Down 2-1 with three-quarters of the series gone by, Dynamo Houston were outplaying a physical and often gamesman Chivas USA...but had nothing to show for it. Into the 2nd half, another cheap shot -- this time in the penalty box against DeRo who was sighting up for a header -- resulted in a PK for Dynamo. I wonder if DeRo was feeling like he was in a slump based on his recent penalty result (saved in the first leg by Chivas' GK, Brad Guzan), because leftie Brad Davis took the kick and leveled the series.
But -- wow -- with the game at 1 minute and 40 seconds into the 2-minute stoppage time, Serioux passes the ball around the midfield to Davis, who goes wide to DeRo, who dribbles into the box, sends a beautiful, arcing cross to the far post where defender (defender!) Eddie Robinson heads the ball down hard. The ball takes a high bounce and (1:57 into the 2:00 stoppage) Ching ignores a body-slamming Regan and drills the ball into the net with his head.
Game, set, match. Dynamo caps off a terrific inaugural season in dramatic fashion. Now they get to host the Rapids next weekend for the Western Conference Championship. We'll be there.
I wonder, in retrospect, if Dynamo weren't better off going into the second leg down a goal. That position was the catalyst for Chivas to play against their own strengths, to ignore what got them to the playoffs in the first place, and shelve their attacking style of soccer for a negative, bunkered strategy. That isn't their style, and playing out of character took its toll. They had only one true challenge on our goal (and that was in the first minute of the game), had a frustrated player sent off in the second half, and seemed to be on borrowed time as Dynamo moved the ball at will and peppered Guzan. If Dynamo had been level or ahead in the differential, the roles may have been reversed and Chivas might have earned a trip to the Conference finals.
Excellent strategy, DeRo, missing that PK and forcing Chivas to play a losing game. You are strong with the Force.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Monday, October 23, 2006
Down 2-1 at Halftime
Dynamo went to the Home Depot Center, outshot Chivas 15-9 (with 5 on frame), were awarded a penalty kick with 5 minutes left in the game, and left town on the rotten end of 2-1. Chivas got both their goals off free kicks, and had only one other shot on goal besides those two free kicks.
With Guzan in goal, in is unbelievable that we couldn't score more on those 15 shots. It's even more unbelievable that Guzan beat DeRo on the PK too, which would have leveled the score.
All is not lost for the Dynamo, of course; but their work is cut out for them given their inability to translate their skill and their ball-possession into winning results. We need to make the most of our chances next weekend, and we need to remain solid on defense, particularly on deadball situations. We cannot tie the next game -- which will be, thankfully, at Robertson -- or our season is over. We must win by two to go to the Western Conference Champions and most likely face the Fakin' Cheatin' Divers.
On another note: I thought Charlie Pallilo did an admirable job calling the game on the radio, particularly for someone who knows sports but not soccer. He certainly understands soccer as a contest, and can read the flow of the game; but he does not understand some of the subtleties of the tactics and strategies, and he knows very little about the backstory and history of soccer that he can use to color his commentary. That's the first time I've listened to soccer on the radio (the only other broadcasts down here being in Spanish). It translated pretty well to the pictureless medium of radio...although I had to keep the TV on just to catch the big plays. Interesting that the radio runs about, oh, eight seconds faster than the TV.
With Guzan in goal, in is unbelievable that we couldn't score more on those 15 shots. It's even more unbelievable that Guzan beat DeRo on the PK too, which would have leveled the score.
All is not lost for the Dynamo, of course; but their work is cut out for them given their inability to translate their skill and their ball-possession into winning results. We need to make the most of our chances next weekend, and we need to remain solid on defense, particularly on deadball situations. We cannot tie the next game -- which will be, thankfully, at Robertson -- or our season is over. We must win by two to go to the Western Conference Champions and most likely face the Fakin' Cheatin' Divers.
On another note: I thought Charlie Pallilo did an admirable job calling the game on the radio, particularly for someone who knows sports but not soccer. He certainly understands soccer as a contest, and can read the flow of the game; but he does not understand some of the subtleties of the tactics and strategies, and he knows very little about the backstory and history of soccer that he can use to color his commentary. That's the first time I've listened to soccer on the radio (the only other broadcasts down here being in Spanish). It translated pretty well to the pictureless medium of radio...although I had to keep the TV on just to catch the big plays. Interesting that the radio runs about, oh, eight seconds faster than the TV.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Burgers & Celebs
So, I'm at Christian's Tailgate Bar & Grill today for lunch (formerly called Christian's Totem), eating a half pound of delicious mad cow, when a trio that includes Craig Roberts and Oliver Luck come in and pound down some burgers of their own.
Roberts used to be THE sports guy on the local network scene, calling it for the local NBC affiliate, KPRC TV-2. Don't know what he's doing know, other than reading the sports on the local rock station, 103.7, and hosting a show call "Sports Off Center" on Channel 55. (The show has a website with a dead link, but here's a small screen shot of the site by the designer.)
I wonder if there's a Dynamo connection between Roberts and Luck, or if Roberts is just hanging around a former Oilers QB, unaware that Luck has anything to do with a "forner's" sport like soccer.
Roberts used to be THE sports guy on the local network scene, calling it for the local NBC affiliate, KPRC TV-2. Don't know what he's doing know, other than reading the sports on the local rock station, 103.7, and hosting a show call "Sports Off Center" on Channel 55. (The show has a website with a dead link, but here's a small screen shot of the site by the designer.)
I wonder if there's a Dynamo connection between Roberts and Luck, or if Roberts is just hanging around a former Oilers QB, unaware that Luck has anything to do with a "forner's" sport like soccer.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
More dang draws
On 10/07, Dynamo go to Salt Lake and see Dalglish get his first goal of the season, but Dynamo couldn't hold onto the lead, and end up tying RSL (who doesn't make the post-season) 1-1.
On 10/14, Dynamo hosts Colorado and the goals are piled up...unfortunately in equal amounts for both teams. Dynamo starts off strong, with Waibel scoring off a corner in the 2nd minute. Colorado ties it up in the 21st minute. Dalglish scores his second goal in as many games just before halftime. Colorado ties it up 10 minutes into the second half. Waibel -- on fire -- scores a late goal that should be the winner, but we let in the equalizer with two minutes left in regulation. Yes, the win wouldn't have mattered. Yes, we were resting many starters. But also: Yes, we have established a pattern of getting by with ties, of not being able to defend our leads or to completely run away with the game. Dynamo have dominated too many games that ended in draws (and a couple, losses). 11 wins and 13 ties...plus the 8 losses. That's not a particularly impressive record for such a dynamic team.
Hopefully this pattern is not revisited during the MLS Cup tourney, which begins next weekend vs. Chivas.
On 10/14, Dynamo hosts Colorado and the goals are piled up...unfortunately in equal amounts for both teams. Dynamo starts off strong, with Waibel scoring off a corner in the 2nd minute. Colorado ties it up in the 21st minute. Dalglish scores his second goal in as many games just before halftime. Colorado ties it up 10 minutes into the second half. Waibel -- on fire -- scores a late goal that should be the winner, but we let in the equalizer with two minutes left in regulation. Yes, the win wouldn't have mattered. Yes, we were resting many starters. But also: Yes, we have established a pattern of getting by with ties, of not being able to defend our leads or to completely run away with the game. Dynamo have dominated too many games that ended in draws (and a couple, losses). 11 wins and 13 ties...plus the 8 losses. That's not a particularly impressive record for such a dynamic team.
Hopefully this pattern is not revisited during the MLS Cup tourney, which begins next weekend vs. Chivas.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Ching-mac-bling-bling!
So there we are, in Section 117, with great sightlines to the north end goal. A good crowd is in attendance. There's the fabled Freddy Adu. There's Jaime Moreno. There's four minutes to go and another strong performance by the Dynamo looks destined for another tie.
Then Davis drives the ball down the far left wing. He crosses it. Dalglish (I learn later) pops the ball up with his head. Ching shifts out towards the edge of the penalty box to collect the ball. Only problem: he's facing the wrong way to head it in, or to strike it cleanly unless -- "Hohree Cow!" -- he ascends into the air and with phenomenal power, drives the ball 17 yards into the far net. He puts the Dynamo up 1-0. He wins the game. He puts the Dynamo into the MLS Cup.
In his excitment, he kicks one of the advertisment plackards and the metal frame pops off, but no one cares. They've seen, first hand, one of the rarest, most audacious goals in the MLS.
Question: who to vote for for Goal of the Year? DeRo had a goal from the halfway line last month. That's rarely ever seen. Ching had a bicycle -- which is rare, but not unheard of -- but one of such power and distance, and with post-season implications, that it just might put it over the top. It'd be nice for DeRo to have the GotY for three years in a row...but it'd be nice for Ching to get his name in lights as well...
Oh the decisions we fans have to face!
Then Davis drives the ball down the far left wing. He crosses it. Dalglish (I learn later) pops the ball up with his head. Ching shifts out towards the edge of the penalty box to collect the ball. Only problem: he's facing the wrong way to head it in, or to strike it cleanly unless -- "Hohree Cow!" -- he ascends into the air and with phenomenal power, drives the ball 17 yards into the far net. He puts the Dynamo up 1-0. He wins the game. He puts the Dynamo into the MLS Cup.
In his excitment, he kicks one of the advertisment plackards and the metal frame pops off, but no one cares. They've seen, first hand, one of the rarest, most audacious goals in the MLS.
Question: who to vote for for Goal of the Year? DeRo had a goal from the halfway line last month. That's rarely ever seen. Ching had a bicycle -- which is rare, but not unheard of -- but one of such power and distance, and with post-season implications, that it just might put it over the top. It'd be nice for DeRo to have the GotY for three years in a row...but it'd be nice for Ching to get his name in lights as well...
Oh the decisions we fans have to face!
Sunday, September 24, 2006
The Broken Record
There were no records broken tonight, at least none of which I'm aware. But there is a scratched record that repeats the same refrain:
Despite controlling much of the match, Houston Dynamo gave up points.
This time it was against the lowest of the low: 6-win Crew.
DDR, the only consistent finisher for Dynamo, claimed yet another solid goal. This one was a 30-yarder in the 54th minute. Yet, once again, despite controlling the run of play in the entire first half and a majority of the second, and outshooting the opponent 18-10 (6-4 on goal), Dynamo gave up a late goal. The Crew's 80 minute tally locked both teams at a point each.
Chivas managed to win its game versus Colorado, so Dynamo is now in third place. Since Dynamo controlled its fate, this drop is completely justified give the team's inability to finish and obtain the results it needs.
Dynamo have won just twice in the last 12 games.
If Dynamo makes it to the playoffs, the slate will be clean. Let's hope they discontinue this underachieving trend though, or the MLS tourney will be a short one -- assuming we get to play at all.
DDR has the right attitude: "I don't care about the other games," he said. "We have to create our own destiny by winning. Once we do our work on our field then we don't have to worry about what anybody else is doing."
Despite controlling much of the match, Houston Dynamo gave up points.
This time it was against the lowest of the low: 6-win Crew.
DDR, the only consistent finisher for Dynamo, claimed yet another solid goal. This one was a 30-yarder in the 54th minute. Yet, once again, despite controlling the run of play in the entire first half and a majority of the second, and outshooting the opponent 18-10 (6-4 on goal), Dynamo gave up a late goal. The Crew's 80 minute tally locked both teams at a point each.
Chivas managed to win its game versus Colorado, so Dynamo is now in third place. Since Dynamo controlled its fate, this drop is completely justified give the team's inability to finish and obtain the results it needs.
Dynamo have won just twice in the last 12 games.
If Dynamo makes it to the playoffs, the slate will be clean. Let's hope they discontinue this underachieving trend though, or the MLS tourney will be a short one -- assuming we get to play at all.
DDR has the right attitude: "I don't care about the other games," he said. "We have to create our own destiny by winning. Once we do our work on our field then we don't have to worry about what anybody else is doing."
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Au revoir, Michelle
Tonight the only lady on the Fox Sports World Report is departing. After five years, Michelle Lissel is off to Toronto to join the Media and PR department of Toronto FC who will be making their MLS debut in 2007. It's great that the newest MLS team is pulling out the stops to make its inaugural season a success.
But hands off DeRosario, Cannucks! :-)
But hands off DeRosario, Cannucks! :-)
Monday, September 18, 2006
Dragging this season out
This past Sunday, Dynamo continued to flirt with both genius and mediocrity. With Chivas in the house, and over 15 thousand in the stands, Dynamo managed to hold their own throughout the first half. The newest Dynamo, Paul Dalglish, should have scored when he collected the rebound of a Brad Davis freekick 10 minutes into the game. As it was, his miss traveled across an open goal that should have been tapped in by any of a number of enterprising Dynamo. Later, in the same half, Dalglish had an amazing run into the box, where he then unleashed a superb goal that also traveled across an open goal and should have been tapped in by any of a number of enterprising Dynamo. On the other end of the field, Onstad cleaned up any messes left by his defenders.
The second half was even more frustrating. Chivas went down to 10 men in the 60th minute. Up a man, Dynamo couldn't do what so many Dynamo opponents have shown themselves able to do: win versus a 10-man team. Dynamo had the possession, but (in the story of the season) had trouble finishing. Unable to score left Dynamo unable to create much distance between themselves and the other Western Conference foes.
Dalglish had some exciting moments in place of Mullan on the right wing. He worked well independently, but seemed to suffer from miscommunication with others -- most glaringly Dwayne DeRosario in the middle. Others think this isn't so much due to the fact that Dalglish hasn't had time to gel with his mates, but because he may be more creative than the rest of the 'Mo. I agree that the team's attack is a bit prosaic and overly reliant on set plays, but the team still has one of the better attacks in the league. And I think Dalglish might do better as a forward paired with Ching.
It's Dynamo at the Columbus this Saturday. The Crew is a bottom dweller that should provide Dynamo with 3 points on a platter -- not that this means Dynamo will get the result even if their play suggests they should. End my frustration, boys. With only 4 games left (2 away; 2 at home), you've lost your opportunity to waffle. It's time to finish your games or else allow the less talented but opportunistic bottom-dwellers to justifiably leave you behind.
The second half was even more frustrating. Chivas went down to 10 men in the 60th minute. Up a man, Dynamo couldn't do what so many Dynamo opponents have shown themselves able to do: win versus a 10-man team. Dynamo had the possession, but (in the story of the season) had trouble finishing. Unable to score left Dynamo unable to create much distance between themselves and the other Western Conference foes.
Dalglish had some exciting moments in place of Mullan on the right wing. He worked well independently, but seemed to suffer from miscommunication with others -- most glaringly Dwayne DeRosario in the middle. Others think this isn't so much due to the fact that Dalglish hasn't had time to gel with his mates, but because he may be more creative than the rest of the 'Mo. I agree that the team's attack is a bit prosaic and overly reliant on set plays, but the team still has one of the better attacks in the league. And I think Dalglish might do better as a forward paired with Ching.
It's Dynamo at the Columbus this Saturday. The Crew is a bottom dweller that should provide Dynamo with 3 points on a platter -- not that this means Dynamo will get the result even if their play suggests they should. End my frustration, boys. With only 4 games left (2 away; 2 at home), you've lost your opportunity to waffle. It's time to finish your games or else allow the less talented but opportunistic bottom-dwellers to justifiably leave you behind.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
5 Games Left...
MLS teams have all played 27 games (except for RBNY, who has 26, while KC has actually played 28). The top three teams are now thus:
DC United 52 points (Eastern Conference)
FC Dallas 46 points (Western Conference)
Dynamo 39 points (Western Conference)
Meanwhile, Chicago, Chivas USA, and Colorado are close behind with 38 points.
This puts Dynamo 14 points away from the Supporters' Shield, which we could do should DC lose every remaining game (tying one at most) and we win every remaining game. I'm going to be a pessimist and bet against this.
We are only 8 points away from the top of the Western Conference. This is doable – with help – but is really meaningless in terms of achievement. Still, we topped FCD this season, so it would be nice for us to top them in the standings.
In the end, with the Supporters' Shield and Open Cup out of our reach, we should focus our energies just on earning a berth in the MLS Cup postseason tourney. That shouldn't be a problem, but we would also want to position ourselves so that we don't have to face FCD in the Semifinals.
I am looking forward to seeing how the rest of this season plays out.
DC United 52 points (Eastern Conference)
FC Dallas 46 points (Western Conference)
Dynamo 39 points (Western Conference)
Meanwhile, Chicago, Chivas USA, and Colorado are close behind with 38 points.
This puts Dynamo 14 points away from the Supporters' Shield, which we could do should DC lose every remaining game (tying one at most) and we win every remaining game. I'm going to be a pessimist and bet against this.
We are only 8 points away from the top of the Western Conference. This is doable – with help – but is really meaningless in terms of achievement. Still, we topped FCD this season, so it would be nice for us to top them in the standings.
In the end, with the Supporters' Shield and Open Cup out of our reach, we should focus our energies just on earning a berth in the MLS Cup postseason tourney. That shouldn't be a problem, but we would also want to position ourselves so that we don't have to face FCD in the Semifinals.
I am looking forward to seeing how the rest of this season plays out.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Reviewing my Prognostication
It is now really Monday. How did my hopes play out?
On a personal level...
No epiphany. I'm back at work. My life will continue to be one uneventful day after another until I slip, unnoticed, into my grave. (Me: 0-1)
I still need to fix the gate. If I weren't a perfectionist, I could do it in about 30 minutes. Instead, I want to completely replace it...which means I put it off. (Me: 0-2)
Saturday sports...
Chicago beat the Crew. That's fine. (Me: 0-3.) The Revs beat RBNY. That's fine too. (Me: 0-4.) DC United tied RSL, which doesn't help Dynamo one bit...and Moreno didn't even score to buoy my fantasy team. (Me: 0-5.) The Wizards clobbered the Rapids 4-1, helping Dynamo and my poor prognostication record. (Me: 1-5.) FC Dallas drew with Chivas USA. (Me: 2-5.) In college football, the Longhorns lose to OSU. Colt plays okay in his second game, but the rest of our team leaves much to be desired. (Me: 2-6.)
Sunday sports...
Dynamo beat the Gals 2-1, with goals from DeRo and Waibel offsetting a lone goal by Donovan. We played our usual 10 man formation for the last 30 minutes of the game, but still managed this well-timed result. And the goal scorers all help my fantasy team, Balder Dash, improve its lead in the division...while increasing Dynamo's chance at a berth in the post-season tournament. I'll give myself 2 points for this one, since it makes me so joyful. (Me: 4-6.)
My record as a seer wasn't all that great this past weekend, even with the illicit bonus point I tacked on in the end. The Dynamo result goes a long way toward consoling my spirit since I got that one, the most important one, correct. (That Longhorn miss was pretty painful though...not to mention the ones I missed on the personal level...but no worries about my inability to lift myself out of my mediocrity: Dynamo beat the Galaxy!)
I'm pulling for a few more things to happen this soccer season. First, the Dynamo make a miracle run and win the Western Conference. (A second place finish is not too bad though.) Second, the Galaxy don't make the playoffs. Third, the Galaxy lose the Open Cup final after having eliminated us from that tournament. That would do my heart good. Make it so.
On a personal level...
No epiphany. I'm back at work. My life will continue to be one uneventful day after another until I slip, unnoticed, into my grave. (Me: 0-1)
I still need to fix the gate. If I weren't a perfectionist, I could do it in about 30 minutes. Instead, I want to completely replace it...which means I put it off. (Me: 0-2)
Saturday sports...
Chicago beat the Crew. That's fine. (Me: 0-3.) The Revs beat RBNY. That's fine too. (Me: 0-4.) DC United tied RSL, which doesn't help Dynamo one bit...and Moreno didn't even score to buoy my fantasy team. (Me: 0-5.) The Wizards clobbered the Rapids 4-1, helping Dynamo and my poor prognostication record. (Me: 1-5.) FC Dallas drew with Chivas USA. (Me: 2-5.) In college football, the Longhorns lose to OSU. Colt plays okay in his second game, but the rest of our team leaves much to be desired. (Me: 2-6.)
Sunday sports...
Dynamo beat the Gals 2-1, with goals from DeRo and Waibel offsetting a lone goal by Donovan. We played our usual 10 man formation for the last 30 minutes of the game, but still managed this well-timed result. And the goal scorers all help my fantasy team, Balder Dash, improve its lead in the division...while increasing Dynamo's chance at a berth in the post-season tournament. I'll give myself 2 points for this one, since it makes me so joyful. (Me: 4-6.)
My record as a seer wasn't all that great this past weekend, even with the illicit bonus point I tacked on in the end. The Dynamo result goes a long way toward consoling my spirit since I got that one, the most important one, correct. (That Longhorn miss was pretty painful though...not to mention the ones I missed on the personal level...but no worries about my inability to lift myself out of my mediocrity: Dynamo beat the Galaxy!)
I'm pulling for a few more things to happen this soccer season. First, the Dynamo make a miracle run and win the Western Conference. (A second place finish is not too bad though.) Second, the Galaxy don't make the playoffs. Third, the Galaxy lose the Open Cup final after having eliminated us from that tournament. That would do my heart good. Make it so.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
The Day After Tomorrow
It is Monday, the day after tomorrow. Let's look back at what the weekend has wrought.
Early Saturday, I had an epiphany and quickly outlined a narrative that will, within a few months, become a novel that will be the voice of a generation. My wife was so moved by my conceptual plot that she coerced me to quit my job and work on the book full time.
Oh, I also fixed the gate to the backyard. It's a beaut.
Later that same day, Columbus beat Chicago and the Revs tied the Red Bulls. DC United, buoyed by a brace from Jaime Moreno, beat a scoreless RSL and the Wizards gave their new ownership something to celebrate by beating the Rapids (though Beckerman does manage a goal). FC Dallas managed to eke out a tie with Chivas USA; but Carlos Ruiz, who sat out the match due to yellow card accumulation, will be forced to miss his next match on Wednesday because further video review of past games proved he's a chronic cheater. Ruiz cries pitifully on camera and eventually becomes a fine, upstanding forward who scores goals without flopping.
In college football, the Longhorns beat the Buckeyes 28-17. Colt McCoy shines and our defense is dominating.
On Sunday, Dynamo beat the Gals 3-1, with goals from Ching (2) and DeRo offsetting a lone goal by Donovan.
So here it is, Monday, the day after tomorrow. I've complied with my wife's wishes and have quit my job. Now I'm sipping Kona coffee in my leather chair, having just written the first three chapters of my novel. UT is now #1 in the college rankings. The MLS Western standings are now thus: FC Dallas has 46, Houston has 39, Colorado has 35, Chivas USA has 35, and the Gals and the RSLers remain at 32. (Unbeknownst to me, FCD is about to begin a horrible slump and Houston is about to begin a powerful winning streak.)
Oh my Fantasy Team? Balder Dash? It has further distanced itself from the others in its division.
Now I think I'll go eat a piece of apple pie then take a nap before taking a walk in the 70 degree weather. Cheers.
Early Saturday, I had an epiphany and quickly outlined a narrative that will, within a few months, become a novel that will be the voice of a generation. My wife was so moved by my conceptual plot that she coerced me to quit my job and work on the book full time.
Oh, I also fixed the gate to the backyard. It's a beaut.
Later that same day, Columbus beat Chicago and the Revs tied the Red Bulls. DC United, buoyed by a brace from Jaime Moreno, beat a scoreless RSL and the Wizards gave their new ownership something to celebrate by beating the Rapids (though Beckerman does manage a goal). FC Dallas managed to eke out a tie with Chivas USA; but Carlos Ruiz, who sat out the match due to yellow card accumulation, will be forced to miss his next match on Wednesday because further video review of past games proved he's a chronic cheater. Ruiz cries pitifully on camera and eventually becomes a fine, upstanding forward who scores goals without flopping.
In college football, the Longhorns beat the Buckeyes 28-17. Colt McCoy shines and our defense is dominating.
On Sunday, Dynamo beat the Gals 3-1, with goals from Ching (2) and DeRo offsetting a lone goal by Donovan.
So here it is, Monday, the day after tomorrow. I've complied with my wife's wishes and have quit my job. Now I'm sipping Kona coffee in my leather chair, having just written the first three chapters of my novel. UT is now #1 in the college rankings. The MLS Western standings are now thus: FC Dallas has 46, Houston has 39, Colorado has 35, Chivas USA has 35, and the Gals and the RSLers remain at 32. (Unbeknownst to me, FCD is about to begin a horrible slump and Houston is about to begin a powerful winning streak.)
Oh my Fantasy Team? Balder Dash? It has further distanced itself from the others in its division.
Now I think I'll go eat a piece of apple pie then take a nap before taking a walk in the 70 degree weather. Cheers.
Video Review 101
The MLS acquited itself this week. Its disciplinary committee, using post-game review of game video, fined Carlos Ruiz $500 for acts of simulation in FCD's game vs Dynamo on September 2nd.
This is terrific use of video review to punish those who kill the game with skill-less cynicism. I believe repeated violations should merit game suspensions as well.
The disciplinary committee also fined Dynamo defender Eddie Robinson $500 and suspended him one additional game for violent conduct. This is completely warranted, but I think proper review would show Ruiz used an equal (if less effective) flurry of elbows. Ruiz should have been fined and suspended for his violent conduct IN ADDITION to his diving fine.
When diving is outlawed, only outlaws will dive...or something like that.
This is terrific use of video review to punish those who kill the game with skill-less cynicism. I believe repeated violations should merit game suspensions as well.
The disciplinary committee also fined Dynamo defender Eddie Robinson $500 and suspended him one additional game for violent conduct. This is completely warranted, but I think proper review would show Ruiz used an equal (if less effective) flurry of elbows. Ruiz should have been fined and suspended for his violent conduct IN ADDITION to his diving fine.
When diving is outlawed, only outlaws will dive...or something like that.
A wiser wag once quipped: When cryptography is outlawed, bayl bhgynjf jvyy unir cevinpl.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Our Final Hope
In the US -- and particularly in the MLS -- there are three prizes to be had. The MLS Cup is the most visible and most heralded. The Supporters' Shield is, in my mind, the most prestigious, and I'm glad that the MLS is taking steps to improve the benefit that goes with winning this recognition. The least visible and least prestigious is the Open Cup.
With the 1-0 loss last Saturday to FC Dallas, Dynamo pretty much eliminated their chance to get the most prestigious of the triumvirate: the Supporters' Shield. The race is now between FC Dallas and DC United, which is in a bit of a slump of late. The reason for the Dynamo loss has become the all too familiar in recent matches: poor decision-making that led to a red card -- this time it was Eddie Robinson in the 30-something minute. For the 2nd time in 3 games, Dynamo had to play a man down for more than an hour. The other reason for the loss is one that has plagued the side the entire season: poor finishing despite terrific ball possession and controlling the pace of the game.
With the 3-1 loss yesterday, Dynamo eliminated their chance for what is perhaps the easiest prize: the US Open Cup. Again, lousy finishing -- including a missed DeRo PK, of all things -- led to our demise. The game should have been 2-2 at halftime, resulting in a tie at the end of regulation since we wouldn't have been desperately pushing forward.
Now all of our hopes rest on making it through the post season MLS Cup tourney. But first we have to earn a place there. It would help if we could create some distance between us and the other Western Conference teams this Sunday versus the Galaxy -- yes, we play them twice in one week. Win and we are at least temporarily 4 points from 3rd, 7 points from not qualifying for the MLS Cup tourney. Lose and we are likely in 3rd place, 2 points from not making the post season.
Is there a bright side to Dynamo's recent form? Yes: DeRo's solid play (including his spectacular 55-yard goal of the week, but not including his failed PK) and the return of Ching. Paul Daglish's appearance with the team might also be a good thing, but time will have to prove that.
With the 1-0 loss last Saturday to FC Dallas, Dynamo pretty much eliminated their chance to get the most prestigious of the triumvirate: the Supporters' Shield. The race is now between FC Dallas and DC United, which is in a bit of a slump of late. The reason for the Dynamo loss has become the all too familiar in recent matches: poor decision-making that led to a red card -- this time it was Eddie Robinson in the 30-something minute. For the 2nd time in 3 games, Dynamo had to play a man down for more than an hour. The other reason for the loss is one that has plagued the side the entire season: poor finishing despite terrific ball possession and controlling the pace of the game.
With the 3-1 loss yesterday, Dynamo eliminated their chance for what is perhaps the easiest prize: the US Open Cup. Again, lousy finishing -- including a missed DeRo PK, of all things -- led to our demise. The game should have been 2-2 at halftime, resulting in a tie at the end of regulation since we wouldn't have been desperately pushing forward.
Now all of our hopes rest on making it through the post season MLS Cup tourney. But first we have to earn a place there. It would help if we could create some distance between us and the other Western Conference teams this Sunday versus the Galaxy -- yes, we play them twice in one week. Win and we are at least temporarily 4 points from 3rd, 7 points from not qualifying for the MLS Cup tourney. Lose and we are likely in 3rd place, 2 points from not making the post season.
Is there a bright side to Dynamo's recent form? Yes: DeRo's solid play (including his spectacular 55-yard goal of the week, but not including his failed PK) and the return of Ching. Paul Daglish's appearance with the team might also be a good thing, but time will have to prove that.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Midfield Magic
It's the 59th minute, and DeRo hits a goal from the halfway line -- against the wind -- to put Dynamo ahead 2-1 in windy Chicago. That's a sure goal of the week winner, and a definite candidate for goal of the year.
If it wins us the game, then it also buys us a much needed 3 points. We're only 1 point ahead of 3rd place Chivas, and 3 points ahead of Colorado.
DeRo has the goal of the year in each of the two previous years, could he make the trifecta?
And now it's the 69th minute, and the ref (this time Baldomero Toledo) once again rewards the cheating defensive play of our opponent when it doesn't award us a PK when Sanneh trips Moreno in the box...and the ref even gives Moreno a yellow card.
Nice goal line clearance by Robinson. Thank you, Eddie.
But then the ref decides to steal the show, giving Chicago a PK and a point. Not even a week has passed and it's time for another blog clamoring for professional referees if this is to be a professional league. Poor officiating once again -- and in a game changing fashion once again. But worse: they are creating a league of defenders who don't have to learn finesse and defensive tracking as long as they can get away with bone-jarring slide tackles that trump any offensive dribbling prowess. Thanks, refs, for confining the MLS to a crude existence where athleticism is rewarded over skill. You are limiting US Soccer and we soccer fans will pay for your sins.
If it wins us the game, then it also buys us a much needed 3 points. We're only 1 point ahead of 3rd place Chivas, and 3 points ahead of Colorado.
DeRo has the goal of the year in each of the two previous years, could he make the trifecta?
And now it's the 69th minute, and the ref (this time Baldomero Toledo) once again rewards the cheating defensive play of our opponent when it doesn't award us a PK when Sanneh trips Moreno in the box...and the ref even gives Moreno a yellow card.
Nice goal line clearance by Robinson. Thank you, Eddie.
But then the ref decides to steal the show, giving Chicago a PK and a point. Not even a week has passed and it's time for another blog clamoring for professional referees if this is to be a professional league. Poor officiating once again -- and in a game changing fashion once again. But worse: they are creating a league of defenders who don't have to learn finesse and defensive tracking as long as they can get away with bone-jarring slide tackles that trump any offensive dribbling prowess. Thanks, refs, for confining the MLS to a crude existence where athleticism is rewarded over skill. You are limiting US Soccer and we soccer fans will pay for your sins.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Alex Prus vs Dynamo
Dynamo lose to Chivas USA this past weekend. Chivas have been in good form of late, and they received help from their newest signing, .
They also received help from Alex Prus, the center referee.
First, in the 31st minute, Prus sends off Clark for pushing an opponent. The Daily Breeze, a California paper states: The shove earned Clark a red card and drew some laughter from the Chivas locker room after the match. "I slipped more than anything," Perez admitted. "When I ran in, the ref put his arm out and I stopped and had to hold on to the ref but he pushed me at the same time."
This decision was perhaps arguable, although how no cards were issued (not even a yellow) to the other participants is hard to understand.
Yet Prus was not to be outdone. In stoppage time in the second half, DeRo drove into the Penalty Box only to be hacked down by Jason Hernandez who failed to even touch the ball. The Daily Breeze: "Hernandez might want to consider it a birthday gift from Prus since he celebrated his 23rd birthday on Saturday."
The OC Register (also from California) notes that "Chivas USA got some help from an unexpected source Saturday night: referee Alex Prus."
ESPN states that Dynamo were "Hard done by the ref against Chivas."
Prus has ruined other games: Chivas v Fire this season and Galaxy v Earthquakes last season.
So the Dynamo lose...but who are the real losers? Soccer fans. We clamor for an improved product on the field, and most of the attention regarding this gets focused (rightly) on the players. But the referees are often amateurish and an embarrassment to the game. There is little accountability on their part. The MLS needs to institutionalize MLS referees so they can referee full time, receive quality training, and benefit from their successes while being penalized for their failures. They must also learn that if you make a mistake in a game, you don't make two in order to "balance" your mistakes. If the MLS can broaden its gaze beyond just soccer-specific stadiums, it might actually improve the game here in the States. It's not all on the player's shoulders.
They also received help from Alex Prus, the center referee.
First, in the 31st minute, Prus sends off Clark for pushing an opponent. The Daily Breeze, a California paper states: The shove earned Clark a red card and drew some laughter from the Chivas locker room after the match. "I slipped more than anything," Perez admitted. "When I ran in, the ref put his arm out and I stopped and had to hold on to the ref but he pushed me at the same time."
This decision was perhaps arguable, although how no cards were issued (not even a yellow) to the other participants is hard to understand.
Yet Prus was not to be outdone. In stoppage time in the second half, DeRo drove into the Penalty Box only to be hacked down by Jason Hernandez who failed to even touch the ball. The Daily Breeze: "Hernandez might want to consider it a birthday gift from Prus since he celebrated his 23rd birthday on Saturday."
The OC Register (also from California) notes that "Chivas USA got some help from an unexpected source Saturday night: referee Alex Prus."
ESPN states that Dynamo were "Hard done by the ref against Chivas."
Prus has ruined other games: Chivas v Fire this season and Galaxy v Earthquakes last season.
So the Dynamo lose...but who are the real losers? Soccer fans. We clamor for an improved product on the field, and most of the attention regarding this gets focused (rightly) on the players. But the referees are often amateurish and an embarrassment to the game. There is little accountability on their part. The MLS needs to institutionalize MLS referees so they can referee full time, receive quality training, and benefit from their successes while being penalized for their failures. They must also learn that if you make a mistake in a game, you don't make two in order to "balance" your mistakes. If the MLS can broaden its gaze beyond just soccer-specific stadiums, it might actually improve the game here in the States. It's not all on the player's shoulders.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Hope for Dynamo vs the Goats
Dynamo have struggled of late, particularly on offense. Chivas, meanwhile, have been able to put the ball in the net. The mid-week Open Cup victory over FCD should give Dynamo a little confidence, and so should Ives Galarcep's prediction:
The Dynamo are coming off a midweek Open Cup match and have to travel to California to face a rested Chivas USA team that is desperate not to fall out of playoff position. The Goats are unbeaten in six matches, but five of those have been ties. They need three points to hold off Real Salt Lake, and they'll find a way to get them courtesy of Ante Razov.
Chivas USA 2, Dynamo 0
Ives has a 39-53 success rate in his prognostications, so he's not particularly prescient. Good news for Dynamo.
And Dynamo could use the 3 points. We're only 3 points ahead of Colorado and 4 points ahead of Chivas. Being just 6 points from dropping out of contention for the MLS Cup, we need to create a little differentiation here...which we should -- Ching or no Ching -- based on our talent.
The Dynamo are coming off a midweek Open Cup match and have to travel to California to face a rested Chivas USA team that is desperate not to fall out of playoff position. The Goats are unbeaten in six matches, but five of those have been ties. They need three points to hold off Real Salt Lake, and they'll find a way to get them courtesy of Ante Razov.
Chivas USA 2, Dynamo 0
Ives has a 39-53 success rate in his prognostications, so he's not particularly prescient. Good news for Dynamo.
And Dynamo could use the 3 points. We're only 3 points ahead of Colorado and 4 points ahead of Chivas. Being just 6 points from dropping out of contention for the MLS Cup, we need to create a little differentiation here...which we should -- Ching or no Ching -- based on our talent.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Dynamo Close Down Frisco in The Open
Dynamo Houston dominated FCD yesterday in the quarterfinals of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. With Ching out and the offense sputtering, I was surprised that Dynamo could get a 3-0 victory over the folks from Frisco, but they did. Of course, it took a defender (Eddie Robinson) to net the first goal, but then two forwards, Alejandro Moreno and newbie Chris Wondolowski, finished off the scoring. I didn't realize this until today: yesterday was the first Open Cup victory over an MLS opponent for Coach Kinnear as a head coach.
Props to Dynamo for getting such a result with a mix of starters and reserves against an opponent that was nearly full strength. We may have had an additional advantage due to the familiarity of Clark field and its dimensions, since it's the Dynamo training field.
Now if we can beat the LALA boys in the HDC on September 6, we're in the finals, in reach of the Dewar Cup and our first silverware.
It's good that a lot of starters could rest yesterday, because we're in for a rough week. Dynamo goes to LA this Saturday versus Chivas USA, then to Chicago on Wednesday, and then to Dallas next Saturday. If ever FCD will have a chance to pull out a win against us, it will be next Saturday.
I fared well with my other predictions on the Open Cup. DC United won as did the LA Galaxy. Chicago was the only team to win in defiance of my prediction, but that was the softest of my predictions. With their win, every home team won yesterday; hopefully that trend is broken in LA on September 6.
Props to Dynamo for getting such a result with a mix of starters and reserves against an opponent that was nearly full strength. We may have had an additional advantage due to the familiarity of Clark field and its dimensions, since it's the Dynamo training field.
Now if we can beat the LALA boys in the HDC on September 6, we're in the finals, in reach of the Dewar Cup and our first silverware.
It's good that a lot of starters could rest yesterday, because we're in for a rough week. Dynamo goes to LA this Saturday versus Chivas USA, then to Chicago on Wednesday, and then to Dallas next Saturday. If ever FCD will have a chance to pull out a win against us, it will be next Saturday.
I fared well with my other predictions on the Open Cup. DC United won as did the LA Galaxy. Chicago was the only team to win in defiance of my prediction, but that was the softest of my predictions. With their win, every home team won yesterday; hopefully that trend is broken in LA on September 6.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Predictions for Tonight's Open Cup Matches
Here are my predictions for tonight's Open Cup matches:
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Colorado @ Los Angeles
Los Angeles continues its improvement, bolstered by the powers of darkness that eternally swirl at the heart of the club, and by Yallop's and Donovan's indomitable will.
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Dallas @ Houston
Houston will overcome its doldrums. Its (predominantly) 2nd string team will continue our streak over FCD, spoiling Hinslop's debut. You will win, Dynamo. Did you hear me?
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New York @ DC United
DC United is too good and RBNY is too mediocre. In the Open Cup, that usually guarantees RBNY will win, but I'll stick with DC United.
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New England @ Chicago
I will stray from the trend of picking the home team, and will pick the listless Revolution to beat the inconsistent Fire. The Fire really hasn't done much with its home field advantage anyway.
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I'm pretty ambivalent about the last two matches, but as for the first two matches (if the Lords of Soccer are tallying votes), I'd like LA to lose and Dynamo to win. Make it so.
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Colorado @ Los Angeles
Los Angeles continues its improvement, bolstered by the powers of darkness that eternally swirl at the heart of the club, and by Yallop's and Donovan's indomitable will.
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Dallas @ Houston
Houston will overcome its doldrums. Its (predominantly) 2nd string team will continue our streak over FCD, spoiling Hinslop's debut. You will win, Dynamo. Did you hear me?
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New York @ DC United
DC United is too good and RBNY is too mediocre. In the Open Cup, that usually guarantees RBNY will win, but I'll stick with DC United.
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New England @ Chicago
I will stray from the trend of picking the home team, and will pick the listless Revolution to beat the inconsistent Fire. The Fire really hasn't done much with its home field advantage anyway.
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I'm pretty ambivalent about the last two matches, but as for the first two matches (if the Lords of Soccer are tallying votes), I'd like LA to lose and Dynamo to win. Make it so.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
A plea for proper narrative
In life there are so few opportunities where events lend themselves to proper narrative -- where the plot builds with the appropriate amount of conflict before the protagonist overcome adversity in a dramatic, cathartic event that leaves all spectators sated in the denoument.
I am hoping for a happy narrative tomorrow in the Open Cup match between Dynamo and FCD. Our offensive woes have not abated; if we're not all-out impotent, then we're certainly sterile at least. We have only scored more than 2 goals four times this year (five if you include the Cup match versus the PDL level Dynamo). We dominate play, but do not have the vision, control, and even the serenity necessary to get the ball in the net. We miss absolute sitters (Barrett? Moreno?) or provide ill-timed service...which isn't a workable tactic anyway with Ching out due to surgery. The goals we have recently earned are gifts from our defenders (Serioux and Waibel being the latest bestowers).
We need to cast off this dark mantle in which we've draped ourselves and allow our true nature to shine forth. We need to score, and to do so with gusto and proclivity. We need to continue the streak against FCD and leap into the semi-finals in this, our inaugural season. We need to banish the Mark of Cain that our forwards have engraved on the team and establish a talisman built on the effusive talent Dynamo has in spades.
We're playing in a new venue (Dynamo's practice field at the Carl Lewis Complex) in front of a small but dedicated crowd. Let's win this then reignite our league play as we make a run for the MLS Cup...and let's turn this around before the Scotsman, Paul Dalglish, arrives so we can claim the turnaround for our own. (But here's hoping Dalglish does well for us and becomes a valued member of the Dynamo family as well.)
And let's get this story told right.
Of course some could argue that the proper narrative result is that the hapless Hoops, having never triumphed over their in-state rivals, overcome the odds and triumph for the debut of their inspirational keeper, in a match that gets them into the semi-finals of the oldest competition in the US.
But that'd be just pulp fiction. I want a solid piece of story telling, and Kinnear is just the raconteur to tell the tale. Go Dynamo.
I am hoping for a happy narrative tomorrow in the Open Cup match between Dynamo and FCD. Our offensive woes have not abated; if we're not all-out impotent, then we're certainly sterile at least. We have only scored more than 2 goals four times this year (five if you include the Cup match versus the PDL level Dynamo). We dominate play, but do not have the vision, control, and even the serenity necessary to get the ball in the net. We miss absolute sitters (Barrett? Moreno?) or provide ill-timed service...which isn't a workable tactic anyway with Ching out due to surgery. The goals we have recently earned are gifts from our defenders (Serioux and Waibel being the latest bestowers).
We need to cast off this dark mantle in which we've draped ourselves and allow our true nature to shine forth. We need to score, and to do so with gusto and proclivity. We need to continue the streak against FCD and leap into the semi-finals in this, our inaugural season. We need to banish the Mark of Cain that our forwards have engraved on the team and establish a talisman built on the effusive talent Dynamo has in spades.
We're playing in a new venue (Dynamo's practice field at the Carl Lewis Complex) in front of a small but dedicated crowd. Let's win this then reignite our league play as we make a run for the MLS Cup...and let's turn this around before the Scotsman, Paul Dalglish, arrives so we can claim the turnaround for our own. (But here's hoping Dalglish does well for us and becomes a valued member of the Dynamo family as well.)
And let's get this story told right.
Of course some could argue that the proper narrative result is that the hapless Hoops, having never triumphed over their in-state rivals, overcome the odds and triumph for the debut of their inspirational keeper, in a match that gets them into the semi-finals of the oldest competition in the US.
But that'd be just pulp fiction. I want a solid piece of story telling, and Kinnear is just the raconteur to tell the tale. Go Dynamo.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
It is ours; Come and take it
Tonight, Dynamo Houston takes the unconventional route and beats the Frisco Cheatin' Divers 1-0. How was it unconventional?
The people who sat behind us at the game seemed pretty new to Dynamo, but they quickly caught on: the Frisco Cheatin' Divers rely on a game of deception and histrionics to try to get the refs to win the game for them. It almost worked: one excellent free kick was saved by the woodwork, while another was cleared off the line by Alejandro Moreno. Thankfully the bad mojo that seems to kneecap Dynamo's talent did not raise its ugly head.
I am content.
Questions: With the second half such a struggle, why did Coach Kinnear wait so long to bring in a sub? Why did the usually classy Texian Army stoop to childish obscenities in their chants? (Because that's what English fans do? They do a lot of things we shouldn't. My children and the families around us in the stands surely did not appreciate the puerile crudeness.) Why can't the stadium clock keep running into stoppage time so we'll know where we stand?
The evening ended with my daughter getting the autographs of Waibel (game MVP), Holden, Ching, and Mullan. She was ecstatic with her coup; she even forgot about the obscenities her fellow fans shouted.
- They scored only one goal, and managed to win.
- Usually they dominate play and are unable to finish. Tonight, they had the better of the first half, and got a goal. Then they were taken out of their game in the second half, but managed not to give up a goal.
- DeRo, while still the playmaker, was less jaw-dropping than usual; and our wingers were unable to control the flanks and pepper the box with crosses.
- Waibel scored.
The people who sat behind us at the game seemed pretty new to Dynamo, but they quickly caught on: the Frisco Cheatin' Divers rely on a game of deception and histrionics to try to get the refs to win the game for them. It almost worked: one excellent free kick was saved by the woodwork, while another was cleared off the line by Alejandro Moreno. Thankfully the bad mojo that seems to kneecap Dynamo's talent did not raise its ugly head.
I am content.
Questions: With the second half such a struggle, why did Coach Kinnear wait so long to bring in a sub? Why did the usually classy Texian Army stoop to childish obscenities in their chants? (Because that's what English fans do? They do a lot of things we shouldn't. My children and the families around us in the stands surely did not appreciate the puerile crudeness.) Why can't the stadium clock keep running into stoppage time so we'll know where we stand?
The evening ended with my daughter getting the autographs of Waibel (game MVP), Holden, Ching, and Mullan. She was ecstatic with her coup; she even forgot about the obscenities her fellow fans shouted.
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