Season Preview: Sinners or Saints?

Saving the least for last, we look at a team that gives our fair city a bad name, the hated Gateway United. It is against my religion to say good things about them, so I guess I'll be heading to confession after I type this. The truth is, as much as it hurts to admit it, Gateway has compiled a formidable roster--one that compete with any team in the league. It is my theory that the Saints got some inside help from the man upstairs. Take Landon Donovan. Everton wanted him bad and had they landed him, Gateway would have been devestated. Luck is on the Saints side; Landon stays. Even without Landon, the team boasts legitimate talent: I've always believed Jeff Cunningham is one of MLS's top strikers (when he feels like it) and Freddy Ljundberg is one of MLS's best midfield acquistions--a top European NOT past his prime. While those three are the chore of Gateway's team, don't be surprised if some of his other players outscore them. Marco Pappa may be an outside contender for MVP (he will takeover playmaking for Blanco and will do so in style). Maykel Galindo is healthy again and MLS defenses are scared to death. And given the Saints luck (and help from God), I wouldn't be shocked if Luis Angel Landin wins the scoring race. Their goalkeepers could be better (Frei's Toronto leaks goals and Busch's lack of size can be an issue), but that won't matter. Gateway will be in the playoffs. The first ever Show Me Cup is game 4 of the BSL season. So here are my predictions for the upcoming BSL season: 1. Union Southern California 2. Gateway United 3. Montgomery County 4. St. Louis Cure SC 5. Capital District Gunners 6. New York Greeks 7. Burud Town 8. Gold Coast