socceraddictnews.com

 

Soccer Goals: As I work my way up the US soccer totem pole of prestige and fame, I offer my votes for the MLS Awards, but, in this case, mine don't count, because my ballot has yet to arrive from New York . However, I persever and continue to analyze the important 2009 MLS figures.

 

Soccer Videos: Top 10 MLS Goals

 

 

 

Since many players have made their case for these esteemed awards, only one standout from each category will be crowned with "x" award,  so I will include a top five to honor those who deserved recognition for their efforts.

 

MLS MVP, the most difficult award to chose, came down to three players: Guiller Barros Schelotto, Landon Donovan, and Shalrie Joseph. Although all three players impacted their teams and the game in their own way, Shalrie Joseph continues to prove that he is the most underrated player in the game. While winning numerous tackles in midfield, offering the probing pass to split the defense, or slotting in as forward to ignite the attack, Joseph did it all and then some. Besides leading the team with eight goals and eight assists, the Revolution were simply better with him in the game.  GBS and Donovan made their case offering excellent campaigns, but Joseph should finally earn the recognition that he deserves, sending his team to their eighth consecutive playoffs.

 

Let's take a look at the Six MLS Awards and who impressed in 2009.

 

MVP

1. Shalrie Joseph

2. Landon Donovan

3. Guillermo Barros Schelotto

4. Jeff Cunningham

5. Fredy Montero

Note: With 15 goals scored in 16 games to finish out the season, Jeff Cunningham deserved to make the top five, adding eight assists and resurrecting a Hoop's team that was dead in the water in July. Fredy Montero garnered the spotlight at the beginning the season, faded in the middle and played strong at the conclusion. Could this talented forward move to Europe in January?

 

Defender of The Year

1. Chad Marshall

2. Wilmar Conde

3. Geoff Cameron

4. Omar Gonzalez

5. Darrius Barnes

Note: Chad Marshall has proven that he is a beast in the East and the best in the west. But, seriously, his field presence changes the complexity of the game, while also adding an offensive threat on set pieces. With all the distractions and injuries (even a halftime rumble or two), Wilmar Conde continues to manage the Fire backline, while earning the MLS title of "best defensive distributor". Offering complete versatility and playing in multiple positions, which might have hurt his award chances, Geoff Cameron experienced a break-out season as the man-in-the-middle, impressing with athletic play and composure in the back line.  Rookie's Omar Gonzalez and Darrius Barnes earn their marks with consistent play, raising expectations for incoming rookie defenders.

 

MLS Newcomer of the Year

1.  Donovan Ricketts

2. David Ferreira

3. Fredy Montero

4. Freddie Ljungberg

5. Jhon Kennedy Hurtado

Note: Without Donovan Ricketts, the Galaxy would have never made the playoffs, reducing their goals allowed by 30 goals. Ricketts should also thank his defense and midfield for the improvement. Although struggling at the beginning of the season with the physical nature of the game, David Ferreira adapted to the MLS rigors and brought FC Dallas to playoff contention by scoring eight goals and seven assists. Fredy Montero took MLS by storm with his barage of goals, totaling 12 goals, while Jhon Kennedy Hurtado secured the back line and qualification for the 2009 MLS playoffs. Ljungberg inspired the Sounder's attack with his creative play and could be the Sounders MVP.

 

Rookie of the Year

1.  Omar Gonzalez

2. Rodney Wallace

3. Steve Zakuani

4. Darrius Barnes

5. Kevin Alston

Note: Securing and improving the worst back line in 2008 would not be easy, but Omar Gonzalez brought the defensive reinforcements, that the Galaxy needed to secure the Western Conference crown. His recent performances have landed him on both Bradley and Mexico's radar: Who will get to him first? Edging out his teammate, Chris Pontius who experienced and excellent rookie campaign as well, one must remember that Rodney  Wallace slotted in at both wing back positions and throughout the midfield, impressing with versatiltiy. Besides starting 25 out of 28 games, he also scored three goals and three assists. If he receives his US passport and decides to represent the USA, he could help solidify a left back position in desperate need of an upgrade.

Terrorizing opposing defenses with his 1v1 dribbling and speed, Steve Zakuani lived up to the hype, scoring four goals and four assists, while contributing to countless Sounder attacks. At my first Combine, I discovered the sleeper in the draft (so did Steve Nicol), Darrius Barnes, who started at the center back position from day one. What puzzles me even more is that he was taken in the third round at the 40th pick. I had him rated as highly as Omar Gonzalez -- perhaps the MLS coaches and scouts should have read my combine ratings lol. The speedy Revs wing back, Steve Alston, continued to make Steve Nicol look like a genius with this pick rarley offering a wrong step.

It has became apparent that the US college ranks have produced tremendous talent over the past few years. MLS should stick with this formula for development from the collegiate ranks. Let's hope that they do not forget to compensate their young players for their accomplishments.

 

Coach Of The Year

1. Bruce Arena

2. Sigi Schmid

3. Robert Warzycha

Note: Coach Arena edged out Sigi based on his defensive improvement, but it was a close race. Although the Crew started out poorly, Coach Warzycha built depth, winning games in Champions League play without GBS, Marshall, and Hejduk. Steve Nicol should receive recognition for making the playoffs with over half his starters missing due to injury.

 

Goalkeeper of the Year

1. Donovan Ricketts

2. Zach Thorton

3. Casey Keller

Note: Without Ricketts the Galaxy might not have won the Western Conference crown, Zach Thorton's career recreated itself with a strong performance, which was directly attributed to losing 30 pounds in the offseason. Casey Keller helped created leadership and great saves with his experience.

 

What do you think of the awards? Do you agree that Joseph is the MVP? Who was your Rookie of the Year? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: My Top Five MLS Awards

.