Match Preview: Cosmos vs. PRFC

The Cosmos return to Brooklyn for their second match against PRFC. The Cosmos are coming off of a 1-1 against the Jacksonville Armada. The three points that would have snatched the league lead for the Cosmos were snatched away due to a moment of individual brilliance from Zach Steinberger. The Cosmos now sit two points away from league leaders Miami FC, and could take first place with a win.

Puerto Rico, on the other hand, not only needs points, but also wins. PRFC after drawing the Cosmos in the season opener, PRFC still have yet to win a game. They sit at the bottom of the table with three points (from three draws). PRFC still has time to turn their season around, but they need points fast. A win against the Cosmos could kick things off.

Players to Watch

According to Cosmos press, Jimmy Maurer is set to make his 100^th appearance for the club. Maurer has been the Cosmos’ star man this season, proving again he is one of, if not the best goalkeeper in the NASL. Maurer’s four saves were crucial to the Cosmos’ point against the Jacksonville Armada. Hopefully if he keeps this form up Maurer could be considered for the U.S. National Team, as Gio Savarese proposed earlier in the season.

Hector “Pito” Ramos could be the difference maker for PRFC. After being named into the NASL team of the month for April, Pito has failed to score in his last two games. If he can find himself on the right end of a chance, he could take not only help PRFC get the three points, but also be atop the NASL golden boot race with three goals.

Match Prediction

In the reverse fixture, these teams played to a 0-0 draw. I don’t think that will happen again. With a lot of goals coming from the New York’s midfield in recent games, I think the Cosmos will be the ones to break the deadlock. 1-0 Cosmos.

Kickoff for Cosmos vs. PRFC is 7:00 tomorrow at Brooklyn’s MCU Park. The match can be watched on MSG Plus and WatchESPN.