Back To Reality: Rivals DC in Town

By: Dave Martinez | August 8th, 2008

With the dark red and blue colors of Barcelona pouring out of my ears at this point, it is my pleasure to turn our attentions back to the MLS season and a huge upcoming rivalry game. The resurgent DC United is in town, looking to quell the hopes of their Red Bull rivals. As always, this derby brings out the best (and worst) in both teams, and I am personally looking forward to taking in a very competitive game.

Though a much better team than earlier in the season, DC has had its issues. Gallardo, Doe, and Olsen, among others, are out. Santino Quaranta is just coming off injury, but will be made available. Meanwhile, the Red Bulls midsummer woes continue without speed demon Dane Richards in the lineup. At this point, the Bulls wretched scoring issues continue, scoring a goal or less 13 of the past 14 games. They are counting on the infusion of Cichero and Pietravallo to calm the field this weekend, and perhaps create the opportunity the offense needs to score.

This is where they stack up right now:

New York Red Bulls …… 18 Games, 5 Wins 6 Loses 7 Ties, 22 Points -8 Goal Differential tied for last with TFC and KC

And DC United, former bottom dwellers of the East?

D.C. United …… 17 Games, 8 Wins 8 Loses 1 Tie 25 Points – + 2 Goal Differential

With a game in hand, DC has scored 11 more goals than the Red Bulls, have lost two more games, and still leads in the East by 3 points. Take that in for a minute.

At this time in the season, every game counts. The Red Bulls can pull back into contention with a win Sunday. Can they stop Luciano Emilio at home?

PREDICTION: Red Bulls 3 – DC United 0

Why? Because they havent scored three all season. And DC won the first one 4-1. Thats why.