Week 14 Preview: what you need to know

Another mid week match went missed, as USL opened up week 14 out in San Antonio Texas. For the second time in as many matches, San Antonio FC put up three goals against their opposition, and added three more points to their tally. They now sit one point behind Austin Bold, just outside of the playoff spots in the Mountain conference, and only six points from the two teams tied at the top (EL Paso, RGV) 

The most intriguing Friday night(tonight) match, especially for Legion fans, is Louisville City vs Colorado Springs Switchbacks(8:00pm). The Switchbacks have hit a small slump, losing their last two matches, but have been known to put goals in the back of the net no matter the opponent. However, Lou City has proven that they can do the same. Neutrals can look to this game for their Friday night goal fix, while Legion fans will hope Colorado can Switchback the fortunes of these clubs and take all three points from Louisville City FC. Who currently sit four points above Legion for the top spot in the Central division. 

The Saturday evening slate starts with our Birmingham Legion visiting Indy 11 again(6:00pm). Indy has been win-less since June 26th. Going 0-1-3 during that span, with their only loss coming at the hands(feet) of Birmingham Legion. Both teams are in a bit of a mixed bag of a run. Neither being entirely dominant scoreline wise. So with a bit of determination, Birmingham should pull out another road win at Michael A. Caroll. And with a bit of luck, Lou City falter and Legion are back within one point of the top spot of the Central conference. In a conference as tight as this one, where only six points separate Indy(6th out of a playoff spot) from Legion(2nd in the conference). The Birmingham Legion will take all the luck they can get.

Speaking of tight tables, this weekend could have a huge impact on both the Pacific and Mountain conferences. Phoenix Rising seem to be running away from the pack in the Pacific division. They sit comfortably at the top with 26 points. Following them however, is a two way tie for second with Orange County and San Diego Loyal both on 21 points. Then there’s a three way tie for third. Las Vegas Lights, Tacoma Defiance, and LA Galaxy II all three have 13 points, and every team but Tacoma plays this weekend. 

Finally, the Mountain division isn’t quite as tight, but does have yet another tie for the top spot. El Paso Locomotive FC, and RGV Torros both have 24 points, keeping them atop the Mountain conference. But only 3 points separates 6th place Colorado Springs Switchbacks(17 points) from 3rd place New Mexico United(20 points). 

While there is plenty of the season left to play, this weekend could change the trajectories for quite a few teams across the entirety of the USL.