The major theme this weekend was awful, awful defending. Most goals seemed to come from poor defending and average attacking play.
-The Vancouver supporters were fantastic and in great voice for their season opener. If Toronto could defend they would have taken a point from this game. Some of the worst school-boy defending I've seen in a long time with two of the Whitecaps goals from bad marking, bad clearances or just not marking a runner.
- On the theme of terrible defending Chivas tried their best to be the worst defensive team on the day. Sporting KC's three goals were simply down to awful defending and opportunistic attacking. However, Chivas got themselves back into the match by some shoddy set piece marking followed by a second Chivas goal thanks to more bad SKC marking. I wrote SKC's backline was untested in the first half and they looked shakey in the second. Chivas didn't have anyone to put the ball away and SKC escaped, in the end, with all three points.
- Salt Lake escaped San Jose with all three points in unconvincing fashion. The combination of wind, rain and RSL fatigue due to their exploits in the CONCACAF Champions League looked to zap the energy from the team. Fortunately for RSL Nick Rimando put in a man of the match performance.
- I'm not sure who counted the heads as they came through the gate, but it was annouced FC Dallas' Pizza Hut Park was sold out for opening day. I guess a sell out in Texas is different than in most other cities as there were massive gaps in the stands and loads of empty seats. I was a bit unaware Break Shea would be moving to centreback in this one, and he looked out of place miscontrolling a pass then getting sent off for pulling down a Chicago attacker. I thought Chicago looked the better team in this one, except for the magic goal that Dallas' Milton Rodrigez pulled out of nowhere.
- Great to see Colorado getting off to a great start and their attack looked electric, most notably Omar Cummings. Portland was never in this match. Rodney Wallace was poor and proved again he isn't an MLS level defender. It was also great to see a full house at Dick Sporting Goods Park.
- Nothing special between Houston and Philadelphia Union. The winner coming on a scamble in front of goal that was buried by centreback Danny Califf.
- New York and Seattle played perhaps the best match of the weekend. Seattle already played during the week and lost to LA 1-0. They looked better in this and if it wouldn't have been for Greg Sutton Seattle would have been up early. However, NY's Juan Agudelo won an early penalty only for the spot kick from Thierry Henry to be saved by Kasey Keller. Alvaro Fernadez and Freddy Montero were excellent linking up together in this one. But Seattle had no one else joining the attack and NY put the game away with an excellent goal from Agudelo. Henry it must be noted faded in the second half for the Red Bulls after starting brightly.
- Not sure how to judege DC United after they defeated a poor Columbus team. Josh Wolff got the opening goal and the man I said would lead the leauge in scoring and resurrect his career, Charlie Davies, got two. One from the spot and the other from open play. His second was fantastic individual effort and the quality that he showed against the Columbus defence was head and shoulders above. I've said previously Columbus has terrible fullbacks and a bad defence and it looks like it could be a long season for them. Great to see a big hungry DC crowd out looking for a rebound from last season. It's interesting to note DC's captain last season Santino Quaranta and Branco Boskovic started on the bench and were both unused subs.
- If the season goes according to opening day we're going to see a load of goals, some terrible defending and some fantastic forwards in the league this season. I'm already earmarking a couple managers to be sacked this year with the first being Columbus' Robert Warzycha.
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Sunday, March 20, 2011
Western Confernce
The Western Conference is considered this season’s dominate half of the league. Many already assume that four teams will qualify for the newly expanded playoffs via the wildcard. Meaning, the teams that finish 4, 5, 6, 7 in the West will make the playoffs. This is how I see the West turning out.
1. LA Galaxy
Forget David Beckham. This will be his last season in LA and MLS unless something occurs over the course of the season (ex. Injury) that keeps him from moving back to Europe for one last ride into the sunset. I think this team is still the best in the league despite being the oldest, and they have gotten even older this season. Frankie Hejduk signed from Columbus and should see a lot of time at the right back spot. This signing should also give LA some depth at the back going into the 2011/12 Champions League tournament. Many feel the Galaxy haven’t adequately replaced Edson Buddle, which is ridiculous to say as they’ve brought in Juan Pablo Angel; who is a proven goal score and will go down as one of the best strikers in MLS history. The club has also brought in Chad Barrett who will see a lot of action and I think could finally have a break out season. If Angel and Barrett play up top this could give either Beckham or Landon Donovan the chance to play the number 10 role or out wide with Juniho slotting into the central midfield. Though LA faded at the end of last season they’re still the best team in MLS. They’ll have some rough spots during this season, but they’ll win the Supporters’ Shield yet again. The Open Cup, MLS Cup and Champions League are another story.
2. Real Salt Lake
RSL is the toughest team to beat in MLS especially at home. This team is still riding the wave they embarked on when they made the playoffs on the last day of the season in ‘09 before going on to win the MLS Cup. They have nearly all the same pieces in place and have signed Alvaro Saborio to a DP contract to keep him content. Javier Morales is the heart beat of this team and if he can continue his stellar play RSL may have a shot at all the trophies they compete for this season. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if a few teams in Europe came sniffing around in August if he continues his great play. Though RSL have him tied down a move could be forced through. If RSL win the Champions League this spring that could set the tone for a dominating MLS season. I think they’ll come up just short in the Supporters’ Shield, but they’re my favourites to lift the MLS Cup and Open Cup. I would like to see them bring in a couple of re-enforcements this season to help what will be a tired squad, and I’d love to see them blood young Luis Gil.
3. Colorado Rapids
In ‘09 Salt Lake won an unlikely MLS Cup, and since then have become one of the top sides this side of the US/Mexico border. Last season, Colorado made a similar timely run through the playoffs capping it off with their first MLS Cup. This will help Colorado express themselves as a team this season finishing in an automatic playoff spot. The team boasts the best attack with Conor Casey, Omar Cummings and Macoumba Kandji. They’ve added depth and pace in Sanna Nyassi to go with the cultured wing play of Jamie Smith. Though Julian Baudet has moved on the Rapids have replaced him with Tyrone Marshall; though a journeymen MLS player, Marshall will play a big part in the Rapids’ defence. The key to Colorado’s success will be in captain Pablo Mastroeni’s ability to stay fit. I don’t rate him as a great MLS player, but he and Jeff Larentowicz are the engine of this team. If they and the wide players Smith and Nyassi can get the strikers service this team will be hard to beat. Though they have plenty of fire power I still think they are third best in both the West and MLS this season.
4. FC Dallas
FCD had a break out season in 2010, and many feel should have won the MLS Cup if it were not for an own goal in extra time. But, that’s football. Many feel Dallas will push for top honours in the league this season, but I don’t believe that will happen. However, I do think the team will settle into the upper half of the league. At times this team punched above their weight last season as they went on their epic undefeated streak. The team has lost four big contributors to last season’s MLS Cup run in Dax McCarty (who seems to get better and better as we talk about his trade to DC), Jeff Cunningham, Heath Pearce and Atiba Harris. Each weighed in in their own way to help Dallas during the course of ‘10. I’m not sure how these four players have been replaced, and looking at Dallas’ roster I don’t see a striker that jumps out at me. David Ferreira is still one of the top five players in the league, but he’ll need to conjure something special for this Dallas team to eclipse last season. Heath Pearce has been moved on, and though he may not be a big lose the team will feel it in the depth department. The team could also be without the talented Break Shea during the summer as he may receive a call up to the USMNT for the Gold Cup. I don’t think this team is better than they were last season, and with the loss of four players not adequately replaced I think they’ve slightly regressed.
5. Seattle Sounders FC
The team that everyone loves to hate. Say what you will about the Sounders, but they’ve done fantastic things for MLS since joining the league from the USL. It goes to show what a team and city can do for the league when a team with some roots join the league. We should see the same in Portland and Vancouver this season and Montreal next season; and I would love to see Charleston join the league in the future. Seattle, however, as a team doesn’t appear to have done a great deal to improve on the squad they ended their inaugural MLS season with. They have added Erik Freiberg and it will be interesting to see where he slots in. Steve Zakuani is still electric down the wing, but he still needs to improve on his final ball. Alvaro Fernandez was a bright spot last season after signing as a DP. He improved the Sounders down the stretch and should help the team over the long haul of the season. But this team’s biggest question marks are in the final third and the attacking third. The back line is suspect, and James Riley is more of a right sided midfielder than right back. Tyrone Marshall is gone and Patrick Ianni and Jhon Kennedy Hurtado will need to be at their best to keep the pressure off aging goalkeeper Casey Keller. Up front all eyes are on DP Freddy Montero who can be the most exciting and most frustrating player in all of MLS. Besides being perpetually unhappy in Seattle he tends to disappear in matches; especially big games. Many times he has been marked out of games by opposing teams when defended against physically. He will have to do more on his own this season as Blaise N’Kofu has been released. Word is Seattle has over spent and it’s no doubt with having three designated players. Seattle will rely on Montero far too much again and there’s no one else on their roster who can put in the goals with the frequency of Montero and N’Kofu. Especially not Nate Jaqua. This team will need someone during the summer transfer window. I think it’ll be an up hill battle to make the playoffs, and could be a disappointing season.
6. Vancouver Whitecaps
Most pundits have already written this club off before MLS opening day. However, I believe the Whitecaps will be in the playoff hunt until the end of the season. They’ve worked hard and done their homework in the offseason. They’ve signed quite a few former division two players, and most pundits have slammed them for this. I say it all the time, but MLS and D2 are not as far off as people believe. Bringing in players the club is already familiar with will help the team bed-in to MLS unlike other expansion teams. Many of these players are unheard of by MLS followers including myself, but I love the way they’ve done it their way and I believe it will pay off. If the Whitecaps can get their DP Eric Hassli off to a strong start it maybe the best signing of the offseason.
7. Chivas USA
Chivas could be a dark horse in the West. They took their time, but finally named Robin Fraser as manager. But most importantly they’ve nearly gotten rid of any player from Preki’s time with the club. They’ve added enough good MLS players that they should have a fighting chance for a playoff spot. The acquisition of Alejandro Moreno should help with the Goats’ offence. Though he doesn’t score a load of goals his high work rate is invaluable. Heath Pearce and Andrew Boyens should help to replace the highly underrated Jonathon Bornstein. Tristen Bowen, once the coveted youth prospect of LA Galaxy, was acquired in the off season could get a lot of playing time for the Goats. I’ve never been too high on Justin Braun and going into his fourth MLS season I need to see more from him if he is to live up to what many MLS pundits already claim him to be. Chivas was able to re-sign Paulo Nagamura midway through last season, and he’ll be able to protect that back four. Nagamura is a fantastic talent and would fit into any team in MLS. They’ll need him to take the pressure off of Ante Jazic and the over the hill Jimmy Conrad. Zarek Valentin is a US U20 and we’ll see if he can make the jump from college to professional. I don’t think they’ll make the playoffs this season and the East will be better than most people think.
8. Portland Timbers
The Timbers come into MLS off a pre-season of solid signings. Kenny Cooper joins from 1860 Munich, and is a proven goal score in the league. They’ve also signed number one draft pick Darling ton Nagbe and he could factor heavily in the teams debut season. Portland has also made a solid acquisition in Jack Jewsbury who is a fantastic MLS veteran that can play across the midfield or as a fullback. He has worn the armband in the pres-season and could do the same during the regular season. The Timbers also have a former goalkeeper of the year in Troy Perkins who will hope to rebound from last season disappointment with DC. This team should challenge for a playoff spot up until the end of the season, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they get in.
9. San Jose Earthquakes
San Jose was able to make it into the playoffs last season on the back of a career year by Chris Wondolowski. He won’t do that again. Wondolowski is coming into his seventh year in the league and it wasn’t until last season that he had scored more than four goals in a season. Last year he benefited from Bobby Convey’s return to form and the inabilities of other San Jose strikers. He isn’t the type of striker to have consistent scoring seasons and with his fall off it will keep San Jose at the bottom of the West. They do have some decent players such as Sam Cronin, but overall this team is poor. Goalkeeping is their strength, but with a porous defence and no major acquisitions in the offseason I don’t expect much.
1. LA Galaxy
Forget David Beckham. This will be his last season in LA and MLS unless something occurs over the course of the season (ex. Injury) that keeps him from moving back to Europe for one last ride into the sunset. I think this team is still the best in the league despite being the oldest, and they have gotten even older this season. Frankie Hejduk signed from Columbus and should see a lot of time at the right back spot. This signing should also give LA some depth at the back going into the 2011/12 Champions League tournament. Many feel the Galaxy haven’t adequately replaced Edson Buddle, which is ridiculous to say as they’ve brought in Juan Pablo Angel; who is a proven goal score and will go down as one of the best strikers in MLS history. The club has also brought in Chad Barrett who will see a lot of action and I think could finally have a break out season. If Angel and Barrett play up top this could give either Beckham or Landon Donovan the chance to play the number 10 role or out wide with Juniho slotting into the central midfield. Though LA faded at the end of last season they’re still the best team in MLS. They’ll have some rough spots during this season, but they’ll win the Supporters’ Shield yet again. The Open Cup, MLS Cup and Champions League are another story.
2. Real Salt Lake
RSL is the toughest team to beat in MLS especially at home. This team is still riding the wave they embarked on when they made the playoffs on the last day of the season in ‘09 before going on to win the MLS Cup. They have nearly all the same pieces in place and have signed Alvaro Saborio to a DP contract to keep him content. Javier Morales is the heart beat of this team and if he can continue his stellar play RSL may have a shot at all the trophies they compete for this season. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if a few teams in Europe came sniffing around in August if he continues his great play. Though RSL have him tied down a move could be forced through. If RSL win the Champions League this spring that could set the tone for a dominating MLS season. I think they’ll come up just short in the Supporters’ Shield, but they’re my favourites to lift the MLS Cup and Open Cup. I would like to see them bring in a couple of re-enforcements this season to help what will be a tired squad, and I’d love to see them blood young Luis Gil.
3. Colorado Rapids
In ‘09 Salt Lake won an unlikely MLS Cup, and since then have become one of the top sides this side of the US/Mexico border. Last season, Colorado made a similar timely run through the playoffs capping it off with their first MLS Cup. This will help Colorado express themselves as a team this season finishing in an automatic playoff spot. The team boasts the best attack with Conor Casey, Omar Cummings and Macoumba Kandji. They’ve added depth and pace in Sanna Nyassi to go with the cultured wing play of Jamie Smith. Though Julian Baudet has moved on the Rapids have replaced him with Tyrone Marshall; though a journeymen MLS player, Marshall will play a big part in the Rapids’ defence. The key to Colorado’s success will be in captain Pablo Mastroeni’s ability to stay fit. I don’t rate him as a great MLS player, but he and Jeff Larentowicz are the engine of this team. If they and the wide players Smith and Nyassi can get the strikers service this team will be hard to beat. Though they have plenty of fire power I still think they are third best in both the West and MLS this season.
4. FC Dallas
FCD had a break out season in 2010, and many feel should have won the MLS Cup if it were not for an own goal in extra time. But, that’s football. Many feel Dallas will push for top honours in the league this season, but I don’t believe that will happen. However, I do think the team will settle into the upper half of the league. At times this team punched above their weight last season as they went on their epic undefeated streak. The team has lost four big contributors to last season’s MLS Cup run in Dax McCarty (who seems to get better and better as we talk about his trade to DC), Jeff Cunningham, Heath Pearce and Atiba Harris. Each weighed in in their own way to help Dallas during the course of ‘10. I’m not sure how these four players have been replaced, and looking at Dallas’ roster I don’t see a striker that jumps out at me. David Ferreira is still one of the top five players in the league, but he’ll need to conjure something special for this Dallas team to eclipse last season. Heath Pearce has been moved on, and though he may not be a big lose the team will feel it in the depth department. The team could also be without the talented Break Shea during the summer as he may receive a call up to the USMNT for the Gold Cup. I don’t think this team is better than they were last season, and with the loss of four players not adequately replaced I think they’ve slightly regressed.
5. Seattle Sounders FC
The team that everyone loves to hate. Say what you will about the Sounders, but they’ve done fantastic things for MLS since joining the league from the USL. It goes to show what a team and city can do for the league when a team with some roots join the league. We should see the same in Portland and Vancouver this season and Montreal next season; and I would love to see Charleston join the league in the future. Seattle, however, as a team doesn’t appear to have done a great deal to improve on the squad they ended their inaugural MLS season with. They have added Erik Freiberg and it will be interesting to see where he slots in. Steve Zakuani is still electric down the wing, but he still needs to improve on his final ball. Alvaro Fernandez was a bright spot last season after signing as a DP. He improved the Sounders down the stretch and should help the team over the long haul of the season. But this team’s biggest question marks are in the final third and the attacking third. The back line is suspect, and James Riley is more of a right sided midfielder than right back. Tyrone Marshall is gone and Patrick Ianni and Jhon Kennedy Hurtado will need to be at their best to keep the pressure off aging goalkeeper Casey Keller. Up front all eyes are on DP Freddy Montero who can be the most exciting and most frustrating player in all of MLS. Besides being perpetually unhappy in Seattle he tends to disappear in matches; especially big games. Many times he has been marked out of games by opposing teams when defended against physically. He will have to do more on his own this season as Blaise N’Kofu has been released. Word is Seattle has over spent and it’s no doubt with having three designated players. Seattle will rely on Montero far too much again and there’s no one else on their roster who can put in the goals with the frequency of Montero and N’Kofu. Especially not Nate Jaqua. This team will need someone during the summer transfer window. I think it’ll be an up hill battle to make the playoffs, and could be a disappointing season.
6. Vancouver Whitecaps
Most pundits have already written this club off before MLS opening day. However, I believe the Whitecaps will be in the playoff hunt until the end of the season. They’ve worked hard and done their homework in the offseason. They’ve signed quite a few former division two players, and most pundits have slammed them for this. I say it all the time, but MLS and D2 are not as far off as people believe. Bringing in players the club is already familiar with will help the team bed-in to MLS unlike other expansion teams. Many of these players are unheard of by MLS followers including myself, but I love the way they’ve done it their way and I believe it will pay off. If the Whitecaps can get their DP Eric Hassli off to a strong start it maybe the best signing of the offseason.
7. Chivas USA
Chivas could be a dark horse in the West. They took their time, but finally named Robin Fraser as manager. But most importantly they’ve nearly gotten rid of any player from Preki’s time with the club. They’ve added enough good MLS players that they should have a fighting chance for a playoff spot. The acquisition of Alejandro Moreno should help with the Goats’ offence. Though he doesn’t score a load of goals his high work rate is invaluable. Heath Pearce and Andrew Boyens should help to replace the highly underrated Jonathon Bornstein. Tristen Bowen, once the coveted youth prospect of LA Galaxy, was acquired in the off season could get a lot of playing time for the Goats. I’ve never been too high on Justin Braun and going into his fourth MLS season I need to see more from him if he is to live up to what many MLS pundits already claim him to be. Chivas was able to re-sign Paulo Nagamura midway through last season, and he’ll be able to protect that back four. Nagamura is a fantastic talent and would fit into any team in MLS. They’ll need him to take the pressure off of Ante Jazic and the over the hill Jimmy Conrad. Zarek Valentin is a US U20 and we’ll see if he can make the jump from college to professional. I don’t think they’ll make the playoffs this season and the East will be better than most people think.
8. Portland Timbers
The Timbers come into MLS off a pre-season of solid signings. Kenny Cooper joins from 1860 Munich, and is a proven goal score in the league. They’ve also signed number one draft pick Darling ton Nagbe and he could factor heavily in the teams debut season. Portland has also made a solid acquisition in Jack Jewsbury who is a fantastic MLS veteran that can play across the midfield or as a fullback. He has worn the armband in the pres-season and could do the same during the regular season. The Timbers also have a former goalkeeper of the year in Troy Perkins who will hope to rebound from last season disappointment with DC. This team should challenge for a playoff spot up until the end of the season, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they get in.
9. San Jose Earthquakes
San Jose was able to make it into the playoffs last season on the back of a career year by Chris Wondolowski. He won’t do that again. Wondolowski is coming into his seventh year in the league and it wasn’t until last season that he had scored more than four goals in a season. Last year he benefited from Bobby Convey’s return to form and the inabilities of other San Jose strikers. He isn’t the type of striker to have consistent scoring seasons and with his fall off it will keep San Jose at the bottom of the West. They do have some decent players such as Sam Cronin, but overall this team is poor. Goalkeeping is their strength, but with a porous defence and no major acquisitions in the offseason I don’t expect much.
Halftime: Chivas USA v. Sporting KC
Well I've said Jimmy Conrad was over the hill and if you've watched the first 45 minutes of this game you'd be stupid not to agree. Conrad and Zarek Valentine have looked off the pace and non-MLS quality in this one. SKC's C.J. Sapong has dominated this match early on up front. He has been every where and SKC's most dangerous player. However, Chivas are only down 2-0, because of some of the worse defending you'll see all season. Terrible passing at the back and the inability to mark an opposing player are killing Chivas. Sporting have scored two on two shots on target and there's no defending in front of Zach Thorton. Though they've been the better team the scoreline does flatter Sporting at the break.
After the first goal, scored by Sapong following a Chivas player passing the ball right to him- though it was excellent control and a cool finish, Chivas started to assert themselves in the match, however, SKC weathered a weak storm and have doubled their lead through a classy little chip from Omar Bravo. Chivas should have dealt with this as the defenders gave Thorton no chance. Thorton's weight also gave him no chance to race back and make the save. SKC has dominated all phases in this one, but the backline is still untested as Chivas haven't mounted a sustained attack. I've said it a million times and disagreed with the MLS expert pundits, but Justin Braun is not that good. He seems to be farmed out on the right tonight and hasn't factored into the match. He has had pass after pass go off target as well. As a matter of fact both teams have been guilty of poor passing. I'd like to see SKC get the ball down on the floor, rather than so many long balls. They're the better team and have proved it over the first half. But Chivas haven't shown up tonight and not every match will be this easy for Sporting. Milos Stojcev has been solid in the midfield. He hasn't had to do too much and has threaded some lovely passes.
After the first goal, scored by Sapong following a Chivas player passing the ball right to him- though it was excellent control and a cool finish, Chivas started to assert themselves in the match, however, SKC weathered a weak storm and have doubled their lead through a classy little chip from Omar Bravo. Chivas should have dealt with this as the defenders gave Thorton no chance. Thorton's weight also gave him no chance to race back and make the save. SKC has dominated all phases in this one, but the backline is still untested as Chivas haven't mounted a sustained attack. I've said it a million times and disagreed with the MLS expert pundits, but Justin Braun is not that good. He seems to be farmed out on the right tonight and hasn't factored into the match. He has had pass after pass go off target as well. As a matter of fact both teams have been guilty of poor passing. I'd like to see SKC get the ball down on the floor, rather than so many long balls. They're the better team and have proved it over the first half. But Chivas haven't shown up tonight and not every match will be this easy for Sporting. Milos Stojcev has been solid in the midfield. He hasn't had to do too much and has threaded some lovely passes.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Growing Media Interest
As some may know from reading my blog I currently live in Seoul, South Korea. This week I found it very interesting and very telling of where MLS is as a league by two articles written in the Korean Herald (The top English language newspaper here). The first article was a piece written about the Cascadia Derby and the three MLS teams from the region. It focused on Seattle and the way they've helped to influence the league. Today, there is an article that was picked up from a South Carolina newspaper about the return of Charlie Davies and his shot at redemption in football.
Being on the other side of the world it's interesting to note MLS getting some print space as this newspaper could write about any of the European leagues in which Korean players play. It can also write about the Korean K-League or the high quality Japan J-League. This shows just where MLS is right now, and in my opinion David Beckham is not needed for this publicity; just good football and good supporters.
Being on the other side of the world it's interesting to note MLS getting some print space as this newspaper could write about any of the European leagues in which Korean players play. It can also write about the Korean K-League or the high quality Japan J-League. This shows just where MLS is right now, and in my opinion David Beckham is not needed for this publicity; just good football and good supporters.
Friday, March 18, 2011
MLS continues to frustrate me
I know I bitch alot about the MLS, but I feel there's so much they can do to make the league better. Today, my problem is with MLSsoccer.com and MLS's inability to allow people like myself who are outside of North America to subscribe to MLSsoccer.com in order to watch MLS matches. In 2007, when I first moved abroad was able to get the Direct Kick subscription via MLS's website. However, since then they have not allowed subscriptions outside of the US, atleast in the countries I've lived in. I understand if they have a deal in place with TV networks in other countries. However, during my time living in South Korea, England and South Korea again there (to my knowledge) is no deal in place to show the games on TV. I do, however, pick up the games on illegal feeds. Wouldn't it be in MLS's best interest to take my money for a subscription rather than having people like myself watch the game illegally? There are plenty of people abroad both American and non-Americans who would subscribe.
Though I am not able to watch any games in England or South Korea, though this past season's MLS Cup final was carried on Sky in England I believe, I was able to watch one game a week while I lived in Budapest, Hungary last summer and fall. Unfortunately, the deal must have been made on the back of David Beckham's signing to MLS; as LA Galaxy were typically the featured team.
Though I am not able to watch any games in England or South Korea, though this past season's MLS Cup final was carried on Sky in England I believe, I was able to watch one game a week while I lived in Budapest, Hungary last summer and fall. Unfortunately, the deal must have been made on the back of David Beckham's signing to MLS; as LA Galaxy were typically the featured team.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
What a crock of shit!
This morning as I checked the MLS news sites in my office, as I live/work in Seoul, Korea so I'm sleeping when some of the MLS news is being reported on, I found out that Chad Johnson or Chad Ochocinco is on trial with Sporting KC. I can't even express my anger and frustration at the team I support (mostly by default as I'm orignally from Missouri).
This is simply a PR move by a team that is trying to get their (new) name out to the public. Despite playing as a youth this is a person who hasn't played soccer at any level since he was a kid; and he's 33 now. The age most professional soccer players end their careers. This is simply an American football player who has used his "love" of soccer to promote himself and his massive ego. He has had to use his outlandish acts to make a name for himself throughout his career as his abilities, though plentiful, wouldn't have made him stand out in the NFL. Johnson's NFL contract is more than the entire SKC roster make and that includes SKC DP Omar Bravo. Is he really going to take league minimum or below DP salary if SKC is stupid enough to sign him, which I can definitely see as a PR move. I can definitely see him playing at least a summer friendly and I can see him causing a division in the locker room. Even if he doesn't have the soccer ability he says he has, there's no doubting he has atheletic ability. However, numerous college draft picks every season come into the league with atheletic ability and don't last most than a season or two; if that.
SKC has already achieved their goal, because myself and other bloggers are writing about them. Kudos for them on that, but if they are to continue with this it demeans them as a club even more. I've said for a long time that the OnGoal company that runs this team is clueless in the game and I think this makes them look on par. Too many SKC pundits give them a lot of credit as an ownership group. Which I think stems from OnGoal keeping the Wizards in Kansas City and not relocating the team. In my opinion this trial also makes the league look like a Mickey Mouse operation. Who's next Kobe Bryant? Lebron? Mike Tyson?
Fine, he may have or had some soccer abilities, but he isn't a soccer player at this level. Lets not make the same showboat mistake the NASL made, and lets improve on the quality of play on the pitch. Not the names on the pitch. That is the only way this league will be respected in the eye of the world and people continually come out to watch good teams. Even Beckham and Henry don't have the same pull they once had. And are people going to come out to see SKC just because of a egomanic NFL player? I highly doubt many people will come out solely because of it.
Finally, is Johnson aware that he wears the number 85? I say this becaus he changed his name to Ochocinco which means 8, 5. The number 85 is actually ochenta y cinco, but hey most Bud Light swigging NFL fans wouldn't know that.
I can't imagine Johnson being able to play to this level and I honestly think he'll be found out early on. Dribbling a soccer ball by yourself and doing keepy-ups is fine when you're on your own; but when you have a professional who has played most of their youth and adult life marking you it is much different. I would love this charade to be over, but I know better than that. I can see SKC signing Johnson, and I wouldn't be surprised if the league urged them to do so for the publicity.
This is simply a PR move by a team that is trying to get their (new) name out to the public. Despite playing as a youth this is a person who hasn't played soccer at any level since he was a kid; and he's 33 now. The age most professional soccer players end their careers. This is simply an American football player who has used his "love" of soccer to promote himself and his massive ego. He has had to use his outlandish acts to make a name for himself throughout his career as his abilities, though plentiful, wouldn't have made him stand out in the NFL. Johnson's NFL contract is more than the entire SKC roster make and that includes SKC DP Omar Bravo. Is he really going to take league minimum or below DP salary if SKC is stupid enough to sign him, which I can definitely see as a PR move. I can definitely see him playing at least a summer friendly and I can see him causing a division in the locker room. Even if he doesn't have the soccer ability he says he has, there's no doubting he has atheletic ability. However, numerous college draft picks every season come into the league with atheletic ability and don't last most than a season or two; if that.
SKC has already achieved their goal, because myself and other bloggers are writing about them. Kudos for them on that, but if they are to continue with this it demeans them as a club even more. I've said for a long time that the OnGoal company that runs this team is clueless in the game and I think this makes them look on par. Too many SKC pundits give them a lot of credit as an ownership group. Which I think stems from OnGoal keeping the Wizards in Kansas City and not relocating the team. In my opinion this trial also makes the league look like a Mickey Mouse operation. Who's next Kobe Bryant? Lebron? Mike Tyson?
Fine, he may have or had some soccer abilities, but he isn't a soccer player at this level. Lets not make the same showboat mistake the NASL made, and lets improve on the quality of play on the pitch. Not the names on the pitch. That is the only way this league will be respected in the eye of the world and people continually come out to watch good teams. Even Beckham and Henry don't have the same pull they once had. And are people going to come out to see SKC just because of a egomanic NFL player? I highly doubt many people will come out solely because of it.
Finally, is Johnson aware that he wears the number 85? I say this becaus he changed his name to Ochocinco which means 8, 5. The number 85 is actually ochenta y cinco, but hey most Bud Light swigging NFL fans wouldn't know that.
I can't imagine Johnson being able to play to this level and I honestly think he'll be found out early on. Dribbling a soccer ball by yourself and doing keepy-ups is fine when you're on your own; but when you have a professional who has played most of their youth and adult life marking you it is much different. I would love this charade to be over, but I know better than that. I can see SKC signing Johnson, and I wouldn't be surprised if the league urged them to do so for the publicity.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Eastern Conference Predictions for 2011
After much time away I have return with my predictions for the 2011 MLS season. It has been a long off season, but finally we have MLS opening day (I will never say first kick, what a terrible phrase)! Being on the other side of the world I still have a good 20 hours until kick-off, so I thought it was time I posted my thoughts and predictions on how the season will turn out. As we all know 10 teams (out of 18) will make the play-offs, so with the added expansion I still feel a .500 record will get you in the play-offs; similar to the past three season when we saw the Red Bulls, Salt Lake and Colorado all make the playoffs and the final. Two of which went on to win the final as we all know. Here is how I think the league will look by the end of the season:
Eastern Conference:
1. Red Bull New York
There's no denying the East is the weaker of the two conferences. New York isn't exacty my run away favorites in the East, but I think they'll do that little extra. Marquez and Ream were solid for New York last season and they form the bedrock of this team. Henry didn't set the league on fire, or put too many fans in the stands upon his arrival. However, he is finally rested and could be the catalyst to New York's season. It's still not confirmed that Juan Agudelo will play a major part, but the Red Bulls need someone to fill the void left by Juan Pablo Angel's move to LA. Joel Lindpere was an underrated player last season and for the Red Bulls to
succeed they will need him to have another stellar year in the midfield. I think Angel's goals will be sorely missed as the seasons wears on especially if the Red Bulls find themselves going deep in the Open Cup as well.
2. DC United
I will say it now: Charlie Davies will score more than 20 goals and he will dominate MLS before moving back to Sochaux in France. Davies was in his prime before his car accident, and if he can conjure up some of what made him part of the USMNT he will be on a different level than all other MLS strikers. DC also has a solid midfield with Quaranta, Najar, McCarty, Sims, Morsink, Boskovic and King. I think this is the best midfield in the league with four solid starters and cover for each. However, the problem with DC is the back line and the uncertainity in goal. Will it be Onstad or Hamid or will someone else take control between the posts. DC has made some fantastic additions and some not so great ones (Josh Wolff), but they're better now than at
this point last season. I think they're the dark horse in the East and I wouldn't be surprised if they over take NY for the top spot. However, if DC get off to a bad start I don't expect Ben Olsen to make it past May. I still believe the DC front office is waiting for Mr. DCU to fall, and allow the front office to say, "I told you so," to all of United's supporters.
3. Philadelphia Union
If the Union have solved their goalkeeping problems then they'll be tough to beat. They've signed Faryd Mondragon on a free from FC Koln and despite being in his late 30s he should be an upgrade over Chris Seitz. Sebastion Le Toux showed why he was such a coveted signing for the Union. He was one of the best players in the league last season and if he would have been on a better team he would have gotten more recognition for it. He should have more help from Danny Mwanga who is beginning his second
season and has a lot to prove after being snubbed for last seaon's rookie of the year. This is a good workmen like team that embodies the Philadelphia mentality and they will make the play-offs by holding off the rest of the conference with that workmen like grit.
4. Columbus Crew
Columbus is still finding themselves after winning MLS Cup in '08. This club is a shell of that team, but has gotten younger this season by letting the likes of Frankie Hejduk and Barros-Scheletto leave. I still think the attacking key for this team is Eddie Gaven. A truly underrated MLS veteran still in his early 20s, that when played centrally can hold the key to unlocking defenses. I've never been too impressed by Robbie Rogers: Often injuried and often disappears in matches. I'm not impressed by Mendoza up front either and though
he did score for the Crew upon arrival last season I felt he looked wasteful and in it for himself during the Crew's Champions League matches against Salt Lake. I believe Jeff Cunningham could find a purple patch, however, and if he can chip in with atleast five goals Columbus will avoid the bottom half of the conference. The fullbacks looked weak in the Champions League affair with SLC, and if they can be exploited with pace during the season will be Columbus' undoing.
5. Sporting Kansas City
A lot has happened in the offseason for KC. They've changed their name, signed DP Omar Bravo and released former KC icon Jimmy Conrad. Releasing Conrad was a good move as his best days are behind him, and though he was a good player for the team I'm not quite sure why so many KC supporters have put him on a pedastal. There are high hopes for Bravo, but KC fans don't seem to realize he isn't the scorer he once was. Those days have been behind him since his move to Spain's Deportivo La Coruna. He should atleast chip in with five goals. Unfortunately, he is a DP center forward and more should be expected from him. KC does have an exciting 4-3-3 formation, but with last season's most exciting player Jimmy Smith still recovering from offseason surgery KC will lack pace and creativity on the wing. The backline hasn't improved vastly over last season, and I still don't feel Jimmy Nielsen was much of an upgrade over Kevin Hartman. I think this team is moving in the right direction under Peter Vermes despite some players needing to be moved on like Davy Arnaud, though the team recently moved Jack Jewsbury to Portland. The reason why SKC won't finish in the top half of the conference isn't to do with talent as I think they're just as good if not better than Columbus and Philadelphia. It is their massive road schedule to begin the season. The team will play much of the first half of the season on the road as they wait for their new stadium to open. I feel this will be the team's down fall, and once they open their stadium they will be too far back to contend for a playoff spot.
6. Chicago Fire
Chicago is still paying the price for letting Denis Hamlett go. Which in my opinion was one of the worst pieces of business an MLS team has done in the past few seasons. With that change went Chicago's defensive mentality and in came a team that couldn't prevent goals nor could they score them. I can't see Chicago bouncing back from last season's poor showing. They have found a replacement for Jon Busch in Sean Johnson though it took half the season to find him. But most importantly who's going to score their goals? Brian McBride has retired, Collins John didn't work out and Patrick Nyarko has regressed; not to mention Calen Carr has never lived up to expections and it defies logic he is still in the league. Chicago will continue to struggle and I can't see them improving under their current boss Carlos De Lobos.
7. Toronto FC
This club has been going backwards since the firing/resignation of John Carter. TFC will begin a new season with a new manager, new staff and new players yet again. Fortunately, the club will also begin the season without the clueless Mo Johnston. TFC also has lockerroom unrest to deal with over contract desputes with Adrian Cann and Dwayne De Rosario. Besides DeRo I'm not sure where TFC will get their goals this season. I think Maicon Santos was a brilliant signing, but the recently acquired Alan Gordan will not score many as he has proven in the past. He won't create his own goals and there isn't the service to allow him chances. He will give Santos much needed rest as the season gets into full swing. There's still questions surrounding Julian De Guzman's fitness following offseason surgery and will he contribute to the cause this season or continue to be a passenger on the field. Again there are too many off the field problems for TFC to compete and the playoffs will continue to elude them. Lets not forget Aaron Winter's implemeting of the "Total Football" Dutch system, which in my opinion is not capable of being run by many MLS teams. This isn't a system that can be master in one season, and by the time it starts to look good I think TFC will have had enough of the Dutch experiment.
8. Houston Dynamo
Many feel Houston will have an easy route to the playoffs now that they reside in the Eastern Conference. I'm not sure what team they've been watching over the past two seasons, but this isn't the Dynamo that won back-to-back MLS Cups. There's no more Stuart Holden, De Ro or Ricardo Clark and Brian Ching is one long term injury away from hanging up his boots. Dominic Kinnear is a fantastic manager, but this team is sorely lacking talent; and Bobby Boswell and Geoff Cameron (if he's fit) cannot carry this team. I feel this will be Kinnear's last season in charge of Houston and a rebuidling will be in order as they look to open their new stadium in thenot to distant future.
9. New England Revolution
What can I say about New England? One of the best managers in MLS, Steve Nicol, has done wonders for this team. I honestly can't believe he has stuck with this sinking ship for this long. New England are under funded by the Kraft Family and look ridiculous on the field. Some years ago MLS contemplated contracting this team, and I'm sure Robert Kraft is wishing they would have. They're no closer to their own stadium nor are they closer to having a team that can compete for honors. Yes, they've done well in the Open Cup and
Superliga; but they've struggled mightily in MLS play and look like a second class team. Shalrie Joesph missed much of last season, and is now 32. There's not much left in those legs. Many of his best season were next to the underrated Jeff Larentowicz who did the dirty work and allowed Joesph the freedom to cover more ground on the pitch, much like what Larentowicz did for Pablo Mastroeni last season. There's just not enough quality on this team and if they are able to finish in the top of the conference it shows how good Steve Nicol is as a manager.
Western Conference coming soon...
Eastern Conference:
1. Red Bull New York
There's no denying the East is the weaker of the two conferences. New York isn't exacty my run away favorites in the East, but I think they'll do that little extra. Marquez and Ream were solid for New York last season and they form the bedrock of this team. Henry didn't set the league on fire, or put too many fans in the stands upon his arrival. However, he is finally rested and could be the catalyst to New York's season. It's still not confirmed that Juan Agudelo will play a major part, but the Red Bulls need someone to fill the void left by Juan Pablo Angel's move to LA. Joel Lindpere was an underrated player last season and for the Red Bulls to
succeed they will need him to have another stellar year in the midfield. I think Angel's goals will be sorely missed as the seasons wears on especially if the Red Bulls find themselves going deep in the Open Cup as well.
2. DC United
I will say it now: Charlie Davies will score more than 20 goals and he will dominate MLS before moving back to Sochaux in France. Davies was in his prime before his car accident, and if he can conjure up some of what made him part of the USMNT he will be on a different level than all other MLS strikers. DC also has a solid midfield with Quaranta, Najar, McCarty, Sims, Morsink, Boskovic and King. I think this is the best midfield in the league with four solid starters and cover for each. However, the problem with DC is the back line and the uncertainity in goal. Will it be Onstad or Hamid or will someone else take control between the posts. DC has made some fantastic additions and some not so great ones (Josh Wolff), but they're better now than at
this point last season. I think they're the dark horse in the East and I wouldn't be surprised if they over take NY for the top spot. However, if DC get off to a bad start I don't expect Ben Olsen to make it past May. I still believe the DC front office is waiting for Mr. DCU to fall, and allow the front office to say, "I told you so," to all of United's supporters.
3. Philadelphia Union
If the Union have solved their goalkeeping problems then they'll be tough to beat. They've signed Faryd Mondragon on a free from FC Koln and despite being in his late 30s he should be an upgrade over Chris Seitz. Sebastion Le Toux showed why he was such a coveted signing for the Union. He was one of the best players in the league last season and if he would have been on a better team he would have gotten more recognition for it. He should have more help from Danny Mwanga who is beginning his second
season and has a lot to prove after being snubbed for last seaon's rookie of the year. This is a good workmen like team that embodies the Philadelphia mentality and they will make the play-offs by holding off the rest of the conference with that workmen like grit.
4. Columbus Crew
Columbus is still finding themselves after winning MLS Cup in '08. This club is a shell of that team, but has gotten younger this season by letting the likes of Frankie Hejduk and Barros-Scheletto leave. I still think the attacking key for this team is Eddie Gaven. A truly underrated MLS veteran still in his early 20s, that when played centrally can hold the key to unlocking defenses. I've never been too impressed by Robbie Rogers: Often injuried and often disappears in matches. I'm not impressed by Mendoza up front either and though
he did score for the Crew upon arrival last season I felt he looked wasteful and in it for himself during the Crew's Champions League matches against Salt Lake. I believe Jeff Cunningham could find a purple patch, however, and if he can chip in with atleast five goals Columbus will avoid the bottom half of the conference. The fullbacks looked weak in the Champions League affair with SLC, and if they can be exploited with pace during the season will be Columbus' undoing.
5. Sporting Kansas City
A lot has happened in the offseason for KC. They've changed their name, signed DP Omar Bravo and released former KC icon Jimmy Conrad. Releasing Conrad was a good move as his best days are behind him, and though he was a good player for the team I'm not quite sure why so many KC supporters have put him on a pedastal. There are high hopes for Bravo, but KC fans don't seem to realize he isn't the scorer he once was. Those days have been behind him since his move to Spain's Deportivo La Coruna. He should atleast chip in with five goals. Unfortunately, he is a DP center forward and more should be expected from him. KC does have an exciting 4-3-3 formation, but with last season's most exciting player Jimmy Smith still recovering from offseason surgery KC will lack pace and creativity on the wing. The backline hasn't improved vastly over last season, and I still don't feel Jimmy Nielsen was much of an upgrade over Kevin Hartman. I think this team is moving in the right direction under Peter Vermes despite some players needing to be moved on like Davy Arnaud, though the team recently moved Jack Jewsbury to Portland. The reason why SKC won't finish in the top half of the conference isn't to do with talent as I think they're just as good if not better than Columbus and Philadelphia. It is their massive road schedule to begin the season. The team will play much of the first half of the season on the road as they wait for their new stadium to open. I feel this will be the team's down fall, and once they open their stadium they will be too far back to contend for a playoff spot.
6. Chicago Fire
Chicago is still paying the price for letting Denis Hamlett go. Which in my opinion was one of the worst pieces of business an MLS team has done in the past few seasons. With that change went Chicago's defensive mentality and in came a team that couldn't prevent goals nor could they score them. I can't see Chicago bouncing back from last season's poor showing. They have found a replacement for Jon Busch in Sean Johnson though it took half the season to find him. But most importantly who's going to score their goals? Brian McBride has retired, Collins John didn't work out and Patrick Nyarko has regressed; not to mention Calen Carr has never lived up to expections and it defies logic he is still in the league. Chicago will continue to struggle and I can't see them improving under their current boss Carlos De Lobos.
7. Toronto FC
This club has been going backwards since the firing/resignation of John Carter. TFC will begin a new season with a new manager, new staff and new players yet again. Fortunately, the club will also begin the season without the clueless Mo Johnston. TFC also has lockerroom unrest to deal with over contract desputes with Adrian Cann and Dwayne De Rosario. Besides DeRo I'm not sure where TFC will get their goals this season. I think Maicon Santos was a brilliant signing, but the recently acquired Alan Gordan will not score many as he has proven in the past. He won't create his own goals and there isn't the service to allow him chances. He will give Santos much needed rest as the season gets into full swing. There's still questions surrounding Julian De Guzman's fitness following offseason surgery and will he contribute to the cause this season or continue to be a passenger on the field. Again there are too many off the field problems for TFC to compete and the playoffs will continue to elude them. Lets not forget Aaron Winter's implemeting of the "Total Football" Dutch system, which in my opinion is not capable of being run by many MLS teams. This isn't a system that can be master in one season, and by the time it starts to look good I think TFC will have had enough of the Dutch experiment.
8. Houston Dynamo
Many feel Houston will have an easy route to the playoffs now that they reside in the Eastern Conference. I'm not sure what team they've been watching over the past two seasons, but this isn't the Dynamo that won back-to-back MLS Cups. There's no more Stuart Holden, De Ro or Ricardo Clark and Brian Ching is one long term injury away from hanging up his boots. Dominic Kinnear is a fantastic manager, but this team is sorely lacking talent; and Bobby Boswell and Geoff Cameron (if he's fit) cannot carry this team. I feel this will be Kinnear's last season in charge of Houston and a rebuidling will be in order as they look to open their new stadium in thenot to distant future.
9. New England Revolution
What can I say about New England? One of the best managers in MLS, Steve Nicol, has done wonders for this team. I honestly can't believe he has stuck with this sinking ship for this long. New England are under funded by the Kraft Family and look ridiculous on the field. Some years ago MLS contemplated contracting this team, and I'm sure Robert Kraft is wishing they would have. They're no closer to their own stadium nor are they closer to having a team that can compete for honors. Yes, they've done well in the Open Cup and
Superliga; but they've struggled mightily in MLS play and look like a second class team. Shalrie Joesph missed much of last season, and is now 32. There's not much left in those legs. Many of his best season were next to the underrated Jeff Larentowicz who did the dirty work and allowed Joesph the freedom to cover more ground on the pitch, much like what Larentowicz did for Pablo Mastroeni last season. There's just not enough quality on this team and if they are able to finish in the top of the conference it shows how good Steve Nicol is as a manager.
Western Conference coming soon...
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