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MLS Week 6: Top 6 storylines – Can Sporting KC recover?

By Joshua Bowers

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 29: James Sands (16) of New York City FC battles for the ball against Alejandro Pozuelo (10) of Toronto FC during the first half of the MLS regular season match between Toronto FC and New York City FC on March 29, 2019, at BMO Field in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - MARCH 29: James Sands (16) of New York City FC battles for the ball against Alejandro Pozuelo (10) of Toronto FC during the first half of the MLS regular season match between Toronto FC and New York City FC on March 29, 2019, at BMO Field in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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SAN JOSE, CA – MARCH 09: Minnesota United midfielder Jan Gregus (8) reacts to a missed shot during the MLS match between the Minnesota United and the San Jose Earthquakes at Avaya Stadium on March 9, 2019 in San Jose, CA. (Photo by Cody Glenn/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
SAN JOSE, CA – MARCH 09: Minnesota United midfielder Jan Gregus (8) reacts to a missed shot during the MLS match between the Minnesota United and the San Jose Earthquakes at Avaya Stadium on March 9, 2019 in San Jose, CA. (Photo by Cody Glenn/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

2. Playoff candidates need to bounce back

The New York Red Bulls face Minnesota United FC at home this week. Both teams began the season well. The Red Bulls earned four points their first two matches, while Minnesota won their first two matches on the road. Unfortunately, both teams have since skidded, losing their last two matches. They each have the opportunity to get back on track at the expense of the other this week.

The Red Bulls lose a star player every season. Last year, it was Sacha Klejstan. This year, it is Tyler Adams. Adams is thriving in the Bundesliga, but the Red Bulls have done a good job of holding in midfield with Sean Davis and Marc Rzatkowski.

The Red Bulls’ greatest struggle so far this season has been in their attack. They have just five goals in four matches, and star striker, Bradley Wright-Phillips, has just a single goal. It does not help that Florian Valot, returning this season from knee injury, has already injured his other knee, and will miss the remainder of the year. The Red Bulls have a next-man-up mentality in regards to their young players at the USL and academy level. However, they need to show the ability to score consistently.

Minnesota United, meanwhile, started strong but dropped three points to the New England Revolution last week. Darwin Quintero looked like an early MVP candidate two weeks into the season, but he has not gotten enough support from his teammates. At their best, Minnesota is a well-rounded team with a strong backline, ball-winners in midfield, and an attack led by the dynamic Quintero. They have a big test this week on the road against the Red Bulls. But, they have done their best work on the road so far this season. Do not count them out just yet.

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