August Player of the Month

The month of August is nearly over and that means it's time for another player of the month award to be handed out. The Wizards went 2-1-1 in the month of August, continuing their good run of form that they started in July. Wins over New England and LA also helped the Wizards start to pull themselves out of the goalscoring slump they've been in basically all season. KC scored 7 goals in the month of August, while allowing only 3, a .75 GAA for Jimmy Nielsen and his 8th shutout of the season. On the goal scoring front, Kei Kamara led the way with 2 goals and 3 assists in the month. Birahim Diop finished with 2 goals and an assist. Davy Arnaud had a goal and an assist. Jimmy Conrad and Jack Jewsbury also added goals while Ryan Smith had an assist this month.
Overall this month comes down to two players in my opinion, Kamara and Michael Harrington. Kamara continues to have a career year adding 2 more goals and 3 assists bringing his total to 8 goals on the season. Factor in his 3 assists and he's been a part of over half the Wizards goals this season. Harrington is having a coming of age season that SHOULD see him get a call up to the national team hopefully this January if not sooner. August was another good month for him as he's basically shut down the right hand side for KC.

This month the winner is...

photo courtesy of Thad Bell

Kei Kamara

Can't argue with the month that Kamara's had, he was involved in 5 of the Wizards 7 goals and has had himself some very good games.

Wizards Sign Kempin

Today the Wizards announced their first homegrown player signing, goalkeeper, Jon Kempin. Kempin today signed a Generation Adidas contract with the Wizards and will now join the Wizards roster. He won't take up one of the team's 24 roster spots, instead he'll occupy one of two "homegrown" slots on the roster, giving the Wizards the ability to have 25 players on the team currently. In the end Kempin was likely the favorite to be signed due to his experience with the US U-18 national team. He's been called into the U-17 residency program in Florida and is still a member of the U18 player pool for the United States. Barring major injury issues to both Jimmy Nielsen and Eric Kronberg, I do not expect to see Kempin in net and probably not even on the bench this year for the Wizards. I don't see this becoming a like the Bill Hamid situation in DC. But in the end you never know. Congrats to Jon on this big even in his life and to the Wizards on keeping a local kid in town to play with his home team.

Vermes Arrested for DUI Last Week

The Wizards have had a lot of good news both on and off the field in the past couple weeks. The team is on a fantastic run of form with only 1 loss in their last 7 league games. They're getting ready to announce their first homegrown player from the Wizards Juniors program. The stadium is growing like a weed with more and more going everyday.

Unfortunately all that will now pale in comparison to what was reported tonight by the KC Star. Wizards head coach and technical director, Peter Vermes was arrested last week for DUI. Vermes was arrested in Gardner on the 24th for driving under the influence. This news makes all the positives above worthless, it's a poor representation of the team and will likely hang over any good news that comes out for the rest of the season.

There's really no excuse for this for Vermes. This isn't the type of publicity that the Wizards wanted or needed. The question now is what, if anything, does the team do about this? Certainly there will be some behind doors repercussions from this for Vermes. Will anything publicly be done? Certainly a few fans are already calling for Vermes job because of this. It certainly gives the Wizards a black eye and is certainly something that Robb Heineman and the rest of the ownership have to look into deeply.

Wizards to Announce First Homegrown Player Tomorrow

Tomorrow the Wizards will announce their very first homegrown player from the Wizards Juniors team. Robb Heineman mentioned over the weekend that they hoped to announce their first homegrown player this week and tomorrow it's going to happen. The Wizards join a growing list of MLS teams that have promoted homegrown players to the senior team.

The question still remains on who is the signing going to be. One would assume it's one of Jon Kempin, Konner Knoll, or Jordan Rideout, the three players that trained with the first team earlier this season. Kempin is a goalkeeper that has been in camp with US youth teams. Rideout is the son of former Wizards forward Paul Rideout. Knoll is the one I know the least about, he's a defender from the Wichita area. It's hard to know exactly who it will be. Part of me leans towards Kempin or Rideout, but another part of me thinks it'll be Knoll in a surprise. We'll see what happens tomorrow.

September 11th Game Moved

The Kansas City T-Bones are in the playoffs again this year, and due to the scheduling it has forced the Wizards to have to adjust their schedule. Community America Ballpark will now host the first round of the Northern League playoffs in a Best of 5 series. The series starts September 8th or 9th so there'd likely be another game on the 11th as well. The 11th is when the Wizards were scheduled to take on the Houston Dynamo at CAB. That game has now been pushed back 11 days to Wednesday September 22nd at 7:30.

I dislike midweek games, they suck. Hopefully next year with our own stadium there will be few to none. But with the parking restrictions around the Wizards stadium it's certainly possible that something like this could change the schedule again in the future.

Reserve League on the Way Back

Word is that the MLS reserve division will be coming back next season as MLS continues to work on player development along with building the current level of play with the first team. While the specifics are still being worked out, it is an incredibly smart move bringing it back and it corrects the poor move of getting rid of it in the first place years ago. One of the ideas apparently being thrown around is a 10 game season with teams being divided into 3 6 team divisions and playing each team in their division twice. This is probably the best move with travel in mind as it helps to regionalize the reserve league. While a lot of people would want more than 10, that certainly adds to the travel costs to take a lot more players to away games.

Personally I like the idea of the 10 game reserve division as it's always possible to supplement those games with games against college, PDL, and other lower division teams. Along with games in the Open Cup where teams tend to play more reserve teams. As I mentioned earlier this will correct one of the biggest mistakes MLS has made with doing away with the reserve league. It was a short term gain, long term loss for the league in my opinion. The loss of the reserve league and the loss of roster spots meant that a couple younger players that could have turned into eventual first team contributors ended up not even making the roster at all. I think a player like Igor Kostrov or Mauro Fuzetti could have developed into solid contributors for the Wizards if they were given the opportunity to get more games with the Swope Park Rangers with a bigger roster and real games.

We'll see what this brings, but I for one am excited about the return. And with the NCAA's ruling making it so that a player don't lose their amateur status by playing with pros means that Wizards Juniors players can be called up to compete in reserve games without fear of losing their college eligibility.

MLS-ADIDAS Deal Extended

Adidas has renewed their sponsorship deal with MLS 4 years before the current deal actually expired. Back in 2005 when the league as a whole was struggling, MLS stepped up with a 10 year, $150 million contract. Six years into that deal, MLS has a new 8 year deal with the sports apparel manufacturer that is said to be worth upwards of $200 million. The extension of the current deal is fantastic news for the league as it's apparent at least to Adidas that the league is viable enough to them for them to step up and extend their current partnership 4 years before the current deal expired. Adidas obviously sees enough interest and growth in the league that they wanted to tie up the deal before it got close to expiring.

I know there are a lot of people that are a bit disappointed in this because they wanted the deal to expire and let individual teams get their own jersey contracts the way it was done before the original Adidas deal. But in the end this is the best for not just a smaller team like KC that would struggle to get a good jersey deal on it's own. It also is a good deal for teams like Seattle and LA as well because they get probably what they would make on their own. And with the entire league doing it, it helps the viability of the entire league. I think this is a great deal all around for MLS.

Sunday After Stats

Here's this week's Sunday after stats. Over the next few weeks some big milestones will be coming as well.

Davy Arnaud's goal was his 40th goal in MLS play, he's the 43rd player in MLS history to hit that mark.

Arnaud's 40th MLS goal also breaks his tie with Chris Klein for sole possession of 3rd place on the list for most goals scored in league play.

Arnaud's game winning goal was his 9th as a Wizards player. He has the 4th most game winning goals in team history behind Preki, Klein, and Josh Wolff.

It was Arnaud's 12th game winner in all competitions for the Wizards. He broke his tie with Josh Wolff for 3rd place on that list.

Jimmy Conrad's goal was his 17th in a Wizards uniform tying him with Eddie Johnson for 9th place on that list.

It was also Conrad's 17th in all competitions for KC tying him with Johnson and Miklos Molnar for 12th place on that list.

In the 42nd minute, Michael Harrington moved past Bo Oshoniyi and into 16th place for the most minutes played in all competitions for KC, Harrington finished the game with 9730 minutes played.

Harrington also made his 107th league appearance for KC, breaking his tie with Sasha Victorine for 18th place on that list.

Harrington made his 105th start in all competitions, tying him with Oshoniyi for 16th place on that list.

Jimmy Nielsen recorded his 8th league shutout of the season, that's good for the 3rd best in team history at this point behind Tony Meola's 2000 season (16 shutouts) and Kevin Hartman's 2008 season (10).

Creeping Up the Table

The Wizards are slowly working their way up the table and back into really being considered for playoff contention. KC only has 1 loss in since the middle of July in league play, going 4-1-2 in that stretch. The latest win in that run came last night as the Wizards took down the league leading, but slumping, LA Galaxy at the Home Depot Center. KC came out and was the more threatening team early on. Kei Kamara had a half chance off of a cross and set up another good opportunity off of a free kick that he nodded in front of goal but no one on KC could get to it. Kamara was a big threat early on for KC, especially down the right wing, where he was able to get a few crosses off. One of those in the 12th minute gave KC the lead. There were hints of a foul by Kamara on Todd Dunivant, but it wasn't called. Kamara went down the right and crossed on the ground into the path of Davy Arnaud who took a touch and then slide the ball past Donovan Ricketts and into the net to give KC the early lead. A nice run by Arnaud and a very nice cross on the ground by Kamara.

At the other end of the field, KC was doing a good job of containing Edson Buddle and Landon Donovan. Jimmy Conrad and Shavar Thomas both had situations where they kept Buddle under wraps. And Stephane Auvray did well to help contain Donovan's runs out of the midfield in the first half. KC continued to try to catch LA on the counter in the first half, especially after going up a goal. KC should have made it 2 in the 36th minute. Arnaud stole the ball off of Leonardo on the LA back line and sprinted towards goal. Arnaud drew both defenders and then laid the ball off to Birahim Diop on the other side of the defenders. Diop's first touch was too heavy though and it raced far enough ahead of him that Ricketts had time to get off his line and block the ball as Diop tried to round the keeper.

LA made some changes at half time, most notably putting Donovan up top with Buddle. This caused the Wizards a few problems as Auvray dropped a little deeper to help with Donovan's speed. This left more space for the Galaxy midfield and Chris Birchall almost took advantage of it twice. The Wizards midfield lost the Trinidad international and Birchall was able to race into the box, but Jimmy Nielsen came up with a big toe save to knock the ball wide. Shortly after that first chance, Birchall had another good chance coming in from a deep run as he again got into the box, but his shot was once again well saved by Nielsen. Shortly after Birchall's second chance Diop once again should have made it two as he collected a loose ball, dribbled in on goal, but his shot was saved by Ricketts as he tried to pick out the near post. Diop and Ryan Smith both had other chances, but their chances came at the expense of a better chance for the other player on each play.

KC doubled the lead in the 70th minute after Smith was fouled by Birchall. Arnaud played in a nice service into the box that Conrad was able to get a foot on and knock into the net off the post. Conrad beat Buddle on the play, but the replays weren't entirely conclusive on whether it was Conrad's or an own goal on Buddle. Either way the Wizards had their second goal of the game, the first time this season they've done that. LA made some more adjustments and tried to get back into the game but never really created any more dangerous chances that challenged Nielsen in the Wizards net. KC held on for the 2-0 win, their second road win of the season, both against teams at the top of the table in their respective conferences.

Wizards Man of the Match - Davy Arnaud - A goal and an assist for Arnaud last night. A solid performance as he should have had at least one more assist if not for some poor finishing by Diop in the box. Hopefully he's hitting a good run of form as the Wizards could use another goalscorer to get hot.

Honorable Mention - Kei Kamara, Michael Harrington

Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Harrington 7, Conrad 7, Thomas 7, Espinoza 6, Arnaud 8, Auvray 6, Rocastle 6, Smith 6, Diop 6, Kamara 7. Subs Jewsbury 6, Bunbury 5, Zusi NR.

Wizards set to Sign First Homegrown Player

According to Robb Heineman a few minutes ago on Twitter, the Wizards are hoping to sign their first homegrown player to a contract this coming week. The Wizards would join a growing list of MLS teams that are starting to use the extra roster spots provided for those homegrown players. Just this week, Chivas USA and Toronto FC have signed homegrown players joining LA, DC, Dallas, Houston, and New York as teams that have signed homegrown players (although Chivas was already on that list before their latest signing).

Presumably the signing would be one of the three Wizards Juniors players that trained with the first team a few weeks ago. Either goalkeeper Jon Kempin, defender Konner Knoll, or forward Jordan Rideout appear set to become the Wizards first homegrown signing. I haven't seen any of the players play so I don't know who it really will be.

Heineman also said in the Tweet that their goal is to have 6 homegrown players on the team by 2013. An ambitious goal, but one the Wizards could certainly reach if the development at the Juniors level continues.

Vs the Top of the Table

The Wizards continue their fight to get into the playoffs this year tomorrow night when they'll take on the top of the table LA Galaxy out at the Home Depot Center. The Galaxy while still on top of the table have hit a bit of a skid, at least in terms of how the rest of their season has gone. The Galaxy have won only one of their last 4 league games. Even with that they still sit 4 points ahead of Salt Lake in the West and 3 points ahead of Columbus in the race for the Supporters' Shield.

Kansas City continues to work it's way back into the playoff race. The win over New England certainly raised spirits around KC, but as with the game against DC to start this season, KC capitalized on some poor coaching decisions by the opposing team. And while I have a lot of respect for Steve Nicol, I seriously doubt that Bruce Arena is going to make a similar mistake. KC will have to work to get points from this game. KC will have Teal Bunbury back with the team after serving his suspension, but does Peter Vermes go back to the rookie putting two goal hero Birahim Diop on the bench? I'm not so sure. I think we'll be seeing Diop starting this game and Bunbury coming in off the bench. Even if Diop only has 2 career shots on goal, and he scored on both, you go with the hot "foot".

Nielsen
Harrington - Conrad - Thomas - Espinoza
Arnaud - Auvray - Rocastle
Kamara - Diop - Smith

Key Match Up - Stephane Auvray vs Landon Donovan - It's likely going to become the main responsibility of Auvray to shut down the best player in the league. Not an easy task, but Auvray has done well this season at shutting down the play makers for opposing teams hopefully he can do it tomorrow.

PREDICTION - This game isn't a must win for KC, there are other ways that they can get points and it just doesn't feel like this is a game that the Wizards are going to get 3 points from. LA is still a very good side and at home are going to be very hard to beat. The Wizards are in form and at least have one player looking to redeem themselves after the first game these two teams played. It's just hard to see the Wizards pulling the 3 points tomorrow. Hopefully it doesn't derail the decent run they are on.

KC - 1 (Kamara)
LA - 2 (Buddle, Donovan)

New Byline to Back Post

This week's From the Byline to the Back Post is up for all of you out there on iTunes and Posterous. This week Thad and I discuss the CONCACAF Champion's League, international call ups, Wizards player news, the "Diop Game", and the game this weekend against LA. Enjoy.

Thursday News

No really big news today with regards to the Wizards, but two minor bits of news that I wanted to touch on today. First has to do with the international games coming up soon. Along with the Wizards having three players called up for their respective national teams, they almost had a fourth. Word out of Canada is that national team coach Stephen Hart had discussions with Wizards forward Teal Bunbury about playing for Canada in their upcoming games. Bunbury turned down the potential call up because he'd "just broken into the first team" and he wanted to "play more consistently and get more experience". Along with being happy about him deciding to stay with the Wizards (and potentially eventually playing for the US) I think this is a smart more on Bunbury's part. He has only recently really come around as a starter so staying with KC and working to hold onto his starting spot is important. Especially after Birahim Diop's performance last game playing in Bunbury's position.

The other news is on a Wizards trialist, Jemal Johnson. Word out of the UK today is that he is back with MK Dons and failed to earn a contract with the Wizards or with DC. Johnson may well still be looking for a new club due to the Dons financial situation. So it looks like Johnson will not be showing up in a Wizards uniform soon.

Former Wizards Update

Here is your look at this week's former Wizards update. Former Wizard, Matt Taylor is still going around Germany looking to catch on with a new team after playing very little for FSV Frankfurt this past season. Also below you'll find a list of former Wizards that I'm looking to get updated information on. So if you have information on where any of these players are please let me know.

Looking for:
Jose Burciaga
Nick Cardenas
Ryan Caugherty
Eloy Colombano
Pablo Escobar
AJ Godbolt
Willy Guadarrama
Will John
Michael Kraus
Carlos Marinelli
Pete Marino
Ryan McMahen
Nelson Pizarro
Akeem Priestley
Ofori Sarkodie
Kevin Souter

Here's the rest of your former Wizards update.

MLS
Preston Burpo - New England - Out with injury
Adam Cristman - DC United - Dressed but did not play in DC's 2-0 win over Philadelphia.
Nick Garcia - Toronto - Started and played 90 minutes in Toronto's 4-1 loss to New York. Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Arabe Unido.
Luis Gil - Real Salt Lake - Loaned to AC St. Louis (see below)
Taylor Graham - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-1 loss to Marathon. Dressed but did not play in Seattle's game against Monterrey.
Kevin Hartman - Dallas - Started and played 90 minutes, recording the shut out in Dallas' 1-0 win over Chivas.
Will Hesmer - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 3-1 win over Colorado. Dressed but did not play in Columbus' 1-0 loss to Santos.
Chris Klein - LA - Dressed but did not play in LA's 1-0 loss to San Jose.
Claudio Lopez - Colorado - Came off the bench and played 14 minutes in Colorado's 3-1 loss to Columbus.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Real Salt Lake - Started and played 90 minutes in RSL's 5-4 loss to Cruz Azul.
Kurt Morsink - DC United - Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in DC's 2-0 win over Philadelphia.
Scott Sealy - San Jose - Dressed but did not play in San Jose's 1-0 win over LA.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Started and played 90 minutes in San Jose's 1-0 win over LA.
Carey Talley - DC United - Did not dress in DC's 2-0 win over Philadelphia.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-1 loss to Marathon. Dressed but did not play in Seattle's game against Monterrey.
Alex Zotinca - Chivas USA - Did not dress in Chivas' 1-0 loss to Dallas.

USSF Division 2
Doug DeMartin - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 1-0 win over Minnesota.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Started and played 45 minutes in Minnesota's 1-0 loss to Portland.
Luis Gil - St. Louis - Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in St. Louis' 1-1 draw with Puerto Rico.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Started and played 45 minutes in Baltimore's 5-0 loss to Montreal.
Aaron Hohlbein - Miami - Started and played 90 minutes in Miami's 3-1 loss to Rochester.
Neal Kitson - Rochester - Started and played 90 minutes in Rochester's 3-1 win over Miami.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Started and played 90 minutes in Carolina's 3-2 loss to Austin. Came off the bench and played 13 minutes in Carolina's 2-1 win over Tampa.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Portland's 1-0 win over Minnesota.
Abe Thompson - Miami - Did not dress in Miami's 3-1 loss to Rochester.
Lance Watson - Austin - Started and played 84 minutes, recording an assist in Austin's 3-2 win over Carolina.

USL-2
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Already in the USL 2 final.
Edson Elcock - Richmond - Started and played 82 minutes in Richmond's 2-0 playoff win over Pittsburgh.
Tom Gray - Pittsburgh - Started and played 90 minutes in Pittsburgh's 2-0 loss to Richmond in the USL playoffs.
Yomby William - Richmond - Started and played 90 minutes in Richmond's 2-0 playoff win over Pittsburgh.
John Wilson - Charleston - Already in the USL 2 final.

International
Vicente Arze - Aurora - Bolivia - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in Aurora's 1-1 draw with La Paz. Lost 2-1 to Real Potosi today.
Herculez Gomez - Pachuca - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 24 minutes in Pachuca's 2-2 draw with Monterrey.
Santiago Hirsig - Quilmes - Argentina - Started and played 90 minutes in Quilmes 1-1 draw with Lanús.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - League starts next week.
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Did not dress in Fulham's 2-2 draw with Manchester United. Dressed but did not play in Fulham's 6-0 win over Port Vale.
Chris Konopka - Waterford United - Ireland - Dressed but did not play in Waterford's 1-0 win over Cork City.
Yura Movsisyan - Randers FC - Denmark - Started and played 84 minutes in Randers 1-1 draw with Silkeborg. Came off the bench and played 22 minutes, scoring two goals in Randers 4-1 Cup win over Skovbakken.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Colombia - Did not dress in Quindio's 1-1 draw with Independiente Medellin.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Did not dress in Wellington's 2-0 win over Central Coast.

More Call Ups for KC

Today we've learned that Kei Kamara was not the only player called up to represent his national team in the upcoming international break next weekend. Shavar Thomas has been called up by the Jamaican national team for their games on September 5th against Costa Rica and September 7th against Peru. The good news for the Wizards is that Thomas will not miss the Wizards game on September 4th against Philadelphia. Instead he will go straight from Philadelphia to Kingston where Jamaica will take on Costa Rica. The team then travels to Fort Lauderdale for their game against the South Americans.

Also announced today via Tweet, was that Roger Espinoza has apparently been called up by the Honduran national team for their upcoming games in LA against El Salvador on September 5th, and verse Canada in Montreal on the 7th. No word on whether Espinoza will pull a Thomas and play Saturday before jetting to LA to join the Honduran team. UPDATE: According to the Wizards press release today, Espinoza has only been called up for the game against Montreal on Tuesday the 7th. And he will play for KC against Philadelphia.

KC isn't quite on the level of TFC a few years ago (where they were allowed to make emergency signings for a game because of international call ups), but it's frustrating that MLS' playing on international dates almost really came to biting KC in the butt. It could potentially even get worse for KC if the Canadian national team were to happen to call up Teal Bunbury like some of the press have been wanting.

Chhetri Scores Again for India

Sunil Chhetri continues to score goals for the Indian national team as they continue to prepare for January's Asian Cup. Today India recorded another win in Portugal as they defeated Portuguese third division side Sertanense FC 3-2 with Chhetri getting a brace. Chhetri put India in from in the 14th slotting home a pass from Mohammed Rafi. In the 22nd minute, Chhetri made it 2-0 with a header off an indirect free kick (his third header out of his four goals). Sertanense pulled one goal back before the half, and then leveled just before the hour mark. India found the winner in the 78th minute through NP Pradeep. Chhetri went the full 90 for India.

Kamara Gets Call Up

Kei Kamara posted today on his Twitter account today that he'd been called up by the national team for Sierra Leone for their upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifier verse Egypt in Cairo on September 3rd. This is their first game in the qualification process. The Leone Stars are in Group G along with World Cup hosts South Africa and Niger in their 4 team group. The top team in each group, the two best runner ups, and the second place finisher in Group K will all join hosts Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in the 2012 African Cup of Nations. The Wizards have a game on September 4th in Philadelphia, so Kamara will miss what could be a crucial game for the Wizards. But with it being on a FIFA international break, there's no one to really complain to other than MLS for playing on FIFA international dates.

Sunday After Stats

Here's your stats from last night's game.

Shavar Thomas made his 150th start of his MLS career.

Jack Jewsbury's goal was his 14th league goal, giving him sole possession of 12th place on that list, breaking his tie with Matt McKeon, Jose Burciaga Jr, Sasha Victorine, and Claudio Lopez.

Jewsbury's goal was also his 15th in all competitions, tying him with Burciaga, Victorine, and Lopez for 16th place on that list.

In the 25th minute, Michael Harrington moved past Bo Oshoniyi and into 17th place for the most minutes played in league play. Harrington finished the game with 8,498 minutes played.

Harrington made his 121st appearance in all competitions, moving him past Sean Bowers and into sole possesssion of 17th place on that list.

Harrington also made his 106th appearance in league play, tying him wtih Sasha Victorine for 18th place on that list.

Harrington also made his 94th league start breaking his tie with Mark Chung for 17th place on that list.

Harrington also made his 104th start in all competitions, breaking his tie with Chung again for 17th place on that list.

Birahim Diop scored the first two goals of his MLS career.

Kei Kamara's goal was his 8th in all competitions this year, which ties a career high for him.

The Wizards win over the Revolution was the team's 20th in league play, which is the most wins the Wizards have against a single club, tied with Colorado.

Great Win

For those that missed my Tweets pregame last night, I was incredibly unhappy with the decision to Birahim Diop up top in the center striker position. Diop has been very unsuccessful when he's come on as a substitute this season as a striker. The biggest was his poor finishing against Toronto FC when he had the full goal to shoot for. Last night he made me eat my words as he turned in a great performance, getting 2 goals an an assist as KC took it to the New England Revolution 4-1 at Community America Ballpark.

The first big note about the game was before it even got started. Revolution coach Steve Nicol decided to put out a 3-5-2 because of the smaller field mainly. Unfortunately for Nicol and the Revs, that played right into KC's playing style down the wings. KC worked early to try and exploit the space down the wings. Ryan Smith had a chance well saved by Matt Reis, and Diop had a chance that he blasted over the bar that prompted sighs of frustration from myself and others around me as it seemed to be a sign of what to expect over the course of the game. All that within the first 10 minutes of the game.

In the 16th minute Diop made myself and everyone else that made pregame comments regret them. Kei Kamara received the ball on the wing in the Wizards defensive half. He played a through ball to Diop who was held on by Darrius Barnes, despite what the New England commentating crew said during the broadcast. On the break Diop calmly dribbled in on Reis and slide the ball past him inside Reis' near post for his first career goal in his first start in MLS in 8 years and 88 days. KC continued to control the game after the first goal, and in the 27th minute, KC doubled their lead again through Diop. Kamara received a thrown in from Michael Harrington controlled the ball, cut, turned, and lofted a cross to the 6 yard box where Diop out jumped Kevin Alston and headed past Reis to double the Wizards lead, only the 4th time KC has scored more than a goal in a game. New England battled back after the second goal, getting more control of the ball and in the 37th minute pulled a goal back. Khano Smith came down the Wizards right, beating Craig Rocastle. Smith fed the ball to Kenny Mansally at the top of the box. He turned and fired as Jimmy Conrad stuck a leg out to try and block the shot. Unfortunately Conrad didn't block the shot, the shot deflected off him and left Jimmy Nielsen stranded as it bounced past him and into the net.

In the second half, the Revolution continued to push forward to try to find the equalizer. Unfortunately for the Revs, it was the Wizards that found the next goal in the 65th. Smith found Diop down the right wing. Diop did well to control the ball and keep it in play before sending a low cross into the box. Kamara held off his defender, let the ball run across his body and slotted the ball inside Reis' near post to make it 3-1 KC. New England almost responded immediately as Corey Gibbs was found alone in the box, but his attempt to curl the ball into the top corner put the ball out for a goal kick. Shortly after the Revs chance, KC put the game to bed. Emmanuel Osei played a slow, sloppy back pass to Reis. Smith raced in trying to challenge Reis for the ball. Reis slide out to knock the ball away, beating Smith to the ball. The ball fell to Jack Jewsbury who was following the play. And as Reis came out to make another sliding challenge to knock the ball away again, Jewsbury slotted the ball under Reis and into the empty net. The Revolution continued to push forward after that, trying to get back into the game, but also seeming to realize that the game was beyond them. KC held on for their 6th win of the season, their first when they actually allowed a goal.

Wizards Man of the Match- Birahim Diop - Two goals and an assist for the Senegalese d-mid/forward. A good performance for Diop in his first MLS start in 8 years. Diop showed control and composure on the ball unlike what we'd really ever seen from Diop in his previous appearances in a Wizards uniform.

Honorable Mention - Kei Kamara

Player Ratings - Nielsen 5, Harrington 5, Conrad 5, Thomas 5, Espinoza 6, Arnaud 6, Auvray 7, Rocastle 6, Kamara 7, Diop 8, Smith 7. Subs Jewsbury 6, Zusi 5, Myers NR.

Must Win

If the Wizards want to make the playoffs this year, they need to get somewhere in the range of 20-24 points of the remaining 33 most likely. That means winning the remaining 5 home games as well as getting a few wins on the road. The first thing to do is obviously win at home. With the New England Revolution in town for the game tomorrow, it has to start then. A loss and the Wizards can start preparing for next season even if they aren't totally eliminated.

New England come into town finishing up a 3 game in 8 day swing in 3 different cities. They played Houston last Saturday and in Chicago on Wednesday night. New England has struggled just like the Wizards have, only scoring 4 more goals than KC. But up until the team's 2-1 loss to Chicago on Wednesday, the Revolution were on an 8 game unbeaten run. They still have Sharlie Joseph running the team from the midfield which will be a handful for KC.

The first thing for KC to do is to actually score more than 1 goal. If not for DC, KC would be well on their way to setting a league record for fewest goals in a season. So scoring and probably scoring more is going to be needed for KC to make the playoffs. Ryan Smith is now probable for the game that's certainly a good sign for KC. But the Wizards will be without Teal Bunbury who is suspended. Which likely means the return to the starting lineup for Josh Wolff. Other than that I don't know if we'll see much change to the lineup from last week's game against San Jose.

Nielsen
Harrington - Conrad - Thomas - Espinoza
Arnaud - Auvray - Rocastle
Kamara - Wolff - Smith

Key Match Up - Davy Arnaud vs Ricardo Salazar - First time I've ever had a player vs the referee, but considering Salazar has given Arnaud 2 or his 3 red cards this season. For the Wizards to even have a chance at the playoffs they have to keep the full 11 players on the field. And that means Arnaud has to keep his ego in check, especially with a referee who has red carded the Wizards captain twice.

PREDICTION - With the way that the two teams have played much of this season, one would think that a safe result would probably be a 0-0 draw as combined the two teams have scored 34 goals. The Wizards themselves have scored only 2 more goals than Edson Buddle has. With this being virtually a must win, one would hope that Peter Vermes has the team ready to play and they come out and get the win.

KC - 1 (Kamara)
NE - 0

Chhetri and India Lose in Portugal

India lost the second game of their camp in Portugal, 1-0 to CD Mafra, a second division side. Wizards forward, Sunil Chhetri did not start for India as the Indian coach, Bob Houghton made numerous changes to the team that played on Wednesday. Chhetri did come on as a second half sub, coming on in the 77th minute.

New Salaries Out

The MLS Players Union has updated their list of salaries for the 2010 season for the players in the league. The Wizards added two players since the salaries came out, as the Wizards added Nikos Kounenakis and Shavar Thomas. Kounenakis is making a $60,000 base and $70,000 guaranteed. Not a horrible salary for a guy that has yet to make an appearance for KC. Thomas is making $145,000 base and $159,375 guaranteed. That certainly sounds like it's a bit high for the Jamaican defender, but the good news from what I've heard is that the Wizards aren't paying all of Thomas' salary. Word is that Philadelphia is paying a portion, if not a large portion of Thomas' salary this season which makes the move appear better.

Byline to Back Post

This week's edition of From the Byline to the Back Post is up for your downloading and listening pleasure. You can download it on iTunes and Posterous. We discuss the Wizards previous few games, player news and rumors, stadium information, Comets and WPS news. Enjoy.

Bunbury Suspended for Saturday

While Jason Hernandez will be sitting out two games for his elbow on Teal Bunbury, Bunbury didn't escape with nothing for his elbow on Tim Ward. Bunbury has been suspended for 1 game and fined $250 for his elbow on Ward that led to Hernandez's retaliatory elbow. Bunbury's elbow came on one of KC's free kicks that was scored on but called back. While going for the ball and trying to lose his marker, Bunbury elbowed Ward in the face. Ward stayed down for a few minutes after the elbow. Bunbury will now miss this Saturday's game against New England, a virtual must win for KC to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Overall, probably a justified suspension after seeing his elbow on Ward.

Trialists for KC

While the window of bringing in under contract players is closed, the window for unsigned players is still open. The names of 3 players are currently known for guys that are currently in camp. Rami Duani who was mentioned previously here is currently in camp. Also in camp currently is another Israeli Moshe Mishaelof, a defensive midfielder who most recently played for AEP Paphos FC in Cyprus. Mishaelof, like Duani has represented his country at the youth levels, but has not appeared for the first team. Finally, probably the biggest name, at least to those that follow Yanks Abroad, is Jemal Johnson. Johnson last played for Stockport County on loan from MK Dons. Johnson is an American that moved to England when he was 5. Johnson was in Manchester United's youth system and eventually signed to play for Blackburn Rovers. After playing little for Rovers and going on loan, Johnson has jumped around the lower divisions in England.

Overall none of the trialists are incredibly exciting. While KC could still stand to update their defense, the bigger need in my opinion right now is someone that can put the ball in the net. Johnson hasn't done that a ton, but has done well enough that he might be worth a shot. He'd likely play on the wing here on the right. Which is certainly a position KC could use. Thad has pictures of both Duani and Mishaelof on his blog.

Former Wizards Update

Back for another week of former Wizards updates. The USL division 2 playoffs start this weekend, and all 5 former Wizards playing in the league made the playoffs this year. In other former Wizards news, Carlos Marinelli is once again looking for a club after being released this offseason by Aldosivi. Elsewhere, Yura Movsisyan continues his good form, scoring another goal for Randers FC. Here's the rest of your former Wizards update.

MLS
Preston Burpo - New England - Out with injury
Adam Cristman - DC United - Came off the bench and played 23 minutes in DC's 3-1 loss to FC Dallas.
Nick Garcia - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 2-1 win over Cruz Azul in the CONCACAF Champion's League.
Luis Gil - Real Salt Lake - Loaned to AC St. Louis (see below)
Taylor Graham - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Chivas.
Kevin Hartman - Dallas - Started and played 90 minutes in Dallas' 3-1 win over DC.
Will Hesmer - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-0 loss to RSL. Dressed but did not play in Columbus' 1-0 win over CSD Municipal in the CONCACAF Champion's League.
Chris Klein - LA - Came off the bench and played 7 minutes in LA's 1-0 win over New York.
Claudio Lopez - Colorado - Dressed but did not play in Colorado's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Real Salt Lake - Did not dress in RSL's 2-0 win over Columbus. Did not dress for RSL's CONCACAF Champion's League game against Arabe Unido.
Kurt Morsink - DC United - Dressed but did not play in DC's 3-1 loss to Dallas.
Scott Sealy - San Jose - Did not dress in San Jose's 1-0 win over KC.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in San Jose's 1-0 win over KC.
Carey Talley - DC United - Started and played 53 minutes in DC's 3-1 loss to Dallas.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Chivas.
Alex Zotinca - Chivas USA - Did not dress in Seattle's 0-0 draw with Seattle.

USSF Division 2
Doug DeMartin - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 1-0 win over St. Louis.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Started and played 90 minutes in Minnesota's 1-0 loss to Vancouver.
Luis Gil - St. Louis - Came off the bench and played 14 minutes in St. Louis' 1-0 loss to Portland.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Baltimore's 2-1 win over Carolina. Started and played 85 minutes in Baltimore's 2-0 loss to Rochester.
Aaron Hohlbein - Miami - Started and played 68 minutes in Miami's 3-3 draw with Tampa Bay. Started and played 90 minutes in Miami's 2-1 loss to Carolina.
Neal Kitson - Rochester - Dressed but did not play in Rochester's 2-1 win over Montreal. Started and played 90 minutes, recording the shutout in Rochester's 2-0 winn over Baltimore.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Did not dress in Carolina's 2-1 loss to Baltimore. Started and played 90 minutes in Carolina's 2-1 win over Miami.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-0 win over St. Louis.
Abe Thompson - Miami - Did not dress in Miami's 3-3 draw with Tampa Bay. Did not play in Miami's 2-1 loss to Carolina.
Lance Watson - Austin - Started and played 90 minutes in Austin's 2-0 loss to Puerto Rico.

USL-2
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Came off the bench and played 23 minutes in Charleston's 3-0 win over Charlotte.
Edson Elcock - Richmond - Started and played 62 minutes in Richmond's 1-1 draw with Maryland.
Tom Gray - Pittsburgh - Started and played 45 minutes in Pittsburgh's 1-1 draw with Harrisburg.
Yomby William - Richmond - Started and played 90 minutes in Richmond's 1-1 draw with Maryland.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes in Charleston's 3-0 over Charlotte.

International
Vicente Arze - Aurora - Bolivia - Came off the bench and played 22 minnutes in Aurora's 2-0 win over Oriente Petrolero.
Herculez Gomez - Pachuca - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 37 minutes in Pachuca's 4-1 loss to Cruz Azul.
Santiago Hirsig - Quilmes - Argentina - Came off the bench and played 16 minutes in Quilmes 2-0 loss to Estudiantes.
Eddie Johnson - Fulham - England - Did not dress in Fulham's 0-0 draw with Bolton.
Chris Konopka - Waterford United - Ireland - Dressed but did not play in Waterford's 1-0 winn over Wexford Youths.
Yura Movsisyan - Randers FC - Denmark - Started and played 87 minutes, scoring a goal in Randers 2-1 win over Lyngby.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Colombia - Did not play in Quindio's 2-0 win over Deportivo Cali.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Did not play in Wellington's 3-3 draw with Gold Coast.

Wizards Beat Baker

In a 60 minute game, with a 30 minute Wizards intrasquad scrimmage in between, the Wizards/Swope Park Rangers defeated Baker University 4-0 today out at the Swope Park training complex. The Wizards opened the scoring through Teal Bunbury who finished from a tight angle in the early part of the game. KC doubled their lead through Matt Besler after a well worked free kick between Davy Arnaud and Chance Myers. KC took a 3-0 lead at the end of the first 30 minutes through Arnaud, who knocked home a penalty kick after Myers was brought down in the box.

In the second 30 minutes, the Wizards played an intrasquad scrimmage that ended up finishing 0-0 with a shot off the cross bar and Eric Kronberg coming up with a nice save on a Shavar Thomas header.

The final 30 minutes, it was against Baker again. Not a lot of scoring took place in the final 30 minutes. The one goal came from Jamar Beasley as he beat him man to a cross an slotted home his shot to give the Wizards a 4-0 win over Baker.

Chhetri and India Win in Portugal

Sunil Chhetri and the Indian national team continued their long term camp in Portugal with a game today against Uniao Serra of the Portuguese second division today. Chhetri played a big role, as India won the game 3-1 on a brace from the Wizards forward. Chhetri opened the scoring for India in the 35th with a header off of a cross. It was the only goal of the first half. India surrendered the lead early in the second half. Chhetri restored India's lead again with his head from another cross. India finished off the game 5 minutes later on a goal from Sushil Kumar. Chhetri played the full 90 for The Bhangra Boys who play again on Thursday against Club Deportivo Mafra.

Suspension for Hernandez

MLS' disciplinary committee has reviewed the red card that San Jose defender Jason Hernandez received against Kansas City this past weekend, for his elbow on Teal Bunbury and has doubled his suspension and fine. Hernandez will now miss two games for the Earthquakes and will be fined $500.

Hernandez was caught retaliating to an elbow that Bunbury landed on Quakes defender Tim Ward earlier in the game on one of KC's 3 offside goals. You can basically see the elbow in the video below. Hernandez doesn't have much remorse for the play, which honestly I can't completely blame him. It's the justice on the field that you see quite often in soccer. Unfortunately for Hernandez, the old adage of the person that retaliates getting caught held true here as well.

Worst Offense Ever?

Some stat stuff for you to chew on.

The Wizards are easily on pace to be the worst offensive team in Wizards history when it comes to scoring goals. Through 19 games the Wizards have only scored 15 goals. The 1999, 2001, and 2009 Wizards are tied for the least amount of goals in Wizards history with 33. Unless the Wizards score 18 goals in their final 11 games (1.64 goals per game), the team will set a new record for putting the ball in the net futility. To avoid the 1.031 goals per game by the 1999 team, the Wizards will need to score 16 goals to finish with 31 and a 1.033 goals per game average. Either way they have to score more goals in the final 11 games than they did the first 19.

Not only that, but the Wizards could be on course to be the worst offense in league history. Currently through 19 games the Wizards have scored 15 goals, an average of .79 goals per game. The record for goal scoring futility is Toronto FC's expansion year where they only scored 25 goals in the season, an average of .83 goals per game. To not finish at least tied for that record, the Wizards need to average a goal per game the rest of the season to finish with 26 goals and ahead of TFC's mark. The good news for the Wizards in this situation (if there can be good news in this) is that DC United is doing worse than KC. DC currently has 13 goals through 20 games, an average of .65 a game.

In regards to points, the Wizards are only 4 points away from passing the 1999 team for the fewest points earned in a season, so at least they don't appear set to set that record.

News and Notes

Earlier today, the Star posted a quick note from practice today that probably scared a lot of Wizards fans. Apparently at practice today, Wizards forward/midfielder, Ryan Smith, was carted off the field with an apparent knee injury. The Wizards have addressed the injury tonight on their website, and Wizards fans can step off the ledge. Smith's injury is apparently not serious. He has a knee strain, but they right now don't plan on doing an MRI. Smith will be readdressed tomorrow before training, so hopefully in the end it doesn't keep Smith from playing this weekend.

Also on the Wizards website today, head coach, Peter Vermes had a chat with fans where he answered questions. Overall no real new information came out that fans weren't really aware of. The biggest news really was the fact that the team expects Zoltan Hercegfalvi back in October from his ACL tear. Certainly good news for a team that has lacked a scoring punch for much of the season, but is likely going to be too late.

Finally, over the weekend, the MLS transfer window for players under contract in other leagues closed. It closed on the 15th of August. Team's can still sign players that aren't under contract or from within MLS until September 15th. With the Wizards having two open roster spots, one would hope that they're looking to fill at least one of those spots (with Hercegfalvi eventually taking the second). A bit more scoring punch off the bench, or starter would certainly be appreciated at this point.

Kansas City on WPS Expansion Radar

Earlier tonight the Wizards retweeted a comment from SI.com columnist Jeff Kassouf about KC being on the list for potential expansion to the WPS. Specifically once the Wizards open their soccer specific stadium. I went to Kassouf's column on SI.com and his article from August 11th mentions KC as being a candidate along side Miami, Vancouver, Denver, San Diego, and Ontario. It doesn't specifically mention OnGoal, instead it says that a group is interested in bringing a team to the new stadium. When the economic study of the Bannister Mall site came out a few years ago, it did have women's soccer mentioned as one of the things that would fill dates at the new stadium. Also back in 2007, OnGoal had shown an interest in potentially having a women's team as well.

So maybe OnGoal is still interested in bringing a women's team to KC. My stance really hasn't changed since the article I wrote in 2007, I'd likely come to a few games, but I wouldn't be a season ticket holder.

Sunday After Stats

A bunch of appearance stats from this week's game.

Davy Arnaud made his 236th appearance in all competitions, moving him past Chris Klein and into sole possession of 4th place on that list.

Josh Wolff made his 157th appearance in all competitions for KC, moving him past Tony Meola and into sole possession of 10th place.

Michael Harrington made his 120th appearance in all competitions, moving him into a tie with Sean Bowers for 17th place on that list.

Harrington also made his 103rd start in all competitions for KC, moving him past Sasha Victorine and into a tie with Mark Chung for 17th place on that list.

Harrington's start was also his 93rd in league play for KC moving him past Bo Oshoniyi and into a tie with Mark Chung for 17th place on that list as well.

No One to Blame But Ourselves

KC's 4 game unbeaten run came to a quick halt last night in San Jose as KC continued their poor run of form in the Bay area. And they have really no one but themselves to blame, as KC had 3 goals called back in the second half for being offside. They were also outdone by some good goalkeeping from San Jose goalkeeper, Joe Cannon.

The early going was back and forth, as KC pressed forward and San Jose would counter, looking to catch Jimmy Nielsen looking into the sun in the first half. Arturo Alvarez went close inside the first 5 minutes of the game after cutting inside on Roger Espinoza. Shortly after, KC should have taken the lead, Teal Bunbury got on the end of a poor back pass to Cannon, but Cannon was quick off his line and knocked the ball away, the ball fell to Davy Arnaud, who faked a shot and chipped the ball into the middle to Bunbury whose diving header went wide of the goal. Arnaud likely would have been better trying to play that ball on the deck to Bunbury for a simple tap in. KC continued to control the game at that point and created a few half chances through Arnaud and Ryan Smith, but could not find net. In the 26th minute, a Smith free kick went right into the wall and led to a counter for the Quakes. Cornell Glen dribbled the ball 2/3rds the length of the field and fired wide when he had Alvarez open for a square ball.

After that play, the Quakes began to control the game. Shortly after that play, Glen again had a golden opportunity as Khari Stephenson played him a great ball, but he headed wide. The Quakes continued to hold possession and the Wizards had trouble even getting out of their own end of the field. A goal was coming and finally came in the 35th. Once again it was Stephenson, playing a great ball over the top behind the Wizards defense to Chris Wondolowski whose one touch volley beat Nielsen and gave the Quakes the 1-0 lead. The Quakes continued to push for the rest of the half and they looked more likely to score a second than the Wizards were to look to get on the board. Stephenson hit the top of the cross bar on a free kick as well.

In the second half, the Wizards came back out an reasserted themselves into dominating the game, and thought they'd equalized in the 47th through Arnaud off of a Smith free kick, but the flag went up for Arnaud being offside. Note that, because it became a theme for the second half. Less than 10 minutes later KC had another excellent chance, as Bunbury beat the offside trap, but once again Cannon came up with the big save, getting off his line quickly to cut down the angle so Bunbury had no where to shoot it. It was then Kei Kamara's turn to join in the offside calls, as he was slow getting back onside after the ball was cleared out of San Jose's box. Kamara finished on the second attempt, but again the flag was up.

In the 70th minute, KC thought they'd equalized for the third time in the evening, as Michael Harrington played a great ball into the box after a partial clearance by San Jose. But once again Arnaud hadn't gotten himself all the way back onside and the goal was again waived off. Josh Wolff again came in off the bench and provided a nice spark for KC. He took the ball down the left wing and crossed into the box where 3 Wizards had the chance at it. The ball went by both Bunbury and Smith and came to Graham Zusi, who was able to get a touch on it, but had over ran it and couldn't get a shot off. Even an 88th minute red card to Jason Hernandez for an off the ball challenge on Bunbury didn't give the Wizards the boost they needed to get the win.

Once again KC makes an undermanned team look good. KC had plenty of opportunities to get not just one, but all 3 points, but could not get the attackers to finish their chances. The offense continues to be the team's biggest problem. The team has 11 games left in the 2010 season and have only scored 15 goals. The team record for fewest goals in a season is 33 set in 99, 01, and 09. This team is on pace to shatter that record. When the season's over, that more than any defensive problems will be what the Wizards can point to as the problem for them this season.

Wizards Man of the Match - Michael Harrington - No one had a really stand out game, but Harrington had another strong solid performance from the right back position.

Player Ratings - Nielsen 5, Espinoza 4, Conrad 5, Thomas 4, Harrington 6, Auvray 5, Rocastle 5, Aranud 5, Kamara 3, Bunbury 4, Smith 4. Subs Zusi 4, Wolff 5, Jewsbury NR.

Comets Coach Named

Today on Facebook, the Comets announced their head coach, who will be officially introduced on Wednesday. That coach is former KC Comets and KC Attack player, Kim "the Rocket" Rontved. Rontved hasn't coached professionally since he was a player coach for the Wichita Wings back in the late 90's. A good signing overall, and brings a good sense of legitimacy to the team just by this signing.

Back on the Road

After a few weeks at home for the Wizards, the team goes back on the road this weekend to take on the San Jose Earthquakes. The Wizards will look to continue their 4 game unbeaten run, going 2-0-2. In this run, the team is 1-0-1 on the road. KC will see a few familiar faces potentially on the field for San Jose. Scott Sealy came back to MLS this year, and just this week, Khari Stephenson signed on with San Jose as well and appears set to start for San Jose. San Jose is also fighting with their own injury issues, as one of their brighter spots, rookie Ike Opara, is out injured along with a few other Quakes players, which could end up leading to a bit of a makeshift lineup for San Jose.

The Wizards on the other hand are fairly healthy, as the only two players on the injured list are Zoltan Hercegfalvi and Birahim Diop. Ryan Smith is not on the injured list any more, which could be a lot of trouble for the Earthquakes, as Smith had a fantastic game last week against Real Salt Lake. Overall, this is a very important game for KC, as San Jose is currently sitting 9th in the single table, only 3 points ahead of the Wizards. The bad news is that the Wizards have not had a lot of luck in San Jose for the last decade. The Wizards are 0-7-4 in league play since 2000 in San Jose. Add that to the Wizards two playoff losses since 2000 in San Jose and the Wizards have not won in 13 games in Bay Area. And that's including the fact that San Jose was out of the league for a few years after their initial move to Houston.

Nielsen
Harrington - Conrad - Thomas - Espinoza
Arnaud - Auvray - Rocastle
Kamara - Bunbury - Smith

Key Match Up - Ryan Smith vs Tim Ward/right back - Smith had a fantastic game against the defending champs last week and if he can have a similar performance tomorrow vs San Jose, the Wizards should come away with 3 points. But after that performance, you know San Jose is going to be playing him a lot tighter this weekend.

PREDICTION - A win on the road would be huge for KC. With only 5 home games remaining, the Wizards are going to have to get points on the road in their final 12 games, including a win or two. Facing a San Jose team that is banged up defensively would seem to be the perfect opportunity for the Wizards to pick up 3 points. With KC struggling to score more than a goal a game this could be a good game for the Wizards to break out of that slump. If KC wants to make the playoffs, winning these games when they are in better form and better health has to happen, even if it is on the road, and even if KC hasn't won in San Jose in a decade.

KC - 2 (Kamara, Bunbury)
SJ - 0

Comets Set to Announce Coach

The Missouri Comets are set to announce their first head coach this coming Wednesday in a press conference out at the Independence Event Center. Speculation is ripe on who will be selected as the coach. The team has mentioned via Facebook that it is a name that would be recognizable. So are we going to see a former Comets/Attack player come back and coach the new Comets? Locally there are a few candidates. Former Attack coach, Jim Schwab is still in the area coaching at JCCC, and Nate Houser who is currently at Baker. Goran Hunjak is also in the area, operating Victory Soccer Camp. It will be interesting to see who the selection ends up being. If it does happen to be Schwab or Houser, I would imagine that they could keep their current coaching positions at the same time.

How interested are you in the new Comets? Personally I'm looking forward to it. I'm not sure if I'll be getting season tickets due to financial reasons, but I'll certainly be going to a few games. What amount of coverage would you like to see on this blog for the Comets? A lot (aka live blogging and a lot of news)? Some? None? Let me know in the poll.

Friendlies Part of Bravo Deal

Today the Wizards made the official announcement of the Omar Bravo signing that Robb Heineman announced last night. Along with the announcement of the signing the Wizards announced that part of that deal is the fact that the Wizards and Chivas Guadalajara will play a home-home friendly series. During the Wizards preseason for the 2011 season, the Wizards will play down in Guadalajara against Chivas. Then once the Wizards stadium opens in June of 2011, Chivas will pay a visit to the Wizards at their new stadium.

This should make for an incredibly game, at least atmosphere wise, as Chivas is probably the most popular Mexican team in the US. Will make for a fun day when the day does come.

Chherti and India Draw

Since leaving the Wizards to go on loan with the Indian national team, Sunil Chhetri has been training in Portugal where the team is holding a camp to prepare for this January's AFC Asian Cup that India is competing in. Yesterday, Chhetri competed in his first game with the national team over there. Unfortunately Chhetri did not find net, as India drew with newly promoted second division side, Casa Pia AC. This was the 5th match of the Portugal camp for the Indian team. They won their first 3 matches and lost their 4th, giving them a 3-1-1 record for the camp right now.

The Spin Cycle is Over, Bravo Deal Done

That's the word tonight from Wizards president, Robb Heineman according to Twitter. A couple minutes ago Heineman announced that the Omar Bravo deal is finally done. He states that Bravo will start with the Wizards in the 2011 preseason. Thus brings an end to one of the most expected moves in Wizards history.

It's been almost a month since Chivas posted the news on their website that Bravo was coming to KC. Since then, it's been a lot of one sided news from south of the border, with most of the news focusing on when Bravo would join the Wizards. Those rumors about him finishing the Apertura season with Chivas have turned out to be true. It'd have been nice if the move had happened for this season to try and solve the Wizards scoring problems, but I guess we'll have to wait until 2011 to see Bravo play. The Wizards still have 2 open roster spots to bring in players from outside MLS. We'll see if they fill those spots.

New Byline to Back Post

This week's From the Byline to the Back Post is up for your listening pleasure on iTunes and Posterous. This week Thad and I discussed plenty of player news and rumors, the Real Salt Lake game and San Jose game, along with other tangents. Enjoy.

Thomas Goes 89 minutes for Jamaica

Wizards defender Shavar Thomas was capped for the 28th time last night, the 4th time as a Wizards player as Jamaica defeated Trinidad and Tobago 3-1 last night in Trinidad. Thomas started the game in defense for the Reggae Boyz. He was subbed out in the 90th minute. New York Red Bulls winger, Dane Richards opened the scoring for Jamaica. Trinidad equalized through Devon Jorsling before Rudolph Austin restored the lead from the penalty spot. Kavin Bryan finished the scoring early in the second half. Thomas will now be on his way to San Jose to join the Wizards there for their game this weekend.

Wizards Offer Trial to Former Israeli Youth International?

Word out of Israel today is that the Wizards are offering a trial to former Israeli youth international, Rami Duani. Since turning pro in 2006, Duani has played for Hapoel Tel Aviv but has gone out on loan the past few years to Hapoel Kfar Saba and Maccabi Ahi Nazareth. Duani is a big defender, standing almost 6'3". It's a little surprising that the Wizards would be looking to bring him in, as the team is still full of central defenders, with 4 currently on the roster and another currently out on loan. Of course it could be a trial with an eye towards the 2011 season as well. During his career, Duani has represented Israel at the U17, U18, U19, and U21 levels.

Former Wizards Update

Lots of news coming out this week for former Wizards. First Herculez Gomez got another cap for the US national team in their 2-0 loss to Brazil. Speaking of national teams, Yura Movsisyan made a commitment to play for the Armenian national team and got his first cap today against Iran. Another former Wizards player that is on his way back to MLS is Khari Stephenson, who is on his way to San Jose to play for the Earthquakes. Here's the rest of your former Wizards update.

MLS
Preston Burpo - New England - Out with injury
Adam Cristman - DC United - Came off the bench and played 21 minutes in DC's 1-0 loss to New England.
Nick Garcia - Toronto - Started and played 90 minutes in Toronto's 2-1 win over Chivas. Started and played 90 minutes in Toronto's 1-0 loss to New York.
Luis Gil - Real Salt Lake - Did not dress in RSL's 1-1 draw with KC. Did not dress in RSL's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Taylor Graham - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-0 win over Houston.
Kevin Hartman - Dallas - Started and played 90 minutes in Dallas' 3-1 win over Philadelphia.
Will Hesmer - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-1 win over Philadelphia.
Chris Klein - LA - Did not have a league game this week.
Claudio Lopez - Colorado - Came off the bench and played 24 minutes in Colorado's 1-0 win over San Jose.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Real Salt Lake - Dressed but did not play in RSL's 1-1 draw with KC. Started and played 90 minutes in RSL's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Kurt Morsink - DC United - Dressed but did not play in DC's 1-0 loss to New England.
Scott Sealy - San Jose - Came off the bench and played 10 minutes in San Jose's 1-0 loss to Colorado.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Just signed with San Jose.
Carey Talley - DC United - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 1-0 loss to New England.
Tyson Wahl - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-0 win over Houston.
Alex Zotinca - Chivas USA - Did not dress in Chivas' 2-1 loss to Toronto FC.

USSF Division 2
Doug DeMartin - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 2-2 draw with Minnesota.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Started and played 90 minutes in Minnesota's 2-2 draw with Portland.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Started and played 90 minutes in Baltimore's 0-0 with Montreal.
Aaron Hohlbein - Miami - Started and played 90 minutes in Miami's 1-1 draw with Puerto Rico.
Neal Kitson - Rochester - Started and played 90 minutes, recording the shutout in Rochester's 2-0 win over Carolina.
Amir Lowery - Carolina - Started and played 90 minutes in Carolina's 2-0 win over Montreal. Started and played 90 minutes in Carolina's 2-0 loss to Rochester.
Ryan Pore - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes, recording a goal and an assist in Portland's 2-2 draw with Minnesota.
Abe Thompson - Miami - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Miami's 1-1 draw with Puerto Rico.
Lance Watson - Austin - Started and played 83 minutes, scoring a goal in Austin's 4-2 win over Tampa Bay.

USL-2
Stephen Armstrong - Charleston - Did not dress in Charleston's 2-1 loss to Pittsburgh.
Edson Elcock - Richmond - Did not played in Richmond's 1-0 win over Harrisburg.
Tom Gray - Pittsburgh - Started and played 90 minutes in Pittsburgh's 1-1 draw with Harrisburg. Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Pittsburgh's 2-1 win over Charleston.
Yomby William - Richmond - Started and played 90 minutes in Richmond's 1-0 win over Harrisburg.
John Wilson - Charleston - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Charleston's 2-1 loss to Pittsburgh.

PDL
Byron Carmichael - Ocean City - Season is over.
Mauro Fuzetti - Michigan - Season is over.
Sergei Raad - Central Florida - Season is over.
Michael Todd - Long Island - Season is over.

National teams
Herculez Gomez - USA - Came off the bench and played 23 minutes in the USA's 2-0 loss to Brazil.
Yura Movsisyan - Armenia - Came off the bench and played 15 minutes in Armenia's 3-1 loss to Iran.

International
Vicente Arze - Aurora - Aurora's game with Real Potosi was postponed.
Herculez Gomez - Pachuca - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 23 minutes in Pachuca's 3-0 loss to Santos.
Chris Konopka - Waterford United - Ireland - Did not play in Waterford's 3-0 loss to Shelbourne.
Yura Movsisyan - Randers FC - Denmark - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Randers' 1-1 draw with Lausanne Sports, losing 4-3 on aggregate. Started and played 90 minutes in Randers 0-0 draw with Horsens.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportes Quindío - Colombia - Did not play in Quindio's 1-0 loss to Athletico Nacional.
Diego Walsh - Wellington Phoenix - Australia - Season starts this Friday.

Some Looking Ahead

Today, Pete Grathoff posted bits of an interview he did with the Wizards vice president of development, David Ficklin. The 3 main topics discussed were the Omar Bravo rumors, the stadium opening and naming rights. First with regards to Bravo, Ficklin plays a little coy when asked if Bravo is going to be a Wizard, first saying he's our player, then when pushed about it says "isn't he?" This seems to be a bit of a joke based on all the information that's come out lately about Bravo coming to KC. Ficklin said that "Bravo is playing in this stadium next year." Which again could certainly be read as that he's signed with KC. Course he also says that he doesn't know what color uniform he'd be wearing. That's either a point towards the rebranding rumor that continue to make the rounds, or it could possibly mean something else. Another thought that was brought up was that maybe Bravo would be here playing for Chivas Guadalajara in a friendly. If the sign and loan deal that was talked about in the Mexican media is true, maybe part of the deal was that Guadalajara would play a friendly here.

The second part that Ficklin and Grathoff talk about is the opening event at the stadium. Previously Robb Heineman had mentioned that they were trying to get a national team game here as the opening event. Ficklin elaborates on that comment saying that they are trying to bring in the US national team as part of the Gold Cup. The 2011 Gold Cup begins on the 5th of June and runs through the 25th. It would be part of a double header with a Wizards game. I love the idea of bringing in the national team, it'd be great to bring the US team back to KC for the first time since 2001. I'm not sure I do like the idea of a double header with the Wizards though. I'd like the Wizards first game at the new stadium to have them be the main attraction, not a game involving the national team. I'm not against the US team opening the stadium, I'm just not sure I'm a fan of the double header idea.

Finally, it sounds like the Wizards are close to finalizing naming rights for the stadium. The team hopes to have it announced this year. Currently 2 companies are bidding for the naming rights of the stadium. The revenue from that would certainly be a boost to the club. The next step would likely be to bring in a jersey sponsor as well.

Rangers Beat Rockhurst

Today out at the Wizards Swope Park training complex, the Swope Park Rangers took on Rockhurst University in a friendly match today. The Rangers took the game to Rockhurst, beating them 4-0. The star of the day appears to be Graham Zusi, who set up the first goal and scored the next two. Zusi set up Josh Wolff with a nice through ball that Wolff chipped over the keeper. Zusi's first goal was a chip as well, and his second was off of a header. The 4th goal by the Rangers was scored in the second half. The Twitter posts by the Wizards was a little confusing, but it sounded like the 4th goal was scored by Juniors forward, Jordan Rideout. A nice win in a run out for the Juniors.

Thomas Called Up by Jamaica

The Wizards announced today that Wizards defender, Shavar Thomas was called up by the Jamaican national team for their friendly tonight against Trinidad and Tobago. The two teams play in Trinidad tonight with a 7pm kickoff. Thomas will join the Wizards in San Jose for the game this weekend against the Earthquakes. Thomas will likely have company on his flight, as Earthquakes forward, Ryan Johnson was also called up for the game. Good luck to Thomas and Jamaica tonight.

Congrats to Preki

Congratulations to former Wizards great, Preki, who was inducted into the US Soccer Hall of Fame today in a ceremony before the US-Brazil game in New York. Elected into the hall with Preki were Bruce Arena, Kyle Rote Jr, and Thomas Dooley. Congratulations to all 4, now next year maybe the hall will elect Bob Gansler in the builders' category, his election (like Preki's this year) is long overdue.

Goal of the Week Voting

Been a while since one of these have been posted. The save of the week nominees have come in bunches for goalkeeper, Jimmy Nielsen (and I'm sure he'll have another this week). This week though the Wizards also have a goal of the week nominee. Kei Kamara's header into the elbow of the goal is one of the 5 up for goal of the week this week. It was a fantastic header, but the highlights don't do the assist by Ryan Smith justice as it cuts out the cut he does on the two defenders. Still you can go vote, and watch the goal below.

Sunday After Stats

Lots of stats this week for Michael Harrington, here are all this week's stats.

Kei Kamara's goal was his 7th league goal of the season, a career high for him.

Davy Arnaud made his 235th appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Chris Klein for 4th place on that list.

In the 42nd minute of the game last night, Michael Harrington moved past Mark Chung and into 18th place for the most minutes played in league play, Harrington finished the game with 8318 minutes played.

In the 88th minute of the game, Harrington moved past Chris Brown and into 17th place for the most minutes played in all competitions for KC. Harrington finished the game with 9460 minutes in all competitions.

Harrington also made his 104th appearance in league place for KC, breaking his tie with Digital Takawira for 19th place on that list.

Harrington made his 102nd start in all competitions, tying him with Sasha Victorine for 18th place on that list.

He also made his 92 start in league play for KC, tying him with Bo Oshoniyi for 18th place on that list.

Wizards Take a Point

While it feels good to grab a point against the defending MLS Cup Champion's Real Salt Lake, the Wizards need to start getting 3 points from their home games, especially when they open the game the way that they did last night. Hopefully the Wizards can start turning these 1 points into 3 points. Because it'll be needed for a playoff run.

The Wizards started the game fantastically for KC, they were controlling the game and creating chances. Ryan Smith in particular had a very strong performance as he left Salt Lake defenders picking up their jock multiple times. One of those times inside the first 10 minutes almost led to KC opening the score. Smith's cross was met by Teal Bunbury, whose shot was blocked. The ball fell into the path of Davy Arnaud, but RSL goalkeeper Nick Rimando beat Arnaud to the ball smothering the ball. KC continued to press the game with Smith attacking down both wings and putting in crosses. Michael Harrington and Roger Espinoza did as well. KC had some half chances and some chances wide, but couldn't get the final touch. The play though finally paid off for KC in the 21st minute. After some sustained possession by the Wizards Harrington played a cross in from the right that went through the box to the left side. Smith picked the ball up, turned his defender and played a great ball into the box. Kei Kamara beat his defender and headed it into the corner of the goal. The header was perfectly placed, leaving no chance for Rimando to score.

After the goal KC seemed to sit back a bit, and RSL was able to come at KC more and controlled the game more. KC still got some control and possession, but it was RSL that had more of the ball. In the 33rd minute, a cross from Robbie Russell was met by Robbie Findley who was left wide open in the middle of the box. Findley headed it past Jimmy Nielsen in net, and immediately Nielsen called for a hand ball. And while post game Findley admitted to it coming off his hand, the goal stood and the score was level. Even with the hand ball it was a totally blown marking assignment by the Wizards as Findley had acres of space in the Wizards box.

In the second half RSL almost took the lead only a few minutes into the half as Javier Morales got in on goal, but Nielsen turned in his weekly save of the week nominee, stopping Morales. Morales worked to take the game over in the second half as he had RSL's best chances. Later in the half off of a free kick Nielsen again had to come up with a big save on Morales to keep the game level. In the 75th minute Morales again came close with a blast from long range, but it was over Nielsen's net. KC had their chances as well, as Smith sent a rocket of a shot just wide of the post as he continued to turn defenders inside out. In the 86th the Wizards thought they'd found a winner from Bunbury, but he collected a deflected ball from Graham Zusi. An unfortunate play, but Bunbury was just offside. Both teams had to take only a point out of the game.

Wizards Man of the Match - Ryan Smith - Smith was smooth all night. Turning players inside out offensively all night. He played in some great crosses, including a great one for Kamara's goal. Those were flashes of the style of play that had made him a future star in England.

Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Harrington 5, Thomas 5, Conrad 6, Espinoza 6, Arnaud 6, Auvray 7, Rocastle 5, Kamara 6, Bunbury 7, Smith 8. Subs Zusi 5, Jewsbury NR.

Wizards Acquire Bravo but Loan Him Back to Chivas

Last night we heard that a deal for forward Omar Bravo was mere hours away, today reports out of Mexico indicate that a deal is now done. But those looking to see Bravo in Wizards blue this season look like they'll have to wait. The reports say that the Wizards will loan Bravo to Chivas for the rest of 2010. This was a deal that Chivas had wanted, so that Bravo could play in the Copa Libertadores final and the Apertura season down in Mexico. Bravo, whose loan with Chivas ended today will return to Chivas again on loan. This time instead of being loaned from his club in Spain, it'll be from the Wizards.

Take the news for what you will, because the Google translation of the article does say that the team is currently in last place (which they are not) and have no chance of qualifying for the playoffs (it's still a long shot, but they still have a chance).

I am not sure what to make of this news. On one side I'm happy that the team is working to bring in a designated player. On the other side, I had hoped it would have been for this season to help in a playoff push, especially with the two open roster spots that we currently have after the loaning of Sunil Chhetri and Aaron Hohlbein. Guess we'll have to wait and see on final word of the deal, either way this entire thing is giving me a headache.

Bravo Deal "Hours Away"

Reports out of Mexico tonight indicate that a deal to finalize the move of Omar Bravo to the KC Wizards is "hours away". They hope to finish the deal today because according to Chivas' owner Jorge Vergara, that is the deadline set by Mexican soccer. Whether that means today as in the next 24 hours or today the 6th is up for debate. This deal has been dragging out for a few weeks now since Chivas announced that a transfer would take place on their website. While Vergara and Chivas have actively been talking about a deal being done, or as in the case of this article close to being done, the Wizards have been denying that a deal is as close as Chivas has made it seem. We'll see where this news goes, if it is "hours away" hopefully we'll hear something from KC on this tomorrow.

The Champs Come to Town

The Wizards are looking to continue their 3 game league unbeaten run tomorrow night out at Community America Ballpark against the defending MLS Cup Champions, Real Salt Lake. RSL is beginning a busy part of their schedule as they have 3 MLS games in the next two weeks, along with a CONCACAF Champion's League group play match. With the busy schedule, you can bet the Wizards are hoping to catch RSL napping. Course with the jerseys it looks like RSL will be wearing, it might be hard for anyone to fall asleep. RSL comes into this game with plenty of confidence having dispatched DC United at home 3-0 in Curt Onalfo's last game as coach of the team.

Confidence should be a little higher for the Wizards after their past few games. Hopefully it can continue. The one big worry heading into this week, is the health of left winger/forward Ryan Smith. Smith pulled up lame in the team's 1-0 win over Toronto with some type of hamstring injury. At the moment he's questionable, which is higher than I thought he would be heading into this weekend's game. That said I don't really expect him to play this week even though he has practiced a bit. It would appear that Josh Wolff would be the favorite to take his place, but he too is currently listed as questionable for the game against RSL. If Wolff can't go it may become Chance Myers chance to return up top, mainly due to lack of options on the bench. Another option could be to put Davy Arnaud up top and slide Graham Zusi into the midfield, or even put Zusi as the left sided player. In the end I think that Wolff will play if Smith cannot.

Nielsen
Harrington - Conrad - Thomas - Espinoza
Arnaud - Auvray - Rocastle
Kamara - Bunbury - Wolff

Key Match Up - Stephane Auvray vs Kyle Beckerman - The battle of the dreads, and a battle of two of the better midfielders in MLS Auvray and Beckerman may not match up head to head. But the way each of them controls the midfield will have a huge effect on who wins this game.

PREDICTION - RSL is playing very well, they've lost only 1 of their last 13 league matches and have been an incredibly consistent team other than their loss to Dallas. This will be a big test for the Wizards and whether they can continue their unbeaten run. I want to say I can see it, but with the Wizards continued struggles to put the ball in the net (even during their unbeaten run they've only scored 3 goals) doesn't fill me with a lot of confidence. Hopefully the Wizards can grab all 3 and to make the playoffs I think they need to continue to win their home, but it's going to be hard to beat one of the best teams in the league.

KC - 1 (Kamara)
RSL - 1 (Morales)