[MLS PREDICTION] The Red Bulls haven't won on the road since they beat the Galaxy in May, 2008; Real Salt Lake hasn't won since late August and comes into a must-win game without a win in its last three games. Coach Jason Kreis has used the long break from league play to address issues such as a defense that conceded six goals in three league matches.

WEDNESDAY
REAL SALT LAKE (9-11-7) vs. NEW YORK (4-18-6), 10 p.m., ESPN2
Last place New York, playing for pride alone, also had last week off and has tightened up its back line: four goals allowed in the last five games. RSL, which is still in playoff contention, certainly has the greater motivation but has never beaten New York since joining the league in 2005. Bouna Coundoul is on international duty for Senegal so Danny Cepero starts in goal for the Red Bulls.
Prediction: RSL 2, Red Bulls 2.

RIDGE MAHONEY 2009 PREDICTION RECORD
Last week: 2-2. Season: 97-112.