Lamar Hunt Open Cup: Real Salt Lake vs San Jose Earthquakes Preview

Real Salt Lake form (DLWLL): RSL's two-straight losses put a quick stop to the thoughts of them 'turning the corner' after the 4-0 defeat over DC United. However, RSL's home record is 1-1-0 with only the draw coming to last minute heroics from Blanco.

San Jose Earthquakes form (LLWL): The middle two games for the Earthquakes were very positive, as they seemed to control the game quite well. Their one win came on the road against the Rapids, as they devastated the Dick's attendees (go ahead, giggle at that phrase).

History: Since, the Earthquakes are keeping their records from the move to Houston, I will uphold the 2005 series. Earthquakes dominated the series in '05 with a (2-2-0) record against RSL. But this game will be nothing about the 2005 series.

What to watch for:
Who will be playing for each side in this contest? Open Cup games are usually treated as reserve-like games. With so many unknowns about what each side's lineups will be, the rest is just speculation.

My prediciton:
RSL 1 - Earthquakes 0. I have a feeling that this game will be very experimental for each side, and most dangerous chances will be from mistakes. I think there will be few shots on goal, but one of RSL's forwards will find a late goal to advance in the Open Cup.

Am I thinking too conservatively? Leave your predicitions in the comments.

EDIT: Forgot to mention that this game will have RSL sporting Green Kits.