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Soccer Goals: It appeared that playoff advancement were in the cards for the Columbus Crew as Guillermo Barros Schelotto scored two consecutive goals in the first half to regain the 2-1 aggregate lead against RSL. That is until the tides turned in RSL's favor with a Javier Morales' 37th minute score and a late stoppage time Robbie Findley penalty kick to bring a 3-2 aggregate score. A Frankie Hejduk foul and error before a set piece kick, which involved taking down Fabian Espindola like a rodeo wrangler, gave RSL moment for the second half.

 

In a smart tactical decision by Jason Kreis, opting to continue to attack the wounded 2008 MLS Cup champs, RSL began to turn up the offensive pressure, maintaining possession and sending sensible counter attacks to unbalance the yellow and black. While the constant Crew attacks diminshed, as the ball reached the six-yard box, the frustration and pressure began to amount.

 

In a tactical substitution of Yura Movsysian, which would pay immediate dividends,  the Crew spent most of their time pursuing the speedy duo of Findley and Movsysian, a tandem that created space, drew fouls, and facilitated possession. The former champs finally weakened under the pressure when playmaker Andy Williams scored on a set piece kick that would not be touched by either side. In a symbolic gesture, the Jamaican international kissed his wedding ring to honor his wife, who is currently under going treatment for a bone marrow condition. It was defining moment for RSL, who limped into the playoffs after a fortuitous Week 32, where every thing went their way to secure a playoff spot.

 

Despite deserving to win this series, another MLS black-eye emerged due to the sketchy refereeing that took place which left doubt about the outcome. The ref missed two hand ball calls on RSL, one of which would have resulted in a penalty kick, the other would have been called in front of the 18-yard box. These missed calls could have evened the playing field and have changed momentum on the Crew's behalf. In addition, it appeared that the ref was allowing defender Jamison Olave push players who had their back to the ball. One reason why he was granted this physical advantage points to forward Jaime Moreno's diving antics, which witnessed Moreno's trickery as the defenders issued light contact. Diving is a cheap way to try to win the game, a ploy that was not looked on kindly by this referee on this cold night, definitely playing into RSL's hands.

 

Not all is doom and gloom, though. This final playoff leg was extremely exciting and reminds us of the reason that the playoffs are entertaining for the fans. The Crew should hang their hat high with the strong season that they had experienced, winning the Supporters Shield. If you would have told me that the Crew were going to win in such a convincing fashion without GBS for a period of six weeks, I would have probably told you that I would have a better chance winning the powerball. The Crew proved their resilience and depth by maintaining a high level with Frankie Hejduk, Chad Marshall, Will Hesmer, and GBS injured for stretches during the season. If I would have been Coach Rober Warchyza, Robbie Rogers would have earned the start, as midfielder Ekpo struggled with the rythym of the game as a starter.

 

Looking forward to the next round, Real Salt Lake boasts an attack and a solid defense to make the MLS Cup. Although playing road games is not their forte, could this 2009 edition be similar to the 2008 NYRB. Playmaker Andy Williams, Javier Morales, and Robbie Findley have stepped up their games the past month and should be commended for their efforts. If RSL continues its hot streak, anything is possible.

 

I just want more playoff games like last night, exciting and passionate. Keep it up.

 

What did you think of RSL's play? Will they be able to reach the MLS Cup finals? What were your thoughts on the referee? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Stunned Crew eliminated in a 3-2 RSL victory

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Soccer Goals: Before the U-17 World Cup, many US supporters and media expressed high hopes for the U-17 squad that finished second in group E. For those of you heart broken for the early exit agaisnt the Azurrini, there are many positives and negatives to take from the U-17's performances.

 

For the first time in the U-17's history (or as far back as I can remember), the US out possessed their counterparts during the four game span.  The newly implemented attacking style created a lion share of the possession, while creating numerous scoring chances, which were squandered in wasteful fashion. Exiting the touranment prematurely can be attributed to the Ren and Stimpy finishing. Simply, the US could not finish their chances.

 

Having been outplayed in the first twenty minutes of the game by savvy passing and solid defense, the US received their own luck in the form of a hand ball, unfortunately bouncing towards the defenders arm. Forward Jack McInerney, devoid of his strong finishing all tournament, struck a low, predictable and telegraphed volley that was easily scooped up by the Italian keeper.

 

The tide and momentum would change eight minutes later, when Azurri forward Berretta would score to give the Italians a 1-0 lead. Turning up the offensive heat, the Italians began to move the ball with grace, while ping-ponging shots for a long spell at keeper Earl Edwards. Although the US resembled a side ready to concede another goal before halftime, the US defense held steadfast, entering halftime with a 1-0 deficit.

 

Continuing his streak of poor finishing forward McInerney pegged the ball off the crossbar in the 47th minute, after Stefan Jerome created a cross from dribble penetration and break-away speed. Competely frustrated and tormented from their finishing, midfielder Nick Palodichuk inspired his side with a score off a set piece header for the equalizer.

 

However, the persistent Italians never swayed, as Pietro Iemello scored the game winner off a 20-yard wonder allowed by a hesistant US defense noy willing to close down space. The Italians would transform into their defensive version of Fort Knox for the remainder of the game, thwarting several offensive sequences.

 

Producing several deadly scoring chances, the US could not capitalize on their ball possession and attacking prowess. Victor Chavez added to the US' poor finishing reputation by missing a close range poach which would have equalized.

 

In the end, the Italians deserved to advance, utilzing a strong defense and benefit from the numerous turnovers resulting in potent counter attacks. Despite missing numerous scoring chances, the red, white, and blue exhibited the ability to possess and create numerous attacking opportunities. Their passing panache was evident all tournament and even garnered praise from the most cynnical of bloggers.

 

This U-17 side will be recognized for its possession game and technical prowess but most notably for its poor finishing.

 

Player Grades

Earl Edwards, 6: made an excellent second half save to keep the US within one goal. Both goals were virtually impossible to stop. His distribution continues to impress.

 

Zachary Herold, 4: It appears that fatigue and bad touch finally took its toll against the speedy right back, who produced a sub par performance. Several errant passes lead to swift Italian counter attacks.

 

Eriq Zavaleta, 4.5: Ball watching, lack of communication, and the Italians clinical finishing ultimately unraveled the central duo. He should have been more deadly on US set pieces.

 

Jared Watts, 4: produced a stinker of a game, allowing free runners in space and failing to address open markers. Although the central pairing played well during the group stage, this tandem should have played better against the Azurrini.

 

Tyler Polak, 6: did not experience the same attacking sequences that Herold did on the right. But, Polak did a good job to cover the back post and ignite several offensive sequences.  Simply, he was the best US defender in the tournament.

 

Alex Shinksy, 6: After almost wearing down his cleats in the group phase with endless running, the diminutive winger fatigued early in the second half. Beating defenders one v one created space to operate, but his teammates offered little support in the final third.

 

Nick Palodichuk, 6.5: Besides scoring the lone US goal, the midfielder patrolled centrally thwarting the Italian attack. His technical side impressed more than the heralded Marlon Duran but must stay more engaged throughout the match.

 

Marlon Duran, 4.5: Praised for his technical abilities and pitbull demeanor, the central midfielders suspect passing and range really allowed teams to swiftly counter the US. His conditioning and recovery speed do not embody qualities of a top level international.

 

Luis Gil, 6.5: Started the game in a haze but settled in well during the second half. Unfortunately, his skilled play and creativty were not utilized, as his teammates did not offer the proper support. His game will assimilate well at the professional level.

 

Stefan Jerome, 4.5: Just when Jerome makes a daunting run down the flank to create space, he squanders the opportunity with a poor touch, cross or finish. Although he has exhibited moments of flair, it seems that Coach Cabrera should have opted for either Sarle or Craven in his place.

 

Jack McInerney, 4.5: Perhaps witnessing his CONCACAF exploits created false expectations, but his play warranted little praise in this campaign. His penalty shot summed up his play over four games. Yes, he did score two goals, but his touch during hold-up play was attrocious. At the next level, he needs to play as a withdrawn forward or a midfielder.

 

Coach Cabrera, 5.5: His team produced an improved passing game against the Italians, but his players fatigued earlier than usual. Subs should have been brought in earlier in the second half.

 

Subs

 Dominick Sarle, 5: Created several chances with spirited and speedy play, but his crossing and passing needed to be better.

 

Victor Chavez, 4.5: Missed another golden opportunity to equalize in the final minutes. 

 

Juan Agudelo, 6: experienced a poor touch on first attempt but would never look back. Creating two good opportunties with spectacular dribble penetration and speed, the Red Bull Academy prospect impacted the game in a positive manner.

 

Are you disappointed with the US' performance? Will these players experience strong pro careers? What did you think of Cabrera's tactics and coaching? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Italy ends the US' U-17 World Cup hopes with a 2-1 victory - Player grades

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Soccer Goals: The highly offensive-touted US U-17 squad advances thanks in part to a Jack McInerney tap-in goal in the 38th minute, sending the US to face the organized Italians on Wednesday. Although their possession game has garnered praise in many circles, the poor finishing has many scratching their heads, as the US has scored a total of three goals in three games and despite squandering numerous scoring chances.

 

What allowed the US to advance was its solid defending and goalkeeping, which took a severe hit in the first 35 minutes against a 10-man Spanish side that exhibited its superior finishing and tactical acumen.

 

Forward to game three against the United Arab Emirates, and the US defense built a fortress that their opponents could not pass.

 

While dominating the majority of the run of play, the US possessed the ball as if they were a world super power. Numerous scoring chances proved frustrating, as they squandered numerous scoring chances in the final third.

 

One reason for this drop in form can be attributed to the slump of blazing CONCACAF qualifying form, forward Jack McInerney, who struggled with the speed of the game, while his touch and decision continue to stifle his offensive effectiveness. Although he scored the game winner, it is apparent that the newly proclaimed US assassin has lost his scope for the target; his former precision helped him score from long range, provide accuracy and nose for goal.

 

McInerney should not shoulder all the blame either. Alex Shinsky, Stefan Jerome, and Luis Gil wasted several opportunities in the final third, thwarting a barrage of potential goals.  When will the US' chemistry and training pay dividends on the attacking end? Against the Emirates, they controlled possession and created numerous chances, but fell short in terms of finishing.

 

In some cases, it seems that the young Americans need to "keep it stupid simple" (kiss), since many of their attacks are interrupted by unnecessary plays and extra touches, such as dummy fakes, showboating, and casual runs for 50/50 challenged balls. Although their attacking prowess and skills are admirable,  it is important to remember the goal in hand, score goals.

 

If the US hopes to defeat Italy, they must improve drastically in the finishing department, while maintaining a solid defensive approach. Italy will boast a strong and organized back line that only conceded one goal during the group phase. Hoping for and exploiting the opportune counter attack will lead to the US' demise. A continuance of poor finishing will secure the US an early arribaderchi.

 

With the tournament ousting perennial favorites, Brazil and Holland, anything is possible. In order to realize their immense potential, the young red, white, and blue must produce a complete game. A win over the highly favored Italians could build the confidence to go very far in the tournament.

 

Player Grades

Earl Edwards, 6.5: Besides offering several timely saves, the athletic keeper maintained a strong mental side as the US dominated possession, leaving him unused for stretches of the game.

 

Zachary Herald, 6.5: Continues to perform at a high level, providing offensive support while limiting the opponents attacking sequences. Ever since he slotted into right back, the speedy defender appears more comfortable and has produced for his coach.

 

Eriq Zavaleta, 6: thwarted the Arab Emirates' attack with his solid aerially play and timely defensive anticipation. The organized trap has worked to perfection as the opposition had few break-away moments.

 

Jared Watts, 6.5: Has recovered well from his first half during the Spain debacle, meshing well with Zavaleta. His distribution continues to be impressive.

 

Tyler Polak, 7: Besides neutralizing virtually every attack his way, the US left back impresses once again, providing superb distribution, support in the attack, and menacing overlapping runs. After the three game performance, he earns the most consistent award for group stage play.

 

Alex Shinsky, 7.5: Is it a bird or a plane? No, it's winger Alex Shinsky flying down the wing, providing hustle and dangerous dribble penetration. Offering another blood, sweat and tears performance, the diminutive winger creates scoring opportunities with a never say die attitude. Although he has found success with his speed and penetrating runs, he must improve on his crossing and finishing in the box. It appears that he discovered a rhythm and has improved in each of his performances.

 

Nick Palodichuck, 6: has settled in the defensive midfielder role with consistency and strong work rate. His deflected shot resulted in the game winning goal.

 

Marlon Duran, 4.5: Suffered from numerous errant passes, casual work rate, and lack of production. Tired legs became evident late in the first half, as Duran's play began to fade. Perhaps, it is time to sit him on the bench and slot Gil centrally, while Carlos Martinez patrols the right wing.

 

Luis Gil, 6: has his hand (or foot in this case) on almost every chance. He must continue attack defenders and absorb pressure while releasing the ball for an open teammate. The score would have been much higher, had he finished two solid scoring opportunities.

 

Stefan Jerome, 6: His focused performance produced an improved outcome after his first game. His speed proved to be an asset as he exploited the right flank. My only complaint was that he began to play "too cute" with the ball, when simple play was sufficient. Once Coach Cabrera modified the formation closely resembling 4-1-4-1, Jerome, deployed more as a winger than a forward, began to utilize his speed to create more space for the midfield. His dribble penetration unsettled the back line all game.

 

Jack McInerney, 5.5: Although he scored the game winner,  the US' star forward struggled from  poor touch, clouded decision making, and slow reaction to the speed of play. When will the talented striker snap out of his funk? Or was CONCACAF qualifying an aberration?

 

Wilmer Cabrera, 6.5: has improved the defensive organization tremendously, minimized the passing turnovers, and has instilled better offensive patience. However, he must form a better starting Xl against the stingy defensive-minded Italians. Against Italy, I would suggest slotting Luis Gil centrally and playing either Carlos Martinez or Stefan Jerome at right wing to create more space. If he opts for Jerome on the wing, I would slot Andrew Craven at the second forward, where he can use his speed and persistence to unravel the Italian back line.

 

Subs

William Packwood, 5:experienced little impact as Palodichuk's replacement. His off-the-ball movement demonstrated little activity as the tired Duran surpassed his work rate.

 

Dominick Sarle, 6: In 16 minutes, the speedster offered daunting runs and good energy to the US attack.

 

Juan Agudelo, NR: Played five minutes.

 

Who was your MOTM? Will Coach Cabrera field the same starting Xl? Will the US advance against Italy? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: US U-17s advance with a 1-0 victory over United Arab Emirates - Player Grades

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