Allright I think we can safetly whittle down the candidates to take the Supporter's Shield down to three teams. Ironically, two of the three teams weren't included in my original poll back in April b/c I thought they were going to tank. Shows how much I know. Congratualations to the Quakes and Rapids for proving me wrong. And alas, my poor feeble MetroStars seem dangerously close to one of their typical late season swoons. But with six games to go Chicago and San Jose are dead even at 43pts with the Fire up by virtue of goal differential. Also Colorado Rapids are coming up on the outside shot at two games back. Looks like this race will go down to the wire.
Some crucial info that will decide the Supporter's Shield. Recent Form: Chicago Fire (3-1-1) San Jose Earthquakes (2-2-1) Colorado Rapids (4-0-1) Obviously the team formally known as the Crapids are the hottest team, but do they have enough time with only six games remaining to make up two games on two different teams. They will need a lot of help, but it can be done. San Jose seems to have leveled off. Remaining Schedule: Chicago Fire/ at Dal, at Col, LA, CLB, COL, at CLB San Jose Quakes/at KC, Dal, MET, at COL, at LA, LA Colorado Rapids/at NE, Chi, at KC, SJ, at Chi, at Dal Colorado has four road games, while Chicago and San Jose have three games each. How will the Fire react to being back in Soldier Field for their final homestand? Will they enjoy newfound support or will they miss the advantage that came with their knowledge of how to play on Naperville's crappy pitch. From first glance it looks like the Quakes have the easier schedule, but will they have the incentive to continue after clinching a spot in the MLS Cup tournament so early on. Side Note: How many goals could Edson Buddle have scored if he had been healthy for the entire season? He easily could have been the leading goal scorer in MLS. Dude is good.