Derbies are special. They have a special kind of atmosphere, a special kind of fire and ferocity, a special kind of significance. That is true irrespective of the quality of the teams participating in them. The fans want to win these matches no matter how their team may be performing, and the players are quite aware of what is on the line.
On Friday night, the newest local derby — and already one of the most hotly anticipated — will provide its fourth, riveting instalment. After dramatic draws and 50-yard MLS debut volleys, last season’s El Traficos were unquestionably the games of the season.