Published Mar 21, 3:44am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Mar 21, 3:44am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Mar 21, 3:44am ET
Two teams searching for consistency in the MLS will collide on March 22, as the LA Galaxy travel to the Portland Timbers.
The Galaxy and the Timbers have both recorded just a single win in the opening four rounds of fixtures. However, a victory for either would put them in the playoff spots before the upcoming international break.
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|
|---|---|
| Portland | +119 |
| The Draw | +259 |
| LA Galaxy | +218 |
The Portland Timbers had enjoyed a strong start to the season with a win over the Columbus Crew on MD1.
However, their form has dropped off since that opening night success after losing each of their last three. Defensive issues have been apparent throughout the campaign, allowing a Western Conference-high of eleven.
To get their season back on track, they will need to restrict the number of chances they allow, as the Timbers have conceded a high xGA average of 2.08 per fixture so far this term.
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The LA Galaxy are expected to be more competitive in the MLS this season after a disappointing MLS Cup defense last term.
They have shown flashes of their best form already this term, beating Charlotte 3-0 at the start of the month. The team's offensive players sparkled in midweek, securing a 6-0 aggregate win over Mount Pleasant to book the Galaxy's spot in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Joao Klauss has been an inspired signing, with the 29-year-old Brazilian scoring five in eight appearances.
| TOTAL | Timbers | Galaxy | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 43 | 17 | 16 | 10 |
| Goals | 152 | 81 | 71 |
The number of opportunities that the Timbers allow will restrict their chances this weekend. Therefore, the offensively strong Galaxy is preferred to record a victory.
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Pick
LA Galaxy
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