Nights like last night's 0-2 Sounders defeat at Saprissa are so hard.
For the first 35 or so minutes of the match, I sat here in my living room with a confident smirk on my face. The Rave Green were having their way with the Costa Ricans and a goal felt imminent. Then, Leo kicked through a loose ball and his cleats ran into an opposing player. Intentional or not...warranted or not, that single moment all but effectively ended the Seattle Sounders run in the 2010-11 CONCACAF Champions League.
It was a harsh turn of events for all of those that bleed Raven Green. Lucky for all of us, we still have so much yet to play for this season. With the U.S. Open Cup FINAL at Qwest Field on October 5th and the MLS playoffs beckoning, the stretch run is just beginning. Some other thoughts:
- I am really looking forward to getting Blaise back on the pitch for our offense. After Leo's red card last night, his presence still wouldn't have mattered. However, we need the big Swiss striker to hold the ball up this weekend against a stout Columbus Crew.
- Another tactical change that Sigi seemed to allude to last night was his inclusion of El Flaco into central midfield. It was interesting especially considering that down a man, I thought a defensive minded Nate Sturgis was surely meant to stay in the match until the end. However, El Flaco was inserted for Sturgis to create an offensive spark. His influence and class certainly gave the Sounders a glimmer of hope last night despite being down a man for 50+ minutes. I would love to see a midfield that looks like this come Saturday: Zakuani, Alonso, Flaco, and Nyassi.
- I heart Ossie Alonso and his PK attempt last night was well taken. However, after Fredy Montero was fouled to cause the PK, I was shocked to see Ossie be the one to step up and take the shot. Fredy was given the armband last night as a sign of his maturing leadership on the team. Now, I wonder who emphatically a Montero PK conversion would have even furthered that leadership on the team.
-----------------------------
On a totally unrelated Sounders note- check this video out: Dying Bravely. It's going to tug at your heartstrings if you are any kind of a USMNT supporter. Until next time...
- DTRT
9.15.2010
9.10.2010
Thoughts from last night: SSFC v. RSL
Before I head to work on this cloudy Friday- a few thoughts on last nights' SSFC v. RSL match:
- Was it just me or did Ozzie Alonso and Kyle Beckerman completely dominate this match? Those two were absolutely all over their opposition and imposed their will on this match from the beginning. Sans Keller's beautiful save on Robbie Findley's horrid PK- Alonso and Beckerman were the main reason why this ended up being a scoreless draw.
- About that Findley PK: Definitely a deserved PK due to Parke's trip, but didn't the ball go out of bounds just before that? The play was on the opposite side of the field from where I was sitting, but I coulda swore...and as I tweeted yesterday- I really hope that Bob Bradley was watching last night. Here's to Robbie Findley never being called up for the USMNT ever again. Cheers!
- The Sounders attack seemed more than a bit disjointed last night. Is fatigue starting to set after a pretty congested schedule over the last month? Or is this just a bump in the road? I personally feel that it's not a coincidence that our attacking struggles the last couple matches mirror Blaise N'kufo being out with an injury. Many of my fellow supporters have been somewhat critical of the Swiss striker due to a lack of Swiss-based goals up to this point. However, it became more clear to me last night why he's so critical to our attack. Jaqua did a pretty decent job last night being that the target man. However, he wasn't able to hold the ball up nearly as effectively as Blaise has been doing the last month or so. Blaise's physical presence and ability to hold the ball at the top of the 18 has opened up so much for the team offensively. I wonder if the result would've been better against the stingy RSL defense if Blaise would've been available for the tie.
- Considering RSL is (in my opinion) the class of the MLS right now and we definitely were off from an offensive perspective last night...I'll take a draw. It was the right result and not an entirely terrible one.
------------------------------
One more thing...many of you read that one of the Sounders Pac NW soccer neighbors, the Portland Timbers, put up a billboard promoting their 2011 inagural season just a few minutes south of Qwest. This has certainly stoked the rivalry to another level, but I'm certainly not upset about it. As a fan of the game, I welcome it. Next year's inclusion of the Whitecaps and Timbers will bring a TRUE soccer rivalry to MLS for the first time. It's a great thing for the sport in this country.
And as a Sounders supporter, I welcome it as well. Bring it on Portland. I have full confidence that we'll do our talking on the pitch next year.
- DTRT
- Was it just me or did Ozzie Alonso and Kyle Beckerman completely dominate this match? Those two were absolutely all over their opposition and imposed their will on this match from the beginning. Sans Keller's beautiful save on Robbie Findley's horrid PK- Alonso and Beckerman were the main reason why this ended up being a scoreless draw.
- About that Findley PK: Definitely a deserved PK due to Parke's trip, but didn't the ball go out of bounds just before that? The play was on the opposite side of the field from where I was sitting, but I coulda swore...and as I tweeted yesterday- I really hope that Bob Bradley was watching last night. Here's to Robbie Findley never being called up for the USMNT ever again. Cheers!
- The Sounders attack seemed more than a bit disjointed last night. Is fatigue starting to set after a pretty congested schedule over the last month? Or is this just a bump in the road? I personally feel that it's not a coincidence that our attacking struggles the last couple matches mirror Blaise N'kufo being out with an injury. Many of my fellow supporters have been somewhat critical of the Swiss striker due to a lack of Swiss-based goals up to this point. However, it became more clear to me last night why he's so critical to our attack. Jaqua did a pretty decent job last night being that the target man. However, he wasn't able to hold the ball up nearly as effectively as Blaise has been doing the last month or so. Blaise's physical presence and ability to hold the ball at the top of the 18 has opened up so much for the team offensively. I wonder if the result would've been better against the stingy RSL defense if Blaise would've been available for the tie.
- Considering RSL is (in my opinion) the class of the MLS right now and we definitely were off from an offensive perspective last night...I'll take a draw. It was the right result and not an entirely terrible one.
------------------------------
One more thing...many of you read that one of the Sounders Pac NW soccer neighbors, the Portland Timbers, put up a billboard promoting their 2011 inagural season just a few minutes south of Qwest. This has certainly stoked the rivalry to another level, but I'm certainly not upset about it. As a fan of the game, I welcome it. Next year's inclusion of the Whitecaps and Timbers will bring a TRUE soccer rivalry to MLS for the first time. It's a great thing for the sport in this country.
And as a Sounders supporter, I welcome it as well. Bring it on Portland. I have full confidence that we'll do our talking on the pitch next year.
- DTRT
9.08.2010
My favorite season.
I love the fall.
Cooler weather, the Pacific NW rain starts up again (which I actually enjoy) and plenty of sports to follow make it my favorite season of the year. Here are four reasons that reaffirm my feelings:
- European soccer leagues are in full swing.
- MLS playoff push on full force.
- MLB pennant races are starting to take shape.
- College and NFL football kicks off their respective seasons.
This weekend is the unofficial beginning for my favorite season. It is no coincidence that this sentiment is directly tied to the beginning of the 2010 NFL season. Tomorrow night the Saints and Vikings kick off yet another season of America's new pasttime. My Browns open the season away to the Tampa Bay Bucs. Both teams are in full rebuilding mode as they start 2010. The Bucs continue to bank on their second year QB, Josh Freeman, to lead them to something more than 4 wins this year. While the Browns new era is led by someone that is quite revered here in the Pac NW, Mike Holmgren. New QB, Jake Delhomme, had a pretty decent preseason, but the jury is definitely out on whether or not that can translate into regular season success. Either way, the Browns have more talent (rare) and I feel are the better team in this matchup. Plus, how can a true fan not open the season riding a wave that sort of resembles optimism.
PREDICTION: Browns 23, Bucs 13
The Premier League gets back to business after a break that allowed some Euro 2012 qualifiers to be played and some local English teams to get supported (click on this link- its a great read). Liverpool are away to transfer window dynamos Birmingham City (8 a.m. PST on FSC). My favorite Merseysiders scraped by against EPL new boys, West Brom two weekends ago and recently lost Dutch goal-scorer, Dirk Kuyt to a shoulder injury while he was away on national team duty. It definitely has not been a great start to the campaign for the Reds. I'd like to be encouraged by Roy Hodgson's transfer window signings, but only one thing truly has me encouraged about the Reds' chances on this particular weekend- the Spainard dubbed El Nino. Fernando Torres scored a brace for Spain last week and that could only mean good thing for Liverpool.
PREDICTION: Liverpool 2, Birmingham 1
My beloved Rave Green are set to entertain the reigning MLS champions, Real Salt Lake tomorrow night. RSL is probably the best club in the league right now (this FC Dallas hype is really getting out of hand). However, the Sounders definitely have a chip on their shoulders coming off a sobering and unexpected loss to New England over the weekend. All I know is that I cannot WAIT to be with 36,000 of my closest friends tomorrow night signing and chanting my heart out. I want to say that we'd be cheering our club to victory, but I'm not entirely sure with RSL's form at the moment.
PREDICTION: Sounders 2, RSL 2
And finally, the Ohio State Buckeyes host the Hurricanes of Miami University on Saturday. This is a "re-match" of the 2003 National Championship game in which most pundits feel a pass interference call decided the winner of that game. Let us not forget that those teams played a full overtime period to decide that game after that famous pass interference call (and Ohio State was victimized earlier in the fourth quarter by an incorrect out of bounds call on a 3rd and long pass play)...but let's focus on the here and now for a second. The quarterbacks in this game, Terrell Pryor and Jacory Harris, are tremendously talented and are coming off great starts to their 2010 campaigns last week (both around 250 yards and 3 TDs). While the media and most people are focused on that individual matchup- this game will be decided by which defense plays better. I feel that my Buckeyes definitely have the BETTER defense...and may actually have the FASTER defense in this game.
PREDICTION: Ohio State 31, Miam 24 (no OTs needed this time)
Enjoy the weekend everyone...and DTRT.
9.03.2010
In a row?
That's right Sounders fans...our beloved Rave Green Army has given us a second FINAL in as many MLS years of existence.
I was uber-excited about watching Wednesday night's match for a couple reasons: 1) it was the USOC semi-final and 2) I was hooking up my new laptop to my TV HDMI style for the first time to watch the match. Here are some quick hitting observations that stood out to me during the match:
- FINALLY! We scored a goal against Chivas USA as an MLS franchise. It only took us about 370+ minutes, but it finally happened off the boot of Nate "New Mr. Open Cup" Jaqua.
- More on Nate- dude added his fifth goal of this year's competition (3 matches) later on in stoppage time and it fast helping ease the pain of watching our U.S. Open Cup hero of yesteryear, Seba LeToux, score all those goals for the Union this year.
- Ozzie Alonso is the best defensive midfielder in MLS. I have had a serious man-crush on #6 for a while and Wednesday night only strenghtened...well, you get the point. His vision to get the ball to Zakuani on the second goal by Fredy Montero was a thing of beauty and something (I feel) that didn't get appreciated enough at the time. Ozzie (on the whole) still doesn't get as much appreciation as he deserves. Say what you will about the Ljungberg effect or Montero's hot streak, but Alonso's influence on this run of grand Sounder form cannot be underestimated.
- As for Fredy, dude was right up with Alonso as the best player on the pitch against the Goats. He was dangerous and continually one step ahead of the Chivas defenders (and sometimes his teammates).
The Sounders are at New England for this weekend's fixture. Sigi and the guys have already taken care of business against the Revs once this year...let's hope that we do it again. We sit on 32 points right now in the league table and probably will need at least 42 or 43 to get into the playoffs yet. There are definitely three points for the taking this weekend...I see the Sounders taking them all.
 |
| Thanks to SoundersFC.com for the pic. |
I was uber-excited about watching Wednesday night's match for a couple reasons: 1) it was the USOC semi-final and 2) I was hooking up my new laptop to my TV HDMI style for the first time to watch the match. Here are some quick hitting observations that stood out to me during the match:
- FINALLY! We scored a goal against Chivas USA as an MLS franchise. It only took us about 370+ minutes, but it finally happened off the boot of Nate "New Mr. Open Cup" Jaqua.
- More on Nate- dude added his fifth goal of this year's competition (3 matches) later on in stoppage time and it fast helping ease the pain of watching our U.S. Open Cup hero of yesteryear, Seba LeToux, score all those goals for the Union this year.
- Ozzie Alonso is the best defensive midfielder in MLS. I have had a serious man-crush on #6 for a while and Wednesday night only strenghtened...well, you get the point. His vision to get the ball to Zakuani on the second goal by Fredy Montero was a thing of beauty and something (I feel) that didn't get appreciated enough at the time. Ozzie (on the whole) still doesn't get as much appreciation as he deserves. Say what you will about the Ljungberg effect or Montero's hot streak, but Alonso's influence on this run of grand Sounder form cannot be underestimated.
- As for Fredy, dude was right up with Alonso as the best player on the pitch against the Goats. He was dangerous and continually one step ahead of the Chivas defenders (and sometimes his teammates).
The Sounders are at New England for this weekend's fixture. Sigi and the guys have already taken care of business against the Revs once this year...let's hope that we do it again. We sit on 32 points right now in the league table and probably will need at least 42 or 43 to get into the playoffs yet. There are definitely three points for the taking this weekend...I see the Sounders taking them all.
8.27.2010
2010 NFL Predictions
I just like this picture. Now onto my predictions...
-------------------------------------------------------------
Even though soccer is #1 in my favorite sports rankings, I still love me some pigskin. More specifically, I still love me some Cleveland Browns. I am pretty darn optimistic about how the “Holmgren Era” has started and what it may mean for the Dawg Pound faithful in the near-ish future. Hopefully that walrus-mustached genius will help the Browns cancel out the following little factoid: The only statistic that the Browns have led the NFL since rejoining the league in 1999 has been #1 draft pick flops (see: Couch, Tim; Brown, Courtney; Warren, Gerrard; Quinn, Brady; etc…). But, I digress…
We’re only approaching the third week of the preseason and there are many injuries that could still occur, but I say- why wait? It’s not like prognostications work out very often anyway, right? So without much further ado, I give you my 2010 NFL predictions (ode to Late Night with Conan O’Brien).
In the year two thousaaaaaaannnnnnndddddddddddd and ten….
- T.O. and Ochocinco will have over 1000 receiving yards…apiece.
In the year two thousaaaaaaannnnnnndddddddddddd and ten….
- Commissioner Roger Goodell will (hopefully) realize that the 18 game schedule he and the owners are planning is a HORRIBLE IDEA FOR THE GAME.
In the year two thousaaaaaaannnnnnndddddddddddd and ten….
- Tony Romo will strike up a heated romance with Snooki. They both will make an appearance at Super Bowl XLV in Cowboys Stadium…as spectators.
In the year two thousaaaaaaannnnnnndddddddddddd and ten….
- Jay Cutler will improve upon his 26 interception total from 2009, but regardless the Bears will finish last in the NFC North.
In the year two thousaaaaaaannnnnnndddddddddddd and ten….
- Redskins DT, Albert Haynesworth will finish the season on the IR due to exhaustion from getting run too much by his coach, Mike Shanahan.
In the year two thousaaaaaaannnnnnndddddddddddd and ten….
- The Jets will gradually implode throughout the season (causing multiple outbursts from head coach, Rex Ryan), but edge out the Ravens for the final AFC playoff spot.
And finally, in the year two thousaaaaaaannnnnnndddddddddddd and ten….
- My predicted order of finish (* denotes playoff team):
AFC East- Patriots*, Jets*, Dolphins, Bills
AFC North- Bengals*, Ravens, Steelers, Browns
AFC South- Colts*, Texans*, Titans, Jaguars
AFC West- Chargers*, Raiders, Broncos, Chiefs
AFC Champion- Colts
NFC East- Cowboys*, Redskins, Giants, Eagles
NFC North- Packers*, Vikings*, Lions, Bears
NFC South- Saints*, Falcons*, Panthers, Tampa Bay
NFC West- 49ers*, Cardinals, Seahawks, Rams
NFC Champion- Packers
SUPER BOWL XLV- Colts 31, Packers 27
What do you think? How crazy am I? Does anyone actually read this blog? Why did I not mention Brett “Will he or won’t he” Favre in this preview? Oh- that’s because I’m over that flip flopper.
8.10.2010
EPL 2010-2011 preview and more
The biggest football league in the world starts its season this weekend. For those of you that think I'm talking about NFL preseason games, you may want to wait a month for my post on that upcoming season. Nay, I'm talking about the English Premier League. There are a slew of previews being posted all over the World Wide Web, but I have a few thoughts to share as well.
First off, one of my favorite bloggers, Mr. MatchFitUSA (or @mfusa on Twitter) posted a piece commenting on how not excited he was for the start of the EPL season. Jason focused more on US-based EPL fans being "annoying" in terms of their level of excitement with a tinge of longing for the same excitement be poured out for our beloved domestic league, MLS. As much as I wish that the MLS was at the level of the EPL in terms of quality, it just isn't there yet and that's ok. I love MLS. I am a Sounders season ticket holder and avid supporter. However, one of the great things that puts soccer above any of my other favorite sports is that there is essentially no offseason for me as a fan. The MLS schedule basically goes from April through November. The EPL season (I'm a Liverpool supporter as well) goes from August to May. Then one can sprinkle in some La Liga and USMNT friendlies and it is hard not to have your soccer fix satiated. What I do not understand are US-based soccer fans that consider MLS soccer to be "beneath" their liking. That's all fair and well, but Euro-snobs are missing out on getting to watch quality soccer year round.
Secondly, I'm cautiously optimistic about the Reds season. The addition of Joe Cole has seemingly been the tipping point in morale for the Liverpool club and faithful supporter base. New manager, Roy Hodgson has done the best job he could be asked (up to this point) of distancing the club's upcoming season from the ownership sale debacle. That being said, if Liverpool can't fight their way back into Champions League soccer for the 2011 campaign, I feel that Fernando Torres is going to run out on the team next summer. I think his "pledge" of loyalty to the club was half-hearted...although I'll take all the goals he is willing to score this season!
Lastly, here are my quickshot predictions for the EPL and other UEFA competitions:
EPL Top 4 (in order of finish): Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool
EPL relegation: Blackpool, Wolves, West Brom
Carling Cup: Manchester City
FA Cup: Manchester United
Europa League: Liverpool
Champions League: Barcelona
Player of the Year: Wayne Rooney
First off, one of my favorite bloggers, Mr. MatchFitUSA (or @mfusa on Twitter) posted a piece commenting on how not excited he was for the start of the EPL season. Jason focused more on US-based EPL fans being "annoying" in terms of their level of excitement with a tinge of longing for the same excitement be poured out for our beloved domestic league, MLS. As much as I wish that the MLS was at the level of the EPL in terms of quality, it just isn't there yet and that's ok. I love MLS. I am a Sounders season ticket holder and avid supporter. However, one of the great things that puts soccer above any of my other favorite sports is that there is essentially no offseason for me as a fan. The MLS schedule basically goes from April through November. The EPL season (I'm a Liverpool supporter as well) goes from August to May. Then one can sprinkle in some La Liga and USMNT friendlies and it is hard not to have your soccer fix satiated. What I do not understand are US-based soccer fans that consider MLS soccer to be "beneath" their liking. That's all fair and well, but Euro-snobs are missing out on getting to watch quality soccer year round.
Secondly, I'm cautiously optimistic about the Reds season. The addition of Joe Cole has seemingly been the tipping point in morale for the Liverpool club and faithful supporter base. New manager, Roy Hodgson has done the best job he could be asked (up to this point) of distancing the club's upcoming season from the ownership sale debacle. That being said, if Liverpool can't fight their way back into Champions League soccer for the 2011 campaign, I feel that Fernando Torres is going to run out on the team next summer. I think his "pledge" of loyalty to the club was half-hearted...although I'll take all the goals he is willing to score this season!
Lastly, here are my quickshot predictions for the EPL and other UEFA competitions:
EPL Top 4 (in order of finish): Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool
EPL relegation: Blackpool, Wolves, West Brom
Carling Cup: Manchester City
FA Cup: Manchester United
Europa League: Liverpool
Champions League: Barcelona
Player of the Year: Wayne Rooney
8.01.2010
The maturation of Fredy Montero and some thank yous.
It's been awhile since my last post. A super-fun-filled summer will do that to a guy...
Needless to say, a few things have been on my mind- especially as of late. First, the Sounders have been on FIRE (pardon the Ljungberg-inspired pun) during their last 8 matches in all competitions. It is no coincidence that this hot streak (6-1-1 record) has coincided with Fredy Montero scoring or assisting on a goal in each of those games. He has been a revelation during this stretch filling in as role of play maker in the absence of the now former member of the Rave Green, Freddie Ljungberg. His stellar play has been praised continuously, however, I want to touch on something that has not received any attention (yet).
Montero took MLS by storm last season while leading the league in shots fired and winning the MLS Newcomer of the Year award for his efforts. However, towards the end of last season, his play deteriorated and became extremely inconsistent. I feel (and am not alone in this assumption) that whispers of Euro-based admiration for the youngster went to his head and became a distraction.
The first two months of this season followed on much of the same path. Montero was frustratingly inconsistent. His lack of hustle and effort (especially while getting back on defense) drew ire from the uber-loyal Sounders fan base. However, someone (I'd bet Sigi Schmid) has lit an intense fire under Fredy. Along with that fire being lit, Montero has began to mature as a player and as a leader for the Sounders. He has been more open in the media and on the field as a leader amongst his peers. This, above all else, I believe is why the Sounders have been on this great run of play as of late.
Couple Montero's new competitive fire and maturation with the Sounders new Designated Players, Blaise N'kufo and Alvaro Fernandez and the Sounders will continue to thrive.
---------------------------------
Secondly, I am not sure I enjoyed a sporting event more than World Cup 2010. Along with millions of others, I was captivated by the USMNT's run into the round of 16. Kudos to Bob Bradley, Landon Donovan and the rest of the boys on a tremendous run. I know I'm not alone when I say that I wish the ride would have never ended...especially against Ghana (again). Regardless, the three weeks in which the run occurred were (quite possibly) the best time in our country's history to be a soccer fan. Thank you Yanks, thank you.
---------------------------------
Lastly (for now), I want to thank Mr. FBM from the Free Beer Movement for the American Outlaws scarf. I was selected as the second best entry in their "How Did I Get Here?" contest explaining how I became a soccer fan in this country.
Until next time....
Needless to say, a few things have been on my mind- especially as of late. First, the Sounders have been on FIRE (pardon the Ljungberg-inspired pun) during their last 8 matches in all competitions. It is no coincidence that this hot streak (6-1-1 record) has coincided with Fredy Montero scoring or assisting on a goal in each of those games. He has been a revelation during this stretch filling in as role of play maker in the absence of the now former member of the Rave Green, Freddie Ljungberg. His stellar play has been praised continuously, however, I want to touch on something that has not received any attention (yet).
Montero took MLS by storm last season while leading the league in shots fired and winning the MLS Newcomer of the Year award for his efforts. However, towards the end of last season, his play deteriorated and became extremely inconsistent. I feel (and am not alone in this assumption) that whispers of Euro-based admiration for the youngster went to his head and became a distraction.
The first two months of this season followed on much of the same path. Montero was frustratingly inconsistent. His lack of hustle and effort (especially while getting back on defense) drew ire from the uber-loyal Sounders fan base. However, someone (I'd bet Sigi Schmid) has lit an intense fire under Fredy. Along with that fire being lit, Montero has began to mature as a player and as a leader for the Sounders. He has been more open in the media and on the field as a leader amongst his peers. This, above all else, I believe is why the Sounders have been on this great run of play as of late.
Couple Montero's new competitive fire and maturation with the Sounders new Designated Players, Blaise N'kufo and Alvaro Fernandez and the Sounders will continue to thrive.
---------------------------------
Secondly, I am not sure I enjoyed a sporting event more than World Cup 2010. Along with millions of others, I was captivated by the USMNT's run into the round of 16. Kudos to Bob Bradley, Landon Donovan and the rest of the boys on a tremendous run. I know I'm not alone when I say that I wish the ride would have never ended...especially against Ghana (again). Regardless, the three weeks in which the run occurred were (quite possibly) the best time in our country's history to be a soccer fan. Thank you Yanks, thank you.
---------------------------------
Lastly (for now), I want to thank Mr. FBM from the Free Beer Movement for the American Outlaws scarf. I was selected as the second best entry in their "How Did I Get Here?" contest explaining how I became a soccer fan in this country.
Until next time....
6.04.2010
My Free Beer Movement entry
One of my favorite blogs, Free Beer Movement has been holding a contest dubbed, "How I Got Here". This contest basically asks for readers to explain how they came to love the beautiful game of soccer. I thought I'd share my recent entry into this contest to help explain how excited I am for World Cup 2010.
----------------------------------------------
I’m a relatively recent convert to the beautiful game.
In the summer of 2006 (just prior to my second deployment to the Middle East), I went under the LASIK knife to fix my flawed vision. I was told to stay at home in my dark apartment for the next four days after the surgery. Fortunately, the World Cup was happening at the time. At first though, I was only able to listen to the announcers describe the sights of epic 1-1 draw between my beloved Yanks and the Azzurri. I was instantly hooked.
Despite the fact that my unit and I deployed during the knockout stages, I made it a priority to find an Internet café to keep myself abreast of World Cup results that year.
Over the subsequent 3 years, I started to “branch out” and develop my appreciation for the EPL and Bundasliga. I would also catch MLS matches whenever they were on ESPN. However, my fandom reached new heights last spring.
My girlfriend grew up in Seattle. When we started dating a couple years back, she would frequently tell tales of going to Qwest Field or the Kingdome to watch the USL Sounders. These stories got me more than a little jacked for the new Seattle MLS franchise.
Then March 19th, 2009 vaulted my love for the game to a borderline obsession. I watched the Seattle Sounders 3-0 victory over New York on that day in the comfort of my home. This has become a rare occurrence since then…mostly because I have tried to attend each and every home game since then.
Singing and chanting with my friends of the Emerald City Supporters in section 119 at Qwest Field has become (by far) my favorite pastime. I spend way more time at my place of work reading various blogs (Match Fit USA & The Shin Guardian are my favorites) than I ever should be allowed to in an attempt to quench my thirst for soccer news and/or knowledge.
So here I am. 6+ days from World Cup 2010. Next Saturday, my beautiful girlfriend and I will be celebrating her birthday…at Doyle’s Public House in our hometown of Tacoma, WA…watching the Yanks beat the Three Lions. I love life.
Sincerely,
Bobby
----------------------------------------------
I’m a relatively recent convert to the beautiful game.
In the summer of 2006 (just prior to my second deployment to the Middle East), I went under the LASIK knife to fix my flawed vision. I was told to stay at home in my dark apartment for the next four days after the surgery. Fortunately, the World Cup was happening at the time. At first though, I was only able to listen to the announcers describe the sights of epic 1-1 draw between my beloved Yanks and the Azzurri. I was instantly hooked.
Despite the fact that my unit and I deployed during the knockout stages, I made it a priority to find an Internet café to keep myself abreast of World Cup results that year.
Over the subsequent 3 years, I started to “branch out” and develop my appreciation for the EPL and Bundasliga. I would also catch MLS matches whenever they were on ESPN. However, my fandom reached new heights last spring.
My girlfriend grew up in Seattle. When we started dating a couple years back, she would frequently tell tales of going to Qwest Field or the Kingdome to watch the USL Sounders. These stories got me more than a little jacked for the new Seattle MLS franchise.
Then March 19th, 2009 vaulted my love for the game to a borderline obsession. I watched the Seattle Sounders 3-0 victory over New York on that day in the comfort of my home. This has become a rare occurrence since then…mostly because I have tried to attend each and every home game since then.
Singing and chanting with my friends of the Emerald City Supporters in section 119 at Qwest Field has become (by far) my favorite pastime. I spend way more time at my place of work reading various blogs (Match Fit USA & The Shin Guardian are my favorites) than I ever should be allowed to in an attempt to quench my thirst for soccer news and/or knowledge.
So here I am. 6+ days from World Cup 2010. Next Saturday, my beautiful girlfriend and I will be celebrating her birthday…at Doyle’s Public House in our hometown of Tacoma, WA…watching the Yanks beat the Three Lions. I love life.
Sincerely,
Bobby
4.04.2010
SSFC v. RBNY thoughts and player ratings
Ugh.
I mean...Happy Easter everyone! I sincerely hope that a lovely holiday is had by all today. However, past the holiday...I feel...ugh.
Last night, our beloved Sounders welcomed the New York Red Bulls into "Green Hell". Thirty six thousand of the most loyal soccer supporters in the country screamed and cheered their hearts out...and the Red Bulls calmly navigated their way through with a workmanlike, 1-0, result. Here are a couple thoughts on a match that I would like to forget about ASAP or sooner:
- The Sounders set pieces were horribly executed. Ljungberg's free and corner kicks were mostly off target. What makes it worse is that we set a team record for the number of corner kicks executed (12) last night. Twelve corners served up....zero goals.
- RBNY newcomers, Joel Lindphere (Estonian national) and Tim Ream (very comfortable looking rookie), are LEGIT.
- Pat Noonan will definitely help.
- Read a good piece on Prost Amerika this morning campaigning for Patrick Ianni's introduction into the starting lineup. I can't say that I disagree with sitting Marshall in favor of our best set piece asset.
- And finally, WHY WAS FREDDY MONTERO PLAYING WIDE THE MAJORITY OF THE NIGHT!?!?!!?!?
.............................................
Player ratings:
Keller - 7; Made some excellent saves and decisions last night in goal. Even the one that went in was off the top cross bar.
Riley - 6; Fairly active and came forward well, especially in the second half.
Hurtado - 6; In decent form all night, but I'm still waiting for the dominant defender he was last year to show up.
Marshall - 6; Defending was solid throughout, but missed a possible equalizing header mid-way through the second half.
Gonzales - 6; Again, solid. I still feel he should take more chances coming forward. He was subbed late in the game for much needed offensive support.
Zakuani - 7.5; Dangerous all night long until he was subbed for Nyassi. His improved ability to work the ball into the middle of the pitch has been the best asset for Sigi's offense.
Evans - 5; Very quiet game from the US international.
Alonso - 6; Ozzie had a solid game overall, but never really was able to control the midfield with Evans as per usual.
Levesque - 4; I love the mustache and the timely goals from last season, but Roger needs to start...on the bench. He had a some badly misplaced passes that hurt last night. Subbed for Noonan in the 56th minute.
Ljungberg - 6; Created plenty of chances, but his service was subpar on free and corner kicks. Glad to see he is feeling better after being kneed in the tailbone last week.
Montero - 5; Not sure why Sigi had Freddy dinking with the ball wide of the box for the majority of the night. Definitely did not play to his strengths. Uninspired performance.
Subs:
Noonan - 6; Newcomer injected some good energy after being introduced. Should start next week over Levesque and show more.
Nyassi - 5; His introduction into the game was unexpected being that he replaced Zak. However, Sanna didn't impact the game like he did last week against Philly.
Estrada - N/A; Late offensive-minded sub. Not in the match for enough time to make an impact in his MLS debut.
NEXT MATCH: @ Real Salt Lake on 4/10 at 6pm PDT
I mean...Happy Easter everyone! I sincerely hope that a lovely holiday is had by all today. However, past the holiday...I feel...ugh.
Last night, our beloved Sounders welcomed the New York Red Bulls into "Green Hell". Thirty six thousand of the most loyal soccer supporters in the country screamed and cheered their hearts out...and the Red Bulls calmly navigated their way through with a workmanlike, 1-0, result. Here are a couple thoughts on a match that I would like to forget about ASAP or sooner:
- The Sounders set pieces were horribly executed. Ljungberg's free and corner kicks were mostly off target. What makes it worse is that we set a team record for the number of corner kicks executed (12) last night. Twelve corners served up....zero goals.
- RBNY newcomers, Joel Lindphere (Estonian national) and Tim Ream (very comfortable looking rookie), are LEGIT.
- Pat Noonan will definitely help.
- Read a good piece on Prost Amerika this morning campaigning for Patrick Ianni's introduction into the starting lineup. I can't say that I disagree with sitting Marshall in favor of our best set piece asset.
- And finally, WHY WAS FREDDY MONTERO PLAYING WIDE THE MAJORITY OF THE NIGHT!?!?!!?!?
.............................................
Player ratings:
Keller - 7; Made some excellent saves and decisions last night in goal. Even the one that went in was off the top cross bar.
Riley - 6; Fairly active and came forward well, especially in the second half.
Hurtado - 6; In decent form all night, but I'm still waiting for the dominant defender he was last year to show up.
Marshall - 6; Defending was solid throughout, but missed a possible equalizing header mid-way through the second half.
Gonzales - 6; Again, solid. I still feel he should take more chances coming forward. He was subbed late in the game for much needed offensive support.
Zakuani - 7.5; Dangerous all night long until he was subbed for Nyassi. His improved ability to work the ball into the middle of the pitch has been the best asset for Sigi's offense.
Evans - 5; Very quiet game from the US international.
Alonso - 6; Ozzie had a solid game overall, but never really was able to control the midfield with Evans as per usual.
Levesque - 4; I love the mustache and the timely goals from last season, but Roger needs to start...on the bench. He had a some badly misplaced passes that hurt last night. Subbed for Noonan in the 56th minute.
Ljungberg - 6; Created plenty of chances, but his service was subpar on free and corner kicks. Glad to see he is feeling better after being kneed in the tailbone last week.
Montero - 5; Not sure why Sigi had Freddy dinking with the ball wide of the box for the majority of the night. Definitely did not play to his strengths. Uninspired performance.
Subs:
Noonan - 6; Newcomer injected some good energy after being introduced. Should start next week over Levesque and show more.
Nyassi - 5; His introduction into the game was unexpected being that he replaced Zak. However, Sanna didn't impact the game like he did last week against Philly.
Estrada - N/A; Late offensive-minded sub. Not in the match for enough time to make an impact in his MLS debut.
NEXT MATCH: @ Real Salt Lake on 4/10 at 6pm PDT
3.26.2010
Sounders FC Game 1: Player ratings and a few thoughts...
"SEATTLE SUNSHINE! SEATTLE SUNSHINE!"
Those words are typically chanted by the ECS when the sky opens up during SSFC matches...much like last night. Let me assure you- by all Pacific NW measures, last night was an extremely "sunny" evening. After yelling and supporting for a full 90, my gf, brother and I were soaked from a consistent downpour throughout last night's Sounder MLS opener. IT WAS TOTALLY WORTH IT.
On to the player ratings:
Kasey Keller- 6; The captain didn't have much to contend with last night sans having to tip one 20 yard screamer over the bar mid-way through the first half. The little he did have to deal with though, he took care of business.
Zach Scott- 5; Mediocre at best last night. He mishandled several passes in the first half, but did get better in the second.
Jhon Kennedy Hurtado- 7; He and his counterpart, Tyrone Marshall, ensured that all Union attackers had a hard time last night. I was especially impressed with his seemingly improved ball handling and passing in the back though. Solid performance.
Tyrone Marshall- 7; Consistently won headers and worked a full 90 to say the least. Kept his cool...for the most part too.
Leo Gonzalez- 5; Played well, but didn't necessarily standout. Did start the ball movement for the first (wonderful) goal though.
Steve Zakuani- 7.5; This kid is so talented and with each game he reveals more and more of it. His brilliant moments (crosses on the Evans goal and the missed shot by Levesque moments later) greatly outnumbered his not-so brilliant moments (several dispossessions). If this match is any indication, Zak is in for a breakout season though.
Roger Levesque- 5.5; Stache did well with his placement on the pitch and possession of the ball throughout. Should have capitalized on a two different clear cut goal scoring opportunities though.
Osvaldo Alonso- 7.5; Ozzie controlled the midfield. His "assist" (looked more like a shot) on Montero's goal was a screamer. He is as consistent of a midfield force as there is in the entire league.
Brad Evans- 8; My man of the match. Tirelessly worked a full 90 and made a great run and finish on the season's first goal. A standout performance.
Freddie Ljungberg- 7; Solid and the heart of the offense throughout. Got shaken up and Sigi made a good call to get him out of there at the 60 min mark. I seriously did not see why Philly coach, Piotr Nowak called him out for "diving" and "dishonest" play last night. Poor loser I say.
Fredy Montero- 7; Worked hard for the majority of the night. If it wasn't for his fearless diving header, I would rate him lower though. Still dinks with the ball too much and ultimately lets the defense catch up to the play.
SUBS
Sanna Nyassi- 6; Great speed and vision during his time in the match. I see good things from him this year. Should have gotten a PK call in the dying moments of the game too.
Mike Fucito- 6; Tirelessly worked for possession and almost added a third goal towards the end.
..................................................................
As JACKED as I am over this opening win, tonight will be dedicated to my beloved Ohio State Buckeyes and their quest for a Final Four berth. For all of your UW fans that are heartbroken, there is plenty of room on the O-H-I-O bandwagon for you! :-)
Those words are typically chanted by the ECS when the sky opens up during SSFC matches...much like last night. Let me assure you- by all Pacific NW measures, last night was an extremely "sunny" evening. After yelling and supporting for a full 90, my gf, brother and I were soaked from a consistent downpour throughout last night's Sounder MLS opener. IT WAS TOTALLY WORTH IT.
On to the player ratings:
Kasey Keller- 6; The captain didn't have much to contend with last night sans having to tip one 20 yard screamer over the bar mid-way through the first half. The little he did have to deal with though, he took care of business.
Zach Scott- 5; Mediocre at best last night. He mishandled several passes in the first half, but did get better in the second.
Jhon Kennedy Hurtado- 7; He and his counterpart, Tyrone Marshall, ensured that all Union attackers had a hard time last night. I was especially impressed with his seemingly improved ball handling and passing in the back though. Solid performance.
Tyrone Marshall- 7; Consistently won headers and worked a full 90 to say the least. Kept his cool...for the most part too.
Leo Gonzalez- 5; Played well, but didn't necessarily standout. Did start the ball movement for the first (wonderful) goal though.
Steve Zakuani- 7.5; This kid is so talented and with each game he reveals more and more of it. His brilliant moments (crosses on the Evans goal and the missed shot by Levesque moments later) greatly outnumbered his not-so brilliant moments (several dispossessions). If this match is any indication, Zak is in for a breakout season though.
Roger Levesque- 5.5; Stache did well with his placement on the pitch and possession of the ball throughout. Should have capitalized on a two different clear cut goal scoring opportunities though.
Osvaldo Alonso- 7.5; Ozzie controlled the midfield. His "assist" (looked more like a shot) on Montero's goal was a screamer. He is as consistent of a midfield force as there is in the entire league.
Brad Evans- 8; My man of the match. Tirelessly worked a full 90 and made a great run and finish on the season's first goal. A standout performance.
Freddie Ljungberg- 7; Solid and the heart of the offense throughout. Got shaken up and Sigi made a good call to get him out of there at the 60 min mark. I seriously did not see why Philly coach, Piotr Nowak called him out for "diving" and "dishonest" play last night. Poor loser I say.
Fredy Montero- 7; Worked hard for the majority of the night. If it wasn't for his fearless diving header, I would rate him lower though. Still dinks with the ball too much and ultimately lets the defense catch up to the play.
SUBS
Sanna Nyassi- 6; Great speed and vision during his time in the match. I see good things from him this year. Should have gotten a PK call in the dying moments of the game too.
Mike Fucito- 6; Tirelessly worked for possession and almost added a third goal towards the end.
..................................................................
As JACKED as I am over this opening win, tonight will be dedicated to my beloved Ohio State Buckeyes and their quest for a Final Four berth. For all of your UW fans that are heartbroken, there is plenty of room on the O-H-I-O bandwagon for you! :-)
3.23.2010
The rest of my 2010 Sounders predictions...
I have decided that writing comments for my picks is a futile task. Humbly, I will admit that the rapid decline in the write-up quality was laughable so I simply am giving it up.
Thus, I will finish this exercise with the game information and a simple prediction. However, I feel it is VERY much worth noting that I pick up my predictions in a point of the schedule that could be very significant. July 15 is projected to be the first available date that Blaise Nkufo will be available to the team after his international duties are fulfilled.
Nkufo represents (what many feel is) the most glaring piece missing to the Sounders arsenal- a true target forward. Nkufo is an internationally renowned striker whose nose for the goal should give the Sounders the added firepower and goal-scoring to push far into the MLS postseason this year. So, without further ado...here goes nothing:
7/15- @ D.C. United (prediction = draw) 6-3-8, 26 pts.
7/25- v. Colorado (prediction = win) 7-3-8, 29 pts.
7/31- @ San Jose (prediction = draw) 7-3-9, 30 pts.
8/8- v. Houston (prediction = loss) 7-4-9, 30 pts.
8/14- @ Chivas USA (prediction = win) 8-4-9, 33 pts.
8/28- v. Chicago (prediction = loss) 8-5-9, 33 pts.
9/4- @ New England (prediction = loss) 8-6-9, 33 pts.
9/9- v. Real Salt Lake (prediction = win) 9-6-9, 36 pts.
9/18- @ Columbus (prediction = draw) 9-6-10, 37 pts.
9/25- @ Chicago (prediction = draw) 9-6-11, 38 pts.
10/2- v. Toronto FC (prediction = win) 10-6-11, 41 pts.
10/9- @ Kansas City (prediction = win) 11-6-11, 44 pts.
10/15- v. Chivas USA (prediction = win) 12-6-11, 47 pts.
10/23- @ Houston (prediction = draw) 12-6-12, 48 pts.
...............................................................................................
I feel like the middle and stretch run portion of the season will be extremely tough for the Sounders. They will have U.S. Open Cup, CONCACAF Champions League group stage matches AND MLS regular season matches to contend with throughout this time period. Their legs will tire and their committment to each competition will be tested. However, I see them finishing towards the top of the table with the possibility of sneaking away with the Supporters Shield (league's best overall record).
Furthermore, I feel that the Sounders have the potential to reach and win the MLS Cup this year. They are a very chic pick to do so in most other soccer blogs and prediction columns:
24th Minute (TFC fansite)
MatchFitUSA (one of my personal faves)
DailySoccerFix (CNNSI's Steve Davis' personal blog)
However, putting aside my personal bias and the above promising prognostications- the Sounders are realistically looking at (potentially) an EXTREMELY successful season.
Now, we have under 48 hours until kickoff! I cannot wait to join 36,000 of my closest friends on Thursday at the Xbox Pitch. :-)
Thus, I will finish this exercise with the game information and a simple prediction. However, I feel it is VERY much worth noting that I pick up my predictions in a point of the schedule that could be very significant. July 15 is projected to be the first available date that Blaise Nkufo will be available to the team after his international duties are fulfilled.
Nkufo represents (what many feel is) the most glaring piece missing to the Sounders arsenal- a true target forward. Nkufo is an internationally renowned striker whose nose for the goal should give the Sounders the added firepower and goal-scoring to push far into the MLS postseason this year. So, without further ado...here goes nothing:
7/15- @ D.C. United (prediction = draw) 6-3-8, 26 pts.
7/25- v. Colorado (prediction = win) 7-3-8, 29 pts.
7/31- @ San Jose (prediction = draw) 7-3-9, 30 pts.
8/8- v. Houston (prediction = loss) 7-4-9, 30 pts.
8/14- @ Chivas USA (prediction = win) 8-4-9, 33 pts.
8/28- v. Chicago (prediction = loss) 8-5-9, 33 pts.
9/4- @ New England (prediction = loss) 8-6-9, 33 pts.
9/9- v. Real Salt Lake (prediction = win) 9-6-9, 36 pts.
9/18- @ Columbus (prediction = draw) 9-6-10, 37 pts.
9/25- @ Chicago (prediction = draw) 9-6-11, 38 pts.
10/2- v. Toronto FC (prediction = win) 10-6-11, 41 pts.
10/9- @ Kansas City (prediction = win) 11-6-11, 44 pts.
10/15- v. Chivas USA (prediction = win) 12-6-11, 47 pts.
10/23- @ Houston (prediction = draw) 12-6-12, 48 pts.
...............................................................................................
I feel like the middle and stretch run portion of the season will be extremely tough for the Sounders. They will have U.S. Open Cup, CONCACAF Champions League group stage matches AND MLS regular season matches to contend with throughout this time period. Their legs will tire and their committment to each competition will be tested. However, I see them finishing towards the top of the table with the possibility of sneaking away with the Supporters Shield (league's best overall record).
Furthermore, I feel that the Sounders have the potential to reach and win the MLS Cup this year. They are a very chic pick to do so in most other soccer blogs and prediction columns:
24th Minute (TFC fansite)
MatchFitUSA (one of my personal faves)
DailySoccerFix (CNNSI's Steve Davis' personal blog)
However, putting aside my personal bias and the above promising prognostications- the Sounders are realistically looking at (potentially) an EXTREMELY successful season.
Now, we have under 48 hours until kickoff! I cannot wait to join 36,000 of my closest friends on Thursday at the Xbox Pitch. :-)
3.20.2010
Sounders season preview cont...
So I decided a while back that I wouldn't finish my season preview until a the MLS-Union labor negotiations were decided. However, this morning I woke up to read Grant Wahl's tweet about a deal was set to be announced later today! So here are my much abbreviated season predictions for the 2010 Seattle Sounders FC campaign (leaving off from my earlier predictions- a 3-1-2 start; 11 pts):
5/1- v. Columbus (prediction = loss) Columbus is coming off a favorable showing during CONCACAF Champions League action and I feel this form is going to continue on into the early MLS season. Probably our toughest fixture at home in the early going.
5/8- v. LA Galaxy (prediction = win) I originally had this as a draw, but being that Donovan will probably be at USMNT pre-World Cup camp- I feel good about our chances to get a favorable result at home.
5/15- @ NY Red Bull (prediction = draw) I feel that NYRB will be a MUCH improved team this year. Angel was not at full fitness for the majority of last year and that hurt their attack immensely. There are still some question marks about their back line, but in their new Red Bull Arena I can only see a draw here for our first trip there.
5/22- v. San Jose (prediction = win) We had a very favorable record against the Earthquakes last year...until they smacked us around in SJ, 0-4. Something tells me the Sounders are going to remember this and get some revenge.
5/29- @ Colorado (prediction = draw) We had a favorable draw result last year in our trip to Colorado. The Rapids have a dangerous offensive team led by oft-called upon USMNT striker, Conor Casey, but I feel a draw coming out of this fixture.
6/5- v. NE Revolution (prediction = draw) We struggled mightily against New England last year in both our matchups. MF Sharlie Joseph is amongst the best in the league and should have probably won the MVP over Landon Donovan last year. A draw here would be disappointing, but likely.
6/10- v. DC United (prediction = win) This is the last fixture doe us before the World Cup break. This fixture last year produced the MLS game of the year in my opinion. However, in the end it was a frustrating draw. I feel we can go into the break on a high note.
6/27- @ Philadephia (prediction = draw) This will mark the opening of the Union's new PPE Park. The home team and supporters will be jacked for this match, but I feel we can sneak out with a draw due to our defensive quality.
7/4- @ LA Galaxy (prediction = loss) Depending on how far that the USMNT gets in the World Cup, Donovan may or may not be back in the lineup for LA here. Either way, we outplayed LA in this fixture last year...it's very hard to do that in back to back years away from home.
7/11- v. FC Dallas (prediction = draw) This match pits two of the best up and coming teams in the Western conference. A draw seems fair here.
Predicted season record up to this point: 6-3-7 (25 points)
..................................................................................................................
While I'm predicting soccer matches...here is my take on the upcoming UEFA Champions League matchups:
Barcelona v. Arsenal- This draw will produce some of the most fluid and beautiful soccer of the year. Either way, Barca is the best club in the world and will outlast Wegner's young and promising club. (Barcelona, 4-2 agg)
CSKA Moscow v. Inter Milan- Jose Mourinho has Inter playing extremely well and there may not be a MF in better form at the moment than Dutch international, Wesley Sneijder. Too much Italian quality here for the Russians. (Inter Milan, 3-2 agg)
Lyon v. Bordeaux- This all-French quarterfinal has two in-form clubs pitted against each other. These two clubs are also fighting with a slew of other clubs for the Ligue Un championship during this time. I have watched both of these clubs and Lyon impressed me the most with their timely finishing. It will be close though. (Lyon, 4-3 agg)
Manchester United v. Bayern Munich- What a tremendous draw this is for a quarterfinal. Rooney v. Ribery. English football supporters v. Bundasliga Supporters. I feel that ManU will win its fourth straight EPL title this year, however Bayern Munich has been in world class form. They haven't lost a league match since September! I'm going for the upset here. (Bayern Munich 5-4 agg)
5/1- v. Columbus (prediction = loss) Columbus is coming off a favorable showing during CONCACAF Champions League action and I feel this form is going to continue on into the early MLS season. Probably our toughest fixture at home in the early going.
5/8- v. LA Galaxy (prediction = win) I originally had this as a draw, but being that Donovan will probably be at USMNT pre-World Cup camp- I feel good about our chances to get a favorable result at home.
5/15- @ NY Red Bull (prediction = draw) I feel that NYRB will be a MUCH improved team this year. Angel was not at full fitness for the majority of last year and that hurt their attack immensely. There are still some question marks about their back line, but in their new Red Bull Arena I can only see a draw here for our first trip there.
5/22- v. San Jose (prediction = win) We had a very favorable record against the Earthquakes last year...until they smacked us around in SJ, 0-4. Something tells me the Sounders are going to remember this and get some revenge.
5/29- @ Colorado (prediction = draw) We had a favorable draw result last year in our trip to Colorado. The Rapids have a dangerous offensive team led by oft-called upon USMNT striker, Conor Casey, but I feel a draw coming out of this fixture.
6/5- v. NE Revolution (prediction = draw) We struggled mightily against New England last year in both our matchups. MF Sharlie Joseph is amongst the best in the league and should have probably won the MVP over Landon Donovan last year. A draw here would be disappointing, but likely.
6/10- v. DC United (prediction = win) This is the last fixture doe us before the World Cup break. This fixture last year produced the MLS game of the year in my opinion. However, in the end it was a frustrating draw. I feel we can go into the break on a high note.
6/27- @ Philadephia (prediction = draw) This will mark the opening of the Union's new PPE Park. The home team and supporters will be jacked for this match, but I feel we can sneak out with a draw due to our defensive quality.
7/4- @ LA Galaxy (prediction = loss) Depending on how far that the USMNT gets in the World Cup, Donovan may or may not be back in the lineup for LA here. Either way, we outplayed LA in this fixture last year...it's very hard to do that in back to back years away from home.
7/11- v. FC Dallas (prediction = draw) This match pits two of the best up and coming teams in the Western conference. A draw seems fair here.
Predicted season record up to this point: 6-3-7 (25 points)
..................................................................................................................
While I'm predicting soccer matches...here is my take on the upcoming UEFA Champions League matchups:
Barcelona v. Arsenal- This draw will produce some of the most fluid and beautiful soccer of the year. Either way, Barca is the best club in the world and will outlast Wegner's young and promising club. (Barcelona, 4-2 agg)
CSKA Moscow v. Inter Milan- Jose Mourinho has Inter playing extremely well and there may not be a MF in better form at the moment than Dutch international, Wesley Sneijder. Too much Italian quality here for the Russians. (Inter Milan, 3-2 agg)
Lyon v. Bordeaux- This all-French quarterfinal has two in-form clubs pitted against each other. These two clubs are also fighting with a slew of other clubs for the Ligue Un championship during this time. I have watched both of these clubs and Lyon impressed me the most with their timely finishing. It will be close though. (Lyon, 4-3 agg)
Manchester United v. Bayern Munich- What a tremendous draw this is for a quarterfinal. Rooney v. Ribery. English football supporters v. Bundasliga Supporters. I feel that ManU will win its fourth straight EPL title this year, however Bayern Munich has been in world class form. They haven't lost a league match since September! I'm going for the upset here. (Bayern Munich 5-4 agg)
3.15.2010
Too bad for Beckham
Yesterday in Italian Serie A action, AC Milan closed within one point of table toppers and inter-city rivals, Inter. However, that story was ridiculously overshadowed by another, less fortunate story.
David Beckham will miss World Cup 2010.
During the last three years, Beckham has been on a whirlwind personal mission to be selected by English national club manager, Fabio Capello. The Italian manager had declared on numerous occasions that Beckham would not be considered if he only play on his MLS club, the L.A. Galaxy. These statements led Beckham to pursue a loaned return to European soccer with AC Milan. He has virtually been playing year-round for the last three years (when healthy), which has certainly taken a tremendous toll on his mid-thirties body. He also has sacrificed time away from his family to live and work in Milan the last two MLS "offseasons". Ultimately, Beckham had been doing very well for himself in both Serie A as well as leading the Galaxy to the MLS Cup final last season. All the hard work and tireless effort had been paying off as he has been included in the last handful of English international fixtures by Capello. Unfortunately though, all that hassle and hard work has ultimately been for naught.
I have certainly been critical of Beckham in the past. Initially, I felt slighted as an American soccer supporter when he pursued his loan deal to Milan last year. Was he too good for American soccer? However, after educating myself more on the game, I can certainly understand the level of competition discrepancies between the two leagues. I also have realized (speculatively of course) and come to greatly respect where his soccer heart's allegiance lies...with his home country.
English soccer may get a bad rap at sometimes for being arrogant about the game that they apparently invented. However, I cannot help but feel bad for a guy that wanted (more than anything) to simply just be on the England roster for this year's World Cup spectacle. This injury may not only mark the end to his international career, but it could possibly force him to retire from the beautiful game all together.
David Beckham will miss World Cup 2010.
During the last three years, Beckham has been on a whirlwind personal mission to be selected by English national club manager, Fabio Capello. The Italian manager had declared on numerous occasions that Beckham would not be considered if he only play on his MLS club, the L.A. Galaxy. These statements led Beckham to pursue a loaned return to European soccer with AC Milan. He has virtually been playing year-round for the last three years (when healthy), which has certainly taken a tremendous toll on his mid-thirties body. He also has sacrificed time away from his family to live and work in Milan the last two MLS "offseasons". Ultimately, Beckham had been doing very well for himself in both Serie A as well as leading the Galaxy to the MLS Cup final last season. All the hard work and tireless effort had been paying off as he has been included in the last handful of English international fixtures by Capello. Unfortunately though, all that hassle and hard work has ultimately been for naught.
I have certainly been critical of Beckham in the past. Initially, I felt slighted as an American soccer supporter when he pursued his loan deal to Milan last year. Was he too good for American soccer? However, after educating myself more on the game, I can certainly understand the level of competition discrepancies between the two leagues. I also have realized (speculatively of course) and come to greatly respect where his soccer heart's allegiance lies...with his home country.
English soccer may get a bad rap at sometimes for being arrogant about the game that they apparently invented. However, I cannot help but feel bad for a guy that wanted (more than anything) to simply just be on the England roster for this year's World Cup spectacle. This injury may not only mark the end to his international career, but it could possibly force him to retire from the beautiful game all together.
3.13.2010
Preseason soccer in the USA
As a Sounders fan, I was very disappointed with their Thursday night preseason result against arch-rival Portland. However, the inept offensive display by my beloved Rave Green and Blue was somewhat offset by a few other EXTREMELY encourage statistics/facts.
Total attendance for Thursday night's friendly: 18,606 (average regular season MLS attendance= 16k)
Number of traveling Portland supporters: 400+
General weather throughout the match: Cold and rainy
Considering that these facts are tied to a MLS preseason match is simply unprecedented in this country. These numbers would be encouraging for any other MLS regular season match or even some regular season MLB games! However, Seattle showed once again why it is truly earned it the moniker: Soccer City, USA.
I cannot help but wonder how this town will react if the players union does indeed decide to strike...but something tells me that the supporters chant, "Sounders til I die..." probably will ring just as true either way.
Total attendance for Thursday night's friendly: 18,606 (average regular season MLS attendance= 16k)
Number of traveling Portland supporters: 400+
General weather throughout the match: Cold and rainy
Considering that these facts are tied to a MLS preseason match is simply unprecedented in this country. These numbers would be encouraging for any other MLS regular season match or even some regular season MLB games! However, Seattle showed once again why it is truly earned it the moniker: Soccer City, USA.
I cannot help but wonder how this town will react if the players union does indeed decide to strike...but something tells me that the supporters chant, "Sounders til I die..." probably will ring just as true either way.
3.11.2010
"Real" waste of money...for now.
Why do the “little” always revel in the failures of “bigger and powerful”?
According to memory and my (typical) shockingly accurate calculations, nine out of ten casual sports fans will typically root for the underdog during the Super Bowl. The common reason is to see the big, bad favorites fail and to see the team that less people expect to win…WIN.
This same principle applies to all of the “big” sports franchises in the world as well: Yankees, Red Sox, Lakers, etc. These teams are ones that you either love or hate. Most people really could care less who these teams are playing- they just want the "other" team to win. It is a true rarity to find people who simply feel “eh” about any of those teams. The reason these clubs are vilified are the same reason everyone is fascinated by epic celebrity falls from grace (please see Woods, Tiger; Lohan, Lindsey or Spears, Britney) - MONEY. They have literally tons of it. Most of us do not. Either way, we normal, little folks always seem to be fascinated by these failures, sins or…ahem…indiscretions.
This brings me to Spanish “super club”, Real Madrid. During last summer’s international transfer window, newly appointed Real president, Florentino Perez, spent $340 million to upgrade a roster that had not been living up to the traditional standards expected from Real supporters. Thus four of the world’s best players, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Xabi Alonso and Karim Benzema, were purchased to become the new “Los Galácticos” and lead Real to European glory. Well, yesterday they failed..at least for this year.
French power, Lyon, eliminated Real Madrid in Real’s backyard 2-1 (on aggregate) to advance in the UEFA Champions League. Even though Lyon has won seven consecutive French Ligue 1 trophies, it is still an upset of epic proportions in world soccer. This upset is equally being welcomed by and has fascinated the vast majority of soccer fans across the world. The reason, of course, is the same reason the world simply cannot follow the Tiger Woods saga enough. The “big and powerful” have fallen.
The old adage, “money doesn’t buy happiness”, can definitely be applied to sports. Sports fans see it year in and year out. However, for every 2003 Florida Marlins team, there are ten big money winners- especially in sports without salary caps. Soccer is no different. This obviously is supported by recent history. When you throw enough money at something, championships will be won. The fact that the Yankees and Lakers are the incumbent champions in their respective sports proves that. Other examples of celebrity recovery support this as well (i.e. Britney, Kobe and sooner rather than later- Tiger).
So even though free-spending Real Madrid has been denied European glory this year, enjoy the “little win” now. History dictates that they will spend more and eventually, buy their European trophy soon enough.
According to memory and my (typical) shockingly accurate calculations, nine out of ten casual sports fans will typically root for the underdog during the Super Bowl. The common reason is to see the big, bad favorites fail and to see the team that less people expect to win…WIN.
This same principle applies to all of the “big” sports franchises in the world as well: Yankees, Red Sox, Lakers, etc. These teams are ones that you either love or hate. Most people really could care less who these teams are playing- they just want the "other" team to win. It is a true rarity to find people who simply feel “eh” about any of those teams. The reason these clubs are vilified are the same reason everyone is fascinated by epic celebrity falls from grace (please see Woods, Tiger; Lohan, Lindsey or Spears, Britney) - MONEY. They have literally tons of it. Most of us do not. Either way, we normal, little folks always seem to be fascinated by these failures, sins or…ahem…indiscretions.
This brings me to Spanish “super club”, Real Madrid. During last summer’s international transfer window, newly appointed Real president, Florentino Perez, spent $340 million to upgrade a roster that had not been living up to the traditional standards expected from Real supporters. Thus four of the world’s best players, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Xabi Alonso and Karim Benzema, were purchased to become the new “Los Galácticos” and lead Real to European glory. Well, yesterday they failed..at least for this year.
French power, Lyon, eliminated Real Madrid in Real’s backyard 2-1 (on aggregate) to advance in the UEFA Champions League. Even though Lyon has won seven consecutive French Ligue 1 trophies, it is still an upset of epic proportions in world soccer. This upset is equally being welcomed by and has fascinated the vast majority of soccer fans across the world. The reason, of course, is the same reason the world simply cannot follow the Tiger Woods saga enough. The “big and powerful” have fallen.
The old adage, “money doesn’t buy happiness”, can definitely be applied to sports. Sports fans see it year in and year out. However, for every 2003 Florida Marlins team, there are ten big money winners- especially in sports without salary caps. Soccer is no different. This obviously is supported by recent history. When you throw enough money at something, championships will be won. The fact that the Yankees and Lakers are the incumbent champions in their respective sports proves that. Other examples of celebrity recovery support this as well (i.e. Britney, Kobe and sooner rather than later- Tiger).
So even though free-spending Real Madrid has been denied European glory this year, enjoy the “little win” now. History dictates that they will spend more and eventually, buy their European trophy soon enough.
2.20.2010
Weekend lesson.
Typically, my weekends consist of multiple activities that keep my lady and I busy throughout. However, this weekend is a rarity in the sense that we only have one social event lined up (a work party) and pretty much NOTHING else. Thus far it's been epic in its own right:
Yesterday
4:00 p.m.- Left work early.
4:20 p.m.- Took scenic Steliacoom route home from work.
5:30 p.m.- Sat on porch.
5:40 p.m.- Opened Rogue Irish Style Lager and poured into glass.
5:45 p.m.- Lit firebowl.
5:50 p.m.- Lit firebowl again.
6:00 p.m.- Finished beer.
6:02 p.m.- Lit firebowl for real this time.
6:05 p.m.- Opened delcious barleywine and poured into glass.
6:15 p.m.- My lady got home.
6:25 p.m.- Finished delicious barleywine.
7:00 p.m.- Sat down for corned beef + veggies dinner.
Somewhere around 8 p.m.- Started watching "Zombieland"
Approximately 9:30 p.m.- Finished "Zombieland" (lots of laughing in between)
10:00 p.m.- Went to bed.
10:05 p.m.- Started "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back"
11:00 p.m.- Fell asleep early.
Saturday morning thus far
7:30 a.m.- Woke up.
7:45 a.m.- Played Wii.
8:30 a.m.- Turned on Chelsea v. Wolves and made breakfast.
9:00 a.m.- My lady awoke and we started watching Olympic curling together.
10:15 a.m.- Heading to Saturday morning yoga.
This list may seem drab to most, but believe it or not it's very nature was inspired by a principle rule that the lead character in none other than, "Zombieland" lives by during the movie. Jesse Eisenberg (previously of "Adventureland" fame) plays "Columbus" in this off center flick and truly contributes the soul of the film as he narrates the viewer through it. He has 32 rules that he lives by in order to live in Z-land. Some of them can certainly be transferred into our land of the living, most notably #32, Enjoy the little things.
You see most of us don't do that nearly as much as we should. Thus, during this rare weekend that contains more of less to do than most...that's my central goal. Take it easy.
- DTRT
Yesterday
4:00 p.m.- Left work early.
4:20 p.m.- Took scenic Steliacoom route home from work.
5:30 p.m.- Sat on porch.
5:40 p.m.- Opened Rogue Irish Style Lager and poured into glass.
5:45 p.m.- Lit firebowl.
5:50 p.m.- Lit firebowl again.
6:00 p.m.- Finished beer.
6:02 p.m.- Lit firebowl for real this time.
6:05 p.m.- Opened delcious barleywine and poured into glass.
6:15 p.m.- My lady got home.
6:25 p.m.- Finished delicious barleywine.
7:00 p.m.- Sat down for corned beef + veggies dinner.
Somewhere around 8 p.m.- Started watching "Zombieland"
Approximately 9:30 p.m.- Finished "Zombieland" (lots of laughing in between)
10:00 p.m.- Went to bed.
10:05 p.m.- Started "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back"
11:00 p.m.- Fell asleep early.
Saturday morning thus far
7:30 a.m.- Woke up.
7:45 a.m.- Played Wii.
8:30 a.m.- Turned on Chelsea v. Wolves and made breakfast.
9:00 a.m.- My lady awoke and we started watching Olympic curling together.
10:15 a.m.- Heading to Saturday morning yoga.
This list may seem drab to most, but believe it or not it's very nature was inspired by a principle rule that the lead character in none other than, "Zombieland" lives by during the movie. Jesse Eisenberg (previously of "Adventureland" fame) plays "Columbus" in this off center flick and truly contributes the soul of the film as he narrates the viewer through it. He has 32 rules that he lives by in order to live in Z-land. Some of them can certainly be transferred into our land of the living, most notably #32, Enjoy the little things.
You see most of us don't do that nearly as much as we should. Thus, during this rare weekend that contains more of less to do than most...that's my central goal. Take it easy.
- DTRT
2.11.2010
Amerikafest delayed...but fear not!
This weekend I am being afforded the opportunity to reunite with some old buddies in an event we have dubbed “Amerikafest” (it’s reunion of former Army officers during President’s Day weekend). It was supposed to start this afternoon with my buddy from Philadelphia flying into town. However, due to the east coast’s SNOWMAGEDDON, his flight was cancelled and we have been delayed about 24 hours.
So, what is a guy to do? Well ladies and gentlemen, I am taking this lemon and turning it into some sweet, spiked lemonade. Here is my list of things that are going to more than make up for this unforeseen circumstance:
- I get to go out to dinner with my beautiful girlfriend tonight.
- I woke up in an unusually good mood.
- The Puma Hard Chorus.
- I only have to work a few hours today.
- Thanks to a recently announced friendly, I get to see the Sounders play two weeks earlier than previously thought- against Portland nonetheless!
- Taking solace in the fact that I am not a star Olympic athlete that due to a recent injury may have my dream of winning gold completely crushed.
- Oh, and I get to go out to on a dinner date tonight with my beautiful girlfriend tonight.
It’s going to be a great weekend. Happy Amerikafest everyone!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One other quick note: Did anyone else see Everton beat EPL table toppers, Chelsea yesterday? Well, I didn't either, but I read about it. I guess the fact that the USMNT's two best players, Tim Howard and Landon Donovan shined during the win adds even more intrigue to the USA-England clash in each team's World Cup opener on June 12.
So, what is a guy to do? Well ladies and gentlemen, I am taking this lemon and turning it into some sweet, spiked lemonade. Here is my list of things that are going to more than make up for this unforeseen circumstance:
- I get to go out to dinner with my beautiful girlfriend tonight.
- I woke up in an unusually good mood.
- The Puma Hard Chorus.
- I only have to work a few hours today.
- Thanks to a recently announced friendly, I get to see the Sounders play two weeks earlier than previously thought- against Portland nonetheless!
- Taking solace in the fact that I am not a star Olympic athlete that due to a recent injury may have my dream of winning gold completely crushed.
- Oh, and I get to go out to on a dinner date tonight with my beautiful girlfriend tonight.
It’s going to be a great weekend. Happy Amerikafest everyone!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One other quick note: Did anyone else see Everton beat EPL table toppers, Chelsea yesterday? Well, I didn't either, but I read about it. I guess the fact that the USMNT's two best players, Tim Howard and Landon Donovan shined during the win adds even more intrigue to the USA-England clash in each team's World Cup opener on June 12.
2.05.2010
England captain 'sacked', the Merseyside derby and Super Bowl XLIV
Gordon Brown, the United Kingdome's Prime Minister, is on television right now. No, he is not speaking about the waning global recession or reducing carbon emissions. He is giving his take on the recent news that England's soccer captain has been stripped of his armband due to transgressions that would even put Tiger Woods to shame. Chelsea defender, John Terry, has been the center of controversy since earlier this week when an injunction was lifted in English court revealing personal transgressions in his recent past. Due to these transgressions (which include massive infidelity, family drug solicitation, taunting of US citizens about 9/11 and more), Terry was skipped of his captaincy just 125 days before England enters the 2010 World Cup finals.
England manager, Fabio Capello, had been faced with a difficult decision in the light of this controversy. Terry is a tremendously accomplished player and has been a stellar captain for his country on the pitch. However, when you consider the role of captain and what it means to a club, especially in the World Cup, Capello needed to make this move. Among the Terry revelations was a bit of news stating that Terry had been involved in an affair with his former teammate, Wayne Bridge's, wife. Bridge is a well thought of English national as well and if Terry were to continue as captain it would have surely caused locker room unrest. Capello made a swift and firm decision to sack Terry (who refused to give up the role voluntarily earlier in the week). It also is not a case of what is necessarily popular in England, but certainly what was the right and classy thing to do.
Tomorrow Liverpool and Everton will clash in the 213th Merseyside derby. It would be safe to say that a typical casual soccer fan in the U.S. would not usually care too much about this clash. However, Americans actually have been playing a huge role for both teams recently. Liverpool is owned by a set of American millionaires, Tom Hicks and George Gillette. They are in dire financial straits and have recently been given an ultimatum of sorts from their banks to come up with nearly $140 million in the next six months or be forced to sell the team. Couple this with Liverpool's disappointing campaign up to this point (5th in the standings and early exits from all other major knockout competitions) and you have a VERY unhappy supporter base. To put just how passionate Scouse Liverpoolians are about their football club in American terms- think about the reaction in Boston if the Red Sox were out of the playoff picture late in the season and had enough debt that it may force them to trade away many of their best players. Not good, huh?
Everton supporters think quite the opposite about us Yanks though. They are riding an 8 match unbeaten streak which has been aided by superb form of a couple of U.S. national team stars, Landon Donavon and Tim Howard. Donavon joined the team on loan last month and has showed great form in his Premier League debut. Furthermore, Howard has continued his stellar play in goal as one of the best keepers in the world. All in all, it should be a heated derby, but certainly unique in terms of how Americans are playing a role in it all.
Finally, on Sunday the Indianapolis Colts will meet the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLIV. The Colts are a slight favorite in the betting books, but I wanted to offer a more decisive take on the matchup. I feel Colin Cowherd summed this game up best. He stated on his morning radio show earlier this week that he felt 90% of the country would really like to see the Saints win this game. It would be an upset and a tremendous feel-good story in the wake of the city that is still recovering from Hurricane Katrina. However, he also felt that 90% of the country knows in their hearts that Peyton Manning and the Colts will win this game. I completely agree with Colin and can only see the Saints winning if the Colts are forced to play a sloppy game while turning the ball over numerous times. And how often does Peyton Manning play a sloppy game? Until next time, DTRT...
England manager, Fabio Capello, had been faced with a difficult decision in the light of this controversy. Terry is a tremendously accomplished player and has been a stellar captain for his country on the pitch. However, when you consider the role of captain and what it means to a club, especially in the World Cup, Capello needed to make this move. Among the Terry revelations was a bit of news stating that Terry had been involved in an affair with his former teammate, Wayne Bridge's, wife. Bridge is a well thought of English national as well and if Terry were to continue as captain it would have surely caused locker room unrest. Capello made a swift and firm decision to sack Terry (who refused to give up the role voluntarily earlier in the week). It also is not a case of what is necessarily popular in England, but certainly what was the right and classy thing to do.
Tomorrow Liverpool and Everton will clash in the 213th Merseyside derby. It would be safe to say that a typical casual soccer fan in the U.S. would not usually care too much about this clash. However, Americans actually have been playing a huge role for both teams recently. Liverpool is owned by a set of American millionaires, Tom Hicks and George Gillette. They are in dire financial straits and have recently been given an ultimatum of sorts from their banks to come up with nearly $140 million in the next six months or be forced to sell the team. Couple this with Liverpool's disappointing campaign up to this point (5th in the standings and early exits from all other major knockout competitions) and you have a VERY unhappy supporter base. To put just how passionate Scouse Liverpoolians are about their football club in American terms- think about the reaction in Boston if the Red Sox were out of the playoff picture late in the season and had enough debt that it may force them to trade away many of their best players. Not good, huh?
Everton supporters think quite the opposite about us Yanks though. They are riding an 8 match unbeaten streak which has been aided by superb form of a couple of U.S. national team stars, Landon Donavon and Tim Howard. Donavon joined the team on loan last month and has showed great form in his Premier League debut. Furthermore, Howard has continued his stellar play in goal as one of the best keepers in the world. All in all, it should be a heated derby, but certainly unique in terms of how Americans are playing a role in it all.
Finally, on Sunday the Indianapolis Colts will meet the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLIV. The Colts are a slight favorite in the betting books, but I wanted to offer a more decisive take on the matchup. I feel Colin Cowherd summed this game up best. He stated on his morning radio show earlier this week that he felt 90% of the country would really like to see the Saints win this game. It would be an upset and a tremendous feel-good story in the wake of the city that is still recovering from Hurricane Katrina. However, he also felt that 90% of the country knows in their hearts that Peyton Manning and the Colts will win this game. I completely agree with Colin and can only see the Saints winning if the Colts are forced to play a sloppy game while turning the ball over numerous times. And how often does Peyton Manning play a sloppy game? Until next time, DTRT...
2.04.2010
Doppelganger Week?
Has anyone ever heard of or used whisky rocks? You should and, if you like whisky, you should.
So the past couple weeks, many of you Facebook users may have noticed status messages referring to "doppelganger week". Apparently, everyone on facepage were posting pictures of celebrities that they resembled. Shortly thereafter, many of my friends and family were posting pictures that ranged from Alan from The Hangover to Jesus Christ himself.
Not being one wanting to feel left out, I started pondering, "What celebrity is my doppelganger?" I was seriously having a hard time with the question. In the past, I have been likened to Clark Kent (vague comic reference- not to any particular actor) and Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead), but I never really necessarily agreed with either of those assessments. The Clark Kent reference was back before my laser eye surgery and Simon Pegg has reddish hair- something that I don't believe I have.
I was stuck. What does one do when they're stuck in this day and age? I went to Google. I searched "celebrity look alike generator". The website that I selected (for soon to be obvious reasons) will remain nameless. It asked me to upload a "good picture that focuses on the face". So I uploaded the one that is on my blog profile and clicked enter. The "face recognition tool" then TOOK OVER. It showed this impressive animated image of a mannequin head being scanned by some kind of X-ray.
Within seconds, it was ready! I could hardly contain myself. I was finally about to find out who my doppelganger was and soon I would be able to join the fun on facepage! Then...this picture showed up:
Really!??!?! I look like the mother from "Brothers and Sisters"? C'MON! Needless to say, I didn't post my doppelganger picture. And please do not get me wrong, I have nothing against Ms. Fields. I am sure she is a lovely person. I just do not see the resemblance.
So the past couple weeks, many of you Facebook users may have noticed status messages referring to "doppelganger week". Apparently, everyone on facepage were posting pictures of celebrities that they resembled. Shortly thereafter, many of my friends and family were posting pictures that ranged from Alan from The Hangover to Jesus Christ himself.
Not being one wanting to feel left out, I started pondering, "What celebrity is my doppelganger?" I was seriously having a hard time with the question. In the past, I have been likened to Clark Kent (vague comic reference- not to any particular actor) and Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead), but I never really necessarily agreed with either of those assessments. The Clark Kent reference was back before my laser eye surgery and Simon Pegg has reddish hair- something that I don't believe I have.
I was stuck. What does one do when they're stuck in this day and age? I went to Google. I searched "celebrity look alike generator". The website that I selected (for soon to be obvious reasons) will remain nameless. It asked me to upload a "good picture that focuses on the face". So I uploaded the one that is on my blog profile and clicked enter. The "face recognition tool" then TOOK OVER. It showed this impressive animated image of a mannequin head being scanned by some kind of X-ray.
Within seconds, it was ready! I could hardly contain myself. I was finally about to find out who my doppelganger was and soon I would be able to join the fun on facepage! Then...this picture showed up:
Its Sally Fields everybody!
Really!??!?! I look like the mother from "Brothers and Sisters"? C'MON! Needless to say, I didn't post my doppelganger picture. And please do not get me wrong, I have nothing against Ms. Fields. I am sure she is a lovely person. I just do not see the resemblance.
Seattle Sounders FC 2010 Season Preview: Part I
I’m working nightshift this and next week at the warehouse so I have been afforded the unique opportunity to sleep in and spend the late mornings and early afternoons at home. This allowed me the opportunity to be looking through my Twitter page that is mostly populated with tweets from soccer bloggers, actors from the show “Community” and my beautiful girlfriend at around 11:00 a.m. the other day. At that time, the newest tweet was from the MLS Insider Blog and it stated that the 2010 MLS schedule was to be released the following day. You see, I am a proud 2010 Sounders FC season ticket holder and have been waiting to see when the Sounders would be playing who for a good while now.
So needless to say, when the schedule was released the next day I was glued to it. I was analyzing when our tough match ups would be, how often they would be broadcast on ESPN2 when away from home and what home games I may not be able to attend. My thoughts are now collected.
Anyone that follows soccer in the US will tell you that Seattle undoubtedly claimed the title of “Soccer City, USA” last year based on their passionate following of the Sounders. The team embarked on an unprecedented inaugural season which was highlighted by a U.S. Open Cup trophy and a MLS playoff appearance. The club was also a mere 2 points from claiming the MLS Supporters Shield which is awarded to the team with the best overall regular season record. Needless to say, this sophomore campaign is littered with high expectations. Despite the fact, that we still about 50 days from the season actually kicking off (and rosters are not even CLOSE to being finalized), here are my early thoughts on the 2010 campaign…
March/April (The Kick Off)
FIXTURES:
3/25- Philadelphia Union
4/03- New York Red Bulls
4/10- @ Real Salt Lake
4/17- Kansas City Wizards
4/22- @ FC Dallas
4/25- @ Toronto FC
This season marks the first time in MLS history where the schedule is “balanced”- meaning that every team will play a home and home fixture with each of the other 15 teams in the league. I have broken down the campaign into five sizeable portions. Last year, the Sounders burst out of the gate like Seabiscuit at 3-0-0. The first five weeks of the season provides an ample opportunity to get off on the right foot in the race for the Supporters Shield and the playoffs.
The MLS “First Kick” match-up pitting them against the expansion Union is going to be more challenging than most people expect. This will be the first match in the Union’s franchise history and nationally televised on ESPN2 which only adds to the pressure. However, the atmosphere inside of Qwest Field will be absolutely electric (among the best sporting experiences in the country) and I see the Sounders riding that excitement to the first win of the season. Prediction: Win.
Next up will be Red Bull New York. They were the Sounders’ opponents in their opening 3-0 victory last year on ESPN2. RBNY have completely overhauled their roster after a extremely disappointing 2009 season. They hired former Swedish national, Hans Backe, as their new manager, but still have ace forward, Juan Pablo Angel. Angel should be better this year due to being fit again, but the Sounders should continue to defend their home pitch to move to 2-0-0. Prediction: Win.
The first road trip of the season takes the Sounders to Salt Lake City to take on the defending MLS Cup champion, Real Salt Lake. The Sounders were basically outplayed by RSL last year in their visit to Sandy. Their back line could not seem to contain the speedy Robbie Findley and ended up breaking on a counter attack which left Kasey Keller helpless. This is RSL’s home opener and all signs point to the Sounders being happy with a draw out of this fixture. However, I can certainly see SSFC dropping all three against the defending champs here as well. Prediction: Loss.
The next three fixtures are to be played over just nine days and with the team starting at home, then flying to Dallas and finally ending up in a packed BMO Field to face Toronto. The KC fixture is a rematch of the odd match that found our beloved keeper, Kasey Keller, red carded for an out of the box handball last year at Qwest. As long as that occurrence does not happen again, SSFC should get the positive result. Prediction: Win.
The trip down to Dallas last year was a match that saw the Sounders create numerous chances, but little to actually show for it ending in one of many frustrating draws. However, the Hoops are a young team viewed to be on the rise led by their not so young 2009 Golden Boot winner, Jeff Cunningham. Prediction: Draw.
Until 2011, when Portland and Vancouver enter MLS, there really is only one other group of supporters that truly rival Sounders’ fans in terms of overall passion. Those supporters happen to hail from Toronto. Dwayne De Rosario leads a club with new manager and former Tacoma Star, Preki. Preki managed a gritty Chivas USA last season and managed a stellar 2-0-1 record against the Sounders last year. Despite the Rave Green getting all three points at BMO last year, I see a more level result here in 2010. Prediction: Draw.
OVERALL predicted start: 3-1-2 (11 points)
So needless to say, when the schedule was released the next day I was glued to it. I was analyzing when our tough match ups would be, how often they would be broadcast on ESPN2 when away from home and what home games I may not be able to attend. My thoughts are now collected.
Anyone that follows soccer in the US will tell you that Seattle undoubtedly claimed the title of “Soccer City, USA” last year based on their passionate following of the Sounders. The team embarked on an unprecedented inaugural season which was highlighted by a U.S. Open Cup trophy and a MLS playoff appearance. The club was also a mere 2 points from claiming the MLS Supporters Shield which is awarded to the team with the best overall regular season record. Needless to say, this sophomore campaign is littered with high expectations. Despite the fact, that we still about 50 days from the season actually kicking off (and rosters are not even CLOSE to being finalized), here are my early thoughts on the 2010 campaign…
March/April (The Kick Off)
FIXTURES:
3/25- Philadelphia Union
4/03- New York Red Bulls
4/10- @ Real Salt Lake
4/17- Kansas City Wizards
4/22- @ FC Dallas
4/25- @ Toronto FC
This season marks the first time in MLS history where the schedule is “balanced”- meaning that every team will play a home and home fixture with each of the other 15 teams in the league. I have broken down the campaign into five sizeable portions. Last year, the Sounders burst out of the gate like Seabiscuit at 3-0-0. The first five weeks of the season provides an ample opportunity to get off on the right foot in the race for the Supporters Shield and the playoffs.
The MLS “First Kick” match-up pitting them against the expansion Union is going to be more challenging than most people expect. This will be the first match in the Union’s franchise history and nationally televised on ESPN2 which only adds to the pressure. However, the atmosphere inside of Qwest Field will be absolutely electric (among the best sporting experiences in the country) and I see the Sounders riding that excitement to the first win of the season. Prediction: Win.
Next up will be Red Bull New York. They were the Sounders’ opponents in their opening 3-0 victory last year on ESPN2. RBNY have completely overhauled their roster after a extremely disappointing 2009 season. They hired former Swedish national, Hans Backe, as their new manager, but still have ace forward, Juan Pablo Angel. Angel should be better this year due to being fit again, but the Sounders should continue to defend their home pitch to move to 2-0-0. Prediction: Win.
The first road trip of the season takes the Sounders to Salt Lake City to take on the defending MLS Cup champion, Real Salt Lake. The Sounders were basically outplayed by RSL last year in their visit to Sandy. Their back line could not seem to contain the speedy Robbie Findley and ended up breaking on a counter attack which left Kasey Keller helpless. This is RSL’s home opener and all signs point to the Sounders being happy with a draw out of this fixture. However, I can certainly see SSFC dropping all three against the defending champs here as well. Prediction: Loss.
The next three fixtures are to be played over just nine days and with the team starting at home, then flying to Dallas and finally ending up in a packed BMO Field to face Toronto. The KC fixture is a rematch of the odd match that found our beloved keeper, Kasey Keller, red carded for an out of the box handball last year at Qwest. As long as that occurrence does not happen again, SSFC should get the positive result. Prediction: Win.
The trip down to Dallas last year was a match that saw the Sounders create numerous chances, but little to actually show for it ending in one of many frustrating draws. However, the Hoops are a young team viewed to be on the rise led by their not so young 2009 Golden Boot winner, Jeff Cunningham. Prediction: Draw.
Until 2011, when Portland and Vancouver enter MLS, there really is only one other group of supporters that truly rival Sounders’ fans in terms of overall passion. Those supporters happen to hail from Toronto. Dwayne De Rosario leads a club with new manager and former Tacoma Star, Preki. Preki managed a gritty Chivas USA last season and managed a stellar 2-0-1 record against the Sounders last year. Despite the Rave Green getting all three points at BMO last year, I see a more level result here in 2010. Prediction: Draw.
OVERALL predicted start: 3-1-2 (11 points)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)