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
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)
12.31.2009
BCS v. playoffs v. my opinion
I listen to a lot of sports radio. I listen to it almost every morning on the way to the gym and work as well as on the way back from both of those places. So during the last couple of weeks I have been subjected to the popular dish that sports radio personalities love to serve up- the NCAA football postseason format. There is a huge split between proponents of the current BCS, bowl and computer ranking-based system and the establishment of some sort of playoff system. However, this afternoon's debate really got me fired up.
The hosts argued amongst each other and with callers about two distinct points- 1) how meaningful or meaningless the bowl games were because they have nothing to do with winning a championship and 2) that a playoff system needs to be put in place to determine a "true" champion. The commentators kept going on and on about how playoffs are used to determine champions "everywhere in the world of sport"...yadda, yadda, yadda. This was the statement that really grinded my gears.
After much thought, I have made peace with the BCS system. Sure, it has its flaws. Boise State, TCU and Cincinnati all won all of their games during the regular season and will not have the chance to play for the national championship. They were determined by the BCS rankings to not have an impressive enough resume to be deemed worthy of such renowned consideration. However, they all are playing in other BCS bowl games and the schools are raking in millions of dollars in revenue to improve their programs. I sincerely doubt that any of the three schools' athletic directors are unhappy about that fact. Furthermore, the two teams playing in the national championship, Texas and Alabama hail from two of the most challenging conferences in college football. Say what you will about the other undefeated teams, but strength of schedule should mean everything when it comes to determining who gets what in the world of college football- as it should.
As I continued further down the rabbit hole while internally debating the systems flaws and merits, something dawned on me. When Brock Huard noted that "everywhere in the world of sport" championships are determined via the playoff system, I said to myself, “Brock did not check his facts.”
The most popular sport in the world is soccer. It’s commonly known as the “world’s game”. The vast majority of its leagues have ZERO playoff system that determines its league championship. Leagues base their championship off a single table format which puts extreme relevance and importance on each and every game during the actual season. If you lose and the frontrunner wins, your team is that much further behind in the standings. Sucks to be you. Unlike the NBA, NFL, MLB or NHL where teams can barely make it to the playoffs, get hot at the right time and claim the right to be champions of their league despite probably not being the best overall team during that campaign.
When I first started following European soccer, I wasn't sure if I liked this single table idea. However, I noticed something as the season continued on...I was hanging on each week's results with tremendous interest. Why? Because every single match MATTERED.
As sports fans in America, we grow up knowing the playoffs are when games "matter the most". This works great for the casual sports fan. Essentially, no one really has to pay any attention to any sport's regular season. Because all a team has to do is get to the playoffs and be hot at the right time to raise silverware or claim the league championship. Take the New England Patriots of two years ago. They were undoubtedly the best team in the NFL that season. After the regular season, they stood unblemished at 16-0. They even won their first two playoff games to push their record to 18-0. However, the upstart NY Giants pulled out a last minute win in the Super Bowl to deny the Patriots from winning the overall NFL Championship. Did the Giants deserve to win Super Bowl XLII? Of course, they were the better team during that game. But did the Giants deserve to be the CHAMPIONS of the NFL that season? That is tremendously debatable.
Now take the example of last season's English Premier League champions, Manchester United. My beloved Liverpool only lost TWO matches during their 38 match campaign- only to finish second to United by four points. The Red Devils lost twice as many matches. So how could this be true? Liverpool didn't seize the opportunity to win enough games during the season while instead settling for a draw. That result certainly stings for Liverpool supporters, like myself, but Manchester United won when it mattered the most for the championship- during their actual season. This works so well for actual sports fans and if commonplace here, would draw more passion from the casual fan as well.
Naturally, European soccer league structure is far different than NCAA FBS football. However, the BCS is the closest thing that we have to a single table format in America. It pits all the teams against each other and whoever wins when it matters the most (considering the strength of opponent) is crowned champion. Sounds good to me.
Sure, there are plenty of holes that you can poke in my argument. Most leagues here have far too many teams to make a single table format relevant. Or the Patriots were the best team in the NFL that season they would have found a way to win during the Super Bowl. (Believe me, I despise defending the Patriots. Despite the fact that I cannot stand them, doesn't keep me from giving them their just respect for that season.) However, the phrase "any team can win on any given Sunday" bothers me a great deal. It definitely backs up the legitimacy of the Giants championship, George Mason's 2006 Final Four run and the Cardinals Super Bowl run last year. But doesn't it also mean that even the worst team could beat the best team to win any game? Those stories make great headlines. However, it doesn't necessarily mean that the right team won the game or in some cases....the championship.
The hosts argued amongst each other and with callers about two distinct points- 1) how meaningful or meaningless the bowl games were because they have nothing to do with winning a championship and 2) that a playoff system needs to be put in place to determine a "true" champion. The commentators kept going on and on about how playoffs are used to determine champions "everywhere in the world of sport"...yadda, yadda, yadda. This was the statement that really grinded my gears.
After much thought, I have made peace with the BCS system. Sure, it has its flaws. Boise State, TCU and Cincinnati all won all of their games during the regular season and will not have the chance to play for the national championship. They were determined by the BCS rankings to not have an impressive enough resume to be deemed worthy of such renowned consideration. However, they all are playing in other BCS bowl games and the schools are raking in millions of dollars in revenue to improve their programs. I sincerely doubt that any of the three schools' athletic directors are unhappy about that fact. Furthermore, the two teams playing in the national championship, Texas and Alabama hail from two of the most challenging conferences in college football. Say what you will about the other undefeated teams, but strength of schedule should mean everything when it comes to determining who gets what in the world of college football- as it should.
As I continued further down the rabbit hole while internally debating the systems flaws and merits, something dawned on me. When Brock Huard noted that "everywhere in the world of sport" championships are determined via the playoff system, I said to myself, “Brock did not check his facts.”
The most popular sport in the world is soccer. It’s commonly known as the “world’s game”. The vast majority of its leagues have ZERO playoff system that determines its league championship. Leagues base their championship off a single table format which puts extreme relevance and importance on each and every game during the actual season. If you lose and the frontrunner wins, your team is that much further behind in the standings. Sucks to be you. Unlike the NBA, NFL, MLB or NHL where teams can barely make it to the playoffs, get hot at the right time and claim the right to be champions of their league despite probably not being the best overall team during that campaign.
When I first started following European soccer, I wasn't sure if I liked this single table idea. However, I noticed something as the season continued on...I was hanging on each week's results with tremendous interest. Why? Because every single match MATTERED.
As sports fans in America, we grow up knowing the playoffs are when games "matter the most". This works great for the casual sports fan. Essentially, no one really has to pay any attention to any sport's regular season. Because all a team has to do is get to the playoffs and be hot at the right time to raise silverware or claim the league championship. Take the New England Patriots of two years ago. They were undoubtedly the best team in the NFL that season. After the regular season, they stood unblemished at 16-0. They even won their first two playoff games to push their record to 18-0. However, the upstart NY Giants pulled out a last minute win in the Super Bowl to deny the Patriots from winning the overall NFL Championship. Did the Giants deserve to win Super Bowl XLII? Of course, they were the better team during that game. But did the Giants deserve to be the CHAMPIONS of the NFL that season? That is tremendously debatable.
Now take the example of last season's English Premier League champions, Manchester United. My beloved Liverpool only lost TWO matches during their 38 match campaign- only to finish second to United by four points. The Red Devils lost twice as many matches. So how could this be true? Liverpool didn't seize the opportunity to win enough games during the season while instead settling for a draw. That result certainly stings for Liverpool supporters, like myself, but Manchester United won when it mattered the most for the championship- during their actual season. This works so well for actual sports fans and if commonplace here, would draw more passion from the casual fan as well.
Naturally, European soccer league structure is far different than NCAA FBS football. However, the BCS is the closest thing that we have to a single table format in America. It pits all the teams against each other and whoever wins when it matters the most (considering the strength of opponent) is crowned champion. Sounds good to me.
Sure, there are plenty of holes that you can poke in my argument. Most leagues here have far too many teams to make a single table format relevant. Or the Patriots were the best team in the NFL that season they would have found a way to win during the Super Bowl. (Believe me, I despise defending the Patriots. Despite the fact that I cannot stand them, doesn't keep me from giving them their just respect for that season.) However, the phrase "any team can win on any given Sunday" bothers me a great deal. It definitely backs up the legitimacy of the Giants championship, George Mason's 2006 Final Four run and the Cardinals Super Bowl run last year. But doesn't it also mean that even the worst team could beat the best team to win any game? Those stories make great headlines. However, it doesn't necessarily mean that the right team won the game or in some cases....the championship.
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