Another week of former Wizards updates. The USL playoffs are inn full swing right now. Still looking for a few former Wizards still, and since Carlos Marinelli hasn't even appeared for Argentinos Juniors at all, I'm doubting he actually signed for them, so he joins the list of former Wizards I'm searching for, along with Alex Zotinca, Doug DeMartin, Jose Burciaga, Neal Kitson, Scott Sealy, and Will John.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started and played 90 minutes in Toronto's 2-2 draw with Chicago.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-1 loss to New England.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-0 win over LA. Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 1-1 draw with Deportivo Saprissa in the CONCACAF Champion's League.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - Dressed but did not play in LA's 2-0 loss to Columbus.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - Started and played 90 minutes in RSL's 3-0 loss to Dallas.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Started and played 73 minutes in Chicago's 2-2 draw with Toronto.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Started and played 90 minutes in Chivas' 1-1 draw with New York.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Dressed but did not play in Chivas' 1-1 draw with New York.
Abe Thompson - Houston - Houston did not have a league game this week. They play Pachuca in the CONCACAF Champion's League tonight.
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Started and played 87 minutes recording 2 asists in Dallas' 3-0 win over RSL. Started and played 26 minutes in Dallas' 1-0 win over New Englandn tonight.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - On the DL
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Dressed but did not play in Seattle's 2-1 loss to New England.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Came off the bench and played 18 minutes in Charleston's 2-0 loss to Montreal on Thursday. Started and played 67 minutes recording an assist in Charleston's 2-1 loss to Montreal on Sunday, eliminating Charleston from the playoffs.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress for either of Vancouver's games against Carolina in the USL playoffs.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Started and played 90 minutes in Rochester's 2-1 win over Puerto Rico on Thursday. Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in Rochester's 4-1 loss to Puerto Rico on Sunday. Rochester is eliminated from the playoffs.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Did not dress for either one of Carolina's 2 games against Vancouver in the USL playoffs. Carolina is eliminated as well.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Portland won the USL regular season title and had a bye in the first round of the playoffs.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 2-0 loss to Montreal on Thursday. Started and played 909 minutes in Charleston's 2-1 loss to Montreal on Sunday.
International
Eloy Colombano - Ferro Carril Sud (Olavarría) - Argentina - FerroCarril lost 1-0 to La Emilia.
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Did not dress in Fulham's 1-0 loss to Arsenal.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Did not play in Fingal's 4-1 win over Finn Harps.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Started and played 86 minutes, scoring a goal in Aalesunds' 1-1 draw with Viking.
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Finland - Started and played 90 minutes in PoPa's 1-0 loss to KPV.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Came off the bench and played 17 minutes in Frankfurt's 3-0 loss to Energie Cottbus.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Did not play in Quindío's 3-1 win over Independiente Santa Fe.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Did not dress in Wellington's 0-0 draw with Central Coast Mariners FC.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
New Stadium Site
The other week while I was out at CAB for the Wizards game, I stopped by the Wizards new stadium location right across the street from Nebraska Furniture Mart. Here are a few pictures of the site. The first picture is looking back towards the site from around the corner of 40 Highway and Prairie Crossing. The second, third and fourth were taken from the NFM parking lot scanning from southeast (where the stadium goes) to the northwest. Not the greatest pictures, but you get an idea of the location. The shocking thing for me (at the time, and more so now) is how small the site is. It doesn't seem like it'd be big enough to fit the stadium in there. But then again, I'm only eyeballing it.
Monday, September 28, 2009
September Player of the Month
The Wizards are done playing for the month of September, which means it's time to decide who is this month's player of the month. The Wizards went 3-1-1 in the month of September. Much better than the team's winless September. This month there are a few players that are certainly in the conversation for player of the month.
Josh Wolff - Wolff scored 4 goals in the month of September. At the start of the Wizards 3 game East Coast road trip, Wolff played a part in all 4 of the Wizards in their 4-2 win over New England. He also scored the game winner against New York and the game tying goal against Dallas.
Claudio Lopez - Lopez had a goal and 3 assists in September, but that was just what was finished. Lopez could have finished the month with 5-6 assists. The team also could have finished with another win if other players had finished off Lopez's chances.
Kevin Hartman - Hartman had a good month picking up 2 more shutouts in September including some big saves so that the Wizards picked up the 1-0 win in New York. Once again he proved why the Wizards brought him in.
This month, the award goes to......
Claudio Lopez.
It was close between Lopez and Wolff, but Lopez has really come alive this past month under Peter Vermes. Since his move back to the wing Lopez has picked up his play and been much more influential on the game.
Josh Wolff - Wolff scored 4 goals in the month of September. At the start of the Wizards 3 game East Coast road trip, Wolff played a part in all 4 of the Wizards in their 4-2 win over New England. He also scored the game winner against New York and the game tying goal against Dallas.
Claudio Lopez - Lopez had a goal and 3 assists in September, but that was just what was finished. Lopez could have finished the month with 5-6 assists. The team also could have finished with another win if other players had finished off Lopez's chances.
Kevin Hartman - Hartman had a good month picking up 2 more shutouts in September including some big saves so that the Wizards picked up the 1-0 win in New York. Once again he proved why the Wizards brought him in.
This month, the award goes to......
Claudio Lopez.
It was close between Lopez and Wolff, but Lopez has really come alive this past month under Peter Vermes. Since his move back to the wing Lopez has picked up his play and been much more influential on the game.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Sunday After Stats
For the first time this season, Herculez Gomez did not appear in a game for the Wizards. Up until last night, Gomez had appeared in all 25 league games and all 5 in the Wizards other competitions.
Kei Kamara appeared in his 100th game in all competitions in him MLS career last night.
In the 38th minute, Claudio Lopez hit the 5,000 minute mark in all competitions for the Wizards.
Last night was Josh Wolff's 115th appearance in league play for the Wizards, tying him with Jose Burciaga Jr. for 14th on the all time list.
It was also Wolff's 108th start in league play for KC, tying him with Diego Gutierrez for 12th on that list.
Kevin Hartman started his 96th game in all competitions for KC last night, tying him with Chris Brown for 19th on that list.
Kei Kamara appeared in his 100th game in all competitions in him MLS career last night.
In the 38th minute, Claudio Lopez hit the 5,000 minute mark in all competitions for the Wizards.
Last night was Josh Wolff's 115th appearance in league play for the Wizards, tying him with Jose Burciaga Jr. for 14th on the all time list.
It was also Wolff's 108th start in league play for KC, tying him with Diego Gutierrez for 12th on that list.
Kevin Hartman started his 96th game in all competitions for KC last night, tying him with Chris Brown for 19th on that list.
Points Dropped - Playoffs Slim to None
The Wizards playoff hopes were slim coming into last night's game against Colorado, and with the 0-0 draw and the way other results went around the league, slim is packing their bags right now. KC was the more dominate team throughout the game, and looked the more likely to get the goal throughout the game, but could not find the net. Meanwhile Colorado hung back deeper in their end, hoping to spring Conor Casey or Omar Cummings on a counter. Early on, much of the play was in Colorado's end of the field as KC created a few half chances, but failed to really test Preston Burpo in the Colorado net. The best chance came on a half volley by Santiago Hirsig off a corner kick. Coloado's best early chance came in the 24th minute, when Cummings danced around the top of the box before firing a shot that Kevin Hartman did well to push wide of the net. KC continued to create half chances, or looks, but either the shots were poor, right at Burpo, or KC just couldn't connect on the final ball.
In the second half, KC continued to push the game. KC was making more of the chances they were coming up with but still could not find the net. Davy Arnaud headed just wide of the post off of a cross in the 53rd. The Wizards best chance, and the best chance of the game came in the 78th minute, when a Claudio Lopez corner was met by an unmarked Jimmy Conrad at the back post. Conrad tried to steer his header inbetween the post and the Rapids player marking the post, but Conrad ended up putting it off the post and the ball bounced back into play. KC had another golden chance in the 81st off a quick counter started by Hartman. The ball went from Lopez on the right back across to the left, where it was then crossed in for Zoltan Hercegfalvi, whose slit touch didn't redirect the cross enough to put it into the net, instead sending it just wide of the post. KC pressed forward late but could not find the net, having to settle for the 0-0 draw.
Wizards Man of the Match - Matt Besler - The rookie did a good job last night of shutting down and frustrating the league's leading scorer, Conor Casey. Casey was never able to get a good look on goal, thanks to the work of Besler.
Honorable Mention - Jimmy Conrad
Player Ratings - Hartman 6, Leathers 5, Conrad 6, Besler 6, Harrington 6, Arnaud 4, Jewsbury 5, Hirsig 5, Lopez 5, Kamara 6, Wolff 5. Subs Hercegfalvi 5.
In the second half, KC continued to push the game. KC was making more of the chances they were coming up with but still could not find the net. Davy Arnaud headed just wide of the post off of a cross in the 53rd. The Wizards best chance, and the best chance of the game came in the 78th minute, when a Claudio Lopez corner was met by an unmarked Jimmy Conrad at the back post. Conrad tried to steer his header inbetween the post and the Rapids player marking the post, but Conrad ended up putting it off the post and the ball bounced back into play. KC had another golden chance in the 81st off a quick counter started by Hartman. The ball went from Lopez on the right back across to the left, where it was then crossed in for Zoltan Hercegfalvi, whose slit touch didn't redirect the cross enough to put it into the net, instead sending it just wide of the post. KC pressed forward late but could not find the net, having to settle for the 0-0 draw.
Wizards Man of the Match - Matt Besler - The rookie did a good job last night of shutting down and frustrating the league's leading scorer, Conor Casey. Casey was never able to get a good look on goal, thanks to the work of Besler.
Honorable Mention - Jimmy Conrad
Player Ratings - Hartman 6, Leathers 5, Conrad 6, Besler 6, Harrington 6, Arnaud 4, Jewsbury 5, Hirsig 5, Lopez 5, Kamara 6, Wolff 5. Subs Hercegfalvi 5.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Make Up More Ground
The Wizards have a chance tomorrow to make up more ground on the pack ahead of them and get even closer to the MLS playoffs this year. Tomorrow, the Wizards take on the Colorado Rapids, who are currently 8 points ahead of the Wizards and currently in the playoffs. Colorado comes into the game on the backs of 2 1-1 draws with San Jose, both on late penalty kick goals by the leagues leading scorer, Conor Casey. Him and Omar Cummings have formed a potent partnership for the Rapids and will be a hand full for the Wizards back line. The good news for the Wizards, is that due to injuries, the Rapids are without most of their wingers as Colin Clark, Jamie Smith, and Jacob Peterson are all going to be out this weekend it looks like.
The Wizards are going to need to win this game to continue to keep their playoff hopes alive. Winning their home games is the big thing for the Wizards right now. Taking all 9 from their remaining 3 home games will be essential for KC to get into the playoffs. Jack Jewsbury will be back for the Wizards this weekend after serving his yellow card suspension. Jimmy Conrad and Michael Harrington, while having a "meeting of the minds" at practice earlier this week, should be ready to go as well. The question is, with Davy Arnaud's struggles on the field since returning from the Gold Cup, do you sit him and give Kei Kamara the start? Or do you drop Arnaud back into midfield and sit Herculez Gomez? Personally I think Arnaud needs a break and a start on the bench may not be the worst thing for him.
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Conor Casey - Conrad will have his hands full with the league leading scorer and will need to have a much better game overall than his performance against Dallas for KC to get the win tomorrow night.
PREDICTION - Colorado played on Wednesday of this week, and is without some key players for the game this weekend. You would think that would give the Wizards the advantage, but outside the recent games in New England and New York, KC has not done very well against undermanned teams lately. Taking out the Rapids on little rest would give the Wizards a big boost and definitely keep them in the chase for a playoff spot.
KC - 1 (Wolff)
CO - 0
The Wizards are going to need to win this game to continue to keep their playoff hopes alive. Winning their home games is the big thing for the Wizards right now. Taking all 9 from their remaining 3 home games will be essential for KC to get into the playoffs. Jack Jewsbury will be back for the Wizards this weekend after serving his yellow card suspension. Jimmy Conrad and Michael Harrington, while having a "meeting of the minds" at practice earlier this week, should be ready to go as well. The question is, with Davy Arnaud's struggles on the field since returning from the Gold Cup, do you sit him and give Kei Kamara the start? Or do you drop Arnaud back into midfield and sit Herculez Gomez? Personally I think Arnaud needs a break and a start on the bench may not be the worst thing for him.
Hartman
Leathers - Conrad - Besler - Harrington
Jewsbury - Hirsig
Gomez - - - - - - - Lopez
Kamara - Wolff
Leathers - Conrad - Besler - Harrington
Jewsbury - Hirsig
Gomez - - - - - - - Lopez
Kamara - Wolff
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Conor Casey - Conrad will have his hands full with the league leading scorer and will need to have a much better game overall than his performance against Dallas for KC to get the win tomorrow night.
PREDICTION - Colorado played on Wednesday of this week, and is without some key players for the game this weekend. You would think that would give the Wizards the advantage, but outside the recent games in New England and New York, KC has not done very well against undermanned teams lately. Taking out the Rapids on little rest would give the Wizards a big boost and definitely keep them in the chase for a playoff spot.
KC - 1 (Wolff)
CO - 0
Thursday, September 24, 2009
First Kick 2010
For those that hadn't seen my twitter post earlier today (BTW, twitter is currently the best way to follow this blog in regards to breaking news on the Wizards during the work day), the Wizards season opener for 2010 has been released. KC once again opens the season at home, this time against DC again on March 27th at 7:30pm at CAB. The second time in three years at home, and the third time in four seasons against United. Due to the way the schedule comes out for KC, we actually know the team's second match of the season. On April 3rd, KC will travel to Houston to take on the Dynamo in their home opener at 7:30 pm.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Former Wizards Update
Here's another one of your weekly update on former Wizards. The USL regular season is now over, meaning all the former Wizards with Miami, Austin, and Minnesota are done for the season. I've also found out where Eloy Colombano is playing now. He's playing in the Argentine 4th division with Ferro Carril Sud.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started annd played 90 minutes in Toronto's 2-0 loss to LA.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Did not dress in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Chivas USA.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-2 draw with Chicago. Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-0 loss to Cruz Azul.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in LA's 2-0 win over Toronto.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - Came off the bench and played 38 minutes, scoring a goal in RSL's 3-2 loss to Houston.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Chicago's 2-2 draw with Columbus.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Suspended for Chivas' 0-0 draw with Seattle.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Dressed but did not play in Chivas' 0-0 draw with Seattle.
Abe Thompson - Houston - Dressed but did not play in Houston's 3-2 win over RSL. Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Houston's 5-1 win over Arabe Unido in the CONCACAF Champion's League.
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Started and played 62 minutes in Dallas' 3-2 loss to KC.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - On the DL list.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Dressed but did not play in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Chivas.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Started and played 61 minutes in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Rochester. Dressed but did not play in Charleston's 3-2 win over Minnesota.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress in Vancouver's 2-1 win over Cleveland.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Austin's season is over.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 3-2 loss to Charleston. The Thunder's season is over.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Austin's season is over.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Did not dress in Rochester's 0-0 draw with Charleston.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Dressed but did not play in Carolina's 2-0 win over Montreal.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Austin's season is over.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Did nont dress in Miami's 3-1 loss to Puerto Rico.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 2-1 win over Cleveland.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Rochester. Did not dress in Charleston's 3-2 win over Minnesota.
International
Eloy Colombano - Ferro Carril Sud - Argentina - Ferrocarril defeated Bella Vista 1-0.
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Did not dress in Fulham's 1-1 draw with CSKA Sofia last Thursday. Did not dress in Fulham's 2-1 loss to Wolves on Sunday. Started and played 91 minutes in Fulham's 2-1 loss to Manchester City in the Carling Cup.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Did not play in Fingal's 3-2 win over Kildare County or their 1-0 loss to Wexford Youths.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not dress in Juniors 2-1 win over Atlético Tucumán.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Started and played 76 minutes in Aalesunds' 3-0 win over Brann.
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Finland - Started and played 90 minutes in PoPa's 1-0 win over PK-35.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Came off the bench and played 18 minutes in Frankfurt's 2-0 loss to Karlsruhe.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Did not dress in Quindío's 3-1 loss to Boyacá Chicó FC.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Did not dress in Wellingtonn's 1-1 draw with North Queensland Fury.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started annd played 90 minutes in Toronto's 2-0 loss to LA.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Did not dress in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Chivas USA.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-2 draw with Chicago. Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-0 loss to Cruz Azul.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in LA's 2-0 win over Toronto.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - Came off the bench and played 38 minutes, scoring a goal in RSL's 3-2 loss to Houston.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Chicago's 2-2 draw with Columbus.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Suspended for Chivas' 0-0 draw with Seattle.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Dressed but did not play in Chivas' 0-0 draw with Seattle.
Abe Thompson - Houston - Dressed but did not play in Houston's 3-2 win over RSL. Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Houston's 5-1 win over Arabe Unido in the CONCACAF Champion's League.
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Started and played 62 minutes in Dallas' 3-2 loss to KC.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - On the DL list.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Dressed but did not play in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Chivas.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Started and played 61 minutes in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Rochester. Dressed but did not play in Charleston's 3-2 win over Minnesota.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress in Vancouver's 2-1 win over Cleveland.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Austin's season is over.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 3-2 loss to Charleston. The Thunder's season is over.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Austin's season is over.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Did not dress in Rochester's 0-0 draw with Charleston.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Dressed but did not play in Carolina's 2-0 win over Montreal.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Austin's season is over.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Did nont dress in Miami's 3-1 loss to Puerto Rico.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 2-1 win over Cleveland.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Rochester. Did not dress in Charleston's 3-2 win over Minnesota.
International
Eloy Colombano - Ferro Carril Sud - Argentina - Ferrocarril defeated Bella Vista 1-0.
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Did not dress in Fulham's 1-1 draw with CSKA Sofia last Thursday. Did not dress in Fulham's 2-1 loss to Wolves on Sunday. Started and played 91 minutes in Fulham's 2-1 loss to Manchester City in the Carling Cup.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Did not play in Fingal's 3-2 win over Kildare County or their 1-0 loss to Wexford Youths.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not dress in Juniors 2-1 win over Atlético Tucumán.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Started and played 76 minutes in Aalesunds' 3-0 win over Brann.
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Finland - Started and played 90 minutes in PoPa's 1-0 win over PK-35.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Came off the bench and played 18 minutes in Frankfurt's 2-0 loss to Karlsruhe.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Did not dress in Quindío's 3-1 loss to Boyacá Chicó FC.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Did not dress in Wellingtonn's 1-1 draw with North Queensland Fury.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Former Wizard to Hall of Fame
I was going to wait until Wednesday's former Wizards update for this, but decided it was too big of news to not touch on, on it's own. Former Wizard, Diego Gutierrez, is going to be receiving a big honor on Thursday. Gutierrez, who retired at the end of last season will be inducted into the Humanitarian Hall of Fame in Boise Idaho. For the past few years, Gutierrez has worked with the "Nothing but Nets" program to help with the malaria problem in Africa. Gutierrez's induction even made national news, as it was discussed by Kevin Blackistone in his "30 seconds of face time" on Around the Horn today on ESPN. You can listen to Blackistone's comments on the podcast for September 22nd (the part about Gutierrez starts at the 22:20 mark).
Congratulations Diego, you deserve it, and you do all Wizards' fans, soccer fans and Kansas Citians proud.
Congratulations Diego, you deserve it, and you do all Wizards' fans, soccer fans and Kansas Citians proud.
Save of the Week
To go along with Josh Wolff's Goal of the Week nominee, Kevin Hartman is up for Save of the Week this week for his 82nd minute save on Heath Pearce to keep the Wizards 3-2 advantage over FC Dallas. Check out the save again here.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Wolff Up for Goal of the Week
Josh Wolff's deft little touch off of Zoltan Hercegfalvi's strike is up for goal of the week this week. Wolff got just enough of Hercegfalvi's shot to redirect it into the net against Dallas to tie the score at 2-2.
Check out the goal again.
Check out the goal again.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Sunday After Stats
Josh Wolff's goal was his 10th in league play, tying a career high.
It was also Wolff's 82nd in all competitions, tying him with Cobi Jones for 14th on that list.
Wolff's goal was his 40th in league play for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Chris Klein for second on that list.
It was also Wolff's 43rd in all competitions for KC, tying him with Chris Klein for 3rd on that list.
In the 82nd minute, Wolff passed Uche Okafor to more into 12th place for most league minutes played for the Wizards, Wolff finished the game with 9,521 minutes played.
Wolff's 114th league appearance for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez. Also his 107th league start, tying him with Uche Okafor for 13th on that list.
Wolff made his 131st appearance in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Uche Okafor and Jose Burciaga for 14th place on that list.
Jimmy Conrad's goal was his 16th for the Wizards in all competitions, tying him with Francisco Gomez for 14th on that list. In the process he broke his tie with Sasha Victorine and Jose Burciaga.
It was Conrad's 16th goal in league play as well, breaking a tie with Chris Brown for 10th place on that list.
Conrad's game winner was his 5th for the Wizards in league play, tying him with Jack Jewsbury and Igor Simutenkov for 12th on that list.
It was also Conrad's 5th in league play, tying him with Jewsbury for 14th on that list.
Conrad made his 200th appearance in all competitions for the Wizards. He's the 6th Wizard to play 200 games for KC in all competitions.
In the 6th minute, Davy Arnaud hit the 15,000 minute mark in league play for the Wizards. He's the 6th Wizard to hit that mark.
Claudio Lopez's 2 assists gave him 14 in league play tied him with Francisco Gomez and Diego Gutierrez for 14th all time for the Wizards.
The two assists also gave Lopez 16 in all competitions for the Wizards, good for 14th on that list as well.
It was also Wolff's 82nd in all competitions, tying him with Cobi Jones for 14th on that list.
Wolff's goal was his 40th in league play for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Chris Klein for second on that list.
It was also Wolff's 43rd in all competitions for KC, tying him with Chris Klein for 3rd on that list.
In the 82nd minute, Wolff passed Uche Okafor to more into 12th place for most league minutes played for the Wizards, Wolff finished the game with 9,521 minutes played.
Wolff's 114th league appearance for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez. Also his 107th league start, tying him with Uche Okafor for 13th on that list.
Wolff made his 131st appearance in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Uche Okafor and Jose Burciaga for 14th place on that list.
Jimmy Conrad's goal was his 16th for the Wizards in all competitions, tying him with Francisco Gomez for 14th on that list. In the process he broke his tie with Sasha Victorine and Jose Burciaga.
It was Conrad's 16th goal in league play as well, breaking a tie with Chris Brown for 10th place on that list.
Conrad's game winner was his 5th for the Wizards in league play, tying him with Jack Jewsbury and Igor Simutenkov for 12th on that list.
It was also Conrad's 5th in league play, tying him with Jewsbury for 14th on that list.
Conrad made his 200th appearance in all competitions for the Wizards. He's the 6th Wizard to play 200 games for KC in all competitions.
In the 6th minute, Davy Arnaud hit the 15,000 minute mark in league play for the Wizards. He's the 6th Wizard to hit that mark.
Claudio Lopez's 2 assists gave him 14 in league play tied him with Francisco Gomez and Diego Gutierrez for 14th all time for the Wizards.
The two assists also gave Lopez 16 in all competitions for the Wizards, good for 14th on that list as well.
Still Fighting
The Wizards still are very unlikely to qualify for the playoffs this year, but they're not going down this year without a fight. KC came back from being a goal down to take all 3 points last night out at Community America Ballpark against Dallas, winning 3-2. Jimmy Conrad picked up the winner after having a howler of a night in the defensive third of the field giving the ball away for both of Dallas' goals last night.
The game as a whole was marred with poor defensive play. It started early Santiago Hirsig completely lost his mark on a corner in the 9th minute and had the easiest of headers to put away to give KC the 1-0 lead. The teams continued to go back and forth for much of the rest of the half with a few half chances, but no real chances on goal. Dallas' best opportunity came on a lofted ball into the box for Jeff Cunningham. Kevin Hartman saved his header, but Cunningham was offside anyways. Then late in the first half on a routine throw in, Conrad played the ball up the field directly to Dax McCarty, who dribbled to the two of the penalty circle before firing a low shot past Hartman to level the scores.
Early in the second half, Conrad made another bad defensive error. Conrad mistouched a bouncing ball that he was trying to settle, David Ferreira stepped in and stole the ball off of Conrad. Ferreira dribbled into the KC area, got Hartman to commit and then squared the ball to Cunningham who had an open net to finish into to give Dallas the 2-1 lead in the 53rd. KC then started to press the game, getting forward when they could as Dallas sat back to try to defend their 2-1 lead. The Wizards came close to leveling the score when Davy Arnaud had his shot nicely saved by Dario Sala and Kei Kamara headed the rebounded cross just over the bar. KC finally got the equalizer in the 77th off another corner. Claudio Lopez's corner went to the back post to Zoltan Hercegfalvi, who had just entered the game. With his first touch, Hercegfalvi fired in a shot on goal, which Josh Wolff redirected into the net to level the scores at 2. Only a few minutes later, KC found the winner. Lopez took the ball down the left wing and played in a cross which was headed at Sala by his own player. Sala did well to parry the ball away, but it fell right to Conrad who had moved forward. Conrad, with the whole goal to shot for headed the ball into the empty net to give the Wizards the lead again. KC held onto the lead for the last 10 minutes with Hartman making a big save on Heath Pearce to preserve the lead.
Wizards Man of the Math - Claudio Lopez - Lopez played a part in all 3 goals last night with two assists off corners and his cross leading to the winning goal by Conrad. Another good outing by Lopez.
Honorable Mention - Santiago Hirsig
Player Ratings - Hartman 5, Leathers 4, Conrad 5, Besler 5, Harrington 4, Gomez 4, Hirsig 5, Morsink 4, Lopez 6, Arnaud 4, Wolff 5. Subs Kamara 5, Zusi 4, Hercegfalvi 5
The game as a whole was marred with poor defensive play. It started early Santiago Hirsig completely lost his mark on a corner in the 9th minute and had the easiest of headers to put away to give KC the 1-0 lead. The teams continued to go back and forth for much of the rest of the half with a few half chances, but no real chances on goal. Dallas' best opportunity came on a lofted ball into the box for Jeff Cunningham. Kevin Hartman saved his header, but Cunningham was offside anyways. Then late in the first half on a routine throw in, Conrad played the ball up the field directly to Dax McCarty, who dribbled to the two of the penalty circle before firing a low shot past Hartman to level the scores.
Early in the second half, Conrad made another bad defensive error. Conrad mistouched a bouncing ball that he was trying to settle, David Ferreira stepped in and stole the ball off of Conrad. Ferreira dribbled into the KC area, got Hartman to commit and then squared the ball to Cunningham who had an open net to finish into to give Dallas the 2-1 lead in the 53rd. KC then started to press the game, getting forward when they could as Dallas sat back to try to defend their 2-1 lead. The Wizards came close to leveling the score when Davy Arnaud had his shot nicely saved by Dario Sala and Kei Kamara headed the rebounded cross just over the bar. KC finally got the equalizer in the 77th off another corner. Claudio Lopez's corner went to the back post to Zoltan Hercegfalvi, who had just entered the game. With his first touch, Hercegfalvi fired in a shot on goal, which Josh Wolff redirected into the net to level the scores at 2. Only a few minutes later, KC found the winner. Lopez took the ball down the left wing and played in a cross which was headed at Sala by his own player. Sala did well to parry the ball away, but it fell right to Conrad who had moved forward. Conrad, with the whole goal to shot for headed the ball into the empty net to give the Wizards the lead again. KC held onto the lead for the last 10 minutes with Hartman making a big save on Heath Pearce to preserve the lead.
Wizards Man of the Math - Claudio Lopez - Lopez played a part in all 3 goals last night with two assists off corners and his cross leading to the winning goal by Conrad. Another good outing by Lopez.
Honorable Mention - Santiago Hirsig
Player Ratings - Hartman 5, Leathers 4, Conrad 5, Besler 5, Harrington 4, Gomez 4, Hirsig 5, Morsink 4, Lopez 6, Arnaud 4, Wolff 5. Subs Kamara 5, Zusi 4, Hercegfalvi 5
Friday, September 18, 2009
Revenge on My Mind
This weekend, the Wizards welcome FC Dallas to Kansas City in what is a must win for both teams if they want to make the playoffs this year. Both teams can only barely see the playoffs and getting 3 points tomorrow night out at CAB will be big for either team. Dallas comes into this game having put another half a dozen on the board, this time out in LA against the Galaxy. Jeff Cunningham is in good form right now and has moved up into second place for goals scored in league play. The smaller CAB field should negate some of Dallas' speed, but he's still the danger man that KC must watch.
I was in Dallas for the embarassing 6-0 defeat earlier this year, and I for one would love to return the favor. I'm sure many of the players that played in that game have circled the game as a chance for redemption. Hopefully they come through and take care of business. Jack Jewsbury is suspended tomorrow due to picking up a yellow in New York. There are a few options KC can go with in his absence. The team can go back to a diamond midfield and drop Davy Arnaud into the attacking midfield role and start either Zoltan or Kei Kamara up top with Josh Wolff. Or if the team chooses to stick with more of the empty bucket formation they've used lately, we could see Kurt Morsink return to the starting lineup.
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Jeff Cunningham - Cunningham continues to be a major threat in the league and he's been hot as of late, scoring two more goals last week in LA against the Galaxy. Shutting him down will be key, although the smaller field at CAB should help to contain him.
PREDICITON - I wanted to just put 6-0 for the score and hope that KC pulls it off. But this team isn't going to score 6 goals, I have doubts that they could even hit 4 again like they did in New England. KC needs this and at home against Dallas they may be able to pull it off. KC can slow the game down better on the smaller field at CAB. If they can do that and neutralize the speed of Dallas they may just come away with all 3 points.
KC - 2 (Wolff, Kamara)
FCD - 1 (Cunningham)
I was in Dallas for the embarassing 6-0 defeat earlier this year, and I for one would love to return the favor. I'm sure many of the players that played in that game have circled the game as a chance for redemption. Hopefully they come through and take care of business. Jack Jewsbury is suspended tomorrow due to picking up a yellow in New York. There are a few options KC can go with in his absence. The team can go back to a diamond midfield and drop Davy Arnaud into the attacking midfield role and start either Zoltan or Kei Kamara up top with Josh Wolff. Or if the team chooses to stick with more of the empty bucket formation they've used lately, we could see Kurt Morsink return to the starting lineup.
Hartman
Leathers - Conrad - Hohlbein - Harrington
Hirsig - Morsink
Gomez - - - - - - - - Lopez
Wolff - Arnaud
Leathers - Conrad - Hohlbein - Harrington
Hirsig - Morsink
Gomez - - - - - - - - Lopez
Wolff - Arnaud
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Jeff Cunningham - Cunningham continues to be a major threat in the league and he's been hot as of late, scoring two more goals last week in LA against the Galaxy. Shutting him down will be key, although the smaller field at CAB should help to contain him.
PREDICITON - I wanted to just put 6-0 for the score and hope that KC pulls it off. But this team isn't going to score 6 goals, I have doubts that they could even hit 4 again like they did in New England. KC needs this and at home against Dallas they may be able to pull it off. KC can slow the game down better on the smaller field at CAB. If they can do that and neutralize the speed of Dallas they may just come away with all 3 points.
KC - 2 (Wolff, Kamara)
FCD - 1 (Cunningham)
Farewell Abe
Abe Thompson was with the Wizards for a little less than a year before he was traded this past week for Kei Kamara. Thompson was brought in last year by the Wizards to help with their scoring issues down the stretch. He didn't find net, but his bigger presence in the forward position did allow the Wizards to show something different on the field than they had been previously. Still, his lack of scoring saw Thompson begin to fall down the depth chart, and this year Thompson had only appeared in 8 league games, 12 in all competitions. He did finally get his first goal for the Wizards, scoring from the penalty spot in the Wizards 3-3 draw, penalty kick shootout win over Minnesota in the US Open Cup.
In his time in KC, Thompson finished having played in 16 league games, starting 8 of them and recording 1 assist for a total of 702 minutes. That total sticks him between Diego Walsh and Ivan Trujillo in league minutes played for the team. He made another 6 appearances in all competitions for KC, recording his 1 goal finishing his career with 1, 097 minutes played putting him between Yura Movsisyan and Mark Santel.
Good luck to you Abe.
In his time in KC, Thompson finished having played in 16 league games, starting 8 of them and recording 1 assist for a total of 702 minutes. That total sticks him between Diego Walsh and Ivan Trujillo in league minutes played for the team. He made another 6 appearances in all competitions for KC, recording his 1 goal finishing his career with 1, 097 minutes played putting him between Yura Movsisyan and Mark Santel.
Good luck to you Abe.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Former Wizards Update
It's a day late due to the Chivas-Club America game I went to yesterday.. There's a new former Wizard after Abe Thompson was traded to Houston. I'm still looking for Alex Zotinca, Doug DeMartin, Eloy Colombano, Jose Burciaga, Neal Kitson, Scott Sealy, and Will John. Here's this week's update.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started and played 90 minues in Toronto's 3-2 win over Colorado.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-1 win over DC.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-1 win over Houston on Sunday. Started and playing 90 minutes, recording the shutout in Houston's 1-0 win over Deportivo Saprissa in the CONCACAF Champion's League.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - Came off the bench and played 16 minutes in LA's 6-3 loss to Dallas.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in RSL's 1-1 draw with Chicago.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Did not dress in Chicago's 1-1 draw with RSL.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Started and played 70 minutes before being red carded in Chivas' 2-0 win over New England.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Dressed but did not play in Chivas' 2-0 win over New England.
Abe Thompson - Houston - Did not dress for Houston in their trip to play Pachuca in the CONCACAF Champion's League
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Started and played 69 minutes, scoring a goal in Dallas' 6-3 win over LA.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - On the DL list.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Dressed but did not play in Seattle's 2-1 win over DC.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Came off the bench and played 17 minutes in Charleston's 2-1 win over Miami.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress in Vancouver's 2-1 win over Austin.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Did not dress for Austin in either of their games this week.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Started and played 45 minutes, scoring a goal in Minnesota's 5-2 win over Puerto Rico. Did not dress in Minnesota's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Did not dress in either of Austin's games this past week.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Did not dress in Rochester's 0-0 draw with Miami.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Did not dress in Carolina's 2-1 win over Puerto Rico.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Austin's 2-1 win over Portland. Started and played 75 minutes in Austin's 2-1 loss to Vancouver.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in Miami's 2-1 loss to Charleston. Started and played 90 minutes in Miami's 0-0 draw with Rochester.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minnutes in Portland's 2-1 loss to Austin. Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-0 loss to Cleveland.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 2-1 win over Miami.
International
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Did not dress in Fulham's 2-1 win over Everton.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Did not play in Fingal's 2-1 extra time winn over Shamrock Rovers in the FAI Ford Cup Quarter-Finals.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not dress in Juniors 1-0 win over Newell's Old Boys.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Started and played 67 minutes in Aalesunds' 2-0 win over Lyn Oslo
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in PoPa's 5-2 loss to AC Oulu.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Did not dress in Frankfurt's 3-2 loss to St. Pauli.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Did not dress in Quindío's 3-1 loss to Boyacá Chicó FC.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Did not dress in Wellington's 1-1 draw with Melbourne Victory.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started and played 90 minues in Toronto's 3-2 win over Colorado.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-1 win over DC.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-1 win over Houston on Sunday. Started and playing 90 minutes, recording the shutout in Houston's 1-0 win over Deportivo Saprissa in the CONCACAF Champion's League.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - Came off the bench and played 16 minutes in LA's 6-3 loss to Dallas.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in RSL's 1-1 draw with Chicago.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Did not dress in Chicago's 1-1 draw with RSL.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Started and played 70 minutes before being red carded in Chivas' 2-0 win over New England.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Dressed but did not play in Chivas' 2-0 win over New England.
Abe Thompson - Houston - Did not dress for Houston in their trip to play Pachuca in the CONCACAF Champion's League
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Started and played 69 minutes, scoring a goal in Dallas' 6-3 win over LA.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - On the DL list.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Dressed but did not play in Seattle's 2-1 win over DC.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Came off the bench and played 17 minutes in Charleston's 2-1 win over Miami.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress in Vancouver's 2-1 win over Austin.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Did not dress for Austin in either of their games this week.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Started and played 45 minutes, scoring a goal in Minnesota's 5-2 win over Puerto Rico. Did not dress in Minnesota's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Did not dress in either of Austin's games this past week.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Did not dress in Rochester's 0-0 draw with Miami.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Did not dress in Carolina's 2-1 win over Puerto Rico.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Austin's 2-1 win over Portland. Started and played 75 minutes in Austin's 2-1 loss to Vancouver.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in Miami's 2-1 loss to Charleston. Started and played 90 minutes in Miami's 0-0 draw with Rochester.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minnutes in Portland's 2-1 loss to Austin. Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-0 loss to Cleveland.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 2-1 win over Miami.
International
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Did not dress in Fulham's 2-1 win over Everton.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Did not play in Fingal's 2-1 extra time winn over Shamrock Rovers in the FAI Ford Cup Quarter-Finals.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not dress in Juniors 1-0 win over Newell's Old Boys.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Started and played 67 minutes in Aalesunds' 2-0 win over Lyn Oslo
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in PoPa's 5-2 loss to AC Oulu.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Did not dress in Frankfurt's 3-2 loss to St. Pauli.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Did not dress in Quindío's 3-1 loss to Boyacá Chicó FC.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Did not dress in Wellington's 1-1 draw with Melbourne Victory.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Wednesday News Catch Up
So tonight was the big game out at Arrowhead between Chivas and Club America. First I want to touch on a few other things.
Before the game tonight, the Wizards held a Season Ticket Holder Event out at the training facility that included dinner and a Q&A session with Robb Heineman about the new stadium plan out at the Legends as well as the plan out at Bannister. Here are a few highlights of the event.
- They had more renderings of the stadium tonight, see the picture above, for the full album and some pictures of the game tonight, see here.
- I hope they are old renderings, I really hate the wavy roof.
- The Cauldron end, which I would guess is under the scoreboard is smaller and doesn't appear to have much of a roof in those renderings.
- OnGoal has currently put $33 million into the development out at Bannister.
- They did sign an agreement with the Unified Government meaning they will not negotiate with KCMO for 30 days basically and the state of KS has 30 days from last week to approve the STAR Bonds.
- They'd been talking with places like Walmart, Lowes, Target, etc about building at Bannister, but those places are not looking to build new stores right now, and probably won't be til 2011-2012.
- With that in mind it'd probably be until 2013-2015 before the stadium at Bannister would be done.
Onto other MLS news. The league announced today that they will take a break for a portion of the World Cup this next year. MLS will not play during the group phase of next summer's World Cup. I like this move, you don't want to have to compete with the biggest sporting event in the world, at least not all of it. Once the games become a little more spread out after the group phase, MLS will start back up again. The break will last 15 days, from June 11th to the 25th. It's a smart move by MLS to accommodate their fans who want to watch the World Cup.
Finally, onto tonight's game between Chivas and Club America. A great atmosphere tonight out at Arrowhead, where there was a decent crowd (not the 35,000 Robb predicted at the Q&A but a good number). Both team's started the game with their starters and after a scoreless first half, Club America grabbed the lead in the second. Chivas had an equalizer called back before scoring 2 unanswered to win 2-1. Again I have a few pictures here, as well as a short video on youtube.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Wizards Acquire Kamara
I complain about lack of movement and the next day, what happens? The Wizards make a move. Today (as I tried to post on Twitter, but apparently it didn't go through) the Wizards acquired Houston Dynamo forward, Kei Kamara for Abe Thompson and some allocation money. Kamara is joins the Wizards having scored 5 goals in 20 starts this year for the Dynamo. This is his fourth team in four years in the league. Kamara is currently a Generation Adidas player, but is in his 4th year of his first contract, which likely means it's the last year of his contract and his last year as a Generation Adidas player, meaning next year he'd count against the cap and against the Wizards foreign player allotment next season. Kamara made $65,000 this year and according to the above article was having trouble coming to terms on a new contract with the Dynamo. Still, Kamara brings size and some speed to the Wizards front line. Thompson heads the other way having only played in 8 games this season and fallen down the depth chart at the forward position. His one goal in his year plus with KC came this year in the Open Cup against Minnesota.
Will this move work out for the Wizards? That will remain to be seen, but hopefully the Wizards can turn around the recent form teams have had when they perform trades with the Dynamo, as usually the Dynamo are the ones that come out better in the trade. In the end, good luck to you Abe, and welcome to KC Kei.
Will this move work out for the Wizards? That will remain to be seen, but hopefully the Wizards can turn around the recent form teams have had when they perform trades with the Dynamo, as usually the Dynamo are the ones that come out better in the trade. In the end, good luck to you Abe, and welcome to KC Kei.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Lack of Moment
Tomorrow is the MLS roster freeze date, meaning it's the last day for the Wizards to sign a player. While a move seems unlikely, one has to wonder if that should be the case. The Wizards are still outside the playoffs and while they've won two of their last three on the road, they are still a long shot to get back into the playoffs. With that in mind, why haven't the Wizards looked to bring in another player that can contribute immediately. Over the course of this season, the Wizards have made the fewest moves of any MLS team this season, bringing in Zoltan Hercegfalvi while waiving Nelson Pizarro much earlier in the season. Most other teams, including those still struggling to make the playoffs have made roster moves to try and improve their team. While not all roster moves always work out, they are at least trying different things. The Wizards pinned their "acquisition" hopes on players returning from injury and so far Adam Cristman and Chance Myers haven't really delivered on the field. I'm not saying to make a deal just to make one, but finding some way to improve the team, especially with the lack of finishing overall from the team. It's disappointing that (at least publicly) there has been no attempt to work to improve this team on the field.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Sunday After Stats
Josh Wolff's goal was his 71st career MLS goal, tying him with Ronald Cerritos for 14th on the all time MLS scorers list.
It was Wolff's 5th MLS (and in all competitions) goal against New York in his Wizards career, tying him with Preki and Chris Klein for the most goals by a Wizard against New York.
Wolff's goal was his 11th game winner in all competitions for the Wizards, tying him with Davy Arnaud for 3rd place all time on that list.
In the 58th minute, Wolff moved past Jose Burciaga and into 13th place for the most league minutes played for the Wizards list, he finished the game with 9,432 minutes played.
It was also Wolff's 130th appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga and Uche Okafor for 14th place on the all time list.
Last night was Jimmy Conrad's 300th appearance in all competitions in his MLS career.
In the 60th minute, Kevin Hartman passed Chris Brown to move into 19th place on the list of most league minutes played. Hartman finished the game with 7,560 minutes played.
Last night was also Jack Jewsbury's 183rd appearance for the Wizards in all competitions, tying him with Matt McKeon for 7th on that list.
It was Wolff's 5th MLS (and in all competitions) goal against New York in his Wizards career, tying him with Preki and Chris Klein for the most goals by a Wizard against New York.
Wolff's goal was his 11th game winner in all competitions for the Wizards, tying him with Davy Arnaud for 3rd place all time on that list.
In the 58th minute, Wolff moved past Jose Burciaga and into 13th place for the most league minutes played for the Wizards list, he finished the game with 9,432 minutes played.
It was also Wolff's 130th appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga and Uche Okafor for 14th place on the all time list.
Last night was Jimmy Conrad's 300th appearance in all competitions in his MLS career.
In the 60th minute, Kevin Hartman passed Chris Brown to move into 19th place on the list of most league minutes played. Hartman finished the game with 7,560 minutes played.
Last night was also Jack Jewsbury's 183rd appearance for the Wizards in all competitions, tying him with Matt McKeon for 7th on that list.
3 More Road Points
New York were without their best player, Juan Pablo Angel, and KC had to hold on late, but KC came away with 3 points against the New York Red Bulls last night in New York to finish their road trip with 6 of 9 points. While that's the good news, the Wizards still had trouble finishing off opportunities, and much like Wednesday dominated play but could not find multiple goals.
Once again the Wizards started the game off well pressing the Red Bulls as well as trying to strike on the counter. One of those counters from a Red Bull defensive error led to KC's first goal. Claudio Lopez. Lopez got in behind the Red Bulls defense and was one on one with Bouna Coundoul, but unfortunately just like in New England, Lopez's shot was save. The rebound, though, fell to Josh Wolff who was following the play. Wolff took a touch and fired a shot past Coundoul, who had started to retreat back to his line and into the net to give KC the lead. Throughout the rest of the first half, KC continued to pressure and tried to hit the Red Bulls on the counter. Wolff should have doubled his total when Herculez Gomez played Wolff through with a beautiful ball. Wolff got in alone with Coundoul, but pushed his shot wide of the post. KC continued to pressure but could not find another goal.
In the second half, it was New York that was the more agreesive side, as they pushed the game on Kansas City. The attacks by New York early in the half seemed to come in waves but without many really dangerous chances at the end of those waves. KC almost hit on the counter, as Santiago Hirsig was denied by Condoul in the 57th minute. Kevin Hartman had himself a good game coming up with some big saves in both halves, but also had some moments in question, like coming way too far out of his box and getting beaten by Macoumba Kandji, before recovering to force a corner and not getting enough of a punch on a cross. On the later, Hartman was saved by Jonathan Leathers who headed the following Red Bulls' shot off the line. He made up for it though in the 90th minute as he made a diving save on a redirected shot by Carlos Johnson that was headed inside the near post. That was Red Bulls last really good chance although they pressured right up to the final whistle. After the final whistle, Johnson earned himself his second red card in as many games against KC after a confrontation with Davy Arnaud and Michael Harrington.
Kansas City put together a very good first half, but once again they have trouble with their finish, KC should have been able to find net 2-3 times the way the New York defense was playing. In the second half, KC sat back a little too much trying to protect the lead and New York came out for the second half ready to go. Combine those two things and you get the second half you saw with the Wizards on their heals for much of the half defending like mad men and New York attacking in waves.
Wizards Man of the Match - Jonathan Leathers - If for nothing but that goal line save alone. Overall, though, Leathers had himself a very solid game at right back. He did well to neutralize New York's attacks down that side and was well positioned as the goal line save showed.
Honorable Mention - Kevin Hartman
Player Ratings - Hartman 7, Leathers 7, Conrad 6, Hohlbein 6, Harrington 5, Gomez 5, Hirsig 5, Jewsbury 4, Lopez 5, Arnaud 4, Wolff 6. Subs Zusi 4, Morsink NR
Once again the Wizards started the game off well pressing the Red Bulls as well as trying to strike on the counter. One of those counters from a Red Bull defensive error led to KC's first goal. Claudio Lopez. Lopez got in behind the Red Bulls defense and was one on one with Bouna Coundoul, but unfortunately just like in New England, Lopez's shot was save. The rebound, though, fell to Josh Wolff who was following the play. Wolff took a touch and fired a shot past Coundoul, who had started to retreat back to his line and into the net to give KC the lead. Throughout the rest of the first half, KC continued to pressure and tried to hit the Red Bulls on the counter. Wolff should have doubled his total when Herculez Gomez played Wolff through with a beautiful ball. Wolff got in alone with Coundoul, but pushed his shot wide of the post. KC continued to pressure but could not find another goal.
In the second half, it was New York that was the more agreesive side, as they pushed the game on Kansas City. The attacks by New York early in the half seemed to come in waves but without many really dangerous chances at the end of those waves. KC almost hit on the counter, as Santiago Hirsig was denied by Condoul in the 57th minute. Kevin Hartman had himself a good game coming up with some big saves in both halves, but also had some moments in question, like coming way too far out of his box and getting beaten by Macoumba Kandji, before recovering to force a corner and not getting enough of a punch on a cross. On the later, Hartman was saved by Jonathan Leathers who headed the following Red Bulls' shot off the line. He made up for it though in the 90th minute as he made a diving save on a redirected shot by Carlos Johnson that was headed inside the near post. That was Red Bulls last really good chance although they pressured right up to the final whistle. After the final whistle, Johnson earned himself his second red card in as many games against KC after a confrontation with Davy Arnaud and Michael Harrington.
Kansas City put together a very good first half, but once again they have trouble with their finish, KC should have been able to find net 2-3 times the way the New York defense was playing. In the second half, KC sat back a little too much trying to protect the lead and New York came out for the second half ready to go. Combine those two things and you get the second half you saw with the Wizards on their heals for much of the half defending like mad men and New York attacking in waves.
Wizards Man of the Match - Jonathan Leathers - If for nothing but that goal line save alone. Overall, though, Leathers had himself a very solid game at right back. He did well to neutralize New York's attacks down that side and was well positioned as the goal line save showed.
Honorable Mention - Kevin Hartman
Player Ratings - Hartman 7, Leathers 7, Conrad 6, Hohlbein 6, Harrington 5, Gomez 5, Hirsig 5, Jewsbury 4, Lopez 5, Arnaud 4, Wolff 6. Subs Zusi 4, Morsink NR
Friday, September 11, 2009
Finishing the Road Trip
The Wizards finish their 3 games in 8 days East Coast road trip tomorrow in New York where they take on the Red Bulls. Over the course of this season, the Red Bulls have been the worst team in the league, for a long time flirting with being the worst ever. Since Juan Carlos Osorio resigned though, the Red Bulls are 2-0 under Richie Williams (aka ABMOD). They defeated both Dallas and Columbus at home in the past few weeks before having last weekend off.
Kansas City will be without two players for tomorrow night's game, as Matt Besler picked up his fifth yellow of the season, and Chance Myers was red carded. My thought the Jack Jewsbury was suspended as well were not true, as he'd earned a good behavior bonus last time he'd gotten his fourth card, so Jewsbury is available. With the Wizards playing their 3rd game in 8 days, you would think there would be a couple switches, KC had many good chances against DC, but couldn't finish. Will be interesting to see if anyone gets a break, although I think we'll see a very similar linneup to the DC game.
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Juan Pablo Angel - The two have a mutual respect for each other, as Conrad has called Angel the best striker in the league multiple times, while Angel has called Conrad the best defender. Angel has played well against the Wizards, scoring 6 career goals in his 2 plus seasons with the Red Bulls.
PREDICTION - The Red Bulls are rested, while the Wizards are playing their 3rd game in 8 days. I have a feeling this isn't going to be a pretty game with both teams near the bottom of the league. Still, both teams hold slim playoff hopes so both teams will be needing the win if they want to play on. Unfortunately with Red Bulls recent form, and KC apparently returning to the poor scoring ways. Combine that with the fact that the Wizards haven't won in New York since the 2000 season, a span of 12 games and I'm not too confident in this game.
KC - 0
NYRB - 2 (Angel x2)
Kansas City will be without two players for tomorrow night's game, as Matt Besler picked up his fifth yellow of the season, and Chance Myers was red carded. My thought the Jack Jewsbury was suspended as well were not true, as he'd earned a good behavior bonus last time he'd gotten his fourth card, so Jewsbury is available. With the Wizards playing their 3rd game in 8 days, you would think there would be a couple switches, KC had many good chances against DC, but couldn't finish. Will be interesting to see if anyone gets a break, although I think we'll see a very similar linneup to the DC game.
Hartman
Watson - Conrad - Hohlbein - Harrington
Hirsig
Gomez - Jewsbury - Lopez
Arnaud - Wolff
Watson - Conrad - Hohlbein - Harrington
Hirsig
Gomez - Jewsbury - Lopez
Arnaud - Wolff
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Juan Pablo Angel - The two have a mutual respect for each other, as Conrad has called Angel the best striker in the league multiple times, while Angel has called Conrad the best defender. Angel has played well against the Wizards, scoring 6 career goals in his 2 plus seasons with the Red Bulls.
PREDICTION - The Red Bulls are rested, while the Wizards are playing their 3rd game in 8 days. I have a feeling this isn't going to be a pretty game with both teams near the bottom of the league. Still, both teams hold slim playoff hopes so both teams will be needing the win if they want to play on. Unfortunately with Red Bulls recent form, and KC apparently returning to the poor scoring ways. Combine that with the fact that the Wizards haven't won in New York since the 2000 season, a span of 12 games and I'm not too confident in this game.
KC - 0
NYRB - 2 (Angel x2)
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Continuing Partnership
I'm continuing my partnership with Soccerpro.com, last year I reviewed a pair of their Nike Mercurial Talaria IV FG shoes. Tonight I'm reviewing the 2009-2010 Manchester United Away jersey from Nike. While they are not my top team any more, United was the first professional soccer team that I followed and became a fan of back in the early 90's. As for the jersey, I was actually surprised by the feel of it, it's a lot softer fabric than I am used to from Nike jerseys in the past, unlike previous jerseys by Nike, this one actually feels like I'd be comfortable playing a game in the jersey. The jersey is a NikeFit, which probably is part of the reason why the jersey is actually so comfortable.
I personally wasn't a big fan of the new jersey design for United when I originally saw it, but it's grown on me, and it's at least a unique design unlike what you see from other jersey manufactures, which is another plus for the jersey. And while United is known to wear red, I liked the look of the blue V on the jersey to contrast the red and yellow United badge. Overall I really like the jersey for it's comfort and the unique design of the jersey.
If you're a United fan, but want to stick with United's primary colors, Soccer Pro has a good selection of Manchester United jerseys, including the team's primary jersey, last year's jersey and other Red Devils' apparel. If Manchester United isn't your team, Soccer Pro also has plenty of other teams to choose from.
I personally wasn't a big fan of the new jersey design for United when I originally saw it, but it's grown on me, and it's at least a unique design unlike what you see from other jersey manufactures, which is another plus for the jersey. And while United is known to wear red, I liked the look of the blue V on the jersey to contrast the red and yellow United badge. Overall I really like the jersey for it's comfort and the unique design of the jersey.
If you're a United fan, but want to stick with United's primary colors, Soccer Pro has a good selection of Manchester United jerseys, including the team's primary jersey, last year's jersey and other Red Devils' apparel. If Manchester United isn't your team, Soccer Pro also has plenty of other teams to choose from.
Thursday After Stats
Claudio Lopez made his 50th league appearance for the Wizards.
Herculez Gomez made his 100th start in all competitions in his MLS career.
The red card to Chance Myers was the 13th issued in a Wizards league game this year, setting a new team record for red cards issued in a season, breaking a tie with the 1998 season. The red was also the team's 9th in all competitions this season, setting a team record for red cards received in a season in all competitions, breaking the record set in 02.
In the 24th minute, Kevin Hartman passed Peter Vermes to move into 20th play on the list for most minutes played in all competitions for the Wizards, Hartman finished the game with 8400 minutes played.
Josh Wolff made his 112th league appearance for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Sean Bowers for 16th place on the list.
It was also Wolff's 105th start in league play for KC, once again breaking his tie with Bowers, this time for 14th place.
Herculez Gomez made his 100th start in all competitions in his MLS career.
The red card to Chance Myers was the 13th issued in a Wizards league game this year, setting a new team record for red cards issued in a season, breaking a tie with the 1998 season. The red was also the team's 9th in all competitions this season, setting a team record for red cards received in a season in all competitions, breaking the record set in 02.
In the 24th minute, Kevin Hartman passed Peter Vermes to move into 20th play on the list for most minutes played in all competitions for the Wizards, Hartman finished the game with 8400 minutes played.
Josh Wolff made his 112th league appearance for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Sean Bowers for 16th place on the list.
It was also Wolff's 105th start in league play for KC, once again breaking his tie with Bowers, this time for 14th place.
Missed Chances Come Back to Haunt KC
Kansas City had all the chances in the world last night to not only take 1 point from their game in DC, but to take all 3. Unfortunately poor finishing from the Wizards, particularly Davy Arnaud ended up costing KC as they fell 1-0 to DC last night. KC could have been on top inside the first five minutes, as Claudio Lopez picked out Arnaud with a low cross, but Arnaud's one time effort was right at Josh Wicks in the DC net and easily saved. The Wizards continued to have the better of the chances early on, as Lopez tried to catch Wicks napping on a free kick from a tough angle. Wicks had to push Lopez's shot over the cross bar.
DC started to get into the game a bit more, and Christian Gomez hit the bar with header after a free kick. Jonathan Leathers even got forward into the Wizards attack, as he made a 40 yard run to the edge of the DC box where he shot. Wicks did not hold the shot, but another United player beat Jack Jewsbury to the ball before he could get the rebound. KC once again had multiple opportunities in the 36th minute, as a Herculez Gomez corner was partially cleared to Lopez, who crossed back into the box to Jimmy Conrad. Conrad put his first effort off the cross bar, the rebound fell back to Conrad, but his second attempt was right at Wicks. United still failed to clear and Josh Wolff missed on a bicycle attempt after Jewsbury had his shot blocked.
United responded and got on the board just after that off of a short corner. United played it short, then crossed to the back post where Chris Pontius put his shot off the base of the post. The rebound fell to Luciano Emilio unmarked on the other side of the goal and Emilio finished to give United the lead. KC should have been able to respond soon after that, as Lopez worked his way down the wing and played in a great cross to an unmarked Arnaud at the far post, but Arnaud, with the whole goal basically to shoot for, put his header wide of the near post.
In the second half, KC's best chance again fell to Arnaud. In the 64th minute, Wolff headed a cross back into the path of Arnaud who did well to control the ball, turned and let loose a shot, but from 14 yards out he put it over the bar. As the rest of the game wore on, KC tired out and failed to launch meaningful attacks as KC was shut out for the 5th time in 6 games. KC finished the game with 10 men after Chance Myers was shown a second yellow card in the 86th, effectively killing the game. KC will now travel to New York, where they will be without Myers, Jack Jewsbury, and Matt Besler all of whom are now suspended.
Overall the performance was good, especially the first 60 minutes, KC looked active and were creating chances, unfortunately the one part lacking in KC's game was finishing, particularly from Davy Arnaud who had a hattrick of chances but couldn't finish any of them. The chances were created and most teams would kill for the type of chances KC got, but this team continues to struggle with finding the back of the net.
Wizards Man of the Match - Claudio Lopez - Lopez set up multiple chances last night that regularly should be finished, chances by Arnaud and Conrad in particular were off of great crosses by Lopez. Better finishing and Lopez has 3-4 assists last night.
Player Ratings - Hartman 5, Leathers 5, Conrad 6, Besler 5, Harrington 5, Gomez 5, Hirsig 5, Jewsbury 4, Lopez 6, Wolff 5, Arnaud 4. Subs Myers 3, Zoltan 3, Zusi NR.
DC started to get into the game a bit more, and Christian Gomez hit the bar with header after a free kick. Jonathan Leathers even got forward into the Wizards attack, as he made a 40 yard run to the edge of the DC box where he shot. Wicks did not hold the shot, but another United player beat Jack Jewsbury to the ball before he could get the rebound. KC once again had multiple opportunities in the 36th minute, as a Herculez Gomez corner was partially cleared to Lopez, who crossed back into the box to Jimmy Conrad. Conrad put his first effort off the cross bar, the rebound fell back to Conrad, but his second attempt was right at Wicks. United still failed to clear and Josh Wolff missed on a bicycle attempt after Jewsbury had his shot blocked.
United responded and got on the board just after that off of a short corner. United played it short, then crossed to the back post where Chris Pontius put his shot off the base of the post. The rebound fell to Luciano Emilio unmarked on the other side of the goal and Emilio finished to give United the lead. KC should have been able to respond soon after that, as Lopez worked his way down the wing and played in a great cross to an unmarked Arnaud at the far post, but Arnaud, with the whole goal basically to shoot for, put his header wide of the near post.
In the second half, KC's best chance again fell to Arnaud. In the 64th minute, Wolff headed a cross back into the path of Arnaud who did well to control the ball, turned and let loose a shot, but from 14 yards out he put it over the bar. As the rest of the game wore on, KC tired out and failed to launch meaningful attacks as KC was shut out for the 5th time in 6 games. KC finished the game with 10 men after Chance Myers was shown a second yellow card in the 86th, effectively killing the game. KC will now travel to New York, where they will be without Myers, Jack Jewsbury, and Matt Besler all of whom are now suspended.
Overall the performance was good, especially the first 60 minutes, KC looked active and were creating chances, unfortunately the one part lacking in KC's game was finishing, particularly from Davy Arnaud who had a hattrick of chances but couldn't finish any of them. The chances were created and most teams would kill for the type of chances KC got, but this team continues to struggle with finding the back of the net.
Wizards Man of the Match - Claudio Lopez - Lopez set up multiple chances last night that regularly should be finished, chances by Arnaud and Conrad in particular were off of great crosses by Lopez. Better finishing and Lopez has 3-4 assists last night.
Player Ratings - Hartman 5, Leathers 5, Conrad 6, Besler 5, Harrington 5, Gomez 5, Hirsig 5, Jewsbury 4, Lopez 6, Wolff 5, Arnaud 4. Subs Myers 3, Zoltan 3, Zusi NR.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Unified Government Endorses Stadium
After what seemed like a really slow process when dealing with the city of Kansas City about the 3 Trails Development, things seem to be moving a lot faster with the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and the development out at the Legends. Earlier today, after the story came out, the Unified Government called a special meeting to review the stadium complex. The results of that meeting are in, and the Unified Government has endorsed the deal for the stadium and Cerner offices. The deal is now contingent on the state of Kansas approving the use of proceeds from the current STAR Bonds for the Village West area. There will also be $173 million in subordinate bonds that will be sold as well to help fund the development.
The bonds would be used for the stadium, while $20.5 million in state tax credits would help with the Cerner office complex (which would be the largest single job-creation program in the history of Wyandotte County according to the Unified Government mayor).
The bonds would be used for the stadium, while $20.5 million in state tax credits would help with the Cerner office complex (which would be the largest single job-creation program in the history of Wyandotte County according to the Unified Government mayor).
International Week Former Wizards Update
With most former Wizards outside of USL off this week due to the international break, there wasn't a whole lot going on, but a few players did make their appearance worth it.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started and played 45 minutes in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Colorado.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Seattle did not have a game this week.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Columbus did not have a game this week.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - LA did not have a game this week.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - RSL did not play this week.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Chicago did not play this week.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Chivas did not play this week.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Chivas did not play this week.
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Started and played 73 minutes, recording 2 assists in FC Dallas' 2-2 draw with Dallas.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - Chivas did not play this week.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Seattle did not have a game this week.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Did not dress in Charleston's 3-1 loss to Minnesota.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress in Vancouver's 1-1 draw with Minnesota last Friday. Did not dress in Vancouver's 1-0 loss to Montreal Wednesday night.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Came off the bench and played 30 minutes in Austin's 3-1 loss to Miami on Saturday. Started and played only 8 minutes in Austin's 1-0 loss to Portland on Monday, rumor according to Austin fans is that he may have tore his ACL.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Dressed but did not play in Minnesota's 1-1 draw with Vancouver. Started and played 89 minutes, recording an assist in Minnesota's 3-1 win over Charleston.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Dressed but did not play in Austin's 3-1 loss to Miami. Did not dress in Austin's 1-0 loss to Portland.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Started and played 90 minutes in Rochester's 2-1 win over Portland. Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in Rochester's 2-0 loss to Puerto Rico. Started and played 90 minutes in Rochester's 2-1 win over Miami.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Did not dress in Carolina's 2-0 loss to Puerto Rico.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Started and played 60 minutes in Austin's 3-1 loss to Miami. Came off the bench and played 82 minutes in Austin's 1-0 loss to Portland.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Started and played 78 minutes, recording an assist in Miami's 3-1 win over Austin. Started and played 62 minutes in Miami's 2-1 loss to Rochester.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Portland's 2-1 loss to Rochester. Started and played 88 minutes in Portland's 1-0 winn over Austin.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes inn Charleston's 3-1 loss to Minnesota.
International
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Fulham did not play this week due to the international break.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Dressed but did not play in Sporting's 1-0 win over UCD.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not have a game this week due to the international break.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Did not have a game this week due to the international break.
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in PoPa's 2-1 win over TPV.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Did not play this week due to the international break.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Off this week due to the international break.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Came off the bench and played 6 minutes inn Wellington's 1-1 draw with Adelaide United.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started and played 45 minutes in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Colorado.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Seattle did not have a game this week.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Columbus did not have a game this week.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - LA did not have a game this week.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - RSL did not play this week.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Chicago did not play this week.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Chivas did not play this week.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Chivas did not play this week.
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Started and played 73 minutes, recording 2 assists in FC Dallas' 2-2 draw with Dallas.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - Chivas did not play this week.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Seattle did not have a game this week.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Did not dress in Charleston's 3-1 loss to Minnesota.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress in Vancouver's 1-1 draw with Minnesota last Friday. Did not dress in Vancouver's 1-0 loss to Montreal Wednesday night.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Came off the bench and played 30 minutes in Austin's 3-1 loss to Miami on Saturday. Started and played only 8 minutes in Austin's 1-0 loss to Portland on Monday, rumor according to Austin fans is that he may have tore his ACL.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Dressed but did not play in Minnesota's 1-1 draw with Vancouver. Started and played 89 minutes, recording an assist in Minnesota's 3-1 win over Charleston.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Dressed but did not play in Austin's 3-1 loss to Miami. Did not dress in Austin's 1-0 loss to Portland.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Started and played 90 minutes in Rochester's 2-1 win over Portland. Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in Rochester's 2-0 loss to Puerto Rico. Started and played 90 minutes in Rochester's 2-1 win over Miami.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Did not dress in Carolina's 2-0 loss to Puerto Rico.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Started and played 60 minutes in Austin's 3-1 loss to Miami. Came off the bench and played 82 minutes in Austin's 1-0 loss to Portland.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Started and played 78 minutes, recording an assist in Miami's 3-1 win over Austin. Started and played 62 minutes in Miami's 2-1 loss to Rochester.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Portland's 2-1 loss to Rochester. Started and played 88 minutes in Portland's 1-0 winn over Austin.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes inn Charleston's 3-1 loss to Minnesota.
International
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Fulham did not play this week due to the international break.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Dressed but did not play in Sporting's 1-0 win over UCD.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not have a game this week due to the international break.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Did not have a game this week due to the international break.
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in PoPa's 2-1 win over TPV.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Did not play this week due to the international break.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Off this week due to the international break.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Came off the bench and played 6 minutes inn Wellington's 1-1 draw with Adelaide United.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
New Stadium Site for Wizards
It's been a while since Wizards fans have heard anything about what was going on out at the old Bannister Mall site. The last we heard was that the project had stalled due to the state of the economy. It had also been a while since we'd heard from team president, Robb Heineman. Well now we hear about and from both at the same time. Heineman returned to post on Bigsoccer tonight with an update on the stadium situation. For those (like myself) who were fans of the Baninster location, it's not the best news, as it appears that the Bannister location is now moving to the back burner.
Instead, it looks like the Wizards and OnGoal have been working with the Unified Government and the State of Kansas on a potential stadium site, likely out in the Legends area (which has been a rumor making the rounds lately). It's good to see that the team is not just sitting around waiting for the economy to pick back up, but it sucks that a site more centrally located to the metro is now taking a back seat.
Still, it's good to see movement on this front. Also, it's my understanding that the deal at Bannister is not dead yet, and I wouldn't expect it to be after the time and money OnGoal has already put into it. In fact, an announcement on this deal could force the hand of the city of Kansas City and force some movement to try and keep the project at Banister alive. The team can't wait around forever for it, even if it is a more central location, as Heineman says, they need a stadium deal done fast.
UPDATE: The Star article about the project is up on the Star's website with more information on exactly where the stadium would go. It would be basically right across the street from Nebraska Furniture Mart, who actually were the ones to approach the team about the site out at the Legends. Like the plan out at Bannister, the new plan will include youth soccer fields as well as an office complex for Cerner. Basically it will become what the Bannister project was going to be, but with the commercial aspect already in place. The Star also had a preliminary drawing of what the new site will look like.
Instead, it looks like the Wizards and OnGoal have been working with the Unified Government and the State of Kansas on a potential stadium site, likely out in the Legends area (which has been a rumor making the rounds lately). It's good to see that the team is not just sitting around waiting for the economy to pick back up, but it sucks that a site more centrally located to the metro is now taking a back seat.
Still, it's good to see movement on this front. Also, it's my understanding that the deal at Bannister is not dead yet, and I wouldn't expect it to be after the time and money OnGoal has already put into it. In fact, an announcement on this deal could force the hand of the city of Kansas City and force some movement to try and keep the project at Banister alive. The team can't wait around forever for it, even if it is a more central location, as Heineman says, they need a stadium deal done fast.
UPDATE: The Star article about the project is up on the Star's website with more information on exactly where the stadium would go. It would be basically right across the street from Nebraska Furniture Mart, who actually were the ones to approach the team about the site out at the Legends. Like the plan out at Bannister, the new plan will include youth soccer fields as well as an office complex for Cerner. Basically it will become what the Bannister project was going to be, but with the commercial aspect already in place. The Star also had a preliminary drawing of what the new site will look like.
Continuing on the Road
The Wizards are back in action tomorrow night as they'll take on DC United at RFK Stadium in the second game of their 3 game East Coast road trip. This game is the rescheduled game from back in August that was moved so DC could play Real Madrid. DC has been busy the past few weeks, as they've basically been playing two games a week for most of the past two months. Combine that with the mounting injury issues that they have, and there could be some tired legs out there tomorrow night for United. Still, United can pull themselves back into the Supporters' Shield race with a win, so they won't just roll over.
KC helped themselves greatly Saturday with their win in New England and can further help that if they were to win again or even get a point in DC. They've gotten back on the scorers sheet and have gotten 3 points again, which has to help the confidence. Does Peter Vermes stick with the same lineup that got him the 3 points in New England, knowing that they'll be playing again on Saturday in New York? Or does he make a change or two from that lineup? Getting the win, I think we'll see the same lineup, but depending on the way the game is going, we'll see subs for Josh Wolff and Claudio Lopez a little earlier in the game this tomorrow.
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Luciano Emilio - Emilio didn't start on the weekend in Dallas, giving him a chance to rest his legs a bit after the busy schedule they've had. Matching up with Emilio, Conrad (who hasn't looked completely himself since returning from his concussion) will have his hands full dealing with DC's designated player.
PREDICTION - I haven't done a complete 180 on this team after the one result against New England on Saturday, but now that they've started scoring goals again (specifically Wolff, who is a streaky striker), you do have to feel a little better going up against a DC team that is depleted and a little tired. Still, KC hasn't won back to back road games, since they won 3 road games in a row back in 2005.
KC - 1 (Wolff)
DC - 1 (Moreno)
KC helped themselves greatly Saturday with their win in New England and can further help that if they were to win again or even get a point in DC. They've gotten back on the scorers sheet and have gotten 3 points again, which has to help the confidence. Does Peter Vermes stick with the same lineup that got him the 3 points in New England, knowing that they'll be playing again on Saturday in New York? Or does he make a change or two from that lineup? Getting the win, I think we'll see the same lineup, but depending on the way the game is going, we'll see subs for Josh Wolff and Claudio Lopez a little earlier in the game this tomorrow.
Hartman
Watson - Conrad - Besler - Harrington
Hirsig
Gomez - Jewsbury - Lopez
Arnaud - Wolff
Watson - Conrad - Besler - Harrington
Hirsig
Gomez - Jewsbury - Lopez
Arnaud - Wolff
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Luciano Emilio - Emilio didn't start on the weekend in Dallas, giving him a chance to rest his legs a bit after the busy schedule they've had. Matching up with Emilio, Conrad (who hasn't looked completely himself since returning from his concussion) will have his hands full dealing with DC's designated player.
PREDICTION - I haven't done a complete 180 on this team after the one result against New England on Saturday, but now that they've started scoring goals again (specifically Wolff, who is a streaky striker), you do have to feel a little better going up against a DC team that is depleted and a little tired. Still, KC hasn't won back to back road games, since they won 3 road games in a row back in 2005.
KC - 1 (Wolff)
DC - 1 (Moreno)
Wolff Named Player of the Week
There were only 3 league games this past weekend, but even on a weekend with a full slate of games, Josh Wolff's performance against New England would earn him player of the week. Still, Saturday night in New England, Wolff played a part in all 4 of the Wizards goals in their 4-2 win over the Revolution. Wolff's run down the right wing and pass into the middle that deflected to Claudio Lopez set up the first goal. Wolff helped to make it 2-0 with a strong run past 2 Revolution defenders before crossing into the middle where his cross was deflected innto the net by Jay Heaps. He made it 3-1 with his first goal since May after capitalizing on Brad Knighton's inability to hold onto the ball. He finished out the scroing with a great volley after a cross from Chance Myers. It's Wolff's 3rd player of the week award of the season.
Hartman Up for Save of the Week
None of the Wizards 4 goals this past week made it into the voting for Goal of the Week this week, but Kevin Hartman is up for Save of the Week this week. Hartman's save is his reaction stop on a volley by Edgaras Jankauskas early in the first half. You can see the save below.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Sunday After Stats
Funny how when you score all these stats come up. Anyways, TONS of stats from last night's game, plenty of them have to do with Josh Wolff and his performance.
Josh Wolff's second goal last night, was the Wizards 600th in league play. KC is the 7th MLS team to hit that mark. Wolff also scored the team's 400th goal back in 2005 against Colorado.
Wolff's 2 goals give him 70 in league play for his MLS career, tying him with Cobi Jones for 15th place on that list.
The two goals also gave Wolff 80 goals in all competitions in his MLS career, moving him out of his tie with Dwayne DeRosario and pass Ronald Cerritos into 15th place on that list as well.
Wolff's 2 goals also moved him back ahead of Davy Arnaud and into second place on the Wizards' MLS goal scorers' list. Wolff now has 38, one ahead of Arnaud and one behind Chris Klein.
Wolff's game winner was his 9th for the Wizards in MLS play, breaking a tie with Davy Arnaud and Digital Takawira for 3rd place on that list.
It was also Wolff's 10th game winner in all competitions for KC, breaking a tie with Miklos Molnar for 4th place on that list.
In the 17th minute, Wolff passed Sean Bowers to move into 14th place for minutes played in league play for the Wizards. Wolff finished the game with 9,252 minutes played.
In the 79th minute, Wolff passed Jose Burciaga moving into 12th place on the minutes in all competitions list for Kansas City.
Last night was Wolff's 111th appearance in league play for the Wizards, tying him with Sean Bowers for 16th place on that list.
It was Wolff's 104th start in league play for the Wizards, tying him with Bowers for 14th place on that list.
Wolff also started his 117th game for the Wizards in all competitions, breaking his tie with Uche Okafor for 13th place on that list.
The Wizards goalless streak ended 1 minute short of tying the team record for a single season. Claudio Lopez's goal ended the streak at 426 minutes.
Lopez started his 50th game in all competitions for the Wizards.
Lopez's goal moved him into a tie with Igor Simutenkov, Miklos Molnar, Chris Henderson, and Jack Jewsbury for 15th place on the list of most goals by Wizards in MLS play with 12.
Lopez's goal was also his 14th in all competitions for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Jack Jewsbury and Chris Henderson for 18th place on that list.
Kevin Hartman made his 400th appearance in all competitions in his MLS career.
It was Hartman's 92nd start in all competitions for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Peter Vermes for 20th on that list.
Sharlie Joseph's red card was the 7th issued to a Wizards opponent this season in league play, which sets a team record. It was also the 12th issued in a Wizards league game this season, tying the record for most red cards in a season, set by the 98 team.
The red card was the 9th by a Wizards opponent and 16th overall in all competitions for the Wizards this season, both continue to set team records.
New England and Gillette specifically is a second home to the Wizards. Since Gillette opened in 2002, the Wizards are 7-1-6 (W-L-D) in all competitions there.
In the last 5 games the Wizards and Revolution have played in all competitions, there have been 6 red cards handed out, 5 of them to New England.
Also in the last 5 games against the Revolution, they have gifted the Wizards 4 own goals.
Josh Wolff's second goal last night, was the Wizards 600th in league play. KC is the 7th MLS team to hit that mark. Wolff also scored the team's 400th goal back in 2005 against Colorado.
Wolff's 2 goals give him 70 in league play for his MLS career, tying him with Cobi Jones for 15th place on that list.
The two goals also gave Wolff 80 goals in all competitions in his MLS career, moving him out of his tie with Dwayne DeRosario and pass Ronald Cerritos into 15th place on that list as well.
Wolff's 2 goals also moved him back ahead of Davy Arnaud and into second place on the Wizards' MLS goal scorers' list. Wolff now has 38, one ahead of Arnaud and one behind Chris Klein.
Wolff's game winner was his 9th for the Wizards in MLS play, breaking a tie with Davy Arnaud and Digital Takawira for 3rd place on that list.
It was also Wolff's 10th game winner in all competitions for KC, breaking a tie with Miklos Molnar for 4th place on that list.
In the 17th minute, Wolff passed Sean Bowers to move into 14th place for minutes played in league play for the Wizards. Wolff finished the game with 9,252 minutes played.
In the 79th minute, Wolff passed Jose Burciaga moving into 12th place on the minutes in all competitions list for Kansas City.
Last night was Wolff's 111th appearance in league play for the Wizards, tying him with Sean Bowers for 16th place on that list.
It was Wolff's 104th start in league play for the Wizards, tying him with Bowers for 14th place on that list.
Wolff also started his 117th game for the Wizards in all competitions, breaking his tie with Uche Okafor for 13th place on that list.
The Wizards goalless streak ended 1 minute short of tying the team record for a single season. Claudio Lopez's goal ended the streak at 426 minutes.
Lopez started his 50th game in all competitions for the Wizards.
Lopez's goal moved him into a tie with Igor Simutenkov, Miklos Molnar, Chris Henderson, and Jack Jewsbury for 15th place on the list of most goals by Wizards in MLS play with 12.
Lopez's goal was also his 14th in all competitions for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Jack Jewsbury and Chris Henderson for 18th place on that list.
Kevin Hartman made his 400th appearance in all competitions in his MLS career.
It was Hartman's 92nd start in all competitions for the Wizards, breaking a tie with Peter Vermes for 20th on that list.
Sharlie Joseph's red card was the 7th issued to a Wizards opponent this season in league play, which sets a team record. It was also the 12th issued in a Wizards league game this season, tying the record for most red cards in a season, set by the 98 team.
The red card was the 9th by a Wizards opponent and 16th overall in all competitions for the Wizards this season, both continue to set team records.
New England and Gillette specifically is a second home to the Wizards. Since Gillette opened in 2002, the Wizards are 7-1-6 (W-L-D) in all competitions there.
In the last 5 games the Wizards and Revolution have played in all competitions, there have been 6 red cards handed out, 5 of them to New England.
Also in the last 5 games against the Revolution, they have gifted the Wizards 4 own goals.
No Place Like Our (Second) Home
It took a trip to Gillette Stadium, the Wizards second home to not only end the team's scoreless streak, but their winless streak as well. KC took care of business and came away 4-2 winners on the road for their first win since beating New England at home back in June.
Coming into the game, the team was minutes away from setting a single season goal scoring futility record. Claudio Lopez ended all of that though in the 3rd minute when a deflected pass by Josh Wolff made it's way to Lopez who made no mistake as he put the shot pass Revolution keeper Brad Knighton. Kansas City to have some good possession early and were getting chances but were unable to finish them. Just when the Revolution were starting to get into the game though, Sharlie Joseph was shown a red card for a studs up challenge on Jack Jewsbury although it didn't look like Joseph made much of any contact with Jewsbury. KC regained control of the game and Wolff helped make it 2-0 as he made a 35 yard run into the Revolution's box before squaring a ball back looking for Davy Arnaud. His pass though deflected off of two Revolution defenders and into their own net, doubling KC's lead. KC continued to attack throughout the rest of the half, with Herculez Gomez having a lot of space down the right side to attack with, and if KC had gotten more runners into the box it could have been 3 or 4 before half time even.
In the second half, it was the Revolution, a man down, that started the half by dictating the tempo and they were justly rewarded when Edgaras Jankauskas hit a fantastic volley that Kevin Hartman had no chance at in the 64th. It should have been 3-1 only minutes later when Lopez broke through behind the Revolution defense, but 1v1 with the keeper, Lopez ended up having his shot saved by Knighton's foot. The Revolution were continuing to look for the equalizer and KC once again had trouble clearing their end. When they did, though, they appeared to put the game to rest, as Lopez picked out Wolff as he made a diagonal run into the box. Knighton was quick off his line and intercepted the ball, but couldn't hold on. The ball fell to Wolff who made no mistake turning and putting the ball into the roof of the net to make it 3-1. Still, the Revolution wouldn't go away and in the 81st made it a one goal game again, as Kheli Dube got in front of Jimmy Conrad and headed in a Sainey Nyassi cross to make it 3-2. In second half stoppage time, KC finally completely killed the game when Chance Myers picked out Wolff who was making a back post run. Wolff one timed Myers' cross into the net for the Wizards 600th league goal and start the 3 game road trip off right.
Overall a good performance by KC, even before the red card, they looked good and dangerous going forward and creating chances. This time they were actually able to finish the chances. They took advantage of the red card and were able to put more balls into the net. They did allow the Revolution to stay in the game, which is the troubling thing, but when it did come down to it, the Wizards stepped up, found another goal or two and took all 3 points from a game that they had to have. A good way to start off the road trip.
Wizards Man of the Match - Josh Wolff - Had a hand in all 4 of the Wizards goals last night, his initial run and pass led to Lopez's goal. He made a fantastic run AT DEFENDERS to set up the own goal and then scored 2 very typical poacher goals himself. A good performance from Wolff.
Honorable Mention - Claudio Lopez
Player Ratings - Hartman 6, Watson 5, Conrad 4, Besler 4, Harrington 5, Gomez 5, Hirsig 5, Jewsbury 5, Lopez 6, Arnaud 5, Wolff 8. Subs Myers 6, Zusi NR, Zoltan NR
Coming into the game, the team was minutes away from setting a single season goal scoring futility record. Claudio Lopez ended all of that though in the 3rd minute when a deflected pass by Josh Wolff made it's way to Lopez who made no mistake as he put the shot pass Revolution keeper Brad Knighton. Kansas City to have some good possession early and were getting chances but were unable to finish them. Just when the Revolution were starting to get into the game though, Sharlie Joseph was shown a red card for a studs up challenge on Jack Jewsbury although it didn't look like Joseph made much of any contact with Jewsbury. KC regained control of the game and Wolff helped make it 2-0 as he made a 35 yard run into the Revolution's box before squaring a ball back looking for Davy Arnaud. His pass though deflected off of two Revolution defenders and into their own net, doubling KC's lead. KC continued to attack throughout the rest of the half, with Herculez Gomez having a lot of space down the right side to attack with, and if KC had gotten more runners into the box it could have been 3 or 4 before half time even.
In the second half, it was the Revolution, a man down, that started the half by dictating the tempo and they were justly rewarded when Edgaras Jankauskas hit a fantastic volley that Kevin Hartman had no chance at in the 64th. It should have been 3-1 only minutes later when Lopez broke through behind the Revolution defense, but 1v1 with the keeper, Lopez ended up having his shot saved by Knighton's foot. The Revolution were continuing to look for the equalizer and KC once again had trouble clearing their end. When they did, though, they appeared to put the game to rest, as Lopez picked out Wolff as he made a diagonal run into the box. Knighton was quick off his line and intercepted the ball, but couldn't hold on. The ball fell to Wolff who made no mistake turning and putting the ball into the roof of the net to make it 3-1. Still, the Revolution wouldn't go away and in the 81st made it a one goal game again, as Kheli Dube got in front of Jimmy Conrad and headed in a Sainey Nyassi cross to make it 3-2. In second half stoppage time, KC finally completely killed the game when Chance Myers picked out Wolff who was making a back post run. Wolff one timed Myers' cross into the net for the Wizards 600th league goal and start the 3 game road trip off right.
Overall a good performance by KC, even before the red card, they looked good and dangerous going forward and creating chances. This time they were actually able to finish the chances. They took advantage of the red card and were able to put more balls into the net. They did allow the Revolution to stay in the game, which is the troubling thing, but when it did come down to it, the Wizards stepped up, found another goal or two and took all 3 points from a game that they had to have. A good way to start off the road trip.
Wizards Man of the Match - Josh Wolff - Had a hand in all 4 of the Wizards goals last night, his initial run and pass led to Lopez's goal. He made a fantastic run AT DEFENDERS to set up the own goal and then scored 2 very typical poacher goals himself. A good performance from Wolff.
Honorable Mention - Claudio Lopez
Player Ratings - Hartman 6, Watson 5, Conrad 4, Besler 4, Harrington 5, Gomez 5, Hirsig 5, Jewsbury 5, Lopez 6, Arnaud 5, Wolff 8. Subs Myers 6, Zusi NR, Zoltan NR
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Club vs Country
Today and Wednesday, Wizards fans have choices to make. Because on both days, not only do the Wizards play, but so do the US national team. Today while the Wizards play in New England, the USA will be playing El Salvador. And on Wednesday while the Wizards play DC, the US will be taking on Trinidad and Tobago.
Fans now have a decision to make on which team is going to get the majority of their attention for those four games. As a whole, this is an issue that MLS has to deal with eventually. The issue of MLS playing on FIFA international dates is one that Commissioner Don Garber has commented on in the past saying that MLS can not give up weekend dates at this time due to the poor drawing ability of midweek games and the climate in many of the leagues cities that keep the league from starting earlier.
That point aside, I personally am a club over country person. My attention both tonight and on Wednesday will be focused first on the Wizards. I focus on the team that means more to me, and that is my team that I can see play live multiple times during the year (no matter how poorly they are playing right now). Don't get me wrong, I still support the US team and cheer them on when they are playing, but when it comes down to a conflict of teams, I'll choose the Wizards every time. They're the team I feel more of a connection to, probably because of the fact that they are KC's team, they are right here in front of me, I can see them all the time.
People may completely disagree with me, saying I should support my country first, that they're the better team, or that country should be above club. To me, it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter the lack of quality from them or MLS as a whole, they are "my" team and I'll be supporting them over any team, any time.
Fans now have a decision to make on which team is going to get the majority of their attention for those four games. As a whole, this is an issue that MLS has to deal with eventually. The issue of MLS playing on FIFA international dates is one that Commissioner Don Garber has commented on in the past saying that MLS can not give up weekend dates at this time due to the poor drawing ability of midweek games and the climate in many of the leagues cities that keep the league from starting earlier.
That point aside, I personally am a club over country person. My attention both tonight and on Wednesday will be focused first on the Wizards. I focus on the team that means more to me, and that is my team that I can see play live multiple times during the year (no matter how poorly they are playing right now). Don't get me wrong, I still support the US team and cheer them on when they are playing, but when it comes down to a conflict of teams, I'll choose the Wizards every time. They're the team I feel more of a connection to, probably because of the fact that they are KC's team, they are right here in front of me, I can see them all the time.
People may completely disagree with me, saying I should support my country first, that they're the better team, or that country should be above club. To me, it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter the lack of quality from them or MLS as a whole, they are "my" team and I'll be supporting them over any team, any time.
The Winless Streak
Today I was looking at the Wizards current winless streak and got a little depressed about it, so I figured I'd depress everyone else with the information as well.
It's been 84 days since the Wizards last won a game when they defeated tonight's opponent, the Revolution, 3-1. In that time frame, the Wizards have played 7 league games, 12 in all competitions, all without a single win. The Wizards have scored a grand total of 1 goal in league play during that stretch, 6 goals in all competitions (3 of which came against Minnesota). The one goal the Wizards did score in league wasn't even from the Wizards offensive half of the field!
The team is on the verge of setting a team record for goal scoring futility in one season, as they haven't scored a goal in 424 minutes. The record, set in 2000 is 427 minutes. The all time record for the Wizards, though, is 639 set in the 98 and 99 season. With Claudio Lopez's goal from midfield, the Wizards have scored 1 goal in 681 minutes of league play. Over 11 and a half hours of soccer with only 1 goal scored.
It's been 84 days since the Wizards last won a game when they defeated tonight's opponent, the Revolution, 3-1. In that time frame, the Wizards have played 7 league games, 12 in all competitions, all without a single win. The Wizards have scored a grand total of 1 goal in league play during that stretch, 6 goals in all competitions (3 of which came against Minnesota). The one goal the Wizards did score in league wasn't even from the Wizards offensive half of the field!
The team is on the verge of setting a team record for goal scoring futility in one season, as they haven't scored a goal in 424 minutes. The record, set in 2000 is 427 minutes. The all time record for the Wizards, though, is 639 set in the 98 and 99 season. With Claudio Lopez's goal from midfield, the Wizards have scored 1 goal in 681 minutes of league play. Over 11 and a half hours of soccer with only 1 goal scored.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Starting the East Coast Road Trip Still Winless
Tomorrow, it will have been 12 weeks since the Wizards won a game. And the Wizards begin their 3 game East Coast road trip as they take on the New England Revolution. If the Wizards don't score inside the first 3 minutes, they'll set a single season team record for scoring futility, originally set by the 2000 Wizards. There is some good news heading into this game though, traditionally Gillette has been a second home to the Wizards, as they are now 6-1-6 (W-L-D) at the stadium since it opened in 2002. The Revolution sit 12 points clear of the Wizards heading into the game this weekend and are in the middle of a fight to get into the playoffs. If the Wizards want a chance at the playoffs they need to start scoring and they need to start getting points.
The scoring drought has continued and it just doesn't feel like there is an end in sight. The team is creating some chances each game but watching the team I honestly don't expect them to score. I think we could see another change or two to the lineup, as Josh Wolff is off the injury list and could be back. Also after his performance against RSL, Zoltan Hercegfalvi could get the start too. Here's what we could potentially see tomorrow.
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Sharlie Joseph - Joseph is still one of the best players in the league and will be a handful matched up against Conrad tomorrow. Whether it's just on set pieces or as Joseph as a forward, Conrad will have to be at his best to get the better of the match up.
PREDICTION - While New England has been a second home to the Wizards lately, I'm not confident, this team basically needs a make over. Whether that be starting an extremely young team or just benching certain players who now appear too comfortable in their position, something needs to happen. I just don't see it happening this weekend though, KC is in a deep rut and I just can't see it ending. Honestly, a fluke goal, an iffy PK converted, or even an own goal could change everything, but with how pathetic the offense has been it's hard to see.
KC - 0
NE - 1 (Joseph)
The scoring drought has continued and it just doesn't feel like there is an end in sight. The team is creating some chances each game but watching the team I honestly don't expect them to score. I think we could see another change or two to the lineup, as Josh Wolff is off the injury list and could be back. Also after his performance against RSL, Zoltan Hercegfalvi could get the start too. Here's what we could potentially see tomorrow.
Hartman
Watson - Conrad - Besler - Harrington
Hirsig
Arnaud - Jewsbury - Lopez
Wolff - Zoltan
Watson - Conrad - Besler - Harrington
Hirsig
Arnaud - Jewsbury - Lopez
Wolff - Zoltan
Key Match Up - Jimmy Conrad vs Sharlie Joseph - Joseph is still one of the best players in the league and will be a handful matched up against Conrad tomorrow. Whether it's just on set pieces or as Joseph as a forward, Conrad will have to be at his best to get the better of the match up.
PREDICTION - While New England has been a second home to the Wizards lately, I'm not confident, this team basically needs a make over. Whether that be starting an extremely young team or just benching certain players who now appear too comfortable in their position, something needs to happen. I just don't see it happening this weekend though, KC is in a deep rut and I just can't see it ending. Honestly, a fluke goal, an iffy PK converted, or even an own goal could change everything, but with how pathetic the offense has been it's hard to see.
KC - 0
NE - 1 (Joseph)
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Former Wizards Update UPDATED
Here is this week's former Wizards update, we have a new addition to the list, as Chris Konopka has been found in Ireland again, having signed with Sporting Fingal FC. Also appears that Scott Sealy was trialing in Turkey with Ankaragucu after leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv. Still trying to find Alex Zotinca, Doug DeMartin, Eloy Colombano, Jose Burciaga, Neal Kitson, and Will John, if any of them are still playing.
Four former Wizards also lifted silverware this past week, as Richmond (Edson Elcock and Yomby William) won the USL2 title and Seattle (Tyson Wahl and Taylor Graham) lifted the US Open Cup tonight.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started and played 90 minutes in Toronto's 0-0 draw with Seattle.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Did not dress in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Toronto on Saturday. Did not dress for Seattle in their 2-1 win over DC in the US Open Cup final.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Dressed but did not play in Columbus' 1-0 loss to New York on Sunday.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - Came off the bench and played 22 minutes in LA's 1-0 win over Chivas.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - Did not dress in RSL's 1-0 win over KC.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Started and played 66 minutes in Chicago's 1-0 loss to DC.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Started and played 81 minutes in Chivas USA's 1-0 loss to LA.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Dressed but did not play in Chivas' 1-0 loss to LA.
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Dallas did not have a game this week.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - Victorine has been put on injured reserve due to a concussion.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Dressed but did not play in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Toronto. Started and played 90 minutes in Seattle's 2-1 win over DC in the US Open Cup final.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Did not dress in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Portland.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress inn Vancouver's 1-1 draw with Rochester. Did not dress in Vancouver's 3-2 win over Austin.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Started and played 90 minutes in Austin's 1-0 win over Miami. Started and played 90 minutes in Austin's 3-2 loss to Vancouver Wednesday night.
Edson Elcock - Richmond (USL2) - Started and played 89 minutes, scoring a goal in Richmond's 3-1 win over Charlotte in the USL2 finals.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Came off the bench and played 25 minutes in Minnesota's 3-0 win over Cleveland. Came off the bench and played 24 minutes in Minnesota's 3-1 loss to Puerto Rico.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Dressed but did not play in Austin's 1-0 win over Miami. Started and played 69 minutes in Austin's 3-2 loss to Vancouver.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Started and played 73 minutes in Rochester's 1-1 draw with Vancouver.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Dressed but did not play in Carolina's 1-1 draw with Montreal. Started and played 84 minutes in Carolina's 1-0 loss to Montreal Wednesday night.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Came off the bench and played 1 minute in Austin's 1-0 win over Miami. Came off the bench and played 62 minutes in Austin's 3-2 loss to Vancouver.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Started and played 90 minutes in Miami's 1-0 loss to Austin.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 0-0 draw with Charleston.
Yomby William - Richmond (USL2) - Started and played 90 minutes in Richmond's 3-1 win over Charlotte in the USL2 finals.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Portland.
David Winner - Austin - Is back to his position as goalkeeping coach for Austin.
International
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Dressed but did not play in Fulham's 1-0 loss to FK Amkar Perm' in the Europa League. Came off the bench and played 14 minutes in Fulham's 2-1 loss to Aston Villa.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Did not play in Sporting's 0-0 draw with Waterford town.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not dress in Juniors 1-1 draw with Banfield or their 0-0 draw with Lanús. I'm wondering if the link I found previously about him signing with Juniors may not be true.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Started and played 85 minutes in Aalesunds' 1-1 draw with Bodø/Glimt.
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Started for PoPa in their 1-0 loss to FC Inter.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Came off the bench and played 2 minutes in Frankfurt's 3-0 loss to Alemania Aachen.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Started and played 65 minutes in Quindío's 3-2 win over Real Cartagena.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Started and played 43 minutes in Wellington's 2-0 loss to Sydney FC.
Four former Wizards also lifted silverware this past week, as Richmond (Edson Elcock and Yomby William) won the USL2 title and Seattle (Tyson Wahl and Taylor Graham) lifted the US Open Cup tonight.
MLS
Nick Garcia - Toronto FC - Started and played 90 minutes in Toronto's 0-0 draw with Seattle.
Taylor Graham - Seattle Sounders FC - Did not dress in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Toronto on Saturday. Did not dress for Seattle in their 2-1 win over DC in the US Open Cup final.
Will Hesmer - Columbus Crew - Dressed but did not play in Columbus' 1-0 loss to New York on Sunday.
Chris Klein - LA Galaxy - Came off the bench and played 22 minutes in LA's 1-0 win over Chivas.
Yura Movsisyan - Real Salt Lake - Did not dress in RSL's 1-0 win over KC.
Brandon Prideaux - Chicago Fire - Started and played 66 minutes in Chicago's 1-0 loss to DC.
Carey Talley - Chivas USA - Started and played 81 minutes in Chivas USA's 1-0 loss to LA.
Shavar Thomas - Chivas USA - Dressed but did not play in Chivas' 1-0 loss to LA.
Dave van den Bergh - FC Dallas - Dallas did not have a game this week.
Sasha Victorine - Chivas USA - Victorine has been put on injured reserve due to a concussion.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle Sounders FC - Dressed but did not play in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Toronto. Started and played 90 minutes in Seattle's 2-1 win over DC in the US Open Cup final.
USL
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Did not dress in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Portland.
Vicente Arze - Vancouver - Did not dress inn Vancouver's 1-1 draw with Rochester. Did not dress in Vancouver's 3-2 win over Austin.
Ryan Caugherty - Austin - Started and played 90 minutes in Austin's 1-0 win over Miami. Started and played 90 minutes in Austin's 3-2 loss to Vancouver Wednesday night.
Edson Elcock - Richmond (USL2) - Started and played 89 minutes, scoring a goal in Richmond's 3-1 win over Charlotte in the USL2 finals.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Came off the bench and played 25 minutes in Minnesota's 3-0 win over Cleveland. Came off the bench and played 24 minutes in Minnesota's 3-1 loss to Puerto Rico.
AJ Godbolt - Austin - Dressed but did not play in Austin's 1-0 win over Miami. Started and played 69 minutes in Austin's 3-2 loss to Vancouver.
Andrew Gregor - Rochester - Started and played 73 minutes in Rochester's 1-1 draw with Vancouver.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Dressed but did not play in Carolina's 1-1 draw with Montreal. Started and played 84 minutes in Carolina's 1-0 loss to Montreal Wednesday night.
Ryan McMahen - Austin - Came off the bench and played 1 minute in Austin's 1-0 win over Miami. Came off the bench and played 62 minutes in Austin's 3-2 loss to Vancouver.
Nelson Pizarro - Miami - Started and played 90 minutes in Miami's 1-0 loss to Austin.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 0-0 draw with Charleston.
Yomby William - Richmond (USL2) - Started and played 90 minutes in Richmond's 3-1 win over Charlotte in the USL2 finals.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 0-0 draw with Portland.
David Winner - Austin - Is back to his position as goalkeeping coach for Austin.
International
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Dressed but did not play in Fulham's 1-0 loss to FK Amkar Perm' in the Europa League. Came off the bench and played 14 minutes in Fulham's 2-1 loss to Aston Villa.
Chris Konopka - Sporting Fingal FC - Ireland - Did not play in Sporting's 0-0 draw with Waterford town.
Carlos Marinelli - Argentinos Juniors - Argentina - Did not dress in Juniors 1-1 draw with Banfield or their 0-0 draw with Lanús. I'm wondering if the link I found previously about him signing with Juniors may not be true.
Khari Stephenson - Aalesunds FK - Norway - Started and played 85 minutes in Aalesunds' 1-1 draw with Bodø/Glimt.
Antti Sumiala - FC Porin Palloilijat - Started for PoPa in their 1-0 loss to FC Inter.
Matt Taylor - FSV Frankfurt - Germany - Came off the bench and played 2 minutes in Frankfurt's 3-0 loss to Alemania Aachen.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Columbia - Started and played 65 minutes in Quindío's 3-2 win over Real Cartagena.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Started and played 43 minutes in Wellington's 2-0 loss to Sydney FC.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
August Player of the Month
The month of August was not a fun one for the Wizards, KC went 0-4 in the month of August, allowing 10 goals, while scoring 0. Those facts make it hard to even begin thinking about who should be the Wizards Player of the Month for the month of August. Even with the poor results, though, I was set on giving the award to someone. This meant looking outside of the regular stats as a whole and looking entirely at how certain players had played this month.
When thinking about which players played well over the course of the month, my choices came down to two, Lance Watson and Herculez Gomez. For Scrappy, he proved his nickname this month putting in a gritty performance in every game, being one of the Wizards best players in each of the games. As for Gomez, while the Wizards offense didn't score any goals, Gomez did his best to create chances for his teammates in the games over the course of August. Unfortunately most people will remember Gomez's one big miss in the game against Salt Lake last Saturday night.
In the end, this month's player of the month award is going to Scrappy, Lance Watson. Watson's heart and determination on the field this month is what gives him the award.
When thinking about which players played well over the course of the month, my choices came down to two, Lance Watson and Herculez Gomez. For Scrappy, he proved his nickname this month putting in a gritty performance in every game, being one of the Wizards best players in each of the games. As for Gomez, while the Wizards offense didn't score any goals, Gomez did his best to create chances for his teammates in the games over the course of August. Unfortunately most people will remember Gomez's one big miss in the game against Salt Lake last Saturday night.
In the end, this month's player of the month award is going to Scrappy, Lance Watson. Watson's heart and determination on the field this month is what gives him the award.