With the Saturday night clash coming up between RSL and the LA Galaxy, all eyes will be focused on the tele, as these two successful and different style teams go for the full points. With that said, my fellow Total-MLS writer Johnathon Sykes, has agreed to give me and RSL fans a look of what LA fans are think coming into this important match and the rest of the season.
David Dillman (DD): What's your thoughts, predictions, and analysis of Saturday's nights match-up?
Johnathon Sykes (JS): It depends on what defense shows up against LA. RSL are no pushovers and there's a reason why they're at the top of the Western Conference standings. I still think with the way Landon Donovan has played over the last month, LA has a reasonable chance to win if the backline isn't a complete mess.
DD: Which system do you think works better in MLS, big named DP teams or RSL's team is the star system?
JS: I honestly think both are the way to go. For all the criticism that LA gets with their DP's, some of LA's best players over the last 2-3 years haven't been DP's. Omar Gonzalez and Juninho are two example of non-DP players doing a great job with LA over that time span. RSL has done a great job of stacking talent without breaking the bank as well.
DD: With the forward position, do you think youngsters are good attacking threats in MLS?
JS: Both of the youngsters (on the Galaxy) have been lacking but you have to remember they are rookies. Zardes' finishing has been maddening at times but then you see the goal he scored against Vancouver and you see what his skill can become. I expect Donovan to eventually play up top along side Keane again but don't count Villareal or Zardes out at this point.
DD: With the playoffs in sight, how do you think LA Galaxy will do without the goals from Mr. November?
JS: Goals are at a premium for LA right now and the playoffs will be no different. I would EXPECT Donovan and Keane to be more than enough but we're going to need output from other sources. Magee is and will be missed, but I don't think that means LA is no less dangerous in the playoffs. Who knows? maybe someone else will step up and play the Magee role.
DD: And, finally your prediction of the scoreline of Saturday's night match?
JS: I expect LA to play as well as they had against Dallas, but I am a bit worried defensively about the Galaxy. I would expect a 2-1 victory against RSL.
RSL and LA are playing 8:30 MDT on ABC 4. With a win, RSL can get a strong lead in the Western Conference and also the Supporters Shield race. With the playoffs on the horizon these points are crucial to to see how the playoffs will be structured.
(image courtesy of mlssoccer.com)
