It appears that there is one less soccer team in the KC metro area. Today, the United Soccer League released the schedule for their Premier Development League season. One name absent from the list for the first time since 1997 is the Kansas City Brass.
There'd been rumors towards the end of last year that the Brass would not be returning in the 2014 season. At the time I was skeptical of it, because I'd been lulled into assuming they'd always just be there. With them not appearing on the schedule this year I can assume that they'll join the long list of clubs that have folded in the PDL's history.
Throughout their history, the Brass had rarely been a force in the PDL, only once, in 1998 making the playoffs, and just twice qualifying for the US Open Cup (1998 and 2007) losing both of those games. The club's record all time is below .500, at 89-148-26. Only twice in their history have they finished with a winning record. They have produced a number of professional players, most of which have spent time with the Wizards/Sporting KC. The likes of Ryan Raybould, Will John, Kevin Ellis, and Michael Thomas have all played with the Brass in their career. All KC locals who if the academy had been around at the time would have likely been in KC's academy (save Ellis who was an SKC academy product).
It's a blow for development of players locally in Kansas City. The metro now becomes just the second city with an MLS team but no PDL team, the other is Columbus. I'm counting Provo as a pseudo suburb of Salt Lake.
Now true there are areas nearby for players to play, the likes of Des Moines, Springfield, and St. Louis are all in the Heartland Conference that the Brass played in. But the fact that there won't be a local team in KC is a blow to area KC players and development. Specifically the reason for that has to do with Sporting KC's academy program and producing pro players. Because as I mentioned above, a number of future professionals that grew up in KC played for the Brass at one time or another.
I mentioned, just over two years ago how a number of MLS teams had U23 teams playing in the PDL and how a team could use that as a way to help keep players home grown eligible. Since that post, both San Jose and Montreal are adding PDL teams, and another one (New York) in the NPSL. Then there are the likes of Philadelphia who have a set affiliation with Reading United. It's a development aspect that is lacking in Sporting's development model. They have the academy that has produced the likes of Jon Kempin and Erik Palmer-Brown and they are the reigning MLS Cup champs. But they don't have anything really to fill the gap between players playing in their academy system and playing for the first team. A PDL team with SKC coaches involved would count towards that players availability to eventually be selected as a home grown player for Sporting KC.
In that article a few years ago I mentioned that Sporting should consider buying the Brass's PDL rights as a way to help fill that gap. With the Brass gone, maybe Sporting now comes in and just gets their own franchise into the league. The new stadium at the Swope Park Soccer Village would be the perfect place for a PDL team to play in KC. It's not too large and would create a good environment right in the shadows of where the first team practices. Whether Sporting sees the benefit of it or not is another question.
Friday, January 31, 2014
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Thomas Becomes OKC Energy's First Player - Former SKC Wizards Update
Sporting KC USL-Pro affiliate, the Oklahoma City Energy announced their first player signing today. That player was former Sporting KC midfielder, Michael Thomas. Thomas made seven league appearances for Sporting KC in 2012 and 2013 before being traded to Toronto. With former KC captain, Jimmy Nielsen being named the head coach of the Energy recently, it's not surprising that a former KC player is being added to the roster.
A number of former players are also currently on trial around MLS. Former draft pick Pablo Punyed is with Kansas City, trying to earn a spot after originally going abroad. Khari Stephenson, last year with Real Salt Lake is in camp with DC United currently, while Konrad Warzycha is back with Columbus trying to earn a roster spot with the team that did not pick up his option last season.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Ivan Trujillo
Michael Thomas
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Had two assists in Baltimore's 10-5 win over Syracuse. Had two assists in Baltimore's 17-2 win over Rochester.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Did not dress in Charleroi's 3-0 loss to Cercle Brugge.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 89 minutes in Chivas' 1-1 draw with Atlante.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Defeated Linces de Tlaxcala
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - No game until 2/22
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - No game until 2/7
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Came off the bench and played 15 minutes in W Connection's 2-0 win over North East Stars.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Lost to Union Magdalena 3-1.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Wigan's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace. Started and played 90 minutes in Wigan's 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 63 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 win over Morelia.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Did not dress in Boavista's 0-0 draw with Bonsucesso.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game until 2/1
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Came off the bench and played 31 minutes in Middlesbrough's 2-0 loss to Leicester City. Came off the bench and played 7 minutes in Middlesbrough's 0-0 draw with Wigan.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Offseason.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game until 2/2
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game til March.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No games until February.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Ross County's 2-1 loss to Hearts.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Season starts 2/28.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 56 minutes in Munster's 0-0 draw with Rot-Weiss Erfurt.
A number of former players are also currently on trial around MLS. Former draft pick Pablo Punyed is with Kansas City, trying to earn a spot after originally going abroad. Khari Stephenson, last year with Real Salt Lake is in camp with DC United currently, while Konrad Warzycha is back with Columbus trying to earn a roster spot with the team that did not pick up his option last season.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Ivan Trujillo
Michael Thomas
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Phoenix - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Had two assists in Baltimore's 10-5 win over Syracuse. Had two assists in Baltimore's 17-2 win over Rochester.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Did not dress in Charleroi's 3-0 loss to Cercle Brugge.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 89 minutes in Chivas' 1-1 draw with Atlante.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Defeated Linces de Tlaxcala
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - No game until 2/22
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - No game until 2/7
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Came off the bench and played 15 minutes in W Connection's 2-0 win over North East Stars.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Lost to Union Magdalena 3-1.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Wigan's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace. Started and played 90 minutes in Wigan's 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 63 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 win over Morelia.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Did not dress in Boavista's 0-0 draw with Bonsucesso.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game until 2/1
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Came off the bench and played 31 minutes in Middlesbrough's 2-0 loss to Leicester City. Came off the bench and played 7 minutes in Middlesbrough's 0-0 draw with Wigan.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Offseason.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game until 2/2
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game til March.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No games until February.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Ross County's 2-1 loss to Hearts.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Season starts 2/28.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 56 minutes in Munster's 0-0 draw with Rot-Weiss Erfurt.
Sporting KC and Chance Myers Agree to Contract
One of the big talking points of the offseason so far for Sporting KC has been whether starting right back, Chance Myers would return to the team. In the past week the entire situation has gone back and forth. Last week a deal between the team and Myers didn't sound very likely. Reports were that he was wanting more money than what Kansas City had offered.
Then yesterday the news took a much more positive turn with Peter Vermes being quoted as saying that we could hear something yesterday or today.
Well today we got this Tweet from Myers' agent:
Word from the team is that no contract has been signed yet, but that the two parties had agreed in principal to a deal. And with Myers' agent tweeting about it, you have to assume that things are pretty much wrapped up.
The re-signing of Myers would mean that KC would have lost just two of the 18 players that dressed for MLS Cup against Real Salt Lake. Only the retiring Jimmy Nielsen and the waived Federico Bessone have left the roster.
Then yesterday the news took a much more positive turn with Peter Vermes being quoted as saying that we could hear something yesterday or today.
Well today we got this Tweet from Myers' agent:
Terms agreed w #MLS @CR_Myers will be joining up w @SportingKC soon in preseason Good work by all parties to get it done and keep him here.
— Mike Gartlan (@mikegartlan) January 29, 2014
Word from the team is that no contract has been signed yet, but that the two parties had agreed in principal to a deal. And with Myers' agent tweeting about it, you have to assume that things are pretty much wrapped up.
The re-signing of Myers would mean that KC would have lost just two of the 18 players that dressed for MLS Cup against Real Salt Lake. Only the retiring Jimmy Nielsen and the waived Federico Bessone have left the roster.
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Sporting Win, KC Chasing Winger?, Palmer-Brown Called Up, Myers Update
The 2014 season feels extremely close now after Sporting KC kicked off their preseason slate of games against PDL side, FC Tucson. Sporting KC got a first half goal from CJ Sapong to help lead them to a 1-0 win. The main talking point of the game ended up being how Sporting KC designated player, Claudio Bieler lined up. With Benny Feilhaber and Graham Zusi away with the US national team, Bieler lined up in an attacking midfield position right behind starting center forward, Dom Dwyer. Bieler ended up getting the assist on Sapong's opening goal, and was praised by Peter Vermes after the game as being "very fit at the moment (compared) to last year."
Sporting played 26 players in all in the game today with none playing more than 45 minutes. Of the players on the roster and in camp, that left six players that didn't appear. Goalkeepers Jon Kempin and Jacole Turner did not play as Eric Kronberg and AndyGruenebaum split time. Seth Sinovic just arrived back with the team after training with the US team and did not play. Also not playing was Peterson Joseph, who we've had no update on his health and the tests that were done since the end of the 2013 season. The other two, Jacob Peterson and Oriol Rosell, I can find no specific reason why they did not play.
Sporting Chasing Former Barcelona Winger?
There are two positions that Sporting KC fans have said the team could stand to upgrade this offseason. The first was a midfielder to play the box-to-box role to help take pressure off of Paulo Nagamura. The second was a left sided winger. Word out of Spain, picked up by Tribal Football, has Sporting in the running to try to land former Barcelona Winger, Jeffren Suarez. The Venezuelan, who has represented Spain at the youth levels has most recently been playing with Sporting Lisbon. But from reading the Spanish article, it appears the winger is more likely to Real Valladolid or Rayo Vallecano, as he's apparently wanting to return to Spain. Still if Sporting can grab him, it could solve one of KC's problems.
Palmer-Brown call up
While he's been the rumor of transfer speculation the last week or so, Erik Palmer-Brown made a 45 minute appearance for Sporting KC today as a second half sub. That will be Palmer-Brown's only game with the team in Arizona as he's been called up to the US U18 team for the Copa del Atlantico in Spain. The tournament is held in Spain from January 30th through February 8th with the US playing games on the 4th, 5th, and 7th against the hosts Spain, Argentina, and the Canary Islands.
Myers Close to Re-Signing?
It's amazing how things can change in a day. Yesterday I was thinking that Chance Myers was on his way out of KC. Comments from a few people on Twitter made it sound like Myers was wanting more money than KC was willing to pay and Myers was ready to head abroad. Now news today from Vermes says that Sporting is close to re-signing the right back. In an interview with the Star, Vermes said that they'd hope to have news today or tomorrow about Myers' return to the team.
Sporting played 26 players in all in the game today with none playing more than 45 minutes. Of the players on the roster and in camp, that left six players that didn't appear. Goalkeepers Jon Kempin and Jacole Turner did not play as Eric Kronberg and AndyGruenebaum split time. Seth Sinovic just arrived back with the team after training with the US team and did not play. Also not playing was Peterson Joseph, who we've had no update on his health and the tests that were done since the end of the 2013 season. The other two, Jacob Peterson and Oriol Rosell, I can find no specific reason why they did not play.
Sporting Chasing Former Barcelona Winger?
There are two positions that Sporting KC fans have said the team could stand to upgrade this offseason. The first was a midfielder to play the box-to-box role to help take pressure off of Paulo Nagamura. The second was a left sided winger. Word out of Spain, picked up by Tribal Football, has Sporting in the running to try to land former Barcelona Winger, Jeffren Suarez. The Venezuelan, who has represented Spain at the youth levels has most recently been playing with Sporting Lisbon. But from reading the Spanish article, it appears the winger is more likely to Real Valladolid or Rayo Vallecano, as he's apparently wanting to return to Spain. Still if Sporting can grab him, it could solve one of KC's problems.
Palmer-Brown call up
While he's been the rumor of transfer speculation the last week or so, Erik Palmer-Brown made a 45 minute appearance for Sporting KC today as a second half sub. That will be Palmer-Brown's only game with the team in Arizona as he's been called up to the US U18 team for the Copa del Atlantico in Spain. The tournament is held in Spain from January 30th through February 8th with the US playing games on the 4th, 5th, and 7th against the hosts Spain, Argentina, and the Canary Islands.
Myers Close to Re-Signing?
It's amazing how things can change in a day. Yesterday I was thinking that Chance Myers was on his way out of KC. Comments from a few people on Twitter made it sound like Myers was wanting more money than KC was willing to pay and Myers was ready to head abroad. Now news today from Vermes says that Sporting is close to re-signing the right back. In an interview with the Star, Vermes said that they'd hope to have news today or tomorrow about Myers' return to the team.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Sporting KC Player News
Some player news regarding Sporting KC from today and this weekend.
Update on Palmer-Brown and Juventus
Sporting KC has said that they have no comment on the rumors of Erik Palmer-Brown going to Juventus but that hasn't stopped the Italian press from continuing to talk about the move.
The newer information from Italy follows much of the same information that came out originally. The deal according to the Italian media will be finalized after the current transfer window. Palmer-Brown will apparently stay with KC until he turns 18, at which time he will head to Juventus. This is mainly because of contract rules in Europe that are designed to protect players under 18. Players under 18 cannot move to a club in Europe unless they have an EU passport. The only other way a player could get to a club in Europe without an EU passport is if the player's parents get a job in Europe. But obviously that would be looked at more carefully if Palmer-Brown's parents magically got a job in Turin. So unless Palmer-Brown has an EU passport that hasn't been mentioned, he likely can't move to Europe yet.
The Italian media was also saying that the transfer fee was $250,000 but could increase depending on Palmer-Brown's playing time for Kansas City.
Myers Status
The status of Chance Myers is still up in the air. Sporting KC's right back is currently out of contract. Sporting KC have made him what they believe to be a good offer and the ball is in his court now. At this point though, it does not appear that Myers will be coming back.
According to the above Tweets, Myers is looking for more money than what Kansas City has offered. According to the Players' Union salary release, Myers was on a base salary of $105,000 last year. My guess for what Sporting offered is that it was somewhere in the $150,000 range. That would put him just above former teammate, Michael Harrington, who made $140,000 according to the union.
Part of me is wondering if Myers is trying to get himself closer to the $200,000 mark. The likes of Richard Eckersley, Sean Franklin, and Heath Pearce are all making over $200,000 according to the Union. Eckersley and Pearce both made over $300,000. If that is true, I'd say that you let Myers walk, you don't want to lock that much up in one of your wingbacks. (Notice that Franklin and Pearce was left available in the re-entry draft and Eckersley was just traded by Toronto.)
Medrandra Still to Return?
Colombian midfielder, Jimmy Medranda hasn't been part of Sporting KC's preseason so far this season. From reports in Colombia, Medranda has been playing for his club, Deportivo Pereira in their preseason games ahead of their season. The assumption was that since Medranda was playing with his Colombian club, he was unlikely to be returning to KC.
Back on Saturday though, this was posted by a journalist in Colombia:
Basically is says that Medranda wants to return to the US and would likely not be on Pereira's roster/payroll come Tuesday when it'll be announced. Medranda, the 6th youngest player to appear in a league game for KC could bring even more competition for spots in preseason. He'd compete with draft picks, Alex Martinez and Reinaldo Brenes for a spot on the roster.
Update on Palmer-Brown and Juventus
Sporting KC has said that they have no comment on the rumors of Erik Palmer-Brown going to Juventus but that hasn't stopped the Italian press from continuing to talk about the move.
The newer information from Italy follows much of the same information that came out originally. The deal according to the Italian media will be finalized after the current transfer window. Palmer-Brown will apparently stay with KC until he turns 18, at which time he will head to Juventus. This is mainly because of contract rules in Europe that are designed to protect players under 18. Players under 18 cannot move to a club in Europe unless they have an EU passport. The only other way a player could get to a club in Europe without an EU passport is if the player's parents get a job in Europe. But obviously that would be looked at more carefully if Palmer-Brown's parents magically got a job in Turin. So unless Palmer-Brown has an EU passport that hasn't been mentioned, he likely can't move to Europe yet.
The Italian media was also saying that the transfer fee was $250,000 but could increase depending on Palmer-Brown's playing time for Kansas City.
Myers Status
The status of Chance Myers is still up in the air. Sporting KC's right back is currently out of contract. Sporting KC have made him what they believe to be a good offer and the ball is in his court now. At this point though, it does not appear that Myers will be coming back.
Talks between SKC & out-out-of-contract Chance Myers ongoing. Remain apart on $. Hearing Myers could explore options in Germany/Scandinavia.
— Andrew Wiebe (@andrew_wiebe) January 24, 2014
Following up on the Vancouver RB chase, source tells me Caps made inquiry for Chance Myers, but Myers wanted more $$. #vwfc
— Jeff Carlisle (@JeffreyCarlisle) January 26, 2014
According to the above Tweets, Myers is looking for more money than what Kansas City has offered. According to the Players' Union salary release, Myers was on a base salary of $105,000 last year. My guess for what Sporting offered is that it was somewhere in the $150,000 range. That would put him just above former teammate, Michael Harrington, who made $140,000 according to the union.
Part of me is wondering if Myers is trying to get himself closer to the $200,000 mark. The likes of Richard Eckersley, Sean Franklin, and Heath Pearce are all making over $200,000 according to the Union. Eckersley and Pearce both made over $300,000. If that is true, I'd say that you let Myers walk, you don't want to lock that much up in one of your wingbacks. (Notice that Franklin and Pearce was left available in the re-entry draft and Eckersley was just traded by Toronto.)
Medrandra Still to Return?
Colombian midfielder, Jimmy Medranda hasn't been part of Sporting KC's preseason so far this season. From reports in Colombia, Medranda has been playing for his club, Deportivo Pereira in their preseason games ahead of their season. The assumption was that since Medranda was playing with his Colombian club, he was unlikely to be returning to KC.
Back on Saturday though, this was posted by a journalist in Colombia:
Jimmy Medranda quiere continuidad en los Estados Unidos, seguramente no estará en planilla el martes. @DeporPereira
— Edwin Herrera (@edwinjj5) January 25, 2014
Basically is says that Medranda wants to return to the US and would likely not be on Pereira's roster/payroll come Tuesday when it'll be announced. Medranda, the 6th youngest player to appear in a league game for KC could bring even more competition for spots in preseason. He'd compete with draft picks, Alex Martinez and Reinaldo Brenes for a spot on the roster.
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Youngest and Oldest Players to Appear/Start for KC
Another stat for you, the youngest and oldest players to appear in or start games in league play and in all competitions.
In league play, one new player joined the list, on loan midfielder, Jimmy Medranda came in at 6th when he came on as a sub against the Columbus Crew. Medranda knocked Daneil Cyrus out of the top 10. Of players that could join this list this year, there's only one currently on the roster, 16 year old Erik Palmer-Brown.
Ten youngest to appear in a league game for KC.
1. Nino da Silva - 18 years, 158 days - 8/31/1997 - DC United
2. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 311 days - 5/13/2006 - DC United
3. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 - Portland
4. Jake Dancy - 19 years, 137 days - 8/24/1997 - San Jose
5. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
6. Jimmy Medranda - 19 years, 212 days - 9/7/2013 - Columbus
7. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 28 days - 3/27/2011 - DC United
8. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 35 days - 8/11/2012 - DC United
9. Chance Myers - 20 years, 124 days - 4/9/2008 - New England
10. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 132 days - 6/6/1999 - Los Angeles
In all competitions, again Medranda joined the list, coming in at 7th place on this list. Another named that joined the list this year was first round draft pick, Mikey Lopez who made his professional debut against Des Moines in the US Open Cup. They knocked Chance Myers and Francisco Gomez out of the top 10.
Ten youngest to appear in a competitive game for KC.
1. Nino da Silva - 18 years, 158 days - 8/31/1997 - DC United
2. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 311 days - 5/13/2006 - DC United
3. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 - Portland
4. Jon Kempin - 19 years, 51 days - 5/29/2012 - Orlando
5. Jake Dancy - 19 years, 137 days - 8/24/1997 - San Jose
6. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
7. Jimmy Medranda - 19 years, 212 days - 9/7/2013 - Columbus
8. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 28 days - 3/27/2011 - DC United
9. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 35 days - 8/11/2012 - DC United
10. Mikey Lopez - 20 years, 97 days - 5/28/2013 - Des Moines
Of league starts, no new players joined the list this year.
Ten youngest players to START a league match.
1. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 357 days - 6/28/2006 - DC United
2. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
3. Soony Saad - 19 years, 308 days - 6/20/2012 - Seattle
4. Nino da Silva - 20 years, 11 days - 6/6/1999 - Los Angeles
5. Jake Dancy - 20 years, 52 days - 5/31/1998 - Colorado
6. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 77 days - 9/22/2012 - Montreal
7. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 85 days - 5/23/2010 - Columbus
8. Chance Myers - 20 years, 127 days - 4/12/2008 - Houston
9. Daneil Cyrus - 20 years ,227 days - 7/30/2011 - New England
10. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 228 days - 9/10/1999 - Colorado
In all competition starts, Lopez again joined the top 10, knocking Cyrus out of the top 10.
Ten youngest players to START a competitive game for KC.
1. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 357 days - 6/28/2006 - DC United
2. Jon Kempin - 19 years, 51 days - 5/29/2012 - Orlando
3. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
4. Soony Saad - 19 years, 286 days - 5/29/2012 - Orlando
5. Nino da Silva - 20 years, 11 days - 6/6/1999 - Los Angeles
6. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 45 days - 4/13/2010 - Colorado
7. Jake Dancy - 20 years, 52 days - 5/31/1998 - Colorado
8. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 77 days - 9/22/2012 - Montreal
9, Mikey Lopez - 20 years, 97 days - 5/28/2013 - Des Moines
10. Chance Myers - 20 years, 127 days - 4/12/2008 - Houston
Among the oldest players, the only movement on the list is goalkeeper Jimmy Nielsen moving up the list. On all four of the lists below, Nielsen finished his career as the 3rd oldest all time behind the Preki and Mo Johnston.
Ten oldest players to appear in a league game for KC.
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 - Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 121 days - 8/12/2001 - Colorado
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 81 days - 10/26/2013 - Philadelphia
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 303 days - 9/20/2002 - Colorado
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 179 days - 8/18/2004 - Columbus
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 174 days - 9/26/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 115 days - 10/25/2008 - New England
Ten oldest players in all competitions for KC.
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 - Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 222 days - 11/21/2001 - Santos Laguna
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 123 days - 12/7/2013 - Salt Lake
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 315 days - 10/2/2002 - Los Angeles
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 214 days - 9/22/2004 - Chicago
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 186 days - 10/8/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 115 days - 10/25/2008 - New England
Ten oldest players to START a league game.
1. Preki - 42 years, 99 days - 10/1/2005 - Chicago
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 113 days - 8/4/2001 - Columbus
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 81 days - 10/26/2013 - Philadelphia
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 303 days - 9/20/2002 - Colorado
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 179 days - 8/18/2004 - Columbus
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 174 days - 9/26/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 67 days - 9/7/2008 - Houston
Ten oldest players to START a competitive game for KC.
1. Preki - 42 years, 99 days - 10/1/2005 - Chicago
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 222 days - 11/21/2001 - Santos Laguna
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 123 days - 12/7/2013 - Salt Lake
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 315 days - 10/2/2002 - Los Angeles
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 214 days - 9/22/2004 - Chicago
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 186 days - 10/8/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 67 days - 9/7/2008 - Houston
In league play, one new player joined the list, on loan midfielder, Jimmy Medranda came in at 6th when he came on as a sub against the Columbus Crew. Medranda knocked Daneil Cyrus out of the top 10. Of players that could join this list this year, there's only one currently on the roster, 16 year old Erik Palmer-Brown.
Ten youngest to appear in a league game for KC.
1. Nino da Silva - 18 years, 158 days - 8/31/1997 - DC United
2. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 311 days - 5/13/2006 - DC United
3. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 - Portland
4. Jake Dancy - 19 years, 137 days - 8/24/1997 - San Jose
5. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
6. Jimmy Medranda - 19 years, 212 days - 9/7/2013 - Columbus
7. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 28 days - 3/27/2011 - DC United
8. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 35 days - 8/11/2012 - DC United
9. Chance Myers - 20 years, 124 days - 4/9/2008 - New England
10. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 132 days - 6/6/1999 - Los Angeles
In all competitions, again Medranda joined the list, coming in at 7th place on this list. Another named that joined the list this year was first round draft pick, Mikey Lopez who made his professional debut against Des Moines in the US Open Cup. They knocked Chance Myers and Francisco Gomez out of the top 10.
Ten youngest to appear in a competitive game for KC.
1. Nino da Silva - 18 years, 158 days - 8/31/1997 - DC United
2. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 311 days - 5/13/2006 - DC United
3. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 - Portland
4. Jon Kempin - 19 years, 51 days - 5/29/2012 - Orlando
5. Jake Dancy - 19 years, 137 days - 8/24/1997 - San Jose
6. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
7. Jimmy Medranda - 19 years, 212 days - 9/7/2013 - Columbus
8. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 28 days - 3/27/2011 - DC United
9. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 35 days - 8/11/2012 - DC United
10. Mikey Lopez - 20 years, 97 days - 5/28/2013 - Des Moines
Of league starts, no new players joined the list this year.
Ten youngest players to START a league match.
1. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 357 days - 6/28/2006 - DC United
2. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
3. Soony Saad - 19 years, 308 days - 6/20/2012 - Seattle
4. Nino da Silva - 20 years, 11 days - 6/6/1999 - Los Angeles
5. Jake Dancy - 20 years, 52 days - 5/31/1998 - Colorado
6. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 77 days - 9/22/2012 - Montreal
7. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 85 days - 5/23/2010 - Columbus
8. Chance Myers - 20 years, 127 days - 4/12/2008 - Houston
9. Daneil Cyrus - 20 years ,227 days - 7/30/2011 - New England
10. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 228 days - 9/10/1999 - Colorado
In all competition starts, Lopez again joined the top 10, knocking Cyrus out of the top 10.
Ten youngest players to START a competitive game for KC.
1. Yura Movsisyan - 18 years, 357 days - 6/28/2006 - DC United
2. Jon Kempin - 19 years, 51 days - 5/29/2012 - Orlando
3. Jose Burciaga - 19 years, 184 days - 5/19/2001 - Chicago
4. Soony Saad - 19 years, 286 days - 5/29/2012 - Orlando
5. Nino da Silva - 20 years, 11 days - 6/6/1999 - Los Angeles
6. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 45 days - 4/13/2010 - Colorado
7. Jake Dancy - 20 years, 52 days - 5/31/1998 - Colorado
8. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 77 days - 9/22/2012 - Montreal
9, Mikey Lopez - 20 years, 97 days - 5/28/2013 - Des Moines
10. Chance Myers - 20 years, 127 days - 4/12/2008 - Houston
Among the oldest players, the only movement on the list is goalkeeper Jimmy Nielsen moving up the list. On all four of the lists below, Nielsen finished his career as the 3rd oldest all time behind the Preki and Mo Johnston.
Ten oldest players to appear in a league game for KC.
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 - Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 121 days - 8/12/2001 - Colorado
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 81 days - 10/26/2013 - Philadelphia
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 303 days - 9/20/2002 - Colorado
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 179 days - 8/18/2004 - Columbus
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 174 days - 9/26/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 115 days - 10/25/2008 - New England
Ten oldest players in all competitions for KC.
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 - Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 222 days - 11/21/2001 - Santos Laguna
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 123 days - 12/7/2013 - Salt Lake
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 315 days - 10/2/2002 - Los Angeles
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 214 days - 9/22/2004 - Chicago
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 186 days - 10/8/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 115 days - 10/25/2008 - New England
Ten oldest players to START a league game.
1. Preki - 42 years, 99 days - 10/1/2005 - Chicago
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 113 days - 8/4/2001 - Columbus
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 81 days - 10/26/2013 - Philadelphia
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 303 days - 9/20/2002 - Colorado
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 179 days - 8/18/2004 - Columbus
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 174 days - 9/26/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 67 days - 9/7/2008 - Houston
Ten oldest players to START a competitive game for KC.
1. Preki - 42 years, 99 days - 10/1/2005 - Chicago
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 222 days - 11/21/2001 - Santos Laguna
3. Jimmy Nielsen - 36 years, 123 days - 12/7/2013 - Salt Lake
4. Peter Vermes - 35 years, 315 days - 10/2/2002 - Los Angeles
5. Tony Meola - 35 years, 214 days - 9/22/2004 - Chicago
6. Richard Gough - 35 years, 186 days - 10/8/1997 - Colorado
7. Kevin Hartman - 35 years, 152 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
8. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 - DC United
9. Bo Oshoniyi - 34 years, 345 days - 10/14/2006 - New York
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 34 years, 67 days - 9/7/2008 - Houston
Youngest and Oldest Goal Scorers for Kansas City
Another stat for you, this time the oldest and youngest goal scorers. This year in league play there was one new addition to the youngest goal scorers list. Dom Dwyer's first MLS goal just after his 23rd birthday sees him enter the list at 18th. Knocking Ryan Smith out of the top 20.
1. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 vs Portland
2. Yura Movsisyan - 19 years, 293 days - 4/25/2007 vs Toronto
3. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 56 days - 9/1/2012 vs Toronto
4. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 137 days - 7/14/2010 vs Columbus
5. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 146 days - 6/20/1999 vs New York
6. Michael Harrington - 21 years, 80 days - 4/14/2007 vs DC
7. Scott Vermillion - 21 years, 243 days - 8/23/1998 vs Miami
8. Roger Espinoza - 21 years, 266 days - 7/17/2008 vs Columbus
9. Ryan Pore - 21 years, 344 days - 9/3/2005 vs New York
10. Eddie Johnson - 22 years, 1 day - 4/1/2006 vs Columbus
11. Chris Brown - 22 years, 31 days - 4/10/1999 vs San Jose
12. CJ Sapong - 22 years, 82 days - 3/19/2011 vs Chivas
13. Jose Burciaga - 22 years, 223 days - 6/26/2004 vs San Jose
14. Matt McKeon - 22 years, 240 days - 5/22/1997 vs Columbus
15. Matt Taylor - 22 years, 246 days - 6/19/2004 vs New England
16. Vicente Figueroa - 22 years, 299 days - 8/16/2000 vs San Jose
17. Davy Arnaud - 22 years, 350 days - 6/7/2003 vs New York
18. Dom Dwyer - 23 years, 4 days - 8/3/2013 vs New York
19. Jack Jewsbury - 23 years, 39 days - 5/22/2004 vs Dallas
20. Chris Klein - 23 years, 124 days - 5/8/1999 vs LA
In all competitions, Dwyer just barely joined the list, landing in the 20th spot, knocking Jack Jewsbury out of the top 20 on this list.
1. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 vs Portland
2. Yura Movsisyan - 19 years, 293 days - 4/25/2007 vs Toronto
3. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 45 days - 4/13/2010 vs Colorado
4. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 56 days - 9/1/2012 vs Toronto
5. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 146 days - 6/20/1999 vs New York
6. Michael Harrington - 21 years, 80 days - 4/14/2007 vs DC
7. Scott Vermillion - 21 years, 243 days - 8/23/1998 vs Miami
8. Roger Espinoza - 21 years, 266 days - 7/17/2008 vs Columbus
9. Ryan Pore - 21 years, 344 days - 9/3/2005 vs New York
10. Justin Detter - 21 years, 363 days - 8/4/2004 vs Dallas
11. Eddie Johnson - 22 years, 1 day - 4/1/2006 vs Columbus
12. Matt McKeon - 22 years, 2 days - 9/26/1996 vs Dallas
13. Chris Brown - 22 years, 31 days - 4/10/1999 vs San Jose
14. CJ Sapong - 22 years, 82 days - 3/19/2011 vs Chivas
15T. Jose Burciaga - 22 years, 223 days - 6/26/2004 vs San Jose
15T. Rauwshan McKenzie - 22 years, 223 days - 6/30/2009 vs Minnesota
17. Matt Taylor - 22 years, 246 days - 6/19/2004 vs New England
18. Vicente Figueroa - 22 years, 299 days - 8/16/2000 vs San Jose
19. Davy Arnaud - 22 years, 350 days - 6/7/2003 vs New York
20. Dom Dwyer - 23 years, 4 days - 8/3/2013 vs New York
On the list of oldest goal scorers, no players join either list this year. This coming year, late in the season, Claudio Bieler could join the list though.
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 vs Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 5 days - 4/18/2001 vs Miami
3. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 vs DC
4. Paul Rideout - 34 years, 2 days - 8/16/1998 vs Columbus
5. Julio Cesar - 33 years, 211 days - 6/16/2012 vs Toronto
6. Josh Wolff - 33 years, 209 days - 9/22/2010 vs Houston
7. Jimmy Conrad - 33 years, 197 days - 8/28/2010 vs LA
8. Peter Vermes - 33 years, 188 days - 5/27/2000 vs Tampa
9. Kerry Zavagnin - 33 years, 27 days - 7/29/2007 vs Chivas USA
10. Mark Santel - 33 years, 24 days - 7/29/2001 vs New England
11. Roy Lassiter - 33 years, 183 days - 9/8/2001 vs San Jose
12. Alex Bunbury - 32 years, 57 days - 8/14/1999 vs New York
13. Diego Gutierrez - 31 years, 320 days - 9/18/2004 vs San Jose
14. Birahim Diop - 31 years, 258 days - 10/23/2010 vs San Jose
15. Santiago Hirsig - 31 years, 247 days - 9/16/2009 vs Dallas
16. Omar Bravo - 31 years, 204 days - 9/23/2011 vs Philadelphia
17. Frank Klopas - 31 years, 5 days - 9/6/1997 vs Colorado
18. Sasha Victorine - 30 years, 188 days - 8/9/2008 vs Chivas USA
19. Dave van den Bergh - 30 years, 160 days - 10/14/2006 vs New York
20. Miklos Molnar - 30 years, 152 days - 9/9/2000 vs Tampa
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 vs Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 5 days - 4/18/2001 vs Miami
3. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 vs DC
4. Paul Rideout - 34 years, 2 days - 8/16/1998 vs Columbus
5. Julio Cesar - 33 years, 211 days - 6/16/2012 vs Toronto
6. Josh Wolff - 33 years, 209 days - 9/22/2010 vs Houston
7. Jimmy Conrad - 33 years, 197 days - 8/28/2010 vs LA
8. Peter Vermes - 33 years, 188 days - 5/27/2000 vs Tampa
9. Kerry Zavagnin - 33 years, 27 days - 7/29/2007 vs Chivas USA
10. Mark Santel - 33 years, 24 days - 7/29/2001 vs New England
11. Roy Lassiter - 32 years, 222 days - 10/17/2001 vs Barcelona
12. Alex Bunbury - 32 years, 57 days - 8/14/1999 vs New York
13. Diego Gutierrez - 31 years, 320 days - 9/18/2004 vs San Jose
14. Birahim Diop - 31 years, 258 days - 10/23/2010 vs San Jose
15. Santiago Hirsig - 31 years, 247 days - 9/16/2009 vs Dallas
16. Mike Burns - 31 years, 245 days - 3/16/2001 vs W Connection
17. Omar Bravo - 31 years, 204 days - 9/23/2011 vs Philadelphia
18. Frank Klopas - 31 years, 5 days - 9/6/1997 vs Colorado
19T. Sasha Victorine - 30 years, 188 days - 8/9/2008 vs Chivas USA
19T. Miklos Molnar - 30 years, 188 days - 10/15/2000 vs Chicago
1. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 vs Portland
2. Yura Movsisyan - 19 years, 293 days - 4/25/2007 vs Toronto
3. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 56 days - 9/1/2012 vs Toronto
4. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 137 days - 7/14/2010 vs Columbus
5. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 146 days - 6/20/1999 vs New York
6. Michael Harrington - 21 years, 80 days - 4/14/2007 vs DC
7. Scott Vermillion - 21 years, 243 days - 8/23/1998 vs Miami
8. Roger Espinoza - 21 years, 266 days - 7/17/2008 vs Columbus
9. Ryan Pore - 21 years, 344 days - 9/3/2005 vs New York
10. Eddie Johnson - 22 years, 1 day - 4/1/2006 vs Columbus
11. Chris Brown - 22 years, 31 days - 4/10/1999 vs San Jose
12. CJ Sapong - 22 years, 82 days - 3/19/2011 vs Chivas
13. Jose Burciaga - 22 years, 223 days - 6/26/2004 vs San Jose
14. Matt McKeon - 22 years, 240 days - 5/22/1997 vs Columbus
15. Matt Taylor - 22 years, 246 days - 6/19/2004 vs New England
16. Vicente Figueroa - 22 years, 299 days - 8/16/2000 vs San Jose
17. Davy Arnaud - 22 years, 350 days - 6/7/2003 vs New York
18. Dom Dwyer - 23 years, 4 days - 8/3/2013 vs New York
19. Jack Jewsbury - 23 years, 39 days - 5/22/2004 vs Dallas
20. Chris Klein - 23 years, 124 days - 5/8/1999 vs LA
In all competitions, Dwyer just barely joined the list, landing in the 20th spot, knocking Jack Jewsbury out of the top 20 on this list.
1. Soony Saad - 19 years, 0 days - 8/17/2011 vs Portland
2. Yura Movsisyan - 19 years, 293 days - 4/25/2007 vs Toronto
3. Teal Bunbury - 20 years, 45 days - 4/13/2010 vs Colorado
4. Oriol Rosell - 20 years, 56 days - 9/1/2012 vs Toronto
5. Francisco Gomez - 20 years, 146 days - 6/20/1999 vs New York
6. Michael Harrington - 21 years, 80 days - 4/14/2007 vs DC
7. Scott Vermillion - 21 years, 243 days - 8/23/1998 vs Miami
8. Roger Espinoza - 21 years, 266 days - 7/17/2008 vs Columbus
9. Ryan Pore - 21 years, 344 days - 9/3/2005 vs New York
10. Justin Detter - 21 years, 363 days - 8/4/2004 vs Dallas
11. Eddie Johnson - 22 years, 1 day - 4/1/2006 vs Columbus
12. Matt McKeon - 22 years, 2 days - 9/26/1996 vs Dallas
13. Chris Brown - 22 years, 31 days - 4/10/1999 vs San Jose
14. CJ Sapong - 22 years, 82 days - 3/19/2011 vs Chivas
15T. Jose Burciaga - 22 years, 223 days - 6/26/2004 vs San Jose
15T. Rauwshan McKenzie - 22 years, 223 days - 6/30/2009 vs Minnesota
17. Matt Taylor - 22 years, 246 days - 6/19/2004 vs New England
18. Vicente Figueroa - 22 years, 299 days - 8/16/2000 vs San Jose
19. Davy Arnaud - 22 years, 350 days - 6/7/2003 vs New York
20. Dom Dwyer - 23 years, 4 days - 8/3/2013 vs New York
On the list of oldest goal scorers, no players join either list this year. This coming year, late in the season, Claudio Bieler could join the list though.
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 vs Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 5 days - 4/18/2001 vs Miami
3. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 vs DC
4. Paul Rideout - 34 years, 2 days - 8/16/1998 vs Columbus
5. Julio Cesar - 33 years, 211 days - 6/16/2012 vs Toronto
6. Josh Wolff - 33 years, 209 days - 9/22/2010 vs Houston
7. Jimmy Conrad - 33 years, 197 days - 8/28/2010 vs LA
8. Peter Vermes - 33 years, 188 days - 5/27/2000 vs Tampa
9. Kerry Zavagnin - 33 years, 27 days - 7/29/2007 vs Chivas USA
10. Mark Santel - 33 years, 24 days - 7/29/2001 vs New England
11. Roy Lassiter - 33 years, 183 days - 9/8/2001 vs San Jose
12. Alex Bunbury - 32 years, 57 days - 8/14/1999 vs New York
13. Diego Gutierrez - 31 years, 320 days - 9/18/2004 vs San Jose
14. Birahim Diop - 31 years, 258 days - 10/23/2010 vs San Jose
15. Santiago Hirsig - 31 years, 247 days - 9/16/2009 vs Dallas
16. Omar Bravo - 31 years, 204 days - 9/23/2011 vs Philadelphia
17. Frank Klopas - 31 years, 5 days - 9/6/1997 vs Colorado
18. Sasha Victorine - 30 years, 188 days - 8/9/2008 vs Chivas USA
19. Dave van den Bergh - 30 years, 160 days - 10/14/2006 vs New York
20. Miklos Molnar - 30 years, 152 days - 9/9/2000 vs Tampa
1. Preki - 42 years, 113 days - 10/15/2005 vs Dallas
2. Mo Johnston - 38 years, 5 days - 4/18/2001 vs Miami
3. Claudio Lopez - 35 years, 99 days - 10/24/2009 vs DC
4. Paul Rideout - 34 years, 2 days - 8/16/1998 vs Columbus
5. Julio Cesar - 33 years, 211 days - 6/16/2012 vs Toronto
6. Josh Wolff - 33 years, 209 days - 9/22/2010 vs Houston
7. Jimmy Conrad - 33 years, 197 days - 8/28/2010 vs LA
8. Peter Vermes - 33 years, 188 days - 5/27/2000 vs Tampa
9. Kerry Zavagnin - 33 years, 27 days - 7/29/2007 vs Chivas USA
10. Mark Santel - 33 years, 24 days - 7/29/2001 vs New England
11. Roy Lassiter - 32 years, 222 days - 10/17/2001 vs Barcelona
12. Alex Bunbury - 32 years, 57 days - 8/14/1999 vs New York
13. Diego Gutierrez - 31 years, 320 days - 9/18/2004 vs San Jose
14. Birahim Diop - 31 years, 258 days - 10/23/2010 vs San Jose
15. Santiago Hirsig - 31 years, 247 days - 9/16/2009 vs Dallas
16. Mike Burns - 31 years, 245 days - 3/16/2001 vs W Connection
17. Omar Bravo - 31 years, 204 days - 9/23/2011 vs Philadelphia
18. Frank Klopas - 31 years, 5 days - 9/6/1997 vs Colorado
19T. Sasha Victorine - 30 years, 188 days - 8/9/2008 vs Chivas USA
19T. Miklos Molnar - 30 years, 188 days - 10/15/2000 vs Chicago
Friday, January 24, 2014
Comets Win Big Over the Ambush
The Comets got themselves a record win tonight at the Independence Events Center against cross state rivals, St. Louis. The Comets set a team record for the largest margin of victory, topping the Ambush by 24 points, winning 26-2.
The Ambush took the lead just a minute and twenty seconds into the game as Kory Dowell fired a shot past Danny Waltman to give the Ambush what would be their only lead and only goal of the game. The Comets dominated much of the first quarter but had to wait until just over nine minutes in before finding the net. Stefan St. Louis set up the goal by racing down into the corner before firing in a cross that bounced around for a second in the box before Brian Harris stuck out a knee and knocked it towards goal where it bounced off the post, an Ambush defender and in to get the Comets level. With just over a minute left, the Comets grabbed the lead. St. Louis received the ball at the yellow line, was able to cut inside his defender and got off a shot that surprised Jeff Richey in the Ambush net as he was frozen and the Comets went up 4-2.
The second quarter saw the Comets extend their lead as Leo Gibson dribbled across the top of the box before firing pass Richey to make it 6-2 just over five minutes in. The Comets dominated the rest of the quarter but didn't extend their lead until late in the quarter went Gibson turned provider, firing a ball to the ball post, where Vahid Assadpour had beaten his defender and tapped in to make it 8-2 at half time.
The third quarter saw the Comets really pile on. Just 13 seconds in they added another goal. Ramone Palmer won the ball and then turned his defender around before firing past Richey to make it 10-2. As the quarter went on the Comets got what was basically back to back 5 on 4 advantages. They didn't take advantage of the first one, but the second one they did as Gibson again found Assadpour for his second of the night to make it 12-2. Less than a minute later, Lucas Rodriguez got in on the scoring. After a Brian Perez shot was hit into the glass above the goal, Rodriguez beat everyone to the ball and headed it past Richey and into the net to give the Comets a 12 point lead. Later in the half, the Comets found themselves down a man, but still were able to find the net, not once but twice. As the Ambush pushed the game up a man, the Comets struck on the counter. First on a long distribution by Danny Waltman, he found Harris, who took a touch and fired a rocket into the net to make it 16-2. Still short handed the Comets again struck on the break, and again it was through Harris. This time, Gibson won the ball and played the ball through to an on rushing Harris who touched the ball past Richey and into the net for his hattrick.
The fourth quarter saw the Comets extend their lead even further. Gibson picked up his fourth assist of the game as he set up St. Louis with his second of the game just before the 5 minute mark to make it 20-2. Just after the half way mark in the quarter, Alex Megson got on the scorers sheet, turning in a back post cross by Coady Andrews to give the Comets a 20 point lead. St. Louis made it a set of hattricks for Missouri on the night as he finished off a chance from Andre Braithwaite with a shot through Richey's five hole to make it 24-2. Andrews closed out the scoring after a long pass from Byron Alvarez, Andrews slid the ball into the net to make it 26-2. The Comets were able to coast the rest of the way as the Ambush found themselves down a man for most of the last two and a half minutes. The 24 point margin of victory is a record for the reborn Comets, topping a 21 point win in 2012. At the end of the night, just two of the Comets players who played tonight (Robert Palmer and Stefan Stokic) finished without at least a point. The win also clinched the season series against St. Louis with two games left as the Comets are 4-0 this season against the Ambush.
The Ambush took the lead just a minute and twenty seconds into the game as Kory Dowell fired a shot past Danny Waltman to give the Ambush what would be their only lead and only goal of the game. The Comets dominated much of the first quarter but had to wait until just over nine minutes in before finding the net. Stefan St. Louis set up the goal by racing down into the corner before firing in a cross that bounced around for a second in the box before Brian Harris stuck out a knee and knocked it towards goal where it bounced off the post, an Ambush defender and in to get the Comets level. With just over a minute left, the Comets grabbed the lead. St. Louis received the ball at the yellow line, was able to cut inside his defender and got off a shot that surprised Jeff Richey in the Ambush net as he was frozen and the Comets went up 4-2.
The second quarter saw the Comets extend their lead as Leo Gibson dribbled across the top of the box before firing pass Richey to make it 6-2 just over five minutes in. The Comets dominated the rest of the quarter but didn't extend their lead until late in the quarter went Gibson turned provider, firing a ball to the ball post, where Vahid Assadpour had beaten his defender and tapped in to make it 8-2 at half time.
The third quarter saw the Comets really pile on. Just 13 seconds in they added another goal. Ramone Palmer won the ball and then turned his defender around before firing past Richey to make it 10-2. As the quarter went on the Comets got what was basically back to back 5 on 4 advantages. They didn't take advantage of the first one, but the second one they did as Gibson again found Assadpour for his second of the night to make it 12-2. Less than a minute later, Lucas Rodriguez got in on the scoring. After a Brian Perez shot was hit into the glass above the goal, Rodriguez beat everyone to the ball and headed it past Richey and into the net to give the Comets a 12 point lead. Later in the half, the Comets found themselves down a man, but still were able to find the net, not once but twice. As the Ambush pushed the game up a man, the Comets struck on the counter. First on a long distribution by Danny Waltman, he found Harris, who took a touch and fired a rocket into the net to make it 16-2. Still short handed the Comets again struck on the break, and again it was through Harris. This time, Gibson won the ball and played the ball through to an on rushing Harris who touched the ball past Richey and into the net for his hattrick.
The fourth quarter saw the Comets extend their lead even further. Gibson picked up his fourth assist of the game as he set up St. Louis with his second of the game just before the 5 minute mark to make it 20-2. Just after the half way mark in the quarter, Alex Megson got on the scorers sheet, turning in a back post cross by Coady Andrews to give the Comets a 20 point lead. St. Louis made it a set of hattricks for Missouri on the night as he finished off a chance from Andre Braithwaite with a shot through Richey's five hole to make it 24-2. Andrews closed out the scoring after a long pass from Byron Alvarez, Andrews slid the ball into the net to make it 26-2. The Comets were able to coast the rest of the way as the Ambush found themselves down a man for most of the last two and a half minutes. The 24 point margin of victory is a record for the reborn Comets, topping a 21 point win in 2012. At the end of the night, just two of the Comets players who played tonight (Robert Palmer and Stefan Stokic) finished without at least a point. The win also clinched the season series against St. Louis with two games left as the Comets are 4-0 this season against the Ambush.
Besler, Feilhaber, Zusi to Remain with US Team
Today US Soccer announced that 22 players from the recent 26 man camp will stick around for next Saturday's friendly against South Korea. Of KC's five representatives, three will be remaining with the US team. Matt Besler, Benny Feilhaber, and Graham Zusi will be the three Sporting representatives available for the game.
Besler gets to work on forming his partnership with Omar Gonzalez who right now appears to be the team that will anchor the center of defense for the US in Brazil. Feilhaber meanwhile gets the chance to continue to impress and earn his second cap while a member of Sporting KC. His first cap came last year at Camp Cupcake. Zusi will get to continue to push for inclusion on the national team in Brazil and fight for a starting spot.
That means that Sporting's outside backs, Chance Myers and Seth Sinovic will not be continuing with the team and have been "released to their clubs." The interesting part of that is in the release that Sporting put out about the moves by US Soccer, Myers' name is listed nowhere. The release makes mention to Sinovic being released to join the team in Arizona, but the out of contract Myers is not listed.
It's not a huge surprise with him out of contract, but it's still a bit of one to not see his name listed at all in the release. Word on Twitter today is that the big hold up in the deal is money. Myers is also apparently exploring options in Scandinavia and Germany.
Sporting Turn Down Juventus Bid for Palmer-Brown
Well this is surprising news to wake up to this morning. According to Grant Wahl over at Sports Illustrated, Sporting KC turned down an approach by Italian giants, Juventus for home grown defender, Erik Palmer-Brown.
Surprised may be a bit of an understatement for me when reading this. Not that I doubt Palmer-Brown's talent, the 16 year old has spent time with both the U18 and U20 national teams this offseason, so he clearly has talent. It's just not every day that you get a $1 million bid for an MLS player, let alone a teenager.
I've already seen a number of people say that Sporting should have taken the deal because there's no guarantee that Palmer-Brown will be worth it in the future.
On the other hand I completely understand Sporting wanting to keep the defender. Another local talent that the team has brought up, a US youth international, someone that the team could build around for the future. Or if he has continued success for the US youth teams, the fee that KC could command for him could be higher than $1 million.
Of course it may not all be on Sporting rejecting the bid. Palmer-Brown may not want to leave for Europe at this time. Either way this news is surprising for all the right reasons in my opinion. KC is developing talent that is good enough to catch the eye of big European clubs, but at the same time is wanting to keep the player here to help the team.
UPDATE
Word out of Italy tonight appears that there is a deal done between Sporting and Juventus. The deal would see Palmer-Brown stay with Sporting until he turns 18 (without an EU passport he can't transfer to a European club until 18). Once he turns 18 he would move to the "Old Lady." That article though appears to show that the transfer fee would be $250,000, quite a bit lower than the $1 million that was quoted by Wahl in the original article.
I've never seen Palmer-Brown play, but I'm very interested to see how this plays out this year. I'll be interested to see if he stays in KC and gets on the bench and potentially plays in some USOC games. Or if he goes to Oklahoma City and plays on loan with the Energy this year.
Surprised may be a bit of an understatement for me when reading this. Not that I doubt Palmer-Brown's talent, the 16 year old has spent time with both the U18 and U20 national teams this offseason, so he clearly has talent. It's just not every day that you get a $1 million bid for an MLS player, let alone a teenager.
I've already seen a number of people say that Sporting should have taken the deal because there's no guarantee that Palmer-Brown will be worth it in the future.
On the other hand I completely understand Sporting wanting to keep the defender. Another local talent that the team has brought up, a US youth international, someone that the team could build around for the future. Or if he has continued success for the US youth teams, the fee that KC could command for him could be higher than $1 million.
Of course it may not all be on Sporting rejecting the bid. Palmer-Brown may not want to leave for Europe at this time. Either way this news is surprising for all the right reasons in my opinion. KC is developing talent that is good enough to catch the eye of big European clubs, but at the same time is wanting to keep the player here to help the team.
UPDATE
Word out of Italy tonight appears that there is a deal done between Sporting and Juventus. The deal would see Palmer-Brown stay with Sporting until he turns 18 (without an EU passport he can't transfer to a European club until 18). Once he turns 18 he would move to the "Old Lady." That article though appears to show that the transfer fee would be $250,000, quite a bit lower than the $1 million that was quoted by Wahl in the original article.
I've never seen Palmer-Brown play, but I'm very interested to see how this plays out this year. I'll be interested to see if he stays in KC and gets on the bench and potentially plays in some USOC games. Or if he goes to Oklahoma City and plays on loan with the Energy this year.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Roster News and Rumors Ahead of Start of Preseason
With preseason set to kick off tomorrow for Sporting KC, there's some more roster news that is coming out about players on the roster and players that could be coming in.
Myers Contract
First the one that's been the big talking point, and that's the status of out of contract defender, Chance Myers. Last night on the Sporting KC show, Peter Vermes talked about a number of topics, one of which was the status of Myers. Vermes made clear that the team has made Myers a contract offer that Vermes calls "fair" and that it's in the hands of Myers and his agent. The quote though gets a little questioning about his return when Vermes starts to discuss players that have moved on while discussing Myers. It gives the impression, at least a little bit that people might want to consider the possibility that Myers may not be returning to KC in the 2014 season. We'll see if a deal gets done that keeps Myers here, or if we start to see a competition between the likes of Kevin Ellis, Mechack Jerome, and others for the right back position.
Another midfielder?
In the same interview, Vermes discusses the middle of the field and potential upgrades. He talks about the fact that the team drafted two players (Alex Martinez and Reinaldo Brenes) who can play in the middle of midfield. He also mentioned that the team will probably be adding another player there in the coming weeks. The midfield is an area that a number of people felt KC could stand to improve. While Paulo Nagamura had a fantastic run in the playoffs, he missed a number of games this year, playing in only 17. Since 2006, the most games in a season he's played is 27 and turns 31 this year. Getting another guy that can play his box to box role could be a big plus for KC.
Bieler returning
Another topic of discussion this offseason has been the future of Claudio Bieler in Kansas City. Bieler's future had been uncertain for most of the second half of the season as his minutes dropped dramatically down the stretch. He was limited to only a handful of starts. After the season rumors came out that he was looking to leave the club, with clubs in Argentina and Ecuador interested. But the above Tweet would seem to show that Bieler is returning for the 2014 season, at least the start.
Sporting signing Don Anding?
You're probably saying "who?" to the above question. Don Anding was a second round pick for the Philadelphia Union in the 2013 MLS Superdraft in the second round. The defender/forward played just one league game for the Union last year, playing seven on loan with Harrisburg. Reports today from Philadelphia is that Sporting is signing him for the league minimum.
For me it's odd that KC would be signing Anding outright to a contract. Based on his experience playing with the Union and Islanders I don't see him as the type of player KC would just sign. Bringing in as a trialist? Absolutely, especially if Myers does not re-sign with the team. He could provide more depth at the outside back position. But to sign him straight up before camp, with guys like Ellis, Jerome, and Josh Gardner already behind starters Myers and Seth Sinovic doesn't make a whole lot of sense.
Myers Contract
First the one that's been the big talking point, and that's the status of out of contract defender, Chance Myers. Last night on the Sporting KC show, Peter Vermes talked about a number of topics, one of which was the status of Myers. Vermes made clear that the team has made Myers a contract offer that Vermes calls "fair" and that it's in the hands of Myers and his agent. The quote though gets a little questioning about his return when Vermes starts to discuss players that have moved on while discussing Myers. It gives the impression, at least a little bit that people might want to consider the possibility that Myers may not be returning to KC in the 2014 season. We'll see if a deal gets done that keeps Myers here, or if we start to see a competition between the likes of Kevin Ellis, Mechack Jerome, and others for the right back position.
Another midfielder?
In the same interview, Vermes discusses the middle of the field and potential upgrades. He talks about the fact that the team drafted two players (Alex Martinez and Reinaldo Brenes) who can play in the middle of midfield. He also mentioned that the team will probably be adding another player there in the coming weeks. The midfield is an area that a number of people felt KC could stand to improve. While Paulo Nagamura had a fantastic run in the playoffs, he missed a number of games this year, playing in only 17. Since 2006, the most games in a season he's played is 27 and turns 31 this year. Getting another guy that can play his box to box role could be a big plus for KC.
Bieler returning
#SKC | Argentine FW CLAUDIO BIELER traveled to USA from Buenos Aires last night to join #SportingKC Pre-Season | #MLS
— Emmanuel Quispe (@emaquix) January 23, 2014
Another topic of discussion this offseason has been the future of Claudio Bieler in Kansas City. Bieler's future had been uncertain for most of the second half of the season as his minutes dropped dramatically down the stretch. He was limited to only a handful of starts. After the season rumors came out that he was looking to leave the club, with clubs in Argentina and Ecuador interested. But the above Tweet would seem to show that Bieler is returning for the 2014 season, at least the start.
Sporting signing Don Anding?
You're probably saying "who?" to the above question. Don Anding was a second round pick for the Philadelphia Union in the 2013 MLS Superdraft in the second round. The defender/forward played just one league game for the Union last year, playing seven on loan with Harrisburg. Reports today from Philadelphia is that Sporting is signing him for the league minimum.
For me it's odd that KC would be signing Anding outright to a contract. Based on his experience playing with the Union and Islanders I don't see him as the type of player KC would just sign. Bringing in as a trialist? Absolutely, especially if Myers does not re-sign with the team. He could provide more depth at the outside back position. But to sign him straight up before camp, with guys like Ellis, Jerome, and Josh Gardner already behind starters Myers and Seth Sinovic doesn't make a whole lot of sense.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Five Former KC Players Up for Hall of Fame - Former SKC Wizards Update
US Soccer has released ballots for this year's hall of fame induction. On the two ballots (players and veterans) there are a combined five former Kansas City players that are eligible for selection. On the players ballot there are two players, former player and assistant coach, Chris Henderson, and former another former midfielder, Chris Klein is also available in his first year of eligibility. On the veterans ballot there are three players, Mike Burns, Frank Klopas, and Mike Sorber. All five of the players are all currently, or have recently been in coaching or MLS front office position since their retirement as a player.
In other news, former defender Yann Songo'o has a new club, at least temporarily. Songo'o has left Blackburn, going on loan to SPL side, Ross County for the rest of the season. Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Ivan Trujillo
Michael Thomas
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
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
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Played in Baltimore's 14-2 win over St. Louis. Scored a goal in Baltimore's 9-8 loss to Syracuse.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Did not dress in Charleroi's 2-0 win over Oh Leuven.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Chivas' 1-1 draw with Veracruz. Did not dress in Chivas' 1-0 Copa Mexico win over Universidad Guadalajara.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Lost 1-0 to Veracruz II.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes in Bengaluru's 1-1 draw with Rangdajied. Started and played 90 minutes in Bengaluru's 2-0 loss to East Bengal.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - No game until 1/24
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Did not play in either of W Connection's games.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Next game 1/24
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Came off the bench and played 10 minutes in Wigan's 3-0 loss to Doncaster.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Tijuana's 2-1 loss to Pachuca.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Started and played 80 minutes in Boavista's 1-1 draw with Vasco da Gama. Did not dress in Boavista's 1-0 win over Madureira.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game until 2/1
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Came off the bench and played 2 minutes in Middlesbrough's 1-0 win over Charlton.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Offseason.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game until 2/2
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game til March.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No games until February.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Offseason.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - Started and played 90 minutes in Ross County's 3-0 win over Dundee United.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Offseason.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - No game until 1/25.
In other news, former defender Yann Songo'o has a new club, at least temporarily. Songo'o has left Blackburn, going on loan to SPL side, Ross County for the rest of the season. Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Ivan Trujillo
Michael Thomas
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
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
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Played in Baltimore's 14-2 win over St. Louis. Scored a goal in Baltimore's 9-8 loss to Syracuse.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - Did not dress in Charleroi's 2-0 win over Oh Leuven.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Chivas' 1-1 draw with Veracruz. Did not dress in Chivas' 1-0 Copa Mexico win over Universidad Guadalajara.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Lost 1-0 to Veracruz II.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes in Bengaluru's 1-1 draw with Rangdajied. Started and played 90 minutes in Bengaluru's 2-0 loss to East Bengal.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - No game until 1/24
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Did not play in either of W Connection's games.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Next game 1/24
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Came off the bench and played 10 minutes in Wigan's 3-0 loss to Doncaster.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Tijuana's 2-1 loss to Pachuca.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Started and played 80 minutes in Boavista's 1-1 draw with Vasco da Gama. Did not dress in Boavista's 1-0 win over Madureira.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game until 2/1
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Came off the bench and played 2 minutes in Middlesbrough's 1-0 win over Charlton.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Offseason.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game until 2/2
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game til March.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No games until February.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Offseason.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - Started and played 90 minutes in Ross County's 3-0 win over Dundee United.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Offseason.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - No game until 1/25.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
A Look at KC's Roster
Preseason is starting on Friday for Sporting KC. Just 48 days after Jimmy Nielsen lifted MLS Cup, Sporting KC players will be back at Swope Park taking their entry physicals for the 2014 season.
With that we can already begin to speculate on the roster spots that are currently filled, and those that are up for grabs in preseason.
First let's take a look at who is under contract:
Goalkeepers (3): Andy Gruenebaum, Jon Kempin, Eric Kronberg
Defenders (8): Matt Besler, Aurelien Collin, Kevin Ellis, Josh Gardner, Mechack Jerome, Ike Opara, Erik Palmer-Brown, Seth Sinovic.
Midfielder (10): Christian Duke, Benny Feilhaber, Peterson Joseph, Mikey Lopez, Jimmy Medranda, Paulo Nagamura, Lawrence Olum, Oriol Rosell, Sal Zizzo, Graham Zusi
Forwards (6): Claudio Bieler, Teal Bunbury, Dom Dwyer, Jacob Peterson, Soony Saad, CJ Sapong
So that's a total of 27 players under contract for the 2014 season.
Before we even talk about the players drafted, let's talk about the players who are here and not here.
First, missing from the list is Chance Myers. Sporting KC's starting right back is out of contract and we're waiting to hear if he'll be back or not. When Charles Gooch at the Star posted a question about re-signing Myers, Heineman responded to the question "if he wants to." In the preview for the draft on Thursday, it was mentioned that Myers was "flirting with Perennial Champions League participants Rosenborg." Since then, I have searched and been able to find anything else, including the Norweigen press about a potential move for Myers.
Personally I think Myers will end up re-signing, which would bump Kansas City up to 28 rostered players.
That's not the only potential move within the current roster that could be happening though. Another potential move within the roster is on loan midfielder, Jimmy Medranda. Medranda had been on loan to KC from Colombian side, Deportivo Pereira. The Colombian club is already in preseason for their upcoming season. In a preseason game on the 15th, Medranda started for the second division side. Him playing in that game on the surface would seem to indicate that he won't be coming back to KC.
That would drop KC back to 27 rostered players.
KC already has the MLS rights to four more players now after the draft. Adnan Gabeljic, Peter Schmetz, Alex Martinez, and Reinaldo Brenes will all be looking to earn a spot on the roster when preseason starts.
Of course the three open spots may not go to any of those four. Heineman likes to continue to drop hints of a signing coming in. That player could take a roster spot.
There's also the chance that some of the 27 players on the roster won't make the final roster. For example there was the information that Jacole Turner, the former Sporting junior goalkeeper, would be returning to KC. If he's brought in as even a trialist, there is the outside chance that he could grab a spot.
There's also the questions surrounding whether Claudio Bieler will be back. With Bieler's playing time dropping late in the season a number of questions came up about whether Bieler would be back with KC. Rumors of him returning to Ecuador or Argentina had cropped up early in the offseason.
So on the surface there still are a number of spots left open on KC's roster for KC's draft picks to get. We'll see how many of those four make the roster, and probably, spend time in Oklahoma City or Orlando this season.
With that we can already begin to speculate on the roster spots that are currently filled, and those that are up for grabs in preseason.
First let's take a look at who is under contract:
Goalkeepers (3): Andy Gruenebaum, Jon Kempin, Eric Kronberg
Defenders (8): Matt Besler, Aurelien Collin, Kevin Ellis, Josh Gardner, Mechack Jerome, Ike Opara, Erik Palmer-Brown, Seth Sinovic.
Midfielder (10): Christian Duke, Benny Feilhaber, Peterson Joseph, Mikey Lopez, Jimmy Medranda, Paulo Nagamura, Lawrence Olum, Oriol Rosell, Sal Zizzo, Graham Zusi
Forwards (6): Claudio Bieler, Teal Bunbury, Dom Dwyer, Jacob Peterson, Soony Saad, CJ Sapong
So that's a total of 27 players under contract for the 2014 season.
Before we even talk about the players drafted, let's talk about the players who are here and not here.
First, missing from the list is Chance Myers. Sporting KC's starting right back is out of contract and we're waiting to hear if he'll be back or not. When Charles Gooch at the Star posted a question about re-signing Myers, Heineman responded to the question "if he wants to." In the preview for the draft on Thursday, it was mentioned that Myers was "flirting with Perennial Champions League participants Rosenborg." Since then, I have searched and been able to find anything else, including the Norweigen press about a potential move for Myers.
Personally I think Myers will end up re-signing, which would bump Kansas City up to 28 rostered players.
That's not the only potential move within the current roster that could be happening though. Another potential move within the roster is on loan midfielder, Jimmy Medranda. Medranda had been on loan to KC from Colombian side, Deportivo Pereira. The Colombian club is already in preseason for their upcoming season. In a preseason game on the 15th, Medranda started for the second division side. Him playing in that game on the surface would seem to indicate that he won't be coming back to KC.
That would drop KC back to 27 rostered players.
KC already has the MLS rights to four more players now after the draft. Adnan Gabeljic, Peter Schmetz, Alex Martinez, and Reinaldo Brenes will all be looking to earn a spot on the roster when preseason starts.
Of course the three open spots may not go to any of those four. Heineman likes to continue to drop hints of a signing coming in. That player could take a roster spot.
There's also the chance that some of the 27 players on the roster won't make the final roster. For example there was the information that Jacole Turner, the former Sporting junior goalkeeper, would be returning to KC. If he's brought in as even a trialist, there is the outside chance that he could grab a spot.
There's also the questions surrounding whether Claudio Bieler will be back. With Bieler's playing time dropping late in the season a number of questions came up about whether Bieler would be back with KC. Rumors of him returning to Ecuador or Argentina had cropped up early in the offseason.
So on the surface there still are a number of spots left open on KC's roster for KC's draft picks to get. We'll see how many of those four make the roster, and probably, spend time in Oklahoma City or Orlando this season.
Sporting KC Add Three More in Draft
Sporting KC added three more players fighting for roster spots today in the third and fourth round of the MLS Superdraft. KC picked up players in defense, midfield, and up top, all with an international feel as all three players were born outside of the United States.
With their first pick, the third of the round and 41st overall, Sporting KC selected Peter Schmetz, a center back from the University of California-Santa Barbara. The German is big, 6'6" and according to reports is able to use that size in the air. A lot of the scouting report though talks about his lack of pace.He does appear to be a little injury prone as he has struggled with injuries the last two years, playing just eight games in 2012 and missing the final five games of the 2013 season with a knee injury.
With their second pick of the third round, the 57th overall pick, KC selected Alex Martinez from North Carolina State. The midfielder from Uruguay is the brother of Enzo Martinez, a former midfielder for Real Salt Lake, and Generation Adidas signing who was waived earlier this offseason. Scouts seem to like his 1v1 abilities, but some question his defensive efforts.
With their fourth round pick Sporting selected forward Reinaldo Brenes from Akron. The Costa Rican was the leading scorer for the Zips the last two years. He's appeared for the Costa Rican U17 and U18 teams as well. According to the breakdown on MLS, he'll fit in well with Peter Vermes' team, as there are apparently no "light" training sessions for him.
KC has the international spots that would allow them to accommodate any of the players, but don't have all the roster spots required for it. As Vermes put it, “It’s going to be hard for anyone to make our team at this point.”
All of these guys would be expected to be depth signings but all three will now be headed to Kansas City for preseason, which begins on Friday.
With their first pick, the third of the round and 41st overall, Sporting KC selected Peter Schmetz, a center back from the University of California-Santa Barbara. The German is big, 6'6" and according to reports is able to use that size in the air. A lot of the scouting report though talks about his lack of pace.He does appear to be a little injury prone as he has struggled with injuries the last two years, playing just eight games in 2012 and missing the final five games of the 2013 season with a knee injury.
With their second pick of the third round, the 57th overall pick, KC selected Alex Martinez from North Carolina State. The midfielder from Uruguay is the brother of Enzo Martinez, a former midfielder for Real Salt Lake, and Generation Adidas signing who was waived earlier this offseason. Scouts seem to like his 1v1 abilities, but some question his defensive efforts.
With their fourth round pick Sporting selected forward Reinaldo Brenes from Akron. The Costa Rican was the leading scorer for the Zips the last two years. He's appeared for the Costa Rican U17 and U18 teams as well. According to the breakdown on MLS, he'll fit in well with Peter Vermes' team, as there are apparently no "light" training sessions for him.
KC has the international spots that would allow them to accommodate any of the players, but don't have all the roster spots required for it. As Vermes put it, “It’s going to be hard for anyone to make our team at this point.”
All of these guys would be expected to be depth signings but all three will now be headed to Kansas City for preseason, which begins on Friday.
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Top Goal Scorers in All Competitions
Another statistical update, the list of top 20 goal scorers in all competitions. First here's the list as it's gone through the years.
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
One newcomer to the list this year and a new player into the top 10 as well.
1. Preki - 81 (71 league, 8 playoff, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-)
2. Davy Arnaud - 52 (43 league, 4 playoff, 5 open cup) (-)
3. Josh Wolff - 46 (43 league, 1 playoff, 2 open cup) (-)
4. Chris Klein - 43 (39 league, 3 playoff, 1 open cup) (-)
5. Kei Kamara - 41 (38 league 3 open cup) (-)
6. Mo Johnston - 32 (31 league, 1 playoff) (-)
7. Vitalis "Digital" Takawira - 31 (28 league, 2 playoff, 1 open cup) (-)
8. Scott Sealy - 30 (28 league, 2 open cup) (-)
9. CJ Sapong - 25 (18 league, 2 playoff, 5 open cup) (+2)
10. Teal Bunbury - 24 (19 league, 2 playoff, 3 open cup) (-1)
11. Mark Chung - 21 (20 league, 1 playoff) (-1)
12T. Chris Brown - 20 (15 league, 1 playoff, 1 open cup, 3 international) (-1)
12T. Igor Simutenkov - 20 (12 league, 3 playoff, 5 open cup) (-1)
14 - Graham Zusi - 19 (17 league, 2 open cup) (N/A) - Zusi makes his way onto this list as well for his 6 league goals.
15. Matt McKeon - 18 (13 league, 3 playoff, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-1)
16T. Miklos Molnar - 17 (12 league, 5 playoff) (-1)
16T. Eddie Johnson - 17 (17 league) (-1)
16T. Jimmy Conrad - 17 (17 league) (-1)
19T. Francisco Gomez - 16 (11 league, 2 playoff, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-1)
19T. Jose Burciaga Jr. - 15 (13 league, 1 playoff, 1 international) (-1)
19T. Sasha Victorine - 15 (13 league, 2 open cup) (-1)
19T. Claudio Lopez - 15 (13 league, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-1)
19T. Jack Jewsbury - 15 (14 league, 1 playoff) (-1)
Among the other current players there are a couple that could easily make it on the list in 2014. Aurelien Collin currently sits just one goal away from joining the list, while Claudio Bieler is just three goals away from joining.
Still active goal scorers.
Aurelien Collin - 14
Claudio Bieler - 12
Soony Saad - 9
Jacob Peterson - 6
Chance Myers - 4
Ike Opara - 4
Dom Dwyer - 3
Benny Feilhaber - 3
Matt Besler - 2
Paulo Nagamura - 2
Oriol Rosell - 2
Seth Sinovic - 2
Lawrence Olum - 1
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
One newcomer to the list this year and a new player into the top 10 as well.
1. Preki - 81 (71 league, 8 playoff, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-)
2. Davy Arnaud - 52 (43 league, 4 playoff, 5 open cup) (-)
3. Josh Wolff - 46 (43 league, 1 playoff, 2 open cup) (-)
4. Chris Klein - 43 (39 league, 3 playoff, 1 open cup) (-)
5. Kei Kamara - 41 (38 league 3 open cup) (-)
6. Mo Johnston - 32 (31 league, 1 playoff) (-)
7. Vitalis "Digital" Takawira - 31 (28 league, 2 playoff, 1 open cup) (-)
8. Scott Sealy - 30 (28 league, 2 open cup) (-)
9. CJ Sapong - 25 (18 league, 2 playoff, 5 open cup) (+2)
10. Teal Bunbury - 24 (19 league, 2 playoff, 3 open cup) (-1)
11. Mark Chung - 21 (20 league, 1 playoff) (-1)
12T. Chris Brown - 20 (15 league, 1 playoff, 1 open cup, 3 international) (-1)
12T. Igor Simutenkov - 20 (12 league, 3 playoff, 5 open cup) (-1)
14 - Graham Zusi - 19 (17 league, 2 open cup) (N/A) - Zusi makes his way onto this list as well for his 6 league goals.
15. Matt McKeon - 18 (13 league, 3 playoff, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-1)
16T. Miklos Molnar - 17 (12 league, 5 playoff) (-1)
16T. Eddie Johnson - 17 (17 league) (-1)
16T. Jimmy Conrad - 17 (17 league) (-1)
19T. Francisco Gomez - 16 (11 league, 2 playoff, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-1)
19T. Jose Burciaga Jr. - 15 (13 league, 1 playoff, 1 international) (-1)
19T. Sasha Victorine - 15 (13 league, 2 open cup) (-1)
19T. Claudio Lopez - 15 (13 league, 1 open cup, 1 international) (-1)
19T. Jack Jewsbury - 15 (14 league, 1 playoff) (-1)
Among the other current players there are a couple that could easily make it on the list in 2014. Aurelien Collin currently sits just one goal away from joining the list, while Claudio Bieler is just three goals away from joining.
Still active goal scorers.
Aurelien Collin - 14
Claudio Bieler - 12
Soony Saad - 9
Jacob Peterson - 6
Chance Myers - 4
Ike Opara - 4
Dom Dwyer - 3
Benny Feilhaber - 3
Matt Besler - 2
Paulo Nagamura - 2
Oriol Rosell - 2
Seth Sinovic - 2
Lawrence Olum - 1
Top League Scorers Through 2013
Another stat update for you. Here is the top goal scorers for Sporting
KC throughout their history. See the links below for previous years.
1996 - 1997 - 1998 - 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 - 2006 - 2007 - 2008 - 2009 - 2010 - 2011 - 2012
1. Preki - 71 (-)
2T. Josh Wolff - 43 (-)
2T. Davy Arnaud - 43 (-)
4. Chris Klein - 39 (-)
5. Kei Kamara - 38 (-)
6. Mo Johnston - 31 (-1)
7T. Digital Takawira - 28 (-)
7T. Scott Sealy - 28 (-)
9. Mark Chung - 20 (-)
10. Teal Bunbury - 19 (-)
11. CJ Sapong - 18 (+3)
12T. Eddie Johnson - 17 (-1)
12T. Jimmy Conrad - 17 (-1)
12T. Graham Zusi - 17 (N/A) - Zusi makes his way onto the list finishing the season tied for 12th place all time after scoring six goals in the 2013 regular season.
15. Chris Brown - 15 (-2)
16. Jack Jewsbury - 14 (-2)
17T. Matt McKeon - 13 (-1)
17T. Jose Burciaga Jr. - 13 (-1)
17T. Sasha Victorine - 13 (-1)
17T. Claudio Lopez - 13 (-1)
As for future additions to the list, Claudio Bieler is a very good candidate if he returns to the team next year, he is just three goals away from making the list. You also have the outside chance of Aurelien Collin making the list, but he'd need to score four goals to land himself on the list.
Active goal scorers.
Claudio Bieler - 10
Aurelien Collin - 9
Soony Saad - 5
Jacob Peterson - 4
Ike Opara - 3
Benny Feilhaber - 3
Matt Besler - 2
Oriol Rosell - 2
Chance Myers - 2
Dom Dwyer - 2
Paulo Nagamura - 1
Lawrence Olum - 1
1996 - 1997 - 1998 - 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 - 2006 - 2007 - 2008 - 2009 - 2010 - 2011 - 2012
1. Preki - 71 (-)
2T. Josh Wolff - 43 (-)
2T. Davy Arnaud - 43 (-)
4. Chris Klein - 39 (-)
5. Kei Kamara - 38 (-)
6. Mo Johnston - 31 (-1)
7T. Digital Takawira - 28 (-)
7T. Scott Sealy - 28 (-)
9. Mark Chung - 20 (-)
10. Teal Bunbury - 19 (-)
11. CJ Sapong - 18 (+3)
12T. Eddie Johnson - 17 (-1)
12T. Jimmy Conrad - 17 (-1)
12T. Graham Zusi - 17 (N/A) - Zusi makes his way onto the list finishing the season tied for 12th place all time after scoring six goals in the 2013 regular season.
15. Chris Brown - 15 (-2)
16. Jack Jewsbury - 14 (-2)
17T. Matt McKeon - 13 (-1)
17T. Jose Burciaga Jr. - 13 (-1)
17T. Sasha Victorine - 13 (-1)
17T. Claudio Lopez - 13 (-1)
As for future additions to the list, Claudio Bieler is a very good candidate if he returns to the team next year, he is just three goals away from making the list. You also have the outside chance of Aurelien Collin making the list, but he'd need to score four goals to land himself on the list.
Active goal scorers.
Claudio Bieler - 10
Aurelien Collin - 9
Soony Saad - 5
Jacob Peterson - 4
Ike Opara - 3
Benny Feilhaber - 3
Matt Besler - 2
Oriol Rosell - 2
Chance Myers - 2
Dom Dwyer - 2
Paulo Nagamura - 1
Lawrence Olum - 1
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Comets Split Series with Wave
From the Comets
One night after giving the Milwaukee Wave their worst defeat in team history, the Missouri Comets were unable to duplicate the result. This time in Milwaukee’s U.S. Cellular Arena, the Comets fell 16-4. Milwaukee’s Jonathan Greenfield had two goals, one from three-point distance to lead his team to the win.
The Comets are statistically the best offensive team in the Major Indoor Soccer League. They have scored first and scored often in the majority of their games. Tonight, the Milwaukee Wave set out to slow down the high-powered Missouri attack. After setting in a defensive shell for the first fourteen minutes of the opening quarter, the Wave broke out and capitalized on a Comets mistake with Luan Oliviera scoring the game’s first goal. Milwaukee’s Jonathan Greenfield had two in the second quarter to put the Comets down 7-0 at the half.
The Comets offense could not be stifled all night however. Robert Palmer scored from the left side of the goal four minutes into the second half to get the Comets on the board. A minute later, Ramone Palmer stole the ball and dribbled up the left side of the field, drawing the Wave defense towards him before passing the ball to Stefan St. Louis for a tap-in goal. The score cut the Comets deficit to 7-4 and seemed to give the team life as they headed towards the final quarter.
Unfortunately for the Comets, the Milwaukee Wave restart was able to score two goals in the first three minutes of the fourth quarter. Nicolas Perera and Ian Bennett scored to increase the Wave lead to 11-4.
Soon after, in a bizarre series of events, Comets goalkeeper Danny Waltman was issued two blue cards and faced a shootout and penalty kick. Waltman had been playing aggressive all night, as he pressed forward his shot was blocked and the Wave had an open path to goal. Waltman reached out to block the ball at midfield and was issued his first blue card. On the ensuing shootout attempt, Waltman came out of the box and tripped Guiliano Oliviero; earning his second blue card. Now with two players in the penalty box serving time, Waltman was unable stop the penalty kick.
As the Comets put in a sixth attacker, Ian Bennett broke the Missouri attack and added a three-point empty net goal to clinch the Wave’s win.
The Comets will return home to the Independence Events Center next Friday, January 24th at 7:35p.m. CT to take on the St. Louis Ambush. The Comets will be hosting their Annual Retro Night and will be honoring players of the Comets/Attack history. The team will be wearing special jerseys and auctioning them off following the game.
One night after giving the Milwaukee Wave their worst defeat in team history, the Missouri Comets were unable to duplicate the result. This time in Milwaukee’s U.S. Cellular Arena, the Comets fell 16-4. Milwaukee’s Jonathan Greenfield had two goals, one from three-point distance to lead his team to the win.
The Comets are statistically the best offensive team in the Major Indoor Soccer League. They have scored first and scored often in the majority of their games. Tonight, the Milwaukee Wave set out to slow down the high-powered Missouri attack. After setting in a defensive shell for the first fourteen minutes of the opening quarter, the Wave broke out and capitalized on a Comets mistake with Luan Oliviera scoring the game’s first goal. Milwaukee’s Jonathan Greenfield had two in the second quarter to put the Comets down 7-0 at the half.
The Comets offense could not be stifled all night however. Robert Palmer scored from the left side of the goal four minutes into the second half to get the Comets on the board. A minute later, Ramone Palmer stole the ball and dribbled up the left side of the field, drawing the Wave defense towards him before passing the ball to Stefan St. Louis for a tap-in goal. The score cut the Comets deficit to 7-4 and seemed to give the team life as they headed towards the final quarter.
Unfortunately for the Comets, the Milwaukee Wave restart was able to score two goals in the first three minutes of the fourth quarter. Nicolas Perera and Ian Bennett scored to increase the Wave lead to 11-4.
Soon after, in a bizarre series of events, Comets goalkeeper Danny Waltman was issued two blue cards and faced a shootout and penalty kick. Waltman had been playing aggressive all night, as he pressed forward his shot was blocked and the Wave had an open path to goal. Waltman reached out to block the ball at midfield and was issued his first blue card. On the ensuing shootout attempt, Waltman came out of the box and tripped Guiliano Oliviero; earning his second blue card. Now with two players in the penalty box serving time, Waltman was unable stop the penalty kick.
As the Comets put in a sixth attacker, Ian Bennett broke the Missouri attack and added a three-point empty net goal to clinch the Wave’s win.
The Comets will return home to the Independence Events Center next Friday, January 24th at 7:35p.m. CT to take on the St. Louis Ambush. The Comets will be hosting their Annual Retro Night and will be honoring players of the Comets/Attack history. The team will be wearing special jerseys and auctioning them off following the game.
Friday, January 17, 2014
Comets Pull Away From Wave Late
The Comets started a weekend series with the Milwaukee Wave on the right foot tonight at the Independence Events Center winning 22-4 over the Wave.
The Comets got an early power play opportunity as Vahid Assadpour was knocked into the board on a slide tackle. The Comets quickly took advantage as Assadpour and Lucas Rodriguez passed the ball around the three point line. Assadpour played the ball in to Leo Gibson who touched the ball back to Rodriguez. The Argentine cut inside and fired a shot into the far corner to give the Comets an early 2-0 lead. The Wave picked up the pressure and before the half way mark were level. A shot by JC Banks was saved by Danny Waltman, but palmed right into the path of Ian Bennett who chested the ball home to tie the game at 2-2. The Comets started to push the game again and were able to find another goal with five minutes left in the quarter. Gibson got the ball in the corner and fired a cross into the middle. It hit off of a Wave defender and went into the net restoring the lead at 4-2. The Wave tried to respond as the quarter was beginning to wear down, but it was the Comets that struck on the counter. Robert Palmer fed the ball to Assadpour who raced down the field. The Comets captain returned the ball to Palmer who played the ball across to Byron Alvarez who, unmarked beat Marcel Feenstra and made it 6-2 with just under 20 seconds left in the quarter.
Into the second, the Comets immediately got started. Brian Harris raced down the field and fired a shot from 3 point range that beat Feenstra. After review to make sure it was a 3 point goal and confirm that Alvarez didn't get a touch, the Comets were up 9-2. The Wave pushed the game for much of the rest of the quarter, but could not find a goal to cut the lead and the teams went into the half at 9-2.
The third quarter saw the Wave continue to push the game looking to find a way back into the game. Around the half way point both teams went down to 4 men as Robert Palmer picked up a blue card for an elbow, while the Wave's Carlos Munoz picked up a blue card for pushing in retaliation. On the 4v4 situation, the Wave controlled the play, keeping the Comets locked in their own end of the field. Finally the Wave got a goal as Marcio Leite fed the ball into the corner for Luan Oliveira who beat Waltman from a tight angle to make it 9-4. The Wave continued to push the game after the penalties expired continuing to look for a way to close the lead. With just over a minute left, the Comets broke out on the counter and earned a restart at the top of the arc. John Sosa took the restart and instead of going to his left to Assadpour as he has many times recently, he went to his right to Rodriguez who beat Feenstra to make it 11-4.
The fourth quarter saw the Comets willing to sit back some and let the Wave come at them, but didn't allow the Wave offense to really get going. As the half wore on the Comets started to get more possession and instead of pushing the game were able to hold possession and keep the Wave chasing. Just before the half way mark the Comets added to their lead. Gibson again received the ball in the corner. Wave goalkeeper Feenstra came to pressure, but Gibson squared it for Ramone Palmer in the middle of the field. Palmer got just a small touch on the ball, but it was enough to knock the ball between the legs of a Wave defender and it rolled into the empty net to make it 13-4. Shortly after that the Wave pulled Feenstra and went with Victor Quiroz in goal as the 6th attacker. The Wave controlled possession, as is expected keeping the Comets in their own end. The Comets didn't get many opportunities early on to find the empty net, but with just over 3 minutes left they finally did. A Gibson block got knocked into the path of Robert Palmer who took a touch over the yellow line and fired a shot that rolled into the empty net to make it 16-4. Shortly after another deflected clearance by Missouri fell to Harris who got past Quiroz and scored to make it 19-4. The evening was capped off by Rodriguez completing his hattrick with a neat chip past Quiroz after being fed by Assadpour. Rodriguez's goal curled around Quiroz and bounced into the net to make it 22-4.
The Comets got an early power play opportunity as Vahid Assadpour was knocked into the board on a slide tackle. The Comets quickly took advantage as Assadpour and Lucas Rodriguez passed the ball around the three point line. Assadpour played the ball in to Leo Gibson who touched the ball back to Rodriguez. The Argentine cut inside and fired a shot into the far corner to give the Comets an early 2-0 lead. The Wave picked up the pressure and before the half way mark were level. A shot by JC Banks was saved by Danny Waltman, but palmed right into the path of Ian Bennett who chested the ball home to tie the game at 2-2. The Comets started to push the game again and were able to find another goal with five minutes left in the quarter. Gibson got the ball in the corner and fired a cross into the middle. It hit off of a Wave defender and went into the net restoring the lead at 4-2. The Wave tried to respond as the quarter was beginning to wear down, but it was the Comets that struck on the counter. Robert Palmer fed the ball to Assadpour who raced down the field. The Comets captain returned the ball to Palmer who played the ball across to Byron Alvarez who, unmarked beat Marcel Feenstra and made it 6-2 with just under 20 seconds left in the quarter.
Into the second, the Comets immediately got started. Brian Harris raced down the field and fired a shot from 3 point range that beat Feenstra. After review to make sure it was a 3 point goal and confirm that Alvarez didn't get a touch, the Comets were up 9-2. The Wave pushed the game for much of the rest of the quarter, but could not find a goal to cut the lead and the teams went into the half at 9-2.
The third quarter saw the Wave continue to push the game looking to find a way back into the game. Around the half way point both teams went down to 4 men as Robert Palmer picked up a blue card for an elbow, while the Wave's Carlos Munoz picked up a blue card for pushing in retaliation. On the 4v4 situation, the Wave controlled the play, keeping the Comets locked in their own end of the field. Finally the Wave got a goal as Marcio Leite fed the ball into the corner for Luan Oliveira who beat Waltman from a tight angle to make it 9-4. The Wave continued to push the game after the penalties expired continuing to look for a way to close the lead. With just over a minute left, the Comets broke out on the counter and earned a restart at the top of the arc. John Sosa took the restart and instead of going to his left to Assadpour as he has many times recently, he went to his right to Rodriguez who beat Feenstra to make it 11-4.
The fourth quarter saw the Comets willing to sit back some and let the Wave come at them, but didn't allow the Wave offense to really get going. As the half wore on the Comets started to get more possession and instead of pushing the game were able to hold possession and keep the Wave chasing. Just before the half way mark the Comets added to their lead. Gibson again received the ball in the corner. Wave goalkeeper Feenstra came to pressure, but Gibson squared it for Ramone Palmer in the middle of the field. Palmer got just a small touch on the ball, but it was enough to knock the ball between the legs of a Wave defender and it rolled into the empty net to make it 13-4. Shortly after that the Wave pulled Feenstra and went with Victor Quiroz in goal as the 6th attacker. The Wave controlled possession, as is expected keeping the Comets in their own end. The Comets didn't get many opportunities early on to find the empty net, but with just over 3 minutes left they finally did. A Gibson block got knocked into the path of Robert Palmer who took a touch over the yellow line and fired a shot that rolled into the empty net to make it 16-4. Shortly after another deflected clearance by Missouri fell to Harris who got past Quiroz and scored to make it 19-4. The evening was capped off by Rodriguez completing his hattrick with a neat chip past Quiroz after being fed by Assadpour. Rodriguez's goal curled around Quiroz and bounced into the net to make it 22-4.
FCKC Draft Four Locals in NWSL Draft
FC Kansas City had themselves another solid NWSL draw today in Philadelphia. With a grand total of six picks, FCKC took four local players, two of which have played with the US team at the youth level.
In the first round, FC Kansas City picked Florida State defender, Kassey Kallman. Kallman was a Hermann Trophy Semifinalist she was also a member of the US U20 team that won the World Cup in 2012.
In the second round, FCKC went local and grabbed another player who spent time with the US youth national teams. Morgan Marlborough, a forward from Lee’s Summit attended Santa Clara and was selected with the 12th pick. At the 16th spot, the Blues grabbed a midfielder from defending champion, UCLA. Jenna Richmond is another player who was on the US U20 team that won the 2012 World Cup.
FCKC had the first two picks of the third round and went local with both of them. With the 19th pick, the Blues grabbed Frances Silva a forward from West Virginia, originally from Overland Park. The Hermann Trophy Semifinalist helped West Virginia win the Big 12 title at Swope Park this past season. With the 20th pick KC grabbed their third member of the US U20 World Cup winning squad, Mandy Laddish from Notre Dame via Lee’s Summit. The midfielder also played a big role in the Fightin’ Irish’s championship run a few
In the fourth round, FCKC stayed local and grabbed the sister of current Blues’ defender, Katie Kelly, Maegan Kelly. The younger Kelly also went to Marquette where she played midfield and forward scoring 10 goals and adding 8 assists her senior year.
I don’t know a ton about the women’s college game unfortunately, but from what I’ve read KC had themselves another successful draft. Vlatko Andonovski had made mention of his want to get more depth this year, feeling that had been the team’s downfall in 2013. This draft on paper looks like that will definitely provide it for the Blues.
In the first round, FC Kansas City picked Florida State defender, Kassey Kallman. Kallman was a Hermann Trophy Semifinalist she was also a member of the US U20 team that won the World Cup in 2012.
In the second round, FCKC went local and grabbed another player who spent time with the US youth national teams. Morgan Marlborough, a forward from Lee’s Summit attended Santa Clara and was selected with the 12th pick. At the 16th spot, the Blues grabbed a midfielder from defending champion, UCLA. Jenna Richmond is another player who was on the US U20 team that won the 2012 World Cup.
FCKC had the first two picks of the third round and went local with both of them. With the 19th pick, the Blues grabbed Frances Silva a forward from West Virginia, originally from Overland Park. The Hermann Trophy Semifinalist helped West Virginia win the Big 12 title at Swope Park this past season. With the 20th pick KC grabbed their third member of the US U20 World Cup winning squad, Mandy Laddish from Notre Dame via Lee’s Summit. The midfielder also played a big role in the Fightin’ Irish’s championship run a few
In the fourth round, FCKC stayed local and grabbed the sister of current Blues’ defender, Katie Kelly, Maegan Kelly. The younger Kelly also went to Marquette where she played midfield and forward scoring 10 goals and adding 8 assists her senior year.
I don’t know a ton about the women’s college game unfortunately, but from what I’ve read KC had themselves another successful draft. Vlatko Andonovski had made mention of his want to get more depth this year, feeling that had been the team’s downfall in 2013. This draft on paper looks like that will definitely provide it for the Blues.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Sporting KC Select Adnan Gabeljic in 2nd Round of MLS Superdraft
Peter Vermes likes his fowards, that's for certain. For the third time in the last four years, Sporting KC has used a first or second round pick on a forward. This year, Sporting KC selected Adnan Gabeljic out of the University of St. Louis.
The St. Louis native appeared in 69 games over his four year career for the Billikens, starting just nine. He scored 14 goals and added seven assists. He's got decent size being 6'3" and 200 pounds, which could help KC to have a bit more size in the middle of the foward line.
He will have some work cut out for him though with the number of forwards KC already has. Especially at the center forward position where KC already has the likes of Claudio Bieler, Teal Bunbury, and Dom Dwyer. But preseason begins in a little over a week so he'll get a chance to prove himself.
UPDATE
Gabeljic trained with Sporting KC recently, which would certainly give some reason as to why Sporting would have chosen the forward. And he has one thing that Peter Vermes loves, he's an athlete. During the combine he finished second in his 30 meter sprint and had the 10th best vertical jump. And we know how Vermes loves athleticism.
UPDATE
Gabeljic trained with Sporting KC recently, which would certainly give some reason as to why Sporting would have chosen the forward. And he has one thing that Peter Vermes loves, he's an athlete. During the combine he finished second in his 30 meter sprint and had the 10th best vertical jump. And we know how Vermes loves athleticism.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Single Season Minutes Played
Another statistical update, this time minutes played in a season. In 2013, Jimmy Nielsen tied his club record for minutes played with 3,060 for playing every minute.
1. Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 3060
2. Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 3060
3. Nick Garcia - 2000 - 2916
4. Peter Vermes - 2000 - 2916
5. Preki - 1996 - 2880
6. Bo Oshoniyi - 2005 - 2880
7. Matt Besler - 2011 - 2880
8. Mark Chung - 1997 - 2871
9. Kei Kamara - 2012 - 2871
10. Mark Chung - 1996 - 2847
In all competitions, a new record was hit as Seth Sinovic set a team record for minutes in a season with 3,733 played, topping the old record set by Nick Garcia and Peter Vermes during KC's 2000 MLS Cup winning season. In fact, KC added four players to the top 10 this year. Jimmy Nielsen, Oriol Rosell, and Aurelien Collin all joined the list this season.
1. Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 3733
2. Nick Garcia - 2000 - 3695
3. Peter Vermes - 2000 - 3695
4. Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 3630
5. Kerry Zavagnin - 2002 - 3606
6. Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 3570
7. Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 3553
8. Nick Garcia - 2002 - 3531
9. Aurelien Collin - 2013 - 3525
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 3522
1. Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 3060
2. Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 3060
3. Nick Garcia - 2000 - 2916
4. Peter Vermes - 2000 - 2916
5. Preki - 1996 - 2880
6. Bo Oshoniyi - 2005 - 2880
7. Matt Besler - 2011 - 2880
8. Mark Chung - 1997 - 2871
9. Kei Kamara - 2012 - 2871
10. Mark Chung - 1996 - 2847
In all competitions, a new record was hit as Seth Sinovic set a team record for minutes in a season with 3,733 played, topping the old record set by Nick Garcia and Peter Vermes during KC's 2000 MLS Cup winning season. In fact, KC added four players to the top 10 this year. Jimmy Nielsen, Oriol Rosell, and Aurelien Collin all joined the list this season.
1. Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 3733
2. Nick Garcia - 2000 - 3695
3. Peter Vermes - 2000 - 3695
4. Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 3630
5. Kerry Zavagnin - 2002 - 3606
6. Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 3570
7. Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 3553
8. Nick Garcia - 2002 - 3531
9. Aurelien Collin - 2013 - 3525
10. Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 3522
Kamara Returns to Action - Former SKC Wizards Update
Kei Kamara has been missing action for Middlesbrough for the last month or so with a knee injury. Today he returned to action, playing with Boro's U-21 team against Arsenal. In the game Kamara scored twice as Middlesbrough won 3-1 over the Gunners. Also in England, former defender, Yann Songo'o looks to be making a loan move during the current window. Songo'o has already turned down a loan move to Ross County in Scotland because he didn't want to go that far north. Now he's also been linked with a loan to another Scottish club, Kilmarnock. And while one of KC's greatest goalkeepers is getting into his new position in Oklahoma, another, Tony Meola is a candidate for another pro coaching job, he's a candidate for Jacksonville's NASL team.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Ivan Trujillo
Michael Thomas
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
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
Pat Healey - Baltimore - No game this week.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - No game until 1/18.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 80 minutes in Chivas' 1-0 win over Chiapas.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Beat Felfines II 3-0.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Bengaluru's 5-3 Federation Cup win over Sporting Goa.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - No game until 1/24
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 2-1 win over Police FC.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Next game 1/24
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in Wigan's 3-0 win over Bournemouth. Started and played 120 minutes in Wigan's 3-1 win over Milton Keynes Dons in the FA Cup.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 68 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 win over Club America.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - No game until 1/19.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game until 2/1
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Out injured.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Offseason.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game until 2/2
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game til March.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No games until February.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Offseason.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in either of Blackburn's games.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Offseason.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - No game until 1/25.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Ivan Trujillo
Michael Thomas
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
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
Pat Healey - Baltimore - No game this week.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - FC Haka - Finland - Offseason.
Vicente Arze - Sporting Charleroi - No game until 1/18.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 80 minutes in Chivas' 1-0 win over Chiapas.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Beat Felfines II 3-0.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Bengaluru's 5-3 Federation Cup win over Sporting Goa.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - No game until 1/24
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 2-1 win over Police FC.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Next game 1/24
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Came off the bench and played 12 minutes in Wigan's 3-0 win over Bournemouth. Started and played 120 minutes in Wigan's 3-1 win over Milton Keynes Dons in the FA Cup.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 68 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 win over Club America.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - AC Goianiense - Brazil - No game until 1/19.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - No game until 2/1
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Out injured.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Offseason.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game until 2/2
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game til March.
Michal Mravec - Zilina - Slovakia - No games until February.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Offseason.
Pablo Punyed - Fylkir - Iceland - Offseason.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in either of Blackburn's games.
Milos Stojcev - Atyrau - Kazakhstan - Offseason.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - No game until 1/25.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Single Season Appearances and Starts
More stats for you, this time single season appearances and starts
Once again, Jimmy Nielsen appeared in all league games for Sporting KC, the second straight time Nielsen's done it and the third time overall. Seth Sinovic missed just two league games this past year to also get onto the list.
CJ Sapong - 2011 - 34
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 34
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 34
Kei Kamara - 2012 - 33
Preki - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1997 - 32
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 32
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 32
Bo Oshoniyi - 2005 - 32
Davy Arnaud - 2006 - 32
Matt Besler - 2011 - 32
Graham Zusi - 2011 - 32
Graham Zusi - 2012 - 32
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 32
In all competitions, Sporting set a club record for competitive games, playing 45, so a number of players made the list for all competitions. Including Oriol Rosell and Seth Sinovic who set a club record by appearing in 42 games this past season. Jimmy Nielsen and Aurelien Collin both appeared in 39 to also get onto the list.
Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 42
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 42
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 40
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 40
Chris Brown - 2002 - 40
CJ Sapong - 2011 - 40
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 40
Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 39
Preki - 2000 - 39
Chris Henderson - 2000 - 39
Kerry Zavagnin - 2002 - 39
Matt Besler - 2011 - 39
Graham Zusi - 2012 - 39
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 39
Aurelien Collin - 2013 - 39
When it comes to league starts, Nielsen again tops the list tying his club record with 34 again. Sinovic and Rosell also made the list, starting 31 games this past season.
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 34
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 34
Preki - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1997 - 32
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 32
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 32
Bo Oshoniyi - 2005 - 32
Matt Besler - 2011 - 32
Kei Kamara - 2012 - 32
Sean Bowers - 1996 - 31
Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 31
Tony Meola - 2000 - 31
Brandon Prideaux - 2000 - 31
Chris Klein - 2005 - 31
Jose Burciaga Jr - 2005 - 31
Jimmy Nielsen - 2011 - 31
Graham Zusi - 2012 - 31
Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 31
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 31
When it comes to starts in all competitions again new records were set as Rosell and Sinovic both started 41 games for KC this season. Nielsen and Collin were not far behind starting 39.
Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 41
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 41
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 40
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 40
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 40
Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 39
Kerry Zavagnin - 2002 - 39
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 39
Aurelien Collin - 2013 - 39
Preki - 1996 - 38
Mark Chung - 1996 - 38
Tony Meola - 2000 - 38
Brandon Prideaux - 2000 - 38
Nick Garcia - 2002 - 38
Davy Arnaud - 2004 - 38
Matt Besler - 2011 - 38
Once again, Jimmy Nielsen appeared in all league games for Sporting KC, the second straight time Nielsen's done it and the third time overall. Seth Sinovic missed just two league games this past year to also get onto the list.
CJ Sapong - 2011 - 34
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 34
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 34
Kei Kamara - 2012 - 33
Preki - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1997 - 32
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 32
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 32
Bo Oshoniyi - 2005 - 32
Davy Arnaud - 2006 - 32
Matt Besler - 2011 - 32
Graham Zusi - 2011 - 32
Graham Zusi - 2012 - 32
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 32
In all competitions, Sporting set a club record for competitive games, playing 45, so a number of players made the list for all competitions. Including Oriol Rosell and Seth Sinovic who set a club record by appearing in 42 games this past season. Jimmy Nielsen and Aurelien Collin both appeared in 39 to also get onto the list.
Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 42
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 42
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 40
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 40
Chris Brown - 2002 - 40
CJ Sapong - 2011 - 40
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 40
Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 39
Preki - 2000 - 39
Chris Henderson - 2000 - 39
Kerry Zavagnin - 2002 - 39
Matt Besler - 2011 - 39
Graham Zusi - 2012 - 39
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 39
Aurelien Collin - 2013 - 39
When it comes to league starts, Nielsen again tops the list tying his club record with 34 again. Sinovic and Rosell also made the list, starting 31 games this past season.
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 34
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 34
Preki - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1996 - 32
Mark Chung - 1997 - 32
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 32
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 32
Bo Oshoniyi - 2005 - 32
Matt Besler - 2011 - 32
Kei Kamara - 2012 - 32
Sean Bowers - 1996 - 31
Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 31
Tony Meola - 2000 - 31
Brandon Prideaux - 2000 - 31
Chris Klein - 2005 - 31
Jose Burciaga Jr - 2005 - 31
Jimmy Nielsen - 2011 - 31
Graham Zusi - 2012 - 31
Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 31
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 31
When it comes to starts in all competitions again new records were set as Rosell and Sinovic both started 41 games for KC this season. Nielsen and Collin were not far behind starting 39.
Oriol Rosell - 2013 - 41
Seth Sinovic - 2013 - 41
Nick Garcia - 2000 - 40
Peter Vermes - 2000 - 40
Jimmy Nielsen - 2012 - 40
Kerry Zavagnin - 2000 - 39
Kerry Zavagnin - 2002 - 39
Jimmy Nielsen - 2013 - 39
Aurelien Collin - 2013 - 39
Preki - 1996 - 38
Mark Chung - 1996 - 38
Tony Meola - 2000 - 38
Brandon Prideaux - 2000 - 38
Nick Garcia - 2002 - 38
Davy Arnaud - 2004 - 38
Matt Besler - 2011 - 38
Dwyer Loan to Charlton is Off
Since announcing that he was looking to go on loan to a Championship side, we've been waiting to see where he'd end up. Throughout the month so far we'd been hearing the name Charlton Athletic thrown around. Dwyer did end up training with the Addicks during the month and still looked hopefully of a loan. The loan appeared to be happening but then Charlton was part of a takeover bid by a Belgian businessman.
That takeover put the loan on delay, and then came news today that the loan move is now off. Chris Powell, the Addicks manager ruled out a move saying that Dwyer was on his way back to the United States.
Dwyer himself said goodbye on Twitter and said that the timing of the takeover bid didn't give them enough time to work out a deal.
It's the second time in as many years that Dwyer has had a loan move called off. Last year it was Scottish club, St. Mirren that Dwyer was going to move on loan to. Last year, at least the stories out of the UK made it sound like Sporting KC were the ones that called off the loan. This year it appears to be on the opposite side of the pond.
That takeover put the loan on delay, and then came news today that the loan move is now off. Chris Powell, the Addicks manager ruled out a move saying that Dwyer was on his way back to the United States.
Dwyer himself said goodbye on Twitter and said that the timing of the takeover bid didn't give them enough time to work out a deal.
Disappointed not to complete a short term loan, Unfortunate timing of the takeover at the club made us run out of time to complete deal.
— Dom Dwyer (@Ddwyer14) January 14, 2014
It's the second time in as many years that Dwyer has had a loan move called off. Last year it was Scottish club, St. Mirren that Dwyer was going to move on loan to. Last year, at least the stories out of the UK made it sound like Sporting KC were the ones that called off the loan. This year it appears to be on the opposite side of the pond.
Monday, January 13, 2014
Disney Pro Soccer Classic Schedule is Out
Preseason for Sporting KC begins next week, it seems like just yesterday Sporting lifted MLS Cup. They report to Tucson a week from this Friday and play their first preseason game two weeks from Saturday. The season is right around the corner. Today came the announcement of more preseason games.
The schedule for the Disney Pro Soccer Classic was released today. Sporting KC will play two Eastern Conference rivals along with a foreign side in the tournament.
The team's first game on February 19th is against the Supporters' Shield winners, New York. They follow that up with a game on the 22nd against Brazilian side Fluminense's U23 team. Their final group game is on the 26th against the Montreal Impact. They'll play one more game as part of the tournament one week before first kick, on March 1.
The schedule for the Disney Pro Soccer Classic was released today. Sporting KC will play two Eastern Conference rivals along with a foreign side in the tournament.
The team's first game on February 19th is against the Supporters' Shield winners, New York. They follow that up with a game on the 22nd against Brazilian side Fluminense's U23 team. Their final group game is on the 26th against the Montreal Impact. They'll play one more game as part of the tournament one week before first kick, on March 1.
FC Kansas City Stock Piling Draft Picks
FC Kansas City added two more draft picks to their collection today ahead of Friday's NWSL draft. Through two trades, FCKC added a second and a third round pick giving them a grand total of six for Friday's draft.
First today, the Blues announced that they'd acquired the 19th overall pick in the draft, the first pick of the third round from the Houston Dash in exchange for goalkeeper, Bianca Henninger. Henninger's position on the team became expendable after KC was allocated Mexican international goalkeeper Cecilia Santiago. The 19 year old had been with the Boston Breakers last year. But her addition, and KC keeping Nicole Barnhart left KC with three keepers. Henninger seemed the likely candidate to depart and will not go to Houston where she'll be the back up for Canadian national team goalkeeper, Erin McLeod.
A little later in the day, the Blues announced another trade. This one saw FCKC acquire a second round pick, the 16th overall from the Portland Thorns in exchange for midfielder Sinead Farrelly. Farrelly appeared in 16 of the Blues' 22 games last season, starting 10 of them. She also scored one goal. She'll now join up with her former coach, Paul Riley in Portland.
First today, the Blues announced that they'd acquired the 19th overall pick in the draft, the first pick of the third round from the Houston Dash in exchange for goalkeeper, Bianca Henninger. Henninger's position on the team became expendable after KC was allocated Mexican international goalkeeper Cecilia Santiago. The 19 year old had been with the Boston Breakers last year. But her addition, and KC keeping Nicole Barnhart left KC with three keepers. Henninger seemed the likely candidate to depart and will not go to Houston where she'll be the back up for Canadian national team goalkeeper, Erin McLeod.
A little later in the day, the Blues announced another trade. This one saw FCKC acquire a second round pick, the 16th overall from the Portland Thorns in exchange for midfielder Sinead Farrelly. Farrelly appeared in 16 of the Blues' 22 games last season, starting 10 of them. She also scored one goal. She'll now join up with her former coach, Paul Riley in Portland.
Sunday, January 12, 2014
A Look at Sporting KC's Draft Position
The MLS Superdraft is this week. It's not going to be an incredibly busy day for Sporting KC, especially in the early going. KC's first pick isn't until the last pick of the second round, the 38th pick overall. The team traded their first round pick, 19th overall, to New England in the trade that brought Benny Feilhaber to Kansas City. KC still has four picks though in the draft: the 38th pick, the 41st acquired from Toronto FC in the Bobby Convey trade, the 57th, and 76th. With those four picks, here's a historic look at the players that have been selected there.
38th pick
2000 - Adam Eyre - New England
2001 - Greg Simmonds - Miami
2002 - Cory Gibbs - Los Angeles
2003 - Matt Crawford - Colorado
2004 - Denny Clanton - Chicago
2005 - Esteban Arias - Chivas
2006 - Duke Hashimoto - Columbus
2007 - Bryan Byrne - New England
2008 - Dwight Barnett - Chicago
2009 - Chris Salvaggione - New England
2010 - Jason Yeisley - Dallas
2011 - Billy Cortes - New York
2012 - Kenny Walker - Los Angeles
2013 - Greg Cochrane - Los Angeles
From looking at this list, Cory Gibbs stands out, but this is actually the second time he was drafted. Both times he ended up not playing for the team that drafted him. Instead he remained in Europe and returned to MLS at a different time. Of the players that actually played for the team that drafted him, was Matt Crawford in 2003. He played 52 league games for Colorado over a four year period. For the most part there's not much in the pick. Just three of the last six players drafted in this spot have made their team's roster. And of those three, only Greg Cochrane drafted last year by LA has played more than 45 league minutes.
41st pick
2000 - Michael Burke - DC
2001 - Ryan Trout - Colorado
2002 - Derek Potteiger - New England
2003 - John Swann - DC
2004 - Adom Crew - Columbus
2005 - Antou Jallow - San Jose
2006 - Blake Camp - New York
2007 - Aaron Chandler - Columbus
2008 - Matt Britner - New England
2009 - Danny Cruz - Houston
2010 - Mauro Fuzetti - KC
2011 - Levi Houapeu - Philadelphia
2012 - Dawyne Smith - NEw England
2013 - David Meves - Portland
This pick is all about Danny Cruz. He's played 111 games in five seasons with three teams. Other than that, this is a fairly forgettable pick. Other than Cruz, the remaining 13 picks have spent a grand total of 6 seasons with MLS teams. Only one of the last four, Levi Houapeu, even made an MLS roster, and he never appeared in a game for Philly.
57th pick
2000 - Dominic Schell - Columbus
2001 - Alex Bengard - Los Angeles
2002 - Brian Lavin - KC
2003 - PASS - NEw England
2004 - Chris Aloisi - Los Angeles
2005 - Bill Gaudette - Columbus
2006 - Jordan Harvey - Colorado
2007 - Steve Purdy - Los Angeles
2008 - Adam Smarte - San Jose
2009 - Mfana Futhi Bhembe - Real Salt Lake
2010 - Adam Welch - New England
2011 - Dan Keat - Los Angeles
2012 - Bryan Gaul - Los Angeles
2013 - Paul Islas - Chivas
This pick actually had some decent talent selected in it, with a number of players have some respectable MLS careers. It's led by Jordan Harvey who has appeared over 150 times in league play for the likes of Colorado, Philadelphia, and Vancouver. You also have Steve Purdy, although his case is similar to Gibbs above where he was drafted by a team but went abroad and did not return until later with a different team. More recently, LA has gotten at least some value out of their two picks, with Keat and Gaul combining for 20 appearances, 9 starts and just over 1000 minutes. They're the only two players from the last five years to make a roster from this pick.
76th pick
2005 - Chris Schwarze - Dallas
2006 - Corey Farabi - KC
2007 - Raul Batista - Chivas
2008 - Cory Elenio - Columbus
2011 - Ernesto Carranza - Chivas
2012 - Rafael Garcia - Los Angeles
2013 - Jose Gomez - Toronto
Not much in this pick, Elenio and Garcia each spent two seasons in the league, Garcia having the better go of it, appearing 10 times for the Galaxy, starting 1 game. The rest of the picks did not make any roster.
So there is the chance with these picks to pick up some talent, but don't expect a world beater to be selected. Sporting may be able to find a steal, but more likely than not, most of the guys KC takes here won't see the field, or possibly won't even make the roster.
38th pick
2000 - Adam Eyre - New England
2001 - Greg Simmonds - Miami
2002 - Cory Gibbs - Los Angeles
2003 - Matt Crawford - Colorado
2004 - Denny Clanton - Chicago
2005 - Esteban Arias - Chivas
2006 - Duke Hashimoto - Columbus
2007 - Bryan Byrne - New England
2008 - Dwight Barnett - Chicago
2009 - Chris Salvaggione - New England
2010 - Jason Yeisley - Dallas
2011 - Billy Cortes - New York
2012 - Kenny Walker - Los Angeles
2013 - Greg Cochrane - Los Angeles
From looking at this list, Cory Gibbs stands out, but this is actually the second time he was drafted. Both times he ended up not playing for the team that drafted him. Instead he remained in Europe and returned to MLS at a different time. Of the players that actually played for the team that drafted him, was Matt Crawford in 2003. He played 52 league games for Colorado over a four year period. For the most part there's not much in the pick. Just three of the last six players drafted in this spot have made their team's roster. And of those three, only Greg Cochrane drafted last year by LA has played more than 45 league minutes.
41st pick
2000 - Michael Burke - DC
2001 - Ryan Trout - Colorado
2002 - Derek Potteiger - New England
2003 - John Swann - DC
2004 - Adom Crew - Columbus
2005 - Antou Jallow - San Jose
2006 - Blake Camp - New York
2007 - Aaron Chandler - Columbus
2008 - Matt Britner - New England
2009 - Danny Cruz - Houston
2010 - Mauro Fuzetti - KC
2011 - Levi Houapeu - Philadelphia
2012 - Dawyne Smith - NEw England
2013 - David Meves - Portland
This pick is all about Danny Cruz. He's played 111 games in five seasons with three teams. Other than that, this is a fairly forgettable pick. Other than Cruz, the remaining 13 picks have spent a grand total of 6 seasons with MLS teams. Only one of the last four, Levi Houapeu, even made an MLS roster, and he never appeared in a game for Philly.
57th pick
2000 - Dominic Schell - Columbus
2001 - Alex Bengard - Los Angeles
2002 - Brian Lavin - KC
2003 - PASS - NEw England
2004 - Chris Aloisi - Los Angeles
2005 - Bill Gaudette - Columbus
2006 - Jordan Harvey - Colorado
2007 - Steve Purdy - Los Angeles
2008 - Adam Smarte - San Jose
2009 - Mfana Futhi Bhembe - Real Salt Lake
2010 - Adam Welch - New England
2011 - Dan Keat - Los Angeles
2012 - Bryan Gaul - Los Angeles
2013 - Paul Islas - Chivas
This pick actually had some decent talent selected in it, with a number of players have some respectable MLS careers. It's led by Jordan Harvey who has appeared over 150 times in league play for the likes of Colorado, Philadelphia, and Vancouver. You also have Steve Purdy, although his case is similar to Gibbs above where he was drafted by a team but went abroad and did not return until later with a different team. More recently, LA has gotten at least some value out of their two picks, with Keat and Gaul combining for 20 appearances, 9 starts and just over 1000 minutes. They're the only two players from the last five years to make a roster from this pick.
76th pick
2005 - Chris Schwarze - Dallas
2006 - Corey Farabi - KC
2007 - Raul Batista - Chivas
2008 - Cory Elenio - Columbus
2011 - Ernesto Carranza - Chivas
2012 - Rafael Garcia - Los Angeles
2013 - Jose Gomez - Toronto
Not much in this pick, Elenio and Garcia each spent two seasons in the league, Garcia having the better go of it, appearing 10 times for the Galaxy, starting 1 game. The rest of the picks did not make any roster.
So there is the chance with these picks to pick up some talent, but don't expect a world beater to be selected. Sporting may be able to find a steal, but more likely than not, most of the guys KC takes here won't see the field, or possibly won't even make the roster.
Five Sporting Players Headed to Brazil
US Soccer announced today that all 26 players originally called up for the World Cup preparation camp will be headed to Brazil tomorrow for the continuation of the camp. Originally Jurgen Klinsmann was only going to be taking 23 of the players to Brazil, but today in the release, Klinsmann said "The players came in very fit and have done really well in training. Therefore, we believe they have all earned a chance to go to Brazil for these next 12 days."
That means that all five of Sporting KC's representatives, Matt Besler, Benny Feilhaber, Chance Myers, Seth Sinovic, and Graham Zusi will all be heading to Brazil. The five will spend the next 12 days in Brazil before returning to California for a game against South Korea on February 1st.
What this means is that the five will miss the beginning of Sporting KC's preseason. Sporting KC will report to Tucson in 12 days but will have some initial trainings in KC first. Depending on what happens, they could also miss the first preseason game if they are kept until the game against South Korea on February 1st.
That means that all five of Sporting KC's representatives, Matt Besler, Benny Feilhaber, Chance Myers, Seth Sinovic, and Graham Zusi will all be heading to Brazil. The five will spend the next 12 days in Brazil before returning to California for a game against South Korea on February 1st.
What this means is that the five will miss the beginning of Sporting KC's preseason. Sporting KC will report to Tucson in 12 days but will have some initial trainings in KC first. Depending on what happens, they could also miss the first preseason game if they are kept until the game against South Korea on February 1st.
Most Starts
Another stat, this time, most starts for Kansas City. In league play just two players hit the 100 appearance mark this past season. Matt Besler and Jimmy Nielsen both hit the century mark for starts in league play. Besler finishes the season behind Nielsen, but again is the current active leader and should pass Nielsen in the 2014 season. Also next season we should see four more players hit the mark. Graham Zusi and Chance Myers are just 9 appearances away from 100. While Seth Sinovic is 19 and Aurelien Collin is 22, so all four should hit 100 this coming season.
Kerry Zavagnin - 228
Nick Garcia - 224
Davy Arnaud - 213
Jimmy Conrad - 203
Preki - 199
Chris Klein - 183
Mo Johnston - 142
Jack Jewsbury - 142
Josh Wolff - 128
Michael Harrington - 128
Jimmy Nielsen - 128
Matt McKeon - 126
Tony Meola - 125
Matt Besler - 121
Jose Burciaga Jr. - 110
Diego Gutierrez - 108
Uche Okafor - 107
Sean Bowers - 104
Graham Zusi - 91
Chance Myers - 91
Seth Sinovic - 81
Aurelien Collin - 78
CJ Sapong - 62
Teal Bunbury - 48
Paulo Nagamura - 36
Oriol Rosell - 32
Claudio Bieler - 25
Benny Feilhaber - 22
Lawrence Olum - 19
Jacob Peterson - 19
Peterson Joseph - 18
Soony Saad - 17
Ike Opara - 15
Mechack Jerome - 8
Dom Dwyer - 7
Eric Kronberg - 4
Josh Gardner - 2
Kevin Ellis - 1
In all competitions there were four new additions to the list. Chance Myers and Graham Zusi both hit 100 starts, finishing with 112 and 111 respectively. Also joining the list was the departed Kei Kamara. He made 11 starts in all competitions before moving to Middlesbrough, finishing with 108. A late season addition to the list was Seth Sinovic who finished the season with 102 starts in all competitions. Next season will see at least one addition, in Aurelien Collin who sits just one appearance short of 100. After him is CJ Sapong on 77, he made 23 starts in all competitions this year, which would be enough in 2014 to see him make the list as well.
Kerry Zavagnin - 281
Nick Garcia - 272
Davy Arnaud - 234
Preki - 229
Jimmy Conrad - 228
Chris Klein - 216
Jack Jewsbury - 162
Matt McKeon - 159
Mo Johnston - 157
Tony Meola - 156
Josh Wolff - 144
Matt Besler - 144
Michael Harrington - 143
Jimmy Nielsen - 142
Diego Gutierrez - 135
Jose Burciaga Jr. - 123
Uche Okafor - 116
Sean Bowers - 113
Chance Myers - 112
Graham Zusi - 111
Kei Kamara - 108
Roger Espinoza - 106
Bo Oshoniyi - 105
Mark Chung - 103
Sasha Victorine - 102
Seth Sinovic - 102
Kevin Hartman - 100
Aurelien Collin - 99
CJ Sapong - 77
Teal Bunbury - 61
Paulo Nagamura - 45
Oriol Rosell - 43
Benny Feilhaber - 31
Jacob Peterson - 29
Claudio Bieler - 28
Lawrence Olum - 27
Peterson Joseph - 24
Soony Saad - 23
Ike Opara - 20
Eric Kronberg - 18
Dom Dwyer - 12
Mechack Jerome - 11
Josh Gardner - 5
Kevin Ellis - 2
Jon Kempin - 1
Mikey Lopez - 1
Kerry Zavagnin - 228
Nick Garcia - 224
Davy Arnaud - 213
Jimmy Conrad - 203
Preki - 199
Chris Klein - 183
Mo Johnston - 142
Jack Jewsbury - 142
Josh Wolff - 128
Michael Harrington - 128
Jimmy Nielsen - 128
Matt McKeon - 126
Tony Meola - 125
Matt Besler - 121
Jose Burciaga Jr. - 110
Diego Gutierrez - 108
Uche Okafor - 107
Sean Bowers - 104
Graham Zusi - 91
Chance Myers - 91
Seth Sinovic - 81
Aurelien Collin - 78
CJ Sapong - 62
Teal Bunbury - 48
Paulo Nagamura - 36
Oriol Rosell - 32
Claudio Bieler - 25
Benny Feilhaber - 22
Lawrence Olum - 19
Jacob Peterson - 19
Peterson Joseph - 18
Soony Saad - 17
Ike Opara - 15
Mechack Jerome - 8
Dom Dwyer - 7
Eric Kronberg - 4
Josh Gardner - 2
Kevin Ellis - 1
In all competitions there were four new additions to the list. Chance Myers and Graham Zusi both hit 100 starts, finishing with 112 and 111 respectively. Also joining the list was the departed Kei Kamara. He made 11 starts in all competitions before moving to Middlesbrough, finishing with 108. A late season addition to the list was Seth Sinovic who finished the season with 102 starts in all competitions. Next season will see at least one addition, in Aurelien Collin who sits just one appearance short of 100. After him is CJ Sapong on 77, he made 23 starts in all competitions this year, which would be enough in 2014 to see him make the list as well.
Kerry Zavagnin - 281
Nick Garcia - 272
Davy Arnaud - 234
Preki - 229
Jimmy Conrad - 228
Chris Klein - 216
Jack Jewsbury - 162
Matt McKeon - 159
Mo Johnston - 157
Tony Meola - 156
Josh Wolff - 144
Matt Besler - 144
Michael Harrington - 143
Jimmy Nielsen - 142
Diego Gutierrez - 135
Jose Burciaga Jr. - 123
Uche Okafor - 116
Sean Bowers - 113
Chance Myers - 112
Graham Zusi - 111
Kei Kamara - 108
Roger Espinoza - 106
Bo Oshoniyi - 105
Mark Chung - 103
Sasha Victorine - 102
Seth Sinovic - 102
Kevin Hartman - 100
Aurelien Collin - 99
CJ Sapong - 77
Teal Bunbury - 61
Paulo Nagamura - 45
Oriol Rosell - 43
Benny Feilhaber - 31
Jacob Peterson - 29
Claudio Bieler - 28
Lawrence Olum - 27
Peterson Joseph - 24
Soony Saad - 23
Ike Opara - 20
Eric Kronberg - 18
Dom Dwyer - 12
Mechack Jerome - 11
Josh Gardner - 5
Kevin Ellis - 2
Jon Kempin - 1
Mikey Lopez - 1
Most Appearances
More stat updates for you. This time appearances for Sporting KC. This season four players made their 100th league appearance for KC, with Kei Kamara, Jimmy Nielsen, Chance Myers, and Graham Zusi all hitting the mark. Even though he was passed by Nielsen during the season, with Nielsen's retirement, Matt Besler is again the active leader in appearances with 126. This year could very well see another four players join the list as CJ Sapong (90), Teal Bunbury (89), Seth Sinovic (82), and Aurelien Collin (81) are all within 20 appearances of 100.
Davy Arnaud - 240
Kerry Zavagnin - 237
Nick Garcia - 224
Preki - 218
Jimmy Conrad - 204
Chris Klein - 200
Jack Jewsbury - 195
Mo Johnston - 149
Michael Harrington - 149
Josh Wolff - 144
Matt McKeon - 144
Jimmy Nielsen - 128
Matt Besler - 126
Tony Meola - 125
Chris Brown - 123
Graham Zusi - 123
Diego Gutierrez - 119
Uche Okafor - 119
Chance Myers - 116
Jose Burciaga - 115
Francisco Gomez - 114
Roger Espinoza - 113
Kei Kamara - 113
Sean Bowers - 111
Sasha Victorine - 106
Digital Takawira - 103
CJ Sapong - 90
Teal Bunbury - 89
Seth Sinovic - 82
Aurelien Collin - 81
Paulo Nagamura - 44
Lawrence Olum - 42
Jacob Peterson - 39
Oriol Rosell - 36
Soony Saad - 36
Peterson Joseph - 34
Claudio Bieler - 28
Benny Feilhaber - 27
Ike Opara - 18
Dom Dwyer - 17
Mechack Jerome - 10
Josh Gardner - 8
Eric Kronberg - 5
Kevin Ellis - 2
Jimmy Medranda - 1
In all competitions this year four players also joined the list of players with 100 appearances. CJ Sapong, Teal Bunbury, Seth Sinovic, and Aurelien Collin all made it over the 100 appearances mark for KC in all competitions. Unfortunately no one is likely to hit the mark this year, without some deep runs in the CCL, US Open Cup, and playoffs and some players playing each of those games. Also this season, Matt Besler became just the 14th player to appear in 150 games in all competitions for KC.
Kerry Zavagnin - 291
Davy Arnaud - 273
Nick Garcia - 273
Preki - 254
Chris Klein - 235
Jimmy Conrad - 230
Jack Jewsbury - 218
Matt McKeon - 183
Michael Harrington - 170
Mo Johnston - 169
Josh Wolff - 165
Tony Meola - 156
Matt Besler - 151
Chris Brown - 150
Diego Gutierrez - 147
Graham Zusi - 145
Jimmy Nielsen - 142
Francisco Gomez - 141
Chance Myers - 138
Jose Burciaga - 130
Uche Okafor - 130
Roger Espinoza - 130
Kei Kamara - 126
Sean Bowers - 120
Sasha Victorine - 114
CJ Sapong - 114
Digital Takawira - 111
Bo Oshoniyi - 110
Teal Bunbury - 105
Mark Chung - 104
Seth Sinovic - 103
Aurelien Collin - 102
Shavar Thomas - 101
Kevin Hartman - 100
Paulo Nagamura - 53
Lawrence Olum - 52
Jacob Peterson - 52
Oriol Rosell - 48
Soony Saad - 46
Peterson Joseph - 42
Benny Feilhaber - 36
Claudio Bieler - 35
Dom Dwyer - 28
Ike Opara - 25
Eric Kronberg - 19
Mechack Jerome - 13
Josh Gardner - 12
Kevin Ellis - 4
Jon Kempin - 1
Mikey Lopez - 1
Jimmy Medranda - 1
Davy Arnaud - 240
Kerry Zavagnin - 237
Nick Garcia - 224
Preki - 218
Jimmy Conrad - 204
Chris Klein - 200
Jack Jewsbury - 195
Mo Johnston - 149
Michael Harrington - 149
Josh Wolff - 144
Matt McKeon - 144
Jimmy Nielsen - 128
Matt Besler - 126
Tony Meola - 125
Chris Brown - 123
Graham Zusi - 123
Diego Gutierrez - 119
Uche Okafor - 119
Chance Myers - 116
Jose Burciaga - 115
Francisco Gomez - 114
Roger Espinoza - 113
Kei Kamara - 113
Sean Bowers - 111
Sasha Victorine - 106
Digital Takawira - 103
CJ Sapong - 90
Teal Bunbury - 89
Seth Sinovic - 82
Aurelien Collin - 81
Paulo Nagamura - 44
Lawrence Olum - 42
Jacob Peterson - 39
Oriol Rosell - 36
Soony Saad - 36
Peterson Joseph - 34
Claudio Bieler - 28
Benny Feilhaber - 27
Ike Opara - 18
Dom Dwyer - 17
Mechack Jerome - 10
Josh Gardner - 8
Eric Kronberg - 5
Kevin Ellis - 2
Jimmy Medranda - 1
In all competitions this year four players also joined the list of players with 100 appearances. CJ Sapong, Teal Bunbury, Seth Sinovic, and Aurelien Collin all made it over the 100 appearances mark for KC in all competitions. Unfortunately no one is likely to hit the mark this year, without some deep runs in the CCL, US Open Cup, and playoffs and some players playing each of those games. Also this season, Matt Besler became just the 14th player to appear in 150 games in all competitions for KC.
Kerry Zavagnin - 291
Davy Arnaud - 273
Nick Garcia - 273
Preki - 254
Chris Klein - 235
Jimmy Conrad - 230
Jack Jewsbury - 218
Matt McKeon - 183
Michael Harrington - 170
Mo Johnston - 169
Josh Wolff - 165
Tony Meola - 156
Matt Besler - 151
Chris Brown - 150
Diego Gutierrez - 147
Graham Zusi - 145
Jimmy Nielsen - 142
Francisco Gomez - 141
Chance Myers - 138
Jose Burciaga - 130
Uche Okafor - 130
Roger Espinoza - 130
Kei Kamara - 126
Sean Bowers - 120
Sasha Victorine - 114
CJ Sapong - 114
Digital Takawira - 111
Bo Oshoniyi - 110
Teal Bunbury - 105
Mark Chung - 104
Seth Sinovic - 103
Aurelien Collin - 102
Shavar Thomas - 101
Kevin Hartman - 100
Paulo Nagamura - 53
Lawrence Olum - 52
Jacob Peterson - 52
Oriol Rosell - 48
Soony Saad - 46
Peterson Joseph - 42
Benny Feilhaber - 36
Claudio Bieler - 35
Dom Dwyer - 28
Ike Opara - 25
Eric Kronberg - 19
Mechack Jerome - 13
Josh Gardner - 12
Kevin Ellis - 4
Jon Kempin - 1
Mikey Lopez - 1
Jimmy Medranda - 1
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Comets Top Winless Roar
The Missouri Comets finished off their two-game road trip with a resounding 13-5 win over the expansion Roar at Santander Arena in Reading, Pennsylvania. Missouri’s Byron Alvarez finished with three points, scoring a goal and assisting on another. Reading’s leading scorer, JerJer Gibson had a 3-point goal to lead his team.
Coming off a disappointing 11-8 loss last night in Syracuse, the Comets were determined to have a good showing against the winless Pennsylvania Roar. Robert Palmer started the night off on the right foot with an unassisted goal a little over a minute into the game. Coady Andrews added a three-point score midway through the quarter and Ramone Palmer chipped in a score midway through the second quarter to give Missouri a 7-0 halftime lead.
After suffering a third quarter collapse on Friday, the Comets controlled possession throughout the period. Capitalizing on a Pennsylvania mistake, Alvarez scored early in the quarter to increase their lead to 9-0. Now, with a comfortable lead, Missouri played it safe, passing the ball all the way back to keeper, Danny Waltman if they felt the play needed to be reset.
Perhaps a little too relaxed, a slow-paced pass back to Waltman allowed the Roar’s newly signed Kingsley Onwuka to confuse the Comets defense and get his side their first points of the night with a little over four minutes remaining in the third quarter. Pennsylvania’s Gibson found the far side netting past Waltman to briefly cut the Comets lead to 9-5 early in the fourth quarter.
Missouri remained calm as Pennsylvania hoped to climb back into the match by inserting Ptah Myers as a sixth attacker. Brian Harris pulled the ball out of the defensive zone and streaked down to the corner. Perhaps thinking he was just killing time, the Roar’s defender allowed Harris to turn and hit a rocket of a shot into the net. Alvarez and John Sosa also beat Pennsylvania’s pressure in the final minutes of the game, giving them a two-on-none breakaway against Roar goalkeeper, Peter Pappas. The indoor soccer legend, Pappas, had no chance as Sosa’s score gave the Comets a 13-5 lead, which was all they needed as they played keep-away for the final minute of action.
Coming off a disappointing 11-8 loss last night in Syracuse, the Comets were determined to have a good showing against the winless Pennsylvania Roar. Robert Palmer started the night off on the right foot with an unassisted goal a little over a minute into the game. Coady Andrews added a three-point score midway through the quarter and Ramone Palmer chipped in a score midway through the second quarter to give Missouri a 7-0 halftime lead.
After suffering a third quarter collapse on Friday, the Comets controlled possession throughout the period. Capitalizing on a Pennsylvania mistake, Alvarez scored early in the quarter to increase their lead to 9-0. Now, with a comfortable lead, Missouri played it safe, passing the ball all the way back to keeper, Danny Waltman if they felt the play needed to be reset.
Perhaps a little too relaxed, a slow-paced pass back to Waltman allowed the Roar’s newly signed Kingsley Onwuka to confuse the Comets defense and get his side their first points of the night with a little over four minutes remaining in the third quarter. Pennsylvania’s Gibson found the far side netting past Waltman to briefly cut the Comets lead to 9-5 early in the fourth quarter.
Missouri remained calm as Pennsylvania hoped to climb back into the match by inserting Ptah Myers as a sixth attacker. Brian Harris pulled the ball out of the defensive zone and streaked down to the corner. Perhaps thinking he was just killing time, the Roar’s defender allowed Harris to turn and hit a rocket of a shot into the net. Alvarez and John Sosa also beat Pennsylvania’s pressure in the final minutes of the game, giving them a two-on-none breakaway against Roar goalkeeper, Peter Pappas. The indoor soccer legend, Pappas, had no chance as Sosa’s score gave the Comets a 13-5 lead, which was all they needed as they played keep-away for the final minute of action.