Crew Vs. Red Bulls MLS Preview: Columbus Looks To Slow Down New York

Red Bull New York heads into Columbus to take on the Crew on Saturday at 3 p.m.

Both teams have won two straight and the winner Saturday will take sole possession of second place in the Eastern Conference.

While the Crew are coming off a modest 1-0 win against Toronto, the Red Bulls have won their most recent two matches in convincing fashion. Last Saturday, they beat the expansion Montreal Impact 5-2 and the Colorado Rapids before that by 4-1. Thierry Henry scored five of those nine goals on his way to winning the Major League Soccer Player of the Month honors. Kenny Cooper scored twice in those games.

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However, while New York is scoring a lot, they have also given up seven goals through their first four games, tied for second worst in MLS. To make matters even worse for the Red Bulls, midfielder Teemu Tainio is out for four to six weeks with knee ligament damage. Starting defender WIlliam Conde is also questionable with a groin strain.

Columbus' defense, coming off of two straight shutouts, will have a tough task on Saturday. If they can keep New York's pair of forwards in check, and left-back Shaun Francis can defend against Dane Richards, the Crew have a great chance of winning in front of the home crowd.

For more on the Crew, check out Massive Report.