SJ Earthquakes vs. Chicago Fire Preview

This game is important for both the Fire and the Earthquakes. Real Salt Lake has been on a hot streak of their own. That last loss to Vancouver for the Quakes was pretty big. Now, RSL is only 1 point behind. If the Quakes get shut out today, or lose, it's a huge deal for them. RSL is very close to grabbing the league's top cede.

As for the Fire, they need this win as well. With DC United only a few points ahead, the Fire need to grab as many points as they can. The season is still a long way from over, but every point counts. Columbus Crew is pretty far behind them, but they can still comeback.

Chris Wondolowski, still the leading goal scorer in the league, is looking to come off a brilliant all-star game where he scored a goal. Even his powerful kick couldn't be stopped by the league's best goalies. I'm hoping he scores tonight: stat wise, the Quakes should have no problem 'putting Chicago away'.
Here are some of the key things that need to be emphasized for the Quakes:

- Goals: The obvious: the Earthquakes really don't have a problem getting Alan Gordon and/or Wondolowski an open shot

- Shots on Goal: Get as many as they can. The more shots, the more chance. This is another obvious one

- Assists: Ball movement is always important. Alan Gordon will be moving inside, and Marvin Chavez will always make a good pass

- Possession Time: Keep the ball out of the opponents' feet. The less time they have, the less opportunity

- Defense: Intensity will smother and anger your opponents into a yellow card, which is always good for the opponent.

Posted in: Chicago Fire,Chris Wondolowki,San Jose Earthquakes