socceraddictnews.com

 

 

Soccer Goals: After spending four shivering cold days in Fort Lauderdale, compiling draft bios, evaluating team's draft, and writing a very thorough draft article, I lost my document in the internet fray. Poof, it's gone. Oh well, with that in mind, though, I will offer my post grades in a more concentrated form.

 

Soccer videos: 2010 MLS Draft Combine Reactions

 

 

Wheeling and dealing before the draft, the Philadelphia Union picked up two additional first round picks that allowed the team to nab not only the top forward but future depth that, should contribute and potentially yield European ROI (Return on Investment) if they develop. Although it was not highway robbery, it was pretty close to it, witnessing a draft picks of forward Danny Mwanga, Amobi Okugo, Jack McInerney, and Toni Stahl which they secured within the first 17 picks.

 

The Chicago Fire, New York Red Bulls, and San Jose gave their best college hooray but fell short to a Philly draft, that could be considered the best draft since its inception. With out further Adu, Soccer Addict News presents the 2010 MLS Superdraft Team Grades.

 

Philadelphia Union (A++)

After the Seattle Sounders' inaugural season which witnessed astute international acquistions, free agency movement, and frenzy supporters group that produced the best attendance in MLS, the Philadelphia Union would have to make their mark in other capacities not to be overshadowed, one being the draft where they bolstered an already solid player base from the supplemental draft.

 

Forward Danny Mwanga (Oregon St.) is considered to be a starter before the end of the first season, an attacker that boasts speed, skill, and soccer acumen in bunches, who also rejected offers from several top flight French Ligue 1 teams. The 2010 MLS combine MVP, Amobi Okugo, demonstrated that his skill, physical tools, and soccer cerebrum could bring forth a top level professional that will eventually receive European interest. Considered a more long-term prospect, striker Jack McInerney boasts loads of skill, while matching the playing levels of other combine players, who were more seasoned and physically developed.

 

Defensive midfielder, Toni Stahl, considered a top 10 prospect,  dropped to the Son's of Ben in the second round, a player that could slot into a starting position from day one. Benefiting from a strong class and draft moves based on need, play maker Kyle Nakazawa was reunited with assistant coach John Hackworth from his days at the U-17 coaching ranks. U-20 standout, Brian Perk, concluded their wonder draft in the fourth round, a keeper who will be able to develop and mature at his own pace.

 

Value, depth, and potential investment would best describe the Union draft. If either of their first round selections transfer to Europe their draft will be deemed a success.

 

Chicago Fire (A+)

A little bit of luck and fortune rolled their way, when playmaker Corben Bone fell to the Fire at the 13th spot. Nabbing the second best central defender Kwame Watson-Siriboe and active midfielder Drew Yates (a similar playing style resembling Sacha Kljestan) in the second round screams steal, along the lines of internet fraud. Keeper Sean Johnson arrives at the Windy City as a salary cap exemption and provides immense upside. Their draft contained value galore and would have earned the top draft grade if it were not for the Union.

 

New York Red Bulls (A)

With a new GM and foreign coach, it became apparent that the NYRB have begun their focus on the highly technical player. Man-child midfielder, Tony Tchani, impressed both in the College Cup and combine increasing his draft value. Chants of Tony were heard after his selection from the ESC. His skill set, athleticism, and soccer IQ embrace what every MLS team looks for in the draft and should allow him to slot into the central midfield as a starter.

 

Impressing both in the College Cup and draft, the NYRB landed the best left foot in the combine, Austin Da Luz, who can create from both a wing and central position. Many Red Bull supporters hope to erase the memories of turnover-prone left-footed creator,  Jorge Rojas.  Central defender Tim Ream confirms that NYRB are transitioning to a more technical style with his selection. Add dynamic speedster Irving Garcia, a potential darkhorse, to the mix, and Red Bull fan can anticipate an exciting and improved upcoming season.

 

San Jose Earthquakes (A-)

Adressing need and obtaining value is a difficult task but San Jose achieved both in their first two rounds. Defender Ike Opara fell into their lap at the third spot and should be a starter from day one, especially with Jason Hernandez' future in doubt after multiple injuries. High flying and skillful left back prospect, Justin Morrow, impressed during the combine, proving that his defense is solid while his ample attacking skills should translate to the next level. Although not as polished as Kevin Alston, the Notre Dame defender could become a draft steal, boasting similar potential to the bouncy haired Rev right back.

 

Leaving many scratching their head, San Jose selected the first non combine invitee, Steven Beitashour, in the second round but redeemed themselves in the third round with forward Andrew Hoaxie (think Nate Jacqua 2.0).

 

FC Dallas (B+)

Trading off their sixth pick to the Union for $150,000 allocation dollar could have lowered their grade but FC Dallas recovered well with value picks in the later rounds. Polished and versatile defender Zach Loyd can fill multiple positions while boasting deceptive speed, good skill, and a professional work ethic. Forward Andrew Wiedeman will be reunited with best friend central defender Kyle Davis. Although his stock fell after the combine, his second round selection produced great value, as he has been compared to Taylor Twellman. Both Jason Yeisley and Eric Alexander were late round steals considering their upside.

 

Let's not forget that the allocation money acquired will allow the Hoops to secure play maker Lee Nguyen further bolstering their attacking options. Loyd and new Ghana defender Ansah will further solidfy a porous defense that improved immensely in the second half of the season.

 

Real Salt Lake (B)

While the 2009 MLS Champions trade away Clint Mathis to LA Galaxy, the Lakers landed the best pure winger Collen Warner, who could become a starter and give Coach Kreis an added dimension in attack. Left back Justin Davis boasts a technical side that should mesh well with RSL's fluid passing game. Nabbing the third best center back, Chris Schuler in the third round solidifies a strong draft to an already deep squad. Despite the departure of forward Yura Movsisyan, RSL brings back young prospects Raphael Cox, Alex Nimo, and Jean Alexandre to further bolster their depth.

 

Kansas City Wizards (B-)

Changing strategy from acquiring aging South American stars and prospects should receive their fair share of recognition, as I have stated that the Wizards need more team speed especially at the forward position. Forward Teal Burnbury fits this bill, adding this extra dimension his rookie season, while boasting speed, size, skill but inconsistent and suspect finishing. Since Kei Kamara and Josh Wolff create a more athletic and dynamic forward pairing than previous duos, the Wizards seem to be moving in the right direction on this front.

Left back defender Olukorede Aiyegbusi packs a big punch despite his 5'5 frame, proving to be a top-two wing back prospect. His electric runs and tenacious play wreaked havoc on the left flank during the combine. Picking up towering center back Nick Cardenas and right back Ofori Sarkodie in the later rounds suggests value, but when will the Wizards part ways with their glut of youthful wing backs?

 

Colorado Rapids (C+)

Without a first round selection, the Colorado Rapids addressed several needs in forward Andre Akpan and defensive midfielder Ross LaBeaux. That being said, I would have not passed on Justin Morrow in the second round which subsequently lowered their grade a bit. With several key players set to return after injury, the Rapids should field a strong team next season.

 

LA Galaxy (C)

Landing Clint Mathis and Michael Stephens proved sufficient for Coach Bruce Arena as he recently acquired three Brazilian prospects, hoping to fine tune the Galacticos into 2010 MLS Champs.

 

Chivas USA (C)

Deep lying playmaker, Blair Gavin, addresses both depth and need now that Paolo Nagamura is on loan at Mexican club Tigres. Gavin's game resembles that of Claudio Reyna in the fact that he jump starts attacks from a deep position, while maintaining a fluid possession game with his movement and quick passing.

 

Columbus Crew (C-)

Many experts and observers highly criticized the Crew draft for the first round selection of forward Bright Dike. Although his finishing was poor during the college season and combine, his strength, speed and athleticism convinced the Crew to risk this pick on the 6'2 and 221 pound target forward. Will the reward exceed the risk? Play maker Dilly Duka will be allowed to develop gradually in the Yellow and Black system.

 

Late round selections, defender Kwaku Nyameke and clever central midfielder Othaniel Nanez, could make the team if their combine performances match the intensity at the pro level.

 

New England Revolution (D)

Forward Zach Schilawaski fills a need at forward, as his preference for Wake Forest prospects is well documented. Passing on Corben Bone in the following seasons could be painful to watch, if the Wake Forest play maker thrives in the Windy City. Who will become Coach Nicol's diamond in the rough? Left back Seth Sinovic could replace retired Jay Heaps, while Zach Boggs could project into a sleeper pick.

 

DC United (D+)

Curt Onalfo acquired the coveted goal keeper in Troy Perkins but gave up allocation money, Fred, and the seventh pick in the 2010 MLS draft. On a positive note, they signed El Salvador playmaker, Christian Castillo, and Australian forward Danny Allsop in free agency.

 

Seattle Sounders (D)

Reaching for David Estrada suggests that Coach Sigi Schmid really valued his ability, but the Sounders could have traded down on this pick. Villanova midfielder Mike Seamon provided a stellar combine performance and should make the squad. However, the Sounder's draft era has started dissappointingly, excluding the selection of Steve Zakuani. When will the Green and Blue construct a marvelous draft?

 

Houston Dynamo (D)

Coach Kinnear prefers to acquire MLS ready players via trades. Drafting Euan Holden could bear fruit if he decides to settle in with MLS. Forward David Walker could make the squad if he perfoms well in training camp. Forward Dominic Oduro should be included in this year's draft as he has improved under the Dynamo tutelage and was acquired via NYRB.

 

Toronto FC (D-)

Drafting for the future in defender Zachary Herald will pay dividends in the long term. TFC's  best acquisition could resonate from Coach Preki.

 

Who do you believe will stand out in the short term? Who will be the steal of the draft? Are you happy with your team's draft? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: 2010 MLS Superdraft Team Grades - The Union steal the show and draft

.

 

Soccer Goals: The MLS playoffs are here. Excitement are in the cards for the the MLS and marketing geniuses, who hoped for these Western Conference matchups, Galaxy vs Chivas USA and Houston Dynamo vs Seattle Sounders. Boasting a full strength squad of David Beckham and Landon Donovan set to face their inner city rivals in El Super Clasico, while new franchise darlings, Seattle Sounders face the steady and clock-work orange Dynamo, the Westerern Conference playoffs will truly embody "Must see Tv".

 

Soccer Videos: MLS Week 32 and MLS Playoff Predictions

 

 

 

On the Eastern Conference front, the less-than-savory matchups suggest a more anticlimatic outcome with Columbus Crew tabbed as the favorites to reach the MLS Cup finals. New England and Chicago limped into the playoffs, while RSL has demonstrated its road woes all season.

 

Boasting marquee names such as Beckham, Blanco, Donovan, Barros Schelotto, and Ljungberg can only draw further domestic and international attention. To coin a phrase from Boxer Floyd Money Mayweather, "step your game up, son" -- I ask the same question -- which DP will step their game up?

 

Every team that boasts a high profile DP position made the playoffs with the exception of NYRB's Juan Pablo Angel and Toronto FC, who landed midfielder Julian De Guzman for the final four regular season games. If a MLS team acquires the right Designated player, the DP should bring the experience to at least earn a playoff berth. With that being said, MLS General Managers must consider this as a future option both from a performance aspect but also as marketing and exposure tool as well. Let's not forget that there have been several DP busts, so buyer beware.

 

Well, let me jump off my soap box, so I can examine the MLS playoff's first round.

 

Eastern Conference

Columbus Crew vs Real Salt Lake

After securing the Supporters Shield and avancement to knock-out phases of the CCL, the Columbus Crew coasted into the playoffs while on auto pilot: will they be able to turn up their playoff intensity? Without defender Chad Marshall in the starting Xl for the first game, will the Crew neutralize the speedy attack of Robbie Findley and Yura Movsisyan?

 

Even though RSL should play better than a typical eighth seed, their sporadic play will lead to their demise. RSL will struggle to contain the attack of GBS, Rogers, Gaven, and Moreno. The motivated Crew will open their  account early on the road, as they win the aggregate 4-2.

 

Chicago FIre vs New England Revs

As poor as both teams have finished this season, I just don't see either team as a legitimate contender to hoist the MLS Cup. Since the Cuauhtemoc Blanco and McBride bunch have struggled for long stretches of the season, I just don't see them winning out in a scrappy series. Appearing fatigued and disinterested, the Fire have not resembled the championship team that many predicted to win in their sleep. This team's offense struggles to find a flow and chemistry, coupled with numerous injuries on the defensive side, signals an early exit.

 

Despite missing their key figure, Steve Ralston, the Revs still boast a solid defense and experienced keeper. MVP candidate, Shalrie Joseph, should dictate and dominate the midfield play. The Fire will have to play with a goal deficit, ushering the end of the Blanco era. Taking ugly soccer to the next level (the anti-soccer most despised by Coach Hugo Sanchez), the overachieving Revs will grind out the victory, advancing with a  2-1 aggregate.

 

 

Western Conference

La Galaxy vs Chivas USA

Conjuring up the ultimate SUM (Soccer United Marketing) scenario, El Classico features Kljestan, Donovan, and that other guy -- Oh yeah -- David Beckham. Guaranteed to sell out the Home Depot Center and garner attention from the David Beckham supporters, this rival will feature the most heated and competitve battle.

 

Chivas USA, L.A.'s red-haired stepchild, will feature a team willing to grind out the victory. However, success will only bear fruit if Sacha Kljestan maintains his sensational form, performances that landed the Chivas star on the 2008 USMNT radar. Finishing should make the top of Preki's list, as the Chivas' forwards have yet to impress with consistent offensive showings. Galindo, Santos, Lillingston have been more up and down than the Southern California real estate market, but trending more on the down side.

 

When it is all said and done, it won't be what the Chivas do, but rather how the Galaxy administer their three-pronged attack of David Beckham, Edson Buddle, and David Beckham. Let's not forget that the LA defense has improved tremendously and their goalkeeper Ricketts makes more spectacular plays than an And1 mixtape. Combine this offense and defensive superiority, and Donovan and Beckham will prevail over a pesky Chivas side, winning with a 3-2 aggregrate.

 

Seattle Sounders vs Houston Dynamo

Although the Sounders suffered a middle of the season rut, the green and blue embrace the qualities that can grow MLS' credibility, offering passionate supporters, offensive and open play, and record attendance. Considering that they stifled the hottest attack in the league (FC Dallas) while winning their last three season games, the Sounders ride the Tsunami waves of momentum into the playoffs.

 

On the other hand, the Dynamo have played poorly since before the All Star Break. Although their defense has proven solid, their offensive has sputtered since Luis Landin entered the mix and while Ching has struggled to find the goal in the last several weeks. The battle will be won in the midfield where Osvaldo Alonso will face Ricardo Clark and Stuart Holden will organize the attack against Brad Evans. Let's not forget that Freddie Ljungberg receives free roam and will facilitate ball possession in the midfield.

 

In the end, Seattle Sounder's form and team speed will ultimately supplant the Dynamo's defensive prowess. Dominic Kinnear's side will not be able to flip the switch, while Sounders will benefit from their strong home presence to take the early lead. Sounders advance with a 4-2 aggregate.

 

What do you think of the playoff predictions? Which teams will make the MLS Cup final? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss  Soccer Goals and soccer videos: The 2009 MLS Playoff Predictions

.

 

 

Soccer Goals: If you thought that the MLS playoff picture would clear up after week 31, you were wrong. To make matters worse, FC Dallas, TFC, RSL, Chicago Fire, DC United, Colorado Rapids and New England still can dream for the playoffs, as they are mathematically in contention.

 

This weekend's marquee match witnessed the LA Galaxy and Houston Dynamo draw, due to the exploits of Houston defender, Geoff Cameron, who utilized a bicycle kick to save a potential game winning goal. Although arguably loaded with talent, the Dynamo have recently struggled with poor form, as the Galaxy and Chivas have leap frogged them in the standings: The Goats boast a game in hand and are in the drivers seat to the Western Conference title.

 

Coming from behind in the congested-field confines of Community Ball Park in Kansas City, the Sounder's mounted a serious comeback and playoff berth, due in part to DP signee, Freddie Ljungberg, who had his hand in each of the three Sounder's goal.  

 

With seven teams remaining in playoff contention and three spots available, lets examine the favorites to make the playoffs. Barring a catastrophic loss to Chivas USA on Thursday, I believe that the Chicago Fire will limp into the playoffs.

 

With two playoff spots remaining, DC United and FC Dallas (a playoff darkhorse) should secure the final two spots. Let's start by eliminating the other teams. The Rapids travel to RSL who needs a victory and a team that plays well at home. Couple this with the Rapids play and you have at least a draw which would most likely end their playoff hopes. Check, RSL and Rapids are eliminated.

 

Now you might be thinking that TFC enjoys the easy match, but Coach Williams is playing for his job and will likely have his team fired up for the season finale. Take into consideration that TFC has struggled on the road,  and has failed to finish its chances. Although TFC is a very talented team, I see the game ending a 2-2 draw. Check TFC out.

 

The Revs travel to Columbus who will be looking to secure the Supporter's Shield at Crew Stadium. Even if the Crew plays an inexperienced crowd, they should easily secure the victory and the shield. Thus, the Revs will be eliminated.

 

Even though DC United has struggled at the end of the season, they will confront a Wizard team that was eliminated last week but playing at home. Community Ball Park does not bode well for opponents, but DC United boasts the attacking weapons if they trail in the second half. But, facing a goal deficit is unlikely as DC will prevail, winning 2-1.

 

After dismantling Colorado Rapids -- the score should have been 4-1 -- FC Dallas travels to Quest field to face the playoff-bound Seattle Sounders. With health and rest preferred to playoff position, I assume that Coach Sigi Schmid will rest several key players. Favoring FC Dallas comes in two forms: They will be playing on a full and artificial pitch which will speed up play, and secondly Seattle will not bring the same exuberance now that they qualify. Jeff Cunningham, David Ferriera, Atiba Harris, and Jair Benitez will utilize their pace to spread out the Sounders formation. The Hoops win 3-1 and offer a scary round one opponent, as they are arguably the most in-form team, heading into the playoffs.

 

 

Team and Rank	Team	Record	Comment
1.	Columbus Crew	13-6-10	With a win against the Revs, the Supporter Shield will be all theirs. Is the team deeper and more explosive than the 2008 version? I would say so, especially since GBS has received plenty of rest, despite their Champion's League schedule.
2   3	LA Galaxy	11-6-12	Their defense has improved tremendously, but there are still concerns of offensive output. Playing San Jose in Home Depot Center should help their playoff seeding. Can Donovan carry the offensive load?
3.	Seattle Sounders	11-7-11	Their triumphant road victory secured their playoff spot. Will the 12th man in Quest Field give them the extra advantage?
4	Houston Dynamo	12-8-9	Their poor form suggests that they could be targets for an early exit in the playoffs. Could the departure of Kei Kamara hurt the forward duo?
5  7	Chivas USA	13-9-6	As soon as Sacha Kljestan went on his offensive terror, the Goats have been undefeated in six games. Finally, Chivas USA could surprise teams in the playoffs. Their defense's GAA is the lowest in MLS.
6   4	Chicago Fire	10-7-12	Depth issues have been challenged to its fullest extent with the back line suffering from the injury bug. If they do not play their heart out, a motivated Chivas USA squad could steal the three points, since they still have a chance to secure the Western Conference crown.
7.   10	FC Dallas	11-12-6	The hottest MLS team could make the playoffs in a photo finish but with a little help. Although Hyndman was highly criticized at the beginning of the season, one must account for numerous injuries to the back line and goalkeeper. Their attacking soccer has been facilitated by McCarty, Ferreira, and Cunningham.
8	DC United	9-8-12	Blessed with offensive talent, DC United has struggled to maintain the same level as MLS' uppper echelon. Their playoff inclusion will ensure an exciting round one.
9	Colorado Rapids	10-9-10	As good a year as the Rapids have experienced with Cummings and Casey headlining the MLS forward tandems, they will probably fall short. Without a strong #10 in the midfield and suffering several injuries to their starting wingers, this poor form has resulted into a recipe for disaster.
10	Toronto FC	10-10-9	With all their talent at their disposal, TFC might not make the playoffs yet again. Once they can find a consistent forward duo that actually converts their chances, they will find playoff success.
11	New England Revs	10-10-9	Injuries have depleted their side and success. It is time to overhaul the team and build for the future. Ralston and Twellman's longetivity remains a huge question mark. It might be time for a DP signing.
12	Real Salt Late	10-12-7	Many had mocked myself and one other blogger when we stated that RSL would not make the playoffs. I saw RSL first hand this preseason and noticed the team complacency. Several key players will leave this season. How will they rebuild?
13	San Jose Quakes	7-13-9	The Quakes play has improved after the All-Star break, but time has come to eliminate salary-cap heavy players: Huckerby (retirement), Bobby Convey, and Ramiro Corrales. Ryan Johnson and Arturo Alvarez have proven they can carry the offensive load.
14	KC Wizards	8-13-8	Despite their mediocre team depth, the Wizards delayed plans to build a new stadium and mega complex in the Bannister Mall area. Will the new stadium compare to the original? When will KC discover the need for team speed?
15	NYRB	4-9-16	Coach Williams has boosted the team morale, and the anticiaption of Red Bull Park has many excited about the new season. Will NYRB lure Thierry Henry to New Jersey. The team still has to fill numerous holes in the roster. While deepening the roster, the Red Bulls should opt for the college ranks instead of marginal and overpriced South American prospects.

 

What do you think of the rankings? Who will make the playoffs? Who will hoist the MLS Cup? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: MLS Power Rankings Week 31 - Playoff bottle neck

.

 

Soccer Goals: Toronto FC will debut Julian DeGuzman against the LA Galaxy in the Home Depot Center, who lost to FC Dallas 3-6. The Galaxy need to perform well after their poor performance, but TFC will be supercharged with their new DP signee. Chicago vs Columbus will be an excellent match with the Crew poised to secure their second consecutive Supporters Shield.

 

Soccer Videos: MLS Extra Time Episode 30 Act 3

 

Who will win this week's games? Will the Galaxy recover from their devestating loss? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: MLS Extra Time Episode 30 Act 3

.

 

 

Soccer Goals: After looking dead in the water, Chicago Fire overcame a two-goal second-half deficit in front of a home crowd at Toyota Park. Cuauhtemoc Blanco lead the way by earning a suspect penalty call which he converted with ease. Believing that they still had the game in hand, the Colorado Rapids let down their guard, conceding two goals in the final five minutes.

 

The featured match up, Seattle Sounders vs Houston Dynamo did not disappoint with a 1-1 scoreline which featured the debut of Houston's DP signing, Luis Landin. Struggling with the initial pressure and intensity of the game, El Escorpion settled in on his game, offering a glimpse of his talents.

 

Suffering from a real rough stretch of play, the New York Red Bulls finally secured their first victory, snapping their 13 game win-less streak. Juan Pablo Angel netted the game winner when Mac Kandji shot from long distance and the deflection bounced to JPA, who cleanly sent the ball into the net.

 

Superb goals, intense play, and late game winners embodied the happenings in MLS Week 23. Lets take a look at how the MLS Power Rankings Week 23 fared.

 

Team and Rank	Team	Record	Comment
1.   1	Columbus Crew	10-3-9	Taking the weekend off, the Crew travel to NYRB. What happened to the all yellow against Cruz Azul, losing 0-5? Chad Marshall and Eddie Gaven had their hand in all five goals. Their CCL performances make me shamed to support all MLS teams.
2 2	Houston Dyanamo	11-6-7	The Dynamo could have secured the victory but was unable to penetrate the Sounders defense for the second goal. Luis Landin should start off slow but will be the main attraction while Ching and Holden are absent for international competition.
3.  3	Chicago Fire	10-5-8	Playing with a make shift squad devastated by injuries, the Fire's comeback conjure up miracle-esque performances. Losing Bakary Soumare to Bologne will deplete their defense which is already missing, Conde, Segares, and Ward.
4	LA Galaxy	8-4-11	The Galaxy earned a 0-0 draw on the road against DC United. Is this team for real? Will Eskandarian and Buddle return for the playoffs?
5  4	Seattle Sounders	8-6-9	Earning a 1-1 draw was crucial for the Sounders, a team that struggles away from home. If Ljungberg returns healthy and they can play well on the road, the Sounders will evoke fear in the playoffs.
69	Chivas USA	10-7-3	After hearing about how good Jesus Padilla is, Sacha Kljestan conjured up magic, scoring two goals. Losing badly midweek to RSL 0-4 does not help their cause, despite having several games on hand. Padilla has struggled with the tempo and pressure of MLS. Will he make his mark later in the season?
7 10	New England Revolution	8-6-6	With several games in hand, the 1-0 victory over Seatttle has helped their playoff chances. As injured players return, the Revolution could make the playoffs with strong play of Joseph and Ralston. Dube's hat trick was amazing as they defeated RSL 3-1.
86	Colorado Rapids	8-7-6	After conceding three second-half goals, we will see how the Rapids face adversity as they go on the road for five of their last seven games. Cummings will need to pick up the slack with Conor Casey away on national team duty.
9	DC United	6-5-11	They held their ground against the Galaxy, but their defense is proving unstable and unorganized. Conceding two late goals against Toluca in CCL play suggests that the back line is their Achilles heel.
10   8	Toronto FC	8-8-6	Just as TFC starts to build momentum, they go 2008 TFC on us. With such a strong midfield, why are they such a mediocre team? Gerba, White, and Vitti have raised their level of play, but where is the the rest of the team?
11	Real Salt Lake	7-9-6	RSL destroyed Chivas USA midweek. For all those fans that said that RSL was an automatic playoff contender, RSL will miss Robbie Findley during the weekend of Sept 6-10th due to international duty.
12  12	FC Dallas	6-11-5	Losing to the NYRB was unacceptable. Marvin Chavez could see playing time next week as the hoops have a bye week. The U-20 World Cup could deplete the squad.
13   14	San Jose Earthquakes	5-11-5	A last minute 1-0 victory over the Wizard is not convincing enough. The quakes need to build for the future. Cutting high priced commodities should be a priority for next season.
1413	Kansas City Wizards	5-9-6	With games in hand, the Wizards will not make the playoffs. In my 2009 MLS preview, I suggested that the Wizards would not make the playoffs for two reasons: Lack of team speed at forward and wings, recommending they should trade several of their young players who were not seeing action. Although Joelstradamuswasmocked in several scenarios, he has proven his prognostic worth.
15  15	NYRB	3-16-4	Letting them relish in their victory, I am not going to say anything bad. Mac Kandji is the real deal only if he can stay healthy for a whole season. A plus ten goal season awaits.

 

 

Were you impressed with Omar Cummings performance? Who will make the playoffs? Will Mac Kandji experience a break season in 2010? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: MLS Power Rankings Week 23 - Chicago makes a triumphant comeback.

.

 

Soccer Videos: Despite the setback that Brian McBride could miss the remainder of the season with a shoulder injury, the Chicago Fire expressed their frustration on the San Jose Quakes, defeating them 2-0. The new-and-improved Galaxy punished the New York Red Bulls 3-1 while Landon Donovan stole the show, even though Beckham debuted in his first 2009 MLS game.

 

Click Here to view these soccer videos featuring MLS Week 18 Highlights.

 

Trailing for a majority of the game, the Houston Dynamo equalized with a Bobby Boswell, despite the omissions of Brad Davis, Brian Ching and Stuart Holden on the game day roster. DC United punished the Colorado Rapids 3-1, thanks in part to Bryan Namoff, Jamie Moreno, and Luciano Emilio who scored goals to remain in second place.

 

Columbus Crew moved to third place with their 3-1 thrashing of Real Salt Lake. What was even more impressive that they scored without Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Chad Marshall, and Robbie Rogers in the lineup. Picking up the offenisve slack, Jason Garey and Scott Lenhart scored three unanswered goals, dismantling a  RSL defense that struggled for stretches during the game.

 

Free Falling like a Tom Petty song, Chivas USA fell victim to the battered and depleted New England Revolution who scored twice against the Goats winning 2-0. US international midfielder, Sacha Kljestan, did not start due to his recent poor form but did enter the game as a second half sub.

 

What are your thoughts of MLS Week 18? What was your favorite soccer goals? Will the Galaxy make a run at the playoffs? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Videos and soccer goals: Major League Soccer Week 18 Highlights

.