We’re back with another edition of “What to Watch For — LSC’s POV,” this time looking at the Western Conference clubs in Week 30 action whose results could directly affect Lexington SC’s position in the standings.
Lexington enters Week 30 in fourth place in the West after a triumphant, gutsy win over Detroit City FC on the road last weekend.
In addition, several other results proved favorable for LSC, creating a bit of separation in the standings — even if that separation is only a point or two. Colorado Springs and El Paso lost, New Mexico and Phoenix drew and most importantly, LSC won.
Lexington SC’s magic number is 16, meaning it’s the combination of points LSC must either earn itself or see ninth-place Orange County SC drop in order to guarantee Terry Boss’ side a playoff spot.
Orange County does have two matches in hand over Lexington, so LSC’s magic number could decrease even when it isn’t playing, should OCSC drop points.
One of the biggest matchups of the year awaits Lexington SC on Sunday night as it takes on New Mexico United. But until then, the Lexington faithful get to sit back and enjoy a full slate of USL Championship matches.
Here’s what we’re keeping an eye on this week in USL-C play.
Standings
Week 30 Schedule
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC (31 points, 8th in West) vs. New Mexico United (34 points, 5th in West) — Wednesday, 9 p.m. ET
This midweek clash carries major implications for Lexington. New Mexico, LSC’s opponent just days later Sunday, sits one point and one spot behind LSC in the table. A Switchbacks win, however, would pull Colorado Springs level with New Mexico on points, adding another direct challenger into the mix.
In our eyes, the best-case scenario for LSC is a draw. That way, New Mexico remains within reach heading into Sunday’s showdown, and Colorado Springs doesn’t climb too close. One club breathing down your neck is stressful enough — no need to invite company.
Best Outcome: Draw
El Paso Locomotive FC (32 points, 6th in West) vs. Rhode Island FC (30 points, 8th in East) — Friday, 9 p.m. ET
Lexington SC leads El Paso by three points in the standings, and as you know by now, we (almost) always root for an Eastern Conference opponent to beat a foe from the West.
Best Outcome: Rhode Island FC win
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC (31 points, 8th in West) vs. Hartford Athletic (35 points, 5th in East) — Saturday, 8 p.m. ET
On two days’ rest, Switchbacks FC hosts a red-hot Hartford Athletic side that has gone 9W-2L-1D in its last 12 outings across all competitions. Here’s hoping the Eastern side adds to that win total.
Best Outcome: Hartford Athletic win
San Antonio FC (36 points, 3rd in West) vs. Birmingham Legion FC (22 points, 11th in East) — Saturday, 8:30 p.m. ET
Not only is this our third West vs. East battle of the evening, but Lexington SC only trails San Antonio FC by one point. Legion FC has not won a league match since July 11, but there is no time like the present to stop the bleeding.
Best Outcome: Birmingham Legion FC win
Phoenix Rising FC (32 points, 7th in West) vs. Oakland Roots SC (26 points, 10th in West) — Saturday, 10 p.m. ET
While Phoenix Rising FC cannot pass Lexington SC in the standings this week as LSC owns the tiebreaker (six points earned in two meetings this season), we’ll include this matchup since a Rising win could put Phoenix level on points with Lexington.
Oakland is far enough back that a win would not threaten LSC in any way, shape or form at this stage of the season.
Best Outcome: Oakland Roots SC win