There is nothing to be said about last nights thrashing to RSL besides that we were thoroughly dominated. I'd like to sit here and blame the Sounders for being flat and lacking intensity, but I just think RSL was the better team. Sure, there were a lot of turnovers and some pretty terrible play that the Sounders need to be held accountable for, but there is a huge reason why they played poorly: RSL.
No one besides Kasey Keller and possibly Fredy Montero had a good game. The Midfield was atrocious. It starts with Brad Evans, who I'm not sure I saw on the field at all, and it continued with Neagle, Flaco and Ozzie. The defense was equally bad, as Hurtado and Parke got owned all night. I honestly thought we were playing 2 men down the entire game - RSL was just that good.
And really, I should have seen it coming. Sure, I talked myself into thinking that RSL's late season slump was real and that Morales and Beckerman were somehow not going to mesh after being apart for nearly 5 months. But the reality is that they have the most talented squad from 1-11 in MLS (and this is something I said back in March when they were the clear favorites). I know Los Angeles ran away with the league, but to me, RSL has only one hole in their squad and that is 45 year old Andy Williams, who himself is no slouch.
In the end, RSL beat the Sounders and they frustrated them. Ozzie was lucky to have not been sent off. Putting your hands on an opponents face is a no-no. Retaliating away from the play is even worse. He is lucky.
So now we have a weird situation. We need to win 3-0 or 4-1 at home on Wednesday and you can't imagine the fans are going to be happy. If the team doesn't score early, the atmosphere in the stands is going to be toxic. I don't like to admit it, but it's the truth. They need to get an early goal and have the crowd help them get back into it. It it's 0-0 at half, then they are not going to have a chance because the crowd will have lost faith.
Overall, just a terrible night to be a Sounders fan. Here's hoping for a miracle on Wednesday.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
It's Been a Damn Good Year
The next two games will go a long way in determining whether the 2011 Sounders campaign was a success. It is sad to say considering the regular season success we have had, but if we flame out again in the first round of the MLS Playoffs, there will be a bitter taste left in our mouth. There is no way around it. So I wanted to take the time to write my review of the regular season prior to the playoffs as a reminder of just how great this season has been.
In terms of those on the field, I'm not even sure where to start, so I am going to start by giving Sigi his due. While I certainly respected the job that he did in his first two years in Seattle, I could never get around his love of Pete Vagenas. It was really such a small thing - I mean, Vagenas while not flashy certainly a capable player - but I just never understood why he got playing time over some younger guys who simply lacked experience. I also was dumbfounded how Seba LeToux could go from being a 1 goal guy for us in 2009 to MVP candidate for Philly in 2010 and 2011. Add in his terribly boring press conferences and I just started to have a bad taste in my mouth...well, that all went away this year as I have finally seen his worth. While he might not be the best tactical guy, his team management has been amazing. He was able to integrate the likes of Roger Levesque, Zach Scott, Pat Noonan, Servanda Carrasco and Nate Jaqua into the squad and not have it affect there success in any competition. Not only did they win the US Open Cup, but they finished 2nd in MLS and made it out of their Champions League group. Did I also mention that they were the highest scoring team in the league and the 4th stingiest team in the league? Did I also mention that they Blaise N'kufo, Steve Zakuani and O'Brian White within the first month of the season?? Ummm, yeah, I'm sorry Arena, but I think Sigi HAS to get the nod as coach of the year.
I want to also give some kudos to Adrian Hanauer for building this team. I know a lot of fans are still mad at him for not picking up a big name striker at the transfer deadline, but the fact remains that this team led the league in goals (56 from 15 different scorers(!)) AND they did it without the aforementioned trio of NKufo, Zakuani and White. I also know that a lot of fans are upset at the salaries that Jaqua, Evans and Noonan are carrying around, but he has made it work. Part of it is due to the professionalism of the USL Sounders - Scott, Levesque and Graham (ok, Taylor has never made the field, but I wanted to give him some credit) - for earning close to minimum salary. Part of it is due to Kasey Keller taking less money to play another year in Seattle. Part of it was luck (see Rosales, Mauro). All reasons combined, he has put together a team that not only can compete for the MLS title, but one that is deep enough to be successful in multiple competitions.
Ok, on to the field players, because ultimately they are ones who are respibsible for wins and losses. There is no better place to start than with the guy who retiring at the end of the year. I'm not normally in the 'goalie is the most important position on the field' camp, but it's hard to argue that Kasey Keller has not been the most important player for the Sounders over the past 3 years. A few howlers aside, Keller has been pretty amazing for a 40 year old. In 2011 he led the league in wins (18) and save percentage (76%) and was third in goals against average (1.09) for all keepers who played in more than 20 games. The most important think Kasey has brought however, is his leadership. He demands so much respect and accountability from his teammates and I could really see this team lifting the Cup simply as a homage to Keller.
From there, I think you have to talk about the continued development of both Fredy Montero and Ozzie Alonso. It is strange to say that considering Fredy's consistent scoring touch (12-10-12) over his first 3 years, but seriously, he is a completely different player this year than last. No one has ever doubted his talent, but this year he has mentally and emotionally matured to the point where he won't disappear if he doesn't score for 5 games. Even when he was in his dry spell early in the season, I was saying how well he has been playing. To point, in addition to being tied for 5th in goals, he was tied for 5th in assists. As for Alonso, their is not enough space or time to write about my love. He continues to be the backbone of the team and now has shown that he can contribute offensively. He has been a beast and I love him. (btw - I think both players will get looks from Europe this off-season, but I think they are both back for 2012).
The biggest surprise has of course been Mauro Rosales, aka "The Trialist". For those who don't know his story, it goes as such. Rosales, a former gold-medal winning M from Argentina who played for both Ajax and River Plate, found himself out of a job when his Mexican club Quetara FC in February. The club reports that he was hurt. Rosales contends that the team signed too many foreign players and thus were trying to save face by saying that he was hurt. His agent, former FC Dallas keeper Dario Sala, steered him towards MLS and specifically Seattle. The Sounders had minimal money to offer but somehow convinced him that this was the place he wanted to be. During the pre-season he joined the team under the moniker The Trialist (the team didn't want any other teams to find out about him) and instantly became a crowd favorite because of his work ethic. Once he became game fit, he became even more a favorite because well...he is awesome! For two years I have prayed that we could find a Latin American playmaker ala Javier Morales and David Ferriera and finally we got him. He brings something to this team that has never been seen before - vision and creativity. I am absolutely stoked thinking about him playing on the same pitch as both Montero AND Zakuani next year. Oh man, it is going to be nice.
Ok, in order not to spend entire paragraphs talking each player (and in order not to have a few more terrible transitions), I offer the following bullet points.
In terms of those on the field, I'm not even sure where to start, so I am going to start by giving Sigi his due. While I certainly respected the job that he did in his first two years in Seattle, I could never get around his love of Pete Vagenas. It was really such a small thing - I mean, Vagenas while not flashy certainly a capable player - but I just never understood why he got playing time over some younger guys who simply lacked experience. I also was dumbfounded how Seba LeToux could go from being a 1 goal guy for us in 2009 to MVP candidate for Philly in 2010 and 2011. Add in his terribly boring press conferences and I just started to have a bad taste in my mouth...well, that all went away this year as I have finally seen his worth. While he might not be the best tactical guy, his team management has been amazing. He was able to integrate the likes of Roger Levesque, Zach Scott, Pat Noonan, Servanda Carrasco and Nate Jaqua into the squad and not have it affect there success in any competition. Not only did they win the US Open Cup, but they finished 2nd in MLS and made it out of their Champions League group. Did I also mention that they were the highest scoring team in the league and the 4th stingiest team in the league? Did I also mention that they Blaise N'kufo, Steve Zakuani and O'Brian White within the first month of the season?? Ummm, yeah, I'm sorry Arena, but I think Sigi HAS to get the nod as coach of the year.
I want to also give some kudos to Adrian Hanauer for building this team. I know a lot of fans are still mad at him for not picking up a big name striker at the transfer deadline, but the fact remains that this team led the league in goals (56 from 15 different scorers(!)) AND they did it without the aforementioned trio of NKufo, Zakuani and White. I also know that a lot of fans are upset at the salaries that Jaqua, Evans and Noonan are carrying around, but he has made it work. Part of it is due to the professionalism of the USL Sounders - Scott, Levesque and Graham (ok, Taylor has never made the field, but I wanted to give him some credit) - for earning close to minimum salary. Part of it is due to Kasey Keller taking less money to play another year in Seattle. Part of it was luck (see Rosales, Mauro). All reasons combined, he has put together a team that not only can compete for the MLS title, but one that is deep enough to be successful in multiple competitions.
Ok, on to the field players, because ultimately they are ones who are respibsible for wins and losses. There is no better place to start than with the guy who retiring at the end of the year. I'm not normally in the 'goalie is the most important position on the field' camp, but it's hard to argue that Kasey Keller has not been the most important player for the Sounders over the past 3 years. A few howlers aside, Keller has been pretty amazing for a 40 year old. In 2011 he led the league in wins (18) and save percentage (76%) and was third in goals against average (1.09) for all keepers who played in more than 20 games. The most important think Kasey has brought however, is his leadership. He demands so much respect and accountability from his teammates and I could really see this team lifting the Cup simply as a homage to Keller.
From there, I think you have to talk about the continued development of both Fredy Montero and Ozzie Alonso. It is strange to say that considering Fredy's consistent scoring touch (12-10-12) over his first 3 years, but seriously, he is a completely different player this year than last. No one has ever doubted his talent, but this year he has mentally and emotionally matured to the point where he won't disappear if he doesn't score for 5 games. Even when he was in his dry spell early in the season, I was saying how well he has been playing. To point, in addition to being tied for 5th in goals, he was tied for 5th in assists. As for Alonso, their is not enough space or time to write about my love. He continues to be the backbone of the team and now has shown that he can contribute offensively. He has been a beast and I love him. (btw - I think both players will get looks from Europe this off-season, but I think they are both back for 2012).
The biggest surprise has of course been Mauro Rosales, aka "The Trialist". For those who don't know his story, it goes as such. Rosales, a former gold-medal winning M from Argentina who played for both Ajax and River Plate, found himself out of a job when his Mexican club Quetara FC in February. The club reports that he was hurt. Rosales contends that the team signed too many foreign players and thus were trying to save face by saying that he was hurt. His agent, former FC Dallas keeper Dario Sala, steered him towards MLS and specifically Seattle. The Sounders had minimal money to offer but somehow convinced him that this was the place he wanted to be. During the pre-season he joined the team under the moniker The Trialist (the team didn't want any other teams to find out about him) and instantly became a crowd favorite because of his work ethic. Once he became game fit, he became even more a favorite because well...he is awesome! For two years I have prayed that we could find a Latin American playmaker ala Javier Morales and David Ferriera and finally we got him. He brings something to this team that has never been seen before - vision and creativity. I am absolutely stoked thinking about him playing on the same pitch as both Montero AND Zakuani next year. Oh man, it is going to be nice.
Ok, in order not to spend entire paragraphs talking each player (and in order not to have a few more terrible transitions), I offer the following bullet points.
- The most underrated player on the team remains Jeff Parke. I wasn't a huge fan of his at first because of the contract demands, but he has been well worth every penny we are giving him. He has been really great all season and definitely deserves a invitation to the US National Camp later this year.
- It is great to have El Presidente back. He was a little shaky at first, but has really come on as of late. He is not the best with the ball at his feet, but I think he is an excellent man marker. Together he and Parke have been rock solid.
- Tyson Wahl has been a nice surprise. I never thought I would feel comfortable with him as a starter, but he deserves to be playing over Leo.
- James Riley has quietly had another solid season, so much so that Irish Mike is no longer killing him.
- Zach Scott, The Cich's (formerly known as The Wife) second favorite player, has filled an important role. I don't like him at right back, but he stepped in nicely at center back when needed. Regardless of what you think of him as a player, he continues to be an inspiration for all those who have ever been told that they can't play.
- El Flaco continues to wow me with some of his moves, but I would like to see him become a little more consistent. I am not hating on him in any sense of the word, but I simply think he has a HUGE upside that I would like to see fulfilled in Seattle.
- Lamar Neagle is definitely the best story of the season. There is no way anyone could have imagined he would score 1 goal, let alone 5 (especially the game winner against RSL or the hat trick against Columbus). While he really cannot be compared to Zakunai, he did provide the team with much needed pace and his motor never stops running.
- I am really excited about Sammy Ochoa and have been so since seeing his first two games (when he didn't score). I think he is a massive upgrade over Jaqua and hope he will be the best under-the-radar pickup of the year.
- I like Mike Fucito. He creates a lot of chances, but I would like to see him convert more in MLS play. I think this could be the guy who we lose to Montreal should we not protect him.
- Nate Jaqua continues to be on the roster. I was a defender in 2009 and 2010, but after his play this year, I can't say I am in his corner anymore. He has been bad and his salary is killing us.
- Terry Boss is athletic and got some more playing time this year, but wow, he can be brutal at times. I like him as a back-up but don't think he can be considered a starter.
- Pat Noonan filled a role but should be gone.
- Eric Friberg and Brad Evans basically do the same thing, but Friberg is alittle more flashy and Evans is a little more dreamy. I continue to like Brad even though I know all of his warts. I assume he will be left available in the Expansion Draft and wonder if Montreal would indeed take a chance on him.
- Roger is Roger. I love him, but only in limited doses. He is a great part of this team's identity.
- Finally, a few words on some of the other guys. Servando Carrasco is dating Alex Morgan and has to control his bad tackles. David Estrada has shown some flashes of capability. Michael Tetteh is no where close to seeing the pitch. Josh Ford and Bryan Meredith both have upside but we are a few years from knowing their ceiling.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Speak of the Devils
I don't get to watch the Devils on tv, so I asked my boys Jay and Roby there thoughts on the team so far. I hope to make this a semi-regular feature (for all those who care to read this sort of stuff).
1. Are we officially ready to move on without Marty? In the past three years, (not including this year), Brodeur replacements have gone 50-33-4 with a 2.38 goals against while Marty has gone 87-60-12 with a 2.34 goals against. First, Clemmensen 3 years ago and now Hedberg this year and last, make me wonder if it is time for another direction (that being said, I know Hedberg isn't a long term answer)
I think that we are ready to move on from the Brodeur era. For a long time, it seems to me, the fans and team were looking for the next monster goalie that was going to carry the team for the next 15 years. I think this line of thought was erroneous. Obviously we can't rely on Hedberg much longer than this year or the next but the new NHL seems to rely on goalies who are good, that can turn it on when needed, but not necessarily great. There are a few young guys in the system that show some promise but we don't need them to be Brodeur 2.0. We need them to be good (not great) every day because the team that will be built around them will function in a different way.
I think that the team's defense will look much different over the next few years. Adam Larsson, Jon Merrill and Alex Urbom will create a really good blue line, hopefully for years to come. The team has had some really good forechecking moments this year, which comes from Pete DeBoer. There will be some more offensive kind of hockey in NJ, although it will never be confused with the Pens or Caps. Change will happen such that the team can move on without Brodeur, just not in the way people originally envisioned.
2. Thoughts so far on Adam Larrson? I see that he has 0 points through 7 games but I also see that he has the second highest minutes on the team (only behind Kovy).
Larsson is getting a lot of trust with his minutes. I like the way he has been playing and I'm pretty confident the points will come over time. His game will also get better with more confidence, which again, will come over time.
3. Elias has started out nicely. Can he be a 30-35 goal guy this year?
Sure. That will depend on who he plays with. 25-30 might be a little more reasonable, although 30+ is not out of the question.
4. Is Parise the answer at Center? How good does the Kovy-Parise-Palmieri line look?
The Parise-Kovy-RW x line looks good. Lots of energy. Kovy missed a fairly open shot last night. (By the way, I'm getting too old to stay up for an entire west coast game). Maybe Parise at center will last a while, maybe not. I think a secret issue is that the team sucks at RW. Zubrus, Palmieri, Sykora and Clarkson as the top 4 RWs do not inspire confidence. I like Zubrus, but he's also played center sporadicly. I don't think Sykora really brings anything to the team at this time. Clarkson falls down a lot and that sucks. Palmieri is somewhat invisible. One main difference between Kovy and Joe Thornton is that Palmieri has 2 assists playing with Kovy while he would probably have 4 goals and 4 assists playing with Thornton. Too bad.
5. Who has been the biggest surprise so far? biggest disappointment?
The centers have been a disappointment. No Zajac. No Josefson. Henrique hasn't played in 3 games (he looked good last night, though).
6. Thoughts on the team's future after 7 games?
Not a Cup champion right now, but they can play. They are a good team and I think will make the playoffs. Depends on how much they want it. Depends on injuries and what happens when Zajac, Josefson and Brodeur come back.
[In a later email, Jay sent me this link on their prospects. I must say I am excited to someday see Josefson, Larsson and Merril play. Very excited. Also glad to hear that there might be some young talent that will be ready to contribute in a year or two. Developing goalies isn't something the organization has had to do in 15 years]
1. Are we officially ready to move on without Marty? In the past three years, (not including this year), Brodeur replacements have gone 50-33-4 with a 2.38 goals against while Marty has gone 87-60-12 with a 2.34 goals against. First, Clemmensen 3 years ago and now Hedberg this year and last, make me wonder if it is time for another direction (that being said, I know Hedberg isn't a long term answer)
I think that we are ready to move on from the Brodeur era. For a long time, it seems to me, the fans and team were looking for the next monster goalie that was going to carry the team for the next 15 years. I think this line of thought was erroneous. Obviously we can't rely on Hedberg much longer than this year or the next but the new NHL seems to rely on goalies who are good, that can turn it on when needed, but not necessarily great. There are a few young guys in the system that show some promise but we don't need them to be Brodeur 2.0. We need them to be good (not great) every day because the team that will be built around them will function in a different way.
I think that the team's defense will look much different over the next few years. Adam Larsson, Jon Merrill and Alex Urbom will create a really good blue line, hopefully for years to come. The team has had some really good forechecking moments this year, which comes from Pete DeBoer. There will be some more offensive kind of hockey in NJ, although it will never be confused with the Pens or Caps. Change will happen such that the team can move on without Brodeur, just not in the way people originally envisioned.
2. Thoughts so far on Adam Larrson? I see that he has 0 points through 7 games but I also see that he has the second highest minutes on the team (only behind Kovy).
Larsson is getting a lot of trust with his minutes. I like the way he has been playing and I'm pretty confident the points will come over time. His game will also get better with more confidence, which again, will come over time.
3. Elias has started out nicely. Can he be a 30-35 goal guy this year?
Sure. That will depend on who he plays with. 25-30 might be a little more reasonable, although 30+ is not out of the question.
4. Is Parise the answer at Center? How good does the Kovy-Parise-Palmieri line look?
The Parise-Kovy-RW x line looks good. Lots of energy. Kovy missed a fairly open shot last night. (By the way, I'm getting too old to stay up for an entire west coast game). Maybe Parise at center will last a while, maybe not. I think a secret issue is that the team sucks at RW. Zubrus, Palmieri, Sykora and Clarkson as the top 4 RWs do not inspire confidence. I like Zubrus, but he's also played center sporadicly. I don't think Sykora really brings anything to the team at this time. Clarkson falls down a lot and that sucks. Palmieri is somewhat invisible. One main difference between Kovy and Joe Thornton is that Palmieri has 2 assists playing with Kovy while he would probably have 4 goals and 4 assists playing with Thornton. Too bad.
5. Who has been the biggest surprise so far? biggest disappointment?
The centers have been a disappointment. No Zajac. No Josefson. Henrique hasn't played in 3 games (he looked good last night, though).
6. Thoughts on the team's future after 7 games?
Not a Cup champion right now, but they can play. They are a good team and I think will make the playoffs. Depends on how much they want it. Depends on injuries and what happens when Zajac, Josefson and Brodeur come back.
[In a later email, Jay sent me this link on their prospects. I must say I am excited to someday see Josefson, Larsson and Merril play. Very excited. Also glad to hear that there might be some young talent that will be ready to contribute in a year or two. Developing goalies isn't something the organization has had to do in 15 years]
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
25th Anniversary of Buckner
Today is the 25th anniversary of Game 6 of the 1986 World Series. I got hit heavy with some flu last night so I stayed at home today resting...ESPN Classic actually had the game on, so I watched a bit when not sleeping.
The biggest takeaway is how different everything is in 2011 than it was in 1986. That sounds like an obvious comment, but wow, the technology difference is ridiculous. In 1986, if you weren't at the game, the only way to know what was going on live was to watch on tv or listen to the radio. Now you can follow along on the internet, get updates from people at the game via text and Facebook, watch the game live on your hand-held device or watch it on a 70" LCD tv. (I know I am forgetting some) Oh, and turn in mid game and want to know the score, count and inning? Well, you're gonna have to wait because it was not plastered on the screen like it is today. Nope, you have to listen to the announcer or wait for the producer to put up the count in big bold letters towards the bottom of the screen in between pitches.
I certainly felt like a caveman watching the game, but to be honest, it was kind of nice. Today we are inundated with information on a real time basis. Sometimes it is nice to take a trip back to simpler days and realize why we loved baseball so much.
After having said that, here are some other random comments about the game:
The biggest takeaway is how different everything is in 2011 than it was in 1986. That sounds like an obvious comment, but wow, the technology difference is ridiculous. In 1986, if you weren't at the game, the only way to know what was going on live was to watch on tv or listen to the radio. Now you can follow along on the internet, get updates from people at the game via text and Facebook, watch the game live on your hand-held device or watch it on a 70" LCD tv. (I know I am forgetting some) Oh, and turn in mid game and want to know the score, count and inning? Well, you're gonna have to wait because it was not plastered on the screen like it is today. Nope, you have to listen to the announcer or wait for the producer to put up the count in big bold letters towards the bottom of the screen in between pitches.
I certainly felt like a caveman watching the game, but to be honest, it was kind of nice. Today we are inundated with information on a real time basis. Sometimes it is nice to take a trip back to simpler days and realize why we loved baseball so much.
After having said that, here are some other random comments about the game:
- Mustaches. I counted at least 5 for the Red Sox: Boggs, Buckner, Evans, Henderson, Rice. They were all thick and bushy
- Lack of power. The Mets started Lenny Dykstra(1), Wally Backman(2), Mookie Wilson(7) and Rafael Santana(8). In comparisno, had they made the playoffs in 2011 (assuming Carlos Beltran was not traded) they would have hit Jose Reyes, Justin Turner, Angel Pagan and Josh Thole in those same spots. Obviously I would rather have the former lineup, but it's not like they were gonna hit it out of the park.
- Do you know who led the Mets in batting with RISP in 1986? Scroll down for answer.
- You forget what a physical specimen Daryl was until you see him play again. Dude was 6'6" and yet stole 28 bases on the year and hit 27 home runs
- Vin Scully called the game. I must say I very much enjoyed the experience. In just the little that I heard, you could tell that he was a master of his craft. He was very subtle and subdued, but was amazing at painting a picture and getting his points across.
- I love the Mets Bat Boys with the number 86 and their first name on the back. I think Mike did a better job than Paul.
- It's strange watching old games knowing where the players careers would go. Clemens was on the mound and had great powerful stuff. Gooden pitched Game 5 and obviously had amazingly powerful stuff. i wonder who you would have thought would have the better career in 1986...well, we all know where they ended. Clemens won 300+ games and was considered one of the 10 best until the steroid charges hit. Gooden got into some hardcore drugs and was out of the game by 2000. He won 154 games across his first 10 seasons and 40 over his last 5.
- Both teams combined for 5 errors in the game.
- Replica jerseys were not very common in 1986. Instead, Mets fans had those awesome blue satin Starter jackets. They are classic and really a part of my definition of what it means to be a Mets fan.
- Also, a big trend were those blue plastic bag undershirts that some of the guys, most notably 1st base coach bill Robinson wore under their jerseys...anyone have a clue what I am talking about?
- I'm sorry, I know I'm probably a homer, but you cannot equal the atmosphere of Shea Stadium when the team was winning. That crowd in 1986 was amazing.
- I remember Roger McDowell as a goofball, but the guy could pitch. He had crazy stuff, and one of the greater statlines I have seen. In 196 he appeared in 75 games and pitched 128 innings, going 14-9 with 22 saves. NO ONE does that anymore.
- Wade Boggs hit leadoff for the Red Sox. That is strange to me...any idea if it was common?
- Finally, the most sobering thing - it has been 25 years since the Mets won the World Series. I know the Cubs, Mariners and Expos have had longer, but it is starting to feel like I might never seen another in the next 25 years (or in my life, but that is a little tooo dramatic)
Monday, October 24, 2011
Interesting Weekend
It was an interesting weekend in the world of sports (or at least in the world of sports that I care about). There were a lot of different stories that I cared about, but the two biggest ones were of course the mauling of the Huskies and the mauling of Mauro Rosales.
I didn't think the Huskies had a real chance of beating Stanford on the road. I have so much faith in Andrew Luck that I knew he wouldn't let them lose. I figured he would throw for 400 yards and 5 td's. I figured the Huskies only had a shot to win if the game was somewhere in the range of 55-51. I figured the Huskies defense would give up a lot of yards, but wow, that was painful. The Cardinal ran for 440+ yards and the Huskies lost 65-21. It was so bad that Stanford punted once in the game, were 8-12 on 3rd down conversions and averaged 9.3 yards per play. Let me write that again - 9.3 yards per play. That is unthinkable.
I know it's only one game, but it certainly feels like no progress has been made. It is certainly reactionary for me to say that, but since Sarkisian took over we haven't had too mamny days like this. Our offense is really really solid, but as long as our defense is playing this way, we won't be taken seriously. I think we can still finish 8-4, but that would be a bit of a disappointment considering how well Price, Polk and the rest of the offense is playing. Here's hoping the Dawgs rebound at home next week against an Arizona squad that picked up their first conference win of the season this past Thursday.
The other big story to me is the injury to Mauro Rosales. I have to say that the whole situation just pisses me off. I know that Sounders fans are feeling a bit entitled these days, but their is good reason for that: the Sounders are a damn good team. I mean, damn good - multiple trophies good. You don't have to be a rocket scientist however, to realize that they are not as good without Mauro on the field. When he got hurt a few weeks ago, I wasn't overly concerned because I knew there was enough time left in the season for him to get healthy. When I realized who their final opponent was I knew what was going to happen. Sigi had to play Mauro because he needed to regain his fitness and because he wanted the team to get back some of the chemistry they had as little as a few weeks ago. It was the correct move, I just knew it had the potential to blow up. In my book, Chivas is the dirtiest team in MLS and have been so for a few years. I just knew someone would get hurt in the meaningless game and unfortunately it was Mauro. I really hate those effers (maybe even more than Portland) and pray that this one game doesn't ultimately hurt our playoff chances.
Aside from those two stories, here are some other observations:
That's it for now -I'll be back later this week with a Sounders regular season review.
I didn't think the Huskies had a real chance of beating Stanford on the road. I have so much faith in Andrew Luck that I knew he wouldn't let them lose. I figured he would throw for 400 yards and 5 td's. I figured the Huskies only had a shot to win if the game was somewhere in the range of 55-51. I figured the Huskies defense would give up a lot of yards, but wow, that was painful. The Cardinal ran for 440+ yards and the Huskies lost 65-21. It was so bad that Stanford punted once in the game, were 8-12 on 3rd down conversions and averaged 9.3 yards per play. Let me write that again - 9.3 yards per play. That is unthinkable.
I know it's only one game, but it certainly feels like no progress has been made. It is certainly reactionary for me to say that, but since Sarkisian took over we haven't had too mamny days like this. Our offense is really really solid, but as long as our defense is playing this way, we won't be taken seriously. I think we can still finish 8-4, but that would be a bit of a disappointment considering how well Price, Polk and the rest of the offense is playing. Here's hoping the Dawgs rebound at home next week against an Arizona squad that picked up their first conference win of the season this past Thursday.
The other big story to me is the injury to Mauro Rosales. I have to say that the whole situation just pisses me off. I know that Sounders fans are feeling a bit entitled these days, but their is good reason for that: the Sounders are a damn good team. I mean, damn good - multiple trophies good. You don't have to be a rocket scientist however, to realize that they are not as good without Mauro on the field. When he got hurt a few weeks ago, I wasn't overly concerned because I knew there was enough time left in the season for him to get healthy. When I realized who their final opponent was I knew what was going to happen. Sigi had to play Mauro because he needed to regain his fitness and because he wanted the team to get back some of the chemistry they had as little as a few weeks ago. It was the correct move, I just knew it had the potential to blow up. In my book, Chivas is the dirtiest team in MLS and have been so for a few years. I just knew someone would get hurt in the meaningless game and unfortunately it was Mauro. I really hate those effers (maybe even more than Portland) and pray that this one game doesn't ultimately hurt our playoff chances.
Aside from those two stories, here are some other observations:
- I think it is totally apparent who the worst two teams in the NFL are - the Colts and the Dolphins. Shame on the Dolphins for letting Tebow work his magic. Shame on you for adding fuel to the Tebow fire. Shame on you for allowing his legend to grow. Ughhhhh. One the final two drives of regulation, with Denver trailing 15-0, Tebow went 9-13 for 121 yards and 2 td. According to my calculation, up to that point, he was 4-14 for 40 yards. Shame on you, Miami. AND shame on you for going for 2 early in the 4th quarter. Maybe it seemed like the correct move at the time since the score was 12-0, but up to that point, the defense had not given up any points. Have a little confidence in your squad and kick the extra point
Shame on the Colts for just sucking. It is clearly evident how good Peyton Manning is and how much he means to this team. You obviously can't blame Curtis Painter for giving up 62 points, but I just think the team doesn't know how to respond to him. What a huge dropoff between the two....and we are moving closer and closer to the point where the Colts have to choose whether to pick Luck or continue with Manning. - Sorry Mike, but this bullet is all about your teams. I don't know which is worse - giving up 6 goals in soccer and losing to your cross town rivals, or giving up 6 points on the road to a bad team in the NFL and losing. Neither feels good. (Since I am shaming people, shame on the refs for the phantom block in the back call on Leon Washington's return. I'm no Seahawks homer, but that was just bad)
- Somehow my Uncle Greg has made me hate Aaron Rodgers. Seriously, he could just struggle the one week I have to go against him in fantasy. Yuck.
- I was getting all ready for the two biggest games of the year - LSU/Alabama and Oklahoma/OSU and then something happened. Oklahoma lost to Texas Tech. I know the game will still be a damn good one, but it won't mean as much if they are both not undefeated (of course, this is assuming that OSU gets past undefeated Kansas St next week).
- The World Series is tied at 2. Did I get that right? Seriously, I have no idea
- In some news that no one cares about, last week my men's soccer team played the Kitsap Pumas reserve team. The Pumas as a pro team based out of Bremerton, WA and recently won the USL PDL title. The guys were really good, but somehow we held them to 2 goals. This week we played 2 men down for 25 minutes until another player showed up. We were down 3-1 at halftime and then our goalie broke his knee brace and had to leave. I went in goal (now down to 9 players) and somehow my boys scored 3 goals and we walked out with a 4-4 tie.
- I don't think Carson Palmer and the Raiders are that bad, but I do know they passed up a golden opportunity to move to 5-2 before their bye week. The bye comes at the perfect time, however, as it will give Palmer an additional week to get ready and hopefully give Run DMF a week to recover.
- Are the Lions being exposed as frauds? Well, I think they are a good team, but they are not a quality team as you can run on them AND they can't run on you. It will be interesting how the next 5 weeks play out.
- Finally, who the hell is DeMarco Murray and why did he run for 253 yards yesterday? (AND how crazy are fantasy players going to be to pick him up?)
That's it for now -I'll be back later this week with a Sounders regular season review.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Internal Conflict
I was walking through the airport today when I saw some guys wearing green warm-up jackets with fluorescent yellow stripes. First 2 guys, then 5, then about 15. As I walked by one, I saw a Portland Timbers backpack and said to myself, hmmm, I wonder if this is their reserve team or something. I mean, surely it couldn't be their first team. And then I walked by Kenny Cooper and Sal Zizzo. I walked some more and I saw coach John Spencer and owner Merrett Paulson.
Suddenly I didn't know what to do. Generally I act like a 12-year old when it comes to celebrity sightings, especially when those celebrities are athletes. Part of me wanted to go up to one of them and have a chat. I mean, I'm sure they would appreciate being recognized as long as I wasn't invading their space. As a lifelong soccer player, I respect those that can play the game at the highest level. But these weren't just any professional soccer players. ..these were the hated Portland Timbers. There was no way I could go up to any of them to say hi. I dislike them too much to do so. I would be disrespecting not only myself, but the Sounders and all Sounders fans. So I didn't approach them.
But don't think it was an easy decision. I mean these guys do something for a living that I envy. I tried to think if there was anyway I could do it without feeling terrible afterwards. I tried to think if any of them played on the National Team - I could have justified chatting with them if they wore the stars and stripes (like for example, Landycakes), but no dice. No reason to talk to them.
Once I realized that I couldn't chat with them on a friendly basis, I then started to think about antagonizing them. Was I wearing any Sounders stuff or did I have any Sounders stuff? I did! I had my Sounders scarf with me....and then i realized what an ass I would be if I walked part them holding it in the air. So I didn't. Instead, I just looked from afar and called The Wife and J-Will.
I can give you three bits of information.
Suddenly I didn't know what to do. Generally I act like a 12-year old when it comes to celebrity sightings, especially when those celebrities are athletes. Part of me wanted to go up to one of them and have a chat. I mean, I'm sure they would appreciate being recognized as long as I wasn't invading their space. As a lifelong soccer player, I respect those that can play the game at the highest level. But these weren't just any professional soccer players. ..these were the hated Portland Timbers. There was no way I could go up to any of them to say hi. I dislike them too much to do so. I would be disrespecting not only myself, but the Sounders and all Sounders fans. So I didn't approach them.
But don't think it was an easy decision. I mean these guys do something for a living that I envy. I tried to think if there was anyway I could do it without feeling terrible afterwards. I tried to think if any of them played on the National Team - I could have justified chatting with them if they wore the stars and stripes (like for example, Landycakes), but no dice. No reason to talk to them.
Once I realized that I couldn't chat with them on a friendly basis, I then started to think about antagonizing them. Was I wearing any Sounders stuff or did I have any Sounders stuff? I did! I had my Sounders scarf with me....and then i realized what an ass I would be if I walked part them holding it in the air. So I didn't. Instead, I just looked from afar and called The Wife and J-Will.
I can give you three bits of information.
- John Spencer is literally 5'3". Now I know why he has such a large personality.
- Darlington Nagbe and another unknown player were in front of me online at McDonalds. He ordered a Medium Strawberry shake.
- Troy Perkins and Cooper were in front of one of my co-workers on lineat the gift shop. He is a sports fan, but when asked if he could provide me with any info on what they bought, he told he didn't know because he didn't care. Apparently MLS soccer isn't his thing (or he isn't insane like me).
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Tuesday Brain Dump
Last week I was uninspired by the sports world. Luckily I have recovered and am excited by some of the goings-on. Here are a few random thoughts as I make my flight from Seattle to DC.
- By now you have probably seen the post game handshake between Jim Harbaugh and Jim Schwartz (you may have even read different commentary on it) so I am not going to review what happened. instead, I want to look forward and discuss what kind of effect it will have on each team. I have heard both sides of the argument. Tom Jackson felt that each coach lost a little bit of credibility. After all, how can they ask their players to be disciplined, not let the moment get to them and not take stupid penalties when they themselves reacted in the heat of the moment. It makes perfect sense. Jason Whitlock said they are both smug and that Harbaugh and the Niners entered the game with a chip on their shoulders and that the entire league has noticed Schwartz's constant breaking of protocol. Bill Simmons said that Schwartz had to stick up for himself because he is a man. How could he lead a bunch of men in a barbaric, brutal sport if he himself was unwilling to go to battle.
They all make credible points and to be honest, I'm not sure any one of them is correct. In fact, I think it is probably a a combination of each. I think both coaches are brash. I think Harbaugh is an excitable guy and I think he didn't like Schwartz coming into the game. I think he certainly was wrong with how he approached Schwartz after the game. I think schwartz was write to follow after Harbaugh rather than solely complaining in the media. And I think both will need to do a bit of damage control when it comes to their lockerroom. Luckily, it isn't an unfixable problem. Football is an emotional game and each coach should be able to use that moving forward. The pep talks should be able to write themselves. - When I heard the news of Dan Wheldon's untimely death I was shocked, saddened and dumbfounded. I was shocked not only because of the suddenness of his death, but because Wheldon was one of the few stars of the open wheel racing circuit. It simply came out of the blue.
I was saddened for obvious reasons. Wheldon was 33 years old and had a wife and two kids. Plastered over all media outlets was a picture of him with his family (presumably after winning the Indy 500 this year) and I couldn't help but think that is me in 2 years. I can't even fathom having something happen to me or The Wife.
I was dumbfounded because I still don't get the appeal of car racing. Maybe it's just me - maybe I am not wired that way. But I don't need to race a 2-ton metal object to show how much a man I am, or to et an adrenaline high. I am shocked by not only how fast they drive, but how close to each other they drive. Even the slightest mistake can cause a serious wreck. I'm sure that Wheldon's wife always had this day in the back of her mind. I'm sure she loved seeing her husband do something that he loved, but I'm sure she also was scared every day he got in a car. It just seems like a risk that is not worth taking. - It's funny. when the Yanks and Phils were in the playoffs, I was pissed off because I assumed they would steamroll through their opponents and meet again in the World Series. I vowed not to watch or discuss. Now that the Yanks and Phils are out, I am still not watching or discussing because I could care less about either team. I was hoping for a Detroit-Milwaukee series but instead, we have Texas-St Louis. Yuck. I guess you need to be careful what you wish for.
What does piss me off is that the Cards are 4 games from being World Series champs. Somehow, it takes me back to 2006 when the 83-win St Louis Cardinals, beat the best team in the league, the Mets, to make it to the World Series. They had no right being there. While this year's team won 90 games, they benefited from a huge choke by the Braves and slipped into the playoffs. I know they are a solid team, but again, they don't belong there. Stupid Tony LaRussa. - After qualifying for the Quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champiuons League, I said that Sigi HAD to play his reserves. I wanted to see Josh Ford, David Estrada, Michael tetteh, Amadou Sanyang and the rest of the crew. To me, finishing first in the group would be a nice accomplishment and probably help us avoid a Mexican team in the Quarters, but the fatc remains that we will have to beat a Mexican team if we want to win the competition. RSL got lucky last year when all 4 mexican teams were put into the same draw - that won't happen again this year. We will have to beat a Mexican team in March of next year, so why not do what is needed to win the MLS Cup in November.
Now, with the final game of the group stage less than 5 hours away, I am rethinking my original stance. I know I shouldn't be worried, but I am just a little concerned that we might have already peaked. When we were playing 2 games a week we were on a roll - most likely because it helped the team stay in rhythm. We were playing fluid soccer and carrying over to every game. Now after the US Open Cup and with only 1 game a week, we seem to have hit a lull. Some could be psychologcail. Some could be due to some injuries. Whatever the case I want them to get back to the rhythm they had in September. PLaying our starters tonight might just help with that cause.
Monday, October 17, 2011
The Wife Loves Kasey Keller
64,140. That is how many Sounders fans were at Qwest on Saturday night. Ok, maybe 100 of them were Earthquakes fans, but it doesn't matter. That size crowd for a single match (that is, one that is not part of a doubleheader) is simply staggering. Every time I go to a Sounders game I try to realize how lucky we are. It is always an amazing show.
For those of you who don't know, Saturday was special because it was Kasey Keller's last regular season home game. Every fan in attendance was there to honor the man who came home from Europe to captain this team for the first 3 years of it's existence. Unfortunately, one of his biggest fans, The Wife, was unable to make it. She was out of town since Thursday and did not arrive home until 630 Saturday night. With no time to get to the stadium, I had to bring a buddy. It was a lot of fun, but I have to say it wasn't the same without her. Simply put, she LOVES Kasey Keller and sometimes I think she wishes that he was her baby daddy. Anyways, after putting The Incident to bed, she got to watch the game and complied all her thoughts into one email. In my eyes it was good enough to post as is - I just wanted to make sure to give the proper background.
*************
Ok, one final note. They handed out 45,000 Kasey Keller Captain armbands and yet somehow I avoided getting one. Honestly, we did not see anything when we walked into the stadium. Huge props to Irish Mike's wife Terra for giving The Wife her armband. She wore it to bed last night. (kidding...or am I?)
For those of you who don't know, Saturday was special because it was Kasey Keller's last regular season home game. Every fan in attendance was there to honor the man who came home from Europe to captain this team for the first 3 years of it's existence. Unfortunately, one of his biggest fans, The Wife, was unable to make it. She was out of town since Thursday and did not arrive home until 630 Saturday night. With no time to get to the stadium, I had to bring a buddy. It was a lot of fun, but I have to say it wasn't the same without her. Simply put, she LOVES Kasey Keller and sometimes I think she wishes that he was her baby daddy. Anyways, after putting The Incident to bed, she got to watch the game and complied all her thoughts into one email. In my eyes it was good enough to post as is - I just wanted to make sure to give the proper background.
*************
- I agree with Mike about Brad Evans (although is IS still very dreamy.) I don't think he's *bad* per se, I just wish he would fight a little big harder. Run a little bit stronger. Challenge for the ball, not just take a few steps for show and then back off. It seems like he's not playing with any intensity. Like he's trying to convince us all that he is actually playing without doing any real work. Compare that to Mauro Rosales, who comes in for 25 (ish) minutes, and changes the pace of the game entirely. Now, I understand that Rosales was only in for a short time, but I still with Brad would play with a little more vim, because I've SEEN him play that way. And he's good. Even though he was disappointing tonight, he is still VERY dreamy.
- I love Kasey Keller. Hands down (or up, or sideways, or wherever he needs to put them to make the save.) The four consecutive saves he made after Ianni's terrible pass-back were AMAZING. I want to watch them again and again and again. I want it to be my desktop image, screen saver, and phone wall-paper. I want that clip to be the first thing I see in the morning and the last thing I see at night. If we have a boy I'm naming him Kasey.
- 64,000 fans is amazing. It feels amazing to know that the Sounders are at the center of US Soccer right now. We are at a critical time in the development of US soccer as a real, international force. Are we there yet? Certainly not. But we are making progress, and taking the US Open Cup seriously ensures us a spot in CONCACAF for next year which further elevates the status of not only Seattle, but US soccer as a whole.
- Why does Fucito just sometimes seem so unimpressive? Is it inexperience? Lack of skill? Because he certainly tries really hard and often has moments of greatness. I wish he had scored on that nice back-post run in the first half.
- We have Lamar Neagle's autograph in our house. When we first got it, we thought, "Who is this kid?" and then we didn't see him for a year and a half or so. Now, he's a key player for a really good team. Would he have gotten this chance without Zakuani's injury? Probably not. So while no one (NO ONE) wants to see a break like Zakuani's, it has really opened up the field and created future depth for the Sounders.
- Umm...don't forget that the season isn't over. We still have a regular season game left and then play-offs. We certainly can't continue to rely on goals scored in the last 15 minutes. I'd like to see the Sounders figure out how to score an early goal or two as well. It feels really great to have that win, but... we are still fighting for that MLS Cup.
- As I write this I realize two things. One: Apparently, I frequently ask questions and answer them myself. I do it a lot when I am teaching, too, and I think it's very annoying. Two: I find myself mimicking Rob's style. Will I start to look like him someday, too? I hope not. [editor's note: I think I should be flattered by the imitation...]
Ok, one final note. They handed out 45,000 Kasey Keller Captain armbands and yet somehow I avoided getting one. Honestly, we did not see anything when we walked into the stadium. Huge props to Irish Mike's wife Terra for giving The Wife her armband. She wore it to bed last night. (kidding...or am I?)
Friday, October 14, 2011
Wait, What???
The reports have to be a joke, right? There is no way that Conference USA and Mountain West are going to merge for football only and become a 22 team league...right?
That is just insae to think about. I mean, the 16 team Big East basketball conference has a hard time scheduling and those teams play something like 20 league games a year. In football, you play 8 or 9. The scheduling inequality is going to be insane. Not to mention that the league will now span from Hawaii in the West to East Carolina in the East. They have to keep the leagues as separate conferences (or 4 divisions) and allow ECU to play Hawaii only in the championship game, right? Wow. A 22 team league is just nuts to think about.
And yet...somehow it is a brilliant move. The two conferences know that they are going to lose some of their more attractive teams. The Big 12 and Big East are losing their teams to the Pac-12, SEC, ACC and Big 10. They are in survival mode and plan on plucking teams from lesser leagues like C-USA, Mountain West as well as some independents. It is going to happen, so C-USA and the Mountain West decided to launch a preemptive strike. While the remaining members of the Big 12 are unsure what will happen to the league, members of these two leagues know that there will be a league. It might look entirely different in a few years, but with 22 teams, they could lose 10 and still be viable. I think it was a brilliant move.
Ok, so let's speculate a little on who might be gone and who might be staying. If you listen to the rumors, it appears that the Big East will be going after Central Florida, East Carolina, SMU and Houston from C-USA and Boise St and Air Force from MWC. (It seems crazy that the latter four might join a conference called the Big East, but if they all enter together, then again, it could become a national league with two separate divisions.) The Big 12 meanwhile has already swiped TCU and adding SMU and Houston seem like a natural next step.
Assuming those schools leave for greener pastures, that would leave C-USA with 8 teams (Marshall, Memphis, Rice, So. Miss, Tulane, Tulsa, UAB, UTEP) and MWC with 6 teams (Colorado St, Hawaii, New Mexico, San Diego St, UNLV, Wyoming). You could easily move UTEP to the West division and have two 7-team divisions. The reputation may take a hit without Boise St, TCU and BYU (which turned independent last year), but it would certainly be above the Sun Belt and MAC and would arguably be on par with whatever the Big East does (or whatever becomes of the Big 12 if Texas, Tech, Oklahoma and OSU eventually move to the Pac-16).
So yeah, originally it was shocking to read. But after careful consideration, I think this was a smart move (and it allowed me to briefly touch on 15 schools that I normally would not)
That is just insae to think about. I mean, the 16 team Big East basketball conference has a hard time scheduling and those teams play something like 20 league games a year. In football, you play 8 or 9. The scheduling inequality is going to be insane. Not to mention that the league will now span from Hawaii in the West to East Carolina in the East. They have to keep the leagues as separate conferences (or 4 divisions) and allow ECU to play Hawaii only in the championship game, right? Wow. A 22 team league is just nuts to think about.
And yet...somehow it is a brilliant move. The two conferences know that they are going to lose some of their more attractive teams. The Big 12 and Big East are losing their teams to the Pac-12, SEC, ACC and Big 10. They are in survival mode and plan on plucking teams from lesser leagues like C-USA, Mountain West as well as some independents. It is going to happen, so C-USA and the Mountain West decided to launch a preemptive strike. While the remaining members of the Big 12 are unsure what will happen to the league, members of these two leagues know that there will be a league. It might look entirely different in a few years, but with 22 teams, they could lose 10 and still be viable. I think it was a brilliant move.
Ok, so let's speculate a little on who might be gone and who might be staying. If you listen to the rumors, it appears that the Big East will be going after Central Florida, East Carolina, SMU and Houston from C-USA and Boise St and Air Force from MWC. (It seems crazy that the latter four might join a conference called the Big East, but if they all enter together, then again, it could become a national league with two separate divisions.) The Big 12 meanwhile has already swiped TCU and adding SMU and Houston seem like a natural next step.
Assuming those schools leave for greener pastures, that would leave C-USA with 8 teams (Marshall, Memphis, Rice, So. Miss, Tulane, Tulsa, UAB, UTEP) and MWC with 6 teams (Colorado St, Hawaii, New Mexico, San Diego St, UNLV, Wyoming). You could easily move UTEP to the West division and have two 7-team divisions. The reputation may take a hit without Boise St, TCU and BYU (which turned independent last year), but it would certainly be above the Sun Belt and MAC and would arguably be on par with whatever the Big East does (or whatever becomes of the Big 12 if Texas, Tech, Oklahoma and OSU eventually move to the Pac-16).
So yeah, originally it was shocking to read. But after careful consideration, I think this was a smart move (and it allowed me to briefly touch on 15 schools that I normally would not)
Thursday, October 13, 2011
I Got Nothing
I meant to write something the past few days, but the truth is that nothing is exciting me right now. Baseball without the Yanks and Phils to hate on is pretty boring. Oh, and the games are still taking 15 hours to complete. The NFL is great on Sundays, but during the week it's information overload. I don't care to listen to all the injury reports or the analysis. The NBA is not coming back. College football is not any better during the week - even with two games on Thursday night. Oh, and WWE, which as recently as two months ago was on the verge of a extra hot storyline, has blown it so badly that I am thinking about not watching for a few weeks. I won't get into specifics, but the writing has been terrible. They totally blew it.
The only thing that comes close to exciting me is the return of the NHL and of course my Sounders. I have really enjoyed watching the nightly highlight show on the NHL Network, but until I actually get to see the Devils in action, it won't be all that exciting. I love watching Hockey Night in Canada - especially my new Western Conference team, the Calgary Flames - but it's not the Devils. It is sad not being able to watch the Devils.
As for the Sounders, I am just coming down off the high of winning the US Open Cup. I am excited for the game on Saturday, when 60,000 fans will show up to honor Kasey Keller, but it is still a few days away. And the final two games of the regular season really mean nothing in the grand scheme of things besides making sure we are in form. We are 6 points ahead of RSL with two games left and a goal difference 9 better than them. That means we have to lose both games AND not only lose big time but have RSL win big time. It's not going to happen. What also won't happen is us catching the Galaxy for first. I wish the regular season was over so we could get ready for the playoffs. Instead, we have two meaningless games. It's great to see the rave green again, but it's not as exciting as it could be.
The only thing I know is that on a night with baseball, college football and hockey, I watched the reboot of Charlie's Angels. It was cheesy as expected, but a fun watch. The most surprising thing was that Minka Kelly's character was not the lead character, or even the best actress. That honor in my mind goes to Rachel Taylor, who I had never heard of. Looking at her IMDB profile, apparently she was in Grey's Anatomy last season and was the cute computer nerd in the original Transformers movie. Hmmm...who knew? Anyways, I would watch again. AND that is a problem.
The only thing that comes close to exciting me is the return of the NHL and of course my Sounders. I have really enjoyed watching the nightly highlight show on the NHL Network, but until I actually get to see the Devils in action, it won't be all that exciting. I love watching Hockey Night in Canada - especially my new Western Conference team, the Calgary Flames - but it's not the Devils. It is sad not being able to watch the Devils.
As for the Sounders, I am just coming down off the high of winning the US Open Cup. I am excited for the game on Saturday, when 60,000 fans will show up to honor Kasey Keller, but it is still a few days away. And the final two games of the regular season really mean nothing in the grand scheme of things besides making sure we are in form. We are 6 points ahead of RSL with two games left and a goal difference 9 better than them. That means we have to lose both games AND not only lose big time but have RSL win big time. It's not going to happen. What also won't happen is us catching the Galaxy for first. I wish the regular season was over so we could get ready for the playoffs. Instead, we have two meaningless games. It's great to see the rave green again, but it's not as exciting as it could be.
The only thing I know is that on a night with baseball, college football and hockey, I watched the reboot of Charlie's Angels. It was cheesy as expected, but a fun watch. The most surprising thing was that Minka Kelly's character was not the lead character, or even the best actress. That honor in my mind goes to Rachel Taylor, who I had never heard of. Looking at her IMDB profile, apparently she was in Grey's Anatomy last season and was the cute computer nerd in the original Transformers movie. Hmmm...who knew? Anyways, I would watch again. AND that is a problem.
Monday, October 10, 2011
More About the Sounders
Yesterday, Fredy Montero conducted a live online chat with the Seattle Times readers. Three days before Roger Levesque was a guest on the Mason and Steve Kelley podcast. For those of us without an 'In' with the team, both were unique opportunities to find out more about them and the team (well, of course, all the stuff that 'Ask a Sounder' doesn't get to). Here is a summary of what I learned:
From Roger:
-Sigi really values how hard a player is working in practice. As a player, you need to always be improving and working hard or their will be someone ready to pass you on the depth chart.
-Playing so many games is actually a blessing because it means that 20 guys get playing time as compared to 10-15 if there was only 1 game a week
-Tyson Wahl doesn't want to see any teammates after practice. Apparently he has enough of them in practice and on the long road trips. He lives one block from Levesque/Graham/Fucito on Queen Anne Hill. (I think maybe Wahl, a Cal graduate doesn't like Levesque and Graham, Stanford graduates)
-Coins were thrown from the stands in Guatemala. Jaqua got hit. Schmetzer picked them off the pitch for souvenirs.
-He remembers kicking Ozzie the first time he played against him in Charleston. He says Ozzie is a hard worker who can make it in Europe. Losing him would be bad for the team, but would be happy for him.
-After he is finished with soccer, he thinks he will go into the business world (he has an economics degree from Stanford) or go back to school.
-Taylor Graham's gf graduated from Wazzoo.
-The team makes fun of Fucito when he is taking a free kick because he approaches it as if he was a placekicker.
From Montero:
-No insight on the rat tail besides that he likes to switch things up frequently (this amazingly was the first question fielded)
-Non committal to his future
-When he scores, he kisses his wristband which has the same colors as the Colombian flag.
-His favorite players growing up were Ronaldo and Gabriel Batistuta
-He thinks David Ferreira is the best player in MLS
-His favorite goal amazingly was the second goal against Vancouver this year. However, his two best moments over the past three years were scoring the brace in his debut and the 3rd US Open Cup win
-David Estrada is the toughest competition on FIFA12
-David Estrada is also the most underrated player on the team. His work ethic is unbelievable
-He likes to eat spaghetti and chicken before all games
-He and Ozzie are roommates on the road. He is closest to Ozzie, Flaco and Rosales
-The transition to the league was really tough, but he owes a lot to Sigi. The language, style of play and work rate were all areas that Sigi helped with.
-Tyrone Marshall is the toughest defenders in the league. He has always come at Fredy regardless of if he has the ball or not
-His favorite away pitch is JELD-Wen. He LOVES to score there.
-The portrayal of Colombia in The 2 Escobars told only 80% of the story. Times have changed in Colombia.
-His favorite jersey color is the rave green.
-Fans have always been very respectful to him and his family when he is out in public.
-He follows the M's and Seahawks but is waiting for an invitation to the Storm (why he just doesn't go without an invitation is beyond me...it's not like he couldn't get tickets. Does he really care about being a big wig at a WNBA game?)
-He is learning English through classes at the local community college, his friends and girlfriend.
******************
In a totally unrelated note, Josh Meyers has a poll on Seattle Times asking fans whether they will be sad to see the electricity yellow's go (the two year cycle is done after the Monterrey match next week). I know I was hesitant at first, but they certainly have grown on me. Just like the rave green, I associate these jerseys with the team. I for one will be sad to see them go (especially if they replace them with some uglier, you know, like something with bra straps), but I was surprised that 51.0% of those who voted feel the same way.
From Roger:
-Sigi really values how hard a player is working in practice. As a player, you need to always be improving and working hard or their will be someone ready to pass you on the depth chart.
-Playing so many games is actually a blessing because it means that 20 guys get playing time as compared to 10-15 if there was only 1 game a week
-Tyson Wahl doesn't want to see any teammates after practice. Apparently he has enough of them in practice and on the long road trips. He lives one block from Levesque/Graham/Fucito on Queen Anne Hill. (I think maybe Wahl, a Cal graduate doesn't like Levesque and Graham, Stanford graduates)
-Coins were thrown from the stands in Guatemala. Jaqua got hit. Schmetzer picked them off the pitch for souvenirs.
-He remembers kicking Ozzie the first time he played against him in Charleston. He says Ozzie is a hard worker who can make it in Europe. Losing him would be bad for the team, but would be happy for him.
-After he is finished with soccer, he thinks he will go into the business world (he has an economics degree from Stanford) or go back to school.
-Taylor Graham's gf graduated from Wazzoo.
-The team makes fun of Fucito when he is taking a free kick because he approaches it as if he was a placekicker.
From Montero:
-No insight on the rat tail besides that he likes to switch things up frequently (this amazingly was the first question fielded)
-Non committal to his future
-When he scores, he kisses his wristband which has the same colors as the Colombian flag.
-His favorite players growing up were Ronaldo and Gabriel Batistuta
-He thinks David Ferreira is the best player in MLS
-His favorite goal amazingly was the second goal against Vancouver this year. However, his two best moments over the past three years were scoring the brace in his debut and the 3rd US Open Cup win
-David Estrada is the toughest competition on FIFA12
-David Estrada is also the most underrated player on the team. His work ethic is unbelievable
-He likes to eat spaghetti and chicken before all games
-He and Ozzie are roommates on the road. He is closest to Ozzie, Flaco and Rosales
-The transition to the league was really tough, but he owes a lot to Sigi. The language, style of play and work rate were all areas that Sigi helped with.
-Tyrone Marshall is the toughest defenders in the league. He has always come at Fredy regardless of if he has the ball or not
-His favorite away pitch is JELD-Wen. He LOVES to score there.
-The portrayal of Colombia in The 2 Escobars told only 80% of the story. Times have changed in Colombia.
-His favorite jersey color is the rave green.
-Fans have always been very respectful to him and his family when he is out in public.
-He follows the M's and Seahawks but is waiting for an invitation to the Storm (why he just doesn't go without an invitation is beyond me...it's not like he couldn't get tickets. Does he really care about being a big wig at a WNBA game?)
-He is learning English through classes at the local community college, his friends and girlfriend.
******************
In a totally unrelated note, Josh Meyers has a poll on Seattle Times asking fans whether they will be sad to see the electricity yellow's go (the two year cycle is done after the Monterrey match next week). I know I was hesitant at first, but they certainly have grown on me. Just like the rave green, I associate these jerseys with the team. I for one will be sad to see them go (especially if they replace them with some uglier, you know, like something with bra straps), but I was surprised that 51.0% of those who voted feel the same way.
NBA Lockout A Good Thing
Ok, maybe it's not a good thing, but it certainly presents a good opportunity for me.
Tonight, when I heard that David Stern canceled the first two weeks of the NBA season, I was unfazed. At that moment I realized that I don't care about the lockout. I just don't care. I am over being angry - I did that in 1999. Now I am just numb to the whole situation. Bottom line is the owners are greedy and the players are out of touch with reality. They entire system is effed up and I think it will take a prolonged work stoppage to really get the two sides to blow it all up and start again. It the entire season is canceled, I won't be mad.
Sure it's a terrible time for the league to have a work stoppage. For the first time since MJ left in 1998 people care about the league. It's not just that the talent is at an all-time high, but for the first time in decades there is a certifiable villain. Fans tuned in last year not just to watch hoops, but to see the Heat lose. Last year was a monumental year for the league.
And now...all the momentum is done. Again, not ideal, but not overly concerning to me. If anything, it represents a great opportunity. I don't have enough time to watch the NFL, NBA, NHL, college football, college hoops, EPL and MLS. With the NBA away, I can focus all my attention on the Devils, BU hoops, UW hoops and the end of the MLS season.
Really, it's a good thing. If the NBA does come back, then cool - I'll have more to choose from. BUT if it doesn't come back, then I get to devote even more time to my boys. Frankly, I'm looking forward to more time with Zach Parise, Ilya Kovalchuk, Martin Brodeur, Adam Larsson, Mike Muscala, Abdul Gaddy, Keith Price and all the guys in rave green.
Tonight, when I heard that David Stern canceled the first two weeks of the NBA season, I was unfazed. At that moment I realized that I don't care about the lockout. I just don't care. I am over being angry - I did that in 1999. Now I am just numb to the whole situation. Bottom line is the owners are greedy and the players are out of touch with reality. They entire system is effed up and I think it will take a prolonged work stoppage to really get the two sides to blow it all up and start again. It the entire season is canceled, I won't be mad.
Sure it's a terrible time for the league to have a work stoppage. For the first time since MJ left in 1998 people care about the league. It's not just that the talent is at an all-time high, but for the first time in decades there is a certifiable villain. Fans tuned in last year not just to watch hoops, but to see the Heat lose. Last year was a monumental year for the league.
And now...all the momentum is done. Again, not ideal, but not overly concerning to me. If anything, it represents a great opportunity. I don't have enough time to watch the NFL, NBA, NHL, college football, college hoops, EPL and MLS. With the NBA away, I can focus all my attention on the Devils, BU hoops, UW hoops and the end of the MLS season.
Really, it's a good thing. If the NBA does come back, then cool - I'll have more to choose from. BUT if it doesn't come back, then I get to devote even more time to my boys. Frankly, I'm looking forward to more time with Zach Parise, Ilya Kovalchuk, Martin Brodeur, Adam Larsson, Mike Muscala, Abdul Gaddy, Keith Price and all the guys in rave green.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Damn Good Week
I think this past week ranks up there in the upper echelon of great sports weeks. First on Tuesday, I was one of 36k fans to watch the Sounders hoist the US Open Cup trophy for the third year in a row. Then on Thursday, I turned on the Yankees game right in time to watch A-Rod strike out. Seeing the faces of those Yankees fans in stunned silence was priceless. (I just wish Sterling was calling the game so I could have heard the famous "And the Yankees win. Theehehehe Yannkeeeeees win...") Then tonight was the icing on the cake. I watched the Cards hit a triple and double in the first inning off of Roy Halladay but somehow only come away with one run. I figured it wouldn't be enough, but when I turned the game on in the 8th the scoreline was unchanged. I sat nervous as the Phils came up in the 9th...and was as shocked as the Phillies' fans when they went away without a fight. It was a perfect trifecta over the course of 72 hours.
I am in no way trying to gloat. I really am not. I am just happy that I don't have to suffer through all the gloating of Phils and Yanks fan. My team did not finish with a winning record so I am not here to talk shit. I get it, the Phils and Yanks made the playoffs. The Mets didn't. I just know that in the end, none of the 3 teams will be World Series champs in 2011. It is a beautiful consolation prize to an otherwise forgettable baseball year.
I am in no way trying to gloat. I really am not. I am just happy that I don't have to suffer through all the gloating of Phils and Yanks fan. My team did not finish with a winning record so I am not here to talk shit. I get it, the Phils and Yanks made the playoffs. The Mets didn't. I just know that in the end, none of the 3 teams will be World Series champs in 2011. It is a beautiful consolation prize to an otherwise forgettable baseball year.
Random Friday Thoughts
Even though most, if not all, of my attention has gone to the Soudners this week I still have been following the goings on elsewhere in the world of sports. So as I often do, I present a random brain dump of thoughts - this time to help you procrastinate as you look forward to the weekend.
- Terrell Owens retired yesterday...wait, he didn't? It was all just a joke? Either way I don't care. In fact, I think it is really pathetic. His entire career he was a ME-first guy who always loved the media spotlight. That is fine when you're catching 10 touchdowns a year, but now that you can't find a team to play with, it is straight up pathetic. Here's hoping he just goes away.
- Speaking of guys who can't stay out of the spotlight, Brett Favre continues to do everything humanly possible to kill any good will left towards him. In talking about Aaron Rodgers winning the Super Bowl last year, Favre said "I'm going to be honest, I was not surprised. The biggest surprise to me would be that he didn't do it sooner." Listen, I get it. Brett is bitter. He gave a lot of great years to that organization and when they drafted Rodgers he was hurt. It happens anytime someone is brought in as your successor. It is human nature. But to makes these comments after being retired is pathetic (wow, using it to describe both Owens and Favre - who would have thought that 5 years ago?). Brett, just go away, please.
- Donovan McNabb hasn't been terrible this year (save week 1 where he went 7-15 for 39 yards), but it is clearly obvious that it is time for him to be benched for first round draft pick Christian Ponder. I have nothing against Donovan - in fact, I would rather have him as my teams QB than a handful of other guys, but when you're team is sitting at 0-4 AND you have a highly drafted rookie on the bench, you need to pull the trigger. There is no difference in finishing 4-12 with Ponder and 4-12 with McNabb, so why not get the rookie some experience.
- Indy is also sitting at 0-4 and could realistically win only 2-3 games this year if Manning doesn't come back. An interesting subplot is what the team does if they are 2-11 and Manning is ready to come back. I know Manning is the franchise, but if you're management, don't you have to think seriously about keeping him off the field and making a run for Andre Luck? I know it seems weird, but let's all remember where the Packers are now with Rodgers instead of Favre.
- Zach Parise was just named the Devils captain. It was the right move for numerous reasons, but it definitely was a gamble. Parise signed a 1-year deal to stay with the Devils and if the team sucks and they are unable to re-sign him to a long-term deal during the year, they will need to seriously think about trading him. That will not be an easy thing for fans to handle. I mean, you put all this money into Kovy and yet Zach is the best player on the team. You need to find a way to keep him in Jersey (here's hoping wearing the C goes long way)
- Speaking of the NHL, the Devils favorite opponent, Sean Avery just got released and is going over to Europe. The guy sucks so it shouldn't be a big deal, but I think all Devils' fans are smiling this morning. He just seemed to get under Brodeur's skin like no one else. It will be good to have him gone.
- Now that the Yanks are done, I can focus on hating the Rangers. Man I hate John Tortorella. And Lundqvist. And all their other trolls.
- Robin Ventura was just named manager of the Chicago White Sox. Read it here first: this is going to end badly.
- Apparently TCU is now close to joining the Big 12. I think it is a really smart move for them as it re-ignites some of the old school Southwest Conference rivalries with Texas, Tech and Baylor. However, it definitely sucks for the Big East, who continues to get stood up on the dance floor. Their courtship of the Frogs was smart from a competition standpoint, but having a team from Dallas in a conference with the word 'East' in it's named always seemed weird. This is more fitting (especially if they can get SMU to join with them)
- Can the Matthew Stafford - Calvin Johnson connection last all season? Johnson has 8 td's through 4 games, which puts him on pace for 32 for the season. Obviously that won't happen. If I'm a Johnson owner, I think about selling while his value is amazingly high. If he finished with 15 td's that would be a tremendous year, but it also means he finishes with 7 td's over his last 12 games. Not terrible by any stretch, but definitely below his current form. Trade while high. (oh, and who knows if Stafford can stay healthy for the rest of the season?)
- Thanks to Twitter, athletes no longer have to be robots who never say anything interesting. In fact, a lot of athletes are now starting to say dumb things and get (rightly or wrongly) criticized for it. Currently, their is a lot of chatter going on in Sounders circles for what Daniel Hernandez, apparently still bitter over losing to the Sounders twice this year, had to say. "Congrats to Seattle Sounders for winning the StarFire Open, and doing it on the road at CenturtyLink Field!" In a vacuum, it was a funny statement. The fact is that we did have all 4 games at home, 3 of which were at Starfire. But considering his recent history with the club, fans are not happy. My one plea to them - please keep his personal life out of it. Argue with him over his comment, but keep his family out of it.
- Wait, Vancouver just beat RSL 3-0? And they had 20k+ fans on a night when the Canucks starting their season? Not bad. Not good for RSL though who look locked in to the 3 seed. I'm not convinced that having home field advantage means anything for the Sounders, but recent from definitely seems to give us an advantage.
- I've said it before and I'll say it again, Doug Fister has to be the happiest man in baseball. No way he pitches an elimination game for the Mariners' over the course of a decade if he doesn't get traded. Gutsy (hate using that word in relation to sports) job last night by the youngster against the Yanks hitters.
- I think ESPN handled the Hank Williams Jr situation appropriately. I don't want to delve into politics, but comparing Obama to Hitler is indefensible. (I was not and still am not a George W Bush fan, but I also took offense to all those Lyndon LaRouche people comparing him to Hitler). Kudos to ESPN for taking a stand and letting everyone know that this type of ignorant rhetoric will not be tolerated.
- Speaking of ESPN, has anyone watched Dan LeBetard's new show? I haven't seen it, but actually enjoy listening to the Podcast. I'm not sure it is entirely different from PTI and Around the Horn, but the subtleties make it fun to listen to.
- USA-Honduras on Saturday. Another chance to see how well Klinsmann new system is progressing. It is a game we should win, but more important to me right now is seeing something new, something exciting from the team.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
About Last Night...
...Um, yeah it was awesome. I don't really have any words to describe what it feels like seeing 35,000 Sounders fans standing, singing and chanting as our boys lift another trophy. I was once a MetroStars' fan so I appreciate this team and this fan base like few others might. We are living a dream right now.
Before I get to my comments about the game, let me first talk about the suite. Thanks again to my boy Irish Mike - he came through big time. Watching a game in a suite is definitely unlike watching with the rest of the peons on the stands. First, the seats are comfy as all hell. Second, no one is standing up in front of you. Third, it is impossible to get rained on. Fourth, you can watch the replays on the tv OR an entirely different game if you choose. Fifth, there was chips, salsa and beer available inside. Sixth, we had access to our own bathroom. BUT the biggest thing that impressed me was the concession stands available to only those in the suites. It was like a world I had never seen before - the only way you can access them is by having a golden ticket. The food was damn good and the lines were super short. So yeah, very fun. Check out the pics.
Now on to the game. It wasn't very pretty at times (especially when El Flaco and Brad Evans touched the ball), but it was certainly exciting. The Sounders outshot the Fire 27-8 and would have put in at least 4 if not for some athletic saves by Sean Johnson. I started to get a little worried when we weren't able to score in the first 45. From a psyche standpoint, the Fire were able to go into half knowing that the Sounders threw everything at them and they were not only able to counter them but the raucous crowd.
Instead of coming out with confidence, they fell flat on their face. They were flat out garbage and truth be told - we made them play like garbage. We had an amazing 30 seconds of pressure in the 77th minute and when Friberg went to take the corner, Mike predicted a goal. He got it right as Parke won the header and Fredy pounced on the rebound. Qwest went ape shit. Twelve minutes later, Fredy smartly ran to the corner to kill time. When he got triple teamed, he passed to Neagle who then saw Ozzie streaking down the middle of the field. The rest was pure brilliance. Check out the goal for yourself - patience personified. 2-0 GAME OVER.
The celebration that ensued was as expected, a lot of fun. I know it's easy to say that when you are winning, but I just get the sense that they are really tight. You can just see it when when you watch the cup get passed around. Everyone wants to hold it, and everyone is totally willing to give it up. I especially loved when Leo found Stevie Z and reminded everyone that he is still a huge part of this team.
I have no other words, but some video and pictures to offer about the game.
************
Ok, so the win brings a few questions to mind:
1. Does this mean anything? Does anyone care besides us?
I know some fan bases will mock us for caring so much about the competition, especially when we haven't been able to get out of the first round of the MLS Playoffs. My response is this: let's ask Red Bulls fans if they wouldn't mind getting some hardware. They have been around since day 1 and have yet to win any silverware. It might not be as prestigious, but it is the countries oldest soccer competition.
Personally, it means a lot to me because not only do we get to see our boys lift a trophy, but it also means automatic qualification into the Champions League. That is huge.
2. Did we buy our way to the title?
To provide some background, the home side in the US Open Cup is determined by the team that bids the most money to host. After having to go to DC in 2009, the team decided from then on that they would outspend all the others. It is perfectly within in the rules. However, some feel that it is unfair since our ownership has resources that others don't. Simply put, they feel we have unfairly used our resources to get 11 of the last 14 games at home.
I understand the argument, but the fact remains that the club did not break any rules. I think Hanauer deserves tons of credit for the stance they took. From day 1, the organization set a goal of becoming an international force. Hanauer was smart enough to realize that you don't do this by only winning MLS Cup. You don't do this by bringing in David Beckham. No, you do this having your team play in international competitions. If you can be successful, then people from other countries will start to notice. It might only be baby steps, but winning in Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico is making us well known. The easiest way to get to this point was by winning the US Open Cup and ensuring inclusion in the CCL. Sure it would be cool to qualify by winning MLS Cup or the Supporters Shield, but that is a lot more difficult. This has been a smart move.
3. Will this be all for the Sounders this year?
The team hasn't been able to get out of the first round in both 2009 and 2010 (hell, they only scored 1 goal in 4 career playoff games). Will this year be any different? I obviously have no idea. I think any one of LA, RSL or Seattle could and should win. I think on any given day, any of the three teams could win (of course, you could also have a team with a losing record win like in years past), so it comes down to the particular day. However, with the recent form of not only Mauro, but Fredy and Ozzie, anything is possible. The three of them have been AMAZING this past month. I'm not sure which of the three has been best and it's impossible. Throw in that it's Kasey's last hurrah, and this team could step up and take down mighty LA. I think it is really possible.
4. Should we expect a 4th title next year?
I really can't believe that it will happen. Not only will all the teams be out to end their run (I do think MLS team's will start to take it more seriously), but it appears that the format will be changing. According to the Sporting News, not only will all 16 domestic MLS teams qualify in the main bracket, but it appears that the bidding process will be going away. Instead, they will probably institute a random draw. If we are going to win, it will have to be on the road and not in the comfort of Starfire and Qwest. It is definitely going to be harder than these past 3 years.
Before I get to my comments about the game, let me first talk about the suite. Thanks again to my boy Irish Mike - he came through big time. Watching a game in a suite is definitely unlike watching with the rest of the peons on the stands. First, the seats are comfy as all hell. Second, no one is standing up in front of you. Third, it is impossible to get rained on. Fourth, you can watch the replays on the tv OR an entirely different game if you choose. Fifth, there was chips, salsa and beer available inside. Sixth, we had access to our own bathroom. BUT the biggest thing that impressed me was the concession stands available to only those in the suites. It was like a world I had never seen before - the only way you can access them is by having a golden ticket. The food was damn good and the lines were super short. So yeah, very fun. Check out the pics.
Now on to the game. It wasn't very pretty at times (especially when El Flaco and Brad Evans touched the ball), but it was certainly exciting. The Sounders outshot the Fire 27-8 and would have put in at least 4 if not for some athletic saves by Sean Johnson. I started to get a little worried when we weren't able to score in the first 45. From a psyche standpoint, the Fire were able to go into half knowing that the Sounders threw everything at them and they were not only able to counter them but the raucous crowd.
Instead of coming out with confidence, they fell flat on their face. They were flat out garbage and truth be told - we made them play like garbage. We had an amazing 30 seconds of pressure in the 77th minute and when Friberg went to take the corner, Mike predicted a goal. He got it right as Parke won the header and Fredy pounced on the rebound. Qwest went ape shit. Twelve minutes later, Fredy smartly ran to the corner to kill time. When he got triple teamed, he passed to Neagle who then saw Ozzie streaking down the middle of the field. The rest was pure brilliance. Check out the goal for yourself - patience personified. 2-0 GAME OVER.
The celebration that ensued was as expected, a lot of fun. I know it's easy to say that when you are winning, but I just get the sense that they are really tight. You can just see it when when you watch the cup get passed around. Everyone wants to hold it, and everyone is totally willing to give it up. I especially loved when Leo found Stevie Z and reminded everyone that he is still a huge part of this team.
I have no other words, but some video and pictures to offer about the game.
************
Ok, so the win brings a few questions to mind:
1. Does this mean anything? Does anyone care besides us?
I know some fan bases will mock us for caring so much about the competition, especially when we haven't been able to get out of the first round of the MLS Playoffs. My response is this: let's ask Red Bulls fans if they wouldn't mind getting some hardware. They have been around since day 1 and have yet to win any silverware. It might not be as prestigious, but it is the countries oldest soccer competition.
Personally, it means a lot to me because not only do we get to see our boys lift a trophy, but it also means automatic qualification into the Champions League. That is huge.
2. Did we buy our way to the title?
To provide some background, the home side in the US Open Cup is determined by the team that bids the most money to host. After having to go to DC in 2009, the team decided from then on that they would outspend all the others. It is perfectly within in the rules. However, some feel that it is unfair since our ownership has resources that others don't. Simply put, they feel we have unfairly used our resources to get 11 of the last 14 games at home.
I understand the argument, but the fact remains that the club did not break any rules. I think Hanauer deserves tons of credit for the stance they took. From day 1, the organization set a goal of becoming an international force. Hanauer was smart enough to realize that you don't do this by only winning MLS Cup. You don't do this by bringing in David Beckham. No, you do this having your team play in international competitions. If you can be successful, then people from other countries will start to notice. It might only be baby steps, but winning in Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico is making us well known. The easiest way to get to this point was by winning the US Open Cup and ensuring inclusion in the CCL. Sure it would be cool to qualify by winning MLS Cup or the Supporters Shield, but that is a lot more difficult. This has been a smart move.
3. Will this be all for the Sounders this year?
The team hasn't been able to get out of the first round in both 2009 and 2010 (hell, they only scored 1 goal in 4 career playoff games). Will this year be any different? I obviously have no idea. I think any one of LA, RSL or Seattle could and should win. I think on any given day, any of the three teams could win (of course, you could also have a team with a losing record win like in years past), so it comes down to the particular day. However, with the recent form of not only Mauro, but Fredy and Ozzie, anything is possible. The three of them have been AMAZING this past month. I'm not sure which of the three has been best and it's impossible. Throw in that it's Kasey's last hurrah, and this team could step up and take down mighty LA. I think it is really possible.
4. Should we expect a 4th title next year?
I really can't believe that it will happen. Not only will all the teams be out to end their run (I do think MLS team's will start to take it more seriously), but it appears that the format will be changing. According to the Sporting News, not only will all 16 domestic MLS teams qualify in the main bracket, but it appears that the bidding process will be going away. Instead, they will probably institute a random draw. If we are going to win, it will have to be on the road and not in the comfort of Starfire and Qwest. It is definitely going to be harder than these past 3 years.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Feeling Nervous and Excited
Tonight, thanks to the amazing generosity of my boy Irish Mike, I will be watching the Sounders go for their third straight US Open Cup in the comfort of a suite. It will be the first time in my entire life that I will have this honor. Needless to say, I am so incredibly stoked for the match.
BUT and this is a potentially big BUT, I am really really nervous about the game. Let's count the reasons:
My emotions are all over the place. I don't know what to think and feel. I just hope that they get the job done tonight and send us home happy. I would LOVE to see Kasey lift the trophy one last time.
****
On a side note, J-Will, wish you were here kid.
BUT and this is a potentially big BUT, I am really really nervous about the game. Let's count the reasons:
- While I don't think Chicago is necessarily a good team, they are a team that is in great form, going 5-1-3 in their last 9 MLS games (including 3-1-0 since beating Richmond to qualify for the USOC Finals).
- They have nothing to lose and everything to play for. They aren't going to make the playoffs, so this is their MLS Cup Final. They are going to be fired up.
- We might have to start Zach Scott at right back. He won't be able to contain Dom Oduro.
- Everyone in the country is hoping the Sounders lose. No one wants to hear us brag about another trophy. No doubt Klopas is painting us as the bad guys and imploring his guys to silence our crowd and send us home unhappy.
- We have lived a dream these past 3 years. Something bad HAS to happen, right? (or is that just the Mets fan in me...)
My emotions are all over the place. I don't know what to think and feel. I just hope that they get the job done tonight and send us home happy. I would LOVE to see Kasey lift the trophy one last time.
****
On a side note, J-Will, wish you were here kid.
Monday, October 3, 2011
A Lot Has Changed
With no NBA games to televise because of this stupid lockout, NBATV has been broadcasting a lot of "Hardwood Classics." While the currently airing game (Golden St-Washington in the 1975 NBA Finals...yes, the Warriors and Bullets actually played each other in the NBA Finals at one point) won't be shown in this house, I did treat myself to a little late 80's hoops over the weekend. Specifically, I watched a few minutes of the 1986 and 1989 All-Star Games. Obviously the differences between then and now are too numerous to count. You know them. I know them. Together, we could talk for hours (here's a fun game - start talking about the short shorts and see where it takes you).
What I couldn't stop thinking about after turning off the game was the amazing course of events that have led us from 1989 to 2011. I know all professional sports have changed over the past two decades, but I can't think any more so than the NBA. If we told the 1989 All-Stars that the following would happen to their sport, would they believe you?
What I couldn't stop thinking about after turning off the game was the amazing course of events that have led us from 1989 to 2011. I know all professional sports have changed over the past two decades, but I can't think any more so than the NBA. If we told the 1989 All-Stars that the following would happen to their sport, would they believe you?
- The 1987 MVP, who would go on to win the 1989 and 1990 awards, would be diagnosed with HIV in 1991 and subsequently retire
- The best collection of basketball talent ever assembled would compete in the 1992 Olympics and win by an average of 45 points
- The greatest of all-time would win three straight titles from 1992-1994
- The greatest of all-time would retire from the sport for two years and instead play professional minor league baseball
- The greatest of all-time would then return and win three more titles before retiring for the second time
- The league would suffer their first lockout in 1999 and lose half the season
- The team from the countries second leading market would win several more titles in the 2000's thanks to a 7' center and a 6' guard (ok, not much changed there...)
- The greatest of all-time would return for a final time, this time with the Wizards
- The league's darkest moment would occur when a player jumps into the stands and fight some fans. The player would then be suspended for over 60 games
- The league would see a new King enter the league, save a city and then devastate the fan base by leaving to join forces with another top 5 player
- Cities such as Memphis, Toronto, Charlotte and Oklahoma City would each become the home to a professional basketball team. The Sonics would no longer call Seattle their home
- The league's average salary would be $4.8 million a year
- The league would suffer from their second lockout and lose a TBD amount of the season
- Players would start to play overseas, including arguably the best player of the past decade
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)