The more I read about Jesus Padilla and the more I found out about him and his family, the less I believed his tale.
I've never talked to him. I've seen him play in person, at SuperLiga a year ago. And I saw him with Chivas USA two years ago, though I can't remember anything but him walking by me after a training session. But I read enough about him that I just didn't buy whatever he was selling.
First, his mom is from California. Jesus is third of six but the oldest (Jesus is the only boy) was born here in California. Next is his sister Carmen, who plays for the Mexican national team. I ran across Carmen's bio on her alma mater's Web site, the University of the Pacific in Stockton. The bio says she was born in San Jose, though Jesus said in an interview (Andrea linked to it below) that she was born in Mexico. Then, of course, Jesus was allegedly born in Mexico, while the three younger sisters were all born in California. The first birth and last three births were not contested by anyone.
I have some cousins who are born here and have had a child here, and I'm telling you there is no way in hell that they are moving down to small-town Mexico to have a child or two, then come back here and have three more. It's not going to happen. It's just not. Maybe it happens a lot, maybe not at all. I don't know. But what I do know is my family wouldn't do that, so it seemed fishy to me.
Why would his mom have moved down to Mexico with an infant to give birth to two more kids? So one of them could play for Chivas?
So we started investigating it.
And we found out the truth, and our suspicions were justified after all.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
More Mexican than El Tri
I interviewed Claudio Suarez about Chivas Guadalajara's policy of fielding only Mexican-born players. After he talked about how many fans have an emotional connection to the club because it has only Mexican players, I joked, "So Chivas is more Mexican than the Mexican national team?"
He smiled. "Well, in some ways, it's easier to be a part of the national team, because a player can be naturalized and join, but Chivas doesn't accept nationalized players."
He smiled. "Well, in some ways, it's easier to be a part of the national team, because a player can be naturalized and join, but Chivas doesn't accept nationalized players."
What they don't know won't hurt us
As has been pointed out in comments here, and if you read carefully, alluded to in Luis' article, it's very likely that Chivas officials knew all along that Jesus Padilla was born in the U.S.
The story of him being born in Mexico, and his family later moving to the States could have been concocted by the club itself to appease the Guadalajara fans who are very rigid about the requirement that players must be born in Mexico. The club could have asked Jesus just to produce a Mexican birth certificate (very easy to get, even if you're from somewhere else) to add a little more validation to the story.
One reason Luis and I were skeptical of Padilla's story was inconsistencies in articles like this one.
That article specifically mentions that the Chivas website says Padilla was born in San Miguel El Alto, Jalisco, but Padilla says it was actually San José de los Reinosos, Jalisco. Why wouldn't his own club get that right?
It's not as if professional sports clubs don't fudge the rules to gain advantages all the time. The LA Dodgers signed Adrian Beltre when he was only 15, which was against league rules. In this case, though, Chivas has done nothing illegal.
Yet if they knew about Padilla's birthplace and tried to deceive Chivas fans about it, that doesn't make the organization look good. Either they're too chicken to tell the truth, or they think nothing of undercutting the traditions of the club by devious means.
Some people will say, "no big deal", but I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss possible deception by the club. After all, if it didn't matter, why not just come out and say that Padilla was U.S. born?
The story of him being born in Mexico, and his family later moving to the States could have been concocted by the club itself to appease the Guadalajara fans who are very rigid about the requirement that players must be born in Mexico. The club could have asked Jesus just to produce a Mexican birth certificate (very easy to get, even if you're from somewhere else) to add a little more validation to the story.
One reason Luis and I were skeptical of Padilla's story was inconsistencies in articles like this one.
That article specifically mentions that the Chivas website says Padilla was born in San Miguel El Alto, Jalisco, but Padilla says it was actually San José de los Reinosos, Jalisco. Why wouldn't his own club get that right?
It's not as if professional sports clubs don't fudge the rules to gain advantages all the time. The LA Dodgers signed Adrian Beltre when he was only 15, which was against league rules. In this case, though, Chivas has done nothing illegal.
Yet if they knew about Padilla's birthplace and tried to deceive Chivas fans about it, that doesn't make the organization look good. Either they're too chicken to tell the truth, or they think nothing of undercutting the traditions of the club by devious means.
Some people will say, "no big deal", but I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss possible deception by the club. After all, if it didn't matter, why not just come out and say that Padilla was U.S. born?
Picky, picky
A lot of people already knew that Jesus Padilla had Mexican and U.S. citizenship. Yet it's not enough for Club Deportivo Guadalajara to field only Mexican citizens. The standard for the club has long been that all their players had to be Mexican-born. Heritage and naturalization isn't enough. Yet at least two other players have played for the Jalisco club who were not born in the country.
Gerardo Mascareño was one. He played in ten games for the club in 1998 and scored a goal. However, club directors were apparently under tremendous pressure from fan groups not to play Mascareño because of his U.S. birth. He was traded to Pachuca.
An earlier player lasted years with Chivas, though rumors circulated for a long time that he was born in the U.S. Eduardo Fernández de la Garza managed to stay on for four seasons with Guadalajara, though birth records in Texas state he was born there.
Though many people consider Gabriel Caballero to be the first naturalized player for the Mexican national team, Mascareño appeared for El Tri years before. He played the second half of an international friendly versus Ecuador on Oct. 23, 1996, back when Bora Milutinovic ran the squad.
Gerardo Mascareño was one. He played in ten games for the club in 1998 and scored a goal. However, club directors were apparently under tremendous pressure from fan groups not to play Mascareño because of his U.S. birth. He was traded to Pachuca.
An earlier player lasted years with Chivas, though rumors circulated for a long time that he was born in the U.S. Eduardo Fernández de la Garza managed to stay on for four seasons with Guadalajara, though birth records in Texas state he was born there.
Though many people consider Gabriel Caballero to be the first naturalized player for the Mexican national team, Mascareño appeared for El Tri years before. He played the second half of an international friendly versus Ecuador on Oct. 23, 1996, back when Bora Milutinovic ran the squad.
Made in America
My latest effort for SI.com was a bit of a callaborative effort between myself and Andrea. It should make some noise both here and in Mexico.
Jesus Padilla of Chivas de Guadalajara, we found out, was born in San Jose, Calif. How did we find that out? We got a copy of his birth certificate, which shows he was born here in the U.S.
Chivas thus has an American on their roster.
Padilla has played only for Tapatio (their second-division club) this year but he played for Chivas in Copa Libertadores on Tuesday. He's played in 11 games for Chivas and has played in SuperLiga, Sudamericana and now Libertadores as well.
We'll be discussing the story and its implications here in more detail I'm sure but for now I just wanted to pass the link and story along.
Jesus Padilla of Chivas de Guadalajara, we found out, was born in San Jose, Calif. How did we find that out? We got a copy of his birth certificate, which shows he was born here in the U.S.
Chivas thus has an American on their roster.
Padilla has played only for Tapatio (their second-division club) this year but he played for Chivas in Copa Libertadores on Tuesday. He's played in 11 games for Chivas and has played in SuperLiga, Sudamericana and now Libertadores as well.
We'll be discussing the story and its implications here in more detail I'm sure but for now I just wanted to pass the link and story along.
K-Mart update
The venerable Billy Witz of the LA Daily News checks in on Kyle Martino.
The writing is on the wall for Martino. I think he could still be of use in this league but his best role is in the center of the field, and that's where the Galaxy has other options.
The writing is on the wall for Martino. I think he could still be of use in this league but his best role is in the center of the field, and that's where the Galaxy has other options.
Preseason unit rankings: midfielders
Part three of four of my preseason unit rankings. The midfield units were difficult to sort through. From about 4-9 or so, the teams were very evenly matched and you can't go wrong interchanging the units there. But the dropoff is severe towards the bottom.
1. Houston. Dwayne De Rosario leads quite a deep squad, which Dynamo will need for its various tournaments it will play this year. Ricardo Clark needs to stop kicking fallen players, though. Brian Mullan is solid on the right while Stuart Holden is very promising. May have to deal away a mid or two to get some help up front, though.
2. Colorado. Without Christian Gomez, the team had a pretty deep midfield. With the former MVP, they've got one of the best overall in the league. Gomez gives Colorado the centerpiece the Rapids have lacked for years. Pablo Mastroeni is still imposing presence while Terry Cooke has a great soccer mind.
3. Chivas USA. No Gomez or De Rosario but plenty of depth. Sacha Kljestan could take next step toward stardom this year if he can maintain his MVP-esque play from July to October of last year. Raphael Wicky brings wealth of international experience.
4. DC United. Marcelo Gallardo replaces his countryman but is it an upgrade? It seems so, but how quickly can Gallardo adapt to MLS? The supporting cast is strong with Clyde Simms, Fred and Ben Olsen providing support on both sides of the ball.
5. Los Angeles. David Beckham's credentials speak for themselves and he is a giant asset no matter where he plays. There are questions about the depth in the middle of the park but the makings are there for a stable and above-average midfield.
6. New England. Shalrie Joseph one of most talented players in MLS while Steve Ralston ages like fine wine. The addition of Mauricio Castro will help out the left side of the Revs' midfield.
7. Chicago. Cuauhtemoc Blanco is listed as a forward but he's essentially a midfielder. His ability is unquestionable. Beyond that, though, the dropoff is severe. Justin Mapp is a fine player but his health hampered him all of 2007.
8. FC Dallas. Juan Toja is a solid player with great upside. Arturo Alvarez had a lot of success a year ago but needs to prove that was no fluke. Pablo Ricchetti, Dax McCarty and Marcelo Saragosa offer depth. Andre Rocha is an intriguing addition.
9. Kansas City. Nothing flashy but the Wizards have decent depth and solid players in the midfield. Carlos Marinelli, though, is a very talented player.
10. Colubmus. Guillermo Barros Schelotto is quality but there is not much to get excited about elsewhere. Eddie Gaven is a decent player but rather inconsistent. Not a lot of scoring options here.
11. Real Salt Lake. Javier Morales is promising and will be good to have from the start of the season. Kyle Beckerman is very solid while Nathan Sturgis has good upside, but RSL has seemingly a lot of role players in the midfield.
12. New York. The potential for ugliness is there. Injury-prone Claudio Reyna is getting slower by the minute. Dane Richards is an asset but there aren't too many of those around in New York.
13. Toronto. Carl Robinson and Maurice Edu are a solid duo but who else will step up?
14. San Jose. The depth here is terrible. San Jose focused on defense and goalkeeping and building from the back up, which given recent expansion teams' failures in that area was smart. But the 'Quakes have a dearth of talent in the midfield.
1. Houston. Dwayne De Rosario leads quite a deep squad, which Dynamo will need for its various tournaments it will play this year. Ricardo Clark needs to stop kicking fallen players, though. Brian Mullan is solid on the right while Stuart Holden is very promising. May have to deal away a mid or two to get some help up front, though.
2. Colorado. Without Christian Gomez, the team had a pretty deep midfield. With the former MVP, they've got one of the best overall in the league. Gomez gives Colorado the centerpiece the Rapids have lacked for years. Pablo Mastroeni is still imposing presence while Terry Cooke has a great soccer mind.
3. Chivas USA. No Gomez or De Rosario but plenty of depth. Sacha Kljestan could take next step toward stardom this year if he can maintain his MVP-esque play from July to October of last year. Raphael Wicky brings wealth of international experience.
4. DC United. Marcelo Gallardo replaces his countryman but is it an upgrade? It seems so, but how quickly can Gallardo adapt to MLS? The supporting cast is strong with Clyde Simms, Fred and Ben Olsen providing support on both sides of the ball.
5. Los Angeles. David Beckham's credentials speak for themselves and he is a giant asset no matter where he plays. There are questions about the depth in the middle of the park but the makings are there for a stable and above-average midfield.
6. New England. Shalrie Joseph one of most talented players in MLS while Steve Ralston ages like fine wine. The addition of Mauricio Castro will help out the left side of the Revs' midfield.
7. Chicago. Cuauhtemoc Blanco is listed as a forward but he's essentially a midfielder. His ability is unquestionable. Beyond that, though, the dropoff is severe. Justin Mapp is a fine player but his health hampered him all of 2007.
8. FC Dallas. Juan Toja is a solid player with great upside. Arturo Alvarez had a lot of success a year ago but needs to prove that was no fluke. Pablo Ricchetti, Dax McCarty and Marcelo Saragosa offer depth. Andre Rocha is an intriguing addition.
9. Kansas City. Nothing flashy but the Wizards have decent depth and solid players in the midfield. Carlos Marinelli, though, is a very talented player.
10. Colubmus. Guillermo Barros Schelotto is quality but there is not much to get excited about elsewhere. Eddie Gaven is a decent player but rather inconsistent. Not a lot of scoring options here.
11. Real Salt Lake. Javier Morales is promising and will be good to have from the start of the season. Kyle Beckerman is very solid while Nathan Sturgis has good upside, but RSL has seemingly a lot of role players in the midfield.
12. New York. The potential for ugliness is there. Injury-prone Claudio Reyna is getting slower by the minute. Dane Richards is an asset but there aren't too many of those around in New York.
13. Toronto. Carl Robinson and Maurice Edu are a solid duo but who else will step up?
14. San Jose. The depth here is terrible. San Jose focused on defense and goalkeeping and building from the back up, which given recent expansion teams' failures in that area was smart. But the 'Quakes have a dearth of talent in the midfield.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Yank abroad?
So, does Edgar Castillo count as a Yank abroad? He was born in New Mexico, one of the 50 United States. And he plays abroad, albeit a stone's throw from the U.S. border.
Regardless, an American played for the Mexican national team on Tuesday. Edgar Castillo played all 90 minutes in Mexico's 2-0 win over Chile. The game was the Under-23 team's preparation for the upcoming Olympic qualifying tournament, which will be played here at HDC.
Here's the full lineup for Mexico:
1.- Jonathan Orozco, 2.- Omar Esparza (19.- Luis Robles 45’), 3.- Edgar Castillo, 4.- Francisco Gamboa, 5.- Julio Cesar Domínguez, 6.- Patricio Araujo, 7.- Pablo Barrera (22.- Juan Carlos Silva 82’), 8.- Jorge Hernández (13.- Sergio Ávila 45’), 9.- Santiago Fernández (17.- Luis Ángel Landín 45’), 10.- Cesar Villaluz (16.- Omar Arellano 70’), 11.- Edgar Andrade (20.- Enrique Esqueda 70’).
Even without Guillermo Ochoa, it's a pretty good lineup. And of course Carlos Vela and Giovani Dos Santos weren't around. Cesar Villaluz scored a goal. That guy is one to watch for sure. I mean, Vela and Gio will be good but don't count out Villaluz. He's nails.
Anyway, getting back to Edgar, I believe that's three games he's now played in for El Tri. And he's a left-sided player.
Yank abroad or not, he's property of El Tri.
ADD: Here's Chile's lineup. Mexico won 2-0.
1.- Gregory Morales, 2.- Marco Biskupovic, 3.- Bastián Arce, 4.- Bruno Romo, 5.- Rafael Caroca, 6.- Charles Aránguiz (14.- Alexis Gutiérrez 89’), 7.- Braulio Baeza (15.- Jorge Gálvez 75’), 8.- Esteban Sáez, 9.- Mauricio Gómez, 10.- Joan Muñoz (16.- Robert Méndez 86’), 11.- Boris Sagredo.
Regardless, an American played for the Mexican national team on Tuesday. Edgar Castillo played all 90 minutes in Mexico's 2-0 win over Chile. The game was the Under-23 team's preparation for the upcoming Olympic qualifying tournament, which will be played here at HDC.
Here's the full lineup for Mexico:
1.- Jonathan Orozco, 2.- Omar Esparza (19.- Luis Robles 45’), 3.- Edgar Castillo, 4.- Francisco Gamboa, 5.- Julio Cesar Domínguez, 6.- Patricio Araujo, 7.- Pablo Barrera (22.- Juan Carlos Silva 82’), 8.- Jorge Hernández (13.- Sergio Ávila 45’), 9.- Santiago Fernández (17.- Luis Ángel Landín 45’), 10.- Cesar Villaluz (16.- Omar Arellano 70’), 11.- Edgar Andrade (20.- Enrique Esqueda 70’).
Even without Guillermo Ochoa, it's a pretty good lineup. And of course Carlos Vela and Giovani Dos Santos weren't around. Cesar Villaluz scored a goal. That guy is one to watch for sure. I mean, Vela and Gio will be good but don't count out Villaluz. He's nails.
Anyway, getting back to Edgar, I believe that's three games he's now played in for El Tri. And he's a left-sided player.
Yank abroad or not, he's property of El Tri.
ADD: Here's Chile's lineup. Mexico won 2-0.
1.- Gregory Morales, 2.- Marco Biskupovic, 3.- Bastián Arce, 4.- Bruno Romo, 5.- Rafael Caroca, 6.- Charles Aránguiz (14.- Alexis Gutiérrez 89’), 7.- Braulio Baeza (15.- Jorge Gálvez 75’), 8.- Esteban Sáez, 9.- Mauricio Gómez, 10.- Joan Muñoz (16.- Robert Méndez 86’), 11.- Boris Sagredo.
Checking in on camp
Didn't get to this last week but my SI.com editor Jonah Freedman wrote this column about his trip down to HDC a week ago. Jonah lives in Northern California, not something I envy too much. It's not that I've got a bias against Northern California necessarily, though as an LA Dodgers fan I have nothing but contempt for those chumps in orange and black. But the wind and the chilly weather would be enough for me to stay away from NoCal.
Anyway, one interesting note that Jonah mentions is the possibility of Benny Feilhaber joining Chivas USA. Jonah says in the story that there is an outside possibility but one nevertheless. Feilhaber to Chivas USA would be nothing short of a coup and would really catapult the club to frontrunner status in the West. Still, I think that in order to get him Chivas would have to clear someone from their senior roster, which is pretty stacked as it is.
Jonah was at the Red Bulls-Chivas game on Tuesday and got lucky when he was one of six print reporters to talk to David Beckham on Thursday. I haven't seen any less than 10 or so but there weren't too many scribes out there for Becks.
Anyway, one interesting note that Jonah mentions is the possibility of Benny Feilhaber joining Chivas USA. Jonah says in the story that there is an outside possibility but one nevertheless. Feilhaber to Chivas USA would be nothing short of a coup and would really catapult the club to frontrunner status in the West. Still, I think that in order to get him Chivas would have to clear someone from their senior roster, which is pretty stacked as it is.
Jonah was at the Red Bulls-Chivas game on Tuesday and got lucky when he was one of six print reporters to talk to David Beckham on Thursday. I haven't seen any less than 10 or so but there weren't too many scribes out there for Becks.
Missing Martino
I just got off the phone with the Galaxy media folk (Yay, Galaxy media guys for calling me back!). The travel roster for the squad was finally released. I say finally, because the team has been there for a while (Boo) already.
Anyway, midfielder Kyle Martino wasn't on the list, which struck me as a bit strange. So I called to check if he was injured. He is not.
Why then, was he left on the continent?
The Galaxy's director of Soccer Paul Bravo did have this formal statement prepared, which the press officer read over the phone: "We felt it was appropriate to limit the number of players traveling to Hawaii. We will further limit the number to Asia. Kyle remains a member of the Galaxy."
Meanwhile, Carlos Ruiz is on the squad, but his injury status means he will not play on Wednesday. He will be assessed on Friday and may play Saturday.
As for Martino's absence and the rather terse statement on his behalf, make of it what you will.
Anyway, midfielder Kyle Martino wasn't on the list, which struck me as a bit strange. So I called to check if he was injured. He is not.
Why then, was he left on the continent?
The Galaxy's director of Soccer Paul Bravo did have this formal statement prepared, which the press officer read over the phone: "We felt it was appropriate to limit the number of players traveling to Hawaii. We will further limit the number to Asia. Kyle remains a member of the Galaxy."
Meanwhile, Carlos Ruiz is on the squad, but his injury status means he will not play on Wednesday. He will be assessed on Friday and may play Saturday.
As for Martino's absence and the rather terse statement on his behalf, make of it what you will.
On the spot
I know, I know, I ramble, but for those who are curious about the life of a soccer reporter - aside from what you already learn from me on this blog all the time - check it out.
No deal
Francisco Mendoza nearly became full property of Chivas Guadalajara in the offseason. Instead, he is back with Chivas USA, but in a different capacity than in years past. Mendoza doesn't have a deal yet. His contract ran out at the end of last year and he hasn't signed a new deal yet.
He told me that his agent was working on a deal and that he expected everything to be taken care of by the start of the season.
Hopefully everything works out for him. He made roughly $90,000 a year ago, or thereabouts, and in my opinion deserves something north of $100,000.
He told me that his agent was working on a deal and that he expected everything to be taken care of by the start of the season.
Hopefully everything works out for him. He made roughly $90,000 a year ago, or thereabouts, and in my opinion deserves something north of $100,000.
The Galaxy's 'keeper
On the day I posted my goalkeeper rankings, Grahame Jones of the LA Times has a feature on Steve Cronin, who came in at number 14 on my list.
Several Galaxy fans have complained in the comments section about Cronin and his rating. Maybe he'll prove that he deserves to be higher on the list come next season. But he's played a total of six regular-season games in four years. How can I not be skeptical of him?
Some have also pointed out that Matt Reis once backed up Kevin Hartman and he's done well for himself since leaving. Yes, this is true. But the one advantage Reis had over Cronin was that Reis worked with Zak Abdel, the ex-Galaxy, ex-Chivas USA, current U.S. national team goalkeepers coach. Abdel coached Hartman and Brad Guzan during the seasons each won the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award. Cronin has not had the luxury of working under Abdel, save for his spell in US camp earlier this year.
Anyway, just some food for thought.
Several Galaxy fans have complained in the comments section about Cronin and his rating. Maybe he'll prove that he deserves to be higher on the list come next season. But he's played a total of six regular-season games in four years. How can I not be skeptical of him?
Some have also pointed out that Matt Reis once backed up Kevin Hartman and he's done well for himself since leaving. Yes, this is true. But the one advantage Reis had over Cronin was that Reis worked with Zak Abdel, the ex-Galaxy, ex-Chivas USA, current U.S. national team goalkeepers coach. Abdel coached Hartman and Brad Guzan during the seasons each won the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award. Cronin has not had the luxury of working under Abdel, save for his spell in US camp earlier this year.
Anyway, just some food for thought.
Preseason unit rankings: goalkeepers
Here is the second of my four preseason unit rankings. I didn't put the goalkeepers in with the defense. I felt they needed a look of their own.
1. Chivas USA. Brad Guzan is hands down the best goalkeeper in MLS. The only worrisome spot is his backup. There is no other goalkeeper on the roster right now. If Guzan bolts during the summer transfer window, Chivas could be crippled. Still, Guzan is good for several stellar saves a match.
2. New England. Matt Reis is reliable and dependable, so much so that you kind of take him for granted. While it’s not necessarily a plus for him, Reis probably won’t be called into U.S. national team duty too much which means more games for him this season.
3. Houston. Pat Onstad is the oldest goalkeeper in MLS, but that’s not exactly slowing him down. Onstad made a strong case for 2007 Goalkeeper of the Year but he had to be content with winning his third MLS Cup.
4. San Jose. Joe Cannon and Preston Burpo are a solid 1-2 punch, but Cannon is the man barring injury. Cannon led San Jose to its first MLS Cup title back in 2001 and hasn’t slowed down much since.
5. Colorado. Bouna Coundoul can make the spectacular save look easy but can also make the easy save into an adventure. He’s developed quickly since he was thrust into the fire in 2006. Bouna Time is now on 24/7, and the Rapids will benefit.
6. D.C. United. Zach Wells is seemingly the heir apparent to Troy Perkins while Jose Carvallo is a promising number two. Both should play a lot this year as D.C. will compete in five tournaments.
7. Columbus. Will Hesmer seemingly will stop the revolving door the Crew have had at goalkeeper for several years. Hesmer has a lot of upside and will be put to test with the shaky defense in front of him.
8. Kansas City. Kevin Hartman is talented but he’s not getting any younger. Some complained about Hartman’s weight last year, as he put on some pounds from his days with the Galaxy. A heavier Hartman had some trouble with his mobility that a lighter Hartman does not.
9. New York. No more aging Dutch ‘keeper around, so this job is Jon Conway’s to lose. Conway has never been a full-time starter, though. Can he handle the load?
10. FC Dallas. Dario Sala and Ray Burse can each have their moments, but can also provide headaches. Burse has more upside but Sala is a bit more settled in the goal.
11. Real Salt Lake. Nick Rimando has won an MLS Cup but isn’t a championship-caliber goalkeeper any more. Rimando has his moments but is tested too much playing behind RSL’s poor defense.
12. Chicago. Matt Pickens will be missed. Jon Busch is a health concern and is unlikely to make it through an entire season healthy. Not much behind Busch either.
13. Toronto. Greg Sutton has played a lot in the United Soccer League. Can he handle the rigors of playing in Major League Soccer?
14. Los Angeles. Steve Cronin has been waiting in the wings for years, but there is a reason why Cronin never got a chance. He’s a decent backup and can play well in a pinch but is not number one material.
1. Chivas USA. Brad Guzan is hands down the best goalkeeper in MLS. The only worrisome spot is his backup. There is no other goalkeeper on the roster right now. If Guzan bolts during the summer transfer window, Chivas could be crippled. Still, Guzan is good for several stellar saves a match.
2. New England. Matt Reis is reliable and dependable, so much so that you kind of take him for granted. While it’s not necessarily a plus for him, Reis probably won’t be called into U.S. national team duty too much which means more games for him this season.
3. Houston. Pat Onstad is the oldest goalkeeper in MLS, but that’s not exactly slowing him down. Onstad made a strong case for 2007 Goalkeeper of the Year but he had to be content with winning his third MLS Cup.
4. San Jose. Joe Cannon and Preston Burpo are a solid 1-2 punch, but Cannon is the man barring injury. Cannon led San Jose to its first MLS Cup title back in 2001 and hasn’t slowed down much since.
5. Colorado. Bouna Coundoul can make the spectacular save look easy but can also make the easy save into an adventure. He’s developed quickly since he was thrust into the fire in 2006. Bouna Time is now on 24/7, and the Rapids will benefit.
6. D.C. United. Zach Wells is seemingly the heir apparent to Troy Perkins while Jose Carvallo is a promising number two. Both should play a lot this year as D.C. will compete in five tournaments.
7. Columbus. Will Hesmer seemingly will stop the revolving door the Crew have had at goalkeeper for several years. Hesmer has a lot of upside and will be put to test with the shaky defense in front of him.
8. Kansas City. Kevin Hartman is talented but he’s not getting any younger. Some complained about Hartman’s weight last year, as he put on some pounds from his days with the Galaxy. A heavier Hartman had some trouble with his mobility that a lighter Hartman does not.
9. New York. No more aging Dutch ‘keeper around, so this job is Jon Conway’s to lose. Conway has never been a full-time starter, though. Can he handle the load?
10. FC Dallas. Dario Sala and Ray Burse can each have their moments, but can also provide headaches. Burse has more upside but Sala is a bit more settled in the goal.
11. Real Salt Lake. Nick Rimando has won an MLS Cup but isn’t a championship-caliber goalkeeper any more. Rimando has his moments but is tested too much playing behind RSL’s poor defense.
12. Chicago. Matt Pickens will be missed. Jon Busch is a health concern and is unlikely to make it through an entire season healthy. Not much behind Busch either.
13. Toronto. Greg Sutton has played a lot in the United Soccer League. Can he handle the rigors of playing in Major League Soccer?
14. Los Angeles. Steve Cronin has been waiting in the wings for years, but there is a reason why Cronin never got a chance. He’s a decent backup and can play well in a pinch but is not number one material.
Pan Pacific push
Here's my PE column about the Galaxy and the Pan Pacific Championship. This picture was one you may see elsewhere on the web today, or may have seen already. It's David Beckham and Miss Honolulu Raeceen Woolford upon the Galaxy's arrival in Hawaii on Monday.
We've gotten quite a bit of press releases and the sort from tournament organizers Soccer United Marketing ever since the tournament was announced. I even got a press kit mailed to me on it back in December, something I wasn't expecting.
Yemen yell
Someone from Yemen stopped by our blog, so we've added that country to our greetings list.
Yemen actually used to be divided into two countries, North and South, but merged into one entity in 1990. That hasn't helped their soccer fortunes, though, as the Yemeni team has yet to make at impact at any international tournament.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Keeper swap
Zach Wells did well in the second half, despite the goal he allowed. On that play, though, there wasn't much he could have done. It was a counter that wound up as a 2-on-1 and the 1 wasn't in great position.
But Wells did make a nice diving save off a 25-yard rocket from a Chivas USA trialist. And he did well to cut down a few other chances inside the area.
Jose Carvallo, who played in the first half, really didn't do a whole lot. That was more due to Chivas' inability to generate offense. Ante Razov and Sacha Kljestan had some decent looks but dribbled themselves out of danger.
Chivas trailists beat DC
It wasn't pretty but Chivas USA beat DC United 1-0 on Monday afternoon. The goal was scored in the second half by Arnolfo Salazar.
Probably the most memorable thing from the game, at least for me, was Jesse Marsch's altercation with Luciano Emilio. Well, it wasn't much of an altercation really. Emilio tackled Marsch visciously from behind, a challenge that easily would have drawn a red card had the game been a regular-season match. Instead, it drew only a yellow card from the referee.
But it drew quite an agitated response from Marsch. After Emilio tackled Marsch, the Chivas USA midfielder stood up, pushed Emilio away and yelled, quite loudly "motherf***er!"
Emilio didn't really do much but stand there. Marsch immediately hobbled to the bench, where he promptly picked up a Gatorade bottle and threw it at Emilio. Marsch was some 20 yards from him and the bottle didn't come close to do enough damage, but the point was made.
Soon after that, Brad Guzan told the referee that that should have been a red card and the referee yelled back to him "Quiet."
A little later in the half, Emilio ran into the box after a loose ball but Guzan knocked him down and snatched the ball. I was half-expecting, though, for one of Chivas' field players to take a run at Emilio and maybe tackle him from behind to see how he likes it but nothing came of it. If this were a regular-season game, perhaps it would have been different. If it were the NHL, gloves would have most certainly dropped.
Anyway, Chivas USA ran out this lineup:
Brad Guzan; Jorge Flores, Claudio Suarez, Jim Curtain, Alex Zotinca; John Cunliffe, Jesse Marsch, Gerson Mayen, Sacha Kljestan; Atiba Harris, Ante Razov.
Only Flores played the whole game. He moved to left mid for the second half and did okay. There were a few times he could have shown a bit more creativity but overall he held his own out there.
DC United had the following lineups (they too made wholesale changes in the second half):
First half: Jose Carvallo, Marc Burch, Domenic Mediate, Bryan Namoff, Clyde Simms, Quavas Kirk, Ryan Cordeiro, Marcelo Gallardo, Luciano Emilio, Jerson Monteiro, Patrick Carroll.
Second half: Zach Wells, Devon McTavish, Gonzalo Martinez, Brandon Owens, Josh Gardner, Justin Moose, Grady Renfrow, Daniel Stratford, Fred, Jamil Walker, Jaime Moreno.
Chivas USA played all subs and trailists in the second half yet they outplayed DC United for large stretches of the half. Arnolfo Salazar scored the goal on a counter. Chukwudi Chijinju got the assist.
After the game, Marsch had his ankle taped and was his otherwise usual self and I even joked with him about throwing the Gatorade bottle. I told him he couldn't have made it as a baseball player with that sort of arm and accuracy.
Probably the most memorable thing from the game, at least for me, was Jesse Marsch's altercation with Luciano Emilio. Well, it wasn't much of an altercation really. Emilio tackled Marsch visciously from behind, a challenge that easily would have drawn a red card had the game been a regular-season match. Instead, it drew only a yellow card from the referee.
But it drew quite an agitated response from Marsch. After Emilio tackled Marsch, the Chivas USA midfielder stood up, pushed Emilio away and yelled, quite loudly "motherf***er!"
Emilio didn't really do much but stand there. Marsch immediately hobbled to the bench, where he promptly picked up a Gatorade bottle and threw it at Emilio. Marsch was some 20 yards from him and the bottle didn't come close to do enough damage, but the point was made.
Soon after that, Brad Guzan told the referee that that should have been a red card and the referee yelled back to him "Quiet."
A little later in the half, Emilio ran into the box after a loose ball but Guzan knocked him down and snatched the ball. I was half-expecting, though, for one of Chivas' field players to take a run at Emilio and maybe tackle him from behind to see how he likes it but nothing came of it. If this were a regular-season game, perhaps it would have been different. If it were the NHL, gloves would have most certainly dropped.
Anyway, Chivas USA ran out this lineup:
Brad Guzan; Jorge Flores, Claudio Suarez, Jim Curtain, Alex Zotinca; John Cunliffe, Jesse Marsch, Gerson Mayen, Sacha Kljestan; Atiba Harris, Ante Razov.
Only Flores played the whole game. He moved to left mid for the second half and did okay. There were a few times he could have shown a bit more creativity but overall he held his own out there.
DC United had the following lineups (they too made wholesale changes in the second half):
First half: Jose Carvallo, Marc Burch, Domenic Mediate, Bryan Namoff, Clyde Simms, Quavas Kirk, Ryan Cordeiro, Marcelo Gallardo, Luciano Emilio, Jerson Monteiro, Patrick Carroll.
Second half: Zach Wells, Devon McTavish, Gonzalo Martinez, Brandon Owens, Josh Gardner, Justin Moose, Grady Renfrow, Daniel Stratford, Fred, Jamil Walker, Jaime Moreno.
Chivas USA played all subs and trailists in the second half yet they outplayed DC United for large stretches of the half. Arnolfo Salazar scored the goal on a counter. Chukwudi Chijinju got the assist.
After the game, Marsch had his ankle taped and was his otherwise usual self and I even joked with him about throwing the Gatorade bottle. I told him he couldn't have made it as a baseball player with that sort of arm and accuracy.
Galaxy guess again
1) You can’t bet against them (the MLS Cup finalists), because they’re always there. I know Houston’s going to struggle offensively. They need to find some sort of forwards, somehow, but they’re always a good team and it's the same with New England. How much Pat hurts them, I don’t know, and Andy Dorman. We’ll find out. Change is bound to happen after a while, especially in this league. You can’t go on keeping guys who are that good forever.
2) People always look back to the golden age of the Galaxy and while I was a part of it, I’m almost tired of hearing about it, because I think the team can do better.
3) It’s the team that many players want to play for and it’s a place that many people want to live. There’s always going to be that certain amount of pressure, playing for the Galaxy, but we need to do something this season. We need to win something and get into the playoffs. Last season was disappointing.
4) With young rookies, you can always tell the ones who are going to make it by their demeanor off the field, in addition to what they can do on it. They show an ability to adapt in the team, but off the field, they also show that sort of – it’s not reverence, but respect, and wanting to learn from the veterans. In that sense, those are guys that are going to stick around for a while and succeed in this league.
5) For the guys who have been around for all the coaching changes – there’s not many - I think we’ve seen a wide variety of what’s out there. I think that those guys are able to adapt a lot better. With that said, it hasn’t helped our results and it hasn’t helped us make the playoffs. But I think we’re ready to accomplish something. We have the players and the staff to do that.
2) People always look back to the golden age of the Galaxy and while I was a part of it, I’m almost tired of hearing about it, because I think the team can do better.
3) It’s the team that many players want to play for and it’s a place that many people want to live. There’s always going to be that certain amount of pressure, playing for the Galaxy, but we need to do something this season. We need to win something and get into the playoffs. Last season was disappointing.
4) With young rookies, you can always tell the ones who are going to make it by their demeanor off the field, in addition to what they can do on it. They show an ability to adapt in the team, but off the field, they also show that sort of – it’s not reverence, but respect, and wanting to learn from the veterans. In that sense, those are guys that are going to stick around for a while and succeed in this league.
5) For the guys who have been around for all the coaching changes – there’s not many - I think we’ve seen a wide variety of what’s out there. I think that those guys are able to adapt a lot better. With that said, it hasn’t helped our results and it hasn’t helped us make the playoffs. But I think we’re ready to accomplish something. We have the players and the staff to do that.
Preseason unit rankings: defense
Over the next few days, I'm going to rank each MLS team's unit - goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards. Basically, I looked at the different elements each team has as of mid-February and ranked them accordingly.
I start with the defense (I didn't take into account goalkeepers as that will be a separate category). Feel free to let me know if you agree or disagree.
1. Houston. Strong, hard-working defense. If Bobby Boswell can recapture pre-2007 form, defense could be better than last year’s.
2. Chivas USA. Strong on the inside, speedy on the outside. Shavar Thomas and Claudio Suarez formed stellar pairing a year ago, but Suarez needs to continue avoiding the affects of old age to replicate 2007.
3. Chicago. CJ Brown and Gonzalo Segares provide continuity. Wilman Conde’s situation and possible exit, though, could hurt the defense while his possibly sour mood could provide a distraction. A shaky three, right now.
4. New England. Michael Parkhurst may be league’s best defender right now while Chris Albright adds some toughness. If Gabriel Badilla joins, he’d vault New England up the standings.
5. Colorado. Good collection of talent. Jose Burciaga joins and will solidify the left back spot. Facundo Erpen, Mike Petke and Ugo Ihemelu provide options at central defense.
6. DC United. A bit of instability with Boswell gone, but newcomers Gonzalo Martinez and Gonzalo Peralta (potentially) should compensate the loss.
7. Toronto. Marvell Wynne and Todd Dunivant are strong on the outside. Tyrone Marshall and Andrew Boyens could form strong pairing in middle. Definitely more to build around at start of this year than last.
8. San Jose. The makings of a strong defense. Ramiro Corrales might seem weak because of his performance on Feb. 6 but his experience along with Nick Garcia will help build a strong base for the ‘Quakes.
9. New York. Not much to work with here. Will Juan Carlos Osorio find a more stable lineup than Bruce Arena a year ago? Bulls are a work-in-progress at best.
10. Kansas City. Two reliable players are gone as the Wizards have a new look. Chance Myers must come through immediately, which is a lot of pressure for a rookie.
11. FC Dallas. Losses offset additions as Clarence Goodson and Chris Gbandi are gone. Newcomer Duilio Davino’s ability only one of many questions on Hoops’ backline.
12. Real Salt Lake. Nat Borchers and Ian Joy must hit the ground running for RSL’s defense to have a chance of success. Matias Mantilla will be around for a full season, which is one of the few plusses from this squad.
13. Columbus. Frankie Hejduk and Ezra Hendrickson are in their mid-30s going on 50. What will Chad Marshall offer this year? Tim Ward has seemingly been a decent prospect forever – will he finally deliver?
14. Los Angeles. The turnover with the defense has been swift, as the continuity here is nonexistent. Greg Vanney and Celestine Babayaro combine with Abel Xavier to form perhaps the league’s oldest defense, not something to be proud of.
I start with the defense (I didn't take into account goalkeepers as that will be a separate category). Feel free to let me know if you agree or disagree.
1. Houston. Strong, hard-working defense. If Bobby Boswell can recapture pre-2007 form, defense could be better than last year’s.
2. Chivas USA. Strong on the inside, speedy on the outside. Shavar Thomas and Claudio Suarez formed stellar pairing a year ago, but Suarez needs to continue avoiding the affects of old age to replicate 2007.
3. Chicago. CJ Brown and Gonzalo Segares provide continuity. Wilman Conde’s situation and possible exit, though, could hurt the defense while his possibly sour mood could provide a distraction. A shaky three, right now.
4. New England. Michael Parkhurst may be league’s best defender right now while Chris Albright adds some toughness. If Gabriel Badilla joins, he’d vault New England up the standings.
5. Colorado. Good collection of talent. Jose Burciaga joins and will solidify the left back spot. Facundo Erpen, Mike Petke and Ugo Ihemelu provide options at central defense.
6. DC United. A bit of instability with Boswell gone, but newcomers Gonzalo Martinez and Gonzalo Peralta (potentially) should compensate the loss.
7. Toronto. Marvell Wynne and Todd Dunivant are strong on the outside. Tyrone Marshall and Andrew Boyens could form strong pairing in middle. Definitely more to build around at start of this year than last.
8. San Jose. The makings of a strong defense. Ramiro Corrales might seem weak because of his performance on Feb. 6 but his experience along with Nick Garcia will help build a strong base for the ‘Quakes.
9. New York. Not much to work with here. Will Juan Carlos Osorio find a more stable lineup than Bruce Arena a year ago? Bulls are a work-in-progress at best.
10. Kansas City. Two reliable players are gone as the Wizards have a new look. Chance Myers must come through immediately, which is a lot of pressure for a rookie.
11. FC Dallas. Losses offset additions as Clarence Goodson and Chris Gbandi are gone. Newcomer Duilio Davino’s ability only one of many questions on Hoops’ backline.
12. Real Salt Lake. Nat Borchers and Ian Joy must hit the ground running for RSL’s defense to have a chance of success. Matias Mantilla will be around for a full season, which is one of the few plusses from this squad.
13. Columbus. Frankie Hejduk and Ezra Hendrickson are in their mid-30s going on 50. What will Chad Marshall offer this year? Tim Ward has seemingly been a decent prospect forever – will he finally deliver?
14. Los Angeles. The turnover with the defense has been swift, as the continuity here is nonexistent. Greg Vanney and Celestine Babayaro combine with Abel Xavier to form perhaps the league’s oldest defense, not something to be proud of.
SuperLiga groups
According to Mexican sports daily Ovaciones, Club America declined to participate in the 2008 SuperLiga and thus Pumas were added to the field.
The SuperLiga groups will be:
Group A
Chivas USA
New England
Atlante
Pumas
Group B
Houston
DC United
Chivas Guadalajara
Pachuca
America's disinterest is bad news for Chivas USA, as a Chivas USA-America match would be far easier to market than Chivas USA-Pumas.
The SuperLiga groups will be:
Group A
Chivas USA
New England
Atlante
Pumas
Group B
Houston
DC United
Chivas Guadalajara
Pachuca
America's disinterest is bad news for Chivas USA, as a Chivas USA-America match would be far easier to market than Chivas USA-Pumas.
Locals' view
The Honolulu Advertiser with a story on the Pan-Pacific Championship. One of the main questions surrounding this tournament is the focus here, but whether the tournament is successful is much more important for the locals. A successful tournament to them would mean large crowds and true interest from abroad, which would in turn mean an economic boost.
No word on ticket sales, though. If ticket sales are slow and the stadium is mostly empty, then this might not be worth the hassle for next year. But if crowds are large and the interest extends beyond just one particular Galaxy player, it will be a good thing for the local economy.
No word on ticket sales, though. If ticket sales are slow and the stadium is mostly empty, then this might not be worth the hassle for next year. But if crowds are large and the interest extends beyond just one particular Galaxy player, it will be a good thing for the local economy.
More Galaxy guess who
1) I definitely knew that I was ready last year, but at the same time, I knew that it was out of my hands. I tried to do the best job I could last year here to be ready for this year. Right now, through preseason, I feel every day I’m getting a little bit better and the team is coming together. We’ll definitely learn a lot before the season starts.
2) I hope I get to hang out with Chingy when we're in Hawaii. I want to see all his old spots and hopefully find some good restaurants he used to go to and hang out.
3) The last year and half, I guess for me, professionally and personally, have been extremely tough as far as what the team has gone through, so I haven't enjoyed myself as much as I had in years past, but hopefully we’ve turned the corner and hopefully, this ship is being steered in the right direction. I have fun when we’re winning, so obviously, the past year and half haven’t been the greatest pleasure for me, as I’m sure it wasn’t for the fans. The Galaxy means more to me than I can describe, so obviously, it affects me.
A foundation
I'm trying to write my weekly soccer column for the Press-Enterprise right now. I'm writing about the Pan Pacific Championship, but the focus there isn't on the games themselves but rather the tournament and what the Galaxy feels is important to get from said tournament.
Another part of the PPC that won't make my column is what we can expect to see from the Galaxy this year. So far, the Galaxy's preseason games have consisted of closed-door scrimmages. No fans, no media, nobody knows what happened except for the players and coaches themselves. So this in essence will be the first opportunity for all of us to see the 2008 Galaxy in action.
Now, the beginning of this season is a stark contrast to last year. In '07, it was all about making sure the team hit its stride when Becks arrived. Now, it's about preparing for the season just like other clubs. The main pieces are seemingly in place now and it's about trying to lay down some sort of foundation to hit the season running.
I'll be interested in the games mostly to see what to expect from the Galaxy this year. I guess my main points of interest will be seeing who comprises the backline, and where David Beckham lines up.
I never really thought last year's midfield worked, with Kyle Martino out left and Beckham in the middle (for the few games he played) alongside Peter Vagenas and whoever was healthy out right.
I'd like to see Chris Klein out right for all 30 games this year. Klein is best at that position and can offer more there than he can at the back, where played out of necessity a year ago. Klein on the right with Beckham and Kelly Gray in the middle isn't bad. I also don't see Martino as a true left midfielder, but is he a better option there than whoever else the Galaxy has?
But we won't know what Ruud Gullit's tendencies are until we see some actual games against actual teams. I guess we'll start to get some answers soon. So that's one positive from the PPC.
Another part of the PPC that won't make my column is what we can expect to see from the Galaxy this year. So far, the Galaxy's preseason games have consisted of closed-door scrimmages. No fans, no media, nobody knows what happened except for the players and coaches themselves. So this in essence will be the first opportunity for all of us to see the 2008 Galaxy in action.
Now, the beginning of this season is a stark contrast to last year. In '07, it was all about making sure the team hit its stride when Becks arrived. Now, it's about preparing for the season just like other clubs. The main pieces are seemingly in place now and it's about trying to lay down some sort of foundation to hit the season running.
I'll be interested in the games mostly to see what to expect from the Galaxy this year. I guess my main points of interest will be seeing who comprises the backline, and where David Beckham lines up.
I never really thought last year's midfield worked, with Kyle Martino out left and Beckham in the middle (for the few games he played) alongside Peter Vagenas and whoever was healthy out right.
I'd like to see Chris Klein out right for all 30 games this year. Klein is best at that position and can offer more there than he can at the back, where played out of necessity a year ago. Klein on the right with Beckham and Kelly Gray in the middle isn't bad. I also don't see Martino as a true left midfielder, but is he a better option there than whoever else the Galaxy has?
But we won't know what Ruud Gullit's tendencies are until we see some actual games against actual teams. I guess we'll start to get some answers soon. So that's one positive from the PPC.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Hey! Must be the money
A Galaxy teammate, speaking on Ty Harden's retirement:
If you really look at it, it’s where we are in the evolution of our league. The reality is that a smart young guy can take a look at things and say, "I can build my professional career right now, or I can continue playing soccer, not making as much as I would in the business world and have to start over when I’m 30, 35." I think that’s just the reality now. If you look at other sports, and you have these young guys who come out, they have the aspiration to sign that big contract. That allows some buffer time when you do retire to be able to figure things out. You have a lot more leeway and opportunity to do things. A young guy, a smart guy like Ty Harden, decided to choose a different path. For him, it was a personal decision and I think all the guys here respect the decision that he made.
Dem's fightin' words
Atlas beat America 1-0 in Guadalajara on Saturday, and the loss apparently affected America's Richard Nuñez quite a bit.
This what he had to say after the game:
Without a doubt, Atlas is a small club. They demonstrated as much in the second half when they fell back (to defend), and losing against a small club hurts a great deal. When a great club like America attacks, the rival retreats just like Atlas did.
This what he had to say after the game:
Without a doubt, Atlas is a small club. They demonstrated as much in the second half when they fell back (to defend), and losing against a small club hurts a great deal. When a great club like America attacks, the rival retreats just like Atlas did.
Dream on
I'm all over Sueno MLS. I've been covering it for MLSnet.com so I was out in Bell Gardens on Friday and Saturday. Here's the story from the first day.
Not sure if they've come across the next Jorge Flores yet, but some of the action I've seen hasn't been very good. It's funny though. I've talked to quite a few trialists and all of them, well all except for one, said that they expect to get called back. I think some of them will get their hearts broken soon.
The only one who didn't say that was probably the best player I've talked to so far, a guy who made it far last year and is back to try it again. Pretty humble guy actually. I'll post a link when that story runs.
Anyway, if you want a chance of fulfilling your Sueno, there are apparently still spots left open. Okay, so maybe you won't be on an MLS roster in the future but at least you could score a free t-shirt and a ticket to a game!
Not sure if they've come across the next Jorge Flores yet, but some of the action I've seen hasn't been very good. It's funny though. I've talked to quite a few trialists and all of them, well all except for one, said that they expect to get called back. I think some of them will get their hearts broken soon.
The only one who didn't say that was probably the best player I've talked to so far, a guy who made it far last year and is back to try it again. Pretty humble guy actually. I'll post a link when that story runs.
Anyway, if you want a chance of fulfilling your Sueno, there are apparently still spots left open. Okay, so maybe you won't be on an MLS roster in the future but at least you could score a free t-shirt and a ticket to a game!
Chivas gets destroyed
A lot of reserves played, but Japan's U-23s beat Chivas USA by 4-0 on Saturday. Haven't gotten the release on it yet so can't post full lineups but only a handful of starters played any substantial minutes.
We'll see who plays for the team on Monday against DC United, a match I will attend.
Good thing is for some of you planning to catch Chivas USA in Santa Clarita for the Feb. 23 friendly against Columbus, some of the walking wounded are hoping to play in that game, so you may see the return of Jonathan Bornstein and perhaps some of the other injured players (Panchito Mendoza, Alecko Eskandarain, Paulo Nagamura, etc.).
We'll see who plays for the team on Monday against DC United, a match I will attend.
Good thing is for some of you planning to catch Chivas USA in Santa Clarita for the Feb. 23 friendly against Columbus, some of the walking wounded are hoping to play in that game, so you may see the return of Jonathan Bornstein and perhaps some of the other injured players (Panchito Mendoza, Alecko Eskandarain, Paulo Nagamura, etc.).
Saturday, February 16, 2008
It's not that easy
A few people commented that if Ty Harden really wanted to play for Seattle, he could just request a trade instead of taking a year off. Apparently, that's what Wilman Conde did, but the Chicago Fire haven't let him go. There are probably all sorts of reasons. For example, what organization wants to strengthen a conference rival, especially when they barely made the playoffs last year? Suffice it to say, it's not as simple as "Ask and you shall receive".
By the way, I'm not saying it should be, either. It's true that many players are accomodated, but it almost always is when it doesn't inconvenience the trading team very much, and it rarely happens intraconference.
By the way, I'm not saying it should be, either. It's true that many players are accomodated, but it almost always is when it doesn't inconvenience the trading team very much, and it rarely happens intraconference.
The Goats gear up
A preseason look at Chivas USA.
As inevitably happens in articles, editing changes things slightly, and I didn't write the last line in this piece. I don't think it's really possible to turn the spotlight off the Galaxy - not as long as David Beckham is on board. It's simply not going to happen. But can Chivas USA steal at least some of the limelight? That's a far more valid possibility.
As inevitably happens in articles, editing changes things slightly, and I didn't write the last line in this piece. I don't think it's really possible to turn the spotlight off the Galaxy - not as long as David Beckham is on board. It's simply not going to happen. But can Chivas USA steal at least some of the limelight? That's a far more valid possibility.
Handy Vanney?
Greg Vanney used to be a good Galaxy defender. Back in the Rose Bowl days, Vanney was a fixture on the backline of an emerging Galaxy club before he went abroad. Now, it's like old times again as Vanney is with the club once more.
But will he once again be a good Galaxy defender?
Alexi Lalas talked to Billy Witz of the Daily News about Vanney, and the Galaxy boss seems to think he's gotten a player with qualities that extend beyond the soccer field.
The part of the story that struck me is where Lalas said that Vanney would "bring a level of professionalism that, quite honestly, we need more of."
When I read that, I paused and wondered if he really said that. Of course he did, but I just couldn't believe that he would actually think that and feel that way.
Let me think of some of the players who carried a great deal of "professionalism" about them whom Lalas has shipped away.
- Todd Dunivant: That guy is a pro's pro. He knows his role on his team and does nothing to take the focus away from his team.
- Tyrone Marshall: Talk about a professional... Tyrone has this league figured out and knows what's important and is not afraid to smack his teammates into shape.
- Chris Albright: He matured so much with the Galaxy. A company man, through and through, Albright was hard on youngsters and demanded a lot from them, and all that was beneficial to the team.
- Kevin Hartman: Sometimes, too honest for his own good, but Gato knew how players needed to carry themselves on and off the field.
- Herculez Gomez: He went from a knucklehead to a pro in no time, and he could have helped groom some of the youngsters along as well.
Anyway, I know there are more, but I want to get back to Lalas' comments. A year ago, the Galaxy needed guys who could handle this unique environment David Beckham's presence demanded. Now, the Galaxy needs more professionalism. I wonder at what point the Galaxy is going to need guys who the team can actually use on the field and build around for several years to come, not aging has-beens with a few good games left in them. I wonder when the Galaxy will feel it is important to keep players for longer than a couple of seasons.
But will he once again be a good Galaxy defender?
Alexi Lalas talked to Billy Witz of the Daily News about Vanney, and the Galaxy boss seems to think he's gotten a player with qualities that extend beyond the soccer field.
The part of the story that struck me is where Lalas said that Vanney would "bring a level of professionalism that, quite honestly, we need more of."
When I read that, I paused and wondered if he really said that. Of course he did, but I just couldn't believe that he would actually think that and feel that way.
Let me think of some of the players who carried a great deal of "professionalism" about them whom Lalas has shipped away.
- Todd Dunivant: That guy is a pro's pro. He knows his role on his team and does nothing to take the focus away from his team.
- Tyrone Marshall: Talk about a professional... Tyrone has this league figured out and knows what's important and is not afraid to smack his teammates into shape.
- Chris Albright: He matured so much with the Galaxy. A company man, through and through, Albright was hard on youngsters and demanded a lot from them, and all that was beneficial to the team.
- Kevin Hartman: Sometimes, too honest for his own good, but Gato knew how players needed to carry themselves on and off the field.
- Herculez Gomez: He went from a knucklehead to a pro in no time, and he could have helped groom some of the youngsters along as well.
Anyway, I know there are more, but I want to get back to Lalas' comments. A year ago, the Galaxy needed guys who could handle this unique environment David Beckham's presence demanded. Now, the Galaxy needs more professionalism. I wonder at what point the Galaxy is going to need guys who the team can actually use on the field and build around for several years to come, not aging has-beens with a few good games left in them. I wonder when the Galaxy will feel it is important to keep players for longer than a couple of seasons.
Email from Africa
Usually I just get the regular email scams, but this one was a bit more soccer-specific, though I'm obviously not an agent. Looking at the pictures that were sent, I couldn't help but think of all the youth soccer practices I've seen in the United States where every player has a practice uniform and the fields are perfectly green grass. But there or in the favelas of Brazil, or in Africa, Asia or anywhere soccer is played, the love of the game continues.
Dear player's agent
i'am a soccer coach in AFRICA precisly in cote d'ivoire ,in my team i have many groups
U8-10 ,U11-13, U14-16 and U18+.
To day i have many good and experient players in U18+ category,i'm ready to dispos all players for tranfer .
if you are interessed and need picture , cv or an others information of players please reply
this message
Friday, February 15, 2008
SuperLiga clubs
Word out of Mexico is that the following four clubs will comprise the Mexican part of SuperLiga 2008:
Chivas, Pachuca, Atlante, Pumas
If true, the tournament would include the finalists from the Apertura 2007 season as well as the Clausura 07 champs (Pachuca) and the Apertura 06 champs (Chivas).
The MLS quartet is expected to be:
Chivas USA, Houston, DC United, New England
Should make for an interesting tournament, especially given the possible matchups of:
Chivas-Chivas USA; Houston-Pachuca; Chivas-DC United
I just hope that Pumas sends its first squad instead of the young team they sent to InterLiga.
Chivas, Pachuca, Atlante, Pumas
If true, the tournament would include the finalists from the Apertura 2007 season as well as the Clausura 07 champs (Pachuca) and the Apertura 06 champs (Chivas).
The MLS quartet is expected to be:
Chivas USA, Houston, DC United, New England
Should make for an interesting tournament, especially given the possible matchups of:
Chivas-Chivas USA; Houston-Pachuca; Chivas-DC United
I just hope that Pumas sends its first squad instead of the young team they sent to InterLiga.
Chivas USA stuff
I was out at Sueno MLS today and will be out there again on Saturday. Jonathan Bornstein and Paulo Nagamura will be out there in the morning as well.
A couple of things I wanted to pass along...
- Chivas USA said sayonara to Takayuki Suzuki. Okay, lame attempt. Sorry. But the former World Cup player is no longer part of the club's preseason contingent. Neither is the Muslin guy who wore 99 during the friendly on Tuesday. They're dropping like flies.
- If you're making plans on watching Chivas USA take on Japan's Under-23 team, scrap them. The game tomorrow will start at 2 p.m. and will be played on the main field at Home Depot Center but will be open to media only. Bummer. I'm just passing along information. If you want to go down and try to get in and catch the action, I guess you could always do that.
A couple of things I wanted to pass along...
- Chivas USA said sayonara to Takayuki Suzuki. Okay, lame attempt. Sorry. But the former World Cup player is no longer part of the club's preseason contingent. Neither is the Muslin guy who wore 99 during the friendly on Tuesday. They're dropping like flies.
- If you're making plans on watching Chivas USA take on Japan's Under-23 team, scrap them. The game tomorrow will start at 2 p.m. and will be played on the main field at Home Depot Center but will be open to media only. Bummer. I'm just passing along information. If you want to go down and try to get in and catch the action, I guess you could always do that.
Random thoughts
Billy Witz has the story on Ty Harden retiring.
Something doesn't feel right to me about this. Pure speculation on my part, but I wonder if Harden isn't taking a year off so he can then unretire and join Seattle when they come into the league in 2009. It wouldn't be the first time a player has pulled this off - in his playing days, Alexi Lalas "retired" and left the Kansas City Wizards in October of 1999 only to sign with the Galaxy in Jan 2001.
Such a move is pretty much the only way Harden could control his destiny. As a lower-rung player, he doesn't have a lot of pull to go where he'd like. Seattle would place him relatively near his hometown of Junction City, Oregon. Harden also attended the University of Washington in Seattle, and probably has many friends and perhaps even a sweetheart in the area. He might have considered it worth the risk to take a year or so off, work a local job, and then hook up with the newest MLS team.
It's ironic that the Galaxy, who are usually the beneficiaries of players wanting to be near LA, may have gotten burned by someone willing to sacrifice to be elsewhere instead.
In the scramble for a replacement, the Galaxy traded to get Greg Vanney from DC United. I think this is a poor move, because Vanney has lost more than a step. He's simply cumbersome these days, and his vast experience and good positioning isn't enough to compensate for that. Going to DC for Vanney is young Quavas Kirk.
Galaxy fans who remember Kirk's various injury problems may not consider his leaving much of a loss, but I'd remind them of how much potential Kirk showed whenever he was healthy. He is big, strong and fast, with a striker's experience when getting forward.
I just talked to Kirk on Wednesday and asked about his injury. He flashed that big grin of his and said he was "all good". It would be just the Galaxy's luck that Kirk is finally really fit and remains injury-free when he's gone.
Something doesn't feel right to me about this. Pure speculation on my part, but I wonder if Harden isn't taking a year off so he can then unretire and join Seattle when they come into the league in 2009. It wouldn't be the first time a player has pulled this off - in his playing days, Alexi Lalas "retired" and left the Kansas City Wizards in October of 1999 only to sign with the Galaxy in Jan 2001.
Such a move is pretty much the only way Harden could control his destiny. As a lower-rung player, he doesn't have a lot of pull to go where he'd like. Seattle would place him relatively near his hometown of Junction City, Oregon. Harden also attended the University of Washington in Seattle, and probably has many friends and perhaps even a sweetheart in the area. He might have considered it worth the risk to take a year or so off, work a local job, and then hook up with the newest MLS team.
It's ironic that the Galaxy, who are usually the beneficiaries of players wanting to be near LA, may have gotten burned by someone willing to sacrifice to be elsewhere instead.
In the scramble for a replacement, the Galaxy traded to get Greg Vanney from DC United. I think this is a poor move, because Vanney has lost more than a step. He's simply cumbersome these days, and his vast experience and good positioning isn't enough to compensate for that. Going to DC for Vanney is young Quavas Kirk.
Galaxy fans who remember Kirk's various injury problems may not consider his leaving much of a loss, but I'd remind them of how much potential Kirk showed whenever he was healthy. He is big, strong and fast, with a striker's experience when getting forward.
I just talked to Kirk on Wednesday and asked about his injury. He flashed that big grin of his and said he was "all good". It would be just the Galaxy's luck that Kirk is finally really fit and remains injury-free when he's gone.
Around town
Sometimes I just see soccer-related stuff and pull out my camera. I found this in a local parking garage.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Who said this? Dos
We didn't play our best and Mexico played well. All that said, we still tied. I think Jozy played well. He wasn't perfect, though. I'm getting more comfortable out there (his playing position). I had more time there this past month.
No thanks
FC Dallas had the chance to sign an international defender but passed. Gustavo Cabrera of the Guatemalan national team and Comunicaciones tried but failed to latch on to FC Dallas. Despite not exactly featuring a wealth of defensive talent, FC Dallas brass apparently felt they could do without the services of a Guatemalan defender.
Of course, it's not just his skill level that has to be considered here. Cabrera would take up a senior international slot, and you don't want to use those on just a marginal or decent player. I've always felt teams should maximize their senior international slots and I don't know that Cabrera would fit that description.
Still, Cabrera must really have not impressed because FC Dallas' defense is shitty no matter if they play with six defensive midfielders.
Of course, it's not just his skill level that has to be considered here. Cabrera would take up a senior international slot, and you don't want to use those on just a marginal or decent player. I've always felt teams should maximize their senior international slots and I don't know that Cabrera would fit that description.
Still, Cabrera must really have not impressed because FC Dallas' defense is shitty no matter if they play with six defensive midfielders.
Finally
We've got our 27,000-seat soccer mecca out here in L.A., and now the nation's capital will have its own 27,000-seater as well.
It looks as if D.C. United will finally get the soccer-specific stadium it so desperately needs. Makes sense too, to have one of the league's best franchises in its own stadium. I mean, how the Rapids have a nice place but D.C. has to play in a fossil of a stadium is strange.
I've never been to RFK Stadium, and while it looks decent in some parts watching it from television, I don't think it will be missed. I heard the press box there smells like cheeseburgers and french fries, since it's situated above some concession stands, or something to the effect.
I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that when the stadium is built - and I'm not sure there is a timeline yet - that the MLS Cup will be played there as well as the All-Star game within a year of opening.
It looks as if D.C. United will finally get the soccer-specific stadium it so desperately needs. Makes sense too, to have one of the league's best franchises in its own stadium. I mean, how the Rapids have a nice place but D.C. has to play in a fossil of a stadium is strange.
I've never been to RFK Stadium, and while it looks decent in some parts watching it from television, I don't think it will be missed. I heard the press box there smells like cheeseburgers and french fries, since it's situated above some concession stands, or something to the effect.
I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that when the stadium is built - and I'm not sure there is a timeline yet - that the MLS Cup will be played there as well as the All-Star game within a year of opening.
Sad end
Nobody wants to go out like this, and if it truly is the end of his days it will be a depressing end to a great career.
Ronaldo tore a tendon in his knee during an Italian league match with AC Milan on Wednesday and was carried off the field in tears. In 2002, he redeemed himself for his 1998 failures, having won the World Cup that eluded him. Ronaldo won a pair of World Cups and scored plenty of goals along the way.
I was lucky enough to see him play in the World Cup, twice actually, in 2002. I was at U.S.-Brazil in 2001 (a friendly at the Rose Bowl) but can't remember if he played. Ronaldinho played, I believe. I was also at Real Madrid-Galaxy in 2005, and I know for sure that he did not play. In fact, his absence was a bit strange. Oh well. There were plenty of other stars there that day.
It's too bad, though, that we didn't get to see him in MLS. I never really thought it would happen, just figured he'd have too much interest in playing in Europe to keep him there. But it would have brought added exposure to the league and given us another star player to watch week in and week out.
And, who knows, it may have prolonged his career.
Ronaldo tore a tendon in his knee during an Italian league match with AC Milan on Wednesday and was carried off the field in tears. In 2002, he redeemed himself for his 1998 failures, having won the World Cup that eluded him. Ronaldo won a pair of World Cups and scored plenty of goals along the way.
Ronaldo's injury, though, is likely the end even if he does return. The way he played and his moves and agility, there's no way a rehabilitated knee could withstand that.
I was lucky enough to see him play in the World Cup, twice actually, in 2002. I was at U.S.-Brazil in 2001 (a friendly at the Rose Bowl) but can't remember if he played. Ronaldinho played, I believe. I was also at Real Madrid-Galaxy in 2005, and I know for sure that he did not play. In fact, his absence was a bit strange. Oh well. There were plenty of other stars there that day.
It's too bad, though, that we didn't get to see him in MLS. I never really thought it would happen, just figured he'd have too much interest in playing in Europe to keep him there. But it would have brought added exposure to the league and given us another star player to watch week in and week out.
And, who knows, it may have prolonged his career.
Who said this?
I liked Mexico. I thought they played better than the U.S. They’ve played well against the U.S. before, but the U.S. is a team that is always organized and never makes mistakes, while Mexico gets distracted and commits errors. That’s when the U.S. does its damage. In this game, the U.S. had the advantage. They went ahead twice, but Mexico was able to respond and tie the game. It surprised me that Mexico scored on set pieces, because the U.S. has tall players, but Mexico had several good plays. I think the players were satisfied with their effort, because they gave a good effort. But the U.S. retains a certain dominance, because in the end, we weren’t able to win. I hope in the next match, the team will triumph. In Mexico, there’s great pressure for us to win versus the U.S.
Becks and Cuauh
Funny - even though this is a bit old. Becks and Temoc are hanging out, with Blanco controlling the remote.
Coincidence
Nothing controversial, folks. I didn't even interview these players at practice. But as it was ending, they happened to come over to where I was. They proceeded to kick balls toward the goal so other players could practice heading. So I took a few pics.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Corrales to San Jose
San Jose added to what is shaping out to be a decent defense corps by adding Ramiro Corrales from Brann via Houston. According to Bernardo Fallas, Corrales joins San Jose for some allocation money.
Corrales joins Nick Garcia, Jason Hernandez and Ryan Cochrane as experienced players on San Jose's defense. Plus he's a former 'Quake, and they love their former 'Quakes up north. With Joe Cannon manning the nets, San Jose's defense doesn't seem as bad as other expansion teams' backlines.
The only question is, will the attackers score some goals to keep the pressure off the defense? Even the best defense will crack if the opponents keep the ball 60 or more percent of the time.
Corrales joins Nick Garcia, Jason Hernandez and Ryan Cochrane as experienced players on San Jose's defense. Plus he's a former 'Quake, and they love their former 'Quakes up north. With Joe Cannon manning the nets, San Jose's defense doesn't seem as bad as other expansion teams' backlines.
The only question is, will the attackers score some goals to keep the pressure off the defense? Even the best defense will crack if the opponents keep the ball 60 or more percent of the time.
Skeptical signing
FC Dallas introduced defender Duilio Davino on Tuesday to the local media and afterward participated in his first training session with the club.
Though Davino brings a quality resume, if I'm an FC Dallas supporter I'm not exactly excited at the prospects of having him around.
Davino is aging. He has clearly lost a couple of steps. He doesn't know the league - the style of play, the opponents, the pace of the MLS game, the physical aspects of it - but he's going to be tagged with the responsibility to stabilize the defense. Now, you may fall back on the experience factor and feel comfortable. After all, this guy does have a quality resume - World Cup veteran, more than 75 caps for Mexico, league champion with Club America, more than 400 Mexican First Division appearances.
FC Dallas' defense is troubling. Drew Moor returns, and as long as Jonny Magallon isn't around, he'll be okay. Clarence Goodson is out. So is Chris Gbandi. After that, there aren't a lot of guys around who saw a lot of minutes in 2007. Bobby Rhine is around, as well as Alex Yi and David Wagenfuhr, but those guys are spot starters/decent backups at best.
FC Dallas' defense is in trouble, and pinning their hopes on Davino isn't the best solution.
Perhaps, though, this move is supposed to draw more fans. And while Davino is certainly a recognizable figure to America fans - and there are many of them - I don't know that a defender will draw people to games. Rafael Marquez, perhaps. Duilio Davino, not so much.
Though Davino brings a quality resume, if I'm an FC Dallas supporter I'm not exactly excited at the prospects of having him around.
Davino is aging. He has clearly lost a couple of steps. He doesn't know the league - the style of play, the opponents, the pace of the MLS game, the physical aspects of it - but he's going to be tagged with the responsibility to stabilize the defense. Now, you may fall back on the experience factor and feel comfortable. After all, this guy does have a quality resume - World Cup veteran, more than 75 caps for Mexico, league champion with Club America, more than 400 Mexican First Division appearances.
FC Dallas' defense is troubling. Drew Moor returns, and as long as Jonny Magallon isn't around, he'll be okay. Clarence Goodson is out. So is Chris Gbandi. After that, there aren't a lot of guys around who saw a lot of minutes in 2007. Bobby Rhine is around, as well as Alex Yi and David Wagenfuhr, but those guys are spot starters/decent backups at best.
FC Dallas' defense is in trouble, and pinning their hopes on Davino isn't the best solution.
Perhaps, though, this move is supposed to draw more fans. And while Davino is certainly a recognizable figure to America fans - and there are many of them - I don't know that a defender will draw people to games. Rafael Marquez, perhaps. Duilio Davino, not so much.
More U.S-Mexico thoughts
The San Diego Union-Tribune's Mark Zeigler takes another look at the U.S.-Mexico match in his weekly soccer column.
One thing he points out here is Landon Donovan's role on the right side of the field. Now, I don't think Bob Bradley has Landon tied down to the right flank. Donovan has the freedom to roam around the center of the field - at least that's what we've heard from Bradley before.
But this game and the many before this one that have had Landon out right just prove that he is ineffective out there. He needs to be in the middle with the freedom to roam to the flanks, not the other way around.
I know using a 3-5-2 isn't realistic for the U.S. but it's always intrigued me nonetheless. With a three-man backling, you could get away with playing Landon in the center of the midfield along with Michael Bradley and Ricardo Clark or Maurice Edu or Benny Feilhaber. It just seems the options in the center are strong and in certain spots on the back are weak. With a three-man backline, you eliminate the need for a left back and the possibility of Ramiro Corrales ever playing a meaningful match for the U.S. again. Jonathan Bornstein can play wide left as a midfielder and is fast enough to drop back and help the backline.
It's going to be a long World Cup qualifying cycle and those will utlimately be the important games, but it's these sort of details that will make a huge difference down the line.
One thing he points out here is Landon Donovan's role on the right side of the field. Now, I don't think Bob Bradley has Landon tied down to the right flank. Donovan has the freedom to roam around the center of the field - at least that's what we've heard from Bradley before.
But this game and the many before this one that have had Landon out right just prove that he is ineffective out there. He needs to be in the middle with the freedom to roam to the flanks, not the other way around.
I know using a 3-5-2 isn't realistic for the U.S. but it's always intrigued me nonetheless. With a three-man backling, you could get away with playing Landon in the center of the midfield along with Michael Bradley and Ricardo Clark or Maurice Edu or Benny Feilhaber. It just seems the options in the center are strong and in certain spots on the back are weak. With a three-man backline, you eliminate the need for a left back and the possibility of Ramiro Corrales ever playing a meaningful match for the U.S. again. Jonathan Bornstein can play wide left as a midfielder and is fast enough to drop back and help the backline.
It's going to be a long World Cup qualifying cycle and those will utlimately be the important games, but it's these sort of details that will make a huge difference down the line.
No go
Jose Cardozo is gone. He looked slow and out of shape, according to Preki.
Cardozo was a legend in Mexico. With Toluca, Cardozo was one of the best strikers the Mexican league has ever seen. But two years of retirement will do make you slow and unfit. It's one thing to miss a year with injury or for whatever reason and come back, but two years off on the wrong side of 30 is not a good thing.
Cardozo was a legend in Mexico. With Toluca, Cardozo was one of the best strikers the Mexican league has ever seen. But two years of retirement will do make you slow and unfit. It's one thing to miss a year with injury or for whatever reason and come back, but two years off on the wrong side of 30 is not a good thing.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
MLS' best striker?
You could make a pretty strong case for Juan Pablo Angel. He did miss an open shot today against Chivas USA, pushed it just wide actually, but it's just rust that he'll have overcome by the start of the season. Better to miss those now than in April.
Also a nice guy and stopped to take pictures with onlookers, even with a schmuck wearing a Pachuca jersey (thanks gly!).
Deep and talented
How deep is Chivas USA? The team they sent out against New York today, the first-half team anyway, was a decent one. And that team wasn't full strength. Not by a long shot. All you have to do is compare teams to see how good this club can be.
Tuesday's first-half squad: Brad Guzan; Jorge Flores, Claudio Suarez, Jim Curtin, Alex Zotinca; John Cunliffe, Jesse Marsch, Marko Murlin, Sacha Kljestan; Ante Razov, Atiba Harris.
The players who were not available for the game: (okay, no decent goalie to call in but...) Sam Reynolds; Jonathan Bornstein, Shavar Thomas, Bobby Burling, Lawson Vaughn; Francisco Mendoza, Paulo Nagamura, Raphael Wicky, Anthony Hamilton; Alecko Eskandarian, Maykel Galindo.
There is some notable dropoff in a few positions but this team has close to an embarrassment of riches.
Shavar Thomas, by the way, is stuck in Jamaica. He's trying to get a visa to get his way back into the United States.
Tuesday's first-half squad: Brad Guzan; Jorge Flores, Claudio Suarez, Jim Curtin, Alex Zotinca; John Cunliffe, Jesse Marsch, Marko Murlin, Sacha Kljestan; Ante Razov, Atiba Harris.
The players who were not available for the game: (okay, no decent goalie to call in but...) Sam Reynolds; Jonathan Bornstein, Shavar Thomas, Bobby Burling, Lawson Vaughn; Francisco Mendoza, Paulo Nagamura, Raphael Wicky, Anthony Hamilton; Alecko Eskandarian, Maykel Galindo.
There is some notable dropoff in a few positions but this team has close to an embarrassment of riches.
Shavar Thomas, by the way, is stuck in Jamaica. He's trying to get a visa to get his way back into the United States.
Running laps
First-teamers running laps while would-be teammates prepared for second half. From left to right: Atiba Harris, Jim Curtin, Claudio Suarez, Ante Razov, Sacha Kljestan, Alex Zotinca, Jesse Marsch.
Hey ladies
Some nice eye candy made its way around the track and field stadium today. Not sure who these ladies were but they were easy on the eyes.
Badilla MLS bound?
New England has apparently set their sights on Deportivo Saprissa defender Gabriel Badilla. According to this report from Costa Rica, Badilla could soon join the MLS Cup runners-up.
With Badilla, 23, and Michael Parkhurst on the backline, New England would have the best young defensive pair in the league, and possibly the best defensive pair, period. Badilla would be an upgrade over Avery John, and quite a bit younger. Badilla played for Costa Rica in the 2006 World Cup. He's a central defender but can also play wide if need be.
With Badilla, 23, and Michael Parkhurst on the backline, New England would have the best young defensive pair in the league, and possibly the best defensive pair, period. Badilla would be an upgrade over Avery John, and quite a bit younger. Badilla played for Costa Rica in the 2006 World Cup. He's a central defender but can also play wide if need be.
Like old times
Jim Curtin, Bob Bradley and Ante Razov hanging out on the Chivas USA sideline. Jesse Marsch was with this trio a bit as well but sneaked away before I could take a decent picture.Letting his hair down
I got the chance to talk to Alecko Eskandarian for the first time today, well, for the first time since he's been here with Chivas USA. He seems like a good guy who will be willing to do whatever he can to help Chivas win.
He also said he's going to ditch his headgear. I've had difficulty spotting him while out at training. I guess I'm so used to Alecko wearing his headgear that that's what I instinctively search for. Instead, he's the one in need of a haircut. Actually, his new look just looks different.
Guzan shuts out Red Bulls
I've been out and about doing family stuff for most of the afternoon so I haven't yet gotten a chance to post about today's Chivas USA-Red Bulls match. The Red-and-White beat New York 1-0 on an early goal by Ante Razov. It was so early in fact that I didn't see it. Thanks to bad traffic on the 91, I didn't get to the game until minutes after Ante scored. Of course, not much happened afterward.
Chivas USA looked like this in the first half:
Brad Guzan; Jorge Flores, Jim Curtin, Claudio Suarez, Alex Zotinca; John Cunliffe, Marko Muslin, Jesse Marsch, Sacha Kljestan; Ante Razov, Atiba Harris.
The second half lineup:
Brad Guzan, Jorge Flores, Mike Munoz, Marko Muslin, Zach Flores; El Hadj Cisse (Nick Blanco 77), Kraig Chiles, Dan Paladini, Keith Savagel Justin Braun, Chukwudi Chijinju.
I thought Jorge Flores played decent at left back. He wasn't Jonathan Bornstein but he did okay for himself. Not sure if that's his best position but he could prove to be useful at left back if he develops well there. None of the other players from the second half impressed, well, except for Brad Guzan. He made a pair of nice saves late in the game to preserve the shutout.
Chivas USA looked like this in the first half:
Brad Guzan; Jorge Flores, Jim Curtin, Claudio Suarez, Alex Zotinca; John Cunliffe, Marko Muslin, Jesse Marsch, Sacha Kljestan; Ante Razov, Atiba Harris.
The second half lineup:
Brad Guzan, Jorge Flores, Mike Munoz, Marko Muslin, Zach Flores; El Hadj Cisse (Nick Blanco 77), Kraig Chiles, Dan Paladini, Keith Savagel Justin Braun, Chukwudi Chijinju.
I thought Jorge Flores played decent at left back. He wasn't Jonathan Bornstein but he did okay for himself. Not sure if that's his best position but he could prove to be useful at left back if he develops well there. None of the other players from the second half impressed, well, except for Brad Guzan. He made a pair of nice saves late in the game to preserve the shutout.
Nice shot
Clint Mathis is showing no signs of slowing down. After he spurned MLS and the Galaxy by joining Ergotelis of Greece, Mathis warmed up to his new club by knocking in this nifty equalizer in a 2-2 draw on the weekend against Apollon Kalamarias.
Is it me or does that little tune at the end of the clip remind you of The Cure's "Just Like Heaven?"
Anyway, nice goal!
Is it me or does that little tune at the end of the clip remind you of The Cure's "Just Like Heaven?"
Anyway, nice goal!
Trouble for Nkong
Alain Nkong was on top of the world last week after scoring the match-winner in Cameroon's 1-0 semifinal win over Ghana in the African Nations Cup.
Now, he may be looking for an attorney.
Nkong was a no-show in Cancun as he was supposed to have reported back to Atlante following the ANC, which for Nkong ended in a 1-0 loss to Egypt on Sunday. Nkong, though, was not heading back to Atlante's first club. The defending Mexican league champs wanted to send Nkong to Leon of the second division but Nkong apparently felt he deserved better.
Atlante filed a complaint against Nkong, according to this story. They've taken some recourse and gotten the FMF involved. Atlante officials, though, said they would be open to talking to Nkong to come to an agreement.
Nkong landed a spot on Atlante before the start of the Apertura 2007 season and helped Atlante win a championship. After he was selected for Cameroon's ANC squad, Atlante dropped Nkong and wanted to ship him to the second division, but Nkong said no and now the club is apparently trying to force its will.
Now, he may be looking for an attorney.
Nkong was a no-show in Cancun as he was supposed to have reported back to Atlante following the ANC, which for Nkong ended in a 1-0 loss to Egypt on Sunday. Nkong, though, was not heading back to Atlante's first club. The defending Mexican league champs wanted to send Nkong to Leon of the second division but Nkong apparently felt he deserved better.
Atlante filed a complaint against Nkong, according to this story. They've taken some recourse and gotten the FMF involved. Atlante officials, though, said they would be open to talking to Nkong to come to an agreement.
Nkong landed a spot on Atlante before the start of the Apertura 2007 season and helped Atlante win a championship. After he was selected for Cameroon's ANC squad, Atlante dropped Nkong and wanted to ship him to the second division, but Nkong said no and now the club is apparently trying to force its will.
Champs = best?
Are champions the best?
Maybe, maybe not. The couple of responses I got here yesterday said that winners were the best and that's that.
While I agree that winning trumps everything - I don't think Greeks cared if they were perceived to be the best European team in 2004 - it's still a debate that rages on regardless. An English buddy of mine told me after the Euro 2004 final that England would beet Greece hands down, so he obviously didn't feel Greece was better than England.
However, I disagree a bit with the assertion that a championship means that the team is the best. I think if we were to rank the Asian sides here, we'd probably have South Korea and Japan as numbers one and two, or two and one, with someone possibly throwing Saudi Arabia into the mix. I don't think anyone would mention Iraq as being the best Asian side, even though they are the Asian Cup holders.
Ultimately trophies speak the loudest, but this debate rages on regardless of titles. I just tried to give some insight as to why there is a lingering debate.
Maybe, maybe not. The couple of responses I got here yesterday said that winners were the best and that's that.
While I agree that winning trumps everything - I don't think Greeks cared if they were perceived to be the best European team in 2004 - it's still a debate that rages on regardless. An English buddy of mine told me after the Euro 2004 final that England would beet Greece hands down, so he obviously didn't feel Greece was better than England.
However, I disagree a bit with the assertion that a championship means that the team is the best. I think if we were to rank the Asian sides here, we'd probably have South Korea and Japan as numbers one and two, or two and one, with someone possibly throwing Saudi Arabia into the mix. I don't think anyone would mention Iraq as being the best Asian side, even though they are the Asian Cup holders.
Ultimately trophies speak the loudest, but this debate rages on regardless of titles. I just tried to give some insight as to why there is a lingering debate.
Voices in the crowd
Another complainer?
Or will people realize that when a sport is growing, media exposure is something that should be fostered?
Or will people realize that when a sport is growing, media exposure is something that should be fostered?
Monday, February 11, 2008
Pan Pacific coverage
In case you care about the tournament, the Pan-Pacific Championship will be broadcast on ESPN Classic. It's not exactly a prime channel, but it's something.
Incidentally, I heard an explanation last week about the participating teams. Supposedly it was to be the US champs (Houston), the Japanese champs (Gamba Osaka), an Australian team (Sydney FC) and the SuperLiga champs (Pachuca). But since Pachuca supposedly declined to participate, the SuperLiga runners-up were chosen to go, and thus we have the LA Galaxy.
Sydney FC, by the way, aren't the Aussie champs but they are a finalist for the A-League championship.
As far as the Galaxy's participation, how convenient...
Incidentally, I heard an explanation last week about the participating teams. Supposedly it was to be the US champs (Houston), the Japanese champs (Gamba Osaka), an Australian team (Sydney FC) and the SuperLiga champs (Pachuca). But since Pachuca supposedly declined to participate, the SuperLiga runners-up were chosen to go, and thus we have the LA Galaxy.
Sydney FC, by the way, aren't the Aussie champs but they are a finalist for the A-League championship.
As far as the Galaxy's participation, how convenient...
Africa's best
Egypt claimed the African Nations Cup on Sunday, and thus they are kings of Africa.
But are they Africa's best side?
I was struck with this dilemma yesterday so I decided to explore it a bit more. You'll have to wait for Tuesday's PE column for my explorations (I looked at all the confederations and the supposed best teams in each region).
Egypt, though, struck me as odd. Egypt won the ANC in 2006 and 2008 and beat Ivory Coast and Cameroon (twice) en route to this year's crown. But Egypt did not qualify for the 2006 World Cup, nor the 2002 cup, the 1998 cup and the 1994 cup. In fact, Egypt has only played in two World Cups - 1990 and 1934. Additionally, their roster is not as stacked as other African nations.
Still, Egypt won this tournament two consecutive times now, which proves it isn't a fluke.
What constitutes "best?" As I mention in my column, if you ask a typical American soccer fan and a typical Mexican soccer fan who the best team in CONCACAF is, you'll get two different answers. What defines "best?" Is it simply championships won? Players the nation has produced? Does the league come into play? What about matches against common opponents? Games in Europe? Simply qualifying for tournaments? What about youth national teams - do those count?
It's really a subject you can write a book on. My PE attempt was about 800 words.
I didn't really come to a conclusion in my column, though, at least as to Egypt's superiority. I would consider them the best side right now but they have to qualify for the 2010 World Cup. The two-time defending African champions simply have to, otherwise we'll be right back here a couple of years from now.
But are they Africa's best side?
I was struck with this dilemma yesterday so I decided to explore it a bit more. You'll have to wait for Tuesday's PE column for my explorations (I looked at all the confederations and the supposed best teams in each region).
Egypt, though, struck me as odd. Egypt won the ANC in 2006 and 2008 and beat Ivory Coast and Cameroon (twice) en route to this year's crown. But Egypt did not qualify for the 2006 World Cup, nor the 2002 cup, the 1998 cup and the 1994 cup. In fact, Egypt has only played in two World Cups - 1990 and 1934. Additionally, their roster is not as stacked as other African nations.
Still, Egypt won this tournament two consecutive times now, which proves it isn't a fluke.
What constitutes "best?" As I mention in my column, if you ask a typical American soccer fan and a typical Mexican soccer fan who the best team in CONCACAF is, you'll get two different answers. What defines "best?" Is it simply championships won? Players the nation has produced? Does the league come into play? What about matches against common opponents? Games in Europe? Simply qualifying for tournaments? What about youth national teams - do those count?
It's really a subject you can write a book on. My PE attempt was about 800 words.
I didn't really come to a conclusion in my column, though, at least as to Egypt's superiority. I would consider them the best side right now but they have to qualify for the 2010 World Cup. The two-time defending African champions simply have to, otherwise we'll be right back here a couple of years from now.
Rapidly improving
Christian Gomez has been property of the Colorado Rapids for about three days now, and I still can't believe it.
I'm not so stunned that Colorado pulled off a deal - they actually had a decent offseason a year ago. But to get a player of Gomez's caliber, easily one of the top five players in MLS, is quite a surprise.
The move thrusts Colorado into the throes of the playoff contenders out West. I've always been a fan of Terry Cooke, and add Pablo Mastroeni, Mehdi Ballouchy and Colin Clark to the mix and Colorado has a deep, talented and versatile midfield.
Still, I am not convinced it can work simply because Fernando Clavijo is pulling the strings. Will he let the guys in the middle of the field play or will he suck the creativity out of Gomez? Still, as much incompetence as Clavijo has shown in recent years, even he can't mess up Gomez, can he?
I'm not so stunned that Colorado pulled off a deal - they actually had a decent offseason a year ago. But to get a player of Gomez's caliber, easily one of the top five players in MLS, is quite a surprise.
The move thrusts Colorado into the throes of the playoff contenders out West. I've always been a fan of Terry Cooke, and add Pablo Mastroeni, Mehdi Ballouchy and Colin Clark to the mix and Colorado has a deep, talented and versatile midfield.
Still, I am not convinced it can work simply because Fernando Clavijo is pulling the strings. Will he let the guys in the middle of the field play or will he suck the creativity out of Gomez? Still, as much incompetence as Clavijo has shown in recent years, even he can't mess up Gomez, can he?
Scenes of joy
Snippets of the celebrations across Cairo after Egypt won their confederation championship. Similar scenes played out in Chicago last year after the U.S. won... oh wait, no they didn't.
African champions
In case you haven't seen the highlights, Egypy beat Cameroon 1-0 in Sunday's African Nations Cup final. No magic from Eto'o and Nkong were enough to keep Egypt from winning their sixth African Nations Cup crown.
Rigobert Song had a horror of an effort on the match-winner.
Rigobert Song had a horror of an effort on the match-winner.
Friday, February 8, 2008
The Jalisco Incident
Yep, Luis posts important videos from competitions. While I find this stuff.
A word of advice to fans coming to Galaxy or Chivas USA training. Avoid the bushes or the cement walls around the training fields.
A word of advice to fans coming to Galaxy or Chivas USA training. Avoid the bushes or the cement walls around the training fields.
African semis
Here are the highlights of Ghana-Cameroon. Alain Nkong's goal was a thing of beauty.
And here's Egypt-Ivory Coast, widely considered an upset though Egypt won the ANC in 2006.
And here's Egypt-Ivory Coast, widely considered an upset though Egypt won the ANC in 2006.
Path becoming clearer
The United States' schedule for later this year hasn't been set yet. The U.S. still has to get past the major hurdle that is Barbados/Dominica, major as in let's hope no one picks up a major injury in that walkover series.
Once in the semifinal round, the U.S. will play games in some of the following sites:
Bridgeview, Ill.; Columbus, Ohio; Frisco, Texas; Seattle, Wash.; Commerce City, Colo.; and Washington D.C.
If form holds, the United States' schedule will be the following:
Sept. 10 vs. Cuba
Oct. 11 vs. Trinidad & Tobago
Nov. 19 vs. Guatemala
It would be nice to see different venues used for this round. For qualifying in 04-05, the US played in, among other sites, Foxboro, Columbus, D.C., Alabama, Salt Lake and Connecticut. Already, the US will use a new venue as Home Depot Center will be utilized for the Barbados/Dominica showdown.
I'd like to see a clean sweep of new venues: Toyota Park, DSG Park and Pizza Hut Park. You'd get (hopefully) good crowds for these important games in cities that have invested in American soccer. Not a bad deal.
Once in the semifinal round, the U.S. will play games in some of the following sites:
Bridgeview, Ill.; Columbus, Ohio; Frisco, Texas; Seattle, Wash.; Commerce City, Colo.; and Washington D.C.
If form holds, the United States' schedule will be the following:
Sept. 10 vs. Cuba
Oct. 11 vs. Trinidad & Tobago
Nov. 19 vs. Guatemala
It would be nice to see different venues used for this round. For qualifying in 04-05, the US played in, among other sites, Foxboro, Columbus, D.C., Alabama, Salt Lake and Connecticut. Already, the US will use a new venue as Home Depot Center will be utilized for the Barbados/Dominica showdown.
I'd like to see a clean sweep of new venues: Toyota Park, DSG Park and Pizza Hut Park. You'd get (hopefully) good crowds for these important games in cities that have invested in American soccer. Not a bad deal.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Laughing last
The U.S. went ahead, but Mexico pulled back each time. Here's one viewpoint where the joke is both on Landon Donovan and Hugo Sanchez.
The little Mexican mascot says, "Well, at least we shut Donovan up." The second one says, "Unfortunately, now this guy won't shut up."
The little Mexican mascot says, "Well, at least we shut Donovan up." The second one says, "Unfortunately, now this guy won't shut up."
Red-and-White preseason
Chivas USA announced their preseason schedule. Because few of you will head to the away games, here are the SoCal preseason fixtures.
Tuesday, Feb. 12 - New York, 10 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 16 - Japan U-23, 2 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 18 - DC United, noon
Wednesday, Feb. 20 - UC Riverside, 10 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 23 - Columbus, at Santa Clarita, 5 p.m.
Saturday, March 15 - San Diego St., 10 a.m.
Wednesday, March 19 - CS Fullerton, 10 a.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 12 - New York, 10 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 16 - Japan U-23, 2 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 18 - DC United, noon
Wednesday, Feb. 20 - UC Riverside, 10 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 23 - Columbus, at Santa Clarita, 5 p.m.
Saturday, March 15 - San Diego St., 10 a.m.
Wednesday, March 19 - CS Fullerton, 10 a.m.
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