By: Pasion Naranja
This week: the Islanders will be seeing action twice, traveling first to Texas and then to British Columbia; Montreal’s home opener; Miami gets a bye – giving them a chance to regroup from their second loss in a row.
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Puerto Rico Islanders vs Austin Aztex
The Islanders play their first away game of the season against the Aztex. Both these teams are 2 of the 3 remaining undefeated clubs (together with Charleston). Also, the Islanders played the Aztex to a scoreless draw in a friendly prior to their second semi-final CCL match.
What to expect: Strong Austin defense, Eddie Johnson scoring for the Aztex or at least getting some good attempts, Colin Clarke toying with the starting 11, Islanders win.
(Note: Keep an eye out for our detailed match preview later tonight)
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Rochester Rhinos vs Montreal Impact
The Rhinos have played well in their last two matches while the Impact are still looking for their first win of the season. Montreal will be looking to put on a good show for the home crowd and gain 3 points.
What to expect: Menyongar and Atieno to test the Impact defense, Montreal to avoid their 3rd loss in a row, Impact win.
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Portland Timbers vs Cleveland City Stars
Portland has made some clear improvements from last season while Cleveland continues to play poorly. Portland has only allowed 1 goal so far this season while Cleveland has allowed 3 per game with only 1 goal scored so far.
What to expect: Strong Portland defense, lackluster Cleveland defense, Timbers win.
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Charleston Battery vs Carolina RailHawks
Regional rivals Charleston and Carolina meet for the first time. The Battery remain undefeated but with just one win so far, while the RailHawks lost for the first time last week in Portland. Charleston’s defense has been solid, allowing just one goal allowed so far. The RailHawks have also had a pretty strong defense, with just 3 goals allowed so far in 5 games this season.
What to expect: Strong defense on both sides, Charleston will continue struggling in the scoring department, RailHawks win.
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Puerto Rico Islanders vs Vancouver Whitecaps
The Islanders are no strangers to tight traveling schedules, and with the team’s great roster depth it should be no problem for Clarke’s men face the Whitecaps on Sunday. The Whitecaps have only lost one game so far this season and are yet to allow a goal at home.
What to expect: Colin Clarke fielding a different starting 11 from what we’re used to, Vancouver coming out strong on the attack, Tie.
(Note: Keep an eye out for our detailed match preview later during the weekend)
