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The Playoff Picture Starts to come Together

© Corey Arnold

As we come into this weekend, one thing is pretty clear. We will most likely know who the sixth playoff team will be at the end of this Labor Day weekend.

As it sits right now, New England has 42 points and Dallas and Colorado both have 40. If New England wins and either Columbus loses, or Colorado loses or ties, New England will be in. In another interesting twist of the new playoff arrangement, Miami will be out if they lose and Columbus and Colorado win.

Although some may feel that the game between the Crew and the Quakes in San Jose would be a done deal for a Crew win, remember that the Quakes are tough at home. Also keep in mind that the Crew will be without Brian Mcbride and several other key players. Of course San Jose will be as well, but they are playing at home. This one could definitely go either way.

The Metrostars will travel to Miami for a match that doesn't do much for them. The Metros have already clinched the top spot in the East. A win may be of help in the playoff race. They will be missing some key players in Tab Ramos and Mike Ammann, but this is also a good opportunity to get some younger players in the mix. Look for Miami to fight hard in this last home stand of the season. Its going to be a close one.

Tampa Bay has one point over KC, but KC has a game in hand and is hosting the Mutiny this Saturday. The Wizards have been hurting on offense, but their defense, with Meola in the nets, has been the best. The defense will be tested by Diallo and the Mutiny offense. This is also KC's last home match of the regular season. I would look for KC to pull out a squeaker.

In an interesting match of two different teams, New England will travel to DC to face the United. United is having their worst season ever, and the Revs are having their best. In addition to this, the United will be without almost their entire starting lineup. Nine key starters will be missing due to national team duties or injuries. The Revs will be without Wolde Harris, but I would expect them to be just overpowering for the depleted United.

Although Colorado has not exactly been a scoring machine this season, they have been able to get it done against Chicago. This weekend they will travel to Chicago to take on the Fire and fight for some much needed points for the playoff race. Colorado is still on the bubble for a spot. Chicago is looking to move higher in the potetnial standings and Colorado will be one of their best chances for a win.

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