At the ReAL game last weekend, my family and I sat behind the "Golden Row," which was a group of girls who won a promotion by McDonald's and were sporting red shirts (blazoned with "McDonald's" across the front, natch) a tooting on those obnoxious horns. They got a few seconds on the video screen for their troubles.
The loudest of the group was quite knowledgeable of soccer. The others were a bit prissy...and one came up with the best line after she watched the players dissappear into the locker room. She returned to her seat, walking slowly with a wrinkled nose, saying "Ew, they're so sweaty."
It turns out, running for 45 minutes does induce a sweat. I think a full 90 does the same, but I didn't hear her assessment after the match.
Maybe she is usually a baseball spectator.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Houston Fandom
This past Saturday saw only 16,904 fans at the Dynamo-ReAL game. Sitting in the stands I would have guessed about 20,000. It was a spirited group at least, and ~17,000 is definitely on the upper end of the MLS-attendance spectrum.
The fans tried to do the wave twice, but it didn’t get more than a few sections along on the west side. In the KC game, with 20K present, the wave made it completely around the stadium 2 times.
The supporters’ group, the Texian Army, kept things lively at the north end. They were able to harass Garlick in the goal throughout the second half. Streamers and jeers were some of the distractions he had to contend with. (And that was the half we scored a brace; coincidence?)
Of course the best part of the night was the victory. We were able to get a close-eye view of the game and my kids were up close to see the players walking back to the locker room after the game. The kids got a big kick out of that.
I think there won’t be any attendance issues at the next home game, when the Texas derby begins and FC Dallas is in town.
The fans tried to do the wave twice, but it didn’t get more than a few sections along on the west side. In the KC game, with 20K present, the wave made it completely around the stadium 2 times.
The supporters’ group, the Texian Army, kept things lively at the north end. They were able to harass Garlick in the goal throughout the second half. Streamers and jeers were some of the distractions he had to contend with. (And that was the half we scored a brace; coincidence?)
Of course the best part of the night was the victory. We were able to get a close-eye view of the game and my kids were up close to see the players walking back to the locker room after the game. The kids got a big kick out of that.
I think there won’t be any attendance issues at the next home game, when the Texas derby begins and FC Dallas is in town.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
ReAL Close
There was a lot of spirit at Robertson last night. My family (and I) arrived several hours prior to the game and wandered around the booths and ate some grub we’d brought with us. The weather was pleasant, although not as crisp as at the KC game two weeks ago.
The game itself was electric. Dynamo looked sharp nearly the entire game, controlling possession and the field. We sat at the field level, about 18 yards from the north goal line. Great action there in the second half.
It was against the run of play that ReAL Salt Lake scored first. Eddie Robinson recently returned from injury to bring some experience to our back line. Whether through individual rust of collective teamwork rust, he was instrumental in the giveaway that led to Cunningham getting his first goal. RSL up on Dynamo 1-0 early in the second half. Not good.
To Dynamo’s credit, they reversed their recent trend. In their first two home games, Dynamo gave away a goal immediately after going up one goal. On Saturday, Dynamo got a goal off a corner mere minutes after giving up the Cunningham goal. Waibel skied up and knocked home a Brad Davis corner. That’s a goal and an assist from two players recently off the injured reserve. It’s nice to see them back in action again (and with Robinson back as well, we’re nearly full strength).
Jason Kreis (who is always tied to his league leading 101 career goals) had an awesome free kick later in the half that should have gone in. It beat Onstad, but not the woodwork, then traversed across the face of the goal untouched to his the other post, then bounced back in front of the goal before DeRo was able to clear it. Yikes! That ball should have been in, but it was justice to the overall balance of play that they didn’t get that goal.
Note that Serioux played an outstanding game overall, but lost the ball in the back and had to make a professional foul (though nicely camouflaged to appear almost as if their feet got tangled to limit himself to a Yellow) to prevent a goal. It was this foul that led to Kreis’ free kick above.
DeRo had a steal of his own with about 6 minutes left of regulation, and he was able to drive down to the goal and beat Garlick at the far post to tally the winner. That was a nice effort (assisted by a chest-pass from Ching) to make the wonderful gameplay and pleasant evening all the more delightful.
Next week, it’s Colorado again -- this time a mile in the air.
The game itself was electric. Dynamo looked sharp nearly the entire game, controlling possession and the field. We sat at the field level, about 18 yards from the north goal line. Great action there in the second half.
It was against the run of play that ReAL Salt Lake scored first. Eddie Robinson recently returned from injury to bring some experience to our back line. Whether through individual rust of collective teamwork rust, he was instrumental in the giveaway that led to Cunningham getting his first goal. RSL up on Dynamo 1-0 early in the second half. Not good.
To Dynamo’s credit, they reversed their recent trend. In their first two home games, Dynamo gave away a goal immediately after going up one goal. On Saturday, Dynamo got a goal off a corner mere minutes after giving up the Cunningham goal. Waibel skied up and knocked home a Brad Davis corner. That’s a goal and an assist from two players recently off the injured reserve. It’s nice to see them back in action again (and with Robinson back as well, we’re nearly full strength).
Jason Kreis (who is always tied to his league leading 101 career goals) had an awesome free kick later in the half that should have gone in. It beat Onstad, but not the woodwork, then traversed across the face of the goal untouched to his the other post, then bounced back in front of the goal before DeRo was able to clear it. Yikes! That ball should have been in, but it was justice to the overall balance of play that they didn’t get that goal.
Note that Serioux played an outstanding game overall, but lost the ball in the back and had to make a professional foul (though nicely camouflaged to appear almost as if their feet got tangled to limit himself to a Yellow) to prevent a goal. It was this foul that led to Kreis’ free kick above.
DeRo had a steal of his own with about 6 minutes left of regulation, and he was able to drive down to the goal and beat Garlick at the far post to tally the winner. That was a nice effort (assisted by a chest-pass from Ching) to make the wonderful gameplay and pleasant evening all the more delightful.
Next week, it’s Colorado again -- this time a mile in the air.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
ReAL Opportunity
Today Dynamo hosts ReAL Salt Lake. (On a related note, try the real Salt Lick in Dripping Springs for some of the best BBQ you can find.) ReAL is in its sophomore year after a mostly forgettable 2005. This year they've had trouble finding their stride, so hopefully Dynamo can take advantage of this and come away with 3 points.
ReAL has talent, particularly on set pieces, which has proven to be a weakness of Dynamo. If Dynamo can stay organized versus set pieces then they should do well. Dynamo also needs to stay focused after scoring, as they have given away goals just minutes after scoring in two of their three games.
Here's hoping that Ching scores bucketloads today. I hope to see some creative play from DeRo as well. I'm pulling for Brad Davis to score or have an assist today, as it would really help my fantasy soccer team.
I'm thinking Dynamo 2, ReAL 0. Let's hope I'm spot on with regards to ReAL, but understating Dynamo.
ReAL has talent, particularly on set pieces, which has proven to be a weakness of Dynamo. If Dynamo can stay organized versus set pieces then they should do well. Dynamo also needs to stay focused after scoring, as they have given away goals just minutes after scoring in two of their three games.
Here's hoping that Ching scores bucketloads today. I hope to see some creative play from DeRo as well. I'm pulling for Brad Davis to score or have an assist today, as it would really help my fantasy soccer team.
I'm thinking Dynamo 2, ReAL 0. Let's hope I'm spot on with regards to ReAL, but understating Dynamo.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Roadkill
What is this? I go away for a few days to sunny Ft. Lauderdale, and Dynamo-H falls apart? They lose their first road game to DC United?
I admit, I was toodling around S. Fla, so I can't comment on the match. I have read mixed reports, from DC dominating the game, to both teams dominating stretches of the game. Ching netted another goal and, for the 2nd consecutive game we had a goal taken away due to offside.
I imagine we missed DeRo, who had to sit out due to the Red Card versus KC. That card hurt us in two games.
The good news from the game is that Brad Davis and Craig Waibel have returned from injury. (Davis playing all 90.) Hopefully they return quickly to form so we can be particularly formidable. Other good news is that we threatened frequently throughout the game, and that was without DeRo. Serioux apparently also played passionately. I've been impressed with him so far this year.
So far we've allowed 2 goals in every game we've played. I'm hoping that Onstad and his D significantly cut into that average this coming week versus Real Salt Lake. We also need Ching to tally some this coming week, and if anyone else in Orange wants to join in the scoring, be my guest.
I admit, I was toodling around S. Fla, so I can't comment on the match. I have read mixed reports, from DC dominating the game, to both teams dominating stretches of the game. Ching netted another goal and, for the 2nd consecutive game we had a goal taken away due to offside.
I imagine we missed DeRo, who had to sit out due to the Red Card versus KC. That card hurt us in two games.
The good news from the game is that Brad Davis and Craig Waibel have returned from injury. (Davis playing all 90.) Hopefully they return quickly to form so we can be particularly formidable. Other good news is that we threatened frequently throughout the game, and that was without DeRo. Serioux apparently also played passionately. I've been impressed with him so far this year.
So far we've allowed 2 goals in every game we've played. I'm hoping that Onstad and his D significantly cut into that average this coming week versus Real Salt Lake. We also need Ching to tally some this coming week, and if anyone else in Orange wants to join in the scoring, be my guest.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Onstad, the right player
Mark Connolly has a nice article on Pat Onstad.
It seems that Pat and Youri Djorkaeff are the only MLSers older than me. They're now my favorite players.
I just wish I could find a local 30+ team so I can show my arthritic moves and pay poor homage to Pat and Youri.
Great paragraph by Connolly:
"What's amazing about Dynamo is how this team continues to play, regardless of records, the best soccer [his emphasis] in the league. They move the ball around the park better than any club, and seem to be just a little bit more unselfish than their opponents. It doesn't matter that they've lost Landon Donovan, Richard Mulrooney, Ronnie Ekelund, Jeff Agoos and Danny Califf over the past two seasons, alone. They simply re-load, re-focus and continue to be a major force in the Western Conference."
To paraphrase Onstad's reply to this observation (and blend it with a line from the hockey movie, Miracle): the best teams don't field the best players; they field the right players.
Onstad is one of the right players. And he's older than me. If you're reading this Mr. Onstad, feel free to increase the font size so it's easier for you to read this series of left-handed compliments.
It seems that Pat and Youri Djorkaeff are the only MLSers older than me. They're now my favorite players.
I just wish I could find a local 30+ team so I can show my arthritic moves and pay poor homage to Pat and Youri.
Great paragraph by Connolly:
"What's amazing about Dynamo is how this team continues to play, regardless of records, the best soccer [his emphasis] in the league. They move the ball around the park better than any club, and seem to be just a little bit more unselfish than their opponents. It doesn't matter that they've lost Landon Donovan, Richard Mulrooney, Ronnie Ekelund, Jeff Agoos and Danny Califf over the past two seasons, alone. They simply re-load, re-focus and continue to be a major force in the Western Conference."
To paraphrase Onstad's reply to this observation (and blend it with a line from the hockey movie, Miracle): the best teams don't field the best players; they field the right players.
Onstad is one of the right players. And he's older than me. If you're reading this Mr. Onstad, feel free to increase the font size so it's easier for you to read this series of left-handed compliments.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Ching & the US vs Reggae Boyz
Versus Jamaica last night, the US managed to control play much of the time even with pretty pedestrian play. The team had trouble containing counterattacks, and it cost them in the fourth minute. It was disturbing that, even with Ricketts' (Jamaica's GK) seeming nonchalance and iffy hands, we couldn't get more than one in the net. Despite what some observers say, though, yesterday's result is not an indictment of our chances in the World Cup. Yesterday saw an MLS-only team, with a feted goalkeeper minding the net, and experimental substitutions throughout the game.
Brian Ching had a competent game. He got up for some headers -- although his headers weren't as dangerous as Chris Albright's (but Albright's defending was lacking for long stretches, which isn't good for a fullback) -- but I was impressed with how Ching linked up on several give-and-goes, particularly with Donovan, showing that Ching can be more than just a target man and is generous with the ball. I get the feeling that Arena likes Twellman more than Ching (or Arena is more comfortable with him). I've always thought Twellman is an excellent finisher, but he is inconsistent (particularly when outside the MLS) and is not as good with the other elements of the game. Ching is almost an identical striker, but is better in other areas, particularly when Donovan, his old partner from San Jose, is on the field.
Nevertheless, either Twellman or Ching goes to the World Cup. They're too similar to each other (and to the starter, McBride) to both go. If Arena was leaning towards Twellman, then the Jamaica game probably didn't change his mind. But Arena will be paying attention to the MLS games through the beginning of May. Ching still has a chance to show his quality and be chosen to represent his nation at the Cup.
Go Ching!
Brian Ching had a competent game. He got up for some headers -- although his headers weren't as dangerous as Chris Albright's (but Albright's defending was lacking for long stretches, which isn't good for a fullback) -- but I was impressed with how Ching linked up on several give-and-goes, particularly with Donovan, showing that Ching can be more than just a target man and is generous with the ball. I get the feeling that Arena likes Twellman more than Ching (or Arena is more comfortable with him). I've always thought Twellman is an excellent finisher, but he is inconsistent (particularly when outside the MLS) and is not as good with the other elements of the game. Ching is almost an identical striker, but is better in other areas, particularly when Donovan, his old partner from San Jose, is on the field.
Nevertheless, either Twellman or Ching goes to the World Cup. They're too similar to each other (and to the starter, McBride) to both go. If Arena was leaning towards Twellman, then the Jamaica game probably didn't change his mind. But Arena will be paying attention to the MLS games through the beginning of May. Ching still has a chance to show his quality and be chosen to represent his nation at the Cup.
Go Ching!
Monday, April 10, 2006
The Robertson Atmosphere
Results aside, the Wizards game last weekend was a great experience. My family was among more than 20,300 of our closest friends -- and the crowd was into the game. There was a lot of noise, and the team seemed to feed off it.
Josh Wolff (who was very dangerous in the opening minutes, then was better neutralized from then on) had this to say, according to the Chronicle: "The Houston fans were rocking. They were giving us a hard time. It makes the game fun and gives it a good element. They don't cross the line, but are very supportive of their guys."
The supporters group, the Texian Army, on the north goal line was very into the match. Spirited cheers and good use of orange.
Robertson Stadium is a good size for these matches. I like the contrasts of the WPA-esque concrete edifaces, with the contemporary seating. And that pitch is like a lush, green carpet. I hope we can keep the gridlines off during gamedays in the fall.
We'll obviously want to have a soccer-specific stadium in the future, but I hope they borrow some of the excellent elements from Robertson Stadium. They can drop the overpriced food though...
I sat in Section 224 this time, which was cheap and had great site lines. I've scoped out other sections that I want to try the next time.
My wife spoke to two ladies wearing San Jose gear (same as my son, which started the conversation). They flew in from San Jose to root for the team for old times' sake. They said they really missed the guys. My wife told them that we're sorry they lost the team, but that we're really glad to have the team here. The ladies replied that we shouldn't be sorry. This game had a larger crowd than any of the San Jose games, they said, so we're giving the guys a very good home.
We hope Dynamo continue to feel welcome here.
Josh Wolff (who was very dangerous in the opening minutes, then was better neutralized from then on) had this to say, according to the Chronicle: "The Houston fans were rocking. They were giving us a hard time. It makes the game fun and gives it a good element. They don't cross the line, but are very supportive of their guys."
The supporters group, the Texian Army, on the north goal line was very into the match. Spirited cheers and good use of orange.
Robertson Stadium is a good size for these matches. I like the contrasts of the WPA-esque concrete edifaces, with the contemporary seating. And that pitch is like a lush, green carpet. I hope we can keep the gridlines off during gamedays in the fall.
We'll obviously want to have a soccer-specific stadium in the future, but I hope they borrow some of the excellent elements from Robertson Stadium. They can drop the overpriced food though...
I sat in Section 224 this time, which was cheap and had great site lines. I've scoped out other sections that I want to try the next time.
My wife spoke to two ladies wearing San Jose gear (same as my son, which started the conversation). They flew in from San Jose to root for the team for old times' sake. They said they really missed the guys. My wife told them that we're sorry they lost the team, but that we're really glad to have the team here. The ladies replied that we shouldn't be sorry. This game had a larger crowd than any of the San Jose games, they said, so we're giving the guys a very good home.
We hope Dynamo continue to feel welcome here.
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Those Durn Wizards
The last MLS game I went to see was in Dallas. The Wizards were visiting that day and my family and I were rooting for the hometeam. The Wizards spoiled the party that day and stole a win by one goal.
Tonight, the same durn thing happened. The Wizards win off a rocket of a volley in the 90th minute by Burciaga, who is now on my poo-poo list. Wizards win 2-1.
Still, I cannot cast blame upon the Dynamo. We were the better team: dynamic, attacking, and threatening.
The game didn't start that way, with a Wolff drive barely pushed out by Onstad in the opening minutes, then a header by Eddie Johnson that was saved by the woodwork. After that, it was the Dynamos game. Unfortunately, while the Dynamo excelled in the back third and middle third, they couldn't finish in the attacking third. Not until Ching finally connected on a header in the 64th minute. Unfortunately, for the second week in a row, we couldn't protect the initial lead for more than 2 minutes, and Sasha was able to equalize with his unmarked header off a corner kick against the run of play.
Earlier about the 55th minute, Burciaga perfomed a cynical trip just outside the KC penalty box and receives a yellow. Later, he takes Mullan down from behind, near the goal line just outside the box. That should have been a second yellow. Later, with the score tied at 1-1 and about 15 minutes to play, Kerry Zavagnin (a good mid) adds a little melodrama after receiving an elbow from De Rosario, thus manipulating the Ref into giving De Ro a straight red. Given his reaction to the previous fouls, the ref should have given De Ro a yellow...but a red would have been entirely justified had the ref's previous calls been consistently punished.
A man down, Dynamo still played aggressively and didn't resort to "bunkering in." In the 90th minute, just after the Fourth Official revealed that 3 minutes of stoppage time would be added, Burciaga -- who should not have been on the field after his previous fouls -- made the strike that would be a dagger to the heart of the home side. It was admittedly a beautiful shot, but I wasn't sorry when Burciaga's poor sportsmanship afterwards elicited a second yellow card. No more histrionics from you, dude; now get off the field and go find a stage for your act and let the soccer players play.
(I must admit, I think the yellow card issued to Burciaga for his post-goal celebration was almost as ridiculous -- almost! -- as the straight red issued to De Ro. I think it was the ref's attempt to admit mea culpa on not issuing Burci a second yellow earlier.)
A few minutes before De Ro's ridiculous red card, it looked like Wade Barrett had put Dynamo up 2-1. Unfortunately, it was called back by a mysterious offside call. After the game, I raced home full of indignation to watch the tape of the game. (Another decent game calling by Charlie Pallilo and John Doyle; the latter actually making some funny self-deprecating remarks about his tendency to speak about San Jose on the field.) I watched the recording and -- drats! --Barrett was offside. The AR got that one right. At least I can still grumble about the DeRo Red Card.
In two games we've seen 6 goals by the Dynamo (5 by Ching), 4 goals by the visitors (2 per game? need to cut that down), and 3 red cards. Next game is on the road at DC. Here's hoping that the PowerOrange win their first road game (sans DeRo though it will be) and get back on track. They're bound to, the way they're playing...as long as they don't continue to allow those infrequent (but costly) lapses in the defensive third.
Tonight, the same durn thing happened. The Wizards win off a rocket of a volley in the 90th minute by Burciaga, who is now on my poo-poo list. Wizards win 2-1.
Still, I cannot cast blame upon the Dynamo. We were the better team: dynamic, attacking, and threatening.
The game didn't start that way, with a Wolff drive barely pushed out by Onstad in the opening minutes, then a header by Eddie Johnson that was saved by the woodwork. After that, it was the Dynamos game. Unfortunately, while the Dynamo excelled in the back third and middle third, they couldn't finish in the attacking third. Not until Ching finally connected on a header in the 64th minute. Unfortunately, for the second week in a row, we couldn't protect the initial lead for more than 2 minutes, and Sasha was able to equalize with his unmarked header off a corner kick against the run of play.
Earlier about the 55th minute, Burciaga perfomed a cynical trip just outside the KC penalty box and receives a yellow. Later, he takes Mullan down from behind, near the goal line just outside the box. That should have been a second yellow. Later, with the score tied at 1-1 and about 15 minutes to play, Kerry Zavagnin (a good mid) adds a little melodrama after receiving an elbow from De Rosario, thus manipulating the Ref into giving De Ro a straight red. Given his reaction to the previous fouls, the ref should have given De Ro a yellow...but a red would have been entirely justified had the ref's previous calls been consistently punished.
A man down, Dynamo still played aggressively and didn't resort to "bunkering in." In the 90th minute, just after the Fourth Official revealed that 3 minutes of stoppage time would be added, Burciaga -- who should not have been on the field after his previous fouls -- made the strike that would be a dagger to the heart of the home side. It was admittedly a beautiful shot, but I wasn't sorry when Burciaga's poor sportsmanship afterwards elicited a second yellow card. No more histrionics from you, dude; now get off the field and go find a stage for your act and let the soccer players play.
(I must admit, I think the yellow card issued to Burciaga for his post-goal celebration was almost as ridiculous -- almost! -- as the straight red issued to De Ro. I think it was the ref's attempt to admit mea culpa on not issuing Burci a second yellow earlier.)
A few minutes before De Ro's ridiculous red card, it looked like Wade Barrett had put Dynamo up 2-1. Unfortunately, it was called back by a mysterious offside call. After the game, I raced home full of indignation to watch the tape of the game. (Another decent game calling by Charlie Pallilo and John Doyle; the latter actually making some funny self-deprecating remarks about his tendency to speak about San Jose on the field.) I watched the recording and -- drats! --Barrett was offside. The AR got that one right. At least I can still grumble about the DeRo Red Card.
In two games we've seen 6 goals by the Dynamo (5 by Ching), 4 goals by the visitors (2 per game? need to cut that down), and 3 red cards. Next game is on the road at DC. Here's hoping that the PowerOrange win their first road game (sans DeRo though it will be) and get back on track. They're bound to, the way they're playing...as long as they don't continue to allow those infrequent (but costly) lapses in the defensive third.
Game Day #2 => The Wandering Wizards
Today I'm taking my wife and three kids to Robertson Stadium. One couldn't ask for better weather to watch a match. I wonder if we can convince the team members from Canada that this is how our summers feel too...
KC is a well-coached team that will be a bigger challenge than the Rapids were. KC has some strong defenders (and defensive mids) with Nick Garcia, Jose Burciaga Jr., and Kerry Zavagnin (a National Team hopeful, though he hasn't helped his case recently). Sasha Victorine is another defensive-minded fielder who has taken a more offensive role in the midfield. The most dangerous players up front will be Davy Arnaud (a South Texas boy) and Eddie Johnson, formerly of FC Dallas. The Wizards look to be missing Jimmy Conrad in the back and Josh Wolff up front, both due to injury. Luckily, Conrad's typing hands are uninjured as he has some of the funniest essays you'll find on the Net. He's wittier than some who make their living through wordsmithing.
I'm hoping the reffing is a bit more consistent this time around. Last week we had Alex Prus, who apparently doesn't mind tackles from behind that wipe out the player, as long as the ball is touched somewhere along the way. At least he was making that non-call for both sides, but he'd also make inexplicable soft calls at other times, such as the call against Serioux that led to Kirovski's goal off a free kick. Let's see what Erich Simmons can do from the center today.
Side note: Is Ricardo Clark's confidence shaken up? He's an excellent player, but last week he had several opportunities -- some even self-generated -- but didn't seem to want to pull the trigger. Choocandoit, Ricardo! Pull that trigger and make Houston love you!
I'm predicting quite a few goals tonight. It'll be up DeRo, Big Chingy, and Moreno to make sure our tallies outnumber theirs. Onstad will be busy, so no worries about him being caught unawares, and I'd go with him over the Wizards Oshoniyi under pressure.
Ya know, the last MLS match I watched live involved KC. The Wizards were visiting Dallas and left victorious 1-0. Davy Arnaud didn't score that goal, but I think he assisted; and he seemed the most dangerous threat throughout the match. He's a very good player, and is fun to watch, but here's hoping he and his don't spoil my family's trip to the park again today.
KC is a well-coached team that will be a bigger challenge than the Rapids were. KC has some strong defenders (and defensive mids) with Nick Garcia, Jose Burciaga Jr., and Kerry Zavagnin (a National Team hopeful, though he hasn't helped his case recently). Sasha Victorine is another defensive-minded fielder who has taken a more offensive role in the midfield. The most dangerous players up front will be Davy Arnaud (a South Texas boy) and Eddie Johnson, formerly of FC Dallas. The Wizards look to be missing Jimmy Conrad in the back and Josh Wolff up front, both due to injury. Luckily, Conrad's typing hands are uninjured as he has some of the funniest essays you'll find on the Net. He's wittier than some who make their living through wordsmithing.
I'm hoping the reffing is a bit more consistent this time around. Last week we had Alex Prus, who apparently doesn't mind tackles from behind that wipe out the player, as long as the ball is touched somewhere along the way. At least he was making that non-call for both sides, but he'd also make inexplicable soft calls at other times, such as the call against Serioux that led to Kirovski's goal off a free kick. Let's see what Erich Simmons can do from the center today.
Side note: Is Ricardo Clark's confidence shaken up? He's an excellent player, but last week he had several opportunities -- some even self-generated -- but didn't seem to want to pull the trigger. Choocandoit, Ricardo! Pull that trigger and make Houston love you!
I'm predicting quite a few goals tonight. It'll be up DeRo, Big Chingy, and Moreno to make sure our tallies outnumber theirs. Onstad will be busy, so no worries about him being caught unawares, and I'd go with him over the Wizards Oshoniyi under pressure.
Ya know, the last MLS match I watched live involved KC. The Wizards were visiting Dallas and left victorious 1-0. Davy Arnaud didn't score that goal, but I think he assisted; and he seemed the most dangerous threat throughout the match. He's a very good player, and is fun to watch, but here's hoping he and his don't spoil my family's trip to the park again today.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Accolades for the Dynamo's Inaugural Match
Before the season even started, Dynamo Houston demonstrated their readiness to compete when they won the Carolina Challenge Cup, a three-game round robin preseason tournament.
Now that the season has started, some individual accomplishments and awards have already rolled in.
This week, Brian Ching was named MLS Player of the Week for Week 1 of the 2006 MLS regular season. Ching's four-goal performance last Sunday paved the way for his easy election for this honor. He had a hat trick in the first half and a fourth score midway through the second half. Ching's four-goal game marks the ninth time in MLS history that a player has scored at least four goals in one game. Clint Mathis holds the record for most goals by one player in an MLS game with five -- a mark he set while playing for the MetroStars against Dallas in 2000.
Alejandro Moreno won the Sierra Mist Goal of the Week for his goal in the 92nd minute off a bicycle kick. The acrobatic kick came after Dwayne De Rosario's cross from the left flank was knocked straight up into the air by a Colorado defender. Moreno's bicycle kick found the upper right corner of the net...on the top shelf, right where grandma keeps the cookies.
Finally, Dwayne De Rosario didn't receive an award, but he did receive recognition for his four assists (his pass to Moreno not counting as one of them), a feat that tied the MLS single-game record for assists. Four assists by an individual is even rarer than four goals by an individual, as only twice before had an individual tallied four assists in a game. The last time was by Chris Henderson in 1999...a whole millennium ago.
Now that the season has started, some individual accomplishments and awards have already rolled in.
This week, Brian Ching was named MLS Player of the Week for Week 1 of the 2006 MLS regular season. Ching's four-goal performance last Sunday paved the way for his easy election for this honor. He had a hat trick in the first half and a fourth score midway through the second half. Ching's four-goal game marks the ninth time in MLS history that a player has scored at least four goals in one game. Clint Mathis holds the record for most goals by one player in an MLS game with five -- a mark he set while playing for the MetroStars against Dallas in 2000.
Alejandro Moreno won the Sierra Mist Goal of the Week for his goal in the 92nd minute off a bicycle kick. The acrobatic kick came after Dwayne De Rosario's cross from the left flank was knocked straight up into the air by a Colorado defender. Moreno's bicycle kick found the upper right corner of the net...on the top shelf, right where grandma keeps the cookies.
Finally, Dwayne De Rosario didn't receive an award, but he did receive recognition for his four assists (his pass to Moreno not counting as one of them), a feat that tied the MLS single-game record for assists. Four assists by an individual is even rarer than four goals by an individual, as only twice before had an individual tallied four assists in a game. The last time was by Chris Henderson in 1999...a whole millennium ago.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Of Hat Tricks and Bicycles
What an awesome way to begin a franchise. Dynamo over the Rapids, 5-2.
With more than 25,000 fans in attendance, Dynamo put on a fantastic show. Winning is nice; winning with exciting ball is even better. The crowds will surely dwindle a little once the novelty of the enterprise wears off, but I for one am hoping that the quality of play will keep the numbers up at a respectable level.
My son, who is 12 now, was a big fan of San Jose Earthquakes. They were his favorite professional soccer team, in the MLS or anywhere else in the world. He was drawn to them by his admiration of Landon Donovan. When Donovan left for L.A. ("ptooey"), my son's allegiance remained with the Earthquakes, as he had them dominate the soccer world on his GameCube. I feel for the soccer fans in San Jose and hope Dynamo is a success here as much for San Jose as for Houston.
I hope Sunday is a harbinger of good things to come.
There was obviously Ching's prolific scoring. A hat trick by halftime, and four by the end of the game. Not to be outdone, Alejandro Moreno scored with an impressive bicycle kick in stoppage time off a deflected cross from De Rosario. How's THAT for crowd pleasin' entertainment? And we can't forget De Rosario and his four assists -- a feat that's rarer than scoring four goals in a game, if you can believe it.
We can't lose sight of the other tactical battles that help put this game in the books.
Pat Onstad had to make two big saves in the second half to keep the ball out of the net, in addition to his run-of-the-mill shot blockers and game savers.
Wade Barrett (a defender playing midfielder Sunday) and Brian Mullan dominated the flanks and got excellent crosses into the middle. You can't get better service at a 4-star restaurant.
Kevin Goldthwaite and Adrian Serioux did very well in the back, staying organized and restarting the attack. Serioux did have the foul that led to the Kirovski strike, and was tentative at another point so as to force Onstad to make an aggressive save, but was strong on the ball for the much of the game.
Kelly Gray also joined in on the attack from the defense. This team-wide attacking mentality should be the style that American soccer adopts nationwide and claims as its own.
Charlie Pallilo and John Doyle, the local announcers on FSN, did a remarkably good job. I've watched mostly national broadcasts of games, where there is a veneer of impartiality by the game callers; it was nice to view a game where the announcers were pulling for the home team. I'ver heard Pallilo on the radio many times. I don't know if he has any background in soccer (I would guess not), but he did admirably calling the game, naming the players in the course of play, and even using the proper vernacular. He wasn't entirely crisp with some of the nuances, but was more than up to the task. Doyle was a player, coach, and announcer for San Jose, and did a great job with the color commentary...and with practice he'll remember to refer to the team as "Houston" and not "San Jose"! Overall, I was impressed -- and they didn't prattle endlessly like the ABC/ESPN soccer crew tends to do. I like my announcers to be subtle.
Finally, I must note that Colorado's two goals were both well done. Beckerman's rocket from 35 yards out is definite goal of the week material. Does he ever score goals? If he scored more like that one, he'd be worth a lot more on my fantasy team. Kirovski's goal off a set play was not quite as stunning, but was well placed with just the right amount of deception.
Colorado is trying to work out some issues at the outset of this season, and the early injuries that required two first-half substitutes, plus the late Red Card to Mastroeni, only exacerbated their plight Sunday. I think next week's Kansas City match will be a more challenging task.
Line up
GK = Pat Onstad
D = Kelly Gray, Ryan Cochrane, Adrian Serioux, Kevin Goldthwaite
M = Wade Barrett, Ricardo Clark, Dwayne De Rosario, Brian Mullan
F = Brian Ching, Alejandro Moreno
No subs used. Bench included: Ronald Cerritos, Brad Davis, Patrick Ianni, Eddie Robinson, Marcus Storey, Craig Waibel, Zach Wells
With more than 25,000 fans in attendance, Dynamo put on a fantastic show. Winning is nice; winning with exciting ball is even better. The crowds will surely dwindle a little once the novelty of the enterprise wears off, but I for one am hoping that the quality of play will keep the numbers up at a respectable level.
My son, who is 12 now, was a big fan of San Jose Earthquakes. They were his favorite professional soccer team, in the MLS or anywhere else in the world. He was drawn to them by his admiration of Landon Donovan. When Donovan left for L.A. ("ptooey"), my son's allegiance remained with the Earthquakes, as he had them dominate the soccer world on his GameCube. I feel for the soccer fans in San Jose and hope Dynamo is a success here as much for San Jose as for Houston.
I hope Sunday is a harbinger of good things to come.
There was obviously Ching's prolific scoring. A hat trick by halftime, and four by the end of the game. Not to be outdone, Alejandro Moreno scored with an impressive bicycle kick in stoppage time off a deflected cross from De Rosario. How's THAT for crowd pleasin' entertainment? And we can't forget De Rosario and his four assists -- a feat that's rarer than scoring four goals in a game, if you can believe it.
We can't lose sight of the other tactical battles that help put this game in the books.
Pat Onstad had to make two big saves in the second half to keep the ball out of the net, in addition to his run-of-the-mill shot blockers and game savers.
Wade Barrett (a defender playing midfielder Sunday) and Brian Mullan dominated the flanks and got excellent crosses into the middle. You can't get better service at a 4-star restaurant.
Kevin Goldthwaite and Adrian Serioux did very well in the back, staying organized and restarting the attack. Serioux did have the foul that led to the Kirovski strike, and was tentative at another point so as to force Onstad to make an aggressive save, but was strong on the ball for the much of the game.
Kelly Gray also joined in on the attack from the defense. This team-wide attacking mentality should be the style that American soccer adopts nationwide and claims as its own.
Charlie Pallilo and John Doyle, the local announcers on FSN, did a remarkably good job. I've watched mostly national broadcasts of games, where there is a veneer of impartiality by the game callers; it was nice to view a game where the announcers were pulling for the home team. I'ver heard Pallilo on the radio many times. I don't know if he has any background in soccer (I would guess not), but he did admirably calling the game, naming the players in the course of play, and even using the proper vernacular. He wasn't entirely crisp with some of the nuances, but was more than up to the task. Doyle was a player, coach, and announcer for San Jose, and did a great job with the color commentary...and with practice he'll remember to refer to the team as "Houston" and not "San Jose"! Overall, I was impressed -- and they didn't prattle endlessly like the ABC/ESPN soccer crew tends to do. I like my announcers to be subtle.
Finally, I must note that Colorado's two goals were both well done. Beckerman's rocket from 35 yards out is definite goal of the week material. Does he ever score goals? If he scored more like that one, he'd be worth a lot more on my fantasy team. Kirovski's goal off a set play was not quite as stunning, but was well placed with just the right amount of deception.
Colorado is trying to work out some issues at the outset of this season, and the early injuries that required two first-half substitutes, plus the late Red Card to Mastroeni, only exacerbated their plight Sunday. I think next week's Kansas City match will be a more challenging task.
Line up
GK = Pat Onstad
D = Kelly Gray, Ryan Cochrane, Adrian Serioux, Kevin Goldthwaite
M = Wade Barrett, Ricardo Clark, Dwayne De Rosario, Brian Mullan
F = Brian Ching, Alejandro Moreno
No subs used. Bench included: Ronald Cerritos, Brad Davis, Patrick Ianni, Eddie Robinson, Marcus Storey, Craig Waibel, Zach Wells
Sunday, April 02, 2006
First Game day
Tonight, Dynamo Houston faces the Colorado Rapids at 6:30 p.m. Today, professional soccer makes a historic return to Houston. I wish good things for the team; but I hope that it becomes a catalyst that turns Houston -- all of Houston, not just an ethnic group or youth group -- into a soccer city. Soccer is a sport that can coexist with traditional American fare, yet it can be so much more due to its global appeal and the "Olympic-styled" grandeur of the World Cup.
So far, I'm impressed with the media coverage in Houston. The Houston Chronicle has had several good articles that go well beyond what they've done for any sport outside the "big three" (football, baseball, and basketball). Today sees a special section of the paper devoted to the Dynamo and the MLS.
Glenn Davis, local soccer commentator and reporter (and a member of the Houston Dynamos so long ago), has done a yeoman's job of getting the word out. He is to host a weekly "Dynamo Power Hour" on the radio, in addition to his regular "Soccer Hour" show.
The Dynamo have received some time on the local sports talk shows (and some not so favorable time on some of the non-sports talk shows where current events and gripes about the oddities of life hold sway). Oliver Luck has made the rounds as well.
Today, Cannon, Mastroeni, Beckerman, and Mathis come to Houston. Perhaps now we can put behind the 1836 imbroglio and begin focusing on soccer.
We know Pat Onstad is a force between the sticks. How will the defense measure up given the injuries and personnel losses? Will Serioux start in the back or as defensive midfielder? Midfield should be strong once everyone (Clark, Davis, and Waibel) has recovered. How will De Rosario fare as a playmaker rather than as a forward? Will Ching be the target forward he can be (but struggles to be for the national team)?
Coach Kinnear had the measurements of Robertson Stadium echo those of Spartan Stadium, where the team played last year as the SJ Earthquakes. They were undefeated at home last year, and are hoping to recreate the magic by recreating the narrow field confines.
Today, questions will be answered about the team, the field, and the fans' reaction. San Jose gave up a lot for this, as have the Dynamo players. Lets hope the results with this team and with this town make their sacrifices worthwhile.
So far, I'm impressed with the media coverage in Houston. The Houston Chronicle has had several good articles that go well beyond what they've done for any sport outside the "big three" (football, baseball, and basketball). Today sees a special section of the paper devoted to the Dynamo and the MLS.
Glenn Davis, local soccer commentator and reporter (and a member of the Houston Dynamos so long ago), has done a yeoman's job of getting the word out. He is to host a weekly "Dynamo Power Hour" on the radio, in addition to his regular "Soccer Hour" show.
The Dynamo have received some time on the local sports talk shows (and some not so favorable time on some of the non-sports talk shows where current events and gripes about the oddities of life hold sway). Oliver Luck has made the rounds as well.
Today, Cannon, Mastroeni, Beckerman, and Mathis come to Houston. Perhaps now we can put behind the 1836 imbroglio and begin focusing on soccer.
We know Pat Onstad is a force between the sticks. How will the defense measure up given the injuries and personnel losses? Will Serioux start in the back or as defensive midfielder? Midfield should be strong once everyone (Clark, Davis, and Waibel) has recovered. How will De Rosario fare as a playmaker rather than as a forward? Will Ching be the target forward he can be (but struggles to be for the national team)?
Coach Kinnear had the measurements of Robertson Stadium echo those of Spartan Stadium, where the team played last year as the SJ Earthquakes. They were undefeated at home last year, and are hoping to recreate the magic by recreating the narrow field confines.
Today, questions will be answered about the team, the field, and the fans' reaction. San Jose gave up a lot for this, as have the Dynamo players. Lets hope the results with this team and with this town make their sacrifices worthwhile.
DYNAMO Houston - Team Overview
An introduction to the newest MLS Team, courtesy of MLS.net...
Head Coach: Dominic Kinnear
Key departures: Danny Califf (to Europe), Mark Chung (retirement), Troy Dayak (retirement), Danny O'Rourke (to Red Bulls New York), Spartan Stadium (where the team went undefeated in 2005, adjusting better than any of its opponents to the fields narrow confines)
Key additions: Adrian Serioux (from Red Bulls New York), Zach Wells, Patrick Ianni
KEY PERSONNEL
Goalkeeper
Pat Onstad: The 2005 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year provided a solid foundation for the league's best defense a year ago. One of the Canadian contingent.
Defenders
Kelly Gray: Acquired from the Chicago Fire in midseason last year, he gets forward well in attack on the right flank. He is fast, and strong and aggressive when the team needs to recover the ball.
Craig Waibel: Slowed by injury for almost the entire 2005 season, Waibel has returned to full fitness and will start in central defense. Very good in the air and had a good preseason.
Kevin Goldthwaite: Another player who had an impressive preseason, and he will start in central defense as Eddie Robinson is injured. He is fast and has good control of the ball.
Wade Barrett: One of the team leaders, a solid defender with six years in MLS. He is very good organizing counterattacks and has good offensive skill getting forward on the left flank.
Midfielders
Ricardo Clark: He suffered an ankle injury during the offseason, but has worked hard to recover and is ready to assume his role in the midfield where he contains rivals and starts offensive plays.
Adrian Serioux: The Canadian midfielder was acquired just before the start of the season when Dynamo sent Danny O'Rourke to the New York Red Bulls. He is the classic defensive midfielder, strong and aggressive. His experience in England clubs and at the national team level will be a solid asset to the club. Serioux fits in well in Kinnear's side where teamwork is the key.
Dwayne De Rosario: A member of the 2005 MLS Best XI after his move to a playmaking midfield role from a true striker. As the designated playmaker, he will initiate the Dynamo attacks. He can score as well as set up his teammates. The third Canadian international on the team.
Brad Davis: After an injury kept him out the last half of last season, a sports hernia kept him away from part of the preseason. However, Davis has recovered and again ready to put his stamp on the left side of the Dynamo midfield with his terrific service on crosses and free kicks.
Forwards
Brian Ching: One of the top strikers in all of MLS. The Hawaiian spent part of the preseason with the national team. He spent much of 2005 injured, but still scored seven goals in 16 league games.
Alejandro Moreno: The Venezuelan striker took over a starting job into the season and ended the year with eight goals. He combines very well with his teammates and is good in the air.
OUTLOOK
Dynamo keep most of the squad that dominated the league last season and if they are as strong at home as they were in San Jose in 2005, Dynamo will certainly be in the playoffs again.
ROSTER
Uniform # /Name /Years of MLS Experience
Goalkeepers
18 / Pat Onstad / 3
1 / Zach Wells / 2
Defenders
4 / Chris Aloisi / 2
24 / Wade Barrett / 6
5 / Ryan Cochrane / 2
3 / Kevin Goldthwaite / 1
6 / Kelly Gray (mid too) / 4
19 / Patrick Ianni D / 0
21 / Aaron Lanes M / 0
51 / Adrian Serioux / 0
Midfielders
17 / Mike Chabala / 0
13 / Ricardo Clark / 3
11 / Brad Davis / 4
14 / Dwayne De Rosario / 5
2 / Eddie Robinson (Def too) / 5
26 / Marcus Storey (Fwd too) / 1
16 / Craig Waibel / 6
7 / Chris Wondolowski / 1
Forwards
20 / Ronald Cerritos / 9
25 / Brian Ching / 4
15 / Alejandro Moreno / 4
9 / Brian Mullan / 5
12 / Julian Nash / 1
Head Coach: Dominic Kinnear
Key departures: Danny Califf (to Europe), Mark Chung (retirement), Troy Dayak (retirement), Danny O'Rourke (to Red Bulls New York), Spartan Stadium (where the team went undefeated in 2005, adjusting better than any of its opponents to the fields narrow confines)
Key additions: Adrian Serioux (from Red Bulls New York), Zach Wells, Patrick Ianni
KEY PERSONNEL
Goalkeeper
Pat Onstad: The 2005 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year provided a solid foundation for the league's best defense a year ago. One of the Canadian contingent.
Defenders
Kelly Gray: Acquired from the Chicago Fire in midseason last year, he gets forward well in attack on the right flank. He is fast, and strong and aggressive when the team needs to recover the ball.
Craig Waibel: Slowed by injury for almost the entire 2005 season, Waibel has returned to full fitness and will start in central defense. Very good in the air and had a good preseason.
Kevin Goldthwaite: Another player who had an impressive preseason, and he will start in central defense as Eddie Robinson is injured. He is fast and has good control of the ball.
Wade Barrett: One of the team leaders, a solid defender with six years in MLS. He is very good organizing counterattacks and has good offensive skill getting forward on the left flank.
Midfielders
Ricardo Clark: He suffered an ankle injury during the offseason, but has worked hard to recover and is ready to assume his role in the midfield where he contains rivals and starts offensive plays.
Adrian Serioux: The Canadian midfielder was acquired just before the start of the season when Dynamo sent Danny O'Rourke to the New York Red Bulls. He is the classic defensive midfielder, strong and aggressive. His experience in England clubs and at the national team level will be a solid asset to the club. Serioux fits in well in Kinnear's side where teamwork is the key.
Dwayne De Rosario: A member of the 2005 MLS Best XI after his move to a playmaking midfield role from a true striker. As the designated playmaker, he will initiate the Dynamo attacks. He can score as well as set up his teammates. The third Canadian international on the team.
Brad Davis: After an injury kept him out the last half of last season, a sports hernia kept him away from part of the preseason. However, Davis has recovered and again ready to put his stamp on the left side of the Dynamo midfield with his terrific service on crosses and free kicks.
Forwards
Brian Ching: One of the top strikers in all of MLS. The Hawaiian spent part of the preseason with the national team. He spent much of 2005 injured, but still scored seven goals in 16 league games.
Alejandro Moreno: The Venezuelan striker took over a starting job into the season and ended the year with eight goals. He combines very well with his teammates and is good in the air.
OUTLOOK
Dynamo keep most of the squad that dominated the league last season and if they are as strong at home as they were in San Jose in 2005, Dynamo will certainly be in the playoffs again.
ROSTER
Uniform # /Name /Years of MLS Experience
Goalkeepers
18 / Pat Onstad / 3
1 / Zach Wells / 2
Defenders
4 / Chris Aloisi / 2
24 / Wade Barrett / 6
5 / Ryan Cochrane / 2
3 / Kevin Goldthwaite / 1
6 / Kelly Gray (mid too) / 4
19 / Patrick Ianni D / 0
21 / Aaron Lanes M / 0
51 / Adrian Serioux / 0
Midfielders
17 / Mike Chabala / 0
13 / Ricardo Clark / 3
11 / Brad Davis / 4
14 / Dwayne De Rosario / 5
2 / Eddie Robinson (Def too) / 5
26 / Marcus Storey (Fwd too) / 1
16 / Craig Waibel / 6
7 / Chris Wondolowski / 1
Forwards
20 / Ronald Cerritos / 9
25 / Brian Ching / 4
15 / Alejandro Moreno / 4
9 / Brian Mullan / 5
12 / Julian Nash / 1
Saturday, April 01, 2006
It begins
Tomorrow, Houston 1836 -- er DYNAMO HOUSTON -- starts its first campaign. This season will be a test of more than just the team; it'll test the ability of professional soccer to thrive in Houston.
The MLS has come a long way. It's still scoffed by many foreigners and by domestic sports pundits, but it has been a major catalyst in reshaping the sport in the US. It is partially responsible for the depth in overall talent in the US, and is helping to nurture the future of American soccer. The 2006 World Cup may not be our moment; but the MLS contributed to the overall sense that a World Cup is feasible in the not too distant future. Even this World Cup -- with the “Group of Death” moniker bestowed upon Group E which houses Italy, the Czech Republic, Ghana, and the US -- sees the US ranked as high as fifth in the (mythical) world rankings. The US will be hard pressed to progress out of the group stage; but it is also viewed as highly capable of doing so.
But, how will Dynamo Houston fare as the newest team in this maturing league? Many in the soccer-focused pressed view the major powers to be Houston, Los Angeles and New England. But be wary: Kansas City Wizards have amped up their offense with Eddie Johnson joining Josh Wolff; Chivas has abandoned last year's experiment and have overhauled their roster (including rumors of bringing in John O'Brien); FC Dallas can't be forgotten (despite its suspect defense) because of the prolific nature of Carlos Ruiz; the Chicago Fire and DC United have several unknowns that might pan out in their favor.
Regardless: Houston looks poised to fare well and get into the playoffs. How will they adjust to their new environment and the off-field distractions associated with their ownership and the relocation to hot, humid Houston? We'll start discovering the answers tomorrow.
I think it'll be a strong year myself.
By the way: I will choose to refer to the team as Dynamo Houston rather than Houston Dynamo. The former sounds more like a vibrant, cohesive name, while the latter seems to be standard, prosaic sports fare -- city name followed by contrived mascot name.
Many years ago, there was a professional team known as the Houston Dynamos -- an ancestor (albeit a distant, nearly unrelated one) to today's team. There are many other teams that have borne a similar nomenclature:
- Dinamo Bucharest
- Dynamo Dresden
- Dynamo Kiev
- Dinamo Minsk
- Dynamo Moscow
- Dinamo Tbilisi
- Dinamo Zagreb
- Dynamos FC (one in South Africa and one in Zimbabwe)
Yet, while there is precedent out there, Dynamo Houston is founded on different ideas than many of these namesakes; and it will see a future that only the team itself -- along with its fans -- can define. Hopefully that includes success on the pitch as well as in the furthering of the sport for tomorrow's American players.
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