Sorry about missing last week everyone. Actual life got in the way.
Austin FC heads into their 6th match of the season still looking for a win. They are one of just three teams in MLS that are winless (Seattle & New England) and has been noted on this site before, ATXFC have only won once in its last 16 MLS matches and 18 competitive games overall. This week a beleaguered Frisco comes to Q2 Stadium having lost three straight. I would say something has to give, but a 0-0 draw feels like the more accurate scenario.
Here’s a quick preview of neutrals watching this match:
Yes, Q2 Stadium hosts the Sickos Game of the Week. LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE JOSH!
As for the rest of MLS….
Saturday, March 30th
Philadelphia Union vs Minnesota United – 1:00 p.m. (Apple TV)
Minnesota is off to the hottest start in league. Tough road matchup here for them as Philly looks to have found some footing after getting knocked out of CCC. Really interesting game in the early afternoon.
Colorado Rapids vs LAFC – 3:00 p.m. (Apple TV)
The Rapids appear to be that annoying team this year who no one wants to play. LAFC is good and biding time until stupid, sexy Olivier Giroud shows up this summer. They also just signed Kei Kamara, who will now play for his 1,469th different MLS team.
FC Charlotte vs FC Cincinnati – 6:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
The Minty’s are trying to pull off the Ohio double after beating Columbus last week in a replacement ref shenanigans game. Cincinnati looks like one of the best teams in MLS once again with arguably the best back line in the league (I see you Kipp Keller). They’ve given up just two goals in five league matches.
DC United vs CF Montreal – 6:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
The penultimate game of Montreal’s season opening six match road trip. If they can find a win, Montreal will average at least 1.5 points per game during that stretch. Just amazing work. DC is inconsistent but fun to watch.
Inter Miami vs NYCFC – 6:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
If Messi plays, this is an ass-kicking. If Messi doesn’t play, this is probably still an ass-kicking.
Orlando City vs NY Red Bulls – 6:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
Maybe the most interest game of the 6:30 window. Orlando is finally out of CCC hell and has key players back from international duty. Do we finally see the real Lions? Stiff test with a solid Red Bulls team in town.
Toronto FC vs Sporting KC – 6:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
Toronto might be the sleeper of the East this year. Bernardeschi and Insigne look like they’re actually having fun while playing creative, free flowing soccer. Sporting is….fine. They’re the definition of “build an average MLS team”.
Houston Dynamo vs San Jose Earthquakes – 7:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
Nashville SC vs Columbus Crew – 7:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
Nashville has been surprisingly bad from a defensive standpoint so far this season. That’s not going to help you beat the most complete team in the league.
Real Salt Lake vs St Louis CITY – 8:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
This is already the second match of the year between these two after a 1-1 draw on opening weekend. Kind of weird from the schedule makers, but here we are I guess.
LA Galaxy vs Seattle Sounders – 9:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
I’m a bit surprised this isn’t the Sunday afternoon national TV game. The Galaxy remain fun as hell. Odd to say, but I expect them to run all over the Sounders.
Vancouver Whitecaps vs Portland Timbers – 9:30 p.m. (Apple TV)
Cascadia Cup baby! Both teams are sitting on seven points. Prime MLS After Dark energy radiating from this fixture.
Sunday, March 31st
Atlanta United vs Chicago Fire – 2:30 p.m. (FOX/Apple TV)
Meh. It’s a game on TV. If you’re home, watch it. If you’re choosing to enjoy amazing March weather in Austin while you can….well you’ve chosen correctly.