Columbus Crew SC will get its first look at the New York Red Bulls without star forward, Thierry Henry and midfielder, Tim Cahill. But don't count New York out. With players such as Lloyd Sam, Dax McCarty -- who is now captain -- and Bradley Wright-Phillips, this New York team could give Columbus competition this weekend. 

The Crew is coming off their first win in the 2015 campaign, with a 2-0 victory over their Canadian rivals, Toronto FC. They now take a 1-0 lead in the Trillium Cup series. Goal scorers Justin Meram and Kei Kamara opened their accounts in the second half of the match, after Toronto was reduced to ten men just before the halftime whistle two weeks ago. As Columbus continues to pick up the tempo, Kamara, the lone striker for Columbus is right in his element. As you may recall, Kamara toe poked a high cross through the outstretched legs of keeper Joe Bendik, and then celebrated by recreating the old Columbus Crew crest. Classy gesture and maybe many more to come. 

The Red Bulls are without two of their star players for the first time. Former captain Henry announced his retirement at the end of the 2014 season. Henry was rumored to head back to Arsenal in London, England. The Red Bulls are also without Australian teammate Cahill, who is now playing overseas. The Red Bulls won their match last week against rivals DC United, 2-0; Goals scored by Wright-Phillips and Sam. 

With both teams looking to win this week, Columbus will have to dominate the possession game, as they did against Toronto FC two weeks ago. Although it may not have looked like it from the naked human eye, but paper wise Columbus dominated that category by 60% through both halves. 

The Red Bulls are known for playing mostly on the wings. To execute that, they need to find the weak spot in Columbus’ back line, get in the box quick, and execute a goal. 

Key Players to Watch: A key player to keep an eye out for Columbus would be Waylon Francis. A Costa Rican international, Francis has the ability to play defense and create goal scoring opportunities. The agility on Francis doesn't go unnoticed and he will bring the spark to the backline this Saturday. 

There's no doubt in mind that Wright-Phillips will be the Red Bulls key player. Last year, Wright-Phillips tied the goal scoring record with 27 goals. He will be dangerous up top and he will be guaranteed to score against Columbus on the road.

Projected Lineup: Columbus Crew SC

Clark; 

Francis--Pogatetz--Parkhurst(c)--Steindorsson

Saeid--George--Trapp--Jimenez

Higuain

Kamara

Projected Lineup: New York Red Bulls

Robles;

Lawrence-Perrinelle--Miazga--Duvall

Martins--McCarty(c)

Richards--Kljestan--Sam

Wright-Phillips

Prediction: Both teams will attack with everything. And needless to say, both teams will play this game like it's their last. Neither team will find a way to pull out the three points. 

Columbus Crew SC 1-1 New York Red Bulls