Normally, the Columbus Crew would be considered set for a win when an expansion team is coming into town - especially after playing a midweek game.
But the situation is different once the Crew's four-match losing streak is considered. Add to that scenario that Real Salt Lake is not your average expansion team, and the Crew face a difficult test this weekend in putting an end to their recent woes.
"They are not an expansion team in the fact that most of their starters are guys who are veterans in the league for a significant number of years," coach Greg Andrulis said. "Their back four in the game against the Galaxy was Rusty Pierce, Eddie Pope, Brian Dunseth, and Nelson Akwari."
Real Salt Lake's squad should be recognizable to the Crew. In Wednesday's 2-0 win against Chivas USA, three former members of the Crew - Andy Williams, Akwari and Dunseth - all started. Williams scored the first goal of the match. Additionally, veterans such as Pierce, Pope, Brian Kamler, Clint Mathis and Jason Kreis have all faced the Black & Gold on numerous occasions.
"I think they did a good job when the put the team together," said Andrulis.
With the return of Robin Fraser likely for Saturday's match, the Crew backline will again be changed. It would seem likely that the Crew would stick with three in back with Chad Marshall on Fraser's left and Frankie Hejduk on his right.
However, the Crew could continue experimenting with the four-man back line. The Crew readily admit they are looking for ways to solidify a defense that has been too porous on the season. In that case, Marshall would pair with Fraser in the center of the defense. While Hejduk would remain on the right, Stephen Herdsman would enter as left back.
"We are looking at some different combinations," said Andrulis.
Known for his speed, Herdsman is much better suited for this role as opposed to the center back position he played in the first half of the Crew's loss to the Wizards last weekend.
Regardless of the formation, Chris Wingert and Simon Elliott are expected to feature as Columbus tries to get more pressure on opponents in the midfield in an effort to cut down on quality scoring chances.
Crew goalkeeper Jon Busch has often been left helpless as opponents have overwhelmed the Crew with a large of number of opportunities and resulting shots on goal. Only Chivas USA has given up more goals than the Crew.
Andrulis's squad hopes that Fraser's return and the tactical changes are the right ingredients to get things turned around before they have to go back on the road at midweek - where they have no points on the season.
John Kuhn is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
