Published May 20, 4:40am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated May 20, 4:40am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated May 20, 4:40am ET
The final round of matches in the MLS before the FIFA World Cup will see an interesting clash at Children’s Mercy Park, as Sporting KC host the NY Red Bulls.
The hosts sit at the bottom of the Western Conference, while the Red Bulls have strengthened their position in the Eastern Conference playoffs after going three without defeat.
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|
|---|---|
| Sporting KC | +203 |
| DRAW | +318 |
| NY Red Bulls | +108 |
It had been a frustrating start to the season for Sporting KC after winning just once in the opening eleven rounds of fixtures. However, they have shown a better level of performance in their previous two, winning successive fixtures against LA Galaxy and Austin FC.
Most pleasing has been their defensive improvement. In their last two, they have allowed just two goals, while in their three clashes before this run, they had allowed 12 goals.
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Michael Bradley has set his side the target of finishing in a playoff position this season. They have strengthened their hold in that race in recent weeks after going three without a defeat. That is an excellent return to form after going five without a victory before their 3-1 victory at the Chicago Fire on May 9.
They were able to continue their unbeaten run last weekend after securing a draw against NYCFC. Their goal in the tie was scored by Jorge Ruvalcaba, who will once again start on the left wing this weekend.
| TOTAL | Sporting KC | NY Red Bulls | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 48 | 16 | 17 | 15 |
| Goals | 118 | 60 | 58 |
Sporting KC will take confidence from their recent winning form. However, the away win looks like the standout selection this weekend based on the consistent nature of the Red Bulls.
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Pick
NY Red Bulls (+108)
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