Dom Dwyer's goal was the 28th of his career in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with CJ Sapong for the active goal leader for KC.
The goal also broke Dwyer's tie with Sapong for 9th place on the list for goals in all competitions.
Dwyer's goal was his 12th in all competitions away from home, breaking his tie with Kei Kamara for 7th on that list.
Benny Feilhaber's assist was his 16th in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Diego Gutierrez, Chris Henderson, and Michael Harrington for 17th on that list.
Seth Sinovic and CJ Sapong made their 142nd appearance in all competitions for KC, tying them with Jimmy Nielsen for 18th place on that list.
Bradley Wright-Phillips' 2 goals against KC gave him six on the year, the most KC has ever allowed 1 player to score in a single season against KC.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Sporting Fall Late to New York, End Season
Before today's game I had prepared myself for Sporting KC's season to end. Kansas City had struggled with too many injuries and were too worn out from all the missed games. Still, with the season actually ending it's still disappointing, especially with it ending in the manner that it did for Kansas City, with Bradley Wright-Phillips scoring his sixth goal of the season against Kansas City in second half stoppage time to bring New York from a 1-0 deficit to a 2-1 win.
Sporting came out with a different strategy than they did for much of the season. Instead of using the high pressure that KC has used for most of Peter Vermes tenure as coach, KC started the game sitting further back, attempting to absorb pressure and tried to hit New York on the counter. This allowed New York a lot of possession and pressure in KC's end of the field. In the 17th minute, Tim Cahill missed an open opportunity after a deflected shot fell to his feet at the top of the six. Cahill though fired the shot over Eric Kronberg's goal as the game stayed tied 0-0. New York kept pressure as Wright-Phillips missed with an open header in the 32nd minute. Thierry Heny also had a chance later in the half, curling a shot wide of Kronberg's far post. Kansas City did start to create some chances of their own on the counter and really should have taken the lead. Dom Dwyer held off Jamison Olave on a long ball from Aurelien Collin. Dwyer was able to get his head up and laid a ball right towards the penalty spot for an on running Paulo Nagamura who fired his shot right at Luis Robles who held on for the save. Shortly after that, CJ Sapong helped to set up Dwyer with a similar pass, but Dwyer's effort was blocked out for a corner by Olave as the two teams went into the half time break tied at 0-0.
Early in the second half the Red Bulls again had a great opportunity. Off a long set piece into the box, Kronberg came out attempting to punch the ball away, but only put it into the path of Dax McCarty. With the goal wide open though, McCarty put his header from the top of the box wide of the KC goal. Kronberg was making a habit of coming off of his line a lot in the game trying to keep New York from getting open headers or chances in the box. With all the pressure seeming to be coming from New York, it was actually KC that grabbed the lead in the 53rd minute. After a restart the Red Bulls were slowly, almost lazily bringing the ball up field. Henry played the ball into the center circle for Eric Alexander who was pressured by Dwyer. Alexander's touch took the ball right into the path of Benny Feilhaber who was racing to help Dwyer pressure the Red Bulls midfielder. Feilhaber won the ball and raced down field in a 2v4 situation. With both McCarty and Olave looking to close him down, Feilhaber slid a ball against the flow of the players into the path of Dwyer who one timed his shot past Robles and into the net to make it 1-0 KC. The Red Bulls almost responded immediately with Alexander making amends. An Henry cross was headed back across goal by Lloyd Sam for Alexander, but Matt Besler did a good job recovering to knock the ball wide for a corner. Just when it started to look like KC might hold on, New York scored. A ball was played in to substitute, Peguy Luyindula. Luyindula took a touch and turned on Jorge Claros to face up field. KC right back Kevin Ellis immediately pushed up to pressure the ball leaving Henry alone. Ellis pushing up allowed Luyindula to play the ball through to Henry beating Claros, Ellis, and Graham Zusi who was also there in one pass. Henry ran onto the ball as it went towards the end line with Collin sliding over to cover him. This led to Wright-Phillips being unmarked and Besler being stuck between two Red Bulls attackers. Henry picked out Wright-Phillips who fired a shot that went through Besler's legs and past Kronberg and into the net to tie the game. With the game tied, New York continued to pressure, finding chances. In the 90th minute, New York found a winner, a lofted ball into the box by Ambroise Oyongo was headed into net by Wright-Phillips for his second of the game. Like on New York's first goal there were plenty of defensive break downs as Besler appeared to make a run to the near post, expecting Wright-Phillips to continue his run. Collin, who was behind Wright-Phillips didn't make a play for the ball, and Kronberg, who'd been coming for everything all night decided that this was a good time to stay home. Wright-Phillips headed the ball towards the back post where it hit off the post and went into the net giving New York the lead. KC tried to find chances late, but couldn't and ended up seeing their title defense fall at the first hurdle in the playoffs.
Wizards Man of the Match - Benny Feilhaber - If only for the assist to Dwyer which was an absolute thing of beauty that I will be watching all offseason as a way to help me cope.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 2, Ellis 2, Collin 2, Besler 3, Sinovic 3, Claros 3, Nagamura 4, Feilhaber 5, Sapong 3, Dwyer 5, Zusi 3. Subs Peterson NR.
Sporting came out with a different strategy than they did for much of the season. Instead of using the high pressure that KC has used for most of Peter Vermes tenure as coach, KC started the game sitting further back, attempting to absorb pressure and tried to hit New York on the counter. This allowed New York a lot of possession and pressure in KC's end of the field. In the 17th minute, Tim Cahill missed an open opportunity after a deflected shot fell to his feet at the top of the six. Cahill though fired the shot over Eric Kronberg's goal as the game stayed tied 0-0. New York kept pressure as Wright-Phillips missed with an open header in the 32nd minute. Thierry Heny also had a chance later in the half, curling a shot wide of Kronberg's far post. Kansas City did start to create some chances of their own on the counter and really should have taken the lead. Dom Dwyer held off Jamison Olave on a long ball from Aurelien Collin. Dwyer was able to get his head up and laid a ball right towards the penalty spot for an on running Paulo Nagamura who fired his shot right at Luis Robles who held on for the save. Shortly after that, CJ Sapong helped to set up Dwyer with a similar pass, but Dwyer's effort was blocked out for a corner by Olave as the two teams went into the half time break tied at 0-0.
Early in the second half the Red Bulls again had a great opportunity. Off a long set piece into the box, Kronberg came out attempting to punch the ball away, but only put it into the path of Dax McCarty. With the goal wide open though, McCarty put his header from the top of the box wide of the KC goal. Kronberg was making a habit of coming off of his line a lot in the game trying to keep New York from getting open headers or chances in the box. With all the pressure seeming to be coming from New York, it was actually KC that grabbed the lead in the 53rd minute. After a restart the Red Bulls were slowly, almost lazily bringing the ball up field. Henry played the ball into the center circle for Eric Alexander who was pressured by Dwyer. Alexander's touch took the ball right into the path of Benny Feilhaber who was racing to help Dwyer pressure the Red Bulls midfielder. Feilhaber won the ball and raced down field in a 2v4 situation. With both McCarty and Olave looking to close him down, Feilhaber slid a ball against the flow of the players into the path of Dwyer who one timed his shot past Robles and into the net to make it 1-0 KC. The Red Bulls almost responded immediately with Alexander making amends. An Henry cross was headed back across goal by Lloyd Sam for Alexander, but Matt Besler did a good job recovering to knock the ball wide for a corner. Just when it started to look like KC might hold on, New York scored. A ball was played in to substitute, Peguy Luyindula. Luyindula took a touch and turned on Jorge Claros to face up field. KC right back Kevin Ellis immediately pushed up to pressure the ball leaving Henry alone. Ellis pushing up allowed Luyindula to play the ball through to Henry beating Claros, Ellis, and Graham Zusi who was also there in one pass. Henry ran onto the ball as it went towards the end line with Collin sliding over to cover him. This led to Wright-Phillips being unmarked and Besler being stuck between two Red Bulls attackers. Henry picked out Wright-Phillips who fired a shot that went through Besler's legs and past Kronberg and into the net to tie the game. With the game tied, New York continued to pressure, finding chances. In the 90th minute, New York found a winner, a lofted ball into the box by Ambroise Oyongo was headed into net by Wright-Phillips for his second of the game. Like on New York's first goal there were plenty of defensive break downs as Besler appeared to make a run to the near post, expecting Wright-Phillips to continue his run. Collin, who was behind Wright-Phillips didn't make a play for the ball, and Kronberg, who'd been coming for everything all night decided that this was a good time to stay home. Wright-Phillips headed the ball towards the back post where it hit off the post and went into the net giving New York the lead. KC tried to find chances late, but couldn't and ended up seeing their title defense fall at the first hurdle in the playoffs.
Wizards Man of the Match - Benny Feilhaber - If only for the assist to Dwyer which was an absolute thing of beauty that I will be watching all offseason as a way to help me cope.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 2, Ellis 2, Collin 2, Besler 3, Sinovic 3, Claros 3, Nagamura 4, Feilhaber 5, Sapong 3, Dwyer 5, Zusi 3. Subs Peterson NR.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Match Day Playoffs: Win or Go Home
Sporting Kansas City has played themselves into a difficult situation in the playoffs this year. After winning just two of their final 10 games, Sporting fell all the way into fifth place in the East and now head out on the road for the play in game against the New York Red Bulls. Sporting finished the season with a 0-2-1 record against New York drawing 1-1 in KC early in the season before falling 2-1 in New York and 2-0 in KC in the season finale.
New York has been good at home this year, losing only three times at Red Bull Arena. The Red Bulls will also be welcoming back their team captain, Thierry Hery, who missed the team's season finale in KC with an injury. While Henry has 10 goals this year, it's been his assists that have really gotten New York going this year. Henry has pitched in 14 assists this year for New York. Many of those assists have gone to Bradley Wright-Phillips who scored both goals in Sunday's win in KC. He's also scored four of the five goals for New York against KC this year (Henry scored the other).
Kansas City continues to limp through the late stages of the season. Although they may get a bit of a boost as both Benny Feilhaber and Igor Juliao who were injured in Costa Rica, traveled to New York for tomorrow's game. They're still day-to-day, but with the season on the line seeing them play would not be out of the question at all. There are questions with the rest of KC's lineup as well. With more rest I doubt both Jacob Peterson and Sal Zizzo go on the wings for KC, even if Feilhaber can't go. Toni Dovale has been the better winger for KC and provides more to the offense than those two do. The other big question is who starts in the defensive midfield position for KC, whether it is Lawrence Olum who was removed after only 30 minutes on Sunday, or Jorge Claros, who returns from his 3 game suspension for inappropriate comments.
Number to Remember - 0 - That's the number of wins New York has at home in the playoffs at Red Bull Arena. The Red Bulls are 0-4 in the playoffs at home since the stadium opened.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin/Matt Besler vs Bradley Wright-Phillips/Thierry Henry - New York's two strikers have all five of New York's goals against KC this year. They'll be going up against a central defense that is tired (Besler) and out of form (Collin). KC's center backs need to pick up their game at this point. The question is whether they'll be able to after the seasons they've had.
PREDICTION - KC really does look like a broken and beaten team at this point. The team looks worn out after a season that has forced role players to become every day starters. Now they're going to play their fourth game in 13 days in four different cities. Peter Vermes has done a lot with the team this season to get what he got out of it with all the injuries and call ups, but I don't think this team has a playoff run in them. And after tonight's Royals game, hopefully it's easier to deal with.
SKC - 1 (Dwyer)
NY - 2 (Wright-Phillips x2)
New York has been good at home this year, losing only three times at Red Bull Arena. The Red Bulls will also be welcoming back their team captain, Thierry Hery, who missed the team's season finale in KC with an injury. While Henry has 10 goals this year, it's been his assists that have really gotten New York going this year. Henry has pitched in 14 assists this year for New York. Many of those assists have gone to Bradley Wright-Phillips who scored both goals in Sunday's win in KC. He's also scored four of the five goals for New York against KC this year (Henry scored the other).
Kansas City continues to limp through the late stages of the season. Although they may get a bit of a boost as both Benny Feilhaber and Igor Juliao who were injured in Costa Rica, traveled to New York for tomorrow's game. They're still day-to-day, but with the season on the line seeing them play would not be out of the question at all. There are questions with the rest of KC's lineup as well. With more rest I doubt both Jacob Peterson and Sal Zizzo go on the wings for KC, even if Feilhaber can't go. Toni Dovale has been the better winger for KC and provides more to the offense than those two do. The other big question is who starts in the defensive midfield position for KC, whether it is Lawrence Olum who was removed after only 30 minutes on Sunday, or Jorge Claros, who returns from his 3 game suspension for inappropriate comments.
Kronberg
Ellis - Collin - Besler - Sinovic
Claros - Nagamura
Zusi
Dovale - Dwyer - Peterson
Number to Remember - 0 - That's the number of wins New York has at home in the playoffs at Red Bull Arena. The Red Bulls are 0-4 in the playoffs at home since the stadium opened.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin/Matt Besler vs Bradley Wright-Phillips/Thierry Henry - New York's two strikers have all five of New York's goals against KC this year. They'll be going up against a central defense that is tired (Besler) and out of form (Collin). KC's center backs need to pick up their game at this point. The question is whether they'll be able to after the seasons they've had.
PREDICTION - KC really does look like a broken and beaten team at this point. The team looks worn out after a season that has forced role players to become every day starters. Now they're going to play their fourth game in 13 days in four different cities. Peter Vermes has done a lot with the team this season to get what he got out of it with all the injuries and call ups, but I don't think this team has a playoff run in them. And after tonight's Royals game, hopefully it's easier to deal with.
SKC - 1 (Dwyer)
NY - 2 (Wright-Phillips x2)
Martinez Moves to Carolina - Former SKC Wizards Update
I missed this a few weeks ago,but Alex Martinez has moved to join his brother, Enzo in the NASL. Martinez signed on with the Carolina Railhawks ahead of the NASL roster freeze. Martinez played his college ball in North Carolina and now will get to play with his brother, who had been drafted by Real Salt Lake, but never made an appearance for the club.
Also the goals picked up this week with Matt Taylor and Omar Bravo both getting braces while Herculez Gomez and Korede Aiyegbusi each scored.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Vicente Arze
Federico Bessone
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Adnan Gabeljic
Mechack Jerome
Peterson Joseph
Neal Kitson
Michal Mravec
Nelson Pizarro
Akeem Priestly
Peter Schmetz
Scott Sealy
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Did not dress in DC's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Did not dress in New England's 1-0 win over Toronto.
Bobby Convey - New York - Did not dress in New York's 2-0 win over KC.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Came off the bench and played 15 minutes in RSL's 2-0 win over Chivas.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Came off the bench and played 6 minutes in Portland's 2-0 win over Dallas.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 2-0 win over Dallas.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
Kei Kamara - Columbus - Not available until 2015 season.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 1-0 loss to New England.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 2-0 win over Dallas.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Started and played 90 minutes in San Jose's 1-0 loss to Chivas.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-1 win over Philadelphia.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 1-0 win over Edmonton.
Alex Martinez - Carolina - Came off the bench and played 11 minutes in Carolina's 2-0 win over Atlanta.
USL
Brian Fekete - Pittsburgh - Offseason.
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Jonathan Leathers - Charlotte - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Auerbach - Germany - Came off the bench and played 26 minutes, scoring a goal in Auerbach's 2-1 win over Neustrelitz.
Scott Angevine - Vasa - Finland - Offseason.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and playd 90 minutes, scoring twice in Chivas' 3-3 win over Tijuana.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Tied UAEM Potros 0-0.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Offseason.
Eloy Colombano - AD Berazategui - Argentina - Tied General Lamadrid 0-0.
Daneil Cyrus - Ha Noi T&T (W Connection) - Vietnam (Trinidad) - Offseason.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not play in Cucuta's 1-0 win over Bogota.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Started and played 90 minutes in Wigan's 2-1 win over Derby.
Herculez Gomez - Tigres - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Tigres' 2-0 Copa MX win over Toluca. Started and played 64 minutes, scoring a goal in Tigres' 2-2 draw with Monterrey.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Offseason.
Jeferson - América RN - Brazil - Dressed but did not play in America's 2-1 loss to America Mineiro.
Will John - Maghreb Fes - Morocco - Defeated FAR Rabat 1-0 in the cup. Tied RSB Berkane 1-1.
Igor Kostrov - Veris - Moldova - Defeated Dinamo-Auto 5-0.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Did not dress in San Martin's 1-1 draw wtih UTC Cajamarca.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Dressed but did not play in Servette's 1-0 win over Wohlen.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Came off the bench and played 19 minutes in Spartak's 1-1 draw with Lokomotiv Moscow.
Pablo Punyed - Stjarnan - Iceland - Offseason.
Oriol Rosell - Sporting Club de Portugal - Portugal - Dressed but did not play in Sporting's 4-2 win over Maritimo.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in Blackburn's 3-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Defeated Travnik 3-2 in the Cup. Started and played 45 minutes in Sarajevo's 5-0 win over Radnik Bijeljina.
Matt Taylor - Saarbrücken - Germany - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring two goals in Saarbrucken's 4-1 win over Pirmasens.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 2-2 draw wtih Atletico Venezuela.
Also the goals picked up this week with Matt Taylor and Omar Bravo both getting braces while Herculez Gomez and Korede Aiyegbusi each scored.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Vicente Arze
Federico Bessone
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Adnan Gabeljic
Mechack Jerome
Peterson Joseph
Neal Kitson
Michal Mravec
Nelson Pizarro
Akeem Priestly
Peter Schmetz
Scott Sealy
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Did not dress in DC's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Did not dress in New England's 1-0 win over Toronto.
Bobby Convey - New York - Did not dress in New York's 2-0 win over KC.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Came off the bench and played 15 minutes in RSL's 2-0 win over Chivas.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Came off the bench and played 6 minutes in Portland's 2-0 win over Dallas.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 2-0 win over Dallas.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
Kei Kamara - Columbus - Not available until 2015 season.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 1-0 loss to New England.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 2-0 win over Dallas.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Started and played 90 minutes in San Jose's 1-0 loss to Chivas.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 2-1 win over Philadelphia.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 1-0 win over Edmonton.
Alex Martinez - Carolina - Came off the bench and played 11 minutes in Carolina's 2-0 win over Atlanta.
USL
Brian Fekete - Pittsburgh - Offseason.
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Jonathan Leathers - Charlotte - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Auerbach - Germany - Came off the bench and played 26 minutes, scoring a goal in Auerbach's 2-1 win over Neustrelitz.
Scott Angevine - Vasa - Finland - Offseason.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and playd 90 minutes, scoring twice in Chivas' 3-3 win over Tijuana.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Tied UAEM Potros 0-0.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Offseason.
Eloy Colombano - AD Berazategui - Argentina - Tied General Lamadrid 0-0.
Daneil Cyrus - Ha Noi T&T (W Connection) - Vietnam (Trinidad) - Offseason.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not play in Cucuta's 1-0 win over Bogota.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Started and played 90 minutes in Wigan's 2-1 win over Derby.
Herculez Gomez - Tigres - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Tigres' 2-0 Copa MX win over Toluca. Started and played 64 minutes, scoring a goal in Tigres' 2-2 draw with Monterrey.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Offseason.
Jeferson - América RN - Brazil - Dressed but did not play in America's 2-1 loss to America Mineiro.
Will John - Maghreb Fes - Morocco - Defeated FAR Rabat 1-0 in the cup. Tied RSB Berkane 1-1.
Igor Kostrov - Veris - Moldova - Defeated Dinamo-Auto 5-0.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Did not dress in San Martin's 1-1 draw wtih UTC Cajamarca.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Dressed but did not play in Servette's 1-0 win over Wohlen.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Came off the bench and played 19 minutes in Spartak's 1-1 draw with Lokomotiv Moscow.
Pablo Punyed - Stjarnan - Iceland - Offseason.
Oriol Rosell - Sporting Club de Portugal - Portugal - Dressed but did not play in Sporting's 4-2 win over Maritimo.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in Blackburn's 3-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Defeated Travnik 3-2 in the Cup. Started and played 45 minutes in Sarajevo's 5-0 win over Radnik Bijeljina.
Matt Taylor - Saarbrücken - Germany - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring two goals in Saarbrucken's 4-1 win over Pirmasens.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 2-2 draw wtih Atletico Venezuela.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Update on Academy Products in College
Class of 2010
Brandon Fricke (Butler University) - D - RSr - Started in Butler's 1-0 los to Villanova.
Class of 2011
Eric Hymer (Fort Hays State) - D - Sr - Started in Fort Hays' 2-1 win over Lindenwood. Started in Fort Hays 1-1 draw with Northeastern State.
Raymond Lee (Saint Louis University) - MF - Sr - Started and scored a goal in Saint Louis' 2-2 draw with Dayton.
Eric Moore (Rockhurst University) - D - Sr - Did not play in Rockhurst's 1-0 win over Drury. Came on as a substitute in Rockhurst's 1-0 loss to Missouri S&T.
Michael Oakley (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Paul Oliver (California Baptist) - D/MF - Sr - Started in Cal Baptist's 3-1 loss to Fresno Pacific. Started in Cal Baptist's 3-2 OT loss to Azusa Pacific.
Jordan Rideout (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Taylor Vinnage (Benedictine) - GK - Sr - Started in Benedictine's 3-2 loss to Culver-Stockton.
Class of 2012
Andrew Brown (Bradley University) - MF - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Bradley's 1-0 OT loss to Omaha. Started in Bradley's 1-0 loss to Missouri State.
Eric DeJulio (Creighton University) - D - Jr - Started in #2 Creighton's 1-0 loss to #17 Georgetown.
Daniel Hare (Loyola University in Chicago) - D - Jr - Started in Loyola's 3-2 win over UIC. Started in Loyola's 1-1 draw with Central Arkansas.
Andrew Lightner (Dayton) - D - RSo - Started in Dayton's 2-2 draw with Saint Louis.
Andrew Miller (Baker University) - D - Jr - Did not play in Baker's 1-1 draw with Avila.
Nate Opperman (University of Evansville) - F - Jr - Started in Evansville's 3-0 loss to Louisville. Came on as a substitute and had an assist in Evansville's 4-1 win over Drake.
Derek Schrick (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - Jr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Chris Tuso (Baker) - MF - Jr - Did not play in Baker's 1-1 draw with Avila.
Shane Woods (Drury University) - F - Jr - Did not play in either of Drury's games.
Class of 2013
Joe Amico (Jacksonville) - D - So - Came on as a substitute in Jacksonville's 1-0 loss to Georgia State. Startd in Jacksonville's 1-0 loss to Stetson.
Chris Arce (Neosho CC) - MF - So - Defeated Allen 2-1 in OT.
Matt Bernard (Drake) - MF - RFr - Did not play in either of Drake's games.
Paul Dean (Rockhurst University) - D - So - Started and had an assist in Rockhurst's 1-0 win over Drury. Started in Rockhurst's 1-0 loss to Missouri S&T.
Seo-In Kim (Duke) - MF - So - Started in Duke's 2-1 loss to Elon. Came on as a substitute in Duke's 2-1 win over Pittsburgh.
Adam Lightner (Northern Illinois University) - D - So - Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 4-1 win over SIU Edwardsville. Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 2-1 loss to Buffalo.
Clay Stewart - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF/D - So - Started in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Wes White (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - RFr - Started and had a goal and an assist in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Started and had an assist in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Austin Wilcox (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute and scored a goal in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Started in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Drew Wilson (Fort Hays State University) - D - So - Started in Fort Hays' 2-1 win over Lindenwood. Started and scored a goal in Fort Hays' 1-1 draw with Northeastern.
Kyle Vassar - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - RFr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games
Class of 2014
Darby Cronin (University of Missouri Kansas City)- MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Andrew Dittemore (Missouri State) - GK - Fr - Did not play Missouri State's 1-0 win over Bradley.
Andy Ericks (Colorado School of Mines) - MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Colorado's 1-0 loss to Colorado-Colorado Springs. Came on as a substitute in Colorado's 3-0 win over Regis.
Heath Honold (Wake Forest) - F - Fr - Did not play in either of Wake's games.
Mason Leonard (Drake) - D - Fr - Started in Drake's 1-1 draw with Western Illinois. Started in Drake's 4-1 loss to Evansville.
Blake Levine (Baker) - F - Fr - Started in Baker's 1-1 draw with Avila.
Matthew Lewis (Fordham) - D - Fr - Started in Fordham's 2-0 loss to Massachusetts.
Andy Lopez (North Carolina) - MF - Fr - Did not play in UNC's 2-0 win over Boston College.
Noah Mudd (Trevecca) - D - Fr - Started in Trevecca's 2-0 loss to Shorter. Started in Trevecca's 7-2 loss to Cedarville.
Joey Piatczyc (West Virginia) - MF - Fr - Started in West Virginia's 2-1 win over Penn State. Started in West Virginia's 2-1 win over Bowling Green.
Cole Stevenson (Denver) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Denver's 3-1 loss to Omaha.
Austin Williamson (Northeastern State University) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Northeastern's games.
Zach Wright (North Carolina) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UNC's 2-0 win over Boston College.
Brandon Fricke (Butler University) - D - RSr - Started in Butler's 1-0 los to Villanova.
Class of 2011
Eric Hymer (Fort Hays State) - D - Sr - Started in Fort Hays' 2-1 win over Lindenwood. Started in Fort Hays 1-1 draw with Northeastern State.
Raymond Lee (Saint Louis University) - MF - Sr - Started and scored a goal in Saint Louis' 2-2 draw with Dayton.
Eric Moore (Rockhurst University) - D - Sr - Did not play in Rockhurst's 1-0 win over Drury. Came on as a substitute in Rockhurst's 1-0 loss to Missouri S&T.
Michael Oakley (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Paul Oliver (California Baptist) - D/MF - Sr - Started in Cal Baptist's 3-1 loss to Fresno Pacific. Started in Cal Baptist's 3-2 OT loss to Azusa Pacific.
Jordan Rideout (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Taylor Vinnage (Benedictine) - GK - Sr - Started in Benedictine's 3-2 loss to Culver-Stockton.
Class of 2012
Andrew Brown (Bradley University) - MF - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Bradley's 1-0 OT loss to Omaha. Started in Bradley's 1-0 loss to Missouri State.
Eric DeJulio (Creighton University) - D - Jr - Started in #2 Creighton's 1-0 loss to #17 Georgetown.
Daniel Hare (Loyola University in Chicago) - D - Jr - Started in Loyola's 3-2 win over UIC. Started in Loyola's 1-1 draw with Central Arkansas.
Andrew Lightner (Dayton) - D - RSo - Started in Dayton's 2-2 draw with Saint Louis.
Andrew Miller (Baker University) - D - Jr - Did not play in Baker's 1-1 draw with Avila.
Nate Opperman (University of Evansville) - F - Jr - Started in Evansville's 3-0 loss to Louisville. Came on as a substitute and had an assist in Evansville's 4-1 win over Drake.
Derek Schrick (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - Jr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Chris Tuso (Baker) - MF - Jr - Did not play in Baker's 1-1 draw with Avila.
Shane Woods (Drury University) - F - Jr - Did not play in either of Drury's games.
Class of 2013
Joe Amico (Jacksonville) - D - So - Came on as a substitute in Jacksonville's 1-0 loss to Georgia State. Startd in Jacksonville's 1-0 loss to Stetson.
Chris Arce (Neosho CC) - MF - So - Defeated Allen 2-1 in OT.
Matt Bernard (Drake) - MF - RFr - Did not play in either of Drake's games.
Paul Dean (Rockhurst University) - D - So - Started and had an assist in Rockhurst's 1-0 win over Drury. Started in Rockhurst's 1-0 loss to Missouri S&T.
Seo-In Kim (Duke) - MF - So - Started in Duke's 2-1 loss to Elon. Came on as a substitute in Duke's 2-1 win over Pittsburgh.
Adam Lightner (Northern Illinois University) - D - So - Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 4-1 win over SIU Edwardsville. Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 2-1 loss to Buffalo.
Clay Stewart - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF/D - So - Started in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Wes White (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - RFr - Started and had a goal and an assist in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Started and had an assist in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Austin Wilcox (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute and scored a goal in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Started in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Drew Wilson (Fort Hays State University) - D - So - Started in Fort Hays' 2-1 win over Lindenwood. Started and scored a goal in Fort Hays' 1-1 draw with Northeastern.
Kyle Vassar - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - RFr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games
Class of 2014
Darby Cronin (University of Missouri Kansas City)- MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 win over Seattle. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-0 win over Utah Valley.
Andrew Dittemore (Missouri State) - GK - Fr - Did not play Missouri State's 1-0 win over Bradley.
Andy Ericks (Colorado School of Mines) - MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Colorado's 1-0 loss to Colorado-Colorado Springs. Came on as a substitute in Colorado's 3-0 win over Regis.
Heath Honold (Wake Forest) - F - Fr - Did not play in either of Wake's games.
Mason Leonard (Drake) - D - Fr - Started in Drake's 1-1 draw with Western Illinois. Started in Drake's 4-1 loss to Evansville.
Blake Levine (Baker) - F - Fr - Started in Baker's 1-1 draw with Avila.
Matthew Lewis (Fordham) - D - Fr - Started in Fordham's 2-0 loss to Massachusetts.
Andy Lopez (North Carolina) - MF - Fr - Did not play in UNC's 2-0 win over Boston College.
Noah Mudd (Trevecca) - D - Fr - Started in Trevecca's 2-0 loss to Shorter. Started in Trevecca's 7-2 loss to Cedarville.
Joey Piatczyc (West Virginia) - MF - Fr - Started in West Virginia's 2-1 win over Penn State. Started in West Virginia's 2-1 win over Bowling Green.
Cole Stevenson (Denver) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Denver's 3-1 loss to Omaha.
Austin Williamson (Northeastern State University) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Northeastern's games.
Zach Wright (North Carolina) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UNC's 2-0 win over Boston College.
S.A.S. Monday After Stats
Matt Besler made his 150th appearance in league play for Kansas City, he's the 8th player to hit that mark for KC.
Besler also broke his tie with Mo Johnston and Michael Harrington for league appearances and now has sole possession of 8th place.
In the 23rd minute, Graham Zusi moved past Josh Wolff and into 13th place for minutes played in all competitions. He finished the game with 13,007 minutes played.
Dom Dwyer made his 50th league appearance for KC, he's the 53rd player to hit that mark for KC.
Seth Sinovic made his 141st appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez and CJ Sapong for 19th on that list.
Besler also broke his tie with Mo Johnston and Michael Harrington for league appearances and now has sole possession of 8th place.
In the 23rd minute, Graham Zusi moved past Josh Wolff and into 13th place for minutes played in all competitions. He finished the game with 13,007 minutes played.
Dom Dwyer made his 50th league appearance for KC, he's the 53rd player to hit that mark for KC.
Seth Sinovic made his 141st appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez and CJ Sapong for 19th on that list.
Sporting KC is Headed Back West
The long rumored demise of Chivas USA was finally confirmed today by MLS. The team has ceased operations and their players will be dispersed via a draft. The team folding and the addition of New York City FC and Orlando City SC means that the Eastern Conference has 12 teams and the West has only 8, meaning realignment has taken place as well.
As part of the realignment, Sporting Kansas City is heading back to the Western Conference along with the Houston Dynamo. Kansas City started in the West when MLS was launched in 1996. KC was in the conference until the 2005 season when they moved to the East to accommodate the additions of Chivas USA and Real Salt Lake. So after 10 years in the East, Sporting will now get to attempt to rebuild rivalries with Colorado, Dallas, and LA that were lost a bit with the move to the East. It, I feel, has been one of the blows for KC in creating a rivalry. KC and Dallas originally looked like they could develop one after the playoffs in 1996, but the addition of Chicago in 1998 and the creation of the Brimstone Cup helped to stop that. Then came the move East where the likes of Chicago and Columbus, KC's two closest Eastern rivals already had developed rivalries with teams. Sporting, with the rebranding tried to force the Chicago match up to become a rivalry, but it never really succeeded. The team did develop an on field rivalry with the Houston Dynamo, and they'll get to attempt to keep that with the move, but will now have to fight Dallas for that.
While the West is hands down the better conference, the same was true when KC originally moved East back in 2005. DC had just won MLS Cup over Kansas City, the Columbus Crew had won the Supporters' Shield (also over KC), and the Wizards had just won the US Open Cup.
Now we flip the script back to the West where Seattle holds two of the three trophies currently.
The good news for KC is that Sporting has done well against the West over the last few years, going 21-12-12 since the start of the 2011 season. They'll certainly need that sort of form to continue as they wouldn't have made the playoffs this year if they were in the West, finishing behind fifth place Vancouver who had 50 points.
The West will now have the last 10 MLS Cup finalists in the conference next season. It goes without saying, the West will be stacked next year. And with the new schedule, KC will play six of the teams three times next year, the other three they will play twice. Like this year KC would play each team in the other conference once a year.
As a KC fan who lived through Lamar Hunt putting this team up for sale I had a sense of dread in the pit of my stomach. That dread is now what has manifested for Chivas fans. I know they didn't have a whole lot, neither did KC when Hunt put the team up for sale. My heart does go out to the die hard Chivas fans that I've met.
As part of the realignment, Sporting Kansas City is heading back to the Western Conference along with the Houston Dynamo. Kansas City started in the West when MLS was launched in 1996. KC was in the conference until the 2005 season when they moved to the East to accommodate the additions of Chivas USA and Real Salt Lake. So after 10 years in the East, Sporting will now get to attempt to rebuild rivalries with Colorado, Dallas, and LA that were lost a bit with the move to the East. It, I feel, has been one of the blows for KC in creating a rivalry. KC and Dallas originally looked like they could develop one after the playoffs in 1996, but the addition of Chicago in 1998 and the creation of the Brimstone Cup helped to stop that. Then came the move East where the likes of Chicago and Columbus, KC's two closest Eastern rivals already had developed rivalries with teams. Sporting, with the rebranding tried to force the Chicago match up to become a rivalry, but it never really succeeded. The team did develop an on field rivalry with the Houston Dynamo, and they'll get to attempt to keep that with the move, but will now have to fight Dallas for that.
While the West is hands down the better conference, the same was true when KC originally moved East back in 2005. DC had just won MLS Cup over Kansas City, the Columbus Crew had won the Supporters' Shield (also over KC), and the Wizards had just won the US Open Cup.
Now we flip the script back to the West where Seattle holds two of the three trophies currently.
The good news for KC is that Sporting has done well against the West over the last few years, going 21-12-12 since the start of the 2011 season. They'll certainly need that sort of form to continue as they wouldn't have made the playoffs this year if they were in the West, finishing behind fifth place Vancouver who had 50 points.
The West will now have the last 10 MLS Cup finalists in the conference next season. It goes without saying, the West will be stacked next year. And with the new schedule, KC will play six of the teams three times next year, the other three they will play twice. Like this year KC would play each team in the other conference once a year.
As a KC fan who lived through Lamar Hunt putting this team up for sale I had a sense of dread in the pit of my stomach. That dread is now what has manifested for Chivas fans. I know they didn't have a whole lot, neither did KC when Hunt put the team up for sale. My heart does go out to the die hard Chivas fans that I've met.
Sporting Loss Sees them Drop to the Fifth Seed
Sporting Kansas City's late season form continued to hurt them on Sunday at home against the New York Red Bulls as Sporting fell 2-0 at home to New York, dropping them from the third seed to the fifth seed, meaning a trip to New York on Thursday in an attempt to make the conference semifinals.
Kansas City came out with some fire looking to strike early. Dom Dwyer got played in with space behind New York in the eighth minute, but had his shot saved by Luis Robles and got cleared for a throw. Unfortunately for KC it'd really be their only shot on goal in the first half. KC had another opportunity in the 10th as Jacob Peterson played a decent lofted ball in to the back post for Kevin Ellis, but the right back put his effort over the bar giving New York a goal kick. In the 15th minute, Kansas City paid for not making more of the earlier opportunities as Bradley Wright-Phillips got played in behind KC's defense and beat Eric Kronberg to give New York the lead. Eric Alexander picked out the Golden Boot winner with a nice through ball that Ellis couldn't get a touch on. The Englishman then slotted the ball to the far post giving New York the 1-0 lead. With the lead, New York became the aggressor and KC's defense had to be on alert to keep New York from doubling the lead as Aurelien Collin and Matt Besler stepped up to block efforts from New York's attackers. KC couldn't create enough offensively in the first half to challenge New York, and dug themselves a hole that they'd have to try to dig out of in the second half.
In the second half, New York continued to be the more aggressive side. In the 54th minute they almost grabbed a second as a corner kick played to the back post was headed on goal by Dax McCarthy but Sal Zizzo was on the line to knock the ball away. In the 70th minute, New York doubled their lead. A long ball over the top for Wright-Phillips caused Collin a number of problems as he first tired to hold off the Englishman before losing the ball. Wright-Phillips collected the ball and lost Collin. Wright-Phillips started to attack Besler before cutting back and firing a shot inside the near post of Kronberg to double New York's lead and send KC reeling into the play in game. Down two goals, KC struggled to create opportunities, and it was New York that had the better chances on the counter. Wright-Phillips almost picked up the hattrick in the 83rd as he got played in behind KC's defense, but Kronberg came up with a big save and there was no one in the middle as Wright-Phillips tried to lay the ball off to a teammate. KC never seemed to really threaten the New York net late on as KC fell for the 5th time at home in league play this season, the most since the team rebranded after the 2010 season.
Wizards Man of the Match - None - Really no one stood out at all when it came to their work on the field. No one looked like they wanted to take over and really lift this team when they were struggling to create chances offensively. No one on defense had a shut down defense that stopped the New York attack from going, and no one in the midfield really controlled the game. Overall it just wasn't a great performance.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 4, Ellis 4, Collin 3, Besler 3, Sinovic 3, Olum 1, Nagamura 4, Zusi 4, Peterson 4, Dwyer 3, Zizzo 2. Subs Lopez 3, Dovale 3, Bieler 3.
Kansas City came out with some fire looking to strike early. Dom Dwyer got played in with space behind New York in the eighth minute, but had his shot saved by Luis Robles and got cleared for a throw. Unfortunately for KC it'd really be their only shot on goal in the first half. KC had another opportunity in the 10th as Jacob Peterson played a decent lofted ball in to the back post for Kevin Ellis, but the right back put his effort over the bar giving New York a goal kick. In the 15th minute, Kansas City paid for not making more of the earlier opportunities as Bradley Wright-Phillips got played in behind KC's defense and beat Eric Kronberg to give New York the lead. Eric Alexander picked out the Golden Boot winner with a nice through ball that Ellis couldn't get a touch on. The Englishman then slotted the ball to the far post giving New York the 1-0 lead. With the lead, New York became the aggressor and KC's defense had to be on alert to keep New York from doubling the lead as Aurelien Collin and Matt Besler stepped up to block efforts from New York's attackers. KC couldn't create enough offensively in the first half to challenge New York, and dug themselves a hole that they'd have to try to dig out of in the second half.
In the second half, New York continued to be the more aggressive side. In the 54th minute they almost grabbed a second as a corner kick played to the back post was headed on goal by Dax McCarthy but Sal Zizzo was on the line to knock the ball away. In the 70th minute, New York doubled their lead. A long ball over the top for Wright-Phillips caused Collin a number of problems as he first tired to hold off the Englishman before losing the ball. Wright-Phillips collected the ball and lost Collin. Wright-Phillips started to attack Besler before cutting back and firing a shot inside the near post of Kronberg to double New York's lead and send KC reeling into the play in game. Down two goals, KC struggled to create opportunities, and it was New York that had the better chances on the counter. Wright-Phillips almost picked up the hattrick in the 83rd as he got played in behind KC's defense, but Kronberg came up with a big save and there was no one in the middle as Wright-Phillips tried to lay the ball off to a teammate. KC never seemed to really threaten the New York net late on as KC fell for the 5th time at home in league play this season, the most since the team rebranded after the 2010 season.
Wizards Man of the Match - None - Really no one stood out at all when it came to their work on the field. No one looked like they wanted to take over and really lift this team when they were struggling to create chances offensively. No one on defense had a shut down defense that stopped the New York attack from going, and no one in the midfield really controlled the game. Overall it just wasn't a great performance.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 4, Ellis 4, Collin 3, Besler 3, Sinovic 3, Olum 1, Nagamura 4, Zusi 4, Peterson 4, Dwyer 3, Zizzo 2. Subs Lopez 3, Dovale 3, Bieler 3.
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Comets Breeze Past Dallas in Season Opener
The Missouri Comets opened the 2014-2015 inaugural season of the MASL last night in Dallas against the Dallas Sidekicks. The Sidekick had been a solid playoff team last year in the PASL, losing just 2 games, and going undefeated at home.
Last night though, the Comets showed the talent gap that would appear to exist between the old MISL and the PASL teams. Missouri took the game to the Sidekicks, jumping out to a 4-0 lead and holding a 6-2 lead at half time before winning 13-4.
With the new single point scoring system, that the Comets play the score may not look as impressive as other wins may have last year, but against a Dallas side that was pretty good and was very good at home, the win is impressive.
The Comets got goals from seven different players in the game, including four from Leo Gibson and three from Vahid Assadpour both of whom also chipped in two assists. Assadpour opened the scoring just under four minutes into the game. Shortly after, Alain Matingou scored his first goal for the Comets to double the lead. Brian Harris, last year's MISL Finals MVP finished the first quarter scoring a few minutes before the break.
The second quarter saw the Comets continue their strong play as Gibson got his first of the game just over a minute into the game. Dallas did find the net just before the 10 minute mark in the quarter, but the Comets responded two times before the half as Gibson scored on a shoot out attempt and Coady Andrews scored on the break to make it 6-1 before Dallas scored a second seconds before half time to end the half at 6-2.
The third quarter, the Comets were able to extend their lead. After Milan Ivanovic and Dallas' Cameron Brown traded goals early on, the Comets scored four unanswered goals through Assadpour, Andrew Braithwaite, and two more power play goals from Gibson to end the quarter up 11-3.
The Sidekicks cup into the lead in the fourth and ended Missouri's string of goals early in the quarter. The Comets though seemed content to sit back some and just let the clock run out. They did find time though to add two more goals late in the quarter as Ivanovic and Assadpour both found net again to finish off Dallas 13-4.
The Comets will now head to Chicago to take on another former PASL team, last year's champions the Chicago Mustangs. So it'll be a champ vs champ match up. This may be the bigger test of the talent level between the old MISL teams and the PASL teams.
Last night though, the Comets showed the talent gap that would appear to exist between the old MISL and the PASL teams. Missouri took the game to the Sidekicks, jumping out to a 4-0 lead and holding a 6-2 lead at half time before winning 13-4.
With the new single point scoring system, that the Comets play the score may not look as impressive as other wins may have last year, but against a Dallas side that was pretty good and was very good at home, the win is impressive.
The Comets got goals from seven different players in the game, including four from Leo Gibson and three from Vahid Assadpour both of whom also chipped in two assists. Assadpour opened the scoring just under four minutes into the game. Shortly after, Alain Matingou scored his first goal for the Comets to double the lead. Brian Harris, last year's MISL Finals MVP finished the first quarter scoring a few minutes before the break.
The second quarter saw the Comets continue their strong play as Gibson got his first of the game just over a minute into the game. Dallas did find the net just before the 10 minute mark in the quarter, but the Comets responded two times before the half as Gibson scored on a shoot out attempt and Coady Andrews scored on the break to make it 6-1 before Dallas scored a second seconds before half time to end the half at 6-2.
The third quarter, the Comets were able to extend their lead. After Milan Ivanovic and Dallas' Cameron Brown traded goals early on, the Comets scored four unanswered goals through Assadpour, Andrew Braithwaite, and two more power play goals from Gibson to end the quarter up 11-3.
The Sidekicks cup into the lead in the fourth and ended Missouri's string of goals early in the quarter. The Comets though seemed content to sit back some and just let the clock run out. They did find time though to add two more goals late in the quarter as Ivanovic and Assadpour both found net again to finish off Dallas 13-4.
The Comets will now head to Chicago to take on another former PASL team, last year's champions the Chicago Mustangs. So it'll be a champ vs champ match up. This may be the bigger test of the talent level between the old MISL teams and the PASL teams.
What We Want to Happen 10/26
I haven't been doing these "what we want to happen" the past few game days because with Kansas City's position, none of the games have really had an effect on Kansas City. Today though, there is a big game that could have implications on Kansas City.
Philadelphia at Columbus
What we want to happen - Columbus loss
A loss by the Crew before Sporting even takes the field against New York would guarantee that KC at least hosts the play in game next week. Because the worst KC could then do is finish tied 49 points with the Crew, but KC holds the more wins tie breaker. Unfortunately I don't see that happening today, but it's what KC wants to happen.
Philadelphia at Columbus
What we want to happen - Columbus loss
A loss by the Crew before Sporting even takes the field against New York would guarantee that KC at least hosts the play in game next week. Because the worst KC could then do is finish tied 49 points with the Crew, but KC holds the more wins tie breaker. Unfortunately I don't see that happening today, but it's what KC wants to happen.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Match Day 34 - Looking for Some Form
Heading into the final league game of the season Sporting Kansas City is looking to find some semblance of the form that they had earlier in the season and last season. Sporting has really struggled the second half of this season. Of the playoff teams, Kansas City has probably the worst record in the last 10 games, only 3-6-1 in those games heading into tomorrow's game against New York. The game is of huge importance to both teams as both are trying to find a way to finish in third place and avoid next week's play in game. New York needs to win and hop Columbus don't win, while just a win will guarantee the third seed for Kansas City.
New York comes into this game having lost last week to the Columbus Crew 3-1, a disappointing result against a fellow playoff team, especially at home. Like KC, New York had a midweek game, but unlike KC, the game was meaningless for New York who was already eliminated from advancing in the Champions League. Tomorrow's game could very well be a big turning point for New York, it could be the last regular season game in MLS for both Thierry Henry and Tim Cahill as Henry is out of contract and Cahill has been discontent this year, so this could be the final league game for both of New York's DPs. The Red Bulls are still dangerous with the likes of Henry and the likely golden boot winner, Bradley Wright-Phillips.
Kansas City is a hurt, tired, run down team at this point. They'll be playing their third game in nine days in three different cities tomorrow after trips to Philadelphia, San Jose, and Kansas City, at least four players who started in the first two games will likely start the third. There's also the possibility of another player being added to that list if Matt Besler is not able to return. They'll also be going into the game with more injuries, as Benny Feilhaber is set to miss the game after turning his ankle against Saprissa. Kansas City will also have to deal with a makeshift right back as Igor Juliao is suspended and Jacob Peterson will likely be the one to fill in for him.
Number to Remember - 0 - Since July 19th, when Sporting KC beat Los Angeles 2-1, Sporting KC has gone 0-4-1 against playoff teams (if Vancouver defeates Colorado tonight KC's record will fall to 0-5-1). On the season KC only has four wins in 15 games against playoff teams. Sporting's record has just not been good enough against the top of the table.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin/Jacob Peterson vs Bradley Wright-Phillips - I expect Peterson to fill in for the suspended Igor Juliao at right back. Earlier this year in Kansas City, Bradley Wright-Phillips found space between Juliao and Aurelien Collin and was able to exploit it and scored a goal against KC to earn a 1-1 draw. With a player who hasn't spent a lot of time at outside back, Collin is going to need to be communicating with his right back a lot to make sure the two stay in synch.
PREDICTION - New York is not good on the road, with only two wins away from home this year. Meanwhile KC is not that great of a team at home, having a 6-4-6 record at Sporting Park. For me this game has a draw written all over it. Kansas City is going to have a lot of tired legs from Thursday nigh in Costa Rica. That'll lead to some mistakes for the back line. New York though is poor defensively and will leave space for Kansas City to exploit. Unfortunately with all of KC's issues defensively and the makeshift back line, I am not sure that KC is going to be able to stop KC's attack. And with Columbus playing Philadelphia at home I expect these two teams will likely meet again mid-week in the play-in game.
SKC - 2 (Dwyer, Zusi)
RBNY - 2 (Henry, Wright-Phillips)
New York comes into this game having lost last week to the Columbus Crew 3-1, a disappointing result against a fellow playoff team, especially at home. Like KC, New York had a midweek game, but unlike KC, the game was meaningless for New York who was already eliminated from advancing in the Champions League. Tomorrow's game could very well be a big turning point for New York, it could be the last regular season game in MLS for both Thierry Henry and Tim Cahill as Henry is out of contract and Cahill has been discontent this year, so this could be the final league game for both of New York's DPs. The Red Bulls are still dangerous with the likes of Henry and the likely golden boot winner, Bradley Wright-Phillips.
Kansas City is a hurt, tired, run down team at this point. They'll be playing their third game in nine days in three different cities tomorrow after trips to Philadelphia, San Jose, and Kansas City, at least four players who started in the first two games will likely start the third. There's also the possibility of another player being added to that list if Matt Besler is not able to return. They'll also be going into the game with more injuries, as Benny Feilhaber is set to miss the game after turning his ankle against Saprissa. Kansas City will also have to deal with a makeshift right back as Igor Juliao is suspended and Jacob Peterson will likely be the one to fill in for him.
Kronberg
Peterson - Collin - Ellis - Sinovic
Olum - Nagamura
Zusi
Zizzo - Dwyer - Dovale
Number to Remember - 0 - Since July 19th, when Sporting KC beat Los Angeles 2-1, Sporting KC has gone 0-4-1 against playoff teams (if Vancouver defeates Colorado tonight KC's record will fall to 0-5-1). On the season KC only has four wins in 15 games against playoff teams. Sporting's record has just not been good enough against the top of the table.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin/Jacob Peterson vs Bradley Wright-Phillips - I expect Peterson to fill in for the suspended Igor Juliao at right back. Earlier this year in Kansas City, Bradley Wright-Phillips found space between Juliao and Aurelien Collin and was able to exploit it and scored a goal against KC to earn a 1-1 draw. With a player who hasn't spent a lot of time at outside back, Collin is going to need to be communicating with his right back a lot to make sure the two stay in synch.
PREDICTION - New York is not good on the road, with only two wins away from home this year. Meanwhile KC is not that great of a team at home, having a 6-4-6 record at Sporting Park. For me this game has a draw written all over it. Kansas City is going to have a lot of tired legs from Thursday nigh in Costa Rica. That'll lead to some mistakes for the back line. New York though is poor defensively and will leave space for Kansas City to exploit. Unfortunately with all of KC's issues defensively and the makeshift back line, I am not sure that KC is going to be able to stop KC's attack. And with Columbus playing Philadelphia at home I expect these two teams will likely meet again mid-week in the play-in game.
SKC - 2 (Dwyer, Zusi)
RBNY - 2 (Henry, Wright-Phillips)
Friday, October 24, 2014
S.A.S. Friday After Stats
Not much stat wise from last night, but here are a couple.
Seth Sinovic started his 139th game in all competitions for KC, tying him with Graham Zusi for 15th on that list.
CJ Sapong made his 141st appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez for 19th on that list.
Seth Sinovic started his 139th game in all competitions for KC, tying him with Graham Zusi for 15th on that list.
CJ Sapong made his 141st appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Francisco Gomez for 19th on that list.
Sporting Bow Meekly Out of the Champions League
Sporting Kansas City's run in the CONCACAF Champions League ended in Costa Rica tonight with a 2-0 loss to Deportivo Saprissa. Sarpissa's pressure all night kept KC on the back foot and Sporting never really go going offensively, recording just one shot on goal all game.
Starting a mix of starters and reserves, Sporting immediately went onto the back foot as Saprissa locked them in their own end from the start. Eric Kronberg in KC's net was called on often to make saves. The KC goalkeeper did well to parry a shot out for a corner early on to keep the game scoreless. KC withstood the Saprissa pressure in the first 20 minutes, but in the 22nd they finally gave way. A corner by Saprissa was headed on goal by an unmarked Saprissa player. Kronberg got in front of the ball but could only push it away instead of catching it. The ball fell into the path of Heiner Mora who made no mistake from a foot away giving Saprissa a 1-0 lead. The pressure continued from Saprissa, but they couldn't find another goal as KC limited their shots on goal. The goal though wasn't the worst news of the half for KC as Sporting's injury issues came to the surface again. In the 40th minute, Benny Feilhaber turned his ankle on a routine ball and had to be replaced by Soony Saad. Then in the 45th minute, Igor Juliao appeared to pull a hamstring and he too had to be substituted beforehalf.
Coming out for the second half, things couldn't have started worse for Sporting. Saprissa immediately won a corner. The corner was only partially cleared leading to a shot from distance. The shot deflected wide to Mora who had two Saprissa players in the box unmarked. He picked out Ariel Rodriguez who beat Lawrence Olum to the ball, turning it past Kronberg and into the net to make it 2-0 Saprissa and put KC out of the tournament for the moment. With the two goal lead, Saprissa did sit back a little bit, but still looked the more dangerous side on the counter. Rodriguez almost put a poor clearance by Kronberg into the net, and Kronberg twice had to make decent saves on a shot from distance and a 1v1 situation to keep the game at 2-0. Finally in the 65th minute, KC finally got a shot on goal as Toni Dovale turned and fired an effort towards the far post that ended up being easily saved by Donny Grant. KC did create some opportunities through set pieces, included Aurelien Collin flicking a throw in from Jacob Peterson to the far post, but no one from KC was there to tap the ball home. In the end there just wasn't enough from KC offensively to really threaten Saprissa and it really never did look like KC would threaten to find a goal that would have put them through.
Wizards Man of the Match - Jacob Peterson - Really no one looked that impressive tonight, Peterson, as he seems to always do at least had a drive on the field to try to make something happen.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 4, Juliao 4, Collin 4, Ellis 5, Sinovic 4, Olum 3, Claros 3, Feilhaber 4, Sapong 3, Bieler 3, Dovale 3. Subs Saad 4, Peterson 5, Dwyer 3.
Starting a mix of starters and reserves, Sporting immediately went onto the back foot as Saprissa locked them in their own end from the start. Eric Kronberg in KC's net was called on often to make saves. The KC goalkeeper did well to parry a shot out for a corner early on to keep the game scoreless. KC withstood the Saprissa pressure in the first 20 minutes, but in the 22nd they finally gave way. A corner by Saprissa was headed on goal by an unmarked Saprissa player. Kronberg got in front of the ball but could only push it away instead of catching it. The ball fell into the path of Heiner Mora who made no mistake from a foot away giving Saprissa a 1-0 lead. The pressure continued from Saprissa, but they couldn't find another goal as KC limited their shots on goal. The goal though wasn't the worst news of the half for KC as Sporting's injury issues came to the surface again. In the 40th minute, Benny Feilhaber turned his ankle on a routine ball and had to be replaced by Soony Saad. Then in the 45th minute, Igor Juliao appeared to pull a hamstring and he too had to be substituted beforehalf.
Coming out for the second half, things couldn't have started worse for Sporting. Saprissa immediately won a corner. The corner was only partially cleared leading to a shot from distance. The shot deflected wide to Mora who had two Saprissa players in the box unmarked. He picked out Ariel Rodriguez who beat Lawrence Olum to the ball, turning it past Kronberg and into the net to make it 2-0 Saprissa and put KC out of the tournament for the moment. With the two goal lead, Saprissa did sit back a little bit, but still looked the more dangerous side on the counter. Rodriguez almost put a poor clearance by Kronberg into the net, and Kronberg twice had to make decent saves on a shot from distance and a 1v1 situation to keep the game at 2-0. Finally in the 65th minute, KC finally got a shot on goal as Toni Dovale turned and fired an effort towards the far post that ended up being easily saved by Donny Grant. KC did create some opportunities through set pieces, included Aurelien Collin flicking a throw in from Jacob Peterson to the far post, but no one from KC was there to tap the ball home. In the end there just wasn't enough from KC offensively to really threaten Saprissa and it really never did look like KC would threaten to find a goal that would have put them through.
Wizards Man of the Match - Jacob Peterson - Really no one looked that impressive tonight, Peterson, as he seems to always do at least had a drive on the field to try to make something happen.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 4, Juliao 4, Collin 4, Ellis 5, Sinovic 4, Olum 3, Claros 3, Feilhaber 4, Sapong 3, Bieler 3, Dovale 3. Subs Saad 4, Peterson 5, Dwyer 3.
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Juliao Suspended for Season Finale
Sporting Kansas City's defensive issues just got worse ahead of Sunday's game against the New York Red Bulls. Today the MLS Disciplinary Committee announced that starting right back, Igor Juliao was suspended for one game and fined for his actions in KC's 2-1 loss to Philadelphia.
In the 55th minute, Juliao cleared a ball up field just in front of Philadelphia forward, Andrew Wenger. Juliao followed through on his kick, which didn't appear to be necessary and his cleats went into Wenger's midsection. The Disciplinary Committee stated that he "endangered the safety of his opponent," leading to the suspension.
It'll leave Kansas City with limited options against the Red Bulls. If Matt Besler is available, Peter Vermes could choose to play Kevin Ellis there, even though he's spent most of the season at center back. The other option, especially if Besler is still unavailable would be for Vermes to slide Jacob Peterson back to right back again. Peterson has played the outside back position for Kansas City a couple times already this year so it wouldn't be a shock move for him. Another option would be to put Sal Zizzo there, as he played there with the Portland Timbers. But based on Vermes use of him this year, that seems unlikely.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Match Day CCL - Headed to The Monster's Cave
It's all come down to this for Sporting KC in the Champions League. They are in Costa Rica headed into the Monster's Cave for the final game of Group 2. Sporting has a number of ways to advance. KC needs a win, a draw, a one goal loss, or a two goal loss where the team scores at least two goals. A 3-1 loss would see the teams go to the eighth tie breaker, draw of lots. A 2-0 loss or a loss by more than two goals and Kansas City is done.
Since Kansas City last played Saprissa, the club has gone through some changes. The club's head coach, Ronald Gonzalez was fired by the club and replayed by sports director and former player, Jeustin Campos. Saprissa lost Campos' first game in charge, but since then, the club has rattled off five straight wins. They certainly look confident heading into the final group stage game.
Kansas City on the other hand is not having the best run of form. The injuries and fatigue has finally caught up with Sporting it'd appear. Sporting has as many wins in the CCL since the start of September (2 in 2 games) as they do in league play (2 in 7 games). And they'll head into tomorrow's game without at least two of their designated players as Matt Besler is still recovering from his thigh contusion and Graham Zusi is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. With another important league match on Sunday and KC's limited options on the field, KC is going to be struggling through these final two games.
Number to Remember - 2 - This is actually the second time that Kansas City has made a trip to the Monster's Cave. Back in 2005, the then Wizards had drawn 0-0 at Arrowhead before heading to Costa Rica. The Wizards took the lead in the second half through Jose Burciaga but gave up a late equalizer. At the time there was no away goals rule so the game went to extra time where KC gave up a second goal and lost 2-1 in the series. Kerry Zavagnin is the only member of the technical staff that was on the team at that time.
Key Match Up - Kansas City vs the Monster's Cave - Estadio Saprisa is an incredibly intimidating atmosphere. There's a reason after the US beat Costa Rica in a snow storm in Denver that the Costa Rican FA tried to get the return qualifier moved to the stadium. The fans are right on top of the field and their main supporters group, Ultra Morada will be in the stands for the game after reports originally were that they would be banned from the stadium. So it's going to likely be a crazy atmosphere tomorrow for KC to deal with, probably one of the more intense ones most of KC's players have ever seen.
PREDICTION - This is going to be an extremely difficult game for KC. Saprissa is playing well right now and with the home field advantage will be extremely tough to beat at home. With the way that Kansas City is playing right now I'm not sure that this team will get the result that they need to go through.
SKC - 0
SAP - 3 (Rodriguez x2, Ramirez)
Since Kansas City last played Saprissa, the club has gone through some changes. The club's head coach, Ronald Gonzalez was fired by the club and replayed by sports director and former player, Jeustin Campos. Saprissa lost Campos' first game in charge, but since then, the club has rattled off five straight wins. They certainly look confident heading into the final group stage game.
Kansas City on the other hand is not having the best run of form. The injuries and fatigue has finally caught up with Sporting it'd appear. Sporting has as many wins in the CCL since the start of September (2 in 2 games) as they do in league play (2 in 7 games). And they'll head into tomorrow's game without at least two of their designated players as Matt Besler is still recovering from his thigh contusion and Graham Zusi is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. With another important league match on Sunday and KC's limited options on the field, KC is going to be struggling through these final two games.
Kronberg
Juliao - Collin - Ellis - Sinovic
Olum - Lopez
Feilahber
Sapong - Dwyer - Dovale
Number to Remember - 2 - This is actually the second time that Kansas City has made a trip to the Monster's Cave. Back in 2005, the then Wizards had drawn 0-0 at Arrowhead before heading to Costa Rica. The Wizards took the lead in the second half through Jose Burciaga but gave up a late equalizer. At the time there was no away goals rule so the game went to extra time where KC gave up a second goal and lost 2-1 in the series. Kerry Zavagnin is the only member of the technical staff that was on the team at that time.
Key Match Up - Kansas City vs the Monster's Cave - Estadio Saprisa is an incredibly intimidating atmosphere. There's a reason after the US beat Costa Rica in a snow storm in Denver that the Costa Rican FA tried to get the return qualifier moved to the stadium. The fans are right on top of the field and their main supporters group, Ultra Morada will be in the stands for the game after reports originally were that they would be banned from the stadium. So it's going to likely be a crazy atmosphere tomorrow for KC to deal with, probably one of the more intense ones most of KC's players have ever seen.
PREDICTION - This is going to be an extremely difficult game for KC. Saprissa is playing well right now and with the home field advantage will be extremely tough to beat at home. With the way that Kansas City is playing right now I'm not sure that this team will get the result that they need to go through.
SKC - 0
SAP - 3 (Rodriguez x2, Ramirez)
Former SKC Wizards Update
Here is this week's former SKC Wizards update.
Active without a club or unknown
Vicente Arze
Federico Bessone
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Adnan Gabeljic
Mechack Jerome
Peterson Joseph
Neal Kitson
Michal Mravec
Nelson Pizarro
Akeem Priestly
Peter Schmetz
Scott Sealy
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 2-1 win over Chicago.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Did not dress in New England's 2-1 win over Houston.
Bobby Convey - New York - Did not dress in New York's 3-1 loss to Columbus.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 89 minutes in RSL's 0-0 draw with Portland.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 0-0 draw with RSL. Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 3-1 loss to Olimpia.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 0-0 draw with RSL. Did not dress in Portland's 3-1 loss to Olimpia.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Started and played 76 minutes recording a goal and an assist in DC's 2-1 win over Chicago.
Kei Kamara - Columbus - Not available until 2015 season.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Dessed but did not play in Toronto's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 0-0 draw with RSL. Dressed but did not play in Portland's 3-1 loss to Olimpia.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Started and played 90 minutes in San Jose's 0-0 draw with Vancouver.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 3-1 win over New York.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 1-1 draw with Carolina.
USL
Brian Fekete - Pittsburgh - Offseason.
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Jonathan Leathers - Charlotte - Offseason.
Alex Martinez - Orange County - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason.
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Auerbach - Germany - Started and played 25 minutes in Auerbach's 2-0 loss to Germania Halberstadt.
Scott Angevine - Vasa - Finland - Did not play in Vasa's 3-0 loss to PS Kemi.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Chivas' 2-1 loss to Leon. Did not dress in Chivas' 5-0 Copa Mexico loss to Santos.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - No game this week.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Offseason.
Eloy Colombano - AD Berazategui - Argentina - Lost 2-0 to Deportivo Riestra.
Daneil Cyrus - Ha Noi T&T (W Connection) - Vietnam (Trinidad) - Offseason.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not play in Cucuta's 0-0 draw wtih Expreso Rojo. Came off the bench and played 1 minute in Cucuta's 1-0 win over Jaguares de Cordoba.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Did not dress in Wigan's 0-0 draw with Brentford. Came off the bench and played 16 minutes in Wigan's 0-0 draw with Millwall.
Herculez Gomez - Tigres - Mexico - Started and played 75 minutes in Tigres' 1-0 win over Cruz Azul.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Offseason.
Jeferson - América RN - Brazil - Started and played 45 minutes in America's 2-1 loss to Bragantino. Dressed but did not play in America's 2-0 win over Vasco da Gama.
Will John - Maghreb Fes - Morocco - Drew 1-1 with Chabab Rif Hoceima.
Igor Kostrov - Veris - Moldova - Lost 3-0 to Sheriff.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Did not dress in either of San Martin's games.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Dressed but did not play in Servette's 2-0 loss to Lugano.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Did not dress in Spartak's 2-0 loss to Ural.
Pablo Punyed - Stjarnan - Iceland - Offseason.
Oriol Rosell - Sporting Club de Portugal - Portugal - Came off the bench and played 6 minutes in Sporting's 3-1 win over Porto in the Cup. Dressed but did not play in Sporting's 4-3 Champions League loss to Schalke.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in either of Blackburn's games.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Started and played 74 minutes in Sarajevo's 1-1 draw with Zrinjski.
Matt Taylor - Saarbrücken - Germany - Started and played 77 minutes in Saarbrucken's 2-1 loss to Hessen Kassel.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 2-0 win over Deportivo Petare.
Active without a club or unknown
Vicente Arze
Federico Bessone
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Adnan Gabeljic
Mechack Jerome
Peterson Joseph
Neal Kitson
Michal Mravec
Nelson Pizarro
Akeem Priestly
Peter Schmetz
Scott Sealy
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 2-1 win over Chicago.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Did not dress in New England's 2-1 win over Houston.
Bobby Convey - New York - Did not dress in New York's 3-1 loss to Columbus.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 89 minutes in RSL's 0-0 draw with Portland.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 0-0 draw with RSL. Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 3-1 loss to Olimpia.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 0-0 draw with RSL. Did not dress in Portland's 3-1 loss to Olimpia.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Started and played 76 minutes recording a goal and an assist in DC's 2-1 win over Chicago.
Kei Kamara - Columbus - Not available until 2015 season.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Dessed but did not play in Toronto's 1-1 draw with Montreal.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 0-0 draw with RSL. Dressed but did not play in Portland's 3-1 loss to Olimpia.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Started and played 90 minutes in San Jose's 0-0 draw with Vancouver.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 3-1 win over New York.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 1-1 draw with Carolina.
USL
Brian Fekete - Pittsburgh - Offseason.
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Jonathan Leathers - Charlotte - Offseason.
Alex Martinez - Orange County - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason.
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Auerbach - Germany - Started and played 25 minutes in Auerbach's 2-0 loss to Germania Halberstadt.
Scott Angevine - Vasa - Finland - Did not play in Vasa's 3-0 loss to PS Kemi.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 90 minutes in Chivas' 2-1 loss to Leon. Did not dress in Chivas' 5-0 Copa Mexico loss to Santos.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - No game this week.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Offseason.
Eloy Colombano - AD Berazategui - Argentina - Lost 2-0 to Deportivo Riestra.
Daneil Cyrus - Ha Noi T&T (W Connection) - Vietnam (Trinidad) - Offseason.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not play in Cucuta's 0-0 draw wtih Expreso Rojo. Came off the bench and played 1 minute in Cucuta's 1-0 win over Jaguares de Cordoba.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Did not dress in Wigan's 0-0 draw with Brentford. Came off the bench and played 16 minutes in Wigan's 0-0 draw with Millwall.
Herculez Gomez - Tigres - Mexico - Started and played 75 minutes in Tigres' 1-0 win over Cruz Azul.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Offseason.
Jeferson - América RN - Brazil - Started and played 45 minutes in America's 2-1 loss to Bragantino. Dressed but did not play in America's 2-0 win over Vasco da Gama.
Will John - Maghreb Fes - Morocco - Drew 1-1 with Chabab Rif Hoceima.
Igor Kostrov - Veris - Moldova - Lost 3-0 to Sheriff.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Did not dress in either of San Martin's games.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Dressed but did not play in Servette's 2-0 loss to Lugano.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Did not dress in Spartak's 2-0 loss to Ural.
Pablo Punyed - Stjarnan - Iceland - Offseason.
Oriol Rosell - Sporting Club de Portugal - Portugal - Came off the bench and played 6 minutes in Sporting's 3-1 win over Porto in the Cup. Dressed but did not play in Sporting's 4-3 Champions League loss to Schalke.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - Did not dress in either of Blackburn's games.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Started and played 74 minutes in Sarajevo's 1-1 draw with Zrinjski.
Matt Taylor - Saarbrücken - Germany - Started and played 77 minutes in Saarbrucken's 2-1 loss to Hessen Kassel.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 2-0 win over Deportivo Petare.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Espinoza Talk Continues
The talk of Roger Espinoza returning to Kansas City continues to make the rounds. Today, the BBC got quotes from Espinoza's current coach at Wigan, Uwe Rosler.
According to Rosler, Espinoza has twice come to the German asking to leave the club, Rosler said that Espinoza told him he wanted to return to Kansas.
At the time, Rosler said that he couldn't let the Honduran go, because "at that point we didn't have any midfielders."
Since the start of the season though, Espinoza has seen little time for the Latics, appearing in just two league games and one League Cup game. The second league game, came today, when he was a substitute against Millwall. Before that he had been over two months since his last appearance for the club, also as a substitute on August 16th against Charlton. It was his first time being in the 18 since August 30th when he was an unused substitute against Birmingham City. In that time since, he'd been relegated all the way to Wigan's U21 team.
Still, Peter Vermes has already stated that the club is not going to pay a transfer fee to bring Espinoza back. As Vermes said when the rumor originally came out, it wouldn't make sense to a guy who wasn't playing for his club. Then there's also the fact that Espinoza should be out of contract come the summer, making him available on a free. So while Espinoza may want to leave, KC may want him, and Rosler may be willing to let him go now that they have midfield, Sporting likely won't be bringing him in for a fee. That likely means that either Wigan would need to either release him from his contract or Sporting would need to wait until the summer window to bring Espinoza back to KC.
According to Rosler, Espinoza has twice come to the German asking to leave the club, Rosler said that Espinoza told him he wanted to return to Kansas.
At the time, Rosler said that he couldn't let the Honduran go, because "at that point we didn't have any midfielders."
Since the start of the season though, Espinoza has seen little time for the Latics, appearing in just two league games and one League Cup game. The second league game, came today, when he was a substitute against Millwall. Before that he had been over two months since his last appearance for the club, also as a substitute on August 16th against Charlton. It was his first time being in the 18 since August 30th when he was an unused substitute against Birmingham City. In that time since, he'd been relegated all the way to Wigan's U21 team.
Still, Peter Vermes has already stated that the club is not going to pay a transfer fee to bring Espinoza back. As Vermes said when the rumor originally came out, it wouldn't make sense to a guy who wasn't playing for his club. Then there's also the fact that Espinoza should be out of contract come the summer, making him available on a free. So while Espinoza may want to leave, KC may want him, and Rosler may be willing to let him go now that they have midfield, Sporting likely won't be bringing him in for a fee. That likely means that either Wigan would need to either release him from his contract or Sporting would need to wait until the summer window to bring Espinoza back to KC.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Sporting KC College Academy Update
Commitments continue to come in for the class of 2015 and their college choices ahead of signing day next year. Two more players have committed, goalkeeper, Andrew Blalock to Drake and defender Jack Freeman to Ohio State.
Here's this week's update.
Class of 2010
Brandon Fricke (Butler University) - D - RSr - Started in Butler's 1-0 win over Marquette. Started in Butler's 0-0 draw with DePaul.
Class of 2011
Eric Hymer (Fort Hays State) - D - Sr - Started in Fort Hays' 5-0 win over Southwest Baptist. Started in Fort Hays 2-0 win over Harding.
Raymond Lee (Saint Louis University) - MF - Sr - Started in Saint Louis' 1-0 win over Duquesne. Started in Saint Louis' 5-0 win over Massachusetts.
Eric Moore (Rockhurst University) - D - Sr - Did not play in either of Rockhurst's games.
Michael Oakley (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - Sr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Started in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Paul Oliver (California Baptist) - D/MF - Sr - Started and scored a hattrick in Cal Baptist's 3-2 win over Academy of Art. Started in Cal Baptist's 4-0 win over Dominican.
Jordan Rideout (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Taylor Vinnage (Benedictine) - GK - Sr - Startd in Benedictine's 4-2 win over Avila. Started in Benedictine's 3-1 win over Central Methodist.
Class of 2012
Andrew Brown (Bradley University) - MF - Jr - Started in Bradley's 3-0 win over Eastern Illinois. Started in Bradley's 1-0 win over Central Arkansas.
Eric DeJulio (Creighton University) - D - Jr - Started in Creighton's 1-0 win over St. John's. Started in Creighton's 1-1 draw with Xavier.
Daniel Hare (Loyola University in Chicago) - D - Jr - Started in Loyola's 1-1 draw with Wisconsin. Started in Loyola's 0-0 draw with Missouri State.
Andrew Lightner (Dayton) - D - RSo - Started in Dayton's 4-1 win over Massachusetts. Started in Dayton's 1-0 OT loss to Rhode Island.
Andrew Miller (Baker University) - D - Jr - Did not play in either of Baker's games.
Nate Opperman (University of Evansville) - F - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Evansville's 5-1 loss to Kentucky.
Derek Schrick (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - Jr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Chris Tuso (Baker) - MF - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Baker's 1-1 draw with #2 MidAmerica Nazarene. Came on as a substitute in Baker's 2-1 loss to Graceland.
Shane Woods (Drury University) - F - Jr - Did not play in either of Drury's games.
Class of 2013
Joe Amico (Jacksonville) - D - So - Started in Jacksonville's 2-0 win over Northern Kentucky.
Chris Arce (Neosho CC) - MF - So - Started in Neosho's 3-0 win over Cloud County. Started in Neosho's 2-1 win over Dodge City. Started in Neosho's 1-0 win over Barton County.
Matt Bernard (Drake) - MF - RFr - Did not play in Drake's 4-0 loss to SIU Edwardsville.
Paul Dean (Rockhurst University) - D - So - Had a goal and an assist in Rockhurst's 2-0 win over McKendree. Started in Rockhurst's 0-0 draw with Bellarmine.
Seo-In Kim (Duke) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute in Duke's 2-1 OT loss to Davidson. Came on as a substitute and had an assist in Duke's 4-1 loss to #11 Notre Dame.
Adam Lightner (Northern Illinois University) - D - So - Did not play in Northern Illinois' 3-0 loss to Western Michigan.
Clay Stewart - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF/D - So - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Wes White (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - RFr - Started in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Started and had an assist in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Austin Wilcox (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Did not play in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Drew Wilson (Fort Hays State University) - D - So - Did not play in Fort Hays' 5-0 win over Southwest Baptist. Started in Fort Hays' 2-0 win over Harding.
Kyle Vassar - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - RFr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Class of 2014
Darby Cronin (University of Missouri Kansas City)- MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Did not play in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Andrew Dittemore (Missouri State) - GK - Fr - Did not play in Missouri State's 0-0 draw with Loyola.
Andy Ericks (Colorado School of Mines) - MF - Fr - Did not play in either of Colorado's games.
Heath Honold (Wake Forest) - F - Fr - Did not pay in Wake's 4-1 win over Boston College.
Mason Leonard (Drake) - D - Fr - Started in Drake's 4-0 loss to SIU Edwardsville.
Blake Levine (Baker) - F - Fr - Started in Baker's 1-1 draw with #2 MidAmerica Nazarene. Started in Baker's 2-1 loss to Graceland.
Matthew Lewis (Fordham) - D - Fr - Started in Fordham's 0-0 draw wtih VCU. Started in Fordham's 1-0 loss to George Mason.
Andy Lopez (North Carolina) - MF - Fr - Did not play in either of UNC's games.
Noah Mudd (Trevecca) - D - Fr - Started in Trevecca's 5-3 loss to Salem International. Started in Trevecca's 3-1 loss to Kentucky Wesleyan.
Joey Piatczyc (West Virginia) - MF - Fr - Started in West Virginia's 3-2 loss to Akron.
Cole Stevenson (Denver) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Denver's 3-0 loss to USF. Came on as a substitute in Denver's 2-0 win over IPFW.
Austin Williamson (Northeastern State University) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Northeastern's games.
Zach Wright (North Carolina) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute and recorded an assist in UNC's 4-0 win over Georgia State. Did not play in UNC's 1-0 win over NC State.
Here's this week's update.
Class of 2010
Brandon Fricke (Butler University) - D - RSr - Started in Butler's 1-0 win over Marquette. Started in Butler's 0-0 draw with DePaul.
Class of 2011
Eric Hymer (Fort Hays State) - D - Sr - Started in Fort Hays' 5-0 win over Southwest Baptist. Started in Fort Hays 2-0 win over Harding.
Raymond Lee (Saint Louis University) - MF - Sr - Started in Saint Louis' 1-0 win over Duquesne. Started in Saint Louis' 5-0 win over Massachusetts.
Eric Moore (Rockhurst University) - D - Sr - Did not play in either of Rockhurst's games.
Michael Oakley (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - Sr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Started in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Paul Oliver (California Baptist) - D/MF - Sr - Started and scored a hattrick in Cal Baptist's 3-2 win over Academy of Art. Started in Cal Baptist's 4-0 win over Dominican.
Jordan Rideout (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Taylor Vinnage (Benedictine) - GK - Sr - Startd in Benedictine's 4-2 win over Avila. Started in Benedictine's 3-1 win over Central Methodist.
Class of 2012
Andrew Brown (Bradley University) - MF - Jr - Started in Bradley's 3-0 win over Eastern Illinois. Started in Bradley's 1-0 win over Central Arkansas.
Eric DeJulio (Creighton University) - D - Jr - Started in Creighton's 1-0 win over St. John's. Started in Creighton's 1-1 draw with Xavier.
Daniel Hare (Loyola University in Chicago) - D - Jr - Started in Loyola's 1-1 draw with Wisconsin. Started in Loyola's 0-0 draw with Missouri State.
Andrew Lightner (Dayton) - D - RSo - Started in Dayton's 4-1 win over Massachusetts. Started in Dayton's 1-0 OT loss to Rhode Island.
Andrew Miller (Baker University) - D - Jr - Did not play in either of Baker's games.
Nate Opperman (University of Evansville) - F - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Evansville's 5-1 loss to Kentucky.
Derek Schrick (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - Jr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Chris Tuso (Baker) - MF - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Baker's 1-1 draw with #2 MidAmerica Nazarene. Came on as a substitute in Baker's 2-1 loss to Graceland.
Shane Woods (Drury University) - F - Jr - Did not play in either of Drury's games.
Class of 2013
Joe Amico (Jacksonville) - D - So - Started in Jacksonville's 2-0 win over Northern Kentucky.
Chris Arce (Neosho CC) - MF - So - Started in Neosho's 3-0 win over Cloud County. Started in Neosho's 2-1 win over Dodge City. Started in Neosho's 1-0 win over Barton County.
Matt Bernard (Drake) - MF - RFr - Did not play in Drake's 4-0 loss to SIU Edwardsville.
Paul Dean (Rockhurst University) - D - So - Had a goal and an assist in Rockhurst's 2-0 win over McKendree. Started in Rockhurst's 0-0 draw with Bellarmine.
Seo-In Kim (Duke) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute in Duke's 2-1 OT loss to Davidson. Came on as a substitute and had an assist in Duke's 4-1 loss to #11 Notre Dame.
Adam Lightner (Northern Illinois University) - D - So - Did not play in Northern Illinois' 3-0 loss to Western Michigan.
Clay Stewart - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF/D - So - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Wes White (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - RFr - Started in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Started and had an assist in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Austin Wilcox (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Did not play in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Drew Wilson (Fort Hays State University) - D - So - Did not play in Fort Hays' 5-0 win over Southwest Baptist. Started in Fort Hays' 2-0 win over Harding.
Kyle Vassar - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - RFr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Class of 2014
Darby Cronin (University of Missouri Kansas City)- MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 3-2 loss to Grand Canyon. Did not play in UMKC's 2-1 win over UNLV.
Andrew Dittemore (Missouri State) - GK - Fr - Did not play in Missouri State's 0-0 draw with Loyola.
Andy Ericks (Colorado School of Mines) - MF - Fr - Did not play in either of Colorado's games.
Heath Honold (Wake Forest) - F - Fr - Did not pay in Wake's 4-1 win over Boston College.
Mason Leonard (Drake) - D - Fr - Started in Drake's 4-0 loss to SIU Edwardsville.
Blake Levine (Baker) - F - Fr - Started in Baker's 1-1 draw with #2 MidAmerica Nazarene. Started in Baker's 2-1 loss to Graceland.
Matthew Lewis (Fordham) - D - Fr - Started in Fordham's 0-0 draw wtih VCU. Started in Fordham's 1-0 loss to George Mason.
Andy Lopez (North Carolina) - MF - Fr - Did not play in either of UNC's games.
Noah Mudd (Trevecca) - D - Fr - Started in Trevecca's 5-3 loss to Salem International. Started in Trevecca's 3-1 loss to Kentucky Wesleyan.
Joey Piatczyc (West Virginia) - MF - Fr - Started in West Virginia's 3-2 loss to Akron.
Cole Stevenson (Denver) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Denver's 3-0 loss to USF. Came on as a substitute in Denver's 2-0 win over IPFW.
Austin Williamson (Northeastern State University) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Northeastern's games.
Zach Wright (North Carolina) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute and recorded an assist in UNC's 4-0 win over Georgia State. Did not play in UNC's 1-0 win over NC State.
Sunday, October 19, 2014
Sunday After Stats
Dom Dwyer's goal was his 23rd in all competitions this year for KC, breaking Preki's record of 22 set in 1996.
Dwyer's goal was Kansas City's 400th in all competitions away from home.
Dwyer's goal was his 27th in all competitions for his KC career, tying him with CJ Sapong for the active leader on that list.
Dwyer's goal ties him with Sapong for 9th place in all competitions for goals scored with 27.
Dwyer's goal was his 10th away from home this season, he's the first player in KC history to hit double digit goals on the road.
Dwyer's goal was his 10th away goal in league play of his career for KC, tying him with Scott Sealy and Mo Johnston for 8th on that list.
The goal was Dwyer's 11th in all competitions away from home in his career with KC, tying him with Kei Kamara for 7th all time on that list.
Paulo Nagamura started his 200th game of his MLS career.
In the 46th minute, Seth Sinovic moved past Diego Gutierrez and into 16th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 12,291 minutes played.
In the 58th minute, Sinovic passed Gutierrez and moved into 16th place for minutes played in league play. He finished the game with 9,796 minutes played.
Sinovic started his 11th game for KC, breaking his tie with Jose Burciaga for 16th on that list.
Aurelien Collin picked up his 31st yellow card in league play for KC, that gives him sole possession of 4th place on that list.
Dwyer's goal was Kansas City's 400th in all competitions away from home.
Dwyer's goal was his 27th in all competitions for his KC career, tying him with CJ Sapong for the active leader on that list.
Dwyer's goal ties him with Sapong for 9th place in all competitions for goals scored with 27.
Dwyer's goal was his 10th away from home this season, he's the first player in KC history to hit double digit goals on the road.
Dwyer's goal was his 10th away goal in league play of his career for KC, tying him with Scott Sealy and Mo Johnston for 8th on that list.
The goal was Dwyer's 11th in all competitions away from home in his career with KC, tying him with Kei Kamara for 7th all time on that list.
Paulo Nagamura started his 200th game of his MLS career.
In the 46th minute, Seth Sinovic moved past Diego Gutierrez and into 16th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 12,291 minutes played.
In the 58th minute, Sinovic passed Gutierrez and moved into 16th place for minutes played in league play. He finished the game with 9,796 minutes played.
Sinovic started his 11th game for KC, breaking his tie with Jose Burciaga for 16th on that list.
Aurelien Collin picked up his 31st yellow card in league play for KC, that gives him sole possession of 4th place on that list.
Where KC Stands With One Game Left
There's just one week left in the season for the Eastern Conference and there's still quite a bit to play for in the East. While DC United has wrapped up the top seed and New England has wrapped up the second seed, the other three playoff teams can still finish anywhere between third and fifth depending on the final results.
Here's how the third through fifth spots in the East currently stand after Columbus defeated New York 3-1 today in New York.
Kansas City is ahead of Columbus because of the first tie breaker, wins.
Next week, Kansas City hosts New York at Sporting Park while Columbus hosts Philadelphia. Both games take place on Sunday, but the Crew kick off at 3pm Central time while Sporting and New York kick off at 7:30pm. So both KC and New York will know the result that they need before they kick off.
First things first, the simplest thing for Kansas City to do is to just win. A win and the result between Columbus and Philadelphia doesn't matter. Since KC owns the tiebreaker with Columbus at this point a win guarantees Kansas City a date with New England.
A draw or a loss for Kansas City and KC becomes reliant on the result in Columbus. If Kansas City draws with New York, KC would be guaranteed third or fourth as they would finish ahead of New York. A Columbus loss or draw against Philadelphia and KC would be third, a Crew win and KC would finish fourth.
A loss to New York next week, and the play in game is a guarantee for Kansas City. The Red Bulls would leap frog Kansas City with a win. A Columbus win or draw combined with that and KC would fall all the way to the fifth spot in the East, and would head out on the road for the wild card game. If New York wins and Columbus loses, KC would finish in fourth and host the Crew.
If KC falls into the wild card game, Sporting would play four games in 12 days, with the trip to Costa Rica this week in the Champions League. Then if KC gets through the wild card game, KC could end up playing five games in 15-16 days, certainly not an ideal situation for a team that is already suffering through a number of injuries and some fatigue.
Taking a page from on of the members of the Crew's Massive Report, here's a table with all the potential results.
Here's how the third through fifth spots in the East currently stand after Columbus defeated New York 3-1 today in New York.
| Points | Wins | ||
| 3 | Sporting | 49 | 14 |
| 4 | Columbus | 49 | 13 |
| 5 | New York | 47 | 12 |
Kansas City is ahead of Columbus because of the first tie breaker, wins.
Next week, Kansas City hosts New York at Sporting Park while Columbus hosts Philadelphia. Both games take place on Sunday, but the Crew kick off at 3pm Central time while Sporting and New York kick off at 7:30pm. So both KC and New York will know the result that they need before they kick off.
First things first, the simplest thing for Kansas City to do is to just win. A win and the result between Columbus and Philadelphia doesn't matter. Since KC owns the tiebreaker with Columbus at this point a win guarantees Kansas City a date with New England.
A draw or a loss for Kansas City and KC becomes reliant on the result in Columbus. If Kansas City draws with New York, KC would be guaranteed third or fourth as they would finish ahead of New York. A Columbus loss or draw against Philadelphia and KC would be third, a Crew win and KC would finish fourth.
A loss to New York next week, and the play in game is a guarantee for Kansas City. The Red Bulls would leap frog Kansas City with a win. A Columbus win or draw combined with that and KC would fall all the way to the fifth spot in the East, and would head out on the road for the wild card game. If New York wins and Columbus loses, KC would finish in fourth and host the Crew.
If KC falls into the wild card game, Sporting would play four games in 12 days, with the trip to Costa Rica this week in the Champions League. Then if KC gets through the wild card game, KC could end up playing five games in 15-16 days, certainly not an ideal situation for a team that is already suffering through a number of injuries and some fatigue.
Taking a page from on of the members of the Crew's Massive Report, here's a table with all the potential results.
What We Want to Happen 10/19
Sporting KC didn't help themselves out at all yesterday with the loss to Philadelphia. The result means that KC can only finish third through fifth in the Eastern Conference. It also means that KC's chances of hosting MLS Cup are incredibly slim. Kansas City can only finish ahead of one of the West's playoff teams, the fifth seed currently held by Vancouver. The Whitecaps are two points behind Kansas City in the single table. So with that in mind, here's a look at what we want to happen today.
Columbus at New York
What we want to happen - draw
Normally I'm not a fan of giving teams trailing KC both points, but in this situation it's probably for the best. A win by New York moves them ahead of Kansas City and into third in the East. A Columbus win puts them level on points with KC heading into the final game. A draw here would keep both teams behind Kansas City and still leave some outs for Kansas City to finish in third should KC draw with New York instead of win next Sunday.
Seattle at Los Angeles
What we want to happen - Doesn't matter
Really this game has no effect on KC at all, these two teams are battling for the Supporters' Shield, ending the season with a home and home against each other. The result means little to Kansas City.
Columbus at New York
What we want to happen - draw
Normally I'm not a fan of giving teams trailing KC both points, but in this situation it's probably for the best. A win by New York moves them ahead of Kansas City and into third in the East. A Columbus win puts them level on points with KC heading into the final game. A draw here would keep both teams behind Kansas City and still leave some outs for Kansas City to finish in third should KC draw with New York instead of win next Sunday.
Seattle at Los Angeles
What we want to happen - Doesn't matter
Really this game has no effect on KC at all, these two teams are battling for the Supporters' Shield, ending the season with a home and home against each other. The result means little to Kansas City.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Sporting's Playoff Possibilities Slimmed
The post season possibilities just got smaller for Sporting Kansas City after tonight's game against the Philadelphia Union. With the 2-1 loss by Kansas City, KC can no longer finish in first or second in the East. The best that Kansas City can do now is to finish in third place. Depending on results tomorrow and next week, KC could still finish as low as fifth place.
The first half of the game, for the most part lacked in the way of serious chances for either side. But both sides had some half chances. In the 16th minute, KC had a good opportunity as Dom Dwyer got played in wide behind Philadelphia's defense. Dwyer beat Zac MacMath to the ball and crossed a ball into the middle, but there was no Kansas City player in the middle of the box to turn the cross home. The Union on the other hand, found their best opportunities on the counter, attacking KC's back line with pace. In the 29th minute they almost took advantage. Andrew Wenger beat Igor Juliao to a loose ball and raced into the KC half of the field. Wenger got defenders to commit before squaring the ball into the middle for Cristian Maidana who had Eric Kronberg 1v1. Maidana fired the ball right at Kronberg though who covered the ball and kept it scoreless. Just before half time another counter by the Union led to the games first goal. Lawrence Olum was caught in possession on a KC attack and the Union countered the other way. The ball got played wide for Vincent Nogueira who dribbled into the middle before laying the ball off to Brian Brown. Brown played the ball wide for Maidana. Maidana played the ball back into the midle where Brown had lost his mark and easily put the ball into the back of the net giving the Union the lead as the teams headed into half time.
The second half saw the Union start out looking for a second, but unable to convert as Noguiera curled a shot just wide of Kronberg's far post. The early miss proved costly for Philadelphia as shortly after, Soony Saad received a ball neither the top of the box with space. Saad dribbled into the box and tried to round MacMath but was brought down in the box. Jair Marrufo pointed to the spot immediately, giving KC a penalty kick. Dwyer stepped up and sent MacMath the wrong way for his 22nd of the season and 23rd in all competitions as KC was level. With the game level though KC couldn't really take advantage, really failing to create much in the way of chances against the Philadelphia back line. And in the 71st minute, KC paid for the lack of chances and Sheanon Williams picked out Maidana with a nice diagonal ball into the box. As Aurelien Collin went to pressure Maidana slide the ball into the middle for substitute Pedro Ribeiro who was completely unmarked. The forward had he time to take a touch before pushing his shot past Kronberg and into the net to make it 2-1 Union. KC again went searching for an equalizer but the chances weren't materializing. In the 88th KC had their best chance to find another equalizer as Jacob Peterson who was playing center forward was played into the box behind the Union defense. Peterson got some space and squared the ball back to the top of the six for Paulo Nagamura who had made a run into the box. Nagamura though put his effort from six yards out over the bar. KC couldn't create anything in the way of chances the rest of the way as Sporting suffered a big defeat this late in the season, their second of the year against the Union as KC ended with just one point out of a possible nine this year against Philadelphia.
Wizards Man of the Match - Eric Kronberg - Recorded four saves for Sporting KC in his return to the starting 11 with the injury to Andy Gruenebaum. Not much that Kronberg could have done with either of the goals as he was hung out to dry by his defense.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Juliao 4, Collin 3, Ellis 4, Sinovic 4, Olum 3, Nagamura 5, Feilhaber 4, Zizzo 3, Dwyer 5, Saad 4. Subs Peterson 4, Medranda 4, Dovale NR.
The first half of the game, for the most part lacked in the way of serious chances for either side. But both sides had some half chances. In the 16th minute, KC had a good opportunity as Dom Dwyer got played in wide behind Philadelphia's defense. Dwyer beat Zac MacMath to the ball and crossed a ball into the middle, but there was no Kansas City player in the middle of the box to turn the cross home. The Union on the other hand, found their best opportunities on the counter, attacking KC's back line with pace. In the 29th minute they almost took advantage. Andrew Wenger beat Igor Juliao to a loose ball and raced into the KC half of the field. Wenger got defenders to commit before squaring the ball into the middle for Cristian Maidana who had Eric Kronberg 1v1. Maidana fired the ball right at Kronberg though who covered the ball and kept it scoreless. Just before half time another counter by the Union led to the games first goal. Lawrence Olum was caught in possession on a KC attack and the Union countered the other way. The ball got played wide for Vincent Nogueira who dribbled into the middle before laying the ball off to Brian Brown. Brown played the ball wide for Maidana. Maidana played the ball back into the midle where Brown had lost his mark and easily put the ball into the back of the net giving the Union the lead as the teams headed into half time.
The second half saw the Union start out looking for a second, but unable to convert as Noguiera curled a shot just wide of Kronberg's far post. The early miss proved costly for Philadelphia as shortly after, Soony Saad received a ball neither the top of the box with space. Saad dribbled into the box and tried to round MacMath but was brought down in the box. Jair Marrufo pointed to the spot immediately, giving KC a penalty kick. Dwyer stepped up and sent MacMath the wrong way for his 22nd of the season and 23rd in all competitions as KC was level. With the game level though KC couldn't really take advantage, really failing to create much in the way of chances against the Philadelphia back line. And in the 71st minute, KC paid for the lack of chances and Sheanon Williams picked out Maidana with a nice diagonal ball into the box. As Aurelien Collin went to pressure Maidana slide the ball into the middle for substitute Pedro Ribeiro who was completely unmarked. The forward had he time to take a touch before pushing his shot past Kronberg and into the net to make it 2-1 Union. KC again went searching for an equalizer but the chances weren't materializing. In the 88th KC had their best chance to find another equalizer as Jacob Peterson who was playing center forward was played into the box behind the Union defense. Peterson got some space and squared the ball back to the top of the six for Paulo Nagamura who had made a run into the box. Nagamura though put his effort from six yards out over the bar. KC couldn't create anything in the way of chances the rest of the way as Sporting suffered a big defeat this late in the season, their second of the year against the Union as KC ended with just one point out of a possible nine this year against Philadelphia.
Wizards Man of the Match - Eric Kronberg - Recorded four saves for Sporting KC in his return to the starting 11 with the injury to Andy Gruenebaum. Not much that Kronberg could have done with either of the goals as he was hung out to dry by his defense.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Juliao 4, Collin 3, Ellis 4, Sinovic 4, Olum 3, Nagamura 5, Feilhaber 4, Zizzo 3, Dwyer 5, Saad 4. Subs Peterson 4, Medranda 4, Dovale NR.
What We Want to Happen 10/18
Along with Sporting KC playing today, there are four other MLS games. Most will have pretty much no effect on KC, but here's a look at what we want to happen today.
Montreal at Toronto
What we want to happen - Doesn't matter
Montreal is eliminated from the playoffs, and Toronto needs 4 results to go their way for them to even make the playoffs this year.
Dallas at Colorado
What we want to happen - Colorado win
Back to the whole MLS Cup host potential for KC, keep Dallas close to KC to allow KC the ability to finish ahead of them in the single table.
Chicago at DC
What we want to happen - Chicago win
Not that I have high hopes for this, but a Chicago win would keep DC within touching distance of KC, if DC picks up even a point, KC cannot finish first in the East.
Vancouver at San Jose
What we want to happen - San Jose
Really not much in this for KC as I don't expect Vancouver to make MLS Cup, but a San Jose win means Vancouver can not finish ahead of KC in the single table, and if both were to make MLS Cup, Sporting would host.
Montreal at Toronto
What we want to happen - Doesn't matter
Montreal is eliminated from the playoffs, and Toronto needs 4 results to go their way for them to even make the playoffs this year.
Dallas at Colorado
What we want to happen - Colorado win
Back to the whole MLS Cup host potential for KC, keep Dallas close to KC to allow KC the ability to finish ahead of them in the single table.
Chicago at DC
What we want to happen - Chicago win
Not that I have high hopes for this, but a Chicago win would keep DC within touching distance of KC, if DC picks up even a point, KC cannot finish first in the East.
Vancouver at San Jose
What we want to happen - San Jose
Really not much in this for KC as I don't expect Vancouver to make MLS Cup, but a San Jose win means Vancouver can not finish ahead of KC in the single table, and if both were to make MLS Cup, Sporting would host.
Friday, October 17, 2014
Match Day 33 - Final Road Trip
KC is heading down the final stretch of the season and head into their final road game of the season a little short. The team is short on players as the injury bug has hit again. They travel to Philadelphia for the final road trip of the regular season looking to improve their chances of avoiding the wild card game.
Sporting will play a Philadelphia team that has been eliminated from the playoff race. The Union fell out of competition after allowing three goals in a five minute period against the Columbus Crew to go from a 2-0 lead to a 3-2 deficit. After a crushing defeat it could be hard for the Union to pick themselves back up, it wouldn't be the first time a game like that has seen a team collapse. A question could be asked of the Union of whether they'll give some of the team's younger players a chance to get game time tomorrow. Coach Jim Curtin has said he'd put his best team on the field though, but we'll see if that see's some of the younger talent or not with Curtin apparently still trying to get the permanent head coaching position.
With only two more games left in the Sporting KC season, the injury bug has returned to Kansas City with a vengence. Matt Besler returned from national team duty with a thigh contusion and didn't even travel to Philadelphia, Andy Gruenebaum picked up an injury in practice and he's now questionable for the game. Then there's Claudio Bieler and CJ Sapong who are both questionable as well with injuries. The team is running out of bodies to even use in practice at this point. Aurelien Collin may finally return from his ankle injury which would be a boost for KC. All the injuries will play a role, along with a busy final week of the regular season, which will see KC travel to Costa Rica for a game on Thursday in the CONCACAF Champions League before heading home the season finale against New York.
Number to Remember - 2 - The number of games left for Sporting this season. It's also the number of points that separate Sporting from fourth place New York. With Sporting playing the Red Bulls the final week of the season KC needs a win and dropped points on New York and Columbus' side to lock up a top three finish.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin vs Conor Casey - This is one of those matches that is just fun to watch. Two physical players facing off against each other. It's not Collin vs Steven Lenhart level, but it'll be a physical one.
PREDICTION - This is a real hard one to predict. Kansas City's injury issues combined with the Union's playoff elimination leave a lot of questions regarding both teams' lineups. A win would be huge for Kansas City, a much needed result that would secure at least fourth place and go a long way towards clinching a top three spot. The Union though have seemed to have had Kansas City's number this year, picking up a win and a draw on the road against KC. While KC was successful on the road last year in Philadelphia, I'm not sure KC gets a win this time.
SKC - 1 (Dwyer)
PHI - 1 (Le Toux)
Sporting will play a Philadelphia team that has been eliminated from the playoff race. The Union fell out of competition after allowing three goals in a five minute period against the Columbus Crew to go from a 2-0 lead to a 3-2 deficit. After a crushing defeat it could be hard for the Union to pick themselves back up, it wouldn't be the first time a game like that has seen a team collapse. A question could be asked of the Union of whether they'll give some of the team's younger players a chance to get game time tomorrow. Coach Jim Curtin has said he'd put his best team on the field though, but we'll see if that see's some of the younger talent or not with Curtin apparently still trying to get the permanent head coaching position.
With only two more games left in the Sporting KC season, the injury bug has returned to Kansas City with a vengence. Matt Besler returned from national team duty with a thigh contusion and didn't even travel to Philadelphia, Andy Gruenebaum picked up an injury in practice and he's now questionable for the game. Then there's Claudio Bieler and CJ Sapong who are both questionable as well with injuries. The team is running out of bodies to even use in practice at this point. Aurelien Collin may finally return from his ankle injury which would be a boost for KC. All the injuries will play a role, along with a busy final week of the regular season, which will see KC travel to Costa Rica for a game on Thursday in the CONCACAF Champions League before heading home the season finale against New York.
Kronberg
Juliao - Collin - Ellis - Sinovic
Olum - Nagamura
Feilhaber
Zusi - Dwyer - Dovale
Number to Remember - 2 - The number of games left for Sporting this season. It's also the number of points that separate Sporting from fourth place New York. With Sporting playing the Red Bulls the final week of the season KC needs a win and dropped points on New York and Columbus' side to lock up a top three finish.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin vs Conor Casey - This is one of those matches that is just fun to watch. Two physical players facing off against each other. It's not Collin vs Steven Lenhart level, but it'll be a physical one.
PREDICTION - This is a real hard one to predict. Kansas City's injury issues combined with the Union's playoff elimination leave a lot of questions regarding both teams' lineups. A win would be huge for Kansas City, a much needed result that would secure at least fourth place and go a long way towards clinching a top three spot. The Union though have seemed to have had Kansas City's number this year, picking up a win and a draw on the road against KC. While KC was successful on the road last year in Philadelphia, I'm not sure KC gets a win this time.
SKC - 1 (Dwyer)
PHI - 1 (Le Toux)
What We Want to Happen 10/17
Not been a good year for KC getting results in these games this year. There's another game tonight that has some effect on KC.
Salt Lake at Portland
What we want to happen - Portland win
This is simply to keep RSL from getting too far ahead of KC in regards to potential MLS Cup hosting. Not much else to it.
Salt Lake at Portland
What we want to happen - Portland win
This is simply to keep RSL from getting too far ahead of KC in regards to potential MLS Cup hosting. Not much else to it.
Thursday, October 16, 2014
What We Want to Happen 10/16
MLS action returns tonight with a prime time game on ESPN 2. It's one that can have a big effect on Kansas City.
New England at Houston
What we want to happen - Houston win
What we want to happen - Houston win
Kansas City is tied with New England on points for 2nd in the East, but are third because the Revolution have more wins. Houston is eliminated from the playoffs so the chance for Kansas City is there to move into second if the Revolution lose and Sporting KC can get a win this weekend. A win here for the Revolution almost puts second place out of KC's reach, it'd require KC winning out and New England losing in the final week of the season. So I know if feels wrong, but root for the Dynamo.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Punyed Makes International Debut - Former SKC Wizards Update
Most former KC players did not have a game this past week as most teams were on break while international games were played. One former KC player though made his first appearances for his national team. Pablo Punyed had a successful season in Iceland, winning a league title with Stjarnanand advancing to play Inter Milan in Europa League qualifying and has now added his first international caps for El Salvador. Punyed appeared in both of El Salvador's friendlies. He started their 3-0 loss to Colombia and their 5-1 loss to Ecuador.
Here is the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Vicente Arze
Federico Bessone
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Adnan Gabeljic
Mechack Jerome
Peterson Joseph
Neal Kitson
Michal Mravec
Nelson Pizarro
Akeem Priestly
Peter Schmetz
Scott Sealy
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 3-1 win over Houston.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Started and played 61 minutes in New England's 2-2 draw with Montreal.
Bobby Convey - New York - Did not dress in New York's 3-1 win over Toronto.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Dressed but did not play in the USA's 1-1 draw with Ecuador. Came off the bench and played 13 minutes in RSL's 2-0 win over San Jose.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 3-0 win over San Jose.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Came off the bench and played 11 minutes in Portland's 3-0 win over San Jose.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Came off the bench and played 60 minutes, scoring a goal in DC's 3-1 win over Houston.
Kei Kamara - Columbus - Not available until 2015 season.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Houston. Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 3-1 loss to New York.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 3-0 win over San Jose.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Came off the bench and played 22 minutes in San Jose's 3-0 loss to Portland. Started and played 90 minutes in San Jose's 2-0 loss to RSL.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 3-2 win over Philadelphia.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 3-2 win over Tampa Bay. Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 2-2 draw with Atlanta.
USL
Brian Fekete - Pittsburgh - Offseason.
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Jonathan Leathers - Charlotte - Offseason.
Alex Martinez - Orange County - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason.
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Auerbach - Germany - No game this week.
Scott Angevine - Vasa - Finland - Did not dress in Vasa's 1-0 loss to PS Kemi.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - No game this week.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Defeated Orizaba 1-0.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Offseason.
Eloy Colombano - AD Berazategui - Argentina - Lost 2-0 to Talleres Remedios.
Daneil Cyrus - Ha Noi T&T (W Connection) - Vietnam (Trinidad) - Offseason.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not dress in Cucuta's 0-0 draw with Atletico Bucaramanga.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - No game this week.
Herculez Gomez - Tigres - Mexico - No game this week.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Offseason.
Jeferson - América RN - Brazil - Started and played 61 minutes in America's 2-2 draw with Sampaio Correa.
Will John - Maghreb Fes - Morocco - No game this week.
Igor Kostrov - Veris - Moldova - No game this week.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - No game this week.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game this week.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game this week.
Pablo Punyed - Stjarnan - Iceland - Started and played 90 minutes in El Salvador's 3-0 loss to Colombia. Stared and played 81 minutes in El Salvador's 5-1 loss to Ecuador.
Oriol Rosell - Sporting Club de Portugal - Portugal - No game this week.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - No game this week.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - No game this week.
Matt Taylor - Saarbrücken - Germany - Started and played 90 minutes in Saarbrucken's 1-1 draw with Kickers Offenbach.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - No game this week.
Here is the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Vicente Arze
Federico Bessone
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Adnan Gabeljic
Mechack Jerome
Peterson Joseph
Neal Kitson
Michal Mravec
Nelson Pizarro
Akeem Priestly
Peter Schmetz
Scott Sealy
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 3-1 win over Houston.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Started and played 61 minutes in New England's 2-2 draw with Montreal.
Bobby Convey - New York - Did not dress in New York's 3-1 win over Toronto.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Dressed but did not play in the USA's 1-1 draw with Ecuador. Came off the bench and played 13 minutes in RSL's 2-0 win over San Jose.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 3-0 win over San Jose.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Came off the bench and played 11 minutes in Portland's 3-0 win over San Jose.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Came off the bench and played 60 minutes, scoring a goal in DC's 3-1 win over Houston.
Kei Kamara - Columbus - Not available until 2015 season.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 1-0 loss to Houston. Dressed but did not play in Toronto's 3-1 loss to New York.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 3-0 win over San Jose.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Came off the bench and played 22 minutes in San Jose's 3-0 loss to Portland. Started and played 90 minutes in San Jose's 2-0 loss to RSL.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Started and played 90 minutes in Columbus' 3-2 win over Philadelphia.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 3-2 win over Tampa Bay. Started and played 90 minutes in Fort Lauderdale's 2-2 draw with Atlanta.
USL
Brian Fekete - Pittsburgh - Offseason.
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Jonathan Leathers - Charlotte - Offseason.
Alex Martinez - Orange County - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
Indoor
Jamar Beasley - St. Louis - Offseason.
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Offseason.
Paul Wright - San Diego - Offseason.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Auerbach - Germany - No game this week.
Scott Angevine - Vasa - Finland - Did not dress in Vasa's 1-0 loss to PS Kemi.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - No game this week.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Defeated Orizaba 1-0.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Offseason.
Eloy Colombano - AD Berazategui - Argentina - Lost 2-0 to Talleres Remedios.
Daneil Cyrus - Ha Noi T&T (W Connection) - Vietnam (Trinidad) - Offseason.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not dress in Cucuta's 0-0 draw with Atletico Bucaramanga.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - No game this week.
Herculez Gomez - Tigres - Mexico - No game this week.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Offseason.
Jeferson - América RN - Brazil - Started and played 61 minutes in America's 2-2 draw with Sampaio Correa.
Will John - Maghreb Fes - Morocco - No game this week.
Igor Kostrov - Veris - Moldova - No game this week.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - No game this week.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - No game this week.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - No game this week.
Pablo Punyed - Stjarnan - Iceland - Started and played 90 minutes in El Salvador's 3-0 loss to Colombia. Stared and played 81 minutes in El Salvador's 5-1 loss to Ecuador.
Oriol Rosell - Sporting Club de Portugal - Portugal - No game this week.
Yann Songo'o - Blackburn - England - No game this week.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - No game this week.
Matt Taylor - Saarbrücken - Germany - Started and played 90 minutes in Saarbrucken's 1-1 draw with Kickers Offenbach.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - No game this week.
Monday, October 13, 2014
SKC Academy Players in College Update
Here's this week's update for Sporting KC academy products playing in the collegiate ranks. First this week, current academy product, Nic Jaimes, who won the club's Bob Gansler Award, given to the top academy player, has committed his college future too. Jaimes, who represented the US with the futsal team on a trip to Argentina has committed to play college soccer at West Point.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Class of 2010
Brandon Fricke (Butler University) - D - RSr - Started in Butler's 2-1 loss to Creighton.
Class of 2011
Eric Hymer (Fort Hays State) - D - Sr - Started in Fort Hays' 3-2 win over Upper Iowa. Started in Fort Hays' 8-3 win over Southern Nazarene.
Raymond Lee (Saint Louis University) - MF - Sr - Started in Saint Louis' 0-0 draw with Davidson. Started in Saint Louis' 3-2 loss to George Mason.
Eric Moore (Rockhurst University) - D - Sr - Came on as a substitute in Rockhurst's 2-1 loss to Illinois-Springfield. Came on as a substitute in Rockhurst's 1-1 draw with Southern Indiana.
Michael Oakley (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Paul Oliver (California Baptist) - D/MF - Sr - Started in Cal Baptist's 2-1 loss to BYU-Hawaii. Started in Cal Baptist's 3-0 los to Hawaii-Hilo. Started in Cal Baptist's 2-1 loss to Hawaii Pacific.
Jordan Rideout (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - Sr - Started in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State Bakersfield. Started in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Taylor Vinnage (Benedictine) - GK - Sr - Started in Benedictine's 4-1 loss to Missouri Valley.
Class of 2012
Andrew Brown (Bradley University) - MF - Jr - Started and had an assist in Bradley's 2-1 win over Denver. Started in Bradly's 2-1 loss to Evansville.
Eric DeJulio (Creighton University) - D - Jr - Started in #9 Creighton's 1-0 win over Drake. Started in Creighton's 2-1 win over Butler.
Daniel Hare (Loyola University in Chicago) - D - Jr - Started in Loyola's 2-1 OT loss to Drake.
Andrew Lightner (Dayton) - D - RSo - Started in Dayton's 1-1 draw with George Mason.
Andrew Miller (Baker University) - D - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Baker's 3-1 loss to Oklahoma Wesleyan. Did not play in Baker's 2-0 win over Culver-Stockton.
Nate Opperman (University of Evansville) - F - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Evansville's 2-1 win over Bradley.
Derek Schrick (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - Jr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Chris Tuso (Baker) - MF - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Baker's 3-1 loss to Oklahoma Wesleyan. Came on as a substitute in Baker's 2-0 win over Culver-Stockton.
Shane Woods (Drury University) - F - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Drury's 2-1 win over Bellarmine. Came on as a substitute and had an assist in Drury's 2-0 win over McKendree.
Class of 2013
Joe Amico (Jacksonville) - D - So - Started in Jacksonville's 2-1 loss to Appalachian State.
Chris Arce (Neosho CC) - MF - So - No game this week.
Matt Bernard (Drake) - MF - RFr - Did not play in Drake's 1-0 loss to Creighton. Came on as a substitute in Drake's 2-1 OT win over Loyola.
Paul Dean (Rockhurst University) - D - So - Started in Rockhurst's 2-1 loss to Illinois-Springfield. Started and had an assist in Rockhurst's 1-1 draw wtih Southern Indiana.
Seo-In Kim (Duke) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute in Duke's 1-0 loss to #14 Virginia.
Adam Lightner (Northern Illinois University) - D - So - Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 2-0 loss to Northwestern. Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 1-1 draw with West Virginia.
Clay Stewart - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF/D - So - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Wes White (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - RFr - Started in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State Bakersfield. Started in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Austin Wilcox (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - So - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Drew Wilson (Fort Hays State University) - D - So - Started and had a goal in Fort Hays' 3-2 win over Upper Iowa. Started in Fort Hays' 8-3 win over Southern Nazarene.
Kyle Vassar - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - RFr - Did not play in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State Bakersfield. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Class of 2014
Darby Cronin (University of Missouri Kansas City)- MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State BAkersfield. Started and had an assist in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Andrew Dittemore (Missouri State) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Missouri State's games.
Andy Ericks (Colorado School of Mines) - MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Colorado's 3-1 win over Adams State. Did not play in Colorado's 1-0 win over Fort Lewis.
Heath Honold (Wake Forest) - F - Fr - Did not play in either of Wake's games.
Mason Leonard (Drake) - D - Fr - Started in Drake's 1-0 loss to Creighton. Started in Drake's 2-1 OT win over Loyola.
Blake Levine (Baker) - F - Fr - Started and had a goal in Baker's 3-1 loss to Oklahoma Wesleyan. Started in Baker's 2-0 win over Culver-Stockton.
Matthew Lewis (Fordham) - D - Fr - Started in Fordham's 3-1 win over La Salle. Started in Fordham's 2-0 win over Saint Joseph's.
Andy Lopez (North Carolina) - MF - Fr - Did not play in either of North Carolina's games.
Noah Mudd (Trevecca) - D - Fr - Started in Trevecca's 2-0 win over Ohio Valley.
Joey Piatczyc (West Virginia) - MF - Fr - Started in West Virginia's 1-1 draw wtih Northern Illinois.
Cole Stevenson (Denver) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Denver's 2-1 loss to Bradley. Came on as a substitute in Denver's 1-0 win over UIC.
Austin Williamson (Northeastern State University) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Northeastern's games.
Zach Wright (North Carolina) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in North Carolina's 3-0 win over Campbell. Came on as a substitute in North Carolina's 5-0 win over Virginia Tech.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Class of 2010
Brandon Fricke (Butler University) - D - RSr - Started in Butler's 2-1 loss to Creighton.
Class of 2011
Eric Hymer (Fort Hays State) - D - Sr - Started in Fort Hays' 3-2 win over Upper Iowa. Started in Fort Hays' 8-3 win over Southern Nazarene.
Raymond Lee (Saint Louis University) - MF - Sr - Started in Saint Louis' 0-0 draw with Davidson. Started in Saint Louis' 3-2 loss to George Mason.
Eric Moore (Rockhurst University) - D - Sr - Came on as a substitute in Rockhurst's 2-1 loss to Illinois-Springfield. Came on as a substitute in Rockhurst's 1-1 draw with Southern Indiana.
Michael Oakley (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - Sr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Paul Oliver (California Baptist) - D/MF - Sr - Started in Cal Baptist's 2-1 loss to BYU-Hawaii. Started in Cal Baptist's 3-0 los to Hawaii-Hilo. Started in Cal Baptist's 2-1 loss to Hawaii Pacific.
Jordan Rideout (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - Sr - Started in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State Bakersfield. Started in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Taylor Vinnage (Benedictine) - GK - Sr - Started in Benedictine's 4-1 loss to Missouri Valley.
Class of 2012
Andrew Brown (Bradley University) - MF - Jr - Started and had an assist in Bradley's 2-1 win over Denver. Started in Bradly's 2-1 loss to Evansville.
Eric DeJulio (Creighton University) - D - Jr - Started in #9 Creighton's 1-0 win over Drake. Started in Creighton's 2-1 win over Butler.
Daniel Hare (Loyola University in Chicago) - D - Jr - Started in Loyola's 2-1 OT loss to Drake.
Andrew Lightner (Dayton) - D - RSo - Started in Dayton's 1-1 draw with George Mason.
Andrew Miller (Baker University) - D - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Baker's 3-1 loss to Oklahoma Wesleyan. Did not play in Baker's 2-0 win over Culver-Stockton.
Nate Opperman (University of Evansville) - F - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Evansville's 2-1 win over Bradley.
Derek Schrick (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - Jr - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Chris Tuso (Baker) - MF - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Baker's 3-1 loss to Oklahoma Wesleyan. Came on as a substitute in Baker's 2-0 win over Culver-Stockton.
Shane Woods (Drury University) - F - Jr - Came on as a substitute in Drury's 2-1 win over Bellarmine. Came on as a substitute and had an assist in Drury's 2-0 win over McKendree.
Class of 2013
Joe Amico (Jacksonville) - D - So - Started in Jacksonville's 2-1 loss to Appalachian State.
Chris Arce (Neosho CC) - MF - So - No game this week.
Matt Bernard (Drake) - MF - RFr - Did not play in Drake's 1-0 loss to Creighton. Came on as a substitute in Drake's 2-1 OT win over Loyola.
Paul Dean (Rockhurst University) - D - So - Started in Rockhurst's 2-1 loss to Illinois-Springfield. Started and had an assist in Rockhurst's 1-1 draw wtih Southern Indiana.
Seo-In Kim (Duke) - MF - So - Came on as a substitute in Duke's 1-0 loss to #14 Virginia.
Adam Lightner (Northern Illinois University) - D - So - Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 2-0 loss to Northwestern. Came on as a substitute in Northern Illinois' 1-1 draw with West Virginia.
Clay Stewart - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF/D - So - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Wes White (University of Missouri Kansas City) - F - RFr - Started in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State Bakersfield. Started in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Austin Wilcox (University of Missouri Kansas City) - MF - So - Did not play in either of UMKC's games.
Drew Wilson (Fort Hays State University) - D - So - Started and had a goal in Fort Hays' 3-2 win over Upper Iowa. Started in Fort Hays' 8-3 win over Southern Nazarene.
Kyle Vassar - (University of Missouri Kansas City) - D - RFr - Did not play in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State Bakersfield. Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Class of 2014
Darby Cronin (University of Missouri Kansas City)- MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in UMKC's 1-0 loss to Cal State BAkersfield. Started and had an assist in UMKC's 1-1 draw with San Jose State.
Andrew Dittemore (Missouri State) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Missouri State's games.
Andy Ericks (Colorado School of Mines) - MF - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Colorado's 3-1 win over Adams State. Did not play in Colorado's 1-0 win over Fort Lewis.
Heath Honold (Wake Forest) - F - Fr - Did not play in either of Wake's games.
Mason Leonard (Drake) - D - Fr - Started in Drake's 1-0 loss to Creighton. Started in Drake's 2-1 OT win over Loyola.
Blake Levine (Baker) - F - Fr - Started and had a goal in Baker's 3-1 loss to Oklahoma Wesleyan. Started in Baker's 2-0 win over Culver-Stockton.
Matthew Lewis (Fordham) - D - Fr - Started in Fordham's 3-1 win over La Salle. Started in Fordham's 2-0 win over Saint Joseph's.
Andy Lopez (North Carolina) - MF - Fr - Did not play in either of North Carolina's games.
Noah Mudd (Trevecca) - D - Fr - Started in Trevecca's 2-0 win over Ohio Valley.
Joey Piatczyc (West Virginia) - MF - Fr - Started in West Virginia's 1-1 draw wtih Northern Illinois.
Cole Stevenson (Denver) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in Denver's 2-1 loss to Bradley. Came on as a substitute in Denver's 1-0 win over UIC.
Austin Williamson (Northeastern State University) - GK - Fr - Did not play in either of Northeastern's games.
Zach Wright (North Carolina) - F - Fr - Came on as a substitute in North Carolina's 3-0 win over Campbell. Came on as a substitute in North Carolina's 5-0 win over Virginia Tech.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
What We Want to Happen Today 10/12
Results yesterday didn't really go Kansas City's way as both Columbus and New York got wins to keep the Eastern Conference tight all the way from first to fifth in playoff positioning. Here's a look at today's games.
DC at Houston
What we want to happen - Houston win
A win by the Dynamo will keep DC just three points ahead of second place New England and KC. And the Dynamo need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
LA at Dallas
What we want to happen - LA Win
It all goes back to hosting MLS Cup. LA is already out of reach of Kansas City, but a win for the Galaxy would keep Dallas from moving past KC in points.
DC at Houston
What we want to happen - Houston win
A win by the Dynamo will keep DC just three points ahead of second place New England and KC. And the Dynamo need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
LA at Dallas
What we want to happen - LA Win
It all goes back to hosting MLS Cup. LA is already out of reach of Kansas City, but a win for the Galaxy would keep Dallas from moving past KC in points.
Saturday, October 11, 2014
S.A.S. Saturday After Stats
Dom Dwyer's goal was his 22nd of the season in all competitions, tying him with Preki for the most goals in a single season in all competitions.
Dwyer's goal was his 14th in league play at home, tying him with Jimmy Conrad for 9th all time on that list.
It was Dwyer's 16th in all competitions at home, tying him with Digital Takawira for 8th all time on that list.
Graham Zusi's goal was his 24th in all competitions for his MLS career, tying him with Teal Bunbury for 11th on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 13th in league play at home, tying him with Mark Chung for 11th all time on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 14th in all competitions at home, tying him with Conrad for 12th all time on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 8th game winner for KC in league play, tying him with Takawira for 6th all time on that list.
It was his 8th game winner in all competitions as well, tying him with Dwyer, Takawira, Scott Sealy, and Igor Simutenkov for 8th on that list.
In the 20th minute, Zusi moved past Jimmy Nielsen and into 14th place for minutes played in all competitions. Zusi finished the game with 12,917 minutes played.
Matt Besler made his 149th league appearance for KC, tying him with Mo Johnston and Michael Harrington for 8th place on that list.
Lawrence Olum started his 50th competitive game for KC, he's the 52nd player to hit that mark.
Dwyer's goal was his 14th in league play at home, tying him with Jimmy Conrad for 9th all time on that list.
It was Dwyer's 16th in all competitions at home, tying him with Digital Takawira for 8th all time on that list.
Graham Zusi's goal was his 24th in all competitions for his MLS career, tying him with Teal Bunbury for 11th on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 13th in league play at home, tying him with Mark Chung for 11th all time on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 14th in all competitions at home, tying him with Conrad for 12th all time on that list.
Zusi's goal was his 8th game winner for KC in league play, tying him with Takawira for 6th all time on that list.
It was his 8th game winner in all competitions as well, tying him with Dwyer, Takawira, Scott Sealy, and Igor Simutenkov for 8th on that list.
In the 20th minute, Zusi moved past Jimmy Nielsen and into 14th place for minutes played in all competitions. Zusi finished the game with 12,917 minutes played.
Matt Besler made his 149th league appearance for KC, tying him with Mo Johnston and Michael Harrington for 8th place on that list.
Lawrence Olum started his 50th competitive game for KC, he's the 52nd player to hit that mark.
Besler and Zusi Called Up for Honduras Friendly
After last night's friendly against Ecuador, US Men's National Team coach, Jurgen Klinsmann has made some changes to his roster ahead of a second friendly on Tuesday against Honduras in Miami, Florida.
Two new additions to the roster are Sporting KC's World Cup veterans, Matt Besler and Graham Zusi. The pair leaves Kansas City to join up with the national team game ahead of the game on the 14th.
The two will face off against teammate, Jorge Claros who played 90 minutes in Honduras' 2-0 loss to Mexico on Thursday.
The three players will return to Kansas City after that and two of the three will be available for Sporting's next game against Philadelphia. Claros will still be suspended.
Two new additions to the roster are Sporting KC's World Cup veterans, Matt Besler and Graham Zusi. The pair leaves Kansas City to join up with the national team game ahead of the game on the 14th.
The two will face off against teammate, Jorge Claros who played 90 minutes in Honduras' 2-0 loss to Mexico on Thursday.
The three players will return to Kansas City after that and two of the three will be available for Sporting's next game against Philadelphia. Claros will still be suspended.
Sporting Clinches Playoff Berth on Backs of Gruenebaum and Zusi
Sporting KC clinched their fourth straight playoff berth last night at Sporting Park as they beat the Chciago Fire 2-0. Sporing was led by goalkeeper Andy Gruenebaum who recorded six saves and Graham Zusi who had a goal and an assist in the game.
The game started well for Sporting as they pressured the Fire early on and in the12th minute won a penalty kick. Benny Feilhaber did a god job keeping the ball under pressure on the left side of the field before playing the ball to Kevin Ellis who was right at the top of the box. Ellis played the ball back to Feilhaber who dribbled into the box. Feilhaber cut inside two defenders and was brought down by Lovel Palmer. Referee Kevin Stott immediately pointed to the spot. Dom Dwyer stepped up for Kansas City but skied his penalty kick over the bar as the score remained level. That seemed to be the shot in the arm that the Fire needed as they started to get further into the game. In the 21st minute Gruenebam was called upon for a big save. Alex jumped over a sliding challenge from Igor Juliao down the wing. The Brazilian played a cross into the box that Gruenebaum got a small punch on but not enough to get it cleared. The ball was headed back into the middle where Matt Besler beat Florent Sinama-Pongolle to the ball, his header though fell to Matt Watson who fired a shot on goal, but Gruenebaum had recovered and was able to make a diving save to push the ball away for a corner. In the 27th Gruenebaum was again called upon to make a good save. Harry Shipp did a good job switching the field to Quincy Amarikwa. The forward played the ball out wide to Watson who dribbled into the box. Watson laid the ball back to Amarikwa who fired a shot low to Gruenebaum's near post, but he got down well and knocked it out. Sporting almost had a goal of their own minutes later in the 30th. Dwyer got played in behind the Chicago back line. Out wide of goal near the end line he played the ball back to the top of the box where Feilhaber was racing onto the ball. He fired his shot on goal but Sean Johnson got down low and tipped the ball onto the post. The ball bounced back into Johnson's face and the Chicago keeper grabbed the ball. When the half time whistle blew, the Fire had actually looked the more dangerous of the two teams.
The second half saw Kansas City come out and reestablish their high pressure and controlled the game better. In the 58th KC almost struck on the counter. After Besler won the ball in KC's half of the field KC countered through Dwyer. The Englishman was out numbered but from outside the box cut inside and tried to curl a shot but just missed the post. KC had another good opportunity in the 75th. Besler cleared a ball up field in a challenge. The ball went towards Zusi who was racing into the box. Johnson raced off his line and beat Zusi to the ball, but the ball hit off Zusi and continued forward. With Johnson out of position Zusi tried to fire the ball in from a tight angle. Bakary Soumare though was there to clear the ball off the line. It looked like Kansas City would be headed towards another draw with the Fire when Zusi stepped up again in the 80th minute. Ellis and Juliao combined down the right before Ellis squared the ball into the middle for Zusi. Zusi ran at Logan Pause, who was marking Zusi, but a run by Paulo Nagamura also helped to pull Pause's intention. Zusi took another touch and fired a shot into the far corner of the goal to make it 1-0 Kansas City. Down a goal the Fire pushed forward but couldn't find themselves good chances. And in stoppage time Sporting found the best way to defend a one goal lead, score a second. Zusi did a good job down the right finding space against Soumare. Zusi got enough space to play a cross into the middle. Dwyer out jumped Palmer for the ball and headed the ball back towards the near post and into the net giving Kansas City a 2-0 lead. KC was able to kill the rest of the game and clinch their playoff berth.
Wizards Man of the Match - Andy Gruenebaum - The KC native did extremely well in net last night. After the missed PK by Dwyer, Gruenebaum did extremely well to keep Sporting in the game. He returned the faith that Peter Vermes showed in him starting him over Eric Kronberg.
Honorable mention - Graham Zusi
Player Ratings - Gruenebaum 8, Juliao 6, Besler 7, Ellis 7, Sinovic 6, Olum 6, Nagamura 6, Feilhaber 7, Zusi 8, Dwyer 6, Dovale 6. Subs Sapong 6, Lopez NR, Saad NR.
The game started well for Sporting as they pressured the Fire early on and in the12th minute won a penalty kick. Benny Feilhaber did a god job keeping the ball under pressure on the left side of the field before playing the ball to Kevin Ellis who was right at the top of the box. Ellis played the ball back to Feilhaber who dribbled into the box. Feilhaber cut inside two defenders and was brought down by Lovel Palmer. Referee Kevin Stott immediately pointed to the spot. Dom Dwyer stepped up for Kansas City but skied his penalty kick over the bar as the score remained level. That seemed to be the shot in the arm that the Fire needed as they started to get further into the game. In the 21st minute Gruenebam was called upon for a big save. Alex jumped over a sliding challenge from Igor Juliao down the wing. The Brazilian played a cross into the box that Gruenebaum got a small punch on but not enough to get it cleared. The ball was headed back into the middle where Matt Besler beat Florent Sinama-Pongolle to the ball, his header though fell to Matt Watson who fired a shot on goal, but Gruenebaum had recovered and was able to make a diving save to push the ball away for a corner. In the 27th Gruenebaum was again called upon to make a good save. Harry Shipp did a good job switching the field to Quincy Amarikwa. The forward played the ball out wide to Watson who dribbled into the box. Watson laid the ball back to Amarikwa who fired a shot low to Gruenebaum's near post, but he got down well and knocked it out. Sporting almost had a goal of their own minutes later in the 30th. Dwyer got played in behind the Chicago back line. Out wide of goal near the end line he played the ball back to the top of the box where Feilhaber was racing onto the ball. He fired his shot on goal but Sean Johnson got down low and tipped the ball onto the post. The ball bounced back into Johnson's face and the Chicago keeper grabbed the ball. When the half time whistle blew, the Fire had actually looked the more dangerous of the two teams.
The second half saw Kansas City come out and reestablish their high pressure and controlled the game better. In the 58th KC almost struck on the counter. After Besler won the ball in KC's half of the field KC countered through Dwyer. The Englishman was out numbered but from outside the box cut inside and tried to curl a shot but just missed the post. KC had another good opportunity in the 75th. Besler cleared a ball up field in a challenge. The ball went towards Zusi who was racing into the box. Johnson raced off his line and beat Zusi to the ball, but the ball hit off Zusi and continued forward. With Johnson out of position Zusi tried to fire the ball in from a tight angle. Bakary Soumare though was there to clear the ball off the line. It looked like Kansas City would be headed towards another draw with the Fire when Zusi stepped up again in the 80th minute. Ellis and Juliao combined down the right before Ellis squared the ball into the middle for Zusi. Zusi ran at Logan Pause, who was marking Zusi, but a run by Paulo Nagamura also helped to pull Pause's intention. Zusi took another touch and fired a shot into the far corner of the goal to make it 1-0 Kansas City. Down a goal the Fire pushed forward but couldn't find themselves good chances. And in stoppage time Sporting found the best way to defend a one goal lead, score a second. Zusi did a good job down the right finding space against Soumare. Zusi got enough space to play a cross into the middle. Dwyer out jumped Palmer for the ball and headed the ball back towards the near post and into the net giving Kansas City a 2-0 lead. KC was able to kill the rest of the game and clinch their playoff berth.
Wizards Man of the Match - Andy Gruenebaum - The KC native did extremely well in net last night. After the missed PK by Dwyer, Gruenebaum did extremely well to keep Sporting in the game. He returned the faith that Peter Vermes showed in him starting him over Eric Kronberg.
Honorable mention - Graham Zusi
Player Ratings - Gruenebaum 8, Juliao 6, Besler 7, Ellis 7, Sinovic 6, Olum 6, Nagamura 6, Feilhaber 7, Zusi 8, Dwyer 6, Dovale 6. Subs Sapong 6, Lopez NR, Saad NR.
What We Want to Happen Today 10/11
With a win last night, KC got themselves into the playoffs, now it becomes a matter of seeding for Sporting KC. Here's a look at the games today in MLS and who we want to win.
New England at Montreal
What we want to happen - Montreal win
A win by the Impact will keep Kansas City second in the Eastern Conference heading into the final two games. This would allow KC to host the second leg of the home-home series in the playoffs.
Columbus at Philadelphia
What we want to happen -Philadelphia win
A loss by the Crew would mean that Columbus cannot pass Kansas City, they'd only be able to tie Sporting on points, and Sporting would win the first tiebreaker which is most wins.
Toronto at New York
What we want to happen - Toronto win
While a loss or a draw combined with a Columbus loss would mean KC clinched a top four spot, I'd rather keep the distance between Kansas City and the fourth place spot which has to play the play in game. Plus it would take Toronto winning out, KC losing out, AND Toronto making up the 17 goal difference in the two teams goal difference for Toronto to pass KC, so Toronto winning is fine.
San Jose at Salt Lake
What we want to happen - San Jose win
A win by San Jose would keep Salt Lake behind KC in the single table standings, which means that if both teams made it to MLS Cup again, KC would be host if they finish with more points.
Colorado at Chivas
What we want to happen - doesn't matter
Both teams are eliminated from the playoff race, the result means nothing.
New England at Montreal
What we want to happen - Montreal win
A win by the Impact will keep Kansas City second in the Eastern Conference heading into the final two games. This would allow KC to host the second leg of the home-home series in the playoffs.
Columbus at Philadelphia
What we want to happen -Philadelphia win
A loss by the Crew would mean that Columbus cannot pass Kansas City, they'd only be able to tie Sporting on points, and Sporting would win the first tiebreaker which is most wins.
Toronto at New York
What we want to happen - Toronto win
While a loss or a draw combined with a Columbus loss would mean KC clinched a top four spot, I'd rather keep the distance between Kansas City and the fourth place spot which has to play the play in game. Plus it would take Toronto winning out, KC losing out, AND Toronto making up the 17 goal difference in the two teams goal difference for Toronto to pass KC, so Toronto winning is fine.
San Jose at Salt Lake
What we want to happen - San Jose win
A win by San Jose would keep Salt Lake behind KC in the single table standings, which means that if both teams made it to MLS Cup again, KC would be host if they finish with more points.
Colorado at Chivas
What we want to happen - doesn't matter
Both teams are eliminated from the playoff race, the result means nothing.
Thursday, October 09, 2014
Match Day 32 - Playoffs Within Reach
Despite the losses, the winless run, and the two wins in their last 10 games, Sporting Kansas City have the chance to clinch a playoff berth tomorrow night against the Chicago Fire, a win and Sporting is into the playoffs again this year. Standing in their way at Sporting Park, the Fire have been eliminated from the playoff race this year already.
The same Chicago team has set a league record for draws in a season having drawn the 18 of their 31 games so far this season. The Fire struggled in their last outing against the Montreal Impact, not creating much in the way of chances, and luckily having a goal by Jack McInerney incorrectly ruled offside. Chicago though is undefeated against KC so far this season, winning 2-1 in Chicago and drawing 1-1 in a meeting at Sporting Park earlier this season. Chicago will be playing tomorrow without defender, Gonzalo Segares, who is suspended for the game after picking up a yellow card against Montreal.
Sporting KC for their part did look much better defensively against DC United than they had in a while. The shutout was KC's first against a team not named Chivas USA in league play since a 1-0 win over Portland in late June. KC though will have to replace one member of the back line that got that draw though as Seth Sinovic will miss the game due to yellow card accumulation. The question for who will fill in for him could rely on whether Aurelien Collin is ready to return to the team after his ankle injury. In this week's press conference, Peter Vermes said Collin was questionable but was feeling more positive about him by the day. If Collin can go, Kevin Ellis can slide from the center of defense to the left back position to fill in for Sinovic. If Collin can't go, the left back position may go to another returning player, Jacob Peterson. "The Answer," normally a forward has played in the back for Kansas City already so him filling in for Sinovic would not be a surprise. Also in the back, Andy Gruenebaum has been given the green light by Vermes and will be the starter going forward for KC.
Number to remember - 51 - That's how many consecutive sellouts that Sporting has at Sporting Park in MLS competitions. Dating back to an early season game in 2012, Sporting has sold out every game since then. That streak is likely in jeopardy tomorrow night because of a number of factors both locally and nationally. First tomorrow, before Sporting even takes the field, the US men's national team takes on Ecuador at 6pm CST in the final national team appearance for Landon Donovan. That game alone will draw some fans away from the game, but then locally there are things bigger than that. The KC Royals begin play in their first ALCS in 29 years tomorrow in Baltimore, with the first pitch occurring less than 30 minutes before kick off. Finally less than an hour away from Sporting Park, Late Night at the Phog, the tip off of the KU basketball season starts at 6:30. So there are a number of things that will pull people away from Sporting Park. And even if the game is an announced sellout, I'd expect there to be a number of empty seats.
Key Match Up - Benny Feilhaber vs Jeff Larentowicz - For Sporting KC to be successful down the stretch, Feilhaber is going to need to get back to his early season form when he was almost unstoppable in the midfield. Tomorrow he'll match up against Chicago's captain, which should be fun to watch.
PREDICTION - Kansas City has just one win at Sporting Park against the Fire since the stadium opened in 2011. That was a 2-0 win in 2012 when Graham Zusi scored a brace. Since that win, KC has draw their two games at Sporting Park against the Fire. With the Fire making a habit of drawing not just at Sporting Park, but this season as a whole I see this one tomorrow going the same way and Sporting having to continue to wait to clinch a playoff spot.
SKC - 0
CHI - 0
The same Chicago team has set a league record for draws in a season having drawn the 18 of their 31 games so far this season. The Fire struggled in their last outing against the Montreal Impact, not creating much in the way of chances, and luckily having a goal by Jack McInerney incorrectly ruled offside. Chicago though is undefeated against KC so far this season, winning 2-1 in Chicago and drawing 1-1 in a meeting at Sporting Park earlier this season. Chicago will be playing tomorrow without defender, Gonzalo Segares, who is suspended for the game after picking up a yellow card against Montreal.
Sporting KC for their part did look much better defensively against DC United than they had in a while. The shutout was KC's first against a team not named Chivas USA in league play since a 1-0 win over Portland in late June. KC though will have to replace one member of the back line that got that draw though as Seth Sinovic will miss the game due to yellow card accumulation. The question for who will fill in for him could rely on whether Aurelien Collin is ready to return to the team after his ankle injury. In this week's press conference, Peter Vermes said Collin was questionable but was feeling more positive about him by the day. If Collin can go, Kevin Ellis can slide from the center of defense to the left back position to fill in for Sinovic. If Collin can't go, the left back position may go to another returning player, Jacob Peterson. "The Answer," normally a forward has played in the back for Kansas City already so him filling in for Sinovic would not be a surprise. Also in the back, Andy Gruenebaum has been given the green light by Vermes and will be the starter going forward for KC.
Greuenbaum
Juliao - Ellis - Besler - Peterson
Nagamura - Olum
Feilhaber
Sapong - Dwyer - Zusi
Number to remember - 51 - That's how many consecutive sellouts that Sporting has at Sporting Park in MLS competitions. Dating back to an early season game in 2012, Sporting has sold out every game since then. That streak is likely in jeopardy tomorrow night because of a number of factors both locally and nationally. First tomorrow, before Sporting even takes the field, the US men's national team takes on Ecuador at 6pm CST in the final national team appearance for Landon Donovan. That game alone will draw some fans away from the game, but then locally there are things bigger than that. The KC Royals begin play in their first ALCS in 29 years tomorrow in Baltimore, with the first pitch occurring less than 30 minutes before kick off. Finally less than an hour away from Sporting Park, Late Night at the Phog, the tip off of the KU basketball season starts at 6:30. So there are a number of things that will pull people away from Sporting Park. And even if the game is an announced sellout, I'd expect there to be a number of empty seats.
Key Match Up - Benny Feilhaber vs Jeff Larentowicz - For Sporting KC to be successful down the stretch, Feilhaber is going to need to get back to his early season form when he was almost unstoppable in the midfield. Tomorrow he'll match up against Chicago's captain, which should be fun to watch.
PREDICTION - Kansas City has just one win at Sporting Park against the Fire since the stadium opened in 2011. That was a 2-0 win in 2012 when Graham Zusi scored a brace. Since that win, KC has draw their two games at Sporting Park against the Fire. With the Fire making a habit of drawing not just at Sporting Park, but this season as a whole I see this one tomorrow going the same way and Sporting having to continue to wait to clinch a playoff spot.
SKC - 0
CHI - 0
How Sporting KC Qualify for the Playoffs with a Win Tomorrow
With last night's loss by Toronto FC, Sporting KC is now just a win away from clinching a playoff spot for the fourth straight year. If Sporting KC can defeat the Chicago Fire tomorrow at Sporting Park that will guarantee them a playoff berth. MLS' site may not say it, but Sporting's playoff math does, and I'll try to quickly break down how that is, I hope this makes sense to you (it does to me in my head).
Right now Sporting KC sits in third place in the Eastern Conference on 46 points, two ahead of fourth place New York. DC has already clinched a playoff berth while Chicago and Montreal are both eliminated from the playoff race.
| Team | Points | Wins | |
| 1 | DC United | 52 | 15 |
| 2 | New England | 48 | 15 |
| 3 | Sporting | 46 | 13 |
| 4 | New York | 44 | 11 |
| 5 | Columbus | 43 | 11 |
| 6 | Toronto | 40 | 11 |
| 7 | Houston | 39 | 11 |
| 8 | Philadelphia | 39 | 9 |
| 9 | Chicago | 33 | 5 |
| 10 | Montreal | 25 | 6 |
A win puts Kansas City on 49 points, making it impossible for Houston or Philadelphia to catch KC. That leaves just New York, Columbus, and Toronto as being able to catch Kansas City. For Toronto to catch Kansas City, that would mean that they would have to win out, beating New York, Montreal, and New England. That would give Toronto 49 points and 14 wins, tying them with Kansas City. Toronto would need to overcome what is now a 15 goal difference between the two teams (would be at least 16 if KC beats Chicago) to finish ahead of KC on the second tie breaker though.
Meanwhile, Columbus would need to win two of their last three to tie Kansas City's 49 point total. The Crew play Philadelphia twice and New York once. Their point maximum is 52, but if the Crew and KC tie on points at 49, Kansas City would finish ahead of the Crew by virtue of the fact that KC would have 14 wins to the Crew's 13.
Finally, New York would need five points from their final three games to tie KC. I've already pointed out above though that Toronto needs to beat New York to keep their hopes of catching KC alive, so let's assume that Toronto beats New York, that leaves games against Columbus and Kansas City. A win against KC would still leave them two points short of Sporting. So New York would have to beat the Crew and get to 50 points to move ahead of KC. So then for the Crew to get to 49 points and tie KC, they'd need to win both games against Philadelphia.
So in that scenario, here's how the 3rd through 6th spot would look in the East.
| Team | Points | Wins | |
| 3 | New York | 50 | 13 |
| 4 | Sporting | 49 | 14 |
| 5 | Toronto | 49 | 14 |
| 6 | Columbus | 49 | 13 |
With just the one win KC still qualifies as them and Toronto would beat out the Crew on the second tiebreaker, most wins. And if any of those results don't follow that process, one of the three teams will not be able to pass Sporting. So while each team individually could still pass KC, all three teams could not.
A draw tomorrow can also see KC qualify this weekend, although it would take help elsewhere. If Sporting draw with the Chicago Fire tomorrow, and let's be honest, the Fire have 18 draws this year, a draw would seem to be the favored result tomorrow if you were betting on the game, then they'll need all the teams below the playoff line to drop points.
A draw would put KC on 47 points, which means that Toronto FC would still have to win out to pass them, so a loss to New York this weekend takes them out of the equation. The draw would also keep Houston and Philadelphia alive in their race to catch KC. But dropped points by the two of them to DC and Columbus respectively would see them unable to catch KC. Put all three together with a draw and KC is into the playoffs that way.
A loss to the Fire and things get even more complicated for Kansas City, especially if other results go against them this weekend.
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