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In the latest soccer news: Despite not receiving the accolades of a Bruce Arena, Dominic Kinnear, or a Stevie Nicol, Chivas USA coach Preki continues to prove to his doubters and critics that he is one of the top coaches in MLS. His ability to evaluate talent and plug in players to his system has provided Chivas USA with consistant success for the past three years. Although Chivas USA has crashed and burned in the first round of the 2007 and 2008 playoffs, the team's accomplishments cannot be overlooked considering that they have suffered from the injury bug for most of Preki's tenure. In 2008, Preki overcame injuries by altering his roster 30 of the 32 games still able to qualify for the playoffs.

 

This soccer video features highlights Chivas USA vs Sounders.

 

 

With the injury bug attempting to plague Chivas USA again, Preki's side prevailed winning 2-0 against America's team, the Seattle Sounders, with a James Riley own goal and Chukwudi Chijindu's goal in the 84th minute. The most impressive performance came from the Chivas USA defense preventing the Sounders from scoring a goal despite Montero's inclusion and Ljungberg's accurate passing. Carey Talley and Shavar Thomas blanketed and smothered the Sounder's preferred offenisve options limiting their continuity. 

 

Three major factors seemed to limit Seattle's offensive continuity: the change in lineup, Keller's absence, and the natural surface. With Brad Evan's not playing centrally and moving to the wing, the Sounders appeared to miss the flank speed that made them so dangerous against their first three opponents. Evans did not look as comfortable on the wing, and the Sounders lacked the width and flank play that created space for Montero and Jacqua up front. Perhaps, Ljungberg could slide to the right flank allowing Evans to assume his central position which would provide the extra defensive presence needed. One thing is for certain that Coach Schmid needs to find the right formula and formation to end their two game losing streak.

 

Casey Keller's presence provides calmness and organization for the Sounders: he has yet to concede a goal while protecting the goal. The Sounder's defense has only allowed three goals all season and should continue to prove to be one of the strongest MLS defenses. Besides missing Keller's presence and leadership, the Sounders do not resemble the same team on natural surface. On synthetic surfaces, the Sounders  produced a more dynamic offensive element where width, familiarity to synthetic turf, and speed of play were utilized to their advantage. Adjusting their play to natural surfaces will be key to their success on the road, and adjustments will be imperative as they search for their first win on natural surfaces.

 

When Chivas USA returns to a healthy roster, it will be interesting to predict what will be their strongest lineup. Meanwhile, Chivas USA must earn as many points as possible to allow Preki to tinker with his lineup to prepare for the playoffs.

 

Were you impressed by Chivas' USA performance? Will the Sounders rebound from their past two disappointments? What is the Sounders best lineup and formation? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Chivas USA defeats the Sounders 2-0 winning honors of Best in the West and the Latest Soccer News

 

 

 

 

Major League Soccer delivered excitement this week with its' slate of games starting with Chivas USA vs Seattle Sounders match up to determine the best in the Western Conference. After the result, is there any doubt who is the Best in the West? Coach Preki deserves some street cred after his Chivas USA team defeated the Sounders, America's team and the Dallas Cowboys of Major League Soccer. Coach Preki is proving that talent is just as available in So Cal or surrounding areas as much as Western Africa for example. Hey Preki, just to let you know - 15th and Columbus 7-9 pm - you might find a few hidden jems there.

 

Conor Casey was given an early Christmas gift and the opportunity to retain his quest for the golden boot but was denied a penalty kick by 41 year old goal keeper, Pat Onstadt. Kenny Cooper scored two goals bringing him even with Casey. Cooper's perfomance early in the season has caused concern for his potential move to Europe. His performance was supposed to be improved from last year's performance, but KC failed to capitalize on several opportunities that made him a soccer addict favorite. If he can rediscover his form, Kenny Cooper could surpass last year's stats and resume.

 

 

Team and Rank	Team	Record	Comment
1.  (4)	Chivas USA	4-0-1	Although not the most talented roster in MLS, Chivas USA boasts the deepest and most reliable one in MLS. Nagamura out, don't worry slide Kljestan centrally. Perhaps, if Preki is in a bind, he will opt to move Eskandarian to center back? I am just kidding, but you get the point. Once all the pieces to the puzzle return from injury, Chivas USA will be a scary opponent.
2.   (1)	Chicago Fire	2-0-3	The Fire lost their status as the deepest team in MLS, but still retain the title of the most talented. Well Rested and clever as ever, Blanco wowed fans with his bunny hop and his incisive passing. What happened to the Fire defense that resembled a fortress in 2008. Tim Ward has caught my eye for his versatility and skill on the ball and should remain with the Fire.
3.  (3)	Seattle Sounders	3-2	The Sounders stay in the top three because they boast a talented group. Montero struggled and shanked an early game opportunity. Ljungberg played well centrally offering his vision, but Evans should not be playing on the wing. What will be the best Starting Xl for Coach Schmid? The Sounders appear much more dangerous on a synthetic surface.
4. (4)	New England Revs	2-0-2	The Revs continue to roll without Reis and Twellman. Brad Knighton continues to prove that Coach Nichol evaluates prospects as well as anyone in the MLS. With the insertion of Steve Ralston, the Revs boast a more dynamic offense. Could this be the Revs year with the Crew and Fire appearing shaky defensively.
5.   (5)	Columbus Crew	0-2-3	Don't write off the Crew just yet. The next few games will prove if the Crew are ready to reassume their title of Giants of the MLS.
6.     (11)	DC United	1-1-3	After watching DC United hanging with a strong Revs team, it is apparent that DC United is a head of schedule on their rebuilding project. They have given up late game goals to the Galaxy and RSL, but their team focuses more on the defensive side of the ball. What a difference Ben Olsen makes when he is healthy.
7.  (6)	RSL	2-2	RSL were exploited on Saturday by the NYRB , and Mac Kandji thought Nat Borchers was one of his play toys demonstrating his version of the MLS And1 mix tape. The midfield opted to play direct and were out-hustled for most of the match.With Fabian Espindola returning to bolster their offense, will RSL remain a favorite in the West as many have predicted.
8.   (7)	Colorado Rapids	2-2-1	The Rapids remain organized and played a solid match, but the Ching header was the difference. When will Coach Smith realize that Terry Cooke is a key compentent to their offense on the right wing? He earned 12 assists last season which was 3rd in the MLS. Conor Casey could have been the hero and leader in goals scored but was denied by Pat Onstadt.
9.  (10)	Houston Dynamo	1-2-2	The Dynamo passed the ball quite well and threatned the Rapids who always play compact and organized. The loss of De Rosario of Jacqua will be a detriment to the Dynamo playoffs hopes. How old Pat Onstadt? He says that he is 41, but I am not sure about that after witnessing his penalty kick save on Conor Casey. MLS might want to test him again or I will have what he is having for breakfast. LOL
10.  (8)	KC Wizards	2-2-1	The Wizards late game heroics offered great entertainment value to a game that was one-sided for the first 70 minutes. The Wizards play well offenively when they are trailing; the TFC home opener. Trailing the majority of the games will not guarentee a playoff spot. Claudia Lopez is determined to earn this year's salary and make up for 2008 with an early season effort.
11.   (9)	Toronto FC	1-2-2	What has happened to TFC's Central Midfield? FC Dallas is not that bad, but Guevarra and Robinson are not getting the job done. TFC was fortunate that the game was not a blow out due to FC Dallas' normal lapses of concentration. TFC could have been marked down more, but they boast a strong team to recover from this set back. Ibrahim proves that he deserves to start on the left flank. Will he be called-up for the U-20 World Cup 2009?
12.  (13)	NYRB	1-2-2	The NYRB, the Jeckle and Hyde of the MLS, demonstrated why many rated them very high in the preseason. Despite having Jorge Rojas in the starting line up, the inclusion of Stammler and Conway offers a significant upgrade in experience and contribution. Kandji's moves were sick resulting in a goal and an assist. His majic trick on Nat Borchers makes many interested to watch the Red Bulls again. Goldthwaite earned MOTM with an excellent bicycle kick save and formidable defense. With another convincing win, the NYRB could jump as high as top five. Will Juan Pablo Angel heat up now that he is on the score sheet?
13.  (14)	FC Dallas	1-3-1	FC Dallas earned four points against TFC, but can they repeat this against other MLS teams? The TFC game was not even close, but FC Dallas always finds a way to keep the games close with their propensity for mental lapses. Ferreira has begun to make an impact despite his size: his passing, possession and familiarity with his teammates is becoming evident. Dave Van De Berg offered a few good crosses but has been Missing-in-action for most of the season. The central pairing of Richetti and McCarty is the reason for FC Dallas' strong play.
14.   (12)	San Jose Quakes	1-2-2	San Jose could only score one goal on the LA Galaxy. Their offensive woes remain a concern while Bobby Convey fails to make the impact many had hoped in 2009. San Jose does not have the depth or the talent, although Arturo Alvarez has looked good for stretches this season.
15.    (15)	La Galaxy	0-1-3	The LA Galaxy benefited from a late game Brian Jordan header. The idea of integrating Landon Donovan in the midfield was a great idead, but implementing a 3-5-2 just does not make sense. Why is Sean Franklin still playing in the midfield? Why not move to a 4-5-1 which will give Donovan the appropiate touches and force their opponents to earn their points. It might be a long year and a permanent spot at #15.

 

 

What was your favorite game of the week? Who impressed you the most this week? Is Chivas USA the best team in the MLS? Will Kenny Cooper win the Golden Boot this year?

 

Included are blogs that discuss Chivas USA is crowned in the Major League Soccer Powering Rankings Week 5 and the latest soccer news

 

 

 

 

Week 4 neglected the MLS fans providing snoozers, losers, and one goal fest. The snoozer which Featured the Dynamo vs NYRB's offered ingredient stronger than night time couch syrup. I was out like a light after 30 minutes. LOL. The Super Clasico featured both reserve teams of the Goats and Galaxy. Alexi Lalas forgot to mention that important detail.  The San Jose and Fire game offered excellent goals and fast paced ryhthm. McBride's goal proves that he still has it.

 

Thanks to Davy Arnaud, Javier Morales, Pablo Richetti, and Conor Casey for providing excellent finales to the games. If you subscribed to Direct TV and missed the Sounder game, you can call their customer service and will credit your account a courtesy amount for technical difficulties. Enjoy SAN Power Rankings Week 4.

 

Rank (last week)	Team	Record	Comment
1.  (1)	Chicago Fire	2-0-2	Chicago should feel lucky that they earned one point. When is Coach Hamlett going to insert Blanco and Rolfe. The defense does not displays the same intensity but still the most talented in MLS.
2.  (4)	Chivas USA	3-0-1	Preki continues to impress while suffering from multiple injuries. Chivas USA will pose a greater threat when Razov and Galindo return to their form.
3.  (2)	Seattle Sounders FC	3-0-1	The Sounders showed heart and determination  regardless of losing their leader Kasey Keller to a red card. Osvaldo Alonso has started a trend: Miami FC just signed two Cuban defectors to their rostser.
4. (5)	New England Revolutions	2-0-1	A bye is just the thing that the Doctor ordered. Ralston and Reis will help the team's performance and bolster the roster. Darrius Barnes appears to be the steal of the draft up till week 4.
5.   (3)	Columbus Crew	0-2-3	The Crew looked better than the majority of their games. The inclusion of Moffat will help the central midfield while Ekpo slides to the wing. Don't count out the Crew yet because Rogers, Marshall, and Hejduk will be returning shortly.
6.  (8)	Real Salt Lake	2-1-0	RSL benefited from a fortunate bounce. Their second half  performance showed flashes of an active offense. DC United dominated the first half play. Back flipping Fabian Espindola is set to return to RSL.
7.   (10)	Colorado Rapids	2-1-1	Outplayed the majority of the game by the Crew, the Rapids and striker Conor Casey salvaged a point in the final minutes. The team is playing compact and organized but is missing a strong # 10. Will Casey win the golden boot or return to the USMNT?
8.  (12)	Kansas City Wizards	2-2-0	The Wizards would be in trouble if it wasn't for one of the most underrated players in MLS, Davy Arnaud. His long range strike gave the Wizards the victory over the Sounders.
9.   (7)	Toronto FC	1-1-2	Toronto struggled again against FC Dallas at home. Have they lost their home field advantage? Will TFC feature a D Ro and Vitti forward pairing? What happened to the team that looked so dominant against KC Wizards on opening day.
10.  (9)	Houston Dynamo	0-2-2	It is evident that with De Rosario and Jacqua's departure, the Dynamo does not strike fear offensively into its' opponents. Holden is a good utility player but not a # 10. Where will their offense originate?
11.   (13)	DC United	1-1-2	The rebuilding project proves impressive since Wallace and Pontiues are earning playing time. The United are more balanced and united on defense. Late game lapses have been their downfall. Emilio appears to have encountered his 2007 form.
12.   (11)	San Jose Earthquakes	1-2-1	San Jose deserved three points but should feel fortunate with one. The Fire provided a poor defensive showing, but impressed with several nice goals. Why is Bobby Convey playing Left back? His goal was nice, but San Jose needs offensive fire power.
13.  (14)	New York Red Bulls	0-2-2	Why is Jorge Rojas is still in MLS? Coach Osario's insistence in playing Rojas raises concers of his decision making. Angel and Khanji need service: the midfield looks inept and have thoroughly disappointed this season. Reinforcements are coming in Celades and Pacheco. At least their defense held the Dynamo scoreless, and I am not sure if that is a compliment any more.
14.  (15)	FC Dallas	0-3-1	FC Dallas should feel happy about stealing a point away at BMO Field. Their defense played well, but the Rocha and Van Deberg need to step up the game because their service to the forwards is atrocious. McCarty and Richetti have formed a nice duo in the central midfield. Ferreira passes well, but his teammates have disappointed with poor finishing.
15.    (14)	LA Galaxy	0-1-2	Ricketts proved his worth against the Chivas who played below their normal standard. Three points were delivered on a silver platter,  and they failed to capitilize the whole second half. If it wasn't for Berhalter's smart play after his error, the Galaxy would have lost. One question for Coach Arena: What is Sean Franklin doing on the right wing?

 

 

What are your thought of this week? What did your favorite team do? Do you agree with the author? Who should be number one? Let us Know.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Addict News MLS Power Rankings Week 4 and the latest soccer news.

 

 

 

In the latest soccer news: Considered one of the marquee rivalries in Major League Soccer, the Galaxy and Chivas USA game provided the intensity of a Super Clasico while lacking the entertainment factor of previous games. Poor defending, finishing, and refereeing were on display for most of the game. Yes, intensity did exist throughout the game, but the physical tackles became excessive. Paola Nagamura paid the price in the 44th minute with a suspect card as the referee tried to restore order to a game that was spiralling out of control. Here are my observations from the game.

 

This soccer video features highlights of the superclasico.

 

 

 

1. Donovan Ricketts: displayed a wonderful game tallying five saves, instilling confidence in the back line, and distributing well with long kicks. Although the Galaxy is still depleted in the roster department, Ricketts will infuse confidence in the defense and offer an upgrade at the position. Arena's acquistion appeared to pay dividends.

 

2. Gregg Berhalter: appeared composed for most of the game and offered a calming presence on the defensive end. Although many have criticized his play for his play at the end of the game by losing the ball, his red card was magnificent as he saved the Galaxy a point for his ejection. I am not jumping on the Galaxy bandwagon, but Berhalter appears to be a positive for the 2009 season. His knowledge and experience will be valuable as he mentors the talented Gonzalez.

 

3. Sean Franklin at Right wing?: was an interesting choice to say the least. Although he was voted the Rookie of the Year, I am still confused why so many are so high on him. DelaGarza appears to be a better fit at right midfielder because of his skill and cerebral approach. I understand that Sean Franklin is fast but has not impressed much all season and has been prone to errors. Maybe, it is just me and I don't get it, but it appears that he has been overrated due to the weak 2008 rookie class.

 

4. Coach Preki: Many critics suggested that Preki could be looking for a new job if Chivas USA did not play well this season. With several injuries to their roster, Preki continues to maximize his player's performances and proves that his coaching ability. Say what you want. Preki deserves more credit than he receives.

 

With Kljestan potentially leaving for Europe this season, it seems reasonable to say that Chivas USA will still be good regardless of his departure. Once key players such as Sacha Victorine, Ante Razov, and Maykel Galindo return, Chivas USA could pose the best opportunity to hoist the MLS Cup. It is interesting that most jumped off the bandwagon after Chivas USA failed in the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

 

5. Bruce Arena's Tactics: The former USMNT coach demonstrated in this year's draft that he has a good eye for talent selecting Gonzalez, DeLaGarza, Patterson, and Marshall. However, his propensity to favor older players just band aids the roster for the moment. If the Galaxy continue to struggle, it would be a good idea for him to release several high paid veterans to make way for USL players. Plain and simple the Galaxy look broken down and have many players that have turned over the odometer several times.

 

Playing Sean Franklin on the right wing almost guaranteed that Donovan would not receive little if any service. The Central midfield still needs work, and their  various pairings give some MLS teams the look of Arsenal and Barcelona. JK!!! But you get the idea. In the second half of the season, it would be refreshing to see the Galaxy solidify their teams with some trades or acquisitions. Let's see if Coach Arena can prove that he can rebuild the Galaxy into a top club.

 

What are you thought? Will the LA Galaxy improve this season? What did you think of all the yellow cards? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss The LA Galaxy holds Chivas USA scoreless in Super Classico and the latest soccer news

 

 

 

In the latest soccer news: The guys over at Extra Time discuss the MLS Week 3 and share their thoughts about the horrible FC Dallas and the resillient and undefeated Chivas USA. Enjoy the video.

 

This soccer video features MLS EXtra Time.

 

 

Included are blogs that discuss Major League Soccer Extra Time: Findley and Casey score hat tricks and the latest soccer news

 

 

In the latest soccer news: Week 3 in Major League Soccer provided some interesting moments with Colorado forward Conor Casey earning a hat trick. The Seattle Sounders and Chivas USA have tallied all nine points and have surprised many  producing despite critics quick to point out their deficiencies. The Columbus Crew and Houston Dynamo started this season in lackluster form. Will they be able to improve their play?

 

Week three provided some interesting matches and other that simply failed to entertain. The beginning of the season has proven that the rookie class has integrated and contributed faster than many had thought before the season.  Enjoy the MLS highlights for Week 3.

 

THis Soccer Video features highlights of Week 3 in the MLS.

 

 

What was your favorite game of the week? Who are your favorite teams this season? Will Connor Casey make his way back into the USMNT mix? SHare your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Major League Soccer Highlights Week 3: Conor Casey earns a hat trick and the latest soccer news