MLS Soccer Predictions – Philadelphia Union vs New York Red Bulls
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Onto the week’s MLS preview and prediction for the week.
Matchup: Philadelphia Union vs. New York Red Bulls
Date: Saturday, April 9
Time: Kick-off: 7:00 PM EST
Venue: PPL Park in Chester, PA.
TV: ESPN2/ESPND
MLS Fixture Betting Lines and Odds from Betus
Money Line: Philadelphia (+150) New York (+165) Draw (+215)
Spread: OFF
Over/Under: OFF
Click Here for MLS MATCHUP Stats —>
The Philadelphia Union will look to get back on the rails and remain atop the MLS Eastern Conference as they host the New York Red Bulls — one of the favorites to bring home year’s MLS Cup— in a real East Coast derby at PPL Park on Saturday night.
The Red Bulls are still undefeated on the young season, and are currently coming off a disappointing home draw against Houston. New York controlled play throughout the first ¾ of the match and opened the scoring early in the second half thanks to newly acquired Canadian international Dwayne De Rosario.
De Rosario didn’t take long to make his mark in the Big Apple, coming on at halftime against the Dynamo, then serving up Dane Richards, who was able to get behind the Houston back line, firing a hard shot past goalkeeper Tally Hall in the 47th minute.
But they euphoria was quickly deflated as Houston responded with the equalizer just three minutes later when Will Bruin flicked a header past the New York backline and onto the foot of Cam Weaver who lofted a shot over keeper Bouna Coundoul who was well off his line.
New York has five points from three games, and is sitting in a tie for second place in the Eastern Conference.
Meanwhile, the Union dropped their first game in their first three starts of the season, losing 1-0 to the LA Galaxy on Saturday evening at The Home Depot Center.
David Beckham’s free kick at the 33rd minute whistled into the penalty area and was redirected on a header by Leonardo, caroming off the right post and past Philadelphia net minder Faryd Mondragon. The Union became the final team in MLS to concede a goal this season. 
The Union was not able to register a single shot on goal against Los Angeles, only attempting four shots total — all of which were after the 50th minute. That will have to change.
Philadelphia will not only need to play solid defense against the Red bulls, but will also need to do a better job offensively, getting the ball wide, moving the ball forward, and holding the ball for more than just one or two passes. Extended periods of possession will keep the pressure away from their back line, who has been working overtime in its last two matches.
As for New York, they too will need to step it up offensively. Statistically, the Red Bulls have had trouble generating a large number quality offensive chances in their first few matches. It they cannot put pressure on the Union defenders, they are likely to have a rough night in the City of Brotherly Love.
The all time series between these two sides is tied, with each team winning one on their home pitch 2-1 last season.
Matt’s Free Prediction: Philadelphia 2, Red Bulls 1.
Matt Martz is a sportswriter for the Bakersfield Californian, the Oregonian, Springfield Republican, Sacramento Bee, and the San Diego Union Tribune. I leave handicapping to the pros. Blessed is the gambler who expects nothing, for ye shall not be disappointed.
