Soccer Goals: After predicting in the preseason that RSL would not qualify for the playoffs due to their poor play and lack of acquisitions, RSL overcame adversity, proving that miracles do happen landing in the 2009 MLS Cup. Although yielding below a .500 winning percentage, RSL caught Fire (no pun intended) at the right time defeating the 2008 Champions, Columbus Crew, and talented Chicago Fire. I'll admit that I was wrong for counting out a RSL side that appeared disfunctional one game and world beater the next. For my preseason predicition, I willingly eat crow and humble pie. LOL.
That being sad, both teams boast dangerous qualities on both sides of the ball. Despite having the most porous defense last season, the Galaxy have turned a 180' defensively with the additions of Greg Berhalter, Omar Gonzalez, and the reemergence of 2008 Rookie of the Year, Sean Franklin. Offensively, the yellow and blue boast the striking trio of David Beckham, Landon Donovan (2009 MLS MVP), and Edson Buddle.
Though their three pronged attack scares any top MLS defense, the Galaxy will prove vulnerable in two areas. In the center midfield -- where Davide Beckham will be suffering from a nagging ankle injury that will require an injection for his ailments causes real concern -- and the necessary defensive speed to neutralize the dynamic and speedy attacking sequences that RSL will unleash, the Galaxy might not realize their dream season.
Riding a big a wave momentum from their spirited playoff run, RSL boasts a dynamic team that passes well, while offering excellent team speed. The RSL midfield is packed with talented figures such as Beckerman, Morales, Williams, and Johnson, though not the status of Donovan or Beckham. Couple the midfield's creativity with the pace of Robbie Findley, Yura Movsysian, and Fabian Espindola presuming that he comes off the bench, the team possesses intriguing attributes to unsettle the slow but stable Galaxy defense.
In my opinion, two factors will ultimately grant RSL the advantage and title. First, RSL's attacking speed will cause problems for LA all night, as they have struggled against speedy teams (see FC Dallas' 6-2 victory in Home Depot Center). Who will matchup with Robbie Findley and Yura Movsysian's menacing runs? I think that answer is fairly self explanatory.
Secondly, playing on a wide, synthetic and slick pitch should favor RSL, as they will utilize their width and quick one-touch passing to stretch out the team and its shape. Although a fairy tail ending would provide an excellent jolt of excitement to the US soccer community, if David Beckham and Landon Donovan fight against the odds and return the trophy back to Los Angeles. Unfortunatly, for the marketing geniuses and those looking to grow the sport domestically, their hopes will be diminished by a 2-1 RSL victory in extra time. Findley and Beckerman score goals to bring RSL their first Championship. Findley wins the MLS MVP trophy.
Who do you believe will win? What will the score be? Share your thoughts.
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