)
GAME THOUGHTS
The Crew come into this one as heavy favorites against a team whose future is very much uncertain. Bet365 has the home side 4/9 favorites, Win Draw Win likes this one as a 1-0 win with only 14% of the user votes going the visitors way.
Adam Jardy's preview for the Dispatch isn't quite as confident on the Crew side as it was last week when the team took on a poor Montreal saying they have "take care of business against the worst team in the West."
MLSsoccer.com, on the other hand, picked the Crew across the board.
Even without regular starters in Tony Tchani and Wil Trapp, anything less than a win today will raise some serious questions as the opposition is in comparatively complete dysfunction.
Weather looks pretty good, clear and warm.
Showing posts with label game prediction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label game prediction. Show all posts
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Predictions: Crew Rd 15 (DC away)
The Columbus Crew wrap up their busy week with a game in the nation's capital today when they face DC United at RFK FedEx Field. Should be a huge crowd on hand as there is a lead-in international friendly between El Salvador and Spain.
GAME NOTES
CLB: Two major absences - Federico Higuain and Wil Trapp
CLB: Loss puts them firmly in bottom half blender
CLB: Away form is 5 pts from last 6, -3 goal difference
DCU: Only 1 loss at home this year (1st game vs Crew)
DCU: Look to have full accompaniment of regular starters (save Kitchen)
DCU: Only allowed 7 goals in 8 games at RFK this year
TEN PREDICTIONS
Number on left is percentage accuracy picking 2014 Columbus Crew results only.
57% WHOSCORED.COM ... DC UNITED
Graham Ruthven has been hitting on Crew games with astonishing accuracy. Calls Columbus an erratic side and, at the time of the writing, that's with Higuain playing. 2-1 DC.
50% COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... DC UNITED
"The losses of Wil Trapp (knee) and Federico Higuain (hamstring) to injuries will exacerbate the situation," says Adam Jardy. Pick up a paper today, Jardy has all the details on the Oduro, Rey trade.
43% MLSSOCCER ... DC UNITED
Overwhelmingly DC today, 5 of 6 and only one Draw. Everybody there is doing better with picks this year, strangely five of them are right on 40% correct. Only Jason Saghini stands above with 44%.
43% WIN DRAW WIN ... DC UNITED
Your Votes section has Crew at lowest percentage of year with 16%. DC walking way with 53%. Medium stake on 2-0 home win.
36% BET365 ... DC UNITED
23/20 DC (fav), 20/10 draw, 12/5 Crew
36% GOAL.COM ... DRAW
No lean to be found in Thomas Floyd's preview today. Does mention host of absences for both sides.
36% HOME TEAM ... DC UNITED
14% TABLE POSITION ... DC UNITED
--% WV HOOLIGAN ... (no pick)
--% MASSIVE REPORT ... (no pick)
Head on over to Massive Report or Black and Red United to read Patrick Murphy's excellent take on today's match.
MY PREDICTION - A CREW WIN!
I'm kidding. This one is about as a sure thing as you will ever see for a MLS game. Outside of the lead in game there is the fact that DC doesn't have that last day of school feel yet that the Crew have (which was evident with some of the player tweets last night (WHICH IS PERFECTLY OK, WHICH I LIKE, WHICH MAKES THE TEAM MORE FUN, WHICH THEY USE TO DO MORE OFTEN AND IT WAS FINE)).
You also find some evidence of that last day before break with handling of Federico Higuain and Wil Trapp injuries. I reached out to Massive Report's Managing Editor Patrick Guldan and beat writer Patrick Murphy they both believed Higuain would be out but they were not sure on Trapp. In either case, the decision to hold them out is easier when a break is eminent.
This DC team is about as MLS experienced as they get and you need that experience to know how to play during a season so disrupted by the World Cup. This is a first for all the Crew players except Tyson Wahl.
A couple things to watch this evening on the Crew side is if Ethan Finlay can keep things humming (he is in full form, 3 goals and an assist in just 275 mins this year) and see if Ben Speas (two assists in last two appearances) gets a crack at a starting role. Tonight is also a great opportunity for the other midfielders to leave Crew HC Berhalter with a good impression before new arrival Alvaro Rey joins the squad.
Expect Columbus to maintain control of the ball this match with DC looking for daggers on the counter or quick transitions from interceptions and mistakes.
Weather looks perfect over there in my old stomping grounds. Should be a great day for soccer fans out there.
GAME NOTES
CLB: Two major absences - Federico Higuain and Wil Trapp
CLB: Loss puts them firmly in bottom half blender
CLB: Away form is 5 pts from last 6, -3 goal difference
DCU: Only 1 loss at home this year (1st game vs Crew)
DCU: Look to have full accompaniment of regular starters (save Kitchen)
DCU: Only allowed 7 goals in 8 games at RFK this year
TEN PREDICTIONS
Number on left is percentage accuracy picking 2014 Columbus Crew results only.
57% WHOSCORED.COM ... DC UNITED
Graham Ruthven has been hitting on Crew games with astonishing accuracy. Calls Columbus an erratic side and, at the time of the writing, that's with Higuain playing. 2-1 DC.
50% COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... DC UNITED
"The losses of Wil Trapp (knee) and Federico Higuain (hamstring) to injuries will exacerbate the situation," says Adam Jardy. Pick up a paper today, Jardy has all the details on the Oduro, Rey trade.
43% MLSSOCCER ... DC UNITED
Overwhelmingly DC today, 5 of 6 and only one Draw. Everybody there is doing better with picks this year, strangely five of them are right on 40% correct. Only Jason Saghini stands above with 44%.
43% WIN DRAW WIN ... DC UNITED
Your Votes section has Crew at lowest percentage of year with 16%. DC walking way with 53%. Medium stake on 2-0 home win.
36% BET365 ... DC UNITED
23/20 DC (fav), 20/10 draw, 12/5 Crew
36% GOAL.COM ... DRAW
No lean to be found in Thomas Floyd's preview today. Does mention host of absences for both sides.
36% HOME TEAM ... DC UNITED
14% TABLE POSITION ... DC UNITED
--% WV HOOLIGAN ... (no pick)
--% MASSIVE REPORT ... (no pick)
Head on over to Massive Report or Black and Red United to read Patrick Murphy's excellent take on today's match.
MY PREDICTION - A CREW WIN!
I'm kidding. This one is about as a sure thing as you will ever see for a MLS game. Outside of the lead in game there is the fact that DC doesn't have that last day of school feel yet that the Crew have (which was evident with some of the player tweets last night (WHICH IS PERFECTLY OK, WHICH I LIKE, WHICH MAKES THE TEAM MORE FUN, WHICH THEY USE TO DO MORE OFTEN AND IT WAS FINE)).
You also find some evidence of that last day before break with handling of Federico Higuain and Wil Trapp injuries. I reached out to Massive Report's Managing Editor Patrick Guldan and beat writer Patrick Murphy they both believed Higuain would be out but they were not sure on Trapp. In either case, the decision to hold them out is easier when a break is eminent.
This DC team is about as MLS experienced as they get and you need that experience to know how to play during a season so disrupted by the World Cup. This is a first for all the Crew players except Tyson Wahl.
A couple things to watch this evening on the Crew side is if Ethan Finlay can keep things humming (he is in full form, 3 goals and an assist in just 275 mins this year) and see if Ben Speas (two assists in last two appearances) gets a crack at a starting role. Tonight is also a great opportunity for the other midfielders to leave Crew HC Berhalter with a good impression before new arrival Alvaro Rey joins the squad.
Expect Columbus to maintain control of the ball this match with DC looking for daggers on the counter or quick transitions from interceptions and mistakes.
Weather looks perfect over there in my old stomping grounds. Should be a great day for soccer fans out there.
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Crew Rd 12 Predictions, Home vs Chicago
The Columbus Crew host the Chicago Fire tonight at Crew Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 PM, 6:30 Central. Looks to be perfect weather.
GAME NOTES
CLB: Parkhurst playing or not is critical to result
CLB: Gonzalez, Francis on national team duty for World Cup
CLB: Back line gave up 2 goals to 10 man Portland last week
CHI: Won two straight (NY, SKC) but hasn't been pretty
CHI: Shipp is Rookie of Year candidate, fun to watch
CHI: Not really firing on all cylinders under Yallop
TEN PREDICTIONS
Percentage on left is accuracy picking Crew games only.
55% WHOSCORED.COM ... DRAW
Graham Ruthven doesn't really know how to call this one. Ultimately it becomes... "Will both sides' new-found attacking potency come to the fore? It could be a case of who can concede fewer."
55% WIN DRAW WIN ... CHICAGO FIRE
Your Vote section has Fire 44%, Draw 34% and Crew just 20%. Large stake is on Away Win 1-2.
36% COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... COLUMBUS CREW*
Put the astrerisk there because Adam Jardy thinks that with Parkhurst being in the lineup "would be the emotional boost needed for the home team to earn its first victory in nearly two months." Pick up the paper when you're out and about this beautiful morning.
27% BET365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Home odds for the Crew slipped to lowest in the league for today's slate of matches, but still favored 13/10 (12/5 draw, 2/1 Chicago).
27% GOAL.COM ... CHICAGO FIRE
I'll say the mystery preview writer favors the Fire by going the "two teams in opposite directions" card. Fan vote see's this as even. Mentions some midtable jockeying.
27% HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
27% MLSSOCCER.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Crew pick up 4 votes from 6 from the table of experts employed at the MLS Home Office if Information and Propaganda. Two other picks are Draw. Wouldn't worry on this too much if I were a Chicago fan.
27% WV HOOLIGAN ... (no pick)
18% TABLE POSITION ... CHICAGO FIRE / DRAW
Chicago is ahead of the Crew on the true table (ppg), but only by a hair.
--% MASSIVE REPORT ... (no pick)
Head over to check out Pat Murphy's preview and find out things like the fact that Harry Shipp trained with Berhalter's Swedish side Hammarby.
MY PREDICTIONS, HOW IT WILL PLAY
As the season has worn on the Crew have loosened a bit on possession but they are still 2nd in the league in that critical stat. I would expect more of that today as the Fire don't mind letting the other side play.
What that means is this match will look a little like the last couple home matches against Vancouver and NY. If you can remember back to April 5th, even Toronto.
The key for Columbus is (and will always be) finishing chances. Last week they put three past Portland but two came on a 10 man team. While the Fire are giving up a lot of goals, I'm not sure they can replicate that performance (or that Higuain chip on Ricketts) but a couple isn't out of the question.
I see this on as pretty even with Parkhurst out there, edge to Chicago if he is not.
If your in town, go check it out! Should be nice out.
GAME NOTES
CLB: Parkhurst playing or not is critical to result
CLB: Gonzalez, Francis on national team duty for World Cup
CLB: Back line gave up 2 goals to 10 man Portland last week
CHI: Won two straight (NY, SKC) but hasn't been pretty
CHI: Shipp is Rookie of Year candidate, fun to watch
CHI: Not really firing on all cylinders under Yallop
TEN PREDICTIONS
Percentage on left is accuracy picking Crew games only.
55% WHOSCORED.COM ... DRAW
Graham Ruthven doesn't really know how to call this one. Ultimately it becomes... "Will both sides' new-found attacking potency come to the fore? It could be a case of who can concede fewer."
55% WIN DRAW WIN ... CHICAGO FIRE
Your Vote section has Fire 44%, Draw 34% and Crew just 20%. Large stake is on Away Win 1-2.
36% COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... COLUMBUS CREW*
Put the astrerisk there because Adam Jardy thinks that with Parkhurst being in the lineup "would be the emotional boost needed for the home team to earn its first victory in nearly two months." Pick up the paper when you're out and about this beautiful morning.
27% BET365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Home odds for the Crew slipped to lowest in the league for today's slate of matches, but still favored 13/10 (12/5 draw, 2/1 Chicago).
27% GOAL.COM ... CHICAGO FIRE
I'll say the mystery preview writer favors the Fire by going the "two teams in opposite directions" card. Fan vote see's this as even. Mentions some midtable jockeying.
27% HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
27% MLSSOCCER.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Crew pick up 4 votes from 6 from the table of experts employed at the MLS Home Office if Information and Propaganda. Two other picks are Draw. Wouldn't worry on this too much if I were a Chicago fan.
27% WV HOOLIGAN ... (no pick)
18% TABLE POSITION ... CHICAGO FIRE / DRAW
Chicago is ahead of the Crew on the true table (ppg), but only by a hair.
--% MASSIVE REPORT ... (no pick)
Head over to check out Pat Murphy's preview and find out things like the fact that Harry Shipp trained with Berhalter's Swedish side Hammarby.
MY PREDICTIONS, HOW IT WILL PLAY
 |
| Harry Shipp |
What that means is this match will look a little like the last couple home matches against Vancouver and NY. If you can remember back to April 5th, even Toronto.
The key for Columbus is (and will always be) finishing chances. Last week they put three past Portland but two came on a 10 man team. While the Fire are giving up a lot of goals, I'm not sure they can replicate that performance (or that Higuain chip on Ricketts) but a couple isn't out of the question.
I see this on as pretty even with Parkhurst out there, edge to Chicago if he is not.
If your in town, go check it out! Should be nice out.
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Crew Rd 10 Predictions, Home vs 'Caps
Crew host the Vancouver Whitecaps this evening. Raining now, more is expected. Kickoff at 7:30 PM EST, 4:30 PM PST.
GAME NOTES
CLB: Form 2nd to last in last 6 games (-5 GD, 3 Pts)
CLB: Trapp returning from suspension
CLB: Lineup changes expected, 3rd game in week
VAN: 1.67 Goals per Game, 4th in MLS. Only 3 in 4 Away, however
VAN: Win last week vs. San Jose
VAN: No Kenny Miller
TEN PREDICTIONS
Percentage on left is accuracy picking Columbus Crew matches only. Sorted best to worst.
56% WHOSCORED.COM ... VANCOUVER WHITECAPS
Graham Ruthven speaking truth when he says "The Caps have been presented with an excellent opportunity to make it two successive wins." Likes them by a 0-1 scoreline.
56% WIN DRAW WIN ... VANCOUVER WHITECAPS
Seems to be some confidence around an Away victory today. Those wiseguys have stake on 0-1 'Caps and vote them 39% chance to win (Draw 34%, Crew 26%). Pretty tight.
44% COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... DRAW
Check today's paper for news on how the team looks to approach today's match, also looks at how this winless streak creeping up Crew record books. As far as the result, Adam Jardy believes unfamiliarity breeds draw.
33% BET365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Odds in the favor of the home side today 11/10 (23/10 Draw, 5/2 'Caps).
33% GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Rudi Schuller from Goal Canada bangs out a preview today, in it saying; "Gregg Berhalter's side will be looking to re-assert its home field advantage against a Vancouver side that has historically looked average away from home."
33% HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Crew looking to get back on track at home. Only 5 pts over last 4 games at Crew Stadium and only 4 goals.
33% MLSSOCCER ... COLUMBUS CREW
All aboard the Crew train this week.
22% WV HOOLIGAN ... n/a
Drew Epperley has been tied up the past couple weeks.
0% MASSIVE REPORT ... n/a
Jon Szekerez of Eighty Six Forever and Pat Murphy sit down and drop knowledge on today's matchup, go check it out and be a smart Vancrewcaps person.
0% TABLE POSITION ... VANCOUVER WHITECAPS
First time this year the Crew weren't higher up than the opposition.
MY GAME THOUGHTS
It won't surprise anyone when the Whitecaps play for the draw. They are not a good road team partly because they are an expansion franchise, but also because they have to travel so far.
That said, it's not like they are horrible this year away from BC Place. 3 drawn and only one loss says to me that Carl Robinson is just trying to hold ground away for now before he takes some risks. Risks that I do not think he will be very temped to take today very often.
Vancouver does have a lot of speed (oh, MLS loves the speed) so they probably can catch the Crew pushing numbers forward if so inclined.
It could get very interesting if both Josh Williams and Waylon Francis are rested today. Both of them have the speed to get up and down where likely replacements, whoever they are, do not (and will not be in game shape). Actually, that just might be the key to this game.
Of course a win is important, but a draw or loss here for the Crew isn't the end of the world because of the way the league works in East / West divisions. Meaning; a loss isn't giving a East team three points over the Crew or the Crew is dropping two points in a draw with an East team. With that, I think the Crew should take some risks pushing forward to get some goals and reset some bad confidence and form.
A shootout type 2-2 or 3-2 type match is something this team needs.
Draw most likely for me, 'Caps win least likely.
We see. Man, rainy out there. Take an umbrella if you are heading out the match today. Should be a fun one!
GAME NOTES
CLB: Form 2nd to last in last 6 games (-5 GD, 3 Pts)
CLB: Trapp returning from suspension
CLB: Lineup changes expected, 3rd game in week
VAN: 1.67 Goals per Game, 4th in MLS. Only 3 in 4 Away, however
VAN: Win last week vs. San Jose
VAN: No Kenny Miller
TEN PREDICTIONS
Percentage on left is accuracy picking Columbus Crew matches only. Sorted best to worst.
56% WHOSCORED.COM ... VANCOUVER WHITECAPS
Graham Ruthven speaking truth when he says "The Caps have been presented with an excellent opportunity to make it two successive wins." Likes them by a 0-1 scoreline.
56% WIN DRAW WIN ... VANCOUVER WHITECAPS
Seems to be some confidence around an Away victory today. Those wiseguys have stake on 0-1 'Caps and vote them 39% chance to win (Draw 34%, Crew 26%). Pretty tight.
44% COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... DRAW
Check today's paper for news on how the team looks to approach today's match, also looks at how this winless streak creeping up Crew record books. As far as the result, Adam Jardy believes unfamiliarity breeds draw.
33% BET365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Odds in the favor of the home side today 11/10 (23/10 Draw, 5/2 'Caps).
33% GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Rudi Schuller from Goal Canada bangs out a preview today, in it saying; "Gregg Berhalter's side will be looking to re-assert its home field advantage against a Vancouver side that has historically looked average away from home."
33% HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Crew looking to get back on track at home. Only 5 pts over last 4 games at Crew Stadium and only 4 goals.
33% MLSSOCCER ... COLUMBUS CREW
All aboard the Crew train this week.
22% WV HOOLIGAN ... n/a
Drew Epperley has been tied up the past couple weeks.
0% MASSIVE REPORT ... n/a
Jon Szekerez of Eighty Six Forever and Pat Murphy sit down and drop knowledge on today's matchup, go check it out and be a smart Vancrewcaps person.
0% TABLE POSITION ... VANCOUVER WHITECAPS
First time this year the Crew weren't higher up than the opposition.
MY GAME THOUGHTS
 |
| 'Caps Coach Robinson |
That said, it's not like they are horrible this year away from BC Place. 3 drawn and only one loss says to me that Carl Robinson is just trying to hold ground away for now before he takes some risks. Risks that I do not think he will be very temped to take today very often.
Vancouver does have a lot of speed (oh, MLS loves the speed) so they probably can catch the Crew pushing numbers forward if so inclined.
It could get very interesting if both Josh Williams and Waylon Francis are rested today. Both of them have the speed to get up and down where likely replacements, whoever they are, do not (and will not be in game shape). Actually, that just might be the key to this game.
Of course a win is important, but a draw or loss here for the Crew isn't the end of the world because of the way the league works in East / West divisions. Meaning; a loss isn't giving a East team three points over the Crew or the Crew is dropping two points in a draw with an East team. With that, I think the Crew should take some risks pushing forward to get some goals and reset some bad confidence and form.
A shootout type 2-2 or 3-2 type match is something this team needs.
Draw most likely for me, 'Caps win least likely.
We see. Man, rainy out there. Take an umbrella if you are heading out the match today. Should be a fun one!
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Crew Rd 2 Predictions (Home vs PHI)
Two teams looking improved over last year are in action tonight as the Philadelphia Union are in town to take on the Columbus Crew. Game starts 6:00 PM EST.
GAME NOTES:
CLB: Healthy so far this season.
CLB: Oduro off suspension, should play role tonight.
CLB: Crewsmas Day in Columbus, fun for fans.
PHI: Looks like missing Austin Berry today, if so? big loss.
PHI: Played Crew to draw in Columbus last year.
PHI: Maurice Edu will be in mid controlling action.
TEN PREDICTIONS
1. WIN DRAW WIN ... COLUMBUS CREW
Folks in the know like the Crew this week. Small stake on 1-0 home win. "Your Votes" also has the Crew with 42% (37% Draw, 20% Philly)
2. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... COLUMBUS CREW
Adam Jardy does think the Union will be "more formidable test for the Crew" than last weeks DC team, but in the end finds it hard to find a reason for the Crew not to get 3 pts. Pick up a copy of the Dispatch today to read all about it.
3. BET365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Leaning heavily on the Home teams across the entire league today. Crew no different at almost even (21/20 fav). Draw 11/5 and PHI 11/4.
4. HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Home teams are dominate in MLS thus far in 2014, only losing 3 games out of 16 played.
5. GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Thomas Floyd thinks "The outlook is better for Columbus, with Parkhurst set to play after recovering from a calf knock and Dominic Oduro ready to make his 2014 debut." Reader predictions likes Philly, however.
6. MASSIVE REPORT ... (no lean)
Pat Murphy points out that the Crew have never started a season with two wins. Give his good match preview a read.
7. WHOSCORED.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Graham Ruthven thinks "...Berhalter's team put down an impressive marker in the capital but now face a tougher challenge on Saturday," he likes the Crew 2-1.
8. TABLE POSITION ... (too early)
Only a couple weeks in, chill dude.
9. MLSSOCCER.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
The "pick em" crew likes the Crew this week, 5 of the 6 going with them. Only Nick Rosano likes this one a draw.
10. WV HOOLIGAN ... DRAW
Drew Epperley is the only one this week that see's this any other way than a Crew win thinking; "Both teams have plenty to be excited by surrounding them." Score prediction: 1-1.
MY THOUGHTS
There's always a buzz in the crowd for home openers and that should be no different for the Crew today. Rumors have the Nordecke sold out, so the atmosphere should be hoppin' over there at the very least.
Both the Crew and Philly are improved over last year which means the soccer might be fun to watch... later this year. Since this is early in the season we will see a lot of pressing and (likely) a lot of fouls which means free(ish) flowing match from last week will not re-appear this week.
Like many on my list above I also think this will be a good test for both sides. I expect Hackworth and Berhalter to try and control the match in the middle of the pitch from the get-go today and the score line to be low and close.
A couple key things to watch for will be if Dominic Oduro starts or not (up top or in the MF) and if Philly's Austin Berry goes (injured?).
Oduro hasn't played a competitive match with the first team since February 26th against Orlando in the preseason. Speaking of the preseason, these two met early on and it was a midfield tug of war. Federico eventually put the Crew up but it took a 88th minute penalty.
GAME NOTES:
CLB: Healthy so far this season.
CLB: Oduro off suspension, should play role tonight.
CLB: Crewsmas Day in Columbus, fun for fans.
PHI: Looks like missing Austin Berry today, if so? big loss.
PHI: Played Crew to draw in Columbus last year.
PHI: Maurice Edu will be in mid controlling action.
TEN PREDICTIONS
1. WIN DRAW WIN ... COLUMBUS CREW
Folks in the know like the Crew this week. Small stake on 1-0 home win. "Your Votes" also has the Crew with 42% (37% Draw, 20% Philly)
2. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... COLUMBUS CREW
Adam Jardy does think the Union will be "more formidable test for the Crew" than last weeks DC team, but in the end finds it hard to find a reason for the Crew not to get 3 pts. Pick up a copy of the Dispatch today to read all about it.
3. BET365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Leaning heavily on the Home teams across the entire league today. Crew no different at almost even (21/20 fav). Draw 11/5 and PHI 11/4.
4. HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Home teams are dominate in MLS thus far in 2014, only losing 3 games out of 16 played.
5. GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Thomas Floyd thinks "The outlook is better for Columbus, with Parkhurst set to play after recovering from a calf knock and Dominic Oduro ready to make his 2014 debut." Reader predictions likes Philly, however.
6. MASSIVE REPORT ... (no lean)
Pat Murphy points out that the Crew have never started a season with two wins. Give his good match preview a read.
7. WHOSCORED.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Graham Ruthven thinks "...Berhalter's team put down an impressive marker in the capital but now face a tougher challenge on Saturday," he likes the Crew 2-1.
8. TABLE POSITION ... (too early)
Only a couple weeks in, chill dude.
9. MLSSOCCER.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
The "pick em" crew likes the Crew this week, 5 of the 6 going with them. Only Nick Rosano likes this one a draw.
10. WV HOOLIGAN ... DRAW
Drew Epperley is the only one this week that see's this any other way than a Crew win thinking; "Both teams have plenty to be excited by surrounding them." Score prediction: 1-1.
MY THOUGHTS
 |
| Think bigger, kid. |
Both the Crew and Philly are improved over last year which means the soccer might be fun to watch... later this year. Since this is early in the season we will see a lot of pressing and (likely) a lot of fouls which means free(ish) flowing match from last week will not re-appear this week.
Like many on my list above I also think this will be a good test for both sides. I expect Hackworth and Berhalter to try and control the match in the middle of the pitch from the get-go today and the score line to be low and close.
A couple key things to watch for will be if Dominic Oduro starts or not (up top or in the MF) and if Philly's Austin Berry goes (injured?).
Oduro hasn't played a competitive match with the first team since February 26th against Orlando in the preseason. Speaking of the preseason, these two met early on and it was a midfield tug of war. Federico eventually put the Crew up but it took a 88th minute penalty.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Predictions: Crew (A) v FC Dallas
Good Morning.
The Columbus Crew travel to Toyota Stadium today to take on FC Dallas. Kickoff time is 8:30 PM EST. 7:30 Central.
GAME NOTES:
CLB: Lineup likely to stay same as last 2 weeks
CLB: On GD, tied worst away form -10 in last 6
CLB: 7 losses in last 8 on the road
FCD: Only lost 1 all year at home
FCD: Lots of speed up top
FCD: In danger of dropping out of playoff hunt
-------------
PREDICTIONS
(in no particular order)
1. WIN DRAW WIN ... FC DALLAS
Leaning pretty heavy here at this aggregate betting site. Wise guys taking stake in a 3-0 Home win and only voting for the Crew 15% on the pretty accurate 'your vote' section.
2. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... NO LEAN
Adam Jardy, beat writer here in town, doesn't appear to lean either way. Again mentions win makes hopes of making the playoffs more realistic.
3. MLSSOCCER.COM ... FC DALLAS
Four of the six folks on the MLS panel like Dallas. Only one picking Crew to win (Andrew Wiebe, the arch nemesis to any thinking analyst)
4. HOME TEAM ... FC DALLAS
5. WHOSCORED.COM ... DRAW
Graham Ruthven actually gives fans a glimpse of what this game might look like as far as play (a rarity in MLS); "A compact, yet eagerly contested game is expected between these two sides. A draw could be on the cards."
6. WV HOOLIGAN ... FC DALLAS
Drew Epperley (Big D Soccer on SB Nation as well has WVHooligan.com) like Dallas to win this one 2-1. "Columbus has been better under Brian Bliss but I’d argue that they haven’t seen a team that has the speed that Dallas has up front."
7. BET365 ... FC DALLAS
Dallas is basically even (10/11) with a draw next (12/5). Crew getting 3/1 odds in this one.
8. MASSIVE REPORT ... DRAW
Managing editor, Patrick Guldan is sure to mention David Ferreira, saying that he "is Dallas's biggest creative force. Clamping down on him will choke the home team's offense." Patrick thinks this will go down as a 1-1 draw.
9. TABLE POSITION ... FC DALLAS
10. GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Ives Galarcep again with the summary for this one saying "Standing in the Crew's way is an FC Dallas side that is heading in the opposite direction. Consecutive losses, both courtesy of own goals, have put a halt to a promising turnaround for Dallas, which has managed just two wins in 16 matches." I'm going to go ahead and put the Crew down for this one, even though Ives doesn't really lean. The reader pick shows Dallas.
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MY THOUGHTS, PREDICTION
There are precisely two MLS teams that have positive goal difference away from home this year. Just like last week when Chicago traveled to Columbus and got whooped 3-0 it's going to be a tall order for the Crew to get all three points this week down in Texas.
The Crew do have a couple things going for them, however.
1. Team has some pep in the step under Brian Bliss
2. Dallas struggling to win home or away
Dallas is clearly the favorite today but those two things point to a closer match than many might think.
Josh Williams and Andy Gruenebaum, who have been recovering from injury, are probably sitting this one out. Bliss, like Warzycha before him, likes to keep the lineup the same if the team is winning.
I have problems with this. Biggest one is that this philosophy has failed the Crew over the past two years. They have only been able to string a couple wins together two times this year doing this.
You have to plan for each opponent differently. For example. The Crew aren't good on the road. A lot of that has to do with Matt Lampson and his inexperience on the road.
Goals given up with Lampson as starter:
3 : at Houston
4 : at Salt Lake
3 : at Kansas City
1 : at Montreal
That's 11 goals allowed in his last four away starts. I realize this is a team thing but Lampson has looked like a completely different person home vs away. A Gruenebaum start here, even though he has been out for an extended period, might not be a bad idea if he is ready to go. Gruenebaum's motivation will be through the roof.
Despite not getting the results they might like, Dallas has lit up the scoreboard in last three at home (8 goals in last 3). They will be extremely hungry to get goals vs the Crew.
Bliss could take advantage of that if so inclined.
Dallas is fast. Dallas can be frustrating. Dallas is hard to beat at home. This one could have some fireworks in it if the crowd gets in to it (if they are even there, Cowboys playing late afternoon game).
Looks like temps will be in the mid 80s. Enjoy the game.
The Columbus Crew travel to Toyota Stadium today to take on FC Dallas. Kickoff time is 8:30 PM EST. 7:30 Central.
GAME NOTES:
CLB: Lineup likely to stay same as last 2 weeks
CLB: On GD, tied worst away form -10 in last 6
CLB: 7 losses in last 8 on the road
FCD: Only lost 1 all year at home
FCD: Lots of speed up top
FCD: In danger of dropping out of playoff hunt
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PREDICTIONS
(in no particular order)
1. WIN DRAW WIN ... FC DALLAS
Leaning pretty heavy here at this aggregate betting site. Wise guys taking stake in a 3-0 Home win and only voting for the Crew 15% on the pretty accurate 'your vote' section.
2. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... NO LEAN
Adam Jardy, beat writer here in town, doesn't appear to lean either way. Again mentions win makes hopes of making the playoffs more realistic.
3. MLSSOCCER.COM ... FC DALLAS
Four of the six folks on the MLS panel like Dallas. Only one picking Crew to win (Andrew Wiebe, the arch nemesis to any thinking analyst)
4. HOME TEAM ... FC DALLAS
5. WHOSCORED.COM ... DRAW
Graham Ruthven actually gives fans a glimpse of what this game might look like as far as play (a rarity in MLS); "A compact, yet eagerly contested game is expected between these two sides. A draw could be on the cards."
6. WV HOOLIGAN ... FC DALLAS
Drew Epperley (Big D Soccer on SB Nation as well has WVHooligan.com) like Dallas to win this one 2-1. "Columbus has been better under Brian Bliss but I’d argue that they haven’t seen a team that has the speed that Dallas has up front."
7. BET365 ... FC DALLAS
Dallas is basically even (10/11) with a draw next (12/5). Crew getting 3/1 odds in this one.
8. MASSIVE REPORT ... DRAW
Managing editor, Patrick Guldan is sure to mention David Ferreira, saying that he "is Dallas's biggest creative force. Clamping down on him will choke the home team's offense." Patrick thinks this will go down as a 1-1 draw.
9. TABLE POSITION ... FC DALLAS
10. GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW
Ives Galarcep again with the summary for this one saying "Standing in the Crew's way is an FC Dallas side that is heading in the opposite direction. Consecutive losses, both courtesy of own goals, have put a halt to a promising turnaround for Dallas, which has managed just two wins in 16 matches." I'm going to go ahead and put the Crew down for this one, even though Ives doesn't really lean. The reader pick shows Dallas.
---------------
MY THOUGHTS, PREDICTION
There are precisely two MLS teams that have positive goal difference away from home this year. Just like last week when Chicago traveled to Columbus and got whooped 3-0 it's going to be a tall order for the Crew to get all three points this week down in Texas.
The Crew do have a couple things going for them, however.
1. Team has some pep in the step under Brian Bliss
2. Dallas struggling to win home or away
Dallas is clearly the favorite today but those two things point to a closer match than many might think.
Josh Williams and Andy Gruenebaum, who have been recovering from injury, are probably sitting this one out. Bliss, like Warzycha before him, likes to keep the lineup the same if the team is winning.
I have problems with this. Biggest one is that this philosophy has failed the Crew over the past two years. They have only been able to string a couple wins together two times this year doing this.
You have to plan for each opponent differently. For example. The Crew aren't good on the road. A lot of that has to do with Matt Lampson and his inexperience on the road.
Goals given up with Lampson as starter:
3 : at Houston
4 : at Salt Lake
3 : at Kansas City
1 : at Montreal
That's 11 goals allowed in his last four away starts. I realize this is a team thing but Lampson has looked like a completely different person home vs away. A Gruenebaum start here, even though he has been out for an extended period, might not be a bad idea if he is ready to go. Gruenebaum's motivation will be through the roof.
Despite not getting the results they might like, Dallas has lit up the scoreboard in last three at home (8 goals in last 3). They will be extremely hungry to get goals vs the Crew.
Bliss could take advantage of that if so inclined.
Dallas is fast. Dallas can be frustrating. Dallas is hard to beat at home. This one could have some fireworks in it if the crowd gets in to it (if they are even there, Cowboys playing late afternoon game).
Looks like temps will be in the mid 80s. Enjoy the game.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Predictions: Crew (H) v Sounders
A star studded Seattle Sounders team is in Columbus this evening and taking on the hometown Crew up at the fairgrounds (off I-71. You can't miss it, there is a huge billboard with Clint Dempsey's picture on the side). Kickoff is at 7:30 PM EST, 4:30 PM Cascadia time.
GAME NOTES:
-CLB: Higuian out next 2
-CLB: Ryan Finley expected to start
-CLB: Lost last week 4-0 away to RSL
-SEA: Only 1 quality road win this year (5-15 SKC)
-SEA: 6 Red Cards in 12 away fixtures
-SEA: Important match, need wins to keep playoff pace
PREDICTIONS:
(in no particular order)
1. WINDRAWWIN.COM ... SOUNDERS
Reporting an Away 0-1 win and the accurate predictor 'your votes' section shows 45% Seattle (24% Crew).
2. WHOSCORED.COM ... SOUNDERS
Adding in a new one this week with WhoScored.com. They have all the data and he has all the data wins, after all. They like Seattle today 2-1 over the Crew.
3. MASSIVE REPORT ... SOUNDERS
Patrick Guldan, the Editor and Chief of the site I contribute, thinks Seattle has the upper hand today, "Seattle is starting to find their stride and the Crew are nearly to the point were only pride is on the line." Go check out his preview.
4. MLSSOCCER.COM ... SOUNDERS
We've got 5 of the 6 picking Seattle with the other picking a Draw. Matt Doyle still leads the bunch with nearly 50% (116/239) accuracy. That's pretty remarkable actually.
5. GOAL.COM ... NO LEAN, EVEN
Thomas Floyd is on the call for this preview and once again the Crew get a short write up. Floyd doesn't show a lean either way today, "Clint Dempsey will look for his first goal in a Sounders uniform as Seattle travels to face a Crew side without Federico Higuain." However, the prediction poll does lean Seattle.
6. BET365 ... EVEN
We've got both the Crew and Sounders at 13/8 odds (23/10 draw) here today. Most likely scoreline is 1-1.
7. HOME TEAM ... CREW
8. TABLE POSITION ... SOUNDERS
9. WVHOOLIGAN.COM ... SOUNDERS
"...with Columbus missing Federico Higuain in this one, I just don’t see them staying with the Sounders," say's league watcher Drew Epperley. Score prediction? 2-1 Seattle.
10. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... SOUNDERS (LEAN)
Last up on the list today, but certainly not least, is team beat writer Adam Jardy's thoughts... "These teams appear to be headed in decidedly different directions."
MY THOUGHTS:
Crew fans will finally get to see how the team plays without Federico Higuain. Personally, I think there will not be too much change. Nothing to do with Higuain's quality as a player (he's one of the best in North America) and more to do with how the Crew are set up tactically.
Seattle hasn't been all that great on the road this year and it is hard to expect much different until they prove different. They do have that notable recent event of Clint Dempsey signing up as well as Clint playing again at Crew Stadium on September 10th.
A motivated Dempsey is an extremely dangerous Dempsey. Chad Marshall and Josh Williams will have their hands full today (in the understatement of the year).
With Higuain out, many are expecting college draft pick and scorer of 8 goals in the reserves Ryan Finley to get the nod. I gotta admit, I am excited about this idea.
Finley knows his way around the 18 yard box and has scored tons of goals at all levels in this country. Now it's time to see if he can do it on the MLS level.
Seattle are the clear favorites and they have the talent to completely over run the Crew in the midfield. Can the Crew pull out a huge upset in front of a packed house? Should be a fun watch.
Enjoy the game.
GAME NOTES:
-CLB: Higuian out next 2
-CLB: Ryan Finley expected to start
-CLB: Lost last week 4-0 away to RSL
-SEA: Only 1 quality road win this year (5-15 SKC)
-SEA: 6 Red Cards in 12 away fixtures
-SEA: Important match, need wins to keep playoff pace
PREDICTIONS:
(in no particular order)
1. WINDRAWWIN.COM ... SOUNDERS
Reporting an Away 0-1 win and the accurate predictor 'your votes' section shows 45% Seattle (24% Crew).
2. WHOSCORED.COM ... SOUNDERS
Adding in a new one this week with WhoScored.com. They have all the data and he has all the data wins, after all. They like Seattle today 2-1 over the Crew.
3. MASSIVE REPORT ... SOUNDERS
Patrick Guldan, the Editor and Chief of the site I contribute, thinks Seattle has the upper hand today, "Seattle is starting to find their stride and the Crew are nearly to the point were only pride is on the line." Go check out his preview.
4. MLSSOCCER.COM ... SOUNDERS
We've got 5 of the 6 picking Seattle with the other picking a Draw. Matt Doyle still leads the bunch with nearly 50% (116/239) accuracy. That's pretty remarkable actually.
5. GOAL.COM ... NO LEAN, EVEN
Thomas Floyd is on the call for this preview and once again the Crew get a short write up. Floyd doesn't show a lean either way today, "Clint Dempsey will look for his first goal in a Sounders uniform as Seattle travels to face a Crew side without Federico Higuain." However, the prediction poll does lean Seattle.
6. BET365 ... EVEN
We've got both the Crew and Sounders at 13/8 odds (23/10 draw) here today. Most likely scoreline is 1-1.
7. HOME TEAM ... CREW
8. TABLE POSITION ... SOUNDERS
9. WVHOOLIGAN.COM ... SOUNDERS
"...with Columbus missing Federico Higuain in this one, I just don’t see them staying with the Sounders," say's league watcher Drew Epperley. Score prediction? 2-1 Seattle.
10. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... SOUNDERS (LEAN)
Last up on the list today, but certainly not least, is team beat writer Adam Jardy's thoughts... "These teams appear to be headed in decidedly different directions."
MY THOUGHTS:
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| Rouge Fire Hydrant (pic @AdamJardy) |
Seattle hasn't been all that great on the road this year and it is hard to expect much different until they prove different. They do have that notable recent event of Clint Dempsey signing up as well as Clint playing again at Crew Stadium on September 10th.
A motivated Dempsey is an extremely dangerous Dempsey. Chad Marshall and Josh Williams will have their hands full today (in the understatement of the year).
With Higuain out, many are expecting college draft pick and scorer of 8 goals in the reserves Ryan Finley to get the nod. I gotta admit, I am excited about this idea.
Finley knows his way around the 18 yard box and has scored tons of goals at all levels in this country. Now it's time to see if he can do it on the MLS level.
Seattle are the clear favorites and they have the talent to completely over run the Crew in the midfield. Can the Crew pull out a huge upset in front of a packed house? Should be a fun watch.
Enjoy the game.
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Predictions: Crew (A) v RSL
Good Morning,
The Crew play away to Real Salt Lake today. Kickoff is at 9:30 PM EST, 7:30 MDT.
GAME NOTES:
-CLB: Lost 5 straight on the road
-CLB: Worst 6 game road form in MLS
-CLB: Anor, Meram Out (starters in last 2 wins)
-RSL: 4-1-1 +7 GD in last 6
-RSL: Rimando, Beckerman, Saborio should be in lineup
-RSL: Only two loses at Rio Tinto this year.
GAME PREDICTIONS
(In no particular order)
1. WV HOOLIGAN ... RSL
"RSL looks to get back on track here as they pursue the Supporters’ Shield trophy". Drew Epperley's prediction: RSL 3, Columbus 1.
2. BET365 ... RSL
Strong odds for Real Salt Lake today at 3/5 (Draw 14/5, Crew 19/4).
3. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... (lean) RSL
The tone of Adam Jardy's "How it might play out" summary certainly suggests that RSL is the team to beat tonight but he does mention the fact that RSL have played three games in seven days. Pick up a paper if you are in town. If you are out of town? Good luck on navigating this paper's website.
4. TABLE ... RSL
5. HOME TEAM ... RSL
6. MLSSOCCER.COM ... RSL
Real Salt Lake across the board. "Armchair Analyst" Matt Doyle still leading the way over there (111 of 230 correct, picking result).
7. GOAL.COM ... CREW
Surprising one line summary from regular Keith Hickey today... "RSL will have to overcome history and the hot foot of Federico Higuain to stay comfortable in first place." On top of that and for the first time all year there is a actual preview write up of the match. Reader prediction has RSL 68%.
8. WINDRAWWIN.COM ... RSL
Large Stake on Home Win, 2-0 and the 'your votes' section is heavy RSL (56%). Crew only getting 12% of the vote.
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MY GAME THOUGHTS
Despite recent success at Rio Tinto, it's gonna be a tough one for the Crew tonight. Not having Bernardo Anor in the lineup (fatigue) is likely going to force Robert Warzycha back into his two holding mid shell.
If that's the case then Federico Higuain (scorer of all four goals in last two wins) will go back to being jammed up and chasing the game.
Real Salt Lake is a good team this year. A very good team. And they will be hungry tonight to stay in the race for 1st place in the league now that we are in the home stretch.
Personally, I really, really which Anor was in this lineup and the Crew were facing them as an in form side because a win would sell me on how good this team can (could've) be (been).
Later start tonight allows me some time to catch afternoon show of "The World's End". Pretty excited about that.
Enjoy the game.
The Crew play away to Real Salt Lake today. Kickoff is at 9:30 PM EST, 7:30 MDT.
GAME NOTES:
-CLB: Lost 5 straight on the road
-CLB: Worst 6 game road form in MLS
-CLB: Anor, Meram Out (starters in last 2 wins)
-RSL: 4-1-1 +7 GD in last 6
-RSL: Rimando, Beckerman, Saborio should be in lineup
-RSL: Only two loses at Rio Tinto this year.
GAME PREDICTIONS
(In no particular order)
1. WV HOOLIGAN ... RSL
"RSL looks to get back on track here as they pursue the Supporters’ Shield trophy". Drew Epperley's prediction: RSL 3, Columbus 1.
2. BET365 ... RSL
Strong odds for Real Salt Lake today at 3/5 (Draw 14/5, Crew 19/4).
3. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... (lean) RSL
The tone of Adam Jardy's "How it might play out" summary certainly suggests that RSL is the team to beat tonight but he does mention the fact that RSL have played three games in seven days. Pick up a paper if you are in town. If you are out of town? Good luck on navigating this paper's website.
4. TABLE ... RSL
5. HOME TEAM ... RSL
6. MLSSOCCER.COM ... RSL
Real Salt Lake across the board. "Armchair Analyst" Matt Doyle still leading the way over there (111 of 230 correct, picking result).
7. GOAL.COM ... CREW
Surprising one line summary from regular Keith Hickey today... "RSL will have to overcome history and the hot foot of Federico Higuain to stay comfortable in first place." On top of that and for the first time all year there is a actual preview write up of the match. Reader prediction has RSL 68%.
8. WINDRAWWIN.COM ... RSL
Large Stake on Home Win, 2-0 and the 'your votes' section is heavy RSL (56%). Crew only getting 12% of the vote.
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MY GAME THOUGHTS
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| Can't stop looking at this pic. |
If that's the case then Federico Higuain (scorer of all four goals in last two wins) will go back to being jammed up and chasing the game.
Real Salt Lake is a good team this year. A very good team. And they will be hungry tonight to stay in the race for 1st place in the league now that we are in the home stretch.
Personally, I really, really which Anor was in this lineup and the Crew were facing them as an in form side because a win would sell me on how good this team can (could've) be (been).
Later start tonight allows me some time to catch afternoon show of "The World's End". Pretty excited about that.
Enjoy the game.
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Predictions: Crew (H) v Toronto
There is a soccer match tonight at Crew Stadium as the Major League Soccer franchises from Ohio (USA) and Ontario (Canada) fight for Great Lake Erie Superiority (GLES). Kickoff is at 7:30 PM EST or 11:30 PM GMT.
GAME NOTES
-CLB: Home form last six = 13th in MLS
-CLB: less than 3% chance of making playoffs, trying new things
-CLB: GK Gruenebuam likely out again.
-TFC: Away form last six = 8th in MLS
-TFC: Getting better but trying new things
GAME PREDICTIONS
(In no particular order)
1. MLSSOCCER.COM ... TORONTO FC
In a bit of a surprise the Pick 'em team thinks that TFC will take this one. 4 of 6 saying so (1 Crew, 1 draw).
2. WV HOOLIGAN ... COLUMBUS CREW
Drew Epperley likes the Crew straight up, "...no surprises here as they win a rivalry game at home." Crew 2:0 Reds
3. BET 365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Home team getting better than even odds today (8/11) followed up with 5/2 draw and 4/1 TFC. Two most likely scorelines are 1:0 Crew and 1:1 draw.
4. TABLE POSITION ... COLUMBUS CREW
5. GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW (LEAN)
Whoa.(!)? The author of the one line summary isn't listed today (my money is on Hickey though). Whomever it might be, they like the Crew... "Columbus snapped a losing streak last week and will be looking to build on that win with another against TFC." Lower down the column sees fans picking the Crew to win (50%).
6. HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
7. WIN DRAW WIN ... DRAW
A little different here today. Large Stake is on a 1:1 draw and the Your Vote section follows suit as draw gets 41% majority. Columbus 26% and Toronto 31%.
8. DISPATCH ... COLUMBUS CREW (LEAN)
"The Crew is 0-4-2 after a victory this season, and Toronto seems to be the type of team to help end such a streak." - Man on the Crew beat, Adam Jardy.
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GAME THOUGHTS
I was thinking about adding form as one of the game predictors but decided against it (for now). Biggest reason is that the Crew have not won two games in a row since the middle of last year. They are now far and away leading the league in this very simple fact and that sort of overrides any short term form, right now.
Toronto was with them but they finally crossed that bridge three weeks ago. In fact, TFC have two wins and a draw in their last four. That puts them above the Crew as far as recent form.
So, form = TFC? Not really. Only one team in MLS is in road form right now. Sporting KC 11 pts / 6 games is tops then RSL with 10 in 6. Everyone else is below 8pts in 6.
Tonight is good opportunity for the Crew before they take their league worst road form (1 pt in last 6 games. Have allowed 15 goals and carry a -8 goal difference) on the road next week.
Anyhow, the above is why I'm not adding form to my list.
On to the match: Not looking for many changes to the Crew lineup this week. We'll probably see same formation as well with Trapp at the CDM and Anor playing the CM spot. There is a possibility that fans see Speas jump in over Meram, I guess. Otherwise it will be the regulars in Higuain, Arrieta, Oduro, Barson, Williams, Marshall and Viana rounding it out.
The lineup is fine. I think Oduro should be a weapon used coming off the bench if the team is down at the hour mark but it'll never happen. As it stands, the Crew don't really have anybody to bring on the shake it up in the middle and Ryan Finley is extremely green.
The Crew are built to jump up by a goal and then defend it through shear number of defensive players on the squad, if that goes off plan the team has trouble.
Tonight's game will be jumpy, choppy and foul riddled. Most matches involving the Crew are this way now. TFC only makes the preceding statement more likely. There is not sugar coating this game. It is a match between two teams way down the table.
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Less jumpy, choppy and foul riddled were the games filling up my screens this morning. Welcome back Premier League.
GAME NOTES
-CLB: Home form last six = 13th in MLS
-CLB: less than 3% chance of making playoffs, trying new things
-CLB: GK Gruenebuam likely out again.
-TFC: Away form last six = 8th in MLS
-TFC: Getting better but trying new things
GAME PREDICTIONS
(In no particular order)
1. MLSSOCCER.COM ... TORONTO FC
In a bit of a surprise the Pick 'em team thinks that TFC will take this one. 4 of 6 saying so (1 Crew, 1 draw).
2. WV HOOLIGAN ... COLUMBUS CREW
Drew Epperley likes the Crew straight up, "...no surprises here as they win a rivalry game at home." Crew 2:0 Reds
3. BET 365 ... COLUMBUS CREW
Home team getting better than even odds today (8/11) followed up with 5/2 draw and 4/1 TFC. Two most likely scorelines are 1:0 Crew and 1:1 draw.
4. TABLE POSITION ... COLUMBUS CREW
5. GOAL.COM ... COLUMBUS CREW (LEAN)
Whoa.(!)? The author of the one line summary isn't listed today (my money is on Hickey though). Whomever it might be, they like the Crew... "Columbus snapped a losing streak last week and will be looking to build on that win with another against TFC." Lower down the column sees fans picking the Crew to win (50%).
6. HOME TEAM ... COLUMBUS CREW
7. WIN DRAW WIN ... DRAW
A little different here today. Large Stake is on a 1:1 draw and the Your Vote section follows suit as draw gets 41% majority. Columbus 26% and Toronto 31%.
8. DISPATCH ... COLUMBUS CREW (LEAN)
"The Crew is 0-4-2 after a victory this season, and Toronto seems to be the type of team to help end such a streak." - Man on the Crew beat, Adam Jardy.
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GAME THOUGHTS
I was thinking about adding form as one of the game predictors but decided against it (for now). Biggest reason is that the Crew have not won two games in a row since the middle of last year. They are now far and away leading the league in this very simple fact and that sort of overrides any short term form, right now.
Toronto was with them but they finally crossed that bridge three weeks ago. In fact, TFC have two wins and a draw in their last four. That puts them above the Crew as far as recent form.
So, form = TFC? Not really. Only one team in MLS is in road form right now. Sporting KC 11 pts / 6 games is tops then RSL with 10 in 6. Everyone else is below 8pts in 6.
Tonight is good opportunity for the Crew before they take their league worst road form (1 pt in last 6 games. Have allowed 15 goals and carry a -8 goal difference) on the road next week.
Anyhow, the above is why I'm not adding form to my list.
On to the match: Not looking for many changes to the Crew lineup this week. We'll probably see same formation as well with Trapp at the CDM and Anor playing the CM spot. There is a possibility that fans see Speas jump in over Meram, I guess. Otherwise it will be the regulars in Higuain, Arrieta, Oduro, Barson, Williams, Marshall and Viana rounding it out.
The lineup is fine. I think Oduro should be a weapon used coming off the bench if the team is down at the hour mark but it'll never happen. As it stands, the Crew don't really have anybody to bring on the shake it up in the middle and Ryan Finley is extremely green.
The Crew are built to jump up by a goal and then defend it through shear number of defensive players on the squad, if that goes off plan the team has trouble.
Tonight's game will be jumpy, choppy and foul riddled. Most matches involving the Crew are this way now. TFC only makes the preceding statement more likely. There is not sugar coating this game. It is a match between two teams way down the table.
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Less jumpy, choppy and foul riddled were the games filling up my screens this morning. Welcome back Premier League.
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| Billy Sasquatch, Master English Breakfast Chef. |
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Predictions: Crew (H) v Red Bulls
Good Morning,
Nestled on the north east corner of the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair Grounds you'll find Crew Stadium and at 7:30 PM tonight NY Red Bulls are there playing soccer.
GAME NOTES
-CLB: 9 games since a draw
-CLB: Likely lineup changes/shakeup
-CLB: 16th in league
-NY: Only 3 clean sheets away this year
-NY: Looking to keep pace for Supporters' Shield
-NY: 3 Wins, 2 Draw in last 5.
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PREDICTIONS
(In no particular order)
1. WVHOOLIGAN.COM ... NY RED BULLS
"Sometimes when your backs are up against a wall you fight hard, that is what I am hoping to see out of the Crew in this one. The thing is, I’m not expecting it." - Drew Epperley. He thinks the final will be 2:1 NY.
2. WINDRAWWIN.COM ... NY RED BULLS
Large Stake on Away Win, 0:1 and NY gets 51% of the 'Your Votes' to win (29% Draw, 19% Crew).
3. MLSSOCCER.COM ... NY RED BULLS
MLS Team Pick 'em Six sees four votes for NY and the other two going Draw.
4. GOAL.COM ... NY RED BULLS
Keith Hickey on the mic today with the one line game preview: "New York is riding high, and victory over Robert Warzycha's side could put Mike Petke's men top of MLS." Also, further down the page NY is getting over 80% of the fan's predictions.
5. BET365.COM ... NY RED BULLS
First time this year that the Crew are not favored at home. While parity might exist within records on the table the back half of the season the betting lines become more predictive. Parity in MLS is a falsity. The league is more interested in burning teams down in the offseason and having them pick up the pieces during the 1st half of the year. By this time, the order of things is more or less set. 11/8 Red Bulls, 2/1 Crew (9/4 Draw).
6. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... LEAN NY RED BULLS
Adam Jardy puts it best this week, "New York has shown a propensity to not show up on occasion, meaning the Crew has a chance at an upset, but predicting anything but a Red Bulls win would be blind optimism."
7. TABLE POSITION ... NY RED BULLS
8. HOME TEAM ... CREW
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MY THOUGHTS
The Crew are on a bad enough run that it is okay to start making sweeping generalizations and conclusions. One big one that will dog this franchise for years to come is stumbling through league expansion since 2009, not correcting and finding themselves in 16th place in the league. Not just in 2013 standing but as an overall organization.
Not correcting has put this team back at square one with new owner Anthony Precourt and ismysterious merry group of investors. Previous ownership allowed roots to run too deep and pulling them up will be difficult.
Now, with all that good cheer out of the way it will be refreshing for many to once again roll the ball out and play some soccer.
The Crew are still in a limbo period but I fully expect the players to give it their all tonight. Key to this match: Andy Gruenebaum is out again with a nagging shoulder injury and Matt Lampson is in.
Lampson proved last week that under sustained pressure he might let a few in so it will be important for the Crew backline to be solid tonight. Better than solid.
Should be an interesting and enjoyable game.
Nestled on the north east corner of the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair Grounds you'll find Crew Stadium and at 7:30 PM tonight NY Red Bulls are there playing soccer.
GAME NOTES
-CLB: 9 games since a draw
-CLB: Likely lineup changes/shakeup
-CLB: 16th in league
-NY: Only 3 clean sheets away this year
-NY: Looking to keep pace for Supporters' Shield
-NY: 3 Wins, 2 Draw in last 5.
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PREDICTIONS
(In no particular order)
1. WVHOOLIGAN.COM ... NY RED BULLS
"Sometimes when your backs are up against a wall you fight hard, that is what I am hoping to see out of the Crew in this one. The thing is, I’m not expecting it." - Drew Epperley. He thinks the final will be 2:1 NY.
2. WINDRAWWIN.COM ... NY RED BULLS
Large Stake on Away Win, 0:1 and NY gets 51% of the 'Your Votes' to win (29% Draw, 19% Crew).
3. MLSSOCCER.COM ... NY RED BULLS
MLS Team Pick 'em Six sees four votes for NY and the other two going Draw.
4. GOAL.COM ... NY RED BULLS
Keith Hickey on the mic today with the one line game preview: "New York is riding high, and victory over Robert Warzycha's side could put Mike Petke's men top of MLS." Also, further down the page NY is getting over 80% of the fan's predictions.
5. BET365.COM ... NY RED BULLS
First time this year that the Crew are not favored at home. While parity might exist within records on the table the back half of the season the betting lines become more predictive. Parity in MLS is a falsity. The league is more interested in burning teams down in the offseason and having them pick up the pieces during the 1st half of the year. By this time, the order of things is more or less set. 11/8 Red Bulls, 2/1 Crew (9/4 Draw).
6. COLUMBUS DISPATCH ... LEAN NY RED BULLS
Adam Jardy puts it best this week, "New York has shown a propensity to not show up on occasion, meaning the Crew has a chance at an upset, but predicting anything but a Red Bulls win would be blind optimism."
7. TABLE POSITION ... NY RED BULLS
8. HOME TEAM ... CREW
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MY THOUGHTS
Not correcting has put this team back at square one with new owner Anthony Precourt and is
Now, with all that good cheer out of the way it will be refreshing for many to once again roll the ball out and play some soccer.
The Crew are still in a limbo period but I fully expect the players to give it their all tonight. Key to this match: Andy Gruenebaum is out again with a nagging shoulder injury and Matt Lampson is in.
Lampson proved last week that under sustained pressure he might let a few in so it will be important for the Crew backline to be solid tonight. Better than solid.
Should be an interesting and enjoyable game.
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