The Western Conference leading San Jose Earthquakes are set to host southern California rival, Chivas USA at Buckshaw Stadium this Sunday. Thee Quakes are coming off of just their second loss of the season last weekend when they traveled to Vancouver to play the Whitecaps. Despite taking an early lead on a Chris Wondolowski goal, the Quakes were unable to hold on and suffered a heart breaking loss as the Whitecaps took the lead in stoppage time.
The Quakes now look to regain form against Western Conference bottom dweller, Chivas USA. Heading into the match, the Quakes are playing dominant on offense, leading the MLS in goals scored as well as assists. Unfortunately, the Quakes offense took a hit last week due to the injury of midfielder Marvin Chavez. The Honduran midfielder had been a spark plug for the Quakes offense at times this season and in last week's match, it was a beautiful cross from Chavez that found the head of Wondolowski to put the Quakes ahead early. Chavez looks to be out 2-4 weeks with a strained hamstring. Thankfully for the Quakes, while their offense took a big hit, their defense will get a lift from the return of Jason Hernandez who had to leave last week's game against the Whitecaps at half time due to what appeared to be a calf injury.
This weekend's tilt against Chivas USA is a key match for the Quakes. If they wish to remain atop the Western Conference, they need to get three points in a match like this. Chivas USA is struggling early this season with only 9 points. The Quakes must get full points from games like this which feature Western Conference opponents at home, especially when those opponents are struggling.