Major League Soccer returns this weekend with a full slate of fixtures as we dive into yet another set of high profile clashes. We’re still in the early stages of the campaign but we’re starting to get a feel for how a few teams are approaching the season, even though there’s still a long way to go. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be a fun game between Real Salt Lake and Columbus Crew.
Salt Lake Form GuideIn terms of the Western Conference, Real Salt Lake did a solid job of making their way up the table and earning a spot in the playoffs. When they got there, though, there were beaten by Houston in the first round, in a three-game series that saw two matches go to penalties. They have potential, and it’ll be interesting to see how they bounce back this time around.
Salt Lake drew with St Louis back at the end of February before earning a big 3-0 win at home to Los Angeles. They did go on to drop a 2-1 loss to Colorado but since then, they’ve been unbeaten, defeating Vancouver and St Louis before a 1-1 draw on the road to Minnesota.
Columbus Form GuideLast season, Columbus Crew once again proved why they’re one of the most revered franchises in all of Major League Soccer. Following a late run that saw them finish third in the Eastern Conference, the Crew managed to go deep into the playoffs, finishing off their run with an unforgettable and thrilling triumph over Los Angeles FC in the MLS Cup final.
After a 1-1 draw with Minnesota, Columbus secured nice wins over Chicago and NY Red Bulls. They did slip up in a 2-0 loss to Charlotte, though, and from there, they haven’t won since with a 2-2 draw against Nashville and a 1-1 draw vs DC to their name.
Match PredictionSalt Lake are a really solid team and it still feels like they’ve got room to level up between now and the end of the season. Alas, the visitors are the reigning champs for a reason, and they won’t be intimidated by this away day. For that reason, and a couple others, we’re going to shoot for a Columbus win.
