Los Angeles Galaxy vs. New York Red Bulls: 10 Bold Predictions
May 19, 2013; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls midfielder Tim Cahill (17) (center) celebrates scoring the game winning goal during the second half against the Los Angeles Galaxy at Red Bulls Arena. Red Bulls won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
One of the biggest matches of the month of September awaits us. Well, it’s actually the last MLS match of the month, but as the old saying goes, we’re saving the best for last. Mike Petke’s New York Red Bulls are hitting their form late, and while they might not be defending their MLS Supporters’ Shield this year, they are closing in on returning to the MLS Cup Playoffs. In their way stand Bruce Arena’s Los Angeles Galaxy, a team that has already clinched a spot and will look to chase the Seattle Sounders for the Shield.
Kickoff at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. on Sept. 28 is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. PT/8:30 p.m. ET and will be televised by ESPN2, Watch ESPN, ESPN Deportes and TSN2. Here are 10 Bold Predictions for Sunday’s tilt between the Los Angeles Galaxy and New York Red Bulls.
1. At least 45 fouls and four cards
A tough, physical battle between two of the top teams in Major League Soccer is on the cards. We think there’s gonna be a lot of physical play, and here at the MLS Multiplex, we’re calling for at least 45 fouls whistled and four cards issued.
2. At least five saves from Luis Robles
New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Luis Robles has 98 saves to his credit and will go past 100 for the season on Sunday. The Plex boldly predicts at least five saves from Robles.
3. Under five saves from Jaime Penedo
This will be a tough ask for Jaime Penedo, who has 70 saves to his name. Penedo will make under five saves on Sunday night against the Red Bulls.
4. Bradley Wright-Phillips with a brace
We think Bradley Wright-Phillips will be the MVP of the league this season. Also, we also think he will be heading back to England after this season’s over. For this game, look for BWP to record at least a brace against Los Angeles.
5. Thierry Henry will score
Thierry Henry has nine goals and 13 assists to his name, and in his final game at StubHub Center (unless both teams in the MLS Cup Final), watch for Henry to record and a goal and an assist to lead the Red Bulls.
6. Landon Donovan with a goal and an assist
Landon Donovan has nine goals and 15 assists this season and is one of the league’s top providers. Watch for Donovan to get on the score sheet and move closer to Steve Ralston’s record with a goal and an assist.
7. Gyasi Zardes gets on board
Gyasi Zardes is tied for the most goals on the Los Angeles Galaxy first team with 15. On Sunday against New York, Zardes will get another one through and make it 16 on the year.
8. An assist for Robbie Keane
Robbie Keane will not score in this game, due to his inconsistent form this season. His touch is going to betray him on Sunday and all he will get is an assist for his efforts.
9. Lloyd Sam with an assist
A member of New York’s supporting cast to watch is Lloyd Sam, who has eight assists to his credit and is the team’s second-leading provider with Eric Alexander. Sam will record an assist in the second half against Los Angeles.
10. New York wins a thriller over LA
The New York Red Bulls have been on a winstreak against Los Angeles in recent years. Because of the history against LA, the MLS Multiplex believes that the Red Bulls are going to keep that win streak going on Sunday, but it won’t be easy.
New York Red Bulls 3, Los Angeles Galaxy 2