The New York Red Bulls will finally return home after a good amount of time on the road. The Red Bulls will be hosting the San Jose Earthquakes after two consecutive road matches against the New England Revolution. The Red Bulls had much success in snagging victories in both matches and will be looking to continue their good form as they return to Red Bull Arena.
New York Red Bulls vs. San Jose Earthquakes Preview
Three Things to Watch
Felipe
Felipe has been one of the Red Bulls most underrated players all season. Fresh off a new contract, he has wasted little time in rewarding the Red Bulls for their faith. Felipe had the game-winning assist in both of the Red Bulls previous two meetings with the Revolution. The Brazilian number eight also continues to be a rock in the defensive midfield for the team. He has continually to be one of the Red Bulls most consistent option, missing only nine minutes of MLS play so far this season. His hot form of late has certainly given the Red Bulls a much needed lift.
Great Form
The Red Bulls are on a good run of form after the roller coaster start to the season. They have won six of their last eight matches across all competitions. They currently find themselves in the U.S Open Cup semifinals after defeating the New England Revolution for the second time in the span of a week. Despite being below the red line, they have played two less matches then both the teams in front of them. They only trail Columbus Crew SC by one and Orlando City SC by three points. The Red Bulls could easily see themselves vaulted into the playoff picture if they continue their solid play of late.
Western Conference Woes
Despite the Red Bulls success against Eastern Conference opponents, it has been the exact opposite against the West. They have just four points out of a possible 18 this season against the West. The lone win came back in early march when the Red Bulls defeated the Colorado Rapids 1-0. With the Red Bulls having back-to-back matches coming up against teams from the Western Conference, it is imperative that they get results in these matches.
Predicted Starting XI
Prediction
The Red Bulls are facing a San Jose Earthquakes side that has had a fair share of success this season. The Earthquakes currently sit fifth in the Western Conference Standings. They seem to be playing quite well under new manager Chris Leitch. The Red Bulls will need to execute their press successfully. In the three match win streak they are on, they have done a really good job at forcing turnovers by pressing high up the field. If the Red Bulls do this successfully they should be able to extend this win streak to four matches across all competitions. Red Bulls pick up the victory by a score of 3-1.
