Winning the Honors Trophy, the clubs first major title, was a major breakthrough for Gateway United. Traditionally, the Saints have been one of the toughest opponents in the BSL to beat. Well, until the playoffs begin. Last year Gateway United lost in the playoff semi-finals for the third time in 4 years, leading one to wonder if a jinx is involved. In the Majors Cup, the club's 2 ties in group stage sealed its demise in that tourney as well. So what will this season bring? Landon Donovan will miss a few months to open the schedule, so the Saints aggressively sought Darlington Nagbe. The club appears convinced he is the next superstar in the making. Juan Agudelo was signed despite the fact he has been an underachiever, once again appearing convinced this the year he matures. How will Conor Casey fair in Philly? Other youngsters Michael Farfan and Tristan Bowen also were signed. The Saints have gone on a youth movement. Will these young guns end the jinx? Moving on to the Spartans. The New York club lost only 4 times in 2012. The club went toe to toe with the best and was in the playoff race the entire season. It was a record setting 10 ties that proved too much. Ties are good to an extent, but 10!. Graham Zusi and Tim Cahill make for solid DP's. The addition of Mattocks is rock solid. The question marks are Koevermans and Ruiz. Koevermans will not be available until the summer meaning he will miss a huge amount of games. Carlos Ruiz may score some of the prettiest goals, but he has not played professional for a year and is not in game shape. How will he fair? Sean Johnson will give the Spartans a consistent Keeper. In these clubs 2 meetings last year, both games ended in 3-3 ties.
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