There's been a lot of shaking up in the front offices of teams already eliminated from the playoff race. And today a former Wizard joined the list of coaches now in the unemployment line. Frank Klopas who played two seasons with KC back in 1996 and 1997 "stepped down" as coach of the team. He'd spent the last few years as Chicago's technical director and the last two plus years pulling double duty as the team's coach as well.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Jonathan Leathers
Scott Sealy
Ivan Trujillo
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
MLS
Davy Arnaud - Montreal - Started and played 57 minutes in Montreal's 1-0 loss to Toronto.
Bobby Convey - Toronto - Started and played 90 minutes in Toronto's 1-0 win over Montreal.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - No game this week.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 5-0 win over Chivas.
Kevin Hartman - New York - Did not dress in New York's 5-2 win over Chicago.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 5-0 win over Chivas.
Eddie Johnson - Seattle - Started and played 78 minutes in Seattle's 1-1 draw with LA. Playing Colorado tonight.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 win over Montreal.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 5-0 win over Chivas.
Khari Stephenson - Salt Lake - No game this week.
Michael Thomas - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 win over Montreal.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 1-0 loss to New England.
Konrad Warzycha - Columbus - Did not dress in Columbus' 1-0 loss to New England.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 3-1 loss to Minnesota.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Came off the bench and played 68 minutes in Minnesota's 3-1 win over Fort Lauderdale.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason
Boris Pardo - Missouri - Offseason
Craig Rocastle - Missouri - Offseason
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Belgium - Did not dress in either of Sporting's games.
Stephane Auvray - DPMM FC - Brunei (Singapore League) - No game this week.
Omar Bravo - Atlas - Mexico - Started and played 80 minutes in Atlas' 3-1 win over Queretaro.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Tied Patriotas Cordoba.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes in Bengaluru's 2-0 loss to East Bengal.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Did not play in UAI's 3-1 loss to Deportivo Armenio.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connections 2-0 win over Point Fortin Civic FC.
Pablo Escobar - Patriotas Boyaca - Colombia - Did not play in Boyaca's 0-0 draw wiht Medellin.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Came off the bench and played 18 minutes in Wigan's 0-0 draw with Charlton. Dressed but did not play in Wigan's 0-0 draw with QPR.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 29 minutes in Tijuana's 0-0 draw with Tigres.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - Dressed but did not play in either of Atletico's games.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 83 minutes in AZAL's 2-0 loss to Inter Baki.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Started and played 86 minutes, scoring a goal in Middlesbrough's 4-0 win over Doncaster.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Started and played 90 minutes in Slavia's 1-0 loss to Belshina.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Did not dress in San Martin's 2-2 draw with Juan Aurich.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Did not dress in Servette's 1-0 win over Winterthur.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 72 minutes, scoring a goal in Spartak's 2-0 win over Rostov. Did not dress in Spartak's 1-0 cup win over Shinnik.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - Did not dress in Zilina's 2-1 loss to Dukla.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Dressed but did not play in RoPS' 2-0 loss to Jaro.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in Blackburn's 2-2 draw with Blackpool.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Came off the bench and played 27 minutes in Atyrau's 1-0 win over Taraz.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 61 minutes in Munster's 4-0 loss to Darmstadt 98.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Monday, October 28, 2013
5 Plays that Cost Sporting the Supporters' Shield
Sporting just missed out on winning the 2013 Supporters' Shield after the New York Red Bulls beat the Chicago Fire 5-2 on the last day of the season. But there were a handful of plays, in certain games that kept KC from getting the Shield. Here's a list of five plays that helped to cost KC the Supporters' Shield this year.
Before I get started and before anyone comments. It is a two way road, while this list will contain moments where KC lost the Shield, there are similar instances where KC pushed themselves closer to the Shield. The late Ike Opara goal against Salt Lake for example. And I also understand that New York has moments like this, including giving up seven points in three games against the three worst teams in the league (3-2 away loss to Chivas, 0-0 draw in Toronto, and a 0-0 home draw with DC United). So let's get it out of the way that I understand that situation.
Now on with the list.
5. 8/3 - Lloyd Sam goal to make it 3-1
Having just given up a goal to allow New York to grab the lead just 6 minutes early, Sporting were throwing numbers forward looking for another equalizer. Off a Benny Feilhaber free kick, the ball stayed around the New York goal until Soony Saad took a shot that was right at Luis Robles. Robles quickly distributed the ball wide to Jonny Steele. With Seth Sinovic on him, Steele raced down the wing before curling a ball across the field for Sam. Peterson Joseph attempted to recover, but Sam used his first touch to cut inside Joseph and he fired a shot past Jimmy Nielsen and into the net. The goal turned out to be the game winner as Dom Dwyer scored late in the game to make it 3-2.
4. 3/9 Robert Earnshaw gives TFC a very early lead
After a season opening win in Philadelphia, where the team came from behind to win 3-1, Sporting went into the game against TFC with confidence. They faced a Toronto side who hadn't won a home game since July of the previous season. Even with what appeared to be a poor surface, most people expected Sporting to at least get a point out of the game. But less than four minutes into the game as KC was passing the ball around their defensive third, Matt Besler played a square ball to Aurelien Collin. Besler though didn't get enough on the pass and Earnshaw stepped in front of Collin winning the ball. Earnshaw walked in on goal and beat Nielsen to give Toronto an early lead. It was only the start of a nightmare first 25 minutes as later KC would give up a penalty that Earnshaw would convert to make it 2-0 and KC would end up falling 2-1.
3. 5/8 Seattle does it to KC again
Seattle has made a habit of scoring late goals against KC and it happened again this year. In their only match up against the 2012 US Open Cup finalist. In stoppage time the Sounders had a throw in deep in KC's end. the throw in was short, but got flicked into the middle of the box. Collin missed on a clearance and the ball fell to Djimi Traore who beat Nielsen as the Sporting keeper and other KC players were calling for a handball on Traore. But once again Seattle score late on KC.
2. 6/22 Late Dallas equalizer splits points
In front of the largest traveling supporters group that KC has probably ever seen, KC didn't play extremely well, but ended up being on top of Dallas 2-0 around the hour mark. A red card to CJ Sapong in the 68th minute put KC on the back foot the rest of the way. In the 88th minute, Dallas did finally find the net to get within a goal. But KC fans had to feel confident that they could still walk away with all three points, I mean this was the defense that was best in the league last year and while they'd had a few issues this year, was still quite good. A free kick near the corner flag was played into the middle, where rookie, Walker Zimmerman had been Kei Kamara to the ball and headed it past Nielsen and into the net as KC had to settle for just a single point.
1. 5/19 Ike Opara goal ruled out
Up to this point, all the plays have come down to mistakes on the part of a Sporting KC player that has led to the goal. And I can accept mistakes on the field, because they happen numerous times during the season. But this last one isn't due to a player mistake, it's due to a refereeing mistake. Now referee mistakes happen every game, but not all of them bring a response from the Professional Referee Organization. In the 30th minute, with the game 0-0, the ball was played towards the end line for Matt Besler who had made his way up field. Belser knocked the ball back to Jacob Peterson as he fell to the ground. Peterson played the ball through the box to the back post for Opara who tapped the ball into the net. Referee Matt Nelson though raised his flag calling the play offside. Replays showed at least three players between Opara and the goal.
All these plays and that's not mentioning any from KC's 3-2 loss at home to Portland, their 2-1 home loss to Montreal, or Camilo's free kick at the very end of the first half in Vancouver's 1-1 draw in KC.
Before I get started and before anyone comments. It is a two way road, while this list will contain moments where KC lost the Shield, there are similar instances where KC pushed themselves closer to the Shield. The late Ike Opara goal against Salt Lake for example. And I also understand that New York has moments like this, including giving up seven points in three games against the three worst teams in the league (3-2 away loss to Chivas, 0-0 draw in Toronto, and a 0-0 home draw with DC United). So let's get it out of the way that I understand that situation.
Now on with the list.
5. 8/3 - Lloyd Sam goal to make it 3-1
Having just given up a goal to allow New York to grab the lead just 6 minutes early, Sporting were throwing numbers forward looking for another equalizer. Off a Benny Feilhaber free kick, the ball stayed around the New York goal until Soony Saad took a shot that was right at Luis Robles. Robles quickly distributed the ball wide to Jonny Steele. With Seth Sinovic on him, Steele raced down the wing before curling a ball across the field for Sam. Peterson Joseph attempted to recover, but Sam used his first touch to cut inside Joseph and he fired a shot past Jimmy Nielsen and into the net. The goal turned out to be the game winner as Dom Dwyer scored late in the game to make it 3-2.
4. 3/9 Robert Earnshaw gives TFC a very early lead
After a season opening win in Philadelphia, where the team came from behind to win 3-1, Sporting went into the game against TFC with confidence. They faced a Toronto side who hadn't won a home game since July of the previous season. Even with what appeared to be a poor surface, most people expected Sporting to at least get a point out of the game. But less than four minutes into the game as KC was passing the ball around their defensive third, Matt Besler played a square ball to Aurelien Collin. Besler though didn't get enough on the pass and Earnshaw stepped in front of Collin winning the ball. Earnshaw walked in on goal and beat Nielsen to give Toronto an early lead. It was only the start of a nightmare first 25 minutes as later KC would give up a penalty that Earnshaw would convert to make it 2-0 and KC would end up falling 2-1.
3. 5/8 Seattle does it to KC again
Seattle has made a habit of scoring late goals against KC and it happened again this year. In their only match up against the 2012 US Open Cup finalist. In stoppage time the Sounders had a throw in deep in KC's end. the throw in was short, but got flicked into the middle of the box. Collin missed on a clearance and the ball fell to Djimi Traore who beat Nielsen as the Sporting keeper and other KC players were calling for a handball on Traore. But once again Seattle score late on KC.
2. 6/22 Late Dallas equalizer splits points
In front of the largest traveling supporters group that KC has probably ever seen, KC didn't play extremely well, but ended up being on top of Dallas 2-0 around the hour mark. A red card to CJ Sapong in the 68th minute put KC on the back foot the rest of the way. In the 88th minute, Dallas did finally find the net to get within a goal. But KC fans had to feel confident that they could still walk away with all three points, I mean this was the defense that was best in the league last year and while they'd had a few issues this year, was still quite good. A free kick near the corner flag was played into the middle, where rookie, Walker Zimmerman had been Kei Kamara to the ball and headed it past Nielsen and into the net as KC had to settle for just a single point.
1. 5/19 Ike Opara goal ruled out
Up to this point, all the plays have come down to mistakes on the part of a Sporting KC player that has led to the goal. And I can accept mistakes on the field, because they happen numerous times during the season. But this last one isn't due to a player mistake, it's due to a refereeing mistake. Now referee mistakes happen every game, but not all of them bring a response from the Professional Referee Organization. In the 30th minute, with the game 0-0, the ball was played towards the end line for Matt Besler who had made his way up field. Belser knocked the ball back to Jacob Peterson as he fell to the ground. Peterson played the ball through the box to the back post for Opara who tapped the ball into the net. Referee Matt Nelson though raised his flag calling the play offside. Replays showed at least three players between Opara and the goal.
All these plays and that's not mentioning any from KC's 3-2 loss at home to Portland, their 2-1 home loss to Montreal, or Camilo's free kick at the very end of the first half in Vancouver's 1-1 draw in KC.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Sporting to Play New England in Playoffs
For about 45 minutes, it looked like Sporting KC was potentially going to pick up some silverware. New York and Chicago were level at 1-1 and that would have been enough to give KC the Supporters' Shield. Unfortunately the second half saw New York score four unanswered goals and win 5-2 to give themselves their first trophy in club history.
The result means that Sporting KC finishes as the second seed in the Eastern Conference. On one hand it's a blessing in disguise for Sporting KC as Sporting's playoff kryptonite, Houston, is the four seed and will host Montreal. They'll play New York if they win. Sporting instead will get the New England Revolution.
The Revolution will host the first leg this coming weekend. Gillette Stadium is apparently fully booked, as the Patriots play at home on Sunday the 3rd, and the University of Massachusetts play Saturday afternoon. That means the playoff game will be sandwiched between the two football games and we'll have lots of football markings on the field. Tickets for the game Saturday are being sold with the start time looking to be 8pm Eastern time, 7pm Central.
Of the match ups that KC could have, I think this fits best for KC. The way the Revolution plays matches up well with KC. The one x-factor for the Revs though is Juan Agudelo who didn't play in KC's matches against the Revs earlier this year. The way he's played he's going to cause KC some trouble, but on paper, Sporting should be able to take this series.
If you're worried about CCL qualification, Sporting can still qualify by just winning this series. If both Sporting and New York advance to the conference finals, Sporting will qualify for the CCL. The reason for this is that the four US CCL spots go to the Supporters' Shield winner, US Open Cup winner, and the two MLS Cup finalists. So if both KC and NY win and then NY wins the series with KC, they'd get two spots, so one would go to the next team in the single table standings, KC.
The result means that Sporting KC finishes as the second seed in the Eastern Conference. On one hand it's a blessing in disguise for Sporting KC as Sporting's playoff kryptonite, Houston, is the four seed and will host Montreal. They'll play New York if they win. Sporting instead will get the New England Revolution.
The Revolution will host the first leg this coming weekend. Gillette Stadium is apparently fully booked, as the Patriots play at home on Sunday the 3rd, and the University of Massachusetts play Saturday afternoon. That means the playoff game will be sandwiched between the two football games and we'll have lots of football markings on the field. Tickets for the game Saturday are being sold with the start time looking to be 8pm Eastern time, 7pm Central.
Of the match ups that KC could have, I think this fits best for KC. The way the Revolution plays matches up well with KC. The one x-factor for the Revs though is Juan Agudelo who didn't play in KC's matches against the Revs earlier this year. The way he's played he's going to cause KC some trouble, but on paper, Sporting should be able to take this series.
If you're worried about CCL qualification, Sporting can still qualify by just winning this series. If both Sporting and New York advance to the conference finals, Sporting will qualify for the CCL. The reason for this is that the four US CCL spots go to the Supporters' Shield winner, US Open Cup winner, and the two MLS Cup finalists. So if both KC and NY win and then NY wins the series with KC, they'd get two spots, so one would go to the next team in the single table standings, KC.
Sunday After Stats
Lots of stats from yesterday's game. Here you go.
Jimmy Nielsen made his 90th consecutive league appearance and starting, tying Kevin Hartman's club record.
In the 61st minute, Jimmy Nielsen passed Josh Wolff and moved into 11th place for minutes played in league play. He finished the game with 11,497 minutes played.
Nielsen played every minute of the MLS regular season, tying his club record for appearances, starts, and minutes played in a single season that he set last year.
Nielsen made his 128th league start for KC, tying him with Josh Wolff and Michael Harrington for 9th all time on that list.
The win was Nielsen's 63rd in all competitions for KC, tying him with Tony Meola for the most in team history.
Lawrence Olum made his 50th appearance in all competitions in KC. He's the 55th player to hit that mark for KC.
Graham Zusi's goal was his 17th league goal for KC, tying him with Eddie Johnson and Jimmy Conrad for 12th on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 19th in all competitions, breaking his tie with Matt McKeon for 14th place on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 6th in league play awary from home, tying him with Francisco Gomez and Aurelien Collin for 15th on that list.
It was his 7th goal in all competitions away from home, tying him with Johnson for 16th on that list.
Zusi made his 123rd league appearance, tying him with Chris Brown for 15th place on that list.
In the 59th minute, Chance Myers moved past Kei Kamara and into 19th place for minutes played in all competitions for KC. Myers finished the game with 9,999 minutes played.
Then in the 80th minute Myers moved past Sean Bowers and into 18th place on that list.
Myers made his 116th league appearance, breaking his tie with Jose Burciaga for 19th on that list.
Myers made his 107th start in all competitions, breaking his tie with Roger Espinoza for 20th on that list.
Matt Besler made his 126th league appearance, breaking his tie with Tony Meola for 13th on that list.
Jimmy Nielsen made his 90th consecutive league appearance and starting, tying Kevin Hartman's club record.
In the 61st minute, Jimmy Nielsen passed Josh Wolff and moved into 11th place for minutes played in league play. He finished the game with 11,497 minutes played.
Nielsen played every minute of the MLS regular season, tying his club record for appearances, starts, and minutes played in a single season that he set last year.
Nielsen made his 128th league start for KC, tying him with Josh Wolff and Michael Harrington for 9th all time on that list.
The win was Nielsen's 63rd in all competitions for KC, tying him with Tony Meola for the most in team history.
Lawrence Olum made his 50th appearance in all competitions in KC. He's the 55th player to hit that mark for KC.
Graham Zusi's goal was his 17th league goal for KC, tying him with Eddie Johnson and Jimmy Conrad for 12th on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 19th in all competitions, breaking his tie with Matt McKeon for 14th place on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 6th in league play awary from home, tying him with Francisco Gomez and Aurelien Collin for 15th on that list.
It was his 7th goal in all competitions away from home, tying him with Johnson for 16th on that list.
Zusi made his 123rd league appearance, tying him with Chris Brown for 15th place on that list.
In the 59th minute, Chance Myers moved past Kei Kamara and into 19th place for minutes played in all competitions for KC. Myers finished the game with 9,999 minutes played.
Then in the 80th minute Myers moved past Sean Bowers and into 18th place on that list.
Myers made his 116th league appearance, breaking his tie with Jose Burciaga for 19th on that list.
Myers made his 107th start in all competitions, breaking his tie with Roger Espinoza for 20th on that list.
Matt Besler made his 126th league appearance, breaking his tie with Tony Meola for 13th on that list.
What We Want to Happen 10/27
Sporting KC took care of their side of business yesterday, pulling off a late 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union. Now Kansas City comes into the final day of the season with a chance to win the Supporters' Shield. Here's what we want to happen today on the final day of the regular season.
Houston at DC
What we want to happen - DC win
A DC win and the Dynamo are eliminated from playoff contention. And I think most KC fans would be perfectly happy with not seeing Houston in the playoffs this year.
New England at Columbus
What we want to happen - New England win
We want New England to win because it keeps the pressure on Chicago. It would put the Fire into the 5 seed for the play in game on the road.
Chicago at New York
What we want to happen - Chicago win/draw
This is the big one. If Chicago can take some points off of the Red Bulls today, Sporting KC walks away with the Supporters' Shield.
Colorado at Vancouver
What we want to happen - Result does not matter.
The result has no affect on KC.
LA at Seattle
What we want to happen - LA win
Really there's not a lot in this for KC, but the loser of this game plays the play in game against the Rapids. And personally the thought of a potential Portland-Seattle match up in the playoffs is kind of exciting.
Houston at DC
What we want to happen - DC win
A DC win and the Dynamo are eliminated from playoff contention. And I think most KC fans would be perfectly happy with not seeing Houston in the playoffs this year.
New England at Columbus
What we want to happen - New England win
We want New England to win because it keeps the pressure on Chicago. It would put the Fire into the 5 seed for the play in game on the road.
Chicago at New York
What we want to happen - Chicago win/draw
This is the big one. If Chicago can take some points off of the Red Bulls today, Sporting KC walks away with the Supporters' Shield.
Colorado at Vancouver
What we want to happen - Result does not matter.
The result has no affect on KC.
LA at Seattle
What we want to happen - LA win
Really there's not a lot in this for KC, but the loser of this game plays the play in game against the Rapids. And personally the thought of a potential Portland-Seattle match up in the playoffs is kind of exciting.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Sporting Put the Pressure on New York
Sporting KC got a goal from an unlikely source today and put the pressure on New York tomorrow. Lawrence Olum was the unlikely hero for Sporting KC, scoring the winner for KC in stoppage time to give KC a 2-1 win over the Union at PPL Park.
The first half of the game was an extremely chippy affair, with both teams committing a number of fouls. KC had the first really good opportunity in the 14th minute. After some passing around the back, Aurelien Collin played the ball over the top to Dom Dwyer. Dwyer took the ball down off his chest, settled the ball, turned and fired a shot that just missed Zach MacMath's near post. KC had another great opportunity in the 23rd minute. Off a free kick, Graham Zusi played a ball to the top of the box. The ball took a bounce and fell to Jacob Peterson all alone in front of goal. Peterson one timed the shot, but with the entire goal to shoot at, he hit it right at MacMath who easily made the save. Philadelphia had chances of their own as the wind definitely played a role in the chances. A cross by the Union had to be palmed away by Jimmy Nielsen as it floated in on goal.
In the second half it did not take long for KC to grab a lead. Off a Matt Besler long throw, Olum flicked the ball on to the back post where Antoine Hoppenot had lost Zusi. The US international scored the second headed goal of his competitive career, both in less than a month and KC went up 1-0. With the lead, Philadelphia had to push the game more, which left them more exposed in the back. In the 70th minute, KC could have doubled the lead. Dwyer picked out Zusi who was racing in past the Union defense. He squared the ball for Soony Saad, but his shot from the top of the box was knocked away by MacMath to keep the game 1-0. Shortly after that opportunity, the Union had a good opportunity. A cross into the back post found Sebastien Le Toux coming into the box, but his one time volley was high and wide of Nielsen's goal. The Union continued to pressure and in the 76th minute, Sporting needed Seth Sinovic to come up with a save on the line after a long throw. The throw came in to Jack McInerney whose shot was on goal but Sinovic was there to head the ball away. The Union continued to threaten and KC seemed to sink deeper and deeper in their own end. It felt only a matter of time before the Union equalizer. After KC couldn't get enough on a clearance, a ball was floated over the top for McInerney who inside the box one timed a shot past Neilsen and into the net leveling the game. With the game level the Union pushed for a winner, but it was Sporting that looked better on the counter. Just into stoppage time, KC should have taken the lead as Bunbury and Peterson had a 2v1 on Philadelphia. Bunbury got the defender to commit to him and played the ball across to an open Peterson who again shot the ball at MacMath who made the easy save. A minute later Sporting grabbed the winner. A long ball from Nielsen over the top found Peterson in the corner. His cross to the back post took a bit of a deflection, but still found Bunbury at the back post. Instead of shooting the ball, Bunbury laid the ball back into the path of Olum who slotted the ball past MacMath and into the net giving KC the lead. KC was able to kill the rest of the clock and put KC back on top of the league, requiring New York to beat Chicago tomorrow to win the Supporters' Shield.
Wizards Man of the Match - Lawrence Olum - The hero in stoppage time with the winner had a strong game overall. He helped shut down the Philadelphia midfield, and also picked up an assist on Zusi's opener.
Honorable mention - Seth Sinovic.
Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Myers 5, Collin 5, Besler 6, Sinovic 7, Rosell 6, Olum 8, Zusi 7, Saad 6, Dwyer 5, Peterson 5. Subs Opara 5, Gardner 5, Bunbury 6.
The first half of the game was an extremely chippy affair, with both teams committing a number of fouls. KC had the first really good opportunity in the 14th minute. After some passing around the back, Aurelien Collin played the ball over the top to Dom Dwyer. Dwyer took the ball down off his chest, settled the ball, turned and fired a shot that just missed Zach MacMath's near post. KC had another great opportunity in the 23rd minute. Off a free kick, Graham Zusi played a ball to the top of the box. The ball took a bounce and fell to Jacob Peterson all alone in front of goal. Peterson one timed the shot, but with the entire goal to shoot at, he hit it right at MacMath who easily made the save. Philadelphia had chances of their own as the wind definitely played a role in the chances. A cross by the Union had to be palmed away by Jimmy Nielsen as it floated in on goal.
In the second half it did not take long for KC to grab a lead. Off a Matt Besler long throw, Olum flicked the ball on to the back post where Antoine Hoppenot had lost Zusi. The US international scored the second headed goal of his competitive career, both in less than a month and KC went up 1-0. With the lead, Philadelphia had to push the game more, which left them more exposed in the back. In the 70th minute, KC could have doubled the lead. Dwyer picked out Zusi who was racing in past the Union defense. He squared the ball for Soony Saad, but his shot from the top of the box was knocked away by MacMath to keep the game 1-0. Shortly after that opportunity, the Union had a good opportunity. A cross into the back post found Sebastien Le Toux coming into the box, but his one time volley was high and wide of Nielsen's goal. The Union continued to pressure and in the 76th minute, Sporting needed Seth Sinovic to come up with a save on the line after a long throw. The throw came in to Jack McInerney whose shot was on goal but Sinovic was there to head the ball away. The Union continued to threaten and KC seemed to sink deeper and deeper in their own end. It felt only a matter of time before the Union equalizer. After KC couldn't get enough on a clearance, a ball was floated over the top for McInerney who inside the box one timed a shot past Neilsen and into the net leveling the game. With the game level the Union pushed for a winner, but it was Sporting that looked better on the counter. Just into stoppage time, KC should have taken the lead as Bunbury and Peterson had a 2v1 on Philadelphia. Bunbury got the defender to commit to him and played the ball across to an open Peterson who again shot the ball at MacMath who made the easy save. A minute later Sporting grabbed the winner. A long ball from Nielsen over the top found Peterson in the corner. His cross to the back post took a bit of a deflection, but still found Bunbury at the back post. Instead of shooting the ball, Bunbury laid the ball back into the path of Olum who slotted the ball past MacMath and into the net giving KC the lead. KC was able to kill the rest of the clock and put KC back on top of the league, requiring New York to beat Chicago tomorrow to win the Supporters' Shield.
Wizards Man of the Match - Lawrence Olum - The hero in stoppage time with the winner had a strong game overall. He helped shut down the Philadelphia midfield, and also picked up an assist on Zusi's opener.
Honorable mention - Seth Sinovic.
Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Myers 5, Collin 5, Besler 6, Sinovic 7, Rosell 6, Olum 8, Zusi 7, Saad 6, Dwyer 5, Peterson 5. Subs Opara 5, Gardner 5, Bunbury 6.
What We Want to Happen Today 10/26
The final weekend of the MLS regular season kicks off with Sporting taking the field against Philadelphia. The weekend continues through 8pm tomorrow when LA and Seattle take the field. Wouldn't it be great if all these games took place at the same time? Having KC-Philadelphia, Chicago-New York, and Portland-Chivas all kicking off on the same time would certainly add to potential excitment when it comes to the Supporters' Shield. Instead all three games are played at different times. I understand with TV contracts and all the teams not controlling their venue that this is impossible right now, but a guy can dream.
Until that date, here's the what we want to happen for today.
Montreal at Toronto
What we want to happen - Montreal win
This is two fold. One if KC doesn't end up in first place in the East, there's only one team I'd rather play than Montreal right now, and that's New England because I feel KC match up better with those two teams. The other reason is that it helps to keep Houston, a team that I'm tired of facing in the playoffs, out.
Dallas at San Jose
What we want to happen - Result doesn't matter for KC.
Dallas is eliminated, and San Jose needs to score 12 AND Colorado has to lose for them to make the playoffs.
Portland at Chivas
What we want to happen - Chivas win
A win by Chivas keeps Portland from being able to catch KC on points no matter how KC does against Philadelphia. This again all comes down to potential MLS Cup opponents and hosting should KC make it there.
Until that date, here's the what we want to happen for today.
Montreal at Toronto
What we want to happen - Montreal win
This is two fold. One if KC doesn't end up in first place in the East, there's only one team I'd rather play than Montreal right now, and that's New England because I feel KC match up better with those two teams. The other reason is that it helps to keep Houston, a team that I'm tired of facing in the playoffs, out.
Dallas at San Jose
What we want to happen - Result doesn't matter for KC.
Dallas is eliminated, and San Jose needs to score 12 AND Colorado has to lose for them to make the playoffs.
Portland at Chivas
What we want to happen - Chivas win
A win by Chivas keeps Portland from being able to catch KC on points no matter how KC does against Philadelphia. This again all comes down to potential MLS Cup opponents and hosting should KC make it there.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Sporting Can Only Worry About What They Can Control in Season Finale
Sporting Kansas City end the regular season tomorrow afternoon in Philadelphia, the same place they started the 2013 season. The began the season with a win against the Union, and they'll be looking to end the season the same way. A win against the Union would, at least temporarily, give Sporting KC the lead in the Supporters' Shield race, and would force the New York Red Bulls to win their season finale on Sunday against the Chicago Fire. And while it's tempting to think about that happening, Sporting need to focus on their game alone at this point. Sporting has to find away their current goal scoring woes. In the month of October, Sporting has scored just two goals, one by defender Ike Opara, the other by Dom Dwyer. While Sporting has picked it up defensively, not allowing a goal in the month, the team is going to need to score eventually if they have championship aspirations. While Sporting's lone MLS Cup has come from a stellar defensive effort, they still had Miklos Molnar up top to score goals.
The Union come into the game hanging on for dear life in the playoff race. Philadelphia needs a win over Kansas City and help from Columbus and DC to book a spot in the playoffs. If that doesn't happen they'll be watching the playoffs from their couch. Their strike force of Conor Casey and Jack McInerney have combined to score 21 goals this season and will be a handful for Sporting KC to deal with. The Union will have a hole in their midfield tomorrow though. Team captain, Brian Carroll is suspended for the game due to yellow card suspension. That'll leave a hole in hole in Philadelphia's midfield, in a position that Graham Zusi/Benny Feilhaber could exploit.
As I mentioned earlier, Sporting KC really needs to start finding the net heading into the playoffs. None of KC's forwards are in anything that you could call "in form" without breaking into fits of laughter. In fact over the last two months, CJ Sapong is the leading scorer for KC with three goals, and he hasn't scored since KC's 2-1 win over Toronto on 9/21. On Wednesday, Peter Vermes threw a number of first team players out in the 0-0 draw against Olimpia. Even with that, I'd expect KC's best eleven to be on the field when the game starts tomorrow. The only question is whether Vermes will go with more of a two defensive midfielder set up with Peterson Joseph next to Oriol Rosell, or start Feilhaber alongside Zusi.
Number to Remember - 3 - Three points, get three points, force New York to get all three of them on Sunday.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin/Matt Besler vs Conor Casey/Jack McInerney - As I mentioned earlier, Philly's forwards have a combined 21 goals this season. Sporting has yet to allow one this month and to continue that, Sporting's central defenders will have to shut down the Philadelphia attackers.
PREDICTION - Sporting can only take care of their own game. Just win tomorrow and on Sunday sit back and hope the Fire can steal a point or three on the road. But the key is to put the pressure right back on the Red Bulls. KC also has to have a little bit of revenge on their minds after Philadelphia's 1-0 win in KC a month ago. KC controlled that game, but a goal against the run of play saw Philly claim all three points. Hopefully KC can return that favor tomorrow, but I don't feel confident about it with the recent goal scoring woes.
SKC - 0
PHI - 0
The Union come into the game hanging on for dear life in the playoff race. Philadelphia needs a win over Kansas City and help from Columbus and DC to book a spot in the playoffs. If that doesn't happen they'll be watching the playoffs from their couch. Their strike force of Conor Casey and Jack McInerney have combined to score 21 goals this season and will be a handful for Sporting KC to deal with. The Union will have a hole in their midfield tomorrow though. Team captain, Brian Carroll is suspended for the game due to yellow card suspension. That'll leave a hole in hole in Philadelphia's midfield, in a position that Graham Zusi/Benny Feilhaber could exploit.
As I mentioned earlier, Sporting KC really needs to start finding the net heading into the playoffs. None of KC's forwards are in anything that you could call "in form" without breaking into fits of laughter. In fact over the last two months, CJ Sapong is the leading scorer for KC with three goals, and he hasn't scored since KC's 2-1 win over Toronto on 9/21. On Wednesday, Peter Vermes threw a number of first team players out in the 0-0 draw against Olimpia. Even with that, I'd expect KC's best eleven to be on the field when the game starts tomorrow. The only question is whether Vermes will go with more of a two defensive midfielder set up with Peterson Joseph next to Oriol Rosell, or start Feilhaber alongside Zusi.
Nielsen
Myers - Collin - Besler - Sinovic
Rosell
Feilhaber - Zusi
Saad - Dwyer - Sapong
Number to Remember - 3 - Three points, get three points, force New York to get all three of them on Sunday.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin/Matt Besler vs Conor Casey/Jack McInerney - As I mentioned earlier, Philly's forwards have a combined 21 goals this season. Sporting has yet to allow one this month and to continue that, Sporting's central defenders will have to shut down the Philadelphia attackers.
PREDICTION - Sporting can only take care of their own game. Just win tomorrow and on Sunday sit back and hope the Fire can steal a point or three on the road. But the key is to put the pressure right back on the Red Bulls. KC also has to have a little bit of revenge on their minds after Philadelphia's 1-0 win in KC a month ago. KC controlled that game, but a goal against the run of play saw Philly claim all three points. Hopefully KC can return that favor tomorrow, but I don't feel confident about it with the recent goal scoring woes.
SKC - 0
PHI - 0
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Sporting to Face Cruz Azul in CCL Quarterfinals
The final 8 for the 2013-2014 CONCACAF Champions League are set. Last night in their 0-0 draw with Olimpia, Sporting KC clinched a spot in the final 8, but had to wait until tonight to learn their opponent. With Houston losing in Panama tonight, Sporting KC got themselves locked into the 7th seed. Then the LA Galaxy lost 4-0 to Metapan setting Kansas City up against Mexican club, Cruz Azul.
The two teams will meet up in a home and away series when the season kicks back off in late February/early March. Should KC advance out of the group, they'd earn a match up against the winner of the Tijuana/LA Galaxy series.
KC will host the first leg of the series at Sporting Park before traveling to Mexico City for the second leg. It's not going to be easy going for KC in the match up. Only twice has an MLS team won a home-away series with a Mexican side. Kansas City did it against Santos back in 2002 losing 2-1 away before winning 2-0 at home. Seattle became the second team to do it in the 2012-2013 version of the tournament, topping UNAL 3-2 on aggregate (losing 1-0 away, winning 3-1 at home). Only twice have MLS teams won in Mexico as well, with Dallas and Seattle both winning in Mexico during the group stage of the 2011-2012 version of the tournament.
Personally I'd been hoping for a match up with the LA Galaxy. The match up would have been a better fit for KC coming out of preseason. Now KC will get a Cruz Azul team that will be in midseason form. Yes they would have eventually had to have played a Mexican team, but getting their feet under them to start would have been nice.
The two teams will meet up in a home and away series when the season kicks back off in late February/early March. Should KC advance out of the group, they'd earn a match up against the winner of the Tijuana/LA Galaxy series.
KC will host the first leg of the series at Sporting Park before traveling to Mexico City for the second leg. It's not going to be easy going for KC in the match up. Only twice has an MLS team won a home-away series with a Mexican side. Kansas City did it against Santos back in 2002 losing 2-1 away before winning 2-0 at home. Seattle became the second team to do it in the 2012-2013 version of the tournament, topping UNAL 3-2 on aggregate (losing 1-0 away, winning 3-1 at home). Only twice have MLS teams won in Mexico as well, with Dallas and Seattle both winning in Mexico during the group stage of the 2011-2012 version of the tournament.
Personally I'd been hoping for a match up with the LA Galaxy. The match up would have been a better fit for KC coming out of preseason. Now KC will get a Cruz Azul team that will be in midseason form. Yes they would have eventually had to have played a Mexican team, but getting their feet under them to start would have been nice.
Movsisyan Continues to Score - Former SKC Wizards Update
For the 7th time in this young season Yura Movsisyan scored again for Spartak Moscow. The Armenian international has been on fire for the Russian club. Combine that with his form for Armenia and the player has to be starting to get some looks from the big four leagues.
In other news, Kei Kamara will be getting a new manager as Middlesbrough has fired Tony Mowbray. Middlesbrough is sitting in the bottom half of the Championship at this point in the season. Also, another former Wizard is bringing his career to a close. Kevin Friedland has been playing in Minnesota with a number of different Minnesota clubs since leaving KC. He's calling it a career at the end of this season. Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Doug DeMartin
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Mauro Fuzetti
Willy Guadarrama
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Jonathan Leathers
Scott Lorenz
Amir Lowery
Scott Sealy
Ivan Trujillo
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
MLS
Davy Arnaud - Montreal - Started and played 71 minutes in Montreal's 2-1 win over Philadelphia.
Bobby Convey - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Chicago.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 90 minutes in Salt Lake's 0-0 draw with Portland. Started and played 90 minutes in Salt Lake's 2-1 win over Chivas.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 0-0 draw with Salt Lake.
Kevin Hartman - New York - Did not dress in New York's 3-0 win over Houston.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 0-0 draw with Salt Lake.
Eddie Johnson - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-0 loss to Dallas.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Chicago.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 0-0 draw with Salt Lake.
Khari Stephenson - Salt Lake - Dressed but did not play in Salt Lake's 0-0 draw with Portland. Did not dress in Salt Lake's 2-1 win over Chivas.
Michael Thomas - Toronto - Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Chicago.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 3-2 loss to New England.
Konrad Warzycha - Columbus - Did not dress in Columbus' 3-2 loss to New England.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 6-2 win over Atlanta.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 1-0 loss to Carolina.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason
Boris Pardo - Missouri - Offseason
Craig Rocastle - Missouri - Offseason
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Belgium - Did not dress in Charleroi's 2-2 draw with Standard Liege.
Stephane Auvray - DPMM FC - Brunei (Singapore League) - Did not dress in either of DPMM's games.
Omar Bravo - Atlas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Atlas' 2-0 loss to Puebla. Started and played 120 minutes in Atlas' 1-1 (5-4) PK shootout win over Alebrijes in the Copa Mexico.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Beat UA Zacatecas 2-2 (5-4) on penalty kicks.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes in Bengaluru's 3-1 win over Dempo.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Started and played 66 minutes in UAI's 2-1 loss to Atlanta.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 2-0 win over North East Stars.
Pablo Escobar - Patriotas Boyaca - Colombia - Did not play in Boyaca's 1-0 loss to La Equidad.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Dresssed but did not play in Wigan's 1-0 loss to Blackpool. Dressed but did not play in Wigan's 1-1 draw with Ruban Kazan.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 22 minutes in Tijuana's 0-0 draw with Toluca.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - Dressed but did not play in Atletico's 1-1 draw with Parana.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 2-2 draw with Baki.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Started and played 90 minutes in Middlesbrough's 3-2 loss to Barnsley.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Started and played 90 minutes in Slavia's 3-1 loss to Dinamo Brest.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 80 minutes in San Martin's 2-1 loss to Leon de Huanuco.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Did not dress in Servette's 0-0 draw with Vaduz.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 69 minutes, scoring a goal in Spartak's 1-0 win over Anzhi.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - Did not dress in either of Zilina's games.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Started and played 90 minutes in RoPS' 1-0 loss to MYPA.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in Blackburn's 1-0 loss to Charlton.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Came off the bench and played 14 minutes in Atyrau's 2-1 win over Vostok.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 65 minutes, scoring a goal in Munster's 4-0 win over Dortmund II.
In other news, Kei Kamara will be getting a new manager as Middlesbrough has fired Tony Mowbray. Middlesbrough is sitting in the bottom half of the Championship at this point in the season. Also, another former Wizard is bringing his career to a close. Kevin Friedland has been playing in Minnesota with a number of different Minnesota clubs since leaving KC. He's calling it a career at the end of this season. Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Doug DeMartin
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Mauro Fuzetti
Willy Guadarrama
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Jonathan Leathers
Scott Lorenz
Amir Lowery
Scott Sealy
Ivan Trujillo
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
MLS
Davy Arnaud - Montreal - Started and played 71 minutes in Montreal's 2-1 win over Philadelphia.
Bobby Convey - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Chicago.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 90 minutes in Salt Lake's 0-0 draw with Portland. Started and played 90 minutes in Salt Lake's 2-1 win over Chivas.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 0-0 draw with Salt Lake.
Kevin Hartman - New York - Did not dress in New York's 3-0 win over Houston.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 0-0 draw with Salt Lake.
Eddie Johnson - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 2-0 loss to Dallas.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Chicago.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 0-0 draw with Salt Lake.
Khari Stephenson - Salt Lake - Dressed but did not play in Salt Lake's 0-0 draw with Portland. Did not dress in Salt Lake's 2-1 win over Chivas.
Michael Thomas - Toronto - Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Chicago.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 3-2 loss to New England.
Konrad Warzycha - Columbus - Did not dress in Columbus' 3-2 loss to New England.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 6-2 win over Atlanta.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 1-0 loss to Carolina.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason
Boris Pardo - Missouri - Offseason
Craig Rocastle - Missouri - Offseason
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Belgium - Did not dress in Charleroi's 2-2 draw with Standard Liege.
Stephane Auvray - DPMM FC - Brunei (Singapore League) - Did not dress in either of DPMM's games.
Omar Bravo - Atlas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Atlas' 2-0 loss to Puebla. Started and played 120 minutes in Atlas' 1-1 (5-4) PK shootout win over Alebrijes in the Copa Mexico.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Beat UA Zacatecas 2-2 (5-4) on penalty kicks.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes in Bengaluru's 3-1 win over Dempo.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Started and played 66 minutes in UAI's 2-1 loss to Atlanta.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 2-0 win over North East Stars.
Pablo Escobar - Patriotas Boyaca - Colombia - Did not play in Boyaca's 1-0 loss to La Equidad.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Dresssed but did not play in Wigan's 1-0 loss to Blackpool. Dressed but did not play in Wigan's 1-1 draw with Ruban Kazan.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 22 minutes in Tijuana's 0-0 draw with Toluca.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - Dressed but did not play in Atletico's 1-1 draw with Parana.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 2-2 draw with Baki.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Started and played 90 minutes in Middlesbrough's 3-2 loss to Barnsley.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Started and played 90 minutes in Slavia's 3-1 loss to Dinamo Brest.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 80 minutes in San Martin's 2-1 loss to Leon de Huanuco.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Did not dress in Servette's 0-0 draw with Vaduz.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 69 minutes, scoring a goal in Spartak's 1-0 win over Anzhi.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - Did not dress in either of Zilina's games.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Started and played 90 minutes in RoPS' 1-0 loss to MYPA.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in Blackburn's 1-0 loss to Charlton.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Came off the bench and played 14 minutes in Atyrau's 2-1 win over Vostok.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 65 minutes, scoring a goal in Munster's 4-0 win over Dortmund II.
S.A.S. Thursday After Stats
Really no stats of big note from last night, other than this one that just frustrates me after the last two CCL games.
It's been 4,201 days (counting today) since KC won a competitive international game at home. The last win was a 2-0 win over Santos Laguna on April 24th, 2002.
It's been 4,201 days (counting today) since KC won a competitive international game at home. The last win was a 2-0 win over Santos Laguna on April 24th, 2002.
What We Want to Happen CCL Edition 10/24
Bringing out a Champions' League version of "What We Want to Happen." After last night's draw combined with the San Jose win, Sporting is locked into either the 6 or the 7 seed in the knock out round. The two remaining games can both have an effect on who KC plays.
Houston at Arabe Unido
What we want to happen - draw
A draw has Houston finish ahead of Unido and even with KC on points. KC though would finish as the six seed because of their better goal difference. An argument though can be made to finish below Houston and in the 7th seed because of CONCACAF's weird set up for the knockout round which sees the winner of the series between the 2nd and 7th seed hosting the second leg of the series against the 3rd vs 6th seed winner, no matter which team is the higher seed. An odd standing, but I my reason for picking this result will be apparent in the next result.
LA at Metepan
What we want to happen - LA win by no more than 2.
A result like this combined with a Houston draw would see KC matched up with the Galaxy in the knock out phase. The reason for this? It puts KC against another opponent that will be just coming out of preseason and won't necessarily be in the best form, instead of facing a Mexican league opponent who is in midseason form.
A draw or LA loss in their game could see KC play Tijuana, as could a Houston win/loss. Basically KC is limited to playing four teams depending on results, the Galaxy, Tijuana, Cruz Azul, or Toluca. So pick your poison, it's what KC gets for not winning a single group game at home.
Houston at Arabe Unido
What we want to happen - draw
A draw has Houston finish ahead of Unido and even with KC on points. KC though would finish as the six seed because of their better goal difference. An argument though can be made to finish below Houston and in the 7th seed because of CONCACAF's weird set up for the knockout round which sees the winner of the series between the 2nd and 7th seed hosting the second leg of the series against the 3rd vs 6th seed winner, no matter which team is the higher seed. An odd standing, but I my reason for picking this result will be apparent in the next result.
LA at Metepan
What we want to happen - LA win by no more than 2.
A result like this combined with a Houston draw would see KC matched up with the Galaxy in the knock out phase. The reason for this? It puts KC against another opponent that will be just coming out of preseason and won't necessarily be in the best form, instead of facing a Mexican league opponent who is in midseason form.
A draw or LA loss in their game could see KC play Tijuana, as could a Houston win/loss. Basically KC is limited to playing four teams depending on results, the Galaxy, Tijuana, Cruz Azul, or Toluca. So pick your poison, it's what KC gets for not winning a single group game at home.
Draw is Enough to See KC Through to CCL Knock Out Phase
In 1,000 years when future human culture is shown videos of soccer games of the early 21st century, tonight's game between Sporting KC and Olimpia will not be one of them. The game was ugly, with a number of fouls and questionable referee decisions. But the 0-0 draw was enough to see Kansas City through to the knock out rounds of the CONCACAF Champions League. With the way results have gone, Sporting will find themselves either the 6th or the 7th seed in the tournament when it continues in 2014. A disappointing position to finish in considering KC started out with six of six points on the road. KC took only two of the available six in their two home games. Maybe playing on the road second will give KC the game they need in the knock out round.
Against Olimpia tonight in KC though, KC dominated play against their Central American rivals. In the first half they have over 70% of the possession but couldn't find the net as Noel Valladares had a good half, making a number of good saves. The first inside the first few minutes as he had to push a shot from Jacob Peterson over the bar. Chance Myers had a good opportunity a short time later when the ball landed at his feet, but his shot was well blocked for the corner. Again in the 29th minute, Peterson forced a good save from Valladares. Off a cross from Seth Sinovic, Peterson put the header on frame, low, but Valladares got down low an knocked the ball wide for a corner. In the 36th KC thought they'd taken the lead through Teal Bunbury. Sinovic won the ball in Olimpia's end and knocked the ball over the top to Bunbury who one timed the ball into the net, but Bunbury was offside. Graham Zusi tested Valladares from distance later in the half but the Honduran international was able to knock the ball away for a corner.
The second half saw Kansas City continue to pressure, but at the same time Olimpia tried to come into the game more, knowing they needed a win to advance. KC though, thought they'd grabbed the lead in the 54th minute. A cross towards CJ Sapong at the back post was cut out by Olimpia right into the path of Zusi. Zusi one timed the effort past Valladares and into the net. But the referee blew his whistle although it wasn't clear if it was a foul, offside or what. If the Olimpia player knocked it into the path of Zusi it couldn't have been offside. Olimpia came at KC and Eric Kronberg was finally forced into a save punching a shot into the air. The rebound was bicycle kicked back across goal, but Sinovic headed it out of danger. KC had another golden opportunity later in the half when a ball was floated in to Bunbury unmarked in the box. Bunbury though headed the ball straight down and the ball bounced right into the hands of Valladares. Into stoppage time KC had one more really good opportunity. Substitute, Dom Dwyer won the ball off the Olimpia defender and went in 1v1 against Valladares. Dwyer tried to slot his shot to the far post, but Valladares got just enough on it to push it wide of the post. Seconds later the final whistle blew.
KC will now wait to see who they play in the knock out round, with the likes of Cruz Azul, LA Galaxy, and Tijuana as potential opponents.
Wizards Man of the Match - Matt Besler - Helped to shut down Olimpia's attacks throughout the night. Limited the Hondurans to just a single shot on goal throughout the night.
Honorable Mention - Seth Sinovic
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Sinovic 7, Besler 8, Collin 7, Myers 6, Rosell 7, Olum 6, Zusi 6, Sapong 5, Bunbury 5, Peterson 6. Subs Dwyer 5, Gardner NR.
Against Olimpia tonight in KC though, KC dominated play against their Central American rivals. In the first half they have over 70% of the possession but couldn't find the net as Noel Valladares had a good half, making a number of good saves. The first inside the first few minutes as he had to push a shot from Jacob Peterson over the bar. Chance Myers had a good opportunity a short time later when the ball landed at his feet, but his shot was well blocked for the corner. Again in the 29th minute, Peterson forced a good save from Valladares. Off a cross from Seth Sinovic, Peterson put the header on frame, low, but Valladares got down low an knocked the ball wide for a corner. In the 36th KC thought they'd taken the lead through Teal Bunbury. Sinovic won the ball in Olimpia's end and knocked the ball over the top to Bunbury who one timed the ball into the net, but Bunbury was offside. Graham Zusi tested Valladares from distance later in the half but the Honduran international was able to knock the ball away for a corner.
The second half saw Kansas City continue to pressure, but at the same time Olimpia tried to come into the game more, knowing they needed a win to advance. KC though, thought they'd grabbed the lead in the 54th minute. A cross towards CJ Sapong at the back post was cut out by Olimpia right into the path of Zusi. Zusi one timed the effort past Valladares and into the net. But the referee blew his whistle although it wasn't clear if it was a foul, offside or what. If the Olimpia player knocked it into the path of Zusi it couldn't have been offside. Olimpia came at KC and Eric Kronberg was finally forced into a save punching a shot into the air. The rebound was bicycle kicked back across goal, but Sinovic headed it out of danger. KC had another golden opportunity later in the half when a ball was floated in to Bunbury unmarked in the box. Bunbury though headed the ball straight down and the ball bounced right into the hands of Valladares. Into stoppage time KC had one more really good opportunity. Substitute, Dom Dwyer won the ball off the Olimpia defender and went in 1v1 against Valladares. Dwyer tried to slot his shot to the far post, but Valladares got just enough on it to push it wide of the post. Seconds later the final whistle blew.
KC will now wait to see who they play in the knock out round, with the likes of Cruz Azul, LA Galaxy, and Tijuana as potential opponents.
Wizards Man of the Match - Matt Besler - Helped to shut down Olimpia's attacks throughout the night. Limited the Hondurans to just a single shot on goal throughout the night.
Honorable Mention - Seth Sinovic
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Sinovic 7, Besler 8, Collin 7, Myers 6, Rosell 7, Olum 6, Zusi 6, Sapong 5, Bunbury 5, Peterson 6. Subs Dwyer 5, Gardner NR.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Needing a Result
Tomorrow night is Sporting KC's final group game in the CCL. A loss and Sporting KC will be sitting at home when the knock out phase begins next year. Sporting need a result against Honduran champions, Olimpia.
In the last group match day, Olimpia needed a 66th minute strike from Anthony Lozano to get them a 1-0 win at home against Real Esteli. Like the game in KC, Esteli put up a good fight and at times looked hard done to lose the game. In league play, Olimpia is tied for the top spot with seven wins, two draws, and four losses. So unlike KC's first match up against the Leones, Olimpia should be more in form now that their league season has really gotten going. Since the win over Esteli though, Olimpia has lost three of their last five, only winning one. The one win came on the road.
The worry for Sporting is the splitting of their focus right now. They have this game against Olimpia tomorrow but then on the weekend have a game in Philadelphia that they need to win to at least stay in the race for the Supporters' Shield. With split focus I'm sure there will be some squad rotation for this game, but I also expect a number of first team players to take the field for KC as well. The team has not hidden the fact that getting a result tomorrow and advancing is a priority. They'll push the game and try to catch Olimpia early on travel legs. An early strike that forces Olimpia to come out and play could open the game up a lot.
Number to Remember - 1 - The number of points KC needs to advance. While the will probably want three points to avoid potential match ups with Toluca and Cruz Azul.
Key Match Up - KC center backs vs Anthony Lozano - Lozano is in Honduras' national team pool and certainly a threat for Olimpia going forward. He scored the winner against Esteli and will likely be relied on to help Olimpia tomorrow.
PREDICTION - A "chalk" draw the rest of the way, where the favorites all win, would see KC likely finish in 5th place and face a match up with Tijuana if they win. A draw and they're likely to face one of the other two Mexican sides that look likely to advance in Cruz Azul and Toluca. But that requires getting some sort of result tomorrow. Olimpia's recent form has to give some confidence to KC as well, but the lack of knowledge still about the team still certainly causes questions. KC though should be able to get some kind of result tomorrow.
SKC - 3 (Saad, Bieler, Sapong)
OLI - 1 (Rojas)
In the last group match day, Olimpia needed a 66th minute strike from Anthony Lozano to get them a 1-0 win at home against Real Esteli. Like the game in KC, Esteli put up a good fight and at times looked hard done to lose the game. In league play, Olimpia is tied for the top spot with seven wins, two draws, and four losses. So unlike KC's first match up against the Leones, Olimpia should be more in form now that their league season has really gotten going. Since the win over Esteli though, Olimpia has lost three of their last five, only winning one. The one win came on the road.
The worry for Sporting is the splitting of their focus right now. They have this game against Olimpia tomorrow but then on the weekend have a game in Philadelphia that they need to win to at least stay in the race for the Supporters' Shield. With split focus I'm sure there will be some squad rotation for this game, but I also expect a number of first team players to take the field for KC as well. The team has not hidden the fact that getting a result tomorrow and advancing is a priority. They'll push the game and try to catch Olimpia early on travel legs. An early strike that forces Olimpia to come out and play could open the game up a lot.
Number to Remember - 1 - The number of points KC needs to advance. While the will probably want three points to avoid potential match ups with Toluca and Cruz Azul.
Key Match Up - KC center backs vs Anthony Lozano - Lozano is in Honduras' national team pool and certainly a threat for Olimpia going forward. He scored the winner against Esteli and will likely be relied on to help Olimpia tomorrow.
PREDICTION - A "chalk" draw the rest of the way, where the favorites all win, would see KC likely finish in 5th place and face a match up with Tijuana if they win. A draw and they're likely to face one of the other two Mexican sides that look likely to advance in Cruz Azul and Toluca. But that requires getting some sort of result tomorrow. Olimpia's recent form has to give some confidence to KC as well, but the lack of knowledge still about the team still certainly causes questions. KC though should be able to get some kind of result tomorrow.
SKC - 3 (Saad, Bieler, Sapong)
OLI - 1 (Rojas)
Monday, October 21, 2013
CCL Group Stage Closes Out this Week
Tomorrow the final group play matches of the CONCACAF Champions' League kick off. Three days of games, including Sporting KC's game against Olimpia on Wednesday will decide what teams advance to the knock out round. I figured before the games kick off tomorrow we'd take a look at the games and their affect on advancement.
Only the top finisher out of each group advances to the knockout round. To figure out the opponents in the knock out rounds, the teams are ranked by how they finished in their group. For example, if the group stage was done now, Sporting would finish in 5th in the group and earn a match up with LA next year. Sporting though can still finish anywhere from the 1st seed to the 8th depending on their result and how other results go. KC is likely to be in the middle to lower half though.
Of the eight games tomorrow, only one of them is meaningless, Wednesday's game where Victoria of Honduras hosts Luis Angel Firpo of El Salvador. Mexican club Tijuana has already played their four group games and clinched the group. The other seven matches, at the least will have an effect on seeding.
Let's start on Tuesday, October 22. The early game that day is in group four, where Club America hosts Alajuelense. Currently the Costa Rica's lead the group ahead of America thanks to their 1-0 win over them at home. But a win by America will see them go through ahead of the Costa Ricans. A draw and Alajuelense goes through. I'd expect America to pick up the result in this one.
The second game sees another match up between a Costa Rican and Mexican side. This time it's Costa Rican club, Herediano hosting Cruz Azul. Herediano needs to win by 3 goals to go through over the Mexican side. A tough ask against a team that's only conceded a single goal so far.
Wednesday, October 23 starts off with Sporting KC taking on Olimpia. Any sort of result for Sporting will see them through their group and into the knockout round. Olimpia has to get the win on the road to pass Sporting in the standings.
The other early kick off on Wednesday has Mexican side Toluca hosting the Guatemalans, Comunicaciones. Toluca is certainly in the drivers seat though. They've already secured maximum points from their first three games and will be favorites to pick up another three and end up as one of the top seeds in the knock out round.
Another MLS team kicks off later in the evening on Wednesday. San Jose hosts Guatemalan side, Heredia. The Earthquakes need to win the game to advance. Any other result and the Guatemalans go through.
The final game on Wednesday is the meaningless Victoria vs Luis Angel Firpo game.
The final group games take place on Thursday, October 24. The first game sees Houston travel to Panama to take on Arabe Unido. Houston needs some sort of result to guarantee their advancement to the knockout round. A loss on the road and they're done. With a must win game in league play (that still may not get them into the playoffs), the Dynamo could potentially sacrifice the CCL in hopes of making the playoffs.
The late game features another MLS team with their playoff seeding still in question. Unlike Houston though, the Galaxy have clinched advancement already. While the Galaxy are likely worried about seeding for next year, they're likely to be more focused on the MLS playoffs and their game on Sunday against the Sounders. Even then the Galaxy reserves may well be enough to take out Isidro Metapan on the road.
Realistically for Sporting KC I think if they advance, they'll be somewhere between the 3rd and 6th seed when the games are finished. Personally I'm really hoping that KC can avoid MLS killer, Herculez Gomez and Tijuana. I'm sure Gomez would love to stick it to Peter Vermes.
Only the top finisher out of each group advances to the knockout round. To figure out the opponents in the knock out rounds, the teams are ranked by how they finished in their group. For example, if the group stage was done now, Sporting would finish in 5th in the group and earn a match up with LA next year. Sporting though can still finish anywhere from the 1st seed to the 8th depending on their result and how other results go. KC is likely to be in the middle to lower half though.
Of the eight games tomorrow, only one of them is meaningless, Wednesday's game where Victoria of Honduras hosts Luis Angel Firpo of El Salvador. Mexican club Tijuana has already played their four group games and clinched the group. The other seven matches, at the least will have an effect on seeding.
Let's start on Tuesday, October 22. The early game that day is in group four, where Club America hosts Alajuelense. Currently the Costa Rica's lead the group ahead of America thanks to their 1-0 win over them at home. But a win by America will see them go through ahead of the Costa Ricans. A draw and Alajuelense goes through. I'd expect America to pick up the result in this one.
The second game sees another match up between a Costa Rican and Mexican side. This time it's Costa Rican club, Herediano hosting Cruz Azul. Herediano needs to win by 3 goals to go through over the Mexican side. A tough ask against a team that's only conceded a single goal so far.
Wednesday, October 23 starts off with Sporting KC taking on Olimpia. Any sort of result for Sporting will see them through their group and into the knockout round. Olimpia has to get the win on the road to pass Sporting in the standings.
The other early kick off on Wednesday has Mexican side Toluca hosting the Guatemalans, Comunicaciones. Toluca is certainly in the drivers seat though. They've already secured maximum points from their first three games and will be favorites to pick up another three and end up as one of the top seeds in the knock out round.
Another MLS team kicks off later in the evening on Wednesday. San Jose hosts Guatemalan side, Heredia. The Earthquakes need to win the game to advance. Any other result and the Guatemalans go through.
The final game on Wednesday is the meaningless Victoria vs Luis Angel Firpo game.
The final group games take place on Thursday, October 24. The first game sees Houston travel to Panama to take on Arabe Unido. Houston needs some sort of result to guarantee their advancement to the knockout round. A loss on the road and they're done. With a must win game in league play (that still may not get them into the playoffs), the Dynamo could potentially sacrifice the CCL in hopes of making the playoffs.
The late game features another MLS team with their playoff seeding still in question. Unlike Houston though, the Galaxy have clinched advancement already. While the Galaxy are likely worried about seeding for next year, they're likely to be more focused on the MLS playoffs and their game on Sunday against the Sounders. Even then the Galaxy reserves may well be enough to take out Isidro Metapan on the road.
Realistically for Sporting KC I think if they advance, they'll be somewhere between the 3rd and 6th seed when the games are finished. Personally I'm really hoping that KC can avoid MLS killer, Herculez Gomez and Tijuana. I'm sure Gomez would love to stick it to Peter Vermes.
Sunday, October 20, 2013
What We Want to Happen 10/20
Yesterday couldn't have gone much better for Sporting KC when it comes to the results. KC got the really big one at the end of the night when Portland and Salt Lake drew 0-0. That means there's only one team left in the league that can top KC in terms of maximum points.
New York at Houston
What we want to happen - Houston win/draw
Did you get a little bile in your throat KC fans? Yes we are actually rooting for Houston today. Any result that takes points off of New York is good for KC because it means New York's maximum points can't top KC's. If KC fans really don't want to root for Houston they can just root for a draw. But a Houston win will also eliminate KC's final opponent, Philadelphia. Of course with the Union eliminated it could go either way. The Union could come out with nothing to play for other than play spoiler. Or they could play a few people who haven't necessarily gotten a lot of time to let them play for their job. Either way we want New York to drop points.
San Jose at LA
What we want to happen - San Jose win
A win by the Earthquakes will mean that LA cannot finish above KC in the standings. That will be big if both teams were to make MLS Cup, because then it would be in Kansas City, not LA.
New York at Houston
What we want to happen - Houston win/draw
Did you get a little bile in your throat KC fans? Yes we are actually rooting for Houston today. Any result that takes points off of New York is good for KC because it means New York's maximum points can't top KC's. If KC fans really don't want to root for Houston they can just root for a draw. But a Houston win will also eliminate KC's final opponent, Philadelphia. Of course with the Union eliminated it could go either way. The Union could come out with nothing to play for other than play spoiler. Or they could play a few people who haven't necessarily gotten a lot of time to let them play for their job. Either way we want New York to drop points.
San Jose at LA
What we want to happen - San Jose win
A win by the Earthquakes will mean that LA cannot finish above KC in the standings. That will be big if both teams were to make MLS Cup, because then it would be in Kansas City, not LA.
Sporting Announce Award Winners
Last night at the club's Pitch Black event at Sporting Park, the club announced the award winners this year as voted on by fans and media. The bigger winner was Graham Zusi. The Sporting KC midfielder took home both the team's offensive player of the year award and the team's MVP award.
Matt Besler was named the defensive player of the year, beating out the rest of the traditional back line starters and Jimmy Nielsen to win the award. Newcomer of the year also went to a defender, as Ike Opara beat out Benny Feilhaber to win the award.
Feilhaber didn't go home empty handed though, he took home the goal of the year award for his strike against Colorado.
Sporting also handed out a number of awards that were not voted on. Claudio Bieler earned the team's Golden Boot for his 10 goals this year. Aurelien Collin took home the humanitarian of the year for his work with the Victory Project. David Leichty earned the team's Bob Gansler award for outstanding academy player.
Also Kansas Rush was named the Sporting Network club of the year. And Sporting St. Louis Rangers took home the academy affiliate club of the year.
Matt Besler was named the defensive player of the year, beating out the rest of the traditional back line starters and Jimmy Nielsen to win the award. Newcomer of the year also went to a defender, as Ike Opara beat out Benny Feilhaber to win the award.
Feilhaber didn't go home empty handed though, he took home the goal of the year award for his strike against Colorado.
Sporting also handed out a number of awards that were not voted on. Claudio Bieler earned the team's Golden Boot for his 10 goals this year. Aurelien Collin took home the humanitarian of the year for his work with the Victory Project. David Leichty earned the team's Bob Gansler award for outstanding academy player.
Also Kansas Rush was named the Sporting Network club of the year. And Sporting St. Louis Rangers took home the academy affiliate club of the year.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
S.A.S. Saturday After Stats
In the 15th minute, Jimmy Nielsen passed Tony Meola and moved into 12th place for the most league minutes played for KC. Nielsen finished the game with 11,407 minutes played.
In the 90th minute, Nielsen passed Diego Gutierrez and moved into 14th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 12,247 minutes played.
Nielsen made his 127th league start for KC, breaking his tie with Matt McKeon for 11th on that list.
Matt Besler made his 125th league appearance for KC, tying him with Meola for 13th place on that list.
Chance Myers made his 115th league appearance for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga for 19th on that list.
Myers also made his 131st appearance in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Burciaga, Uche Okafor and Roger Espinoza for 19th on that list.
Myers made his 106th start in all competitions, tying him with Roger Espinoza for 20th on that list.
In the 90th minute, Nielsen passed Diego Gutierrez and moved into 14th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 12,247 minutes played.
Nielsen made his 127th league start for KC, breaking his tie with Matt McKeon for 11th on that list.
Matt Besler made his 125th league appearance for KC, tying him with Meola for 13th place on that list.
Chance Myers made his 115th league appearance for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga for 19th on that list.
Myers also made his 131st appearance in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Burciaga, Uche Okafor and Roger Espinoza for 19th on that list.
Myers made his 106th start in all competitions, tying him with Roger Espinoza for 20th on that list.
Sporting Clinch Top Two Spot
It wasn't the prettiest game of the season from Sporting KC, but they took care of business and clinched a top 2 spot in the Eastern Conference last night with a 1-0 win over DC. KC also, at least for the moment jumped into the lead in the Supporters' Shield race, hoping over Portland and New York.
The lone goal in the game came extremely early. In just the 7th minute, DC appeared to be controlling the ball in their end of the field. But KC's high pressure worked to perfection. On a pass back to center back Perry Kitchen, Peterson Joseph chased the ball down and forced Kitchen to play a back pass to goalkeeper Bill Hamid. Dom Dwyer though had anticipated the pass, intercpting it and putting it under Hamid and into the net to make it 1-0. KC continued the early pressure and caused confusion in DC's box, but their efforts did not end up on net and Hamid was able to collect loose balls in the box. Still in just the 11th minute, DC had a decent opportunity after a cross into the box was only partially cleared by Ike Opara. The effort though was skied over the net by Chris Pontius. In the 15th Ike Opara was able to get his head on a Benny Feilhaber corner, but it was right at Hamid. Hamid's save led to DC's best opportunity of the game. Jared Jeffrey got played in behind KC's defense with a great through ball. Jeffrey though seemed to freeze when 1v1 with Jimmy Nielsen and when Jeffrey tried to shot it, he shot right into Neilsen's stomach and he knocked the ball away. After the first 15 minutes or so the game really started to slow down and chances for both sides were limited.
The second half was limited in action as well. There didn't seem to be a lot of interest from either side to really push the game. KC seemed content to sit on the one goal and DC seemed resigned to their fate. The chances were really limited in the second half, even though DC held possession for the majority of the second half, they really didn't threaten Nielsen's net too much.
Wizards Man of the Match - Matt Besler - Sporting KC held DC to just one shot on goal the entire game, the save by Nielsen on Jeffrey. Sporting's defense limited a very poor DC team quite well. They were limited really to chances mainly from long distance.
Honorable Mention - Ike Opara
Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Myers 7, Besler 8, Opara 8, Sinovic 7, Rosell 7, Joseph 6, Feilhaber 5, Sapong 5, Dwyer 6, Saad 5. Subs Zusi 5, Olum 6, Bieler 5.
The lone goal in the game came extremely early. In just the 7th minute, DC appeared to be controlling the ball in their end of the field. But KC's high pressure worked to perfection. On a pass back to center back Perry Kitchen, Peterson Joseph chased the ball down and forced Kitchen to play a back pass to goalkeeper Bill Hamid. Dom Dwyer though had anticipated the pass, intercpting it and putting it under Hamid and into the net to make it 1-0. KC continued the early pressure and caused confusion in DC's box, but their efforts did not end up on net and Hamid was able to collect loose balls in the box. Still in just the 11th minute, DC had a decent opportunity after a cross into the box was only partially cleared by Ike Opara. The effort though was skied over the net by Chris Pontius. In the 15th Ike Opara was able to get his head on a Benny Feilhaber corner, but it was right at Hamid. Hamid's save led to DC's best opportunity of the game. Jared Jeffrey got played in behind KC's defense with a great through ball. Jeffrey though seemed to freeze when 1v1 with Jimmy Nielsen and when Jeffrey tried to shot it, he shot right into Neilsen's stomach and he knocked the ball away. After the first 15 minutes or so the game really started to slow down and chances for both sides were limited.
The second half was limited in action as well. There didn't seem to be a lot of interest from either side to really push the game. KC seemed content to sit on the one goal and DC seemed resigned to their fate. The chances were really limited in the second half, even though DC held possession for the majority of the second half, they really didn't threaten Nielsen's net too much.
Wizards Man of the Match - Matt Besler - Sporting KC held DC to just one shot on goal the entire game, the save by Nielsen on Jeffrey. Sporting's defense limited a very poor DC team quite well. They were limited really to chances mainly from long distance.
Honorable Mention - Ike Opara
Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Myers 7, Besler 8, Opara 8, Sinovic 7, Rosell 7, Joseph 6, Feilhaber 5, Sapong 5, Dwyer 6, Saad 5. Subs Zusi 5, Olum 6, Bieler 5.
What We Want to Happen 10/19
Every MLS game today has playoff implications for at least one of the teams. It's a weekend that could turn crazy all around the league. Not all the games have a direct effect on KC, but they're ones to watch for.
Philadelphia at Montreal
What we want to happen - Montreal win
Really this result doesn't mean a whole lot to KC, unless you really want to avoid one team over the other potentially in the playoffs. I say root for a Montreal win cause a win, combined with other results would see Philadelphia eliminated this weekend from playoff contention. The Union are already behind because they have one less win than Montreal and Chicago who they are tied on points with. A loss to Montreal combined with wins by Chicago and Houston would make next week's game against KC meaningless for the Union and leave a possibility of a weaker lineup as the Union would see if some guys are worth keeping.
Seattle at Dallas
What we want to happen - Dallas win or draw
A win by Dallas or a draw would make it so Seattle cannot catch KC in the standings. Again it's not just the Supporters' Shield, but also potential MLS Cup hosting that you want to look at.
Vancouver at Colorado
What we want to happen - Does not matter
This game doesn't matter to KC in the standings. Neither Colorado or Vancouver can catch KC in the standings. The only way it would matter is a potential MLS Cup match up of who you would rather
face. If we're looking that way I'd probably rather not have to deal with Camilo, but I don't expect either side to make it that far.
Columbus at New England
What we want to happen - New England win
I only go this route because I personally like KC's chances in a potential playoff match up with the Revolution over other teams in the East. The Revolution need a win and help to get in, but they can only control their part.
Toronto at Chicago
What we want to happen - Chicago win
For the Union to be eliminated, Chicago needs to get a win to go three points clear of the Union and two wins clear (the first tie breaker). So Chicago getting all three points is needed.
Salt Lake at Portland
What we want to happen - draw
A draw is the perfect result in this game for KC. It'd make Salt Lake and Portland's maximum points for the season lower than KC's potential max. That'd mean a win against the Union would have KC finish ahead of both in the Supporters' Shield standings. With both teams ending against Chivas USA, this is probably the best chance for both to drop points.
Philadelphia at Montreal
What we want to happen - Montreal win
Really this result doesn't mean a whole lot to KC, unless you really want to avoid one team over the other potentially in the playoffs. I say root for a Montreal win cause a win, combined with other results would see Philadelphia eliminated this weekend from playoff contention. The Union are already behind because they have one less win than Montreal and Chicago who they are tied on points with. A loss to Montreal combined with wins by Chicago and Houston would make next week's game against KC meaningless for the Union and leave a possibility of a weaker lineup as the Union would see if some guys are worth keeping.
Seattle at Dallas
What we want to happen - Dallas win or draw
A win by Dallas or a draw would make it so Seattle cannot catch KC in the standings. Again it's not just the Supporters' Shield, but also potential MLS Cup hosting that you want to look at.
Vancouver at Colorado
What we want to happen - Does not matter
This game doesn't matter to KC in the standings. Neither Colorado or Vancouver can catch KC in the standings. The only way it would matter is a potential MLS Cup match up of who you would rather
face. If we're looking that way I'd probably rather not have to deal with Camilo, but I don't expect either side to make it that far.
Columbus at New England
What we want to happen - New England win
I only go this route because I personally like KC's chances in a potential playoff match up with the Revolution over other teams in the East. The Revolution need a win and help to get in, but they can only control their part.
Toronto at Chicago
What we want to happen - Chicago win
For the Union to be eliminated, Chicago needs to get a win to go three points clear of the Union and two wins clear (the first tie breaker). So Chicago getting all three points is needed.
Salt Lake at Portland
What we want to happen - draw
A draw is the perfect result in this game for KC. It'd make Salt Lake and Portland's maximum points for the season lower than KC's potential max. That'd mean a win against the Union would have KC finish ahead of both in the Supporters' Shield standings. With both teams ending against Chivas USA, this is probably the best chance for both to drop points.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Playoffs Clinched, Time for the Next Step
Sporting KC clinched a playoff spot last weekend without even taking the field. Tomorrow night at Sporting Park, they can clinch a top three spot with a draw and a top two spot with a win. KC welcomes the "Wooden Spoon" winner (worst record in the league), DC United tomorrow night. While United won this year's US Open Cup they've been struggling in league play.
United is on pace to set a number of league records this year. If they don't get a win in KC they'll tie a league record for fewest wins on the road (0) and they'll be guaranteed to at best tie a league record for fewest wins (4). If they're shutout, they'll stay on pace to tie their old record for fewest goals in a season (21). As the records above are showing, it's not been a good season for DC. Their leading scorers in league play both have three goals. KC has eight players that currently have at least three goals. Two of those players that have three are defenders.
Sporting KC cannot be complacent though at home. In their past two home games, both against lesser competition KC has picked up a draw (vs Real Esteli) and a loss (vs Philadelphia). A team like DC is going to be dangerous for KC cause they'll come in with nothing to play for. Sporting will play without Aurelien Collin tomorrow. Collin is suspended again tomorrow due to yellow card accumulation. Peter Vermes though had worked out a deal with Jurgen Klinsmann that allowed Matt Besler to return to KC after the qualifier in Kansas City. So tomorrow Sporting will have Besler and Ike Opara partner in the center of defense. Graham Zusi has also returned, but it's not known if he will start or not. Another question is whether Claudio Bieler will return back to the starting lineup after making way for Dom Dwyer the past few weeks.
Number to Remember - 1 - The number of points KC needs to clinch a top 3 spot in the East. It's also the number of goals that Bieler has scored since mid-July. That one goal came from the penalty spot. Heading into the playoffs, Sporting needs Bieler to find form and start scoring again.
Key Match Up - KC forwards vs DC Defense - Someone on the front line of Sporting KC needs to start finding form. While Bieler is certainly a big key to hit form. At this point KC needs one of their forwards to starting finding the net regularly. CJ Sapong had scored three goals in two games, but has been kept off the board the last three. Bieler and Soony Saad haven't scored since Columbus, and Dwyer has the one league goal. KC needs to start finding the net.
PREDICTION -Now is the time in the season where you have to get everything lined up for the playoffs. You limit your lineup shuffling and you put your best team on the field. Facing a team at the bottom of the table at home this a game that Sporting KC absolutely must win. And really there's no reason that KC shouldn't win this one going away. Last time KC played DC at home it took a late Bieler goal to win 1-0. So it's certainly not a guarantee, but a team in KC's position should be able to win this without a huge problem.
SKC - 2 (Saad, Dwyer)
DC - 0
United is on pace to set a number of league records this year. If they don't get a win in KC they'll tie a league record for fewest wins on the road (0) and they'll be guaranteed to at best tie a league record for fewest wins (4). If they're shutout, they'll stay on pace to tie their old record for fewest goals in a season (21). As the records above are showing, it's not been a good season for DC. Their leading scorers in league play both have three goals. KC has eight players that currently have at least three goals. Two of those players that have three are defenders.
Sporting KC cannot be complacent though at home. In their past two home games, both against lesser competition KC has picked up a draw (vs Real Esteli) and a loss (vs Philadelphia). A team like DC is going to be dangerous for KC cause they'll come in with nothing to play for. Sporting will play without Aurelien Collin tomorrow. Collin is suspended again tomorrow due to yellow card accumulation. Peter Vermes though had worked out a deal with Jurgen Klinsmann that allowed Matt Besler to return to KC after the qualifier in Kansas City. So tomorrow Sporting will have Besler and Ike Opara partner in the center of defense. Graham Zusi has also returned, but it's not known if he will start or not. Another question is whether Claudio Bieler will return back to the starting lineup after making way for Dom Dwyer the past few weeks.
Nielsen
Myers - Opara - Besler - Sinovic
Rosell - Joseph
Feilhaber
Saad - Dwyer - Sapong
Number to Remember - 1 - The number of points KC needs to clinch a top 3 spot in the East. It's also the number of goals that Bieler has scored since mid-July. That one goal came from the penalty spot. Heading into the playoffs, Sporting needs Bieler to find form and start scoring again.
Key Match Up - KC forwards vs DC Defense - Someone on the front line of Sporting KC needs to start finding form. While Bieler is certainly a big key to hit form. At this point KC needs one of their forwards to starting finding the net regularly. CJ Sapong had scored three goals in two games, but has been kept off the board the last three. Bieler and Soony Saad haven't scored since Columbus, and Dwyer has the one league goal. KC needs to start finding the net.
PREDICTION -Now is the time in the season where you have to get everything lined up for the playoffs. You limit your lineup shuffling and you put your best team on the field. Facing a team at the bottom of the table at home this a game that Sporting KC absolutely must win. And really there's no reason that KC shouldn't win this one going away. Last time KC played DC at home it took a late Bieler goal to win 1-0. So it's certainly not a guarantee, but a team in KC's position should be able to win this without a huge problem.
SKC - 2 (Saad, Dwyer)
DC - 0
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Hall of Fame Talk Back
US Soccer still doesn't not have a physical location for their hall of fame since closing their location Oneonta, New York. Sporting KC and Robb Heineman had always talked about the idea of bringing the hall of fame to Kansas City. Originally it was brought up as being part of the stadium the team was building. That has not happened and the idea of the hall of fame being here kind of went on the back burner.
Then earlier this year, Sporting announced that they were looking at the idea of building a national training and player development center in Kansas City. The hall of fame talk came back up regarding the Kansas City area. But comments at the time were made that the hall of fame would have to make financial sense to the team and US Soccer to put it there. Reading between the lines most people put the hall of fame idea back on hold.
Then today on Planet Soccer, Grant Wahl posted an interesting comment regarding a potential hall of fame in KC.
"Last week we talked about the lack of a home building for the National Soccer Hall of Fame. Well, I’ve learned Sporting Kansas City will include a new Hall of Fame in its proposal next month as part of a $40 million U.S. Soccer training facility that has already been announced as a plan for the area. U.S. Soccer says a new Hall of Fame would require a $10 million startup and a $2 million annual operating budget. We’ll see if it can get done in Kansas City."
So Sporting KC is getting ready to submit its proposal next month for the training facility in KC. The facility and it's $40 million price tag, is actually cheaper than the original $50 million Sporting stated. But that extra $10 million would go to the start up of the hall of fame. A $2 million annual operating budget wouldn't be easy, but with the hall of fame in a more accessible location you're going to probably get more people, and with it tied to an MLS team, you can hope for traveling MLS fans to visit the hall as well when coming to watch their team play KC.
I've said for the longest time that I'd love the hall of fame to be here in KC. Now I just need to work on my resume so I can apply for a position if it gets built.
Then earlier this year, Sporting announced that they were looking at the idea of building a national training and player development center in Kansas City. The hall of fame talk came back up regarding the Kansas City area. But comments at the time were made that the hall of fame would have to make financial sense to the team and US Soccer to put it there. Reading between the lines most people put the hall of fame idea back on hold.
Then today on Planet Soccer, Grant Wahl posted an interesting comment regarding a potential hall of fame in KC.
"Last week we talked about the lack of a home building for the National Soccer Hall of Fame. Well, I’ve learned Sporting Kansas City will include a new Hall of Fame in its proposal next month as part of a $40 million U.S. Soccer training facility that has already been announced as a plan for the area. U.S. Soccer says a new Hall of Fame would require a $10 million startup and a $2 million annual operating budget. We’ll see if it can get done in Kansas City."
So Sporting KC is getting ready to submit its proposal next month for the training facility in KC. The facility and it's $40 million price tag, is actually cheaper than the original $50 million Sporting stated. But that extra $10 million would go to the start up of the hall of fame. A $2 million annual operating budget wouldn't be easy, but with the hall of fame in a more accessible location you're going to probably get more people, and with it tied to an MLS team, you can hope for traveling MLS fans to visit the hall as well when coming to watch their team play KC.
I've said for the longest time that I'd love the hall of fame to be here in KC. Now I just need to work on my resume so I can apply for a position if it gets built.
Movsisyan Shines for Armenia - Former SKC Wizards Update
Yura Movsisyan is currently one of the main strikers for Spartak Moscow in Russia. If he keeps playing the way he has though, he'll be moving up to a "big four" league sooner or later. In World Cup qualifiers this week, Movsisyan scored twice for Armenia to keep their slim World Cup qualifying hopes alive until the very last day. Scoring against Bulgaria and Italy Movsisyan has come a long way since his time with KC. Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Doug DeMartin
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Mauro Fuzetti
Willy Guadarrama
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Jonathan Leathers
Scott Lorenz
Amir Lowery
Akeem Priestly
Scott Sealy
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
MLS
Davy Arnaud - Montreal - Started and played 90 minutes in Montreal's 1-0 loss to New England.
Bobby Convey - Toronto - No game this week.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - No game this week.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-0 win over Seattle.
Kevin Hartman - New York - No game this week.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-0 win over Seattle.
Eddie Johnson - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 1-0 loss to Portland.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - No game this week.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 1-0 win over Seattle.
Khari Stephenson - Salt Lake - No game this week.
Michael Thomas - Toronto - No game this week.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - No game this week.
Konrad Warzycha - Columbus - No game this week.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Sarted and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 2-1 loss to Tampa.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 3-1 loss to Atlanta.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason
Boris Pardo - Missouri - Offseason
Craig Rocastle - Missouri - Offseason
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Belgium - No game this week.
Stephane Auvray - DPMM FC - Brunei (Singapore League) - No game this week.
Omar Bravo - Atlas - Mexico - No game this week.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Tied Irapuato 1-1.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in Bengaluru's 2-1 win over Mohammedan.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Did not play in UAI's 2-0 win over Comunicaciones.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - No game this week.
Pablo Escobar - Patriotas Boyaca - Colombia - Did not dress in Boyaca's 1-0 win over Atletico Nacional.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Honduras' 1-0 win over Costa Rica. Started and played 89 minutes in Honduras' 2-2 draw with Jamaica.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - No game this week.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - Did not dress in Atletico's 2-1 loss to America RN.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game this week.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - No game this week.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - No game this week.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - No game this week.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game this week.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Armenia's 2-1 win over Bulgaria. Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Armenia's 2-2 draw with Italy.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No game this week.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - No game this week.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - No game this week.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - No game this week.
Ivan Trujillo - Llaneros - Colombia - Did not dress in Llaneros' 4-3 win over Universitario Popayan.
Active without a club or unknown
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Doug DeMartin
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Mauro Fuzetti
Willy Guadarrama
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Jonathan Leathers
Scott Lorenz
Amir Lowery
Akeem Priestly
Scott Sealy
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
MLS
Davy Arnaud - Montreal - Started and played 90 minutes in Montreal's 1-0 loss to New England.
Bobby Convey - Toronto - No game this week.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - No game this week.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-0 win over Seattle.
Kevin Hartman - New York - No game this week.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-0 win over Seattle.
Eddie Johnson - Seattle - Did not dress in Seattle's 1-0 loss to Portland.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - No game this week.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 1-0 win over Seattle.
Khari Stephenson - Salt Lake - No game this week.
Michael Thomas - Toronto - No game this week.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - No game this week.
Konrad Warzycha - Columbus - No game this week.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Sarted and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 2-1 loss to Tampa.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 3-1 loss to Atlanta.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason
Boris Pardo - Missouri - Offseason
Craig Rocastle - Missouri - Offseason
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Belgium - No game this week.
Stephane Auvray - DPMM FC - Brunei (Singapore League) - No game this week.
Omar Bravo - Atlas - Mexico - No game this week.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Tied Irapuato 1-1.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in Bengaluru's 2-1 win over Mohammedan.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Did not play in UAI's 2-0 win over Comunicaciones.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - No game this week.
Pablo Escobar - Patriotas Boyaca - Colombia - Did not dress in Boyaca's 1-0 win over Atletico Nacional.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Honduras' 1-0 win over Costa Rica. Started and played 89 minutes in Honduras' 2-2 draw with Jamaica.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - No game this week.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - Did not dress in Atletico's 2-1 loss to America RN.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game this week.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - No game this week.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - No game this week.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - No game this week.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game this week.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Armenia's 2-1 win over Bulgaria. Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Armenia's 2-2 draw with Italy.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No game this week.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - No game this week.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - No game this week.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - No game this week.
Ivan Trujillo - Llaneros - Colombia - Did not dress in Llaneros' 4-3 win over Universitario Popayan.
What We Want to Happen Today 10/16
Only one game today, but it does have ramifications on Sporting and their playoff standings.
Montreal at LA.
What we want to happen - draw
Montreal trails KC by six points and this is their game in hand. A win would put Montreal within three points of KC. On the other side of things a win for LA would put them only one point behind KC. When it comes to KC and potentially hosting MLS Cup, even if they don't win the Supporters' Shield, KC hosts if they finished higher in the standings. So not having LA close the gap too much at the same time Montreal doesn't close the gap is a good thing. A draw would also still mean that KC can clinch a top three spot in the East with a win on Friday.
Montreal at LA.
What we want to happen - draw
Montreal trails KC by six points and this is their game in hand. A win would put Montreal within three points of KC. On the other side of things a win for LA would put them only one point behind KC. When it comes to KC and potentially hosting MLS Cup, even if they don't win the Supporters' Shield, KC hosts if they finished higher in the standings. So not having LA close the gap too much at the same time Montreal doesn't close the gap is a good thing. A draw would also still mean that KC can clinch a top three spot in the East with a win on Friday.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Zusi the Hero of Mexico
Four days after putting in a man of the match performance for the United States in their 2-0 win over Jamaica that clinched the top of the Hex for the USA, Graham Zusi was again the man of the match. This time for a country he doesn't even represent. With the US trailing Panama 2-1 and Mexico trailing Costa Rica 2-1, Mexico was actually on it's way out of the World Cup for the first time since 1990 (and first time without it due to suspension since 1982). Then in the second minute of stoppage time, Brad Davis received the ball out wide and floated a cross into the middle of the box. Zusi made a nice run and headed the ball home to tie the game and give Mexico life. Shortly after Zusi scored, Aron Johannsson scored his first goal for the US to seal the game at 3-2.
The result is funny cause throughout the night you saw US fans openly rooting for Panama in the game, hoping they'd win and knock out Mexico. You saw even more, like myself, who were conflicted we don't want the US to lose, but to see your biggest rival embarrassed by not qualifying for the World Cup is something that you couldn't help but laugh about at their expense. You also saw Mexican fans openly rooting for the US, especially after Mexico went down a second time to Costa Rica. All in all, a crazy night in CONCACAF and a night that proves the excitement of playing all the final games at the same time.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
What We Want to Happen Today 10/13
Sporting KC got two of the three results they wanted yesterday with New England beating Montreal and DC getting a draw against Philadelphia. Today KC has another game that a result would help KC.
Seattle at Portland
What we want to happen - draw
When it comes to the Supporters' Shield, we don't want either of these teams to get a win tonight. We'd rather have the two teams draw which will knock both teams' maximum points below KC's maximum points. That'd mean that if those two teams and KC all win out Seattle and Portland can't catch KC.
Seattle at Portland
What we want to happen - draw
When it comes to the Supporters' Shield, we don't want either of these teams to get a win tonight. We'd rather have the two teams draw which will knock both teams' maximum points below KC's maximum points. That'd mean that if those two teams and KC all win out Seattle and Portland can't catch KC.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Has Sporting Clinched a Playoff Birth?
Short answer, yes.
Long answer, on paper it's complicated. The MLS preview ahead of this weekend's games said that Sporting KC needed a Chicago loss or draw OR a Philadelphia loss to clinch a playoff birth. Well today Philadelphia and DC United drew 1-1 at RFK Stadium. After that game, Sporting KC put out a Tweet that they'd clinched a playoff birth.
So where's the disconnect between the MLS preview and Sporting's announcement? It comes in the tie breakers.
Currently there are three teams tied for 4th place in the East. Montreal (currently in 4th), Chicago (in 5th), and Philadelphia (in 6th) are all tied on 48 points currently, six behind Sporting KC. Montreal has three games left while Chicago and Philadelphia have two. So Chicago and Philadelphia can still finish level with KC, Montreal can finish ahead of them. So all three have a chance to tie KC. For that to happen, KC has to lose out, while Chicago and Philadelphia would have to win their final two games, and Montreal needs to win two of their three. Chicago hosts Toronto and plays New York on the road. Philadelphia travels to Montreal and hosts KC. Montreal travels to LA, hosts Philadelphia, and travel to Toronto.
So if results went that way, all four teams would be tied on 52 points. The first tie breaker for MLS is wins. If Chicago and Philadelphia win out while KC loses out and Montreal only loses to Philadelphia., Chicago, KC, and Montreal would all have 15 wins, while Philadelphia would have 14. That would knock Philadelphia out of any playoff discussion and qualify Chicago, Montreal, and KC for the playoffs. So I'm not seeing where MLS' comment about a draw not being enough came from.
Long answer, on paper it's complicated. The MLS preview ahead of this weekend's games said that Sporting KC needed a Chicago loss or draw OR a Philadelphia loss to clinch a playoff birth. Well today Philadelphia and DC United drew 1-1 at RFK Stadium. After that game, Sporting KC put out a Tweet that they'd clinched a playoff birth.
So where's the disconnect between the MLS preview and Sporting's announcement? It comes in the tie breakers.
Currently there are three teams tied for 4th place in the East. Montreal (currently in 4th), Chicago (in 5th), and Philadelphia (in 6th) are all tied on 48 points currently, six behind Sporting KC. Montreal has three games left while Chicago and Philadelphia have two. So Chicago and Philadelphia can still finish level with KC, Montreal can finish ahead of them. So all three have a chance to tie KC. For that to happen, KC has to lose out, while Chicago and Philadelphia would have to win their final two games, and Montreal needs to win two of their three. Chicago hosts Toronto and plays New York on the road. Philadelphia travels to Montreal and hosts KC. Montreal travels to LA, hosts Philadelphia, and travel to Toronto.
So if results went that way, all four teams would be tied on 52 points. The first tie breaker for MLS is wins. If Chicago and Philadelphia win out while KC loses out and Montreal only loses to Philadelphia., Chicago, KC, and Montreal would all have 15 wins, while Philadelphia would have 14. That would knock Philadelphia out of any playoff discussion and qualify Chicago, Montreal, and KC for the playoffs. So I'm not seeing where MLS' comment about a draw not being enough came from.
Besler to Remain in KC, Zusi to Panama
Jurgen Klinsmann today made some roster changes ahead of the USA's trip to Panama for the final World Cup qualifier. After the USA's 2-0 win over Jamaica along with Costa Rica's draw with Honduras, the Yanks clinched first place in the group. There's still an outside chance that the US can get a seed at the World Cup next year, but at this point it would take a number of events to take place.
In preparation for the game in Panama, Klinsmann has released four players and called up one replacement. Matt Besler, Landon Donovan, Jermaine Jones, and Tim Howard are all returning to their club teams after last night's result. Being called in is Sean Johnson from the Chicago Fire.
Besler's return will be a boost for Kansas City ahead of Friday's game against DC United. Sporting will need Besler in the lineup with Aurelien Collin again suspended for a game due to yellow card accumulation. Besler is likely to anchor the back line alongside Ike Opara, like he did in his last game for the club against Columbus.
Meanwhile, Sporting KC's other representative, and Friday's hero, Graham Zusi will remain with the US team. Neither move is a big surprise. Besler is desperately needed by KC for the game against DC, and not forcing him to travel to Panama and back for a game. With Omar Gonzalez withdrawing earlier in the week, the game isn't really an opportunity for Klinsmann to work on the relationship between those two so letting Besler return makes sense. Zusi staying also makes sense. With Landon Donovan "hurt" according to Klinsmann's quotes, and LA's request earlier in the week for him to return, Zusi looks set to get back into the starting lineup for the US team in Panama, the location where he scored his first goal for the national team.
In preparation for the game in Panama, Klinsmann has released four players and called up one replacement. Matt Besler, Landon Donovan, Jermaine Jones, and Tim Howard are all returning to their club teams after last night's result. Being called in is Sean Johnson from the Chicago Fire.
Besler's return will be a boost for Kansas City ahead of Friday's game against DC United. Sporting will need Besler in the lineup with Aurelien Collin again suspended for a game due to yellow card accumulation. Besler is likely to anchor the back line alongside Ike Opara, like he did in his last game for the club against Columbus.
Meanwhile, Sporting KC's other representative, and Friday's hero, Graham Zusi will remain with the US team. Neither move is a big surprise. Besler is desperately needed by KC for the game against DC, and not forcing him to travel to Panama and back for a game. With Omar Gonzalez withdrawing earlier in the week, the game isn't really an opportunity for Klinsmann to work on the relationship between those two so letting Besler return makes sense. Zusi staying also makes sense. With Landon Donovan "hurt" according to Klinsmann's quotes, and LA's request earlier in the week for him to return, Zusi looks set to get back into the starting lineup for the US team in Panama, the location where he scored his first goal for the national team.
What We Want to Happen Today 10/12
Again a little late (recovery from the US game, plus a 5K, and child's soccer game this morning have all delayed this write up). But here's a look at today's match ups and what KC fans want to happen.
New England at Montreal
What we want to happen - New England win
The Revolution cannot catch Kansas City in the East. The Impact sit six points back of KC, with two games in hand on Sporting. So the Revolution getting a result on the road would be huge for KC.
Philadelphia at DC
What we want happen - DC win
A DC win clinches Sporting a playoff spot. More than that it would push KC very close to a top 4 spot in the East (if Chicago lose/draw as well).
Chicago at Dallas
What we want to happen - Dallas win or draw
A Dallas win or draw combined with a DC win above and KC will clinch a top 4 spot in the East, guaranteeing a home game.
New England at Montreal
What we want to happen - New England win
The Revolution cannot catch Kansas City in the East. The Impact sit six points back of KC, with two games in hand on Sporting. So the Revolution getting a result on the road would be huge for KC.
Philadelphia at DC
What we want happen - DC win
A DC win clinches Sporting a playoff spot. More than that it would push KC very close to a top 4 spot in the East (if Chicago lose/draw as well).
Chicago at Dallas
What we want to happen - Dallas win or draw
A Dallas win or draw combined with a DC win above and KC will clinch a top 4 spot in the East, guaranteeing a home game.
Friday, October 11, 2013
US Hosting Jamaica Tonight
Sporting Park will once again host the US men's national team tonight in a World Cup qualifier. It's the third time in the three years the stadium's been open that the Yanks will play here. The US has a perfect record of 2-0 at Sporting Park, winning 1-0 over Guadeloupe in the 2011 Gold Cup and beating Guatemala 3-1 last year to confirm advancement to the Hex.
Combine the results at Sporting Park with the USA's results on the other side of the state line, and the USA is 4-0 in the KC metro area. The USA's first game in KC was actually in 1968, a 6-2 World Cup qualifying win over Bermuda. That game was hosted at the old Kansas City Municipal Stadium. The other game was the 2001 World Cup qualifier against Costa Rica that the US won 1-0 hosted at Arrowhead.
Tonight the USA host Jamaica in their final home qualifier ahead of the 2014 World Cup. The US already assured qualification in the last set of qualifiers. With very little chance of the US getting a seed at the World Cup, in theory there is not a lot to play for, for the US. But I don't expect the US to take this game easy, it's not been the mindset of Jurgen Klinsmann to sit back. I'd expect the US to come out and take the game to Jamaica and close out qualifying at home in style.
Combine the results at Sporting Park with the USA's results on the other side of the state line, and the USA is 4-0 in the KC metro area. The USA's first game in KC was actually in 1968, a 6-2 World Cup qualifying win over Bermuda. That game was hosted at the old Kansas City Municipal Stadium. The other game was the 2001 World Cup qualifier against Costa Rica that the US won 1-0 hosted at Arrowhead.
Tonight the USA host Jamaica in their final home qualifier ahead of the 2014 World Cup. The US already assured qualification in the last set of qualifiers. With very little chance of the US getting a seed at the World Cup, in theory there is not a lot to play for, for the US. But I don't expect the US to take this game easy, it's not been the mindset of Jurgen Klinsmann to sit back. I'd expect the US to come out and take the game to Jamaica and close out qualifying at home in style.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Kamara Continues Good Form - Former SKC Wizards Update
Kei Kamara has continued his good run of form since his move to England. The Sierra Leone international scored his third goal for Middlesbrough since he moved to the club in their 4-1 win over Yeovil Town. Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Doug DeMartin
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Mauro Fuzetti
Willy Guadarrama
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Jonathan Leathers
Scott Lorenz
Amir Lowery
Akeem Priestly
Scott Sealy
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
MLS
Davy Arnaud - Montreal - Started and played 82 minutes in Montreal's 1-0 loss to Houston.
Bobby Convey - Toronto - Started and played 67 minutes in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 90 minutes in RSL's 1-1 draw with Dallas.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 2-2 draw with Vancouver.
Kevin Hartman - New York - Did not dress in New York's 2-2 draw with New England.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 2-2 draw with Vancouver.
Eddie Johnson - Seattle - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Seattle's 5-1 loss to Seattle.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 2-2 draw with Vancouver.
Khari Stephenson - Salt Lake - Did not dress in RSL's 1-1 draw with Dallas.
Michael Thomas - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 1-0 loss to KC.
Konrad Warzycha - Columbus - Did not dress in COlumbus' 1-0 loss to KC.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 2-1 win over Tampa Bay.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 1-0 loss to New York.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason
Boris Pardo - Missouri - Offseason
Craig Rocastle - Missouri - Offseason
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Started and played 90 minutes in Haka's 3-1 win over Viikingit.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Belgium - Did not dress in Sporting's 2-1 win over Lokeren.
Stephane Auvray - DPMM FC - Brunei (Singapore League) - No game this week.
Omar Bravo - Atlas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Atlas' 2-1 loss to Cruz Azul.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Tied UAEM Potros 1-1.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 84 minutes in Bengaluru's 1-0 win over Prayag United.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Did not play in UAI's 2-0 loss to Tristan Suarez. Started and played 90 minutes in UAI's 3-0 win over Colegiales.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 3-2 win over San Juan Jabloteh.
Pablo Escobar - Patriotas Boyaca - Colombia - Started and played 90 minutes in Boyaca's 2-2 draw with Millonarios.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Dressed but did not play in Wigan's 3-1 win over Maribor. Dressed but did not play in Wigan's 2-1 win over Blackburn.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 26 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 win over Queretaro.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - Did not dress in either of Atletico's games.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 1-1 draw with Simurq.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Middlesbrough's 4-1 win over Yeovil Town.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Came off the bench and played 34 minutes in Slavia's 1-0 loss to Naftan.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 90 minutes in San Martin's 0-0 draw with Universitario. Started and played 90 minutes in San Martin's 1-0 loss to Cienciano.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 2-1 win over Schaffhausen.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 90 minutes in Spartak's 0-0 draw with Terek Grozny.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - Did not dress in Zilina's 0-0 draw with DAC.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in Blackburn's 2-1 loss to Wigan.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Dressed but did not play in Atyrau's 0-0 draw with Zhetysu.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 83 minutes in Munster's 4-0 win over Chemnitzer.
Ivan Trujillo - Llaneros - Colombia - Did not dress in Llaneros' 1-1 draw with Deportivo Pereira.
Active without a club or unknown
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Doug DeMartin
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Mauro Fuzetti
Willy Guadarrama
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Jonathan Leathers
Scott Lorenz
Amir Lowery
Akeem Priestly
Scott Sealy
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
MLS
Davy Arnaud - Montreal - Started and played 82 minutes in Montreal's 1-0 loss to Houston.
Bobby Convey - Toronto - Started and played 67 minutes in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 90 minutes in RSL's 1-1 draw with Dallas.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 2-2 draw with Vancouver.
Kevin Hartman - New York - Did not dress in New York's 2-2 draw with New England.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 2-2 draw with Vancouver.
Eddie Johnson - Seattle - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Seattle's 5-1 loss to Seattle.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 2-2 draw with Vancouver.
Khari Stephenson - Salt Lake - Did not dress in RSL's 1-1 draw with Dallas.
Michael Thomas - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 1-0 loss to KC.
Konrad Warzycha - Columbus - Did not dress in COlumbus' 1-0 loss to KC.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 2-1 win over Tampa Bay.
Kevin Friedland - Minnesota - Did not dress in Minnesota's 1-0 loss to New York.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason
Boris Pardo - Missouri - Offseason
Craig Rocastle - Missouri - Offseason
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Started and played 90 minutes in Haka's 3-1 win over Viikingit.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Belgium - Did not dress in Sporting's 2-1 win over Lokeren.
Stephane Auvray - DPMM FC - Brunei (Singapore League) - No game this week.
Omar Bravo - Atlas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Atlas' 2-1 loss to Cruz Azul.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Tied UAEM Potros 1-1.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 84 minutes in Bengaluru's 1-0 win over Prayag United.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Did not play in UAI's 2-0 loss to Tristan Suarez. Started and played 90 minutes in UAI's 3-0 win over Colegiales.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 3-2 win over San Juan Jabloteh.
Pablo Escobar - Patriotas Boyaca - Colombia - Started and played 90 minutes in Boyaca's 2-2 draw with Millonarios.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Dressed but did not play in Wigan's 3-1 win over Maribor. Dressed but did not play in Wigan's 2-1 win over Blackburn.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 26 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 win over Queretaro.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - Did not dress in either of Atletico's games.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 1-1 draw with Simurq.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Middlesbrough's 4-1 win over Yeovil Town.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Came off the bench and played 34 minutes in Slavia's 1-0 loss to Naftan.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 90 minutes in San Martin's 0-0 draw with Universitario. Started and played 90 minutes in San Martin's 1-0 loss to Cienciano.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 2-1 win over Schaffhausen.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 90 minutes in Spartak's 0-0 draw with Terek Grozny.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - Did not dress in Zilina's 0-0 draw with DAC.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in Blackburn's 2-1 loss to Wigan.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Dressed but did not play in Atyrau's 0-0 draw with Zhetysu.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 83 minutes in Munster's 4-0 win over Chemnitzer.
Ivan Trujillo - Llaneros - Colombia - Did not dress in Llaneros' 1-1 draw with Deportivo Pereira.
S.A.S. Thursday After Stats
Seth Sinovic made his 100th start in MLS play in his career.
Aurelien Collin earned his 12th yellow of the season in league play, tied for the 4th most in a single season in league history.
In the 63rd minute, Chance Myers moved past Graham Zusi and into 20th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 9,729 minutes played.
Chance Myers made his 114th league appearance for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez for 20th place on that list.
It was also Myers' 130th appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga, Uche Okafor, and Roger Espinoza for 19th on that list.
Jimmy Nielsen made his 126th league appearance for KC, breaking his tie with Tony Meola for 12th all time on the list, and the most for a goalkeeper.
It was Nielsen's 126th start in league paly for KC, breaking his tie with Meola and tying him with Matt McKeon for 11th on that list.
Nielsen's shutout tonight was his 50th in all competitions in his MLS career.
Aurelien Collin earned his 12th yellow of the season in league play, tied for the 4th most in a single season in league history.
In the 63rd minute, Chance Myers moved past Graham Zusi and into 20th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 9,729 minutes played.
Chance Myers made his 114th league appearance for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez for 20th place on that list.
It was also Myers' 130th appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga, Uche Okafor, and Roger Espinoza for 19th on that list.
Jimmy Nielsen made his 126th league appearance for KC, breaking his tie with Tony Meola for 12th all time on the list, and the most for a goalkeeper.
It was Nielsen's 126th start in league paly for KC, breaking his tie with Meola and tying him with Matt McKeon for 11th on that list.
Nielsen's shutout tonight was his 50th in all competitions in his MLS career.
Wednesday, October 09, 2013
Sporting and Houston Play to Scoreless Draw
It wasn't pretty, and it wasn't what most fans wanting KC to take the Supporters' Shield wanted to see, but KC left Houston with a point. KC finishes the season going 1-0-1 in Houston, a place they've struggled in the past. The result hurts their standing in the Supporters' Shield, but Vancouver's game tonight against Seattle is helping KC out.
The game started out poorly and if not for some good early saves by Jimmy Nielsen KC would have been down early. Will Bruin had a good opportunity early on after cutting outside on KC's defense, but Nielsen made the kick save for a corner. Shortly after, Bruin was played in behind KC's defense and from an rough angle fired the ball on goal, but Nielsen got enough of a touch on the ball to have it roll wide. Off the ensuing corner, Nielsen was again called into action off a long range shot from Corey Ashe. Nielsen pushed the ball over the bar though. KC started to get a little more involved in the play. Off a long cross from Chance Myers, CJ Sapong headed the ball into the middle for Dom Dwyer. Dwyer took a touch and turned, but couldn't get enough over the ball to put it on goal. The Dynamo continued to have the better of play though. Again Bruin had a good opportunity after he was played in behind KC's defense by Ricardo Clark. Right as Bruin was about to shoot though, Ike Opara did a fantastic job recovering and making a nice tackle to get the ball away. At the end of the half, the Dynamo had their best chance. Off a foul at the top of the box by Opara, Brad Davis stepped up and curled the free kick on frame, but Aurelien Collin had stepped back onto the line for the free kick and headed it away to keep the game scoreless at the half.
The second half saw KC come out with more urgency and begin to get some of the play. They struggled to create chances in that time though. Their best tests of Tally Hall came from long throw ins that Hall really struggled to deal with. Hall tried to come off his line many times on the throws and didn't reach a few of them, setting up chances for KC, but they couldn't really capitalize on them. KC's best chance from this stretch of possession actually came on a counter. On a ball over the top, Dwyer raced 1v1 with Eric Brunner. Dwyer tried to cut inside but his touch got away from him and the chance was done. At the other end of the field, Nielsen was again called into action after Bruin again got played through behind the KC back line. But Nielsen came quickly off his line and blocked the shot. The rebound fell to Kofi Sarkodie who fired his effort wide. The two teams continued to trade possession, with both sides getting half chances but not challenging the other goalkeeper. Late on, KC got a half chance on the break through Teal Bunbury. Bunbury though didn't get enough space behind Houston's defense to get a good shot on goal. Instead his shot hit the side netting. In the end the two teams each settled for a point as the game ended 0-0.
Wizards Man of the Match - Jimmy Nielsen - Will Bruin said post game "Nielsen got them that point."
And it's hard to argue that, a number of big saves inside the first 10 minutes to keep the game scoreless and more as the game went on, Nielsen gets man of the match. Although it was a close decision with Ike Opara.
Honorable mention - Ike Opara
Player Ratings - Nielsen 8, Sinovic 5, Collin 6, Opara 7, Myers 5, Rosell 6, Olum 6, Joseph 5, Saad 4, Dwyer 4, Sapong 4. Subs Peterson 4, Bunbury 5.
The game started out poorly and if not for some good early saves by Jimmy Nielsen KC would have been down early. Will Bruin had a good opportunity early on after cutting outside on KC's defense, but Nielsen made the kick save for a corner. Shortly after, Bruin was played in behind KC's defense and from an rough angle fired the ball on goal, but Nielsen got enough of a touch on the ball to have it roll wide. Off the ensuing corner, Nielsen was again called into action off a long range shot from Corey Ashe. Nielsen pushed the ball over the bar though. KC started to get a little more involved in the play. Off a long cross from Chance Myers, CJ Sapong headed the ball into the middle for Dom Dwyer. Dwyer took a touch and turned, but couldn't get enough over the ball to put it on goal. The Dynamo continued to have the better of play though. Again Bruin had a good opportunity after he was played in behind KC's defense by Ricardo Clark. Right as Bruin was about to shoot though, Ike Opara did a fantastic job recovering and making a nice tackle to get the ball away. At the end of the half, the Dynamo had their best chance. Off a foul at the top of the box by Opara, Brad Davis stepped up and curled the free kick on frame, but Aurelien Collin had stepped back onto the line for the free kick and headed it away to keep the game scoreless at the half.
The second half saw KC come out with more urgency and begin to get some of the play. They struggled to create chances in that time though. Their best tests of Tally Hall came from long throw ins that Hall really struggled to deal with. Hall tried to come off his line many times on the throws and didn't reach a few of them, setting up chances for KC, but they couldn't really capitalize on them. KC's best chance from this stretch of possession actually came on a counter. On a ball over the top, Dwyer raced 1v1 with Eric Brunner. Dwyer tried to cut inside but his touch got away from him and the chance was done. At the other end of the field, Nielsen was again called into action after Bruin again got played through behind the KC back line. But Nielsen came quickly off his line and blocked the shot. The rebound fell to Kofi Sarkodie who fired his effort wide. The two teams continued to trade possession, with both sides getting half chances but not challenging the other goalkeeper. Late on, KC got a half chance on the break through Teal Bunbury. Bunbury though didn't get enough space behind Houston's defense to get a good shot on goal. Instead his shot hit the side netting. In the end the two teams each settled for a point as the game ended 0-0.
Wizards Man of the Match - Jimmy Nielsen - Will Bruin said post game "Nielsen got them that point."
And it's hard to argue that, a number of big saves inside the first 10 minutes to keep the game scoreless and more as the game went on, Nielsen gets man of the match. Although it was a close decision with Ike Opara.
Honorable mention - Ike Opara
Player Ratings - Nielsen 8, Sinovic 5, Collin 6, Opara 7, Myers 5, Rosell 6, Olum 6, Joseph 5, Saad 4, Dwyer 4, Sapong 4. Subs Peterson 4, Bunbury 5.
What We Want to Happen 10/9
KC is in control of it's own destiny in the East, but does need a little bit of help in the Supporters' Shield race to control their destiny. They can get that help tonight in Seattle.
Vancouver at Seattle
What we want to happen - Vancouver win
Vancouver is fighting for their playoff lives at this point, while Seattle is fighting for the Supporters' Shield. The Sounders are the only team between KC and controlling their own destiny so a Vancouver win would put it in KC's hands.
Colorado at San Jose
What we want to happen - San Jose win
This would keep Colorado from catching up to KC on points, with all the other teams in front of them, it's unlikely that Colorado would get into the Supporters' Shield race, but this would drop them back.
Vancouver at Seattle
What we want to happen - Vancouver win
Vancouver is fighting for their playoff lives at this point, while Seattle is fighting for the Supporters' Shield. The Sounders are the only team between KC and controlling their own destiny so a Vancouver win would put it in KC's hands.
Colorado at San Jose
What we want to happen - San Jose win
This would keep Colorado from catching up to KC on points, with all the other teams in front of them, it's unlikely that Colorado would get into the Supporters' Shield race, but this would drop them back.
Tuesday, October 08, 2013
Looking to Clinch a Playoff Berth
Tomorrow night in Houston, Sporting Kansas City have the chance to qualify for the playoffs with a win, the first step in a three step process to end the season. A win tomorrow and KC clinch a playoff berth, a win and some help this weekend, and KC clinch a top 3 spot. A win would also put KC in a very good position in the Supporters' Shield race. Right now, only Seattle's maximum points are higher than KC's.
But before KC fans can even think about that, they need to take care of business against the Houston Dynamo. The Dynamo come into the game having moved up into 3rd place in the East, four points behind KC after a 1-0 win over Montreal. The game tomorrow will be the second of three home games in a row for the Dynamo against the other three teams at the top of the East. The schedule makers at least let the Dynamo have these three games at home for this rough stretch. The Dynamo will be down two players for the game tomorrow as Oscar Boniek Garcia was called up by Honduras and Jermaine Taylor was called up by Jamaica. There'd been talk this morning that Brad Davis was on his way to KC to join the US team, but those rumors were apparently unfounded and Davis will be available for the Dynamo tomorrow.
Kansas City will also be missing two players for the game tomorrow with Matt Besler and Graham Zusi still in Kansas City with the US national team ahead of the qualifier against Jamaica. Besler's absence will be filled by Ike Opara while Benny Feilhaber will take up Zusi's spot in the midfield. KC hasn't look fantastic lately, but they were able to grind out the win in Columbus last weekend. Grinding out another result on the road in Houston would be a big statement for KC. They ended Houston's long home unbeaten run earlier this year, so Houston will have that chip on their shoulder, but getting another three points in Houston would definitely reestablish some championship credentials for KC. Sporting will welcome back Oriol Rosell this week after he sat out last week's game with yellow card suspension. One question this week is whether Claudio Bieler will be back in the 18 this week after not even traveling to Columbus for the game on the weekend. Bieler is listed as questionable on the injury report with a groin strain, so we'll see if he's back tomorrow.
Number to Remember - 2 - That's KC's magic number to clinch a playoff spot. While a win takes care of business, a draw or even a loss could also see KC clinch a spot this weekend if Chicago drops points.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin vs Will Bruin - Collin is once again a yellow card away from suspension if he picks up another yellow card. Going up against Bruin will be a tough match up for Collin. While Bruin hasn't had the year he had this year, he's still been a major threat for Houston.
PREDICTION - Houston comes into the game with an extra day of rest and didn't have to travel for either game, so they should technically be fresher. Both teams are going to be undermanned for the game though, and on the surface, KC's depth should be able to handle the absence of Besler and Zusi better than Houston handles the absence of Garcia and Taylor. But Houston has the chip on their shoulder and the knowledge that KC gave them their first loss at their stadium. And as a whole, Houston hasn't been a friendly place to KC. I'd like to see KC get the win here and keep the race for the Supporters' Shield alive, but I'm not sure it'll happen.
SKC - 1 (Saad)
HOU - 2 (Bruin, Barnes)
But before KC fans can even think about that, they need to take care of business against the Houston Dynamo. The Dynamo come into the game having moved up into 3rd place in the East, four points behind KC after a 1-0 win over Montreal. The game tomorrow will be the second of three home games in a row for the Dynamo against the other three teams at the top of the East. The schedule makers at least let the Dynamo have these three games at home for this rough stretch. The Dynamo will be down two players for the game tomorrow as Oscar Boniek Garcia was called up by Honduras and Jermaine Taylor was called up by Jamaica. There'd been talk this morning that Brad Davis was on his way to KC to join the US team, but those rumors were apparently unfounded and Davis will be available for the Dynamo tomorrow.
Kansas City will also be missing two players for the game tomorrow with Matt Besler and Graham Zusi still in Kansas City with the US national team ahead of the qualifier against Jamaica. Besler's absence will be filled by Ike Opara while Benny Feilhaber will take up Zusi's spot in the midfield. KC hasn't look fantastic lately, but they were able to grind out the win in Columbus last weekend. Grinding out another result on the road in Houston would be a big statement for KC. They ended Houston's long home unbeaten run earlier this year, so Houston will have that chip on their shoulder, but getting another three points in Houston would definitely reestablish some championship credentials for KC. Sporting will welcome back Oriol Rosell this week after he sat out last week's game with yellow card suspension. One question this week is whether Claudio Bieler will be back in the 18 this week after not even traveling to Columbus for the game on the weekend. Bieler is listed as questionable on the injury report with a groin strain, so we'll see if he's back tomorrow.
Nielsen
Myers - Collin - Opara - Sinovic
Rosell - Joseph
Feilhaber
Saad - Dwyer - Sapong
Number to Remember - 2 - That's KC's magic number to clinch a playoff spot. While a win takes care of business, a draw or even a loss could also see KC clinch a spot this weekend if Chicago drops points.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin vs Will Bruin - Collin is once again a yellow card away from suspension if he picks up another yellow card. Going up against Bruin will be a tough match up for Collin. While Bruin hasn't had the year he had this year, he's still been a major threat for Houston.
PREDICTION - Houston comes into the game with an extra day of rest and didn't have to travel for either game, so they should technically be fresher. Both teams are going to be undermanned for the game though, and on the surface, KC's depth should be able to handle the absence of Besler and Zusi better than Houston handles the absence of Garcia and Taylor. But Houston has the chip on their shoulder and the knowledge that KC gave them their first loss at their stadium. And as a whole, Houston hasn't been a friendly place to KC. I'd like to see KC get the win here and keep the race for the Supporters' Shield alive, but I'm not sure it'll happen.
SKC - 1 (Saad)
HOU - 2 (Bruin, Barnes)
Sunday, October 06, 2013
Besler and Zusi called up by the USA
The USA named a 20 man roster ahead of their final World Cup qualifiers against Jamaica and Panama. There are probably another couple players to get to 24, but those players are likely remaining with their club team and could be called up after the Jamaica game.
Sporting KC players Matt Besler and Graham Zusi were, as expected, both called up for the games. Besler and Zusi will get the chance to represent their country in front of their home fans, with Friday's game against Jamaica being hosted at Sporting Park.
The two though will miss Wednesday's league game for Kansas City down in Houston against the Dynamo. That's certainly a blow for KC, but Ike Opara and Benny Feilhaber are certainly strong candidates to fill in well for the two, as they have multiple times already this season when Besler and Zusi have been called up.
The games in Kansas City and Panama will close out World Cup qualifying, which the US has already clinched a spot in. Jamaica is still technically alive but will take a miracle at this point to qualify. Panama could qualify, but need to probably win both of their games as they sit tied with Mexico on 8 points for 4th in the 6 team group.
Sporting KC players Matt Besler and Graham Zusi were, as expected, both called up for the games. Besler and Zusi will get the chance to represent their country in front of their home fans, with Friday's game against Jamaica being hosted at Sporting Park.
The two though will miss Wednesday's league game for Kansas City down in Houston against the Dynamo. That's certainly a blow for KC, but Ike Opara and Benny Feilhaber are certainly strong candidates to fill in well for the two, as they have multiple times already this season when Besler and Zusi have been called up.
The games in Kansas City and Panama will close out World Cup qualifying, which the US has already clinched a spot in. Jamaica is still technically alive but will take a miracle at this point to qualify. Panama could qualify, but need to probably win both of their games as they sit tied with Mexico on 8 points for 4th in the 6 team group.
Sunday After Stats
In the 78th minute, Seth Sinovic hit the 10,000 minute mark in all competitions for his MLS career, he finished the game with 10,013 minutes played.
Teal Bunbury's appearance was his 100th appearance in all competitions in his MLS career. He's the 32nd player to hit that mark for KC.
Graham Zusi's assist was his 18th game winning assist for KC in all competitions, tying him with Chris Klein for the second most in team history.
In the 71st minute, Zusi passed Bo Oshoniyi and moved into 20th place for minutes played in all competitions for KC. Zusi finished the game with 9,701 minutes played.
Jimmy Nielsen made his 125th league appearance for KC, tying him with Tony Meola for 12th all time, and the most appearances by a goalkeeper for KC.
It was also Nielsen's 125th league start for KC, tying him with Meola for 12th all time on that list as well, again the most for a goalkeeper for KC.
Matt Besler made his 124th league appearance, breaking his tie with Chris Brown for 14th on that list.
Besler also made his 136th start in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Diego Gutierrez for 13th on that list.
Teal Bunbury's appearance was his 100th appearance in all competitions in his MLS career. He's the 32nd player to hit that mark for KC.
Graham Zusi's assist was his 18th game winning assist for KC in all competitions, tying him with Chris Klein for the second most in team history.
In the 71st minute, Zusi passed Bo Oshoniyi and moved into 20th place for minutes played in all competitions for KC. Zusi finished the game with 9,701 minutes played.
Jimmy Nielsen made his 125th league appearance for KC, tying him with Tony Meola for 12th all time, and the most appearances by a goalkeeper for KC.
It was also Nielsen's 125th league start for KC, tying him with Meola for 12th all time on that list as well, again the most for a goalkeeper for KC.
Matt Besler made his 124th league appearance, breaking his tie with Chris Brown for 14th on that list.
Besler also made his 136th start in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Diego Gutierrez for 13th on that list.
What We Want to Happen 10/6
I'm a little late posting this with the LA vs Chivas USA game already kicked off (and LA up 4-0 right now). But here's a look at what we want to happen.
Chivas at LA
What we want to happen - Chivas win
This ain't happening, as I said, still in the first half, LA is up 4-0. LA getting a win would put them just 3 points back of KC. With all the teams between KC and LA though it's unlikely to matter much, but finishing ahead of LA is good for potentially hosting MLS Cup.
Portland at Vancouver
What we want to happen - Vancouver win
Portland winning allows them to jump over KC in the Supporters' Shield race. Having Vancouver pull off the win at home to keep their slim playoff hopes alive would also help KC in the race for the Supporters' Shield.
Chivas at LA
What we want to happen - Chivas win
This ain't happening, as I said, still in the first half, LA is up 4-0. LA getting a win would put them just 3 points back of KC. With all the teams between KC and LA though it's unlikely to matter much, but finishing ahead of LA is good for potentially hosting MLS Cup.
Portland at Vancouver
What we want to happen - Vancouver win
Portland winning allows them to jump over KC in the Supporters' Shield race. Having Vancouver pull off the win at home to keep their slim playoff hopes alive would also help KC in the race for the Supporters' Shield.
Workman Like Win
Soccer is a funny game. Last week against the Union, Sporting KC created a number of really good opportunities and looked good going forward except when it came to actually finishing their chances. Last night in Columbus didn't look as pretty for either team, but KC got the single goal that was necessary as they defeated the Columbus Crew for the third time this season, this time, 1-0.
KC had the early possession and created some chances and created a few chances. Graham Zusi forced Matt Lampson into a routine save in the 6th minute. Zusi dribbled down the left and then cut inside before firing a shot that went into the arms of Lampson. In the 11th minute they had another decent opportunity as Soony Saad picked out Seth Sinovic making a run down the left. Sinovic received the pass and dribbled into the box where Lampson had to push the ball over the bar from Sinovic's shot. In the 17th KC finally grabbed the lead. A corner by Zusi was hit towards the back post for Ike Opara. Opara challenged for the ball but the ball ended up getting knocked down to the feet of Dom Dwyer. Dwyer's shot was blocked by Chad Marshall in the box and cleared out wide where it was collected again by Zusi. Zusi played another cross to the back post where Opara was unmarked and he headed the ball into the net past Lampson to give KC the lead. Columbus' best chance of the first half came in the 29th off a free kick as it was played on the ground to Bernardo Anor. Anor's shot was deflected and ended up going over the bar for a corner kick.
In the second half KC almost doubled their lead early. After a poor turnover by Lampson, KC had the ball deep in Columbus' end. The ball went wide to Dwyer who looked to shoot, but had his shot well blocked before he could get enough space. Columbus threw numbers forward, but for a second it looked like KC had doubled their lead in the 69th, again through Opara. From a free kick deep in the corner, Zusi picked out Opara who beat Lampson, but the referee judged Opara to go over the Crew defender to get to the ball and whistled a foul. Columbus really didn't test KC much throughout the game, they're best chance came in the 81st. Off a corner kick the ball was headed on goal and appeared to have Jimmy Nielsen beaten, but Sinovic, following his man jumped up and got enough on the ball to head it over the cross bar. Federico Higuain had a great free kick opportunity in the 86th. Instead of going up and over the wall, Higuain tried to catch Nielsen leaning and shot towards the far post but put the shot wide. Columbus offered little else going forward as KC walked away with a 1-0 win.
Wizards Man of the Match - Ike Opara - Scored the game winning goal and really helped to shut down the Columbus attack. The defense allowed the Crew just a single shot on goal the entire game.
Honorable Mention - Matt Besler
Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Sinovic 6, Opara 8, Besler 7, Myers 6, Olum 7, Joseph 5, Zusi 6, Sapong 5, Dwyer 5, Saad 5. Subs Peterson 5, Bunbury NR.
KC had the early possession and created some chances and created a few chances. Graham Zusi forced Matt Lampson into a routine save in the 6th minute. Zusi dribbled down the left and then cut inside before firing a shot that went into the arms of Lampson. In the 11th minute they had another decent opportunity as Soony Saad picked out Seth Sinovic making a run down the left. Sinovic received the pass and dribbled into the box where Lampson had to push the ball over the bar from Sinovic's shot. In the 17th KC finally grabbed the lead. A corner by Zusi was hit towards the back post for Ike Opara. Opara challenged for the ball but the ball ended up getting knocked down to the feet of Dom Dwyer. Dwyer's shot was blocked by Chad Marshall in the box and cleared out wide where it was collected again by Zusi. Zusi played another cross to the back post where Opara was unmarked and he headed the ball into the net past Lampson to give KC the lead. Columbus' best chance of the first half came in the 29th off a free kick as it was played on the ground to Bernardo Anor. Anor's shot was deflected and ended up going over the bar for a corner kick.
In the second half KC almost doubled their lead early. After a poor turnover by Lampson, KC had the ball deep in Columbus' end. The ball went wide to Dwyer who looked to shoot, but had his shot well blocked before he could get enough space. Columbus threw numbers forward, but for a second it looked like KC had doubled their lead in the 69th, again through Opara. From a free kick deep in the corner, Zusi picked out Opara who beat Lampson, but the referee judged Opara to go over the Crew defender to get to the ball and whistled a foul. Columbus really didn't test KC much throughout the game, they're best chance came in the 81st. Off a corner kick the ball was headed on goal and appeared to have Jimmy Nielsen beaten, but Sinovic, following his man jumped up and got enough on the ball to head it over the cross bar. Federico Higuain had a great free kick opportunity in the 86th. Instead of going up and over the wall, Higuain tried to catch Nielsen leaning and shot towards the far post but put the shot wide. Columbus offered little else going forward as KC walked away with a 1-0 win.
Wizards Man of the Match - Ike Opara - Scored the game winning goal and really helped to shut down the Columbus attack. The defense allowed the Crew just a single shot on goal the entire game.
Honorable Mention - Matt Besler
Player Ratings - Nielsen 6, Sinovic 6, Opara 8, Besler 7, Myers 6, Olum 7, Joseph 5, Zusi 6, Sapong 5, Dwyer 5, Saad 5. Subs Peterson 5, Bunbury NR.
Saturday, October 05, 2013
What We Want to Happen 10/5
So last night didn't go KC's way when it came to results. Chicago won in DC and Houston pulled out a win over Montreal. The results make the Eastern Conference that much tighter. KC is just two points ahead of 4th place Montreal, and only five above 5th place Chicago. Today there are a four matches, not counting KC's against Columbus, and all of them can have some affect on KC for playoff positioning.
New England at New York
What we want to happen - New England win.
A New England win here would mean that KC can't clinch a playoff spot this weekend, no matter their result against Columbus. But when it comes to the top of the East and the Supporters' Shield, KC has to hope that New York doesn't pick up many more points. The playoffs will come, but to keep pace for the Supporters' Shield and top seed in the East, KC needs the Revolution to pull out a win.
Toronto at Philadelphia
What we want to happen - Toronto win.
Although with wanting the above result makes clinching a playoff birth this weekend impossible, a Philadelphia loss would basically keep them from catching KC this season, even if KC loses to Columbus. So knocking another team out of the way of catching KC would be nice for Sporting.
Dallas at Real Salt Lake
What we want to happen - Dallas win
RSL sits three points ahead of KC in the race for the Suppporters' Shield. Even though Salt Lake has played one game more than KC currently, having Salt Lake drop points would be a boost for the chances of getting the Supporters' Shield. Especially if KC gets a win, at which point they'd tie RSL for points.
Seattle at Colorado
What we want to happen - Colorado win
Another game with Supporters' Shield ramifications. Seattle, like RSL, sits three points ahead of KC, currently on 51 points. The difference is that Seattle has played one game fewer than KC, and two games fewer than RSL and New York. So them dropping points is big for KC if they hope to catch and pass the Sounders.
New England at New York
What we want to happen - New England win.
A New England win here would mean that KC can't clinch a playoff spot this weekend, no matter their result against Columbus. But when it comes to the top of the East and the Supporters' Shield, KC has to hope that New York doesn't pick up many more points. The playoffs will come, but to keep pace for the Supporters' Shield and top seed in the East, KC needs the Revolution to pull out a win.
Toronto at Philadelphia
What we want to happen - Toronto win.
Although with wanting the above result makes clinching a playoff birth this weekend impossible, a Philadelphia loss would basically keep them from catching KC this season, even if KC loses to Columbus. So knocking another team out of the way of catching KC would be nice for Sporting.
Dallas at Real Salt Lake
What we want to happen - Dallas win
RSL sits three points ahead of KC in the race for the Suppporters' Shield. Even though Salt Lake has played one game more than KC currently, having Salt Lake drop points would be a boost for the chances of getting the Supporters' Shield. Especially if KC gets a win, at which point they'd tie RSL for points.
Seattle at Colorado
What we want to happen - Colorado win
Another game with Supporters' Shield ramifications. Seattle, like RSL, sits three points ahead of KC, currently on 51 points. The difference is that Seattle has played one game fewer than KC, and two games fewer than RSL and New York. So them dropping points is big for KC if they hope to catch and pass the Sounders.
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