3 Things to Watch In MLS: Has Dallas Turned it Around?
By Eric Harris
After an absolutely insane midweek slate, the weekend’s games are even more important. Here are a few things we’re watching for this weekend in MLS play.
1.Has FC Dallas Turned the Corner?
FC Dallas got their first win in 10 matches and it came at a time of desperation for Oscar Pareja’s team. No, was it just getting to play a hapless Colorado team, or is it the start of a turn around? They have a big task this weekend to prove they are the team they were at the beginning of the season, playing in Orlando.
Orlando has been a much improved team in the past few matches, they scored six against a 10-man New England Revolution. Right now FC Dallas is just one point above the red line. They are ahead of both Houston and San Jose who have more difficult schedules than they do. Dallas can limp their way into the playoffs, but they will want to get some good momentum heading into the knockout round where anything can happen.
2. Can Anyone Take Advantage of NYRB’s Struggles?
It seems like the Red Bulls are trying to give away their final spot in the MLS playoffs. They are winless in seven matches but no one is taking advantage. Montreal are best suited to take advantage, they play Colorado this weekend. For all their struggles New England and Orlando are still somehow only five points back. This weekend New York has to play Toronto, so the teams behind them will see this weekend as a huge opportunity to gain ground.
New England has to play a red hot Atlanta team, but they get to do so at home where they are 11-2-2 this year. Orlando has that previously mentioned game against Dallas, which has huge ramifications for both. If Montreal can pull it together and get a road win, they could only be one point behind in the home stretch.
Must Read: Who wins the Western Conference?
3. Will Atlanta Catch NYCFC?
It seemed like a huge ask a couple of months ago, but Atlanta has reeled off a 6-0-2 undefeated streak and launched themselves up the table. Playing New England this weekend may not feel like a huge challenge, but the Revs have proven to be very difficult to beat at home.
NYCFC will need to beat a Chicago team trying to keep home field in the knockout round. The Fire are coming of a big road victory and will be difficult to beat. I still think NYC keeps the second spot, but this late charge by Atlanta has made things very interesting in the Eastern Conference.