New York Red Bulls vs. KC Wizards Preview: A Win Clinc

After the disaster that was last season, the Red Bulls have the opportunity to clinch a spot in the MLS playoffs. Standing in their way is the Kansas City Wizards who are in a must-win situation tonight. The Kansas City team is on the bubble with a need for 6 points to make the playoffs and must finish the season strong.

The Red Bulls are returning from Los Angeles where they were able to beat the Galaxy 2-0 without star striker Thierry Henry. Great play by Dane Richards, Joel Lindpere, and Juan Pablo Angel and a career game from Bouna Coundoul translated into win over one of the top teams in the MLS. The Red Bulls are sore with Henry returning from injury and Rafael Marquez questionable with a sore knee, so tonight may be the final time you see the A-squad. Hans Backe has been a fantastic manager and if the Red Bulls come away with a win tonight, there would be no reason for him to risk injury to stars like JPA, Rafael Marquez, Thierry Henry, Joel Lindpere, or Dane Richards going into the playoffs.

The last time these two teams met, KC keeper Jimmy Neilsen gave up two soft goals and the Red Bulls were victorious 3-0. The Red Bulls were a very different team and Neilsen hasn't faced a 1-2 punch like Juan Pablo Angel and Thierry Henry at any point in his MLS career. If the Red Bulls are clicking, it will be a very long day for Neilsen. That is the expectation. I hate giving predictions but the Red Bulls should win 2-0 at home and clinch the playoffs.

Come On You Red Bulls