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Soccer Goals: As Ricardo Clark, Landon Donovan, and Stuart Holden garnered praise for their European moves this offseason, another MLS departure, Herculez Gomez move to Puebla, was overlooked and ignored during the holiday break.

 

Now many are paying attention.

 

Soccer Videos: Hercules debut goal and scores game winner against San Luis

 

 

After scoring his first goal in his second game for Puebla with a scintilating header, observers have taken notice, realizing that Herculez' move to the Mexican Primera Division has been fruitful.

 

Lumping myself in that bunch, those who forgot about his move to Puebla, I realized that Gomez was on the bench, while I was tuning in to observe Edgar Castillo's exploits against Puebla in Jornada 1. In his debut second-half appearance, the former Wizard impressed in 20 minutes of play, almost scoring on several dangerous attacking sequences in a 0-1 defeat. In Jornada 2, the dynamic attacker broke his goal scoring silence, that carried over since his Wizard days, exploiting his aerial prowess and netting the header.

 

Since the beginning of the season, it was evident that the the US Copa America participant belongs down south. He has scored more goals with Puebla than he tallied with the Kansas City Wizards, where he scored one goal in 34 appearances.

 

So, why the differerence? For starters, the former Galaxy standout has moved back to his preferred forward role. Secondly, the Mexican Primera Liga emphasizes the player's technical abilities, which can create multiple goal-scoring opportunities. Despite having received superior service in Mexico compared to the likes of the Wizard's Claudio Lopez and Jack Jewsbury, Gomez offensive attributes have enabled him to thrive early on, boasting a blend of speed, size, technical ability, and aerial prowess, that has tormented opposing defenses on counter attacking sequences and set-piece plays.

 

Hopefully, his move will entice other dual-citizen players with Mexican/American heritage to ply their trade down south, while, also, catching the eye of Mexican Club executives, who would like to diversify their teams by acquiring players with contrasting skill sets.

 

Chivas USA team mates Jonathon Bornstein and Sacha Kljestan comes to mind, when discussing potential prospects, who could transition from MLS to the Mexican Primera Division. The former could be a desirable candidate, because of his dual-citizenship and free-agent status after the conclusion of the 2010 season, while the latter's skill set and passing meshes well with the Mexican League's play, coupled with his imposing stature and free-agent status would make him a viable future candidate . 

 

Having not been very impressed with Herculez Gomez in Kansas City and underperforming for the Colorado Rapids, I am glad to see the US international succeeding in his new home. Perhaps, his play could inspire more clubs to survey potential North American acquisitions.

 

MLS players could learn a different style of play, improving the technical aspects of their game, while offering their own attribtues to the Mexican league. This exchange would be beneficial for both Mexico and the US. Let's hope that the trend continues.

 

What do you think of Gomez' play? Will he continue to excel in Mexico? Which MLS player would you like to see in Mexico? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Herculez Gomez experiences success in new position and league

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Soccer Goals: Edgar Castillo's nationality change to the USMNT has caused major controversy over the past three months. With such a glaring weakness at left back, as Jonathan Bornstein recently played himself out of contentition, the New Mexico native offers an element, that the other left back options have failed to provide: earning consistent playing time in a strong league, speed, attacking prowess, and good distribution. Although I do not advocate or expect that he should be an automatic starter, I do make a case in this recent article, as his inclusion will offer Coach Bradley more versatility on his back line options.

 

These soccer videos feature reactions of Edgar Castillo's inclusion on the USMNT.

 

These soccer videos feature Edgar Castillo's 1v1 dribble penetration.

 

Considered a defensive liability by many, Edgar Castillo has gone on the record stating that he needs to improve his defensive skills and discipline. What has been overlooked in this whole debate is that Castillo can hold possession and create flank imbalance with his speed, coupled with Donovan's attacking accumen. In short, teams will no longer be able to key soley on Landon Donovan, who ploys his trade on the left side and has been void of attacking support.

 

With Castillo able to provide crosses and distribute calmly under pressure, the offense should hold possession better under pressure. With his speed and propensity in the attack, paired with Landon Donovan's attacking qualities on the left wing, opponents must pick their poison: Will they apply high pressure and be vulnerable to the counter attack or will ease their pressure fearing the quick break away? His pace and distribution will offer another element the US can ultilize to exploit opposing defenses.

 

If you would have asked me this question two months ago, I would  have not suggested calling the Tigres defender until the USMNT had qualified for South Africa. But, Jonathan Bornstein's horrible performances has convinced me that Castillo, playing at a poor level is still a better option, as the left back position continues to weaken the US' formation.

 

After watching his play in the Olympic qualifiers, his presence and game changing movements warranted more interest, leaving me disappointed that we did not entice him to the USMNT. However, now he humblely recognizes his recent errors and sincerely wants to represent the USA.  Everyone makes mistakes: he deserves another chance.

 

Do you believe that Bradley will call him to the next camp? Will he earn playing time in the qualifiers? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: Should Edgar Castillo be called in for the October camp?

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Soccer Goals: A litttle bird told me that the USMNT needs left backs. Perhaps, another option emerges from the most unlikely place, Mexico. Who I am speaking of? And, no, I am not thinking of Edgar Castillo, who I believe will be a good option.

 

The answer is Michael Orozco who scored an efficient finish against Chivas de Guadalajara, defeating them 4-0. The left back version, Bocanegra 2.0,  kept it gangster for the American's abroad by scoring the first goal of the weekend. Who will be next?

 

These soccer videos feature Michael Orozco's soccer goals at the 0:48 mark.

 

 

What did you think of his performance? Should receive an invitation in the January camp or upcoming friendlies? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: Michael Orozco scores in 4-0 route of Chivas de Guadalajara

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Soccer Goals: After Jonathan Bornstein set up the initial El Salvador goal in round 7 of CONCACAF qualification, while demonstrating poor touch and distribution, it became even more apparent that the USMNT left back pool is shallower than the local public kiddie pool. Couple the fact that Bornstein never really belonged in the USMNT picture, while Heath Pearce has struggled with club playing time since leaving the Danish league - and who is currently unattached after a last minute deal fell through with Turkish Club Bursaspor and the American defender.

 

 

Now, Coach Bradley is at a crossroads. Does he move Carlos Bocanegra, who is not suited, but adequate, to left back at the international level? Or is it presumable that he could shift either Steve Cherundolo or Jonathan Spector to left back, even though they are not natural left back options. Or, the third option could be Edgar Castillo who recently switched allegiances after Mexico failed to cap tie him after he lost his passport before a friendly against Honduras and was lost in the debacle that saw for coaching changes in 18 months.

 

You can imagine the scenario: Punching in 011 52, the area code and Monterrey number into his cell number as his fingers shake from nervousness and anxiety, Coach Bradley has erased both Pearce and Bornstein's speed dial number and replaced him with the New Mexico native, Edgar Castillo, despite rumblings of poor defensive attributes.

 

Several negatives have permeated the US Soccer circles, suggesting that Edgar Castillo offers plenty offensively, boasting speed galore, good distribution, and crossing. However, his defensive deficiencies could expose the US back line due to his penchant to over commit in the attack, diminutive frame, and lack of defensive discipline.

 

After watching Jonathan Bornstein play his way out of a starting and reserve position, I have reconsidered my position on Edgar Castillo. Yes, he does have his defensive shortcomings, but, on the other hand, Bornstein really never deserved all the playing time that he has received over the past three years. After limiting Lionel Messi in the 2007 Copa America for the duration of 60 minutes, many clamored  that Bornstein was a Messi stopper, limiting the young phenoms offensive opportunities. The myth began to spread: Bernstein was a lock-down defender.  

 

What really transpired that evening was that the coach repositioned the attacking Argentine, shifting him to the right and exploiting the US with his attacking prowess and 1v1 penetration. On two occasions during the game, Bornstein failed to mark his assignment resulting in goals by Crespo and Tevez. The Argentines would cruise easily 4-1.

 

Since 2007 and through their own process of elimination, both Pearce and Bornstein should not receive additional call ups until they can perform on a consistent basis for their club and or unless the other left back options are either injured or out-of-form.

 

With an ability to possess under pressure,  Edgar Castillo offers an element and attribute not very common in the left back position, composed distribution while under pressure. Despite all of his attacking prowess and speed on the flanks, Edgar Castillo will allow the USMNT to hold possession better as the left back position has been the soccer abyss for turnovers and speed bump that has stunted the US' offensive continuity. Previously, I would cringe when a center back squared a pass to the left back or a midfielder would back pass to Bornstein, Beasley, and in some cases Pearce.

 

Although the New Mexico native might not warrant the starting position every game, his speed and technical ability suggests that he will be useful in certain circumstances, if Coach Bradley chooses to spread out teams with wide flank play and crosses into the box. Combining two speedy players on the left flank, such as Landon Donovan and Edgar Castillo, will create space for the forwards and will allow space for runs from the central midfield. Landon Donovan could benefit most from his inclusion as teams, will be unable to key solely on Donovan and must respect Castillo's dangerous and speedy runs.

 

Besides offering speed and good technical ability, the former Santos Laguna defender can provide good service in the form of crosses and passing, a trait which would compliment the right back, Jonathan Spector, who is well known for his crossing and distribution. His versatility, also, allows him to play at left wing, as he demonstrated well in the 2008 U-23 Olympic qualifiers where he scored one goal in three appearance while terrorizing the left flank.

 

At the tender age of 22-years old, Edgar Castillo has played in the Mexican Primera Division for four seasons mostly as a starter, playing with Santos Laguna, America, and Tigres. With few options available at left back, Castillo should receive the call for the October camp against Honduras and Costa Rica. Although I do not believe that it would be wise to start him if the US has yet to qualify for South Africa 2010, but a camp call up will allow the coaching staff to evaluate his worth moving forward.

 

The insistence to call on the same left back prospects will only produce diminishing returns. Coach Bradley, please call him.

 

Do you think Castillo will be an upgrade over Bornstein and PEarce? Is Borstein's defense that much better than Borstein or Pearce? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Making the case - Edgar Castillo

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 Soccer Goals: After the recent hoopla of Mexican Primera Division signings Jesus Padilla (Chivas USA) and Luis Landin (Houston Dynamo) in MLS circles and in soccer forums, one would have thought that the US soccer revolution had taken place. Attacking flair, fancy back heels, and the famous scorpions goals would better influence the league and raise the level of play, traits that have made Mexican soccer technically gifted and fun to watch.

 

These soccer videos feature interviews with Padilla and Coach Preki

 

 

Both coaches stated that their players could rise up and be considered in the top echelon of Major League Soccer. With little impact in their first several games, their performances evoked questions of "Why more Mexican players don't come to MLS?" Let's examine the two players progress and discover why they have experienced a slow start.

 

Considered potentially to be one of the best attacking players for Chivas USA and MLS, Coach Preki stated that Jesus Padilla's attacking arsenal is plentiful, but he needed to work on his positional sense. "He has good attacking instincts and can play in a couple of different positions. He can play on the right and up top. So, that is a good option to have. He is going to be one of the better players if he wants to be" said Preki.

 

With the majority of his playing time at  right wing, the Chivas attacker has looked lost for long stretches during games and uncertain what do when he received the ball. As defenders and midfielders apply pressure during the entire 90 minutes, the former Goat of Guadalajara has struggled with the intensity, speed of play, and tempo. In his initial observations of his squad when he was brought into his first training camp with Chivas USA, he mentioned that the team's fitness was strong and the ball skills were comparable to the Mexico's level.

 

Since Sacha Kljestan has struggled most of the season after a failed transfer to Celtic, Kljestan has regained his swagger, attacking opposing defenders relentlessly, as the Padilla signing suggested that the US international was expandable. It is interesting that Sacha Kljestan has demonstrated a greater willingness to attack players 1v1 than the San Jose native.

 

So, why is Padilla struggling? There are probably a myriad of reasons: Fitness, lack of playing time with former club,Chivas de Guadalajara, confidence, and MLS' super athletic play have contributed to his slow integration and average showings. Against TFC, RSL, and Galaxy, he demonstrated little to warrant the #10 but has shown flashes of technical ability on several different occasions. Wearing the #10 bears great responsibility and demands consistency, will this pressure diminish his creative play? His athleticism and frame bodes well in this physical league. Couple this with his technical ability and attacking instincts, and Padilla could improve into a talented MLS player.

 

The question now remains: Will he integrate before the season concludes as Chivas USA aspires for a strong playoff run?

 Luis "El Escorpion" Landin signs with the Dynamo

After Luis Landin signed a  18-month Designated Player contract to play for the Houston Dynamo -- their first ever DP-signing -- many suggested that he would be the impact player that combined size, technical ability, and strong finishing, while still in the prime of his career. Most noted for his Scorpion goal in the Apertura for Cruz Azul where he scored on an acrobatic set-piece play, the U-23 Mexican international has big shoes to fill.

 

These soccer videos feature Landin signing.

 

 

 

In his first two appearances against the Seattle Sounders and Colorado Rapids, the target forward blended in with the opposing defense, failing to make the impact, which has merited the high-priced DP signings, such as Cuauhtemoc Blanco, Freddie Ljungberg, or Guillermo Barros Schelotto. Although he finishes well in the 18-yard box, his skill set is too similar to that of Brian Ching, crafty, strong hold-up play, and solid finishing. Paired with a fast player that can create space for Landin and chase down his headers, the former Cruz Azul forward would find consolation in this ying-yang approach.

 

Considered one of the deepest and most talented midfields in MLS, the Dynamo midfield will create chances for the 24-year old Mexican.  But, his initial showing has produced a resemblance of an ordinary forward who is slow, passive, and unengaged. Incorporating his skill set and participation will offer another facet to the Dynamo attack.

 

It is my hope that he integrates well with the Dynamo and experience success in MLS. If both Jesus Padilla and Luis Landin succeed in Major League Soccer, additional interest would be garnered from a Mexican and Mexican-American audience and viewership. The Latin community loves its futbol, and their further participation could elevate MLS to another level. Gaining exposure and acceptance from its southern neighbors would benefit MLS both from a marketing and financial perspective.

 

For the Dulio Davino's of the world who tried their fortunes in MLS but never really integrated well, there is Cuauhtemoc Blanco who has been a marketing grand-slam. Mariano Trujillo, Claudio Suarez, and Eduardo Lillingston have provided solid performances in their MLS careers. Perhaps, Luis Landin and Jesus Padilla can raise the bar even higher, opening the door for future Mexican prospects while bringing additional exposure to Major League Soccer.

 

What do you think of their play? Will either player experience a solid finish to the 2009 season? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: Why more Mexicans don't play MLS?

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Soccer Goals: After the big forwards, Altidore and Cooper, starred in last weeks edition of American's Abroad Top Five, the more diminutive and obscure yanks abroad made their impression for their club teams. The recent born-again American, Edgar Castillo stole the show, scoring a magnificent 25-yard volley and game winner.

 

Although many barely know of his existence and that he is American, Jon-Paul Pittman scored his second goal of the season and game winner for Wycombe Wanders in a 2-1 victory over Bristol Rovers in English League One play. Scoring the equalizer for FC Roskilde from a corner kick, Jamil Fearrington and Roskilde prevailed with a last minute game winner to secure the 3-2 victory over Braband IF in Danish League Play.

 

For those of you concerned about Freddy Adu's club situation, fear no more. The 20-year old midfielder secured a one-year loan to Portugal's Belenenses. According to several sources close to SAN, Belenenses coach plans to utilized the creative midfielder for the season. Earning playing time will be his number one priority, as he is set to practice with the team on Tuesday, Sept 1st.

 

Without further Adu, Soccer Addict News presents to you who impressed and did not dress in the American's Abroad Top Five August 25th-31st.

 

Top Five American's Abroad:

1.Edgar Castillo (Tigres-Mexico): After earning an honorable mention last week for creating a tremendous attacking sequence, the New Mexico left back offered a clinical 25-yard volley and game winner against his former team, Santos Laguna. Although his official allegiance change has not been processed by FIFA, it is evident that he understands that he will not just waltz into the USMNT. Recognizing that his defensive skills needed improvement to receive a Coach Bradley invitation, Castillo mentioned that he is working to improve his defensive skills, while he feels that his attacking skills can contribute to the improvement and performance of the USMNT. If he keeps a humble attitude, improves his defense, and continues to score goals in this manner, the former Mexican U-23 should received consideration.

 

These soccer videos features highlights and Castillo's soccer goals against Santos Laguna.

 

 

2. Jon-Paul Pittman (Wycombe Wanderers, English League One): Entering as a substitute and playing for 30 minutes, the Oklahoma native scored the game winning goal and second of the season to give Wycombe Wanderers the 2-1 victory over Bristol Rovers. This soccer videos courtesy of Yanks Abroad Soccer Highlights.

 

3. Charlie Davies (Sochaux FC, France): After securing the penalty that gave Sochaux the game-winner against Monaco and redemption for US teammate Freddy Adu who sat idle at Monaco the whole season on loan, the former Hamarby forward offered an inspired performance, starting and playing 85 minutes. In addition, he was voted to the starting Xl by Maxifut. His club and national team future look bright.

 

 

 

4. Jamil Fearrington (FC Roskilde, Danish League 1): Scoring an equalizer from a corner kick in the 80th minute, Jamil Fearrington inspired his team to a 3-2 victory over Braband IF. The former FC Copenhagen defender hopes to propel his team to promotion to the Danish Superliga.

 

5. Jonathan Spector (West Ham United): After struggling in his 1-2 defeat to Tottenham Hotspurs facing the red-hot and speedy winger, Aaron Lennon,  West Ham United defender recovered nicely, starting and playing 90 minutes. Although the Blackburn Rovers attempted to attack his area on various occasions, he appeared poised and stifled their attacks for the majority of the game, earning the Hammers a 0-0 draw.

 

Watch Blackburn Rovers v West Ham United in Sports  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

 

Honorable Mention: Freddy Adu (Belenenses-Portugal): After many US supporters feared that Freddy Adu would remain at Benefica, relegated to the bench or even worse a reserve role, Benefica and Belenenses agreed to deal that would keep Adu in Lisbon, Portugal. Spending virtually the entire 2008/09 season in the SAN's American's Abroad relegation area, the creative play maker will attempt to impress on the field to earn additional USMNT call ups and earn a Top Five American's Abroad selection. Congratulations Freddy!!!

 

 

Relegation Bound: Players who are sitting or experienced a poor performance.

1. Heath Pearce (unattached): Still waiting for European suitors, the European deadline ends today. If he is unable to secure a deal, the left back will be heading back to the MLS.

 

2. Michael Bradley (Borussia Moenchengladbach, Germany): His coach did not dress him because he did recognize his failures on the field. Will he learn from his coach? Will the lack of playing time affect him during his national team duties?

 

3. DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers, Scottish Premier League): With the US winger unable to secure quality playing time and reports that PSG winger, Jerome Rothen, is headed to Ibrox, Beasley appears to be the odd man out. Approaching the deadline, reports have surfaced that several suitors, FC Twente and Olympiakos have expressed interest. If he does not make the move, his USMNT hopes will dwindle even more.

 

 

What do you think of the perfomances? Will Castillo be called into the next camp in October? Where would you like Heath Pearce to go? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: Americans Abroad August 25-31st - Castillo, Pittman, and Fearington score

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