Sunday, February 5, 2012

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Latest domestic and international soccer news

 

 

In the latest soccer news: Chivas USA continues their dominance on the Power Rankings holding steady at number one. However, the Houston Dynamo defeated the Chicago Fire 1-0 and look poised to challenge the goats for the crown in Major League Soccer. Despite playing with a man disadvantage, the Columbus Crew defeated the Kansas City Wizards due to a brilliant two-goal performance from reigning MVP Guillermo Barros Schelotto.

 

Colorado Rapids travelled to Rio Tinto Stadium to face the offensively-challenged Real Salt Lake who boasted a one goal and man advantage. A last minute heart-stopping strike by Omar Cummings earned the Colorado Rapids the point despite an Terry Cooke's injury and Mastroeni and Casey absent due to international duty. Without further Adu, Soccer Addict News presents MLS Power Rankings Week 12. Enjoy!!!!

 

 



Team and Rank

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Team

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Record

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 1.  (1) Chivas USA 8-2-3 No Kljestan and Bornstein, No problem! Eduardo Lillingston seems to be in the right place at the right time. Michael Lahoud stepped up as a starter and as Jesse Marsch's replacement. When will we see the Chivas USA explode offensively?
 2.  (4) Houston Dynamo 6-2-3   If defeating the most talented team in MLS wasn't enough, Coach Kinnear pulled some more strings bringing in Cam Weaver for Chris Wondolowski. After stealing Kei Kamara from them last season, why would San Jose make another deal with the Dynamo? Kei Kamara could be one of the most underrated forwards in MLS.
 3.  2  Chicago Fire  5-2-6  It is understandable that the Fire would struggle with Segares, Blanco and Soumare absent due to international duty. Is Dennis Hamlet maximizing the most of his players? Two consecutive losses do not bode well for their confidence. Are the fire underperforming for their talent?
 4.   (4)  Colorado Rapids  4-2-5  Despite missing Casey and Mastroeni to international duty, the Rapids earned a point against RSl who had a man advantage, but Omar Cummings acute angel strike suggests that he warrants the title of a bona fide MLS striker. Coach Smith proves that his tactics and coaching has issued a new era.
 5.   (9  Columbus Crew  3-2-7  After neutralizing the Wizards in Community Ball Park, Schelotto earned a break-out perfomance scoring two goals and ranking at the top of goals with eight. Once Rogers, Gaven, and Ekpo decide to carry their midfield weight, the Crew will provide an greater dynamic attack. Consider that Brian Carrol, Will Hesmer, and Frankie Hejduk will return from injury suggests a recipe for a repeat. Can they continue their eight game undefeated streak?
 6.    (5)  DC United  4-2-7  DC United defeated the horrid NYRB 2-0 on Thursday. This season's turn around proves that a change in a philosopy and a good draft can change the season. Could Santino Quaranta and Chris Pontius receive a call up for the Gold Cup?
 7.  (3)  Seattle Sounders  4-3-5 The Sounders hit the wall several weeks ago, and every expansion franchise suffers throughout the season. Could Fredy Montero be overrated after his excellent start? Freddie Ljungberg is a joy to watch. and Jacqua has shown that great flair and skill for a target forward.
  8. 11  New England Revolution  4-3-4  Taylor Twellman's presence has lifted the Revs and allowed them to establish their strong spine. This team lacks the depth of form Revs teams. Could Nicol make his move in the summer transfer period?
  9.   4  Toronto FC  4-5-4  With several key international players returning and recent trades to acquire Ali Gerba and Nick Garcia, TFC will curry the roster for the remainder of the season. Dichio needs to remain in the starting Xl.
 10.  (8)  KC Wizards  4-5-4  Losing to the Crew 2-0 with a man advantage suggests that Curt Onalfo must deal some of his players for a solid forward. It appears that their hot streak was an aberration. With a 2-2-2 home record, KC has underachieved all season. What happened to Davy Arnaud's long distance strikes? 
 11    13 LA Galaxy   2-1-9  Yes, the LA Galaxy have only lost one game, but they have only managed two victories. Keeper Ricketts has earned the team MVP awards up to this point. With Beckham and Donovan returning, could LA make a playoff run?
   12   RSL  3-6-3  RSL finally scored goal from a Yura Movsisyan strike that caught the keeper off guard. Fabian Espindola provide good dribble penetration, but the Rapids defense was solid all night. Coach Kreis continues to experience sleepless nights as RSL sputters offensively. FC Dallas is knocking at the door wanting to move up the MLS ladder.
 13.  14  FC Dallas 2-6-4  FC Dallas appeared to be in the driver seat facing San Jose but conceded goals in normal Hoops fashion. Kenny Cooper's late game goal offerd hope to a season that has been plagued with injuries, lack of discipline, and poor offensive form. Can the Hoops make a run? Probably not, but their youth movement has paid dividends in Brek Shea and Anthony Wallace. 
 14.   15  San Jose Earthquakes  2-7-3  Arturo Alvarez continues to show his precision striking. The quakes traded away Cam Weaver for Chris Wondolowski. Nick Garcia moves to TFC for draft picks. This season's performance did not warrant his hefty salary. If this was any other league, they would be relegated already.
 15.  13  NY Red Bulls  2-9-3  Nine losses in 14 games means that Coach Osario will be looking for a new job. What happened to the team with so much promise? The only reason I watch the NYRB is to watch Kandji and Juan Pablo Angel.

 

 

The Revs, Galaxy, TFC and the Wizards could have all been placed in any of the 8-11th positions. Out of those teams, New England and TFC  offer the most dynamic teams and offer decent depth. After the 7th position, the teams weaken considerably.  

 

 

Do you agree with the rankings? Will Dynamo seize the number one spot? Who will win the golden boot?

 

Included are blogs that discuss Latest Soccer News: SAN MLS Power Rankings Week 12 - Houston Dynamo and Columbus move up

 

Latest Soccer News: Major League Soccer Final Kick Week 12

Posted by Joel Shirey On June - 9 - 2009

 

 

In the latest soccer news: Major League Soccer proved once again that predictability takes a back seat to the craziness that taken place in the past few weeks. Chicago Fire lost their second consecutive game agains the orange-hot Dynamo. Edson Buddle finished off TFC with a late-game finish proving that when healthy and receiving playing time Buddle proves to be a handfull for opposing defenses.

 

This soccer video features highlights of Major League Soccer Week 12.

 

 

With a man down on the road against Real Salt Lake, the Colorado Rapids and Omar Cummings hit an excellent late game winner as the RSL continue to struggle in the beginning of the season. Although the games did not display great open play, the races for playoffs spots look up in the air with several teams closing ground.

 

What was your favorite game? Who was the best player of the week? Who will make a run before the All Star game. Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Latest Soccer News: Major League Soccer Final Kick Week 12

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In the latest soccer news: Appearing to have control of the game and on their way to another 3 points, Chivas USA suffered an agonizing finale to the game as they conceded a late game goal to Patrick Nyarko and suffered from a poor penalty call late in stoppage time. The errant call sums up the majority of the refereeing taking place this season. Although I agree that McBride was pushed a little bit by Mariano Trujillo, the action did not warrant a call especially since the ball was played way over his head. That call cost Chivas USA a point and reflects poorly on MLS.

 

This Soccer video features highlights and coaches reactions.

 

 

It is understandable that McBride persuaded the referee to make the call, and this behaviour is commonplace in the game. However, if Major League Soccer wants to grow the sports stateside by converting new fans, they must also realize that many regard that type of behaviour unsportmans like. Many critics suggest that faking fouls and injuries cheapens the game.

 

The USA favors sports that respect sportsmanship and shuns winning a game at all costs when it includes cutting corners or doing so in a poor manner. Performance on the field dictates everything in the fans eyes. Only the sport can grow if MLS addresses these issues. The referee ruined a good ending to the game.

 

Should Chivas USA have won the game? Was the last minute call errant? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs discuss Latest Soccer News: Chivas USA fall to the Chicago Fire 3-2 on a late game penalty

Latest Soccer News: Chivas USA equalizes with a Lillingston goal

Posted by Joel Shirey On May - 28 - 2009

 

 

In the latest soccer news: After giving up a 2-0 lead against DC United, Chivas USA looked determined to score and win the game dominating the first half of play but unable to capitalize with a goal. In the 56th minute, Claudio Lopez played spoiler hitting an excellent set piece goal in the far corner. His goal and the Wizards first 20 minutes of the second half hinted that KC might steal the three points.

 

This soccer video features higlights of the 1-1 draw Chivas vs KC.

 

 

However, Chivas USA rebounded nicely from  Eduardo Lillingston's sensational goal scored in the 64th minute providing an inspirational comeback. Although KC Wizard suffered from the ejection of Josh Wolff and Santiago Hirsig, the Kansas City Wizards sustained the attacking onslaught of Chivas USA who were unable to score the winning goal, despite experiencing a two-man advantage.

 

During the majority of the game, the Chivas dominated play providing great movement off the ball and offering an organized defensive line. In the second half, the Wizards play suggested the tables would turn but we're unable to maintain their dominance for 20 minutes when Chivas USA re assumed their touch on the game finishing the game strong.

 

From a USMNT supporters perspective, Sacha Kljestan suffered from a hard tackle where he disappeared from the game due to his nagging injury. At halftime, he was replaced by the other Sacha, Sacha Victorine. It will be interesting to see if Kljestan plays on Thursday against the Fire. How will his injury and poor MLS play affect his status with the USMNT? His inclusion or exclusion will indicate how Coach Bob Bradley rates him heading into two difficult qualifiers.

 

Should Chivas USA have won the game? Was the Wolff red card too harsh? Should Hirsig have been sent off earlier for his strong challenge? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss  Latest Soccer News: Chivas USA equalizes with a Lillingston goal

 

 

 

In the latest soccer news: Our friend at MLS bring to you what is going on in the world of Major League Soccer. Extra Time added Jason The Producer giving the show another perspective. I hope that you enjoy. Don't forget the Chivas USA vs Chicago Fire Game is tonight.

 

This soccer video features Extra Time Episode 16 ACT 1&2.

 

 

Did you like the Episodes? Who is your favorite on the show? Where will you watch the Fire vs Chivas USA game? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Latest Soccer News: Extra Time discusses Week 10 and other Major League Soccer news

 

 

 

 

 

In the latest soccer news: Fifth to eighth place could be interchanged without any objections, and one could make a case for any of the teams. Colorado and Houston received higher grades due to their strong defensive production. Although have demonstrated offensive deficiencies, their organization and ability to grind out results bodes well for them heading towards the second half of the season.

 

The Fire, Sounders, DC United, and Chivas USA are the cream of the crop and have proven their worth. Without further Adu, Soccer Addict News presents MLS Power Rankings Week 9. Enjoy!!!!

 

Team and Rank

 

 

 

 

Team

 

 

 

 

Record

 

 

 

 

Comment

 

 

 

 

 1.  (1)

 Chivas USA

 7-1-2  Chivas USA should have closed out the game, but give credit to DC United for an inspired comeback. DC United could have stolen all three points.
   2.   (2)

 Chicago Fire

 3-0-6 The Chicago Fire are fortunate that Barrett and Vitti were unable to finish their chances. Chris Rolfe made another case for a starting position, and McBride leads the league with six goals, one against TFC. 
  3.  (3)

 Seattle Sounders

 4-2-3  Seattle should have closed out FC Dallas in the first half, but let them hang around. Zuakani continues to make an impact. Many will disagree with their ranking, but their defense is much better than DC United's.
  4.     (6)  DC United  3-1-6  DC United's comeback against Chivas USA was special, but defensive concerns still exist. Offensively, DC United boast numerous attacking options. With Fred and Christian Gomez on the bench, no lead is safe against them. 
 5.   (8)

Colorado Rapids 

 3-2-3  Colorado should have closed out this game against a battered and bruised Revs side. The Rapids continue to grind out results under Coach Smith. Conor Casey's header defied logic.
  6.  (8)

 Houston Dynamor

3-2-3   Houston should have kicked the NYRB while they were down. The defense will continue to keep them in games. When will the offensive production compare to their defensive status?
 7.  (10)

 Kansas City Wizards

 4-4-2  Defeating RSL at Rio Tinto Stadium is a difficult task in itself. Keeping a clean shit and playing in high altitude is another. The team chemistry and passing is paying dividends. Josh Wolff is on top of the World with six goals this season and two against RSL.
 8.   (9)  Toronto FC  3-3-4  Toronto FC must take advantage of their scoring chances. Fundamentals and finishing should be the theme in TFC camp this week. This team possesses great attacking talent but suffers from goalitis.
  9.  (7)

 Real Salt Lake

3-5-1   With exception to the six game output against KC, RSL would have a -5 goal differential. Their scoring woes have lead to five losses and a dip in performance. Could the Back-flipping Espindola create a spark?
   !0.   (5)

 Columbus Crew

1-2-6   Like Tom Petty said "The Columbus Crew are Free falling". It is bad enough that they lost in the final minutes but to the LA Galaxy makes it even worse. Will someone step up their game other than GBS? Another devestating result could break the back of the Crew
 11.  12  NYRB 2-5-3   NYRB showed heart against the Houston Dynamo stealing a point playing a man down for 60 minutes. Mac Kandji keeps you on the edge of your seat with electrifying moves. Albert Celades appears to be the difference maker for the midfield.
 12. 6

 New England Revs

 2-2-4  New England Revs should feel fortunate to have earned one point against the Revs. Shalrie Joseph at forward? I am not sure about that tactical move, but it is certain that Coach Nicol is praying Taylor Twellman returns soon.
13.    15  LA Galaxy  1-1-7  Weren't the La Galaxy fun to watch last season? Happy Birthday to Eddie Lewis: We enjoyed watching your goal and hearing the announcer sing to you. I think that I am starting to miss antics and tactics of Ruud Gulitt. LOL At least the games were fun.
 14.  14  FC Dallas  1-6-2  FC Dallas capitalized on the Sounder's poor finishing. Brek Shea and Bruno Guarda stepped up their game. Coach Hyndman might start experimenting with his youngsters.
 14.   13

 San Jose Quakes

 1-5-2  San Jose needs the rest and practice this week. The future does not look bright as Cornell Glenn might return to MLS wearing Black and Blue.

 

 

What are your thoughts of the MLS Power Rankings Week 9? Do you disagree? Agree? Who do you consider the best team?

 

Included are blogs that discuss Latest Soccer News: Major League Soccer Power Rankings Week 9  - Chivas USA remains on top