Chivas USA will try to start another unbeaten streak when they visit the Columbus Crew on Saturday (7:30 pm ET, Matchday Live/Direct Kick). This game will complete the season series against Columbus, and Chivas will surely hope this match kick-starts another unbeaten streak in their season. The last time around, on April 9, the two teams played to a 0-0 stalemate at the Home Depot Center. Although the lack of offense in that match made the play quite dull, it was an important point for Chivas, who were trying to get their season going, and contributed to a five game unbeaten streak. For all involved, it would be nice to see at least one goal this time around, but both teams boast good defenses and a defensive battle is quite likely.
In many respects, Columbus and Chivas have had parallel seasons. Both teams were essentially written off at the beginning of the year, with many believing they would be rebuilding and thus have very poor seasons. Contrary to expectations, however, both have performed quite well, with mid-table records (Chivas in 7th in the West, Columbus in 4th in the East, but Columbus is only one point ahead of Chivas overall) and earning the respect of observers around the league. While nobody would argue either team is yet prepared to compete for the Supporter’s Shield, there is reason for optimism around both fanbases. As a result, it should be a competitive match by two teams who believe they can win. Both teams will be playing to their strengths based on their records, with Columbus undefeated at home this season and Chivas with only one loss on the road. They are each also coming off a loss, and will be looking to capitalize on a team they have already played this season.
Chivas will likely revert to their gameplan that was successful against New York Red Bulls earlier this month, by pushing forward, holding possession, and being very active on the offensive end. This will be a tall task, as Columbus has had a strong defensive record and are giving up an average of only a goal a game. On the flip side, the Crew’s attack has been rather inconsistent, so Chivas could very well grab a victory with only one goal. Of course, to be safe, they should go for more! The injury situation remains the same for the Goats, although Midfielders Paulo Nagamura, Blair Gavin, Forward Tristan Bowen and Defender Seth Owusu participated in limited training this week and could be returning soon. Defenders Michael Lahoud and Jimmy Conrad are still out with post-concussion symptoms, and Midfielder Marcos Mondaini is still suspended, although he will be eligible to play again next weekend. For the Crew, the notable absence is Forward Emilio Renteria, who has been a bright spot early in the season offensively and will likely be missed. Designated Player Andres Mendoza, who has not impressed so far in his time in Columbus, may get a chance to prove he belongs in the line-up in Renteria’s absence.
Above all, this matchup is one where both teams are looking for a full three points. This may produce open play, or a reprisal of the dull draw last time around, but here’s hoping for an exciting match.
(image courtesy of Getty Images)
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
