Man, it has been a looooong time. I mean, look at that old Ben Cup 2013 banner. Never fear, the Ben Cup is still in full effect, it has just gone underground. FYI, this year's model is unfortunately only one game and it is on the road. August 1st, RFK Stadium, all the marbles. Anyway, I just have been thinking about the upcoming season and thought "Eh, what the hell, let's throw up a post!" And so, away we go.
If there's one thing that scares me about RSL this year, it is injuries. Many of our key guys are old and/or injury-prone. Olave, Morales, Saborio, Schuler. It scares the hell out of me. That being said, I do like a lot of what's here.
The offense has a lot of potential. If Sabo and Plata can regain their past form, we'll score a lot. If Olmes remembers how to play soccer, even better! If Jaime adjusts to MLS, look out. Speaking of Jaime, I'm not sure what to expect. Let's be honest, he was a complete waste of a DP slot last year. Yet, a lot of guys that come in mid-season struggle until they get a full preseason under their belt. Long time listeners (first time callers) will recall Morales really wasn't all that great when he first came to Salt Lake either. No, I'm not forgetting Sandoval, but if we're depending on him to drive our offence, we're in a lot of trouble.
Moving to the midfield, we have known quantities, but somehow a lot of questions. Morales still has the vision and the technical ability, but he's getting up there (35 years old). Can he last a full season any more? Is there enough left in his legs for him to track back when needed, or even go a full 90? Speaking of age, Beckerman turns 33 in April. He has been extremely solid when it comes to injury, but when will that start to change? Probably not this year, but then, all it takes is one bad tackle (see: Morales, Javi). The biggest question is Luis Gil. Is this the year he finally consistently shows the brilliance that has always been expected from him? If he can make that leap to stardom (or near it), RSL could be scary good this year. Mulholland looked steady last year, and I expect more of the same now that he has a season under his belt and knows what to expect. In fact, a small bit of improvement this year wouldn't surprise me. Newcomer Pecka is an unknown quantity (for me, and for most, don't lie). The word often used for him upon his signing was "bite," but he's only around 5'6" or 5'7" which doesn't really scream intimidating to me. We'll see how he does.
The defense will be interesting. When they are healthy and on top of their games, and if they can learn to mesh together, I could certainly see Schuler/Olave being the best CB duo in MLS. Scary good. Then again, especially with Olave, but also to a point with Schuler, I always felt that Borchers was kind of the brain behind their brawn. Nat always seemed to get them in the right positions and help them make the reads so that they could react. We'll see how true that feeling was (and more on Nat in a sec). That being said, Schuler seems to have a good defensive IQ and it gets better every year, and Olave seemed to make a good impression in NYC without Nat, so I don't think simple positioning mistakes should be too prevalent. Beltran is Beltran. Workmanlike, steady, won't generally give you the spectacular, but generally won't lose many games for you. Demar Phillips should be a good pickup, coming over from Scandinavia and with over 60 caps for Jamaica. I hate to see Wingert go, but hopefully this will be more than sufficient cover for that loss. The young Guatemalan defender, Elias Vasquez, intrigues me. He comes with a good pedigree, including 25 caps, and he's only 22. I would imagine he'll get some game time this year, as I would think Cassar would rest his center backs, especially Olave, in order to keep them rested and healthy.
We lost a lot this offseason. A great GM in Garth? Gone. Wingert, Findley, Borchers? See ya. There's plenty more, but I don't need to rehash stuff that's been done to death. As you read the defender section, you may have thought, "Man, this guy loves Nat. He must be distraught!" Actually, no. I do like Nat and thought he did a great job here. However, last year you could just see he'd lost...something. He just seemed out of sorts in spots that he never did before. I think age is starting to creep up on him and that this was the perfect time for RSL to cut ties. Wingert, in my opinion, was a bigger loss. I will never understand why he never got a real shot at the USMNT, especially considering the dearth of full back options there. He has been consistently better than Beltran, yet got none of the fanfare. Extremely underrated and his loss hurts. RSL did a great job finding Phillips, however, and I'm much less pessimistic about left back than I was. Then there's Robbie Findley. Longtime RSL fans will know that wasn't the real Robbie out there last year. He just looked rusty to me and by the end of the season, lacking in confidence. His playing time was extremely hit or miss and he could never get into a rhythm. And Robbie needs rhythm. With a full offseason under him, I think he is due for a nice bounceback season and RSL will regret letting him go so easily. That is, if he can get PT in Toronto with Jozy there now.
So what will happen this year?
Worst case: Injuries, Olave goes down for the season. Morales gets hurt. Sabo struggles while dealing with some injuries. Schuler leads the back line for a while but then gets some niggling injuries himself. The new signings flame out. Plata's pre-injury form last year turns out to be a fluke. Rimando, Backerman, and Sabo all take off for the Gold Cup leaving RSL even more shorthanded. The new 4-3-3 formation never really seems to sink in. We limp into a fight for the last playoff seed and fall just short. We lose the Ben Cup.
Best case: Team stays healthy. Sabo/Plata become a killer strike force once again. Jaime figures it out. Schuler and Olave become the pairing they can be, Gil takes the step to the next level. Phillips is a revelation in the back, Grab second in the west, maybe steal the Open Cup, and who knows when you're into the playoffs. We win the Ben Cup overwhelmingly.
RR Forecast: I think some injuries will hit, but I'm hopeful we're not decimated. Schuler and Olave will become a dominant force. The new formation will be a little bit of trouble early, but we'll figure it out. Sabo gets back to his old form (great for a few games, disappears for the next few, repeat) and puts up at least 12-15. Morales will be great again, but his age will start to show by the end of the year. Gil is better, but still not where maybe his potential says he could/should. Perhaps used in a disadvantageous position for him. An early USOC exit, solid CCL play, a 3 or 4 seed in the west. At least one playoff round win. A small step back from last year, but mostly because everyone else seemed to get a lot better, rather than us getting worse. We win the Ben Cup.
GO RSL! Peace,
Showing posts with label RSL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label RSL. Show all posts
Friday, March 6, 2015
Friday, March 8, 2013
Ben Cup 2013 Preview
2013 is the year of the one-off Ben Cup match as MLS, in its infinite wisdom, is going more and more towards unbalanced schedules (which I hate in all sports, but that's another topic for another day). What this means is RSL will play certain teams 2 or 3 times, while others just once. By virtue of being across the country, we only get one Ben Cup match this year. I'm guessing it's in DC to give United an advantage, since this is a Cup they've only won once. Nice of the MLS schedulers to do that for them. So that means this Saturday, 5pm (Mtn.) is for all the marbles...er, trophy. Game on channel 4 and 700 AM. Here's a few of the bigger stories for Saturday:
Key Players Missing
RSL will once again be missing Javi, Nat, and Wingert through injury. Grabavoy also expected to miss with a lingering family issue (RR sends its best to him!). For DCU, DeRosario will miss the game through suspensionfor being a dumbass for headbutting an opponent during a preseason game. Actually, I think I was right the first time...
The K in RFK is for Kurse
RSL has played 7 games at RFK since coming into the league in 2005 (the REAL RSL 1.0). How many have they won? ZERO. Four losses, three ties. While a tie will retain the Cup for RSL for another year, we don't want to do it that way. But to win the trophy properly, they'll have to figure out the "kurse" of RFK.
Home Motivation
This game will be the home opener for DCU which, when combined with their loss last weekend against Houston, should provide the home side a spark. If RSL can find an early break through (or even just weather the early momentum), they should be in a good position to steal at least a point and the Cup!
Something's Fishy
While Ben Olsen straight up admitted he is not near 100% fitness and will not start, I would expect the Fish, Carlos Ruiz to find his way to the bench. If DCU needs a late spark, he could be a huge one, even at less than optimal fitness.
Confidence Issues
While I thought Robbie Findley showed some flashes last week, something did seem a bit off. I mark it down to confidence issues. I think getting little game time while being continually shuffled between managers, teams, and leagues would do that to a person. If he can grab a goal, look for his play to blossom.
Hi!
While we're playing the big Ben Cup match, RR just wants to give a shout out to DCU's Robbie Russell. Thanks for MLS Cup!
Having looked at both rosters on this great game guide produced by the league (although it is missing all the injuries), I like how RSL matches up here. With the exception of maybe Chris Pontius, no one in that starting 11 scares me. The loss of DeRo is a big one for this United squad. Does this mean that I think RSL will just walk all over them? Quite the opposite. There is still quite a bit of talent on that roster and RSL will be playing its second road game in as many weeks (and on the opposite coast). To be honest, while DCU is no San Jose, RSL was second-best for the first 65 minutes of that game last week and was lucky that poor finishing kept the Earthquakes off the board. If RSL's back line shows up that shaky again this week, it could get ugly. That being said, RSL is the better team and should squeak one out to get their first win at RFK. Better yet, the Ben Cup stays in Sandy!
YE OLDE ROYAL PREDICTION: RSL 2 - DCU 1 (goals to Sabo and DJ Robbie F*)
*I have no idea why I called him that, but you must admit it is awesome!
On a side note, in other DC sports news, LET'S GO ORANGE! Take down those GTown bastards!
Key Players Missing
RSL will once again be missing Javi, Nat, and Wingert through injury. Grabavoy also expected to miss with a lingering family issue (RR sends its best to him!). For DCU, DeRosario will miss the game through suspension
The K in RFK is for Kurse
RSL has played 7 games at RFK since coming into the league in 2005 (the REAL RSL 1.0). How many have they won? ZERO. Four losses, three ties. While a tie will retain the Cup for RSL for another year, we don't want to do it that way. But to win the trophy properly, they'll have to figure out the "kurse" of RFK.
Home Motivation
This game will be the home opener for DCU which, when combined with their loss last weekend against Houston, should provide the home side a spark. If RSL can find an early break through (or even just weather the early momentum), they should be in a good position to steal at least a point and the Cup!
Something's Fishy
While Ben Olsen straight up admitted he is not near 100% fitness and will not start, I would expect the Fish, Carlos Ruiz to find his way to the bench. If DCU needs a late spark, he could be a huge one, even at less than optimal fitness.
Confidence Issues
While I thought Robbie Findley showed some flashes last week, something did seem a bit off. I mark it down to confidence issues. I think getting little game time while being continually shuffled between managers, teams, and leagues would do that to a person. If he can grab a goal, look for his play to blossom.
Hi!
While we're playing the big Ben Cup match, RR just wants to give a shout out to DCU's Robbie Russell. Thanks for MLS Cup!
Having looked at both rosters on this great game guide produced by the league (although it is missing all the injuries), I like how RSL matches up here. With the exception of maybe Chris Pontius, no one in that starting 11 scares me. The loss of DeRo is a big one for this United squad. Does this mean that I think RSL will just walk all over them? Quite the opposite. There is still quite a bit of talent on that roster and RSL will be playing its second road game in as many weeks (and on the opposite coast). To be honest, while DCU is no San Jose, RSL was second-best for the first 65 minutes of that game last week and was lucky that poor finishing kept the Earthquakes off the board. If RSL's back line shows up that shaky again this week, it could get ugly. That being said, RSL is the better team and should squeak one out to get their first win at RFK. Better yet, the Ben Cup stays in Sandy!
YE OLDE ROYAL PREDICTION: RSL 2 - DCU 1 (goals to Sabo and DJ Robbie F*)
*I have no idea why I called him that, but you must admit it is awesome!
On a side note, in other DC sports news, LET'S GO ORANGE! Take down those GTown bastards!
Sunday, March 3, 2013
2013 Offseason Review/Mini Preview
Holy crap! A Royal Review post! I know, I know, I think they found the Lindbergh baby too! Anyway, I'm so glad to have RSL back starting tonight (as I'm sure you are too, if you're reading this) that I decided to actually throw a quick post together.
Mostly, I wanted to run through some of the roster moves and see where I think the team has improved (or gotten worse) from 2012. I'm lazy (and in a hurry) so I won't go through all the roster moves here, I'll assume you're up to date on that by now. And away we go:
Goalkeepers: Improved
While Nick Rimando will remain between the sticks and continue to be one of the league's best, it is behind him that the improvement has come. Yes, I think that Kyle Reynish is a capable backup and thought he did a solid job, however, how often do you get the chance to add last year's championship winning goalie as your #2??? Great (and underrated) move by RSL this offseason.
Defense: Even
Let's get it out of the way, Olave is a huge loss. HUGE. But he is also injury plagued. With how many games he missed last year, we are basically left with the same back line as last year. I actually think unloading Olave was probably the best move RSL made this offseason, at least in the departure category. He will be missed, but it was a good time to cut our losses. The injuries to Borchers and Wingert to start the season are the big worry in my eyes and the defense could be off to a rough start this year.
Midfield: Worsened
The player I think RSL will miss most in 2013 is Will Johnson. He always did a little bit of everything while being a bit unappreciated for it. His impact can be shown by the fact that he's already been named captain at his new club. Luis Gil is extremely talented and will be a great player one day (and I think he'll have a quality 2013), but he does not make up for Will (yet). The other "loss" in midfield is Javi Morales, who has yet to return to his pre-injury form from a couple seasons ago. With him again on the injury list and his increasing age, I have my doubts that he will ever be the regular impact player he once was. I'm hoping that he will prove me wrong, but until he does, I tend to think RSL's centering their off-season around Javi re-signing was kind of a bad idea. (Having said all that, you don't easily just replace Javier Morales. On his game, he is a difference maker.) None of the new signings really get me excited at all (they are not bad signings, just not any that will likely be difference makers) and the over dependence on Ned Grabavoy scares me a little. He's a good role player, but little more, and I think he'll be getting more minutes than I'd like to see this year.
Forward: Improved
This one is easy. I love Fabi, but I think a change of scenery was probably needed for him. On top of that, Robbie Findley > Fabian Espindola. So glad to have Robin Hood back from Sherwood! Joao Plata is an upgrade from Paulo Jr., and with Kreis' insistence on not giving Braun a chance (a bad move both from a marketing standpoint and an on-field standpoint. We weren't scoring either way last year!) made his loss a non-issue. Hopefully, Saborio can learn to be less streaky and to turn it on against better opponents, but even if he doesn't, I think Robbie will be able to pick up some of that slack.
Overall: Slightly Improved
I do think RSL 2013 (sorry Garth, this is not RSL 2.0! Did you forget the Rice-Eccles years? I haven't) is probably better than 2012. Not having CONCACAF play sucks, but I think will be a godsend for a team that seemed to get stretched a bit thin by the end of last year.
Best case scenario for 2013:
Javi comes back strong and the defense holds out until Borchers and Wingert get back. The injury bug stays away. RSL makes an uncharacteristic deep run in the Open Cup and wins it. Takes 3rd in the West and has a magical 2009-ish run to MLS Cup.
Worst case for 2013:
Javi and Nat struggle with injuries all season while Kyle and Nick (and Sabo) take off on international duty. The piecemeal defense struggles. Luis Gil can't take the next step over a whole season. RSL again crashes out of the Open Cup against Amateur FC and finishes in the 6-8 range, missing the playoffs.
Royal Review 2013 prediction:
RSL finally wins a couple Open Cup games, but falls before the final. A streaky season where they go back to winning at home and struggling on the road. Finishes 3rd or 4th in the west behind some combination of San Jose, Seattle, and LA. RSL wins the Rocky Mountain Cup and keeps the Ben Cup based off an early season tie against DCU (their only meeting this year). Falls in the 2nd round of the playoffs. I'll try and keep the blog up and fail (hahaha!).
LET'S GO RSL!!!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Has it been a year already?
Wow. Getting a bit dusty around here. Hard to believe it has been a year since my last post. Crazy how time flies. Not sure what I'm going to do around here, I'd still like to post, albeit probably not at the prolific rate I did in '09. On a side note, what a great year to pick to cover the team, huh? We're still the home for the Ben Cup, that's not something I will let die (in fact, this year's installment kicks off June 18th). Should be fun with a re-tooled DC United this year. Excited to see RSL take down Dax, Party Boy, and CD9!
Anyway, great start to the season so far. Great CCL results, even if RSL should be up 3-0 instead of 2-0 on Saprissa. I was right there, saw the goal that was called off. There was no call to be made there. That ref was an ass. But I digress. Hard fought win in the slop at San Jose and then the demolition of the Gals last weekend. It's been fun to watch. I'm very excited to see what RSL can put together in what is sure to be an imposing environment in Costa Rica.
And really, that's all I've got for the moment (this was a very spur of the moment post). If you still check in every now and then, thanks! If you enjoy the Review, leave a comment, please. It may inspire me to post more! In closing, I'd like to give a couple virtual high-fives out. First to RSL for signing nationally ranked player Conor Chinn as a fourth string forward. He puts star(kick)s in my eyes (and don't get run over)! And also to Nat Borchers for his sweet "Lambeau Leap" (Sandy Spring? Borchers Bound?) into the supporters end after the Saprissa game. It was a very nice touch!
Anyway, great start to the season so far. Great CCL results, even if RSL should be up 3-0 instead of 2-0 on Saprissa. I was right there, saw the goal that was called off. There was no call to be made there. That ref was an ass. But I digress. Hard fought win in the slop at San Jose and then the demolition of the Gals last weekend. It's been fun to watch. I'm very excited to see what RSL can put together in what is sure to be an imposing environment in Costa Rica.
And really, that's all I've got for the moment (this was a very spur of the moment post). If you still check in every now and then, thanks! If you enjoy the Review, leave a comment, please. It may inspire me to post more! In closing, I'd like to give a couple virtual high-fives out. First to RSL for signing nationally ranked player Conor Chinn as a fourth string forward. He puts star(kick)s in my eyes (and don't get run over)! And also to Nat Borchers for his sweet "Lambeau Leap" (Sandy Spring? Borchers Bound?) into the supporters end after the Saprissa game. It was a very nice touch!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
2010 Game 1: RSL vs. SJ - Live Thoughts
I'll work on this as long as I feel like it; if it suddenly ends, sorry. Ha!
Pregame- Espi and Findley up top, nice. Grabavoy on the right instead of AWill, who I kinda expected to see. Just seconds away!
1st min-And RSL 2010 is off and running! Kinda digging the blue stripes on the sleeves on the away jersey.
5th min-Both teams looking out of sync and tenative. Espindola goes flying over the boards as Leitch fouls him very near the sideline. Crazy!
7th min-Rimando slips trying to clear the ball, SJ nearly pounces on it... Yikes, not a good start.
9th min-Salt Lake's D looking very vulnerable early. This could be a high scoring affair if either team can get its passing together.
12th min-Dangerous SJ free kick in the corner but luckily right to Big Nick.
14th min-GOAL JAVI! Gorgeous shot from deep!
Wife wants the laptop so I'm out.
27th min-And I'm back. Javi a beautiful ball through the middle and 2 defenders to Espi who chips Cannon. 2-0 RSL!
30 minutes in, Espi, Javi, and Rimando looking good. Central defense still bending but haven't broken yet.
31st min-Both RSL and SJ players slipping in the same place Nick did earlier. Apparently there have been oil slicks installed at Buck Shaw.
33rd min-Announcers just said former RSL man Atiba Harris has scored a goal tonight. Nice to hear, always liked Atiba.
34th min-Grabavoy diving in recklessly again, luckily no foul. He's been doing that a lot tonight, he needs to be careful, many MLS refs will card him for efforts like that.
37th min-Findley really struggling with the touch tonight, even more so than usual. A bit overeager perhaps?
39th min-And there's Ned's yellow. He really needs to get his head on straight.
42nd min-Cornell Glen and Ryan Johnson causing RSL all sorts of problems. Becks comes flying into the box and saves the day just before Glen can turn.
Half time- RSL 2 - SJ 0. Nice first 45 minutes of the season for the Reds. Was it perfect? Not by any means, but up 2-0 on the road at half is not a place RSL sees themselves very often! B+. Javi, Nick, Espi, and the outside backs have impressed. The central defenders, Neddy G, and Robbie F. have looked a bit off.
46th min-30 seconds in, Espi already on the attack again, Cannon barely able to stop his run!
53rd min- Espi gets free, beats Leitch, who grabs him from behind just outside the box. Last man back, red card Leitch. Javi then rockets the free kick into the far post upper 90. 3-0 RSL! Javi looking like he should be going to South Africa with Argentina tonight! Up 3, up a man, barring a complete collapse, this is 3 points in the bank for RSL.
58th min-Brandon McDonald goes in very high and very late on WillJ. Yellow card. Quakes losing their composure here?
59th min-Nat Borchers looking like he's at the end of a Rocky movie, absolutely covered in blood. Cut on his forehead.
60th min-10 v 10 while Nat is attended to. Alvarez burns Robbie Russell, gets free in the box, but hits the post. San Jose's follow-up goes way over.
63rd min-And to answer the trivia question: Who are RSL's first subs of 2010? Rauwshan McKenzie for the bloody Borchers and Andy Williams for Ned Grabbingboys.
65th min-Olave beaten, ugly foul from behind on Johnson. Yellow card. Dangerous place for a free kick. Alvarez shanks it. Crisis averted.
71st min-Espi out, Alvaro Saborio in. Big new signing or Kenny Deuchar part 2?
73rd-Must say that the defense, for the most part, has looked improved here in the second half.
73rd-Johnson gets the ball right in front of the goal, great save Rimando! Also kicked Olave on the follow through, possibly in the knee. All subs have been made for RSL, we're going 10 v 10, at least for a while.
75th-Saborio with a long shot, rolls weakly to Cannon. First MLS shot for him.
76th-Olave back on but obviously hurt. This allows Glen to run right by him, but Rimando uts him off and he just puts it wide.
78th-Saborio beats and draws the defense, passes to Findley in the box, Cannon beaten, Corrales saves it off the line. Shades of things to come?
80th min-Olave still limping, announcers say it's the right knee. Could be a devastating blow for RSL if he is out for any extended length of time.
82nd-I know the shutout would be nice and all, but RSL should really think about just pulling Olave and not risk further injury. Since the Quakes are already down a man, you'd still be even strength. Not worth keeping him out there to protect a 3 goal lead for 10 min.
84th-Maybe a little early to say this but Saborio already looking much faster and with much better feet than Deuchar ever did.
85th-Ryan Johnson with a flick to Amerikwa who just can't quite get onto the ball for a free header.
86th-Ryan Johnson looks very dangerous still. Could be a big year for him.
88th-Wave after wave of SJ attack. Alvarez and Johnson leading the charge. You'd think they were up a man! Olave down again and now with a huge limp. GET HIM OFF THE FIELD!
90th-Olave on one leg with a beautiful challenge in the box on Amerikwa, denying his run. Perfectly timed! Dude is a beast!
90+1-Amerikwa throws a completely unnecessary shoulder/elbow into WillJ as he goes by, nearly starts a fight. Guess who just won Assclown of the Match?
Full time-RSL starts 2010 with a 3-0 victory ON THE ROAD!!! Nice start to the year. Second half got a little ugly late, especially with Olave hurt and San Jose desperate. Half grade-B
Grades:
Game grade: B+, nice 3-0 win, but probably should be a bit better up a man. Seemed to get a bit complacent late.
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-8 Stellar all night long.
Robbie Russell-6 A couple mistakes too many.
Nat Borchers-6 OK game for Nat, probably needs a transfusion now.
(Rauwshan McKenzie)-6 Quiet, but helped keep SJ off the board.
Jamison Olave-6 Had some great moments and some iffy ones.
Chris Wingert-6 Great first half, too quiet in the second.
Kyle Beckerman-6 Nondescript game for Becks.
Ned Grabavoy-5 A little too wild and crazy on his challenges.
(Andy Williams)-6 Not a ton to do, but tracked back well on defense.
Will Johnson-6 Quiet game for the Mountie.
Javier Morales-9 Absolutely brilliant. 2 goals and an assist.
Fabian Espindola-8 Great game. Got a goal and was a thorn in SJ's side all night.
(Alvaro Saborio)-7 Not a lot of time on the field, but very active.
Robbie Findley-5 Poor game for Robbie, touch was really off.
RSL Man of the Match: Javi Morales
Abused the San Jose midfield and defense. Simply masterful, by far the best player on the field.
Assclown of the Match: Quincy Amarikwa
Gives Will Johnson an overly-aggressive version of the old "high school shoulder" for no reason. Totally douchy move. Amarikwa the Assclown. It just rolls off the tongue.
Pros and Cons:
+Javi and Espi looking like their old selves.
+RSL already has half as many road wins as last year after one game.
+Nice solid shutout to start the year.
+Rimando great, as usual, in goal.
-Injury to Olave looks like it could be pretty big and possibly recurring throughout the year.
-Although they didn't give up a goal, the defense looked very suspect at times.
-Have Findley's feet actually gotten worse?
Pregame- Espi and Findley up top, nice. Grabavoy on the right instead of AWill, who I kinda expected to see. Just seconds away!
1st min-And RSL 2010 is off and running! Kinda digging the blue stripes on the sleeves on the away jersey.
5th min-Both teams looking out of sync and tenative. Espindola goes flying over the boards as Leitch fouls him very near the sideline. Crazy!
7th min-Rimando slips trying to clear the ball, SJ nearly pounces on it... Yikes, not a good start.
9th min-Salt Lake's D looking very vulnerable early. This could be a high scoring affair if either team can get its passing together.
12th min-Dangerous SJ free kick in the corner but luckily right to Big Nick.
14th min-GOAL JAVI! Gorgeous shot from deep!
Wife wants the laptop so I'm out.
27th min-And I'm back. Javi a beautiful ball through the middle and 2 defenders to Espi who chips Cannon. 2-0 RSL!
30 minutes in, Espi, Javi, and Rimando looking good. Central defense still bending but haven't broken yet.
31st min-Both RSL and SJ players slipping in the same place Nick did earlier. Apparently there have been oil slicks installed at Buck Shaw.
33rd min-Announcers just said former RSL man Atiba Harris has scored a goal tonight. Nice to hear, always liked Atiba.
34th min-Grabavoy diving in recklessly again, luckily no foul. He's been doing that a lot tonight, he needs to be careful, many MLS refs will card him for efforts like that.
37th min-Findley really struggling with the touch tonight, even more so than usual. A bit overeager perhaps?
39th min-And there's Ned's yellow. He really needs to get his head on straight.
42nd min-Cornell Glen and Ryan Johnson causing RSL all sorts of problems. Becks comes flying into the box and saves the day just before Glen can turn.
Half time- RSL 2 - SJ 0. Nice first 45 minutes of the season for the Reds. Was it perfect? Not by any means, but up 2-0 on the road at half is not a place RSL sees themselves very often! B+. Javi, Nick, Espi, and the outside backs have impressed. The central defenders, Neddy G, and Robbie F. have looked a bit off.
46th min-30 seconds in, Espi already on the attack again, Cannon barely able to stop his run!
53rd min- Espi gets free, beats Leitch, who grabs him from behind just outside the box. Last man back, red card Leitch. Javi then rockets the free kick into the far post upper 90. 3-0 RSL! Javi looking like he should be going to South Africa with Argentina tonight! Up 3, up a man, barring a complete collapse, this is 3 points in the bank for RSL.
58th min-Brandon McDonald goes in very high and very late on WillJ. Yellow card. Quakes losing their composure here?
59th min-Nat Borchers looking like he's at the end of a Rocky movie, absolutely covered in blood. Cut on his forehead.
60th min-10 v 10 while Nat is attended to. Alvarez burns Robbie Russell, gets free in the box, but hits the post. San Jose's follow-up goes way over.
63rd min-And to answer the trivia question: Who are RSL's first subs of 2010? Rauwshan McKenzie for the bloody Borchers and Andy Williams for Ned Grabbingboys.
65th min-Olave beaten, ugly foul from behind on Johnson. Yellow card. Dangerous place for a free kick. Alvarez shanks it. Crisis averted.
71st min-Espi out, Alvaro Saborio in. Big new signing or Kenny Deuchar part 2?
73rd-Must say that the defense, for the most part, has looked improved here in the second half.
73rd-Johnson gets the ball right in front of the goal, great save Rimando! Also kicked Olave on the follow through, possibly in the knee. All subs have been made for RSL, we're going 10 v 10, at least for a while.
75th-Saborio with a long shot, rolls weakly to Cannon. First MLS shot for him.
76th-Olave back on but obviously hurt. This allows Glen to run right by him, but Rimando uts him off and he just puts it wide.
78th-Saborio beats and draws the defense, passes to Findley in the box, Cannon beaten, Corrales saves it off the line. Shades of things to come?
80th min-Olave still limping, announcers say it's the right knee. Could be a devastating blow for RSL if he is out for any extended length of time.
82nd-I know the shutout would be nice and all, but RSL should really think about just pulling Olave and not risk further injury. Since the Quakes are already down a man, you'd still be even strength. Not worth keeping him out there to protect a 3 goal lead for 10 min.
84th-Maybe a little early to say this but Saborio already looking much faster and with much better feet than Deuchar ever did.
85th-Ryan Johnson with a flick to Amerikwa who just can't quite get onto the ball for a free header.
86th-Ryan Johnson looks very dangerous still. Could be a big year for him.
88th-Wave after wave of SJ attack. Alvarez and Johnson leading the charge. You'd think they were up a man! Olave down again and now with a huge limp. GET HIM OFF THE FIELD!
90th-Olave on one leg with a beautiful challenge in the box on Amerikwa, denying his run. Perfectly timed! Dude is a beast!
90+1-Amerikwa throws a completely unnecessary shoulder/elbow into WillJ as he goes by, nearly starts a fight. Guess who just won Assclown of the Match?
Full time-RSL starts 2010 with a 3-0 victory ON THE ROAD!!! Nice start to the year. Second half got a little ugly late, especially with Olave hurt and San Jose desperate. Half grade-B
Grades:
Game grade: B+, nice 3-0 win, but probably should be a bit better up a man. Seemed to get a bit complacent late.
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-8 Stellar all night long.
Robbie Russell-6 A couple mistakes too many.
Nat Borchers-6 OK game for Nat, probably needs a transfusion now.
(Rauwshan McKenzie)-6 Quiet, but helped keep SJ off the board.
Jamison Olave-6 Had some great moments and some iffy ones.
Chris Wingert-6 Great first half, too quiet in the second.
Kyle Beckerman-6 Nondescript game for Becks.
Ned Grabavoy-5 A little too wild and crazy on his challenges.
(Andy Williams)-6 Not a ton to do, but tracked back well on defense.
Will Johnson-6 Quiet game for the Mountie.
Javier Morales-9 Absolutely brilliant. 2 goals and an assist.
Fabian Espindola-8 Great game. Got a goal and was a thorn in SJ's side all night.
(Alvaro Saborio)-7 Not a lot of time on the field, but very active.
Robbie Findley-5 Poor game for Robbie, touch was really off.
RSL Man of the Match: Javi Morales
Abused the San Jose midfield and defense. Simply masterful, by far the best player on the field.
Assclown of the Match: Quincy Amarikwa
Gives Will Johnson an overly-aggressive version of the old "high school shoulder" for no reason. Totally douchy move. Amarikwa the Assclown. It just rolls off the tongue.
Pros and Cons:
+Javi and Espi looking like their old selves.
+RSL already has half as many road wins as last year after one game.
+Nice solid shutout to start the year.
+Rimando great, as usual, in goal.
-Injury to Olave looks like it could be pretty big and possibly recurring throughout the year.
-Although they didn't give up a goal, the defense looked very suspect at times.
-Have Findley's feet actually gotten worse?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
The Royal Review Does The Double!
Now I have terrible luck with my sports teams usually (see: Chicago Cubs, Syracuse Univ. Football, Southern Utah Univ. anything, RSL until last year), but amazingly, both of the soccer teams that I root for have won the championship! We all know that RSL won the MLS Cup, but over last weekend, Sydney FC went into Melbourne and beat the hated rival Victory on their home turf for the Australian A-League championship. Nice! Oddly, both RSL and SFC needed penalty kicks to decide the championship. My favorite moment of the game? The 40-second or so sequence in the following video that is, in my opinion, one of the great sports sequences of all time:
Melbourne have a goal disallowed for offside and, while complaining, fail to fully get back on defense which allows Sydney to score a quick "counter attack" goal. Making it even better is the reaction of the Melbourne fan in front at about :56 seconds in. Classic. Congrats to my boys in sky blue, Sydney FC, on the championship! And while we are at it, good luck in SLC, Syracuse! Final Four, here we come. And last, but certainly not least, with the MLS season ready to kick off this week (finally, and thankfully, with the strike averted): GO REAL SALT LAKE!
Melbourne have a goal disallowed for offside and, while complaining, fail to fully get back on defense which allows Sydney to score a quick "counter attack" goal. Making it even better is the reaction of the Melbourne fan in front at about :56 seconds in. Classic. Congrats to my boys in sky blue, Sydney FC, on the championship! And while we are at it, good luck in SLC, Syracuse! Final Four, here we come. And last, but certainly not least, with the MLS season ready to kick off this week (finally, and thankfully, with the strike averted): GO REAL SALT LAKE!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Luis Gil
How funny. I read an article this morning where US U-17 midfielder Luis Gil, recently won by the Wizards in a lottery, had stated he wanted to stay out west with either Seattle or Salt Lake. On my way here to the Review to talk about how I thought that would be a nice pickup for the future, I stopped by Steve Goff's blog on the Washington Post and he says that RSL has already traded for Gil! I really like the move and think Gil could develop well with the help of Javi, Kyle, Andy, WillJ, and coach K (not to mention perhaps some CONCACAF Champions League experience). I'm not sure how I feel about RSL sending ANOTHER of its few international spots to KC (hopefully this one's only for a year, not time and all eternity). More details to come, I'm sure, but for now, nice move by RSL!
Monday, February 1, 2010
2011 RSL
So I've been playing a bit (ok, a TON) of Football Manager 2010 lately, and with the offseason dragging on, I decided to post the 2011 Real Salt Lake roster (at least with manager 'Max Power' at the helm):
GK:
Nick Rimando
Quentin Westberg ($30k transfer from ESTAC-French League-in 2010)
DF:
Nat Borchers
Jamison Olave
Tony Beltran (currently transfer listed by request)
Chris Wingert
David Horst
Drew Moor (claimed from waiver draft 2011)
Bakary Soro (signed on a free transfer 2009)
Jeremy Hall (also MF, trade for Chris Seitz-preseason 2011)
MF:
Kyle Beckerman (captain)
Javier Morales (vice captain)
Will Johnson
Andy Williams
Jean Alexandre
Alex Nimo
Nick LaBrocca (claimed off waivers 2010)
Rhyan Grant ($1.4 million transfer 2010)
DaMarcus Beasley (free transfer, released from club after WC2010)
FW:
Robbie Findley
Edson Buddle (claimed off waivers 2009)
Shane Smeltz ($775k transfer after incentives mid-2011)
oh, and one other guy...
(the oft-injured) Ruud van Nistelrooy (free transfer mid-2010)
All in with almost $1,000 to spare per week under the cap.
As of July 27, 2011, RSL is sitting 4th of 8 in the Western Conference with a 9-8-1 record and 28 points. However, the first stretch of the season was busy with games in the 2010-2011 Champions League, where RSL ultimately came in 2nd after falling to America in the final. RSL is also still alive in the USOC, with an upcoiming semi-final game against the Gals.
GK:
Nick Rimando
Quentin Westberg ($30k transfer from ESTAC-French League-in 2010)
DF:
Nat Borchers
Jamison Olave
Tony Beltran (currently transfer listed by request)
Chris Wingert
David Horst
Drew Moor (claimed from waiver draft 2011)
Bakary Soro (signed on a free transfer 2009)
Jeremy Hall (also MF, trade for Chris Seitz-preseason 2011)
MF:
Kyle Beckerman (captain)
Javier Morales (vice captain)
Will Johnson
Andy Williams
Jean Alexandre
Alex Nimo
Nick LaBrocca (claimed off waivers 2010)
Rhyan Grant ($1.4 million transfer 2010)
DaMarcus Beasley (free transfer, released from club after WC2010)
FW:
Robbie Findley
Edson Buddle (claimed off waivers 2009)
Shane Smeltz ($775k transfer after incentives mid-2011)
oh, and one other guy...
(the oft-injured) Ruud van Nistelrooy (free transfer mid-2010)
All in with almost $1,000 to spare per week under the cap.
As of July 27, 2011, RSL is sitting 4th of 8 in the Western Conference with a 9-8-1 record and 28 points. However, the first stretch of the season was busy with games in the 2010-2011 Champions League, where RSL ultimately came in 2nd after falling to America in the final. RSL is also still alive in the USOC, with an upcoiming semi-final game against the Gals.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
It'll never happen, but...
Seriously, if anyone in "RSL FO-land" sees this, please take a good long look at Shane Smeltz out of the Australian A-League. I know he'd probably cost a bit more than the team would like to spend, but the man has a $277,234.76 (A$300,000) buy-out clause in his contract. 6' 1" striker, 28 years old, and will get great experience playing in the World Cup this summer (with the Kiwis), and has 19 goals in 21 games this current season. Yes, 19. If RSL upgraded from Yura "Can't Hit The Broad Side Of A Barn" Movsisyan to this man...wow. 10-15 goals a year in MLS, no doubt in my mind, he's that good. Unfortunately, it looks like he's getting some interest from China and possibly Scandinavia, so a move would have to be made sooner rather than later. Would he come? Hard to say. But you don't know until you ask...
Sunday, November 22, 2009
MLS Cup 2009-Live Thoughts
I'm not sure how much I'll actually do (I want to watch the game!) but I'm going to try and throw up some thoughts as the game goes on...
9th minute-Defense looking a bit shaky. Donovan gets the ball in the box but is too slow with it. Play develops into a pretty clear header for Buddle, luckily put wide.
11th-Javi wastes a free kick straight on about 45 yds out, puts it directly over the end line.
12th-Beckham has the worst hairdo ever. Worse than a mullet. Gonna call it "the douchecut" as it is, indeed, quite douchy.
17th-Javi looks hurt after Beckham chops his legs out from under him. Announcer says "I didn't see a foul there." Makes me think that if you're going to commentate a game you should probably actually watch the game.
19th-Sounds like a knee injury for Javi, but he's going to come back on, at least for a while.
20th-Yura beats his man and then finds a new creative way to blow it by falling down. Javi about done, Cleetus going to come on for him.
22nd-Javi crying as he comes off, my wife feels really bad for him (understandably so). She thinks it sucks for him that he has to go out once he makes it all the way to the final.
25th-Findley wide open run, but called offside. Looked very borderline, looks like the AR are calling this (too) conservatively.
28th-Terrible corner call for LA. Looks like they're going to get all the calls, as, sadly, expected.
30th-Neither team showing much in the attack, basically back and forth in the midfield so far.
32nd-Andy with a long shot, misses quite wide, but at least he's going for goal.
34th-RSL losing basically every header, that could become an issue sooner rather than later.
36th-Terrible transition defense by RSL, Magee misses an open shot JUST wide.
37th-RSL has been trying to push forward but looks totally impotent in the final 3rd. Not even getting chances, too many turnovers.
41st-RSL's terrible defending finally kills them. Open Beckham to open Donovan to open Magee, goal.
42nd-RSL looks done. This looks like RSL defense circa 2005.
44th-Salt Lake obviously missing Javi, team looking lost in the final third.
45th +-Borchers gets a head to it but right to Ricketts.
45th +2-Yura forced to rush a shot in the box, puts it 40 feet high. Hate to say it, especially since he's scored some clutch goals in his day, but I will not miss him and his absolutely atrocious finishing.
Halftime-Defense, especially the outside backs, looks terrible. Midfield forcing too much and turning it over way too much. LA sitting back and waiting for the counter and RSL can't break it. Kreis being outcoached and the team sorely misses Javi. Both forwards look pretty useless, especially Yura, who has provided nothing positive. This is going to take an even better effort than we saw after going down 2-0 at Columbus. With Javi hurt and WillJ sick, I'm not sure RSL's got it in the tank...
46th-Will-J must be too sick to go on, Grabavoy on for him at half. 1 sub left-yikes!
47th-Findley breaks free, bad touch and unable to get onto it well. Robbie, Ricketts, and Omar Gonzalez collide. Robbie and Ricketts hurt.
52nd-Finally back to action, everyone still in.
54th-Getting chippy. Hope the Findley play wasn't the best look RSL is going to get.
58th-Free kick LA, just outside the box just off center. Douchecut Dave to take it. Hits the wall.
60th-Yura takes too long to shoot, possible PK, somehow a call on RSL. Ref's paycheck obviously written in LA.
62nd-RSL player literally thrown to the ground. No card from referee LA Joe. Apparently armed robbery is the only way the Gals will get a card.
64th-Scramble in the box, ball falls to Robbie Findley, goal RSL. Hell yes! Back in this!
66th-Ricketts' hurt hand comes back to get him, he's subbed out.
69th-Momentum with RSL right now. Need to capitalize while we can.
71st-Beckerman is a man among boys out there. Starts an RSL break, Ned with a beautiful ball to Yura who again blows it, this time with a shot about 20 feet high. Damn...
74th-Russell with a turnover reminiscent of the Columbus game. This time he recovers and shoves Landycakes off the ball.
75th-RSL takes Yura out for the last time, Espi in. I hate to see the last sub already, but Yura was worse than awful tonight.
80th-Former Red Chris Klein in for the Gals.
85th-RSL leaving Douchecut Dave wide open. LA pushing for the game winner.
87th-Game opening up, if there's as much injury time as there should be, we could have a game winner in regulation. Gonzalez hurt now...
90th-7 minutes of injury time. Espi playing terribly, puts a cross into the side netting.
90+7th-Andy Williams slips in the box and a golden chance goes unused.
End of Regulation-RSL a different team in the 2nd half. This one could go either way, but LA having a sub left works in their favor. Unfortunately, recent history suggests LA wins this, having put 2 on Houston in overtime in the Western Conference Final, while RSL could only go 0-0. PKs have to favor any team with Nick Rimando in net, so if we get there I like our chances.
98th-Findley a heartbreaker into the side netting.
101st-Mathis with a free kick just outside the box, again into the side netting. RSL having the better of it, but nothing to show for it. RSL wasting too many attacks with long shots.
Extra Time Halftime-RSL wasting too many chances. Mathis with a nice look a few seconds ago but put it right into the one defender, LA with a counter attack but the defense (barely) holds. RSL needs to put one of these away, even with Rimando in goal, it's not a positive to face the likes of Donovan and Beckham in PKs.
107th-Espi open in the box decides to pass not shoot. SHOOT THE DAMN BALL!
110th-RSL finally gets a call. Foul on Klein trying to win a header over Wingert in the RSL box.
120th-1 minute injury time...
120+1-Clint with a gorgeous ball to Andy wide open in front of goal, but his legs refuse to work and the chance goes begging. Andy collapses on the field in disgust, he's exhausted. And off to PKs we go!
End of play-RSL facing a backup keeper but LA has Donovan, Beckham, Klein, etc. Anyone's game, but you like our chances.
PKs-Beckham limping but totally sends Nick the wrong way. Goal.
Mathis nails it. 1-1.
Berhalter?! Inside side netting. Perfect shot. 2-1.
Findley up, big time pressure. Left upper 90. Gorgeous. 2-2.
Kirovski now. Rimando time? Yes, indeedy! 2-2.
Kyle right to Saunders. Craptastic. Still 2-2.
Landycakes, you know he'll score. OH MY GOD, LANDON OVER THE BAR! HOLY SHITBALLS! 2-2.
Grabbing-boys bottom corner. 3-2 RSL!
Magee HAS to score... And does... 3-3.
Andy Williams FTW. This will be super sweet if he wins it... Poor shot, weakly dribbled to Saunders. 3-3.
Klein scores. 4-3 LA.
Wingert our last chance... Passes into the back of the net. 4-4.
Edson Buddle, can Nick take him? Yes! 4-4.
Now Robbie Russell to win. Knock on wood! YES! RSL IS YOUR MLS CHAMPION!!!
9th minute-Defense looking a bit shaky. Donovan gets the ball in the box but is too slow with it. Play develops into a pretty clear header for Buddle, luckily put wide.
11th-Javi wastes a free kick straight on about 45 yds out, puts it directly over the end line.
12th-Beckham has the worst hairdo ever. Worse than a mullet. Gonna call it "the douchecut" as it is, indeed, quite douchy.
17th-Javi looks hurt after Beckham chops his legs out from under him. Announcer says "I didn't see a foul there." Makes me think that if you're going to commentate a game you should probably actually watch the game.
19th-Sounds like a knee injury for Javi, but he's going to come back on, at least for a while.
20th-Yura beats his man and then finds a new creative way to blow it by falling down. Javi about done, Cleetus going to come on for him.
22nd-Javi crying as he comes off, my wife feels really bad for him (understandably so). She thinks it sucks for him that he has to go out once he makes it all the way to the final.
25th-Findley wide open run, but called offside. Looked very borderline, looks like the AR are calling this (too) conservatively.
28th-Terrible corner call for LA. Looks like they're going to get all the calls, as, sadly, expected.
30th-Neither team showing much in the attack, basically back and forth in the midfield so far.
32nd-Andy with a long shot, misses quite wide, but at least he's going for goal.
34th-RSL losing basically every header, that could become an issue sooner rather than later.
36th-Terrible transition defense by RSL, Magee misses an open shot JUST wide.
37th-RSL has been trying to push forward but looks totally impotent in the final 3rd. Not even getting chances, too many turnovers.
41st-RSL's terrible defending finally kills them. Open Beckham to open Donovan to open Magee, goal.
42nd-RSL looks done. This looks like RSL defense circa 2005.
44th-Salt Lake obviously missing Javi, team looking lost in the final third.
45th +-Borchers gets a head to it but right to Ricketts.
45th +2-Yura forced to rush a shot in the box, puts it 40 feet high. Hate to say it, especially since he's scored some clutch goals in his day, but I will not miss him and his absolutely atrocious finishing.
Halftime-Defense, especially the outside backs, looks terrible. Midfield forcing too much and turning it over way too much. LA sitting back and waiting for the counter and RSL can't break it. Kreis being outcoached and the team sorely misses Javi. Both forwards look pretty useless, especially Yura, who has provided nothing positive. This is going to take an even better effort than we saw after going down 2-0 at Columbus. With Javi hurt and WillJ sick, I'm not sure RSL's got it in the tank...
46th-Will-J must be too sick to go on, Grabavoy on for him at half. 1 sub left-yikes!
47th-Findley breaks free, bad touch and unable to get onto it well. Robbie, Ricketts, and Omar Gonzalez collide. Robbie and Ricketts hurt.
52nd-Finally back to action, everyone still in.
54th-Getting chippy. Hope the Findley play wasn't the best look RSL is going to get.
58th-Free kick LA, just outside the box just off center. Douchecut Dave to take it. Hits the wall.
60th-Yura takes too long to shoot, possible PK, somehow a call on RSL. Ref's paycheck obviously written in LA.
62nd-RSL player literally thrown to the ground. No card from referee LA Joe. Apparently armed robbery is the only way the Gals will get a card.
64th-Scramble in the box, ball falls to Robbie Findley, goal RSL. Hell yes! Back in this!
66th-Ricketts' hurt hand comes back to get him, he's subbed out.
69th-Momentum with RSL right now. Need to capitalize while we can.
71st-Beckerman is a man among boys out there. Starts an RSL break, Ned with a beautiful ball to Yura who again blows it, this time with a shot about 20 feet high. Damn...
74th-Russell with a turnover reminiscent of the Columbus game. This time he recovers and shoves Landycakes off the ball.
75th-RSL takes Yura out for the last time, Espi in. I hate to see the last sub already, but Yura was worse than awful tonight.
80th-Former Red Chris Klein in for the Gals.
85th-RSL leaving Douchecut Dave wide open. LA pushing for the game winner.
87th-Game opening up, if there's as much injury time as there should be, we could have a game winner in regulation. Gonzalez hurt now...
90th-7 minutes of injury time. Espi playing terribly, puts a cross into the side netting.
90+7th-Andy Williams slips in the box and a golden chance goes unused.
End of Regulation-RSL a different team in the 2nd half. This one could go either way, but LA having a sub left works in their favor. Unfortunately, recent history suggests LA wins this, having put 2 on Houston in overtime in the Western Conference Final, while RSL could only go 0-0. PKs have to favor any team with Nick Rimando in net, so if we get there I like our chances.
98th-Findley a heartbreaker into the side netting.
101st-Mathis with a free kick just outside the box, again into the side netting. RSL having the better of it, but nothing to show for it. RSL wasting too many attacks with long shots.
Extra Time Halftime-RSL wasting too many chances. Mathis with a nice look a few seconds ago but put it right into the one defender, LA with a counter attack but the defense (barely) holds. RSL needs to put one of these away, even with Rimando in goal, it's not a positive to face the likes of Donovan and Beckham in PKs.
107th-Espi open in the box decides to pass not shoot. SHOOT THE DAMN BALL!
110th-RSL finally gets a call. Foul on Klein trying to win a header over Wingert in the RSL box.
120th-1 minute injury time...
120+1-Clint with a gorgeous ball to Andy wide open in front of goal, but his legs refuse to work and the chance goes begging. Andy collapses on the field in disgust, he's exhausted. And off to PKs we go!
End of play-RSL facing a backup keeper but LA has Donovan, Beckham, Klein, etc. Anyone's game, but you like our chances.
PKs-Beckham limping but totally sends Nick the wrong way. Goal.
Mathis nails it. 1-1.
Berhalter?! Inside side netting. Perfect shot. 2-1.
Findley up, big time pressure. Left upper 90. Gorgeous. 2-2.
Kirovski now. Rimando time? Yes, indeedy! 2-2.
Kyle right to Saunders. Craptastic. Still 2-2.
Landycakes, you know he'll score. OH MY GOD, LANDON OVER THE BAR! HOLY SHITBALLS! 2-2.
Grabbing-boys bottom corner. 3-2 RSL!
Magee HAS to score... And does... 3-3.
Andy Williams FTW. This will be super sweet if he wins it... Poor shot, weakly dribbled to Saunders. 3-3.
Klein scores. 4-3 LA.
Wingert our last chance... Passes into the back of the net. 4-4.
Edson Buddle, can Nick take him? Yes! 4-4.
Now Robbie Russell to win. Knock on wood! YES! RSL IS YOUR MLS CHAMPION!!!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Do You Believe In Miracles? YES! Pt. 2
OK, so maybe it's not a bunch of college kids defeating the Soviet wrecking crew in hockey, but it was still a HUGE win, especially for a team that has struggled so mightily on the road. I'm still giddy about the game so not much for commentary, but I do want to mention what a big difference it makes when the midfield shows up (compare this game to game 1 and you'll see what I mean). Anyway, on to the grades!
Player Grades:
Nick Rimando-7 Possibly could have had the 1st goal, although not totally his fault. Otherwise stellar.
Robbie Russell-3 Only real weak link on the night. Really bad, 2nd goal is on him.
Chris Wingert-6 OK game for Chris. Still not on 2008 season form, but not bad.
Nat Borchers-7 Steady game for Nat.
Jamison Olave-7 Was it a penalty or no? Wasn't given so he stays at 7.
Andy Williams-8 Was an absolute animal in the first half. Really nice to see Andy score to lock it up after the year he's had!
(Jean Alexandre 91+)- Not on the field long enough to get a rating
Kyle Beckerman-7 Solid most of the night and, most importantly, didn't get a 2nd yellow so he's available for the conf. final.
Javier Morales-8 Finally looked like '08 Javi.
(Clint Mathis 82)-6 Not much of a chance to do a lot as the Crew were in desperation mode when he came on.
Will Johnson-7 As always, extremely active.
Robbie Findley-7 Was a little worried the pressure would get to him on the PK but he calmly put it away.
Fabian Espindola-7 Earned the PK that put RSL on top for good.
(Yura Movsisyan 65)-6 Solid, but like Mathis, got caught up in the Crew's desperate attacks.
Coach grade (Kreis)-7 Not sure how much was him and how much was the team just doing it themselves, but the squad kept motivated after going down 2-0, which is a complete unknown for an RSL team on the road.
Ref grade (Toledo)-4 As usual, a terrible game for Toledo. Missed some big calls for the Crew and called way too many fouls on RSL that he didn't call the other way.
RSL Man of the Match-Andy Williams
What can I say? The guy looked like a world beater for much of this one. The goal was just icing on the cake.
Assclown of the Match-Frankie Hejduk
Normally I'm a Hejduk guy, but his incessant whining brings his AOTM, just beating out teammate Alejandro Moreno who put on the biggest show of flopping this side of Blanco.
Player Grades:
Nick Rimando-7 Possibly could have had the 1st goal, although not totally his fault. Otherwise stellar.
Robbie Russell-3 Only real weak link on the night. Really bad, 2nd goal is on him.
Chris Wingert-6 OK game for Chris. Still not on 2008 season form, but not bad.
Nat Borchers-7 Steady game for Nat.
Jamison Olave-7 Was it a penalty or no? Wasn't given so he stays at 7.
Andy Williams-8 Was an absolute animal in the first half. Really nice to see Andy score to lock it up after the year he's had!
(Jean Alexandre 91+)- Not on the field long enough to get a rating
Kyle Beckerman-7 Solid most of the night and, most importantly, didn't get a 2nd yellow so he's available for the conf. final.
Javier Morales-8 Finally looked like '08 Javi.
(Clint Mathis 82)-6 Not much of a chance to do a lot as the Crew were in desperation mode when he came on.
Will Johnson-7 As always, extremely active.
Robbie Findley-7 Was a little worried the pressure would get to him on the PK but he calmly put it away.
Fabian Espindola-7 Earned the PK that put RSL on top for good.
(Yura Movsisyan 65)-6 Solid, but like Mathis, got caught up in the Crew's desperate attacks.
Coach grade (Kreis)-7 Not sure how much was him and how much was the team just doing it themselves, but the squad kept motivated after going down 2-0, which is a complete unknown for an RSL team on the road.
Ref grade (Toledo)-4 As usual, a terrible game for Toledo. Missed some big calls for the Crew and called way too many fouls on RSL that he didn't call the other way.
RSL Man of the Match-Andy Williams
What can I say? The guy looked like a world beater for much of this one. The goal was just icing on the cake.
Assclown of the Match-Frankie Hejduk
Normally I'm a Hejduk guy, but his incessant whining brings his AOTM, just beating out teammate Alejandro Moreno who put on the biggest show of flopping this side of Blanco.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
MLS Playoffs 2009: Game 1 vs. Columbus
First off, congrats to RSL for pulling off a near-miracle and making it to the playoffs. However, once you're there, can you do anything with it? The reds were out to do just that over the weekend.
It was a gorgeous Saturday afternoon, and with it being Halloween, there were plenty of costumes to gawk at. On a related topic, have you stopped at gawked at the total morons bemoaning the loss of freedom of religion to the left-wing gay conspiracy (led by President Obama, of course) just outside of the stadium? It is truly a testament to America's freedom of speech that such lunacy is allowed in public. But I digress. Back to the game. Realistically, RSL needed an effort much like the 4-1 shellacking they put on the Crew at the River earlier this season to give themselves the best chance to get to the Eastern Conference Final (note to MLS: fix the screwy playoff system. NOW!). Unfortunately, some extremely tenative and mediocre play through the midfield made this impossible, but after working out the jitters RSL was able to control the game for the most part. However, the mids weren't really able to work the balls up front in any sort of dangerous position for most of the game, limiting RSL's chances. And after Findley missed a shot into the side netting in the 83rd, I think most fans were thinking we were looking at a 0-0 tie on the day. And that's what made the goal in the 88th that much sweeter. Yura took a quick throw in from WillJ that broke him free from the defense and put a pin-point pass into the box that Robbie toed home for the game-winner. And the place went, for lack of a better term (cover your eyes, children) apeshit. It was a combo of being excited for the goal and just total relief that RSL had FINALLY broken the ice. So although it's not the multi-goal lead that I (and I'm sure RSL themselves) would have liked, it's at least a lead. Well done RSL, and good luck in Ohio. Bring home the Cup boys!
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-7 Not a lot to do
Chris Wingert-7 Steady
Nat Borchers-7 Solid as always in the back
Jamison Olave-7 Kept his head straight and had a nice game
Tony Beltran-7 Very active, looked good
(Robbie Russell 79)-6 Not a lot of time to put his mark on the match
Andy Williams-5 Like the rest of the midfield, too may turnovers
Kyle Beckerman-5 Meh
Javier Morales-3 Just awful. Passed consistently to CLB, no defense, no hustle.
(Clint Mathis 75)-6 Nothing special but anything was better than Javi Saturday
Will Johnson-6 Probably the best in midfield on a bad day for MFs
Robbie Findley-6 Scored a goal but was a bit rough most of the night
Fabian Espindola-5 Never really read any of Robbie's runs right
(Yura Movsisyan 65)-9 I'm a Yura-hater for the most part, but he was spectacular and RSL was a different team with him on the field Saturday.
Coach grade (Kreis)-8 Usually his subs are inexplicable to me, but these were good (recognizing that Javi was killing us was a good move) and his team pressed to get a W.
Ref grade (Geiger)-5 Inconsistent on calls as per usual in MLS.
RSL Man of the Match-Yura Movsisyan
Left Rio Tinto with a great performance that hopefully will get RSL one step closer to MLS Cup 09.
Assclown of the Match-Frankie Hejduk
Went in 2-footed on an RSL man (can't remember which off the top of my head) that I have often seen a red given for. Wasn't even given a card, so you'd think he'd be happy right? Oh no, he bitched for 10 minutes. Assclown.
Quote of the Day-"The Italian pedophile" in reference to Columbus's Gino Padula, who does, in fact, look like an Italian pedophile. Good job guys standing behind me in section 1!
It was a gorgeous Saturday afternoon, and with it being Halloween, there were plenty of costumes to gawk at. On a related topic, have you stopped at gawked at the total morons bemoaning the loss of freedom of religion to the left-wing gay conspiracy (led by President Obama, of course) just outside of the stadium? It is truly a testament to America's freedom of speech that such lunacy is allowed in public. But I digress. Back to the game. Realistically, RSL needed an effort much like the 4-1 shellacking they put on the Crew at the River earlier this season to give themselves the best chance to get to the Eastern Conference Final (note to MLS: fix the screwy playoff system. NOW!). Unfortunately, some extremely tenative and mediocre play through the midfield made this impossible, but after working out the jitters RSL was able to control the game for the most part. However, the mids weren't really able to work the balls up front in any sort of dangerous position for most of the game, limiting RSL's chances. And after Findley missed a shot into the side netting in the 83rd, I think most fans were thinking we were looking at a 0-0 tie on the day. And that's what made the goal in the 88th that much sweeter. Yura took a quick throw in from WillJ that broke him free from the defense and put a pin-point pass into the box that Robbie toed home for the game-winner. And the place went, for lack of a better term (cover your eyes, children) apeshit. It was a combo of being excited for the goal and just total relief that RSL had FINALLY broken the ice. So although it's not the multi-goal lead that I (and I'm sure RSL themselves) would have liked, it's at least a lead. Well done RSL, and good luck in Ohio. Bring home the Cup boys!
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-7 Not a lot to do
Chris Wingert-7 Steady
Nat Borchers-7 Solid as always in the back
Jamison Olave-7 Kept his head straight and had a nice game
Tony Beltran-7 Very active, looked good
(Robbie Russell 79)-6 Not a lot of time to put his mark on the match
Andy Williams-5 Like the rest of the midfield, too may turnovers
Kyle Beckerman-5 Meh
Javier Morales-3 Just awful. Passed consistently to CLB, no defense, no hustle.
(Clint Mathis 75)-6 Nothing special but anything was better than Javi Saturday
Will Johnson-6 Probably the best in midfield on a bad day for MFs
Robbie Findley-6 Scored a goal but was a bit rough most of the night
Fabian Espindola-5 Never really read any of Robbie's runs right
(Yura Movsisyan 65)-9 I'm a Yura-hater for the most part, but he was spectacular and RSL was a different team with him on the field Saturday.
Coach grade (Kreis)-8 Usually his subs are inexplicable to me, but these were good (recognizing that Javi was killing us was a good move) and his team pressed to get a W.
Ref grade (Geiger)-5 Inconsistent on calls as per usual in MLS.
RSL Man of the Match-Yura Movsisyan
Left Rio Tinto with a great performance that hopefully will get RSL one step closer to MLS Cup 09.
Assclown of the Match-Frankie Hejduk
Went in 2-footed on an RSL man (can't remember which off the top of my head) that I have often seen a red given for. Wasn't even given a card, so you'd think he'd be happy right? Oh no, he bitched for 10 minutes. Assclown.
Quote of the Day-"The Italian pedophile" in reference to Columbus's Gino Padula, who does, in fact, look like an Italian pedophile. Good job guys standing behind me in section 1!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
29 Down, 1 To Go
Blah. Another poor road performance and RSL is now more likely to miss the playoffs than make them. Again. In a league that still has more teams qualify for the playoffs than miss them, if RSL again crashes and burns again this season it'll be 1 for 5 on making the playoffs. Let that sink in: in a system that makes it harder to miss the playoffs than make them, RSL can only get there 20% of the time. There is something VERY wrong with that. But I digress. Hopefully, with a little luck and a lovely hometown thrashing of the Crapids, RSL can sneak into the playoffs on the final day once again. It'll be cold and dark, yes, but I encourage EVERYONE to head out to the game. If you need a little more incentive (which, really? You can't get up for the RMC finale?), 101.9 The End is doing a $10 ticket promotion on their web site (details here), and they are decent seats. So come on out and help RSL pull out their 24.9% chance of making the playoffs (according to the awesome Sports Club Stats)! Go RSL!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
2009 Game 24: RSL vs. Wizards: The Wiz Whizz On Their Chances
Wow. Been a long time since an update, I apologize. Work has been crazy lately, but hopefully life is getting back to normal. First, a quick shoutout to Clint Mathis for being overwhelmingly voted the Royal Review Readers' Player of the 1st Half of the Season. Well done! Anyway, I'm keeping this one short, both to ease my way back in and because I doubt anyone will even see this after such a long break! Here's the grades from RSL's gritty road win (with only 10 men for a majority of the match) over a KC squad that not only squandered numerous chances in front of goal, but also possibly its chances for a playoff berth.
Player grades:
Chris Seitz-9 Showed why he's been so highly regarded. Would've taken a world class strike to beat him.
Chris Wingert-8 Very solid, especially in the second half.
Nat Borchers-8 Along with the rest of the defense, came alive in the 2nd.
Jamison Olave-8 Nearly a 9, he was a beast all night.
Robbie Russell-8 Solid defensively and got an assist.
Kyle Beckerman-6 Decent but not spectacular.
Andy Williams-7 Nice assist, really came alive after it.
(Jean Alexandre 46)-6 A couple big tackles, not at all out of place.
Ned Grabavoy-4 Red card was harsh, but he got it and did nothing before it.
Raphael Cox-5 One too many turnovers, but I like his game and if he figures out how to play under control, look out!
(Fabian Espindola 72)-7 Nice energy off the bench and a huge save late.
Pablo Campos-7 Inconsistent, but put away his best chance and that's what you ask for.
(Robbie Findley 56)-6 Not great offensively but contributed well to the team defensive strategy.
Clint Mathis-7 Nice game for Cleetus.
Coach grade (Kreis)-9 Yes, RSL got a lot of help from some atrocious KC finishing, but his adjustments at half and the subs all seemed to work and RSL earned a very unlikely road win.
Ref grade (Geiger)-4 Harsh red card combined with amazingly inconsistent calls earns him a low grade.
RSL MAN OF THE MATCH - Chris Seitz
Earned his first shutout (and I do mean earned) by combining with the defense to hold the Wiz (That's funny! Read it again and you'll get it).
Douchebag of the Day - Davy Arnaud
A bit too whiny for my taste. Shut your pie hole and play some ball!
Player grades:
Chris Seitz-9 Showed why he's been so highly regarded. Would've taken a world class strike to beat him.
Chris Wingert-8 Very solid, especially in the second half.
Nat Borchers-8 Along with the rest of the defense, came alive in the 2nd.
Jamison Olave-8 Nearly a 9, he was a beast all night.
Robbie Russell-8 Solid defensively and got an assist.
Kyle Beckerman-6 Decent but not spectacular.
Andy Williams-7 Nice assist, really came alive after it.
(Jean Alexandre 46)-6 A couple big tackles, not at all out of place.
Ned Grabavoy-4 Red card was harsh, but he got it and did nothing before it.
Raphael Cox-5 One too many turnovers, but I like his game and if he figures out how to play under control, look out!
(Fabian Espindola 72)-7 Nice energy off the bench and a huge save late.
Pablo Campos-7 Inconsistent, but put away his best chance and that's what you ask for.
(Robbie Findley 56)-6 Not great offensively but contributed well to the team defensive strategy.
Clint Mathis-7 Nice game for Cleetus.
Coach grade (Kreis)-9 Yes, RSL got a lot of help from some atrocious KC finishing, but his adjustments at half and the subs all seemed to work and RSL earned a very unlikely road win.
Ref grade (Geiger)-4 Harsh red card combined with amazingly inconsistent calls earns him a low grade.
RSL MAN OF THE MATCH - Chris Seitz
Earned his first shutout (and I do mean earned) by combining with the defense to hold the Wiz (That's funny! Read it again and you'll get it).
Douchebag of the Day - Davy Arnaud
A bit too whiny for my taste. Shut your pie hole and play some ball!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
VOTE!!!
Everyone please vote in my new poll (on the right, in the sidebar) for your player of the 1st half of the 2009 season. I have my own ideas, but I'm curious who everyone out in RSL-land thinks has been the cream of the crop so far this year. Results will be posted once the poll closes. Thanks again for coming by and thanks for voting!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Yura's Staying
Just got a note on facebook from RSL saying that Garth announced today that Yura is staying for the remainder of the season. My reaction is: Why? He obviously doesn't want to be here (see some of his quotes about the move from recent articles) and RSL/MLS now lose him after the season for nothing. If Randers offered a ham sandwich to let him go early the RSL FO should've jumped on it. Always get something (cash) instead of nothing (no cash), especially in a down economy. Blah (although, did I really expect anything less?).
Sunday, June 28, 2009
2009 Game 15: Toronto FC vs. RSL: Where has this team been?
I finally got out to my first game this season (with a little help from KALL's $7 ticket promotion), but I couldn't have picked a better one to go to. RSL put together one of its more complete games of the year in taking apart a Toronto team that came in on short rest.
RSL controlled the flow of this game, for the most part, and after going up 2-0, kept Toronto from ever really looking dangerous. Yura put together one of his best outings of the year and we had a nice cameo by Ian Joy late. Overall, some solid play by the home squad, and a good, and necessary, win.
First half grade: A-
A good first half but not spectacular. The second half saw a few players step it up (most notably Ned Grabavoy) and really lead RSL to the finish. Two goals, but the defense was not perfect and Toronto had a few chances.
Second half grade: A
Nicely done by RSL in the second, scoring the final goal, but more importantly, shutting down the Toronto attack completely.
Game grade: A
A good, solid win at home. Hopefully RSL can build on this without getting the big heads that killed the team after the 6-0 thrashing of the NERds.
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-7 Didn't have a lot to do, but made the saves when necessary.
Chris Wingert-6 Also didn't have a lot to do, but the attacks never seemed to come from his side.
Nat Borchers-6 Passing was iffy at times, but got the job done.
Robbie Russell-7 Nice job filling in for Olave.
Tony Beltran-6 Poor first half, but redeemed himself with a solid 2nd.
(Ian Joy 83)-6 Nice to see Ian back on the field.
Kyle Beckerman-6 Almost a 5, scored a goal, but missed 2 or 3 absolute sitters.
(Tino Nunez 91+)-NA Didn't have enough time for a true rating.
Ned Grabavoy-7 Bad first half, but astounding in the 2nd. Nice assist on the 3rd score.
Javier Morales-6 OK game, nothing too great.
(Andy Williams 75)-6 Nice to see Andy getting some run.
Clint Mathis-7 Hard to argue a goal and an assist.
Yura Movsisyan-7 Nice, composed finish on the goal (for once). Very active, but had a bad case of ballhogacitis.
Fabian Espindola-4 The only weak link on the night. Just awful. Absolutely no effort and zero movement off the ball. Probably could have had 2 goals if he'd followed up on some plays.
Coach grade (Kreis)-7 I'd have started Andy over Ned, but Ned proved me wrong on that one in the 2nd. A 3-0 win is hard to criticize, but I'm still shocked Espi got a full 90 with that sort of (non-)effort.
Ref grade (Jurisevic)-5 The usual inconsistent MLS ref effort.
RSL Man of the Match: Yura Movsisyan
Yes, he made some mistakes, but got himself into good spaces and looked good on the goal.
Douchebag of the Day: Amado Guevara
After his teammate delivered a late, crushing tackle and picked up an obvious yellow, what does Guevara do? Complain for about 5 minutes. Seriously, it was one of the easiest yellow calls you'll ever see and Guevara whined like someone had punched his mother. Grow up, dude.
And now, some low-quality pictures from last night's game courtesy of my crappy camera phone:
Setting up the formation on a goal kick.
For those who haven't yet seen it, the unfortunate aftermath of the Supporter's end stage debacle
And now, a series I like to call, simply, "Sunset Over Rio Tinto"
Mathis sends in a cross as the sun sets
And then, the sunset truly hits...
RSL controlled the flow of this game, for the most part, and after going up 2-0, kept Toronto from ever really looking dangerous. Yura put together one of his best outings of the year and we had a nice cameo by Ian Joy late. Overall, some solid play by the home squad, and a good, and necessary, win.
First half grade: A-
A good first half but not spectacular. The second half saw a few players step it up (most notably Ned Grabavoy) and really lead RSL to the finish. Two goals, but the defense was not perfect and Toronto had a few chances.
Second half grade: A
Nicely done by RSL in the second, scoring the final goal, but more importantly, shutting down the Toronto attack completely.
Game grade: A
A good, solid win at home. Hopefully RSL can build on this without getting the big heads that killed the team after the 6-0 thrashing of the NERds.
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-7 Didn't have a lot to do, but made the saves when necessary.
Chris Wingert-6 Also didn't have a lot to do, but the attacks never seemed to come from his side.
Nat Borchers-6 Passing was iffy at times, but got the job done.
Robbie Russell-7 Nice job filling in for Olave.
Tony Beltran-6 Poor first half, but redeemed himself with a solid 2nd.
(Ian Joy 83)-6 Nice to see Ian back on the field.
Kyle Beckerman-6 Almost a 5, scored a goal, but missed 2 or 3 absolute sitters.
(Tino Nunez 91+)-NA Didn't have enough time for a true rating.
Ned Grabavoy-7 Bad first half, but astounding in the 2nd. Nice assist on the 3rd score.
Javier Morales-6 OK game, nothing too great.
(Andy Williams 75)-6 Nice to see Andy getting some run.
Clint Mathis-7 Hard to argue a goal and an assist.
Yura Movsisyan-7 Nice, composed finish on the goal (for once). Very active, but had a bad case of ballhogacitis.
Fabian Espindola-4 The only weak link on the night. Just awful. Absolutely no effort and zero movement off the ball. Probably could have had 2 goals if he'd followed up on some plays.
Coach grade (Kreis)-7 I'd have started Andy over Ned, but Ned proved me wrong on that one in the 2nd. A 3-0 win is hard to criticize, but I'm still shocked Espi got a full 90 with that sort of (non-)effort.
Ref grade (Jurisevic)-5 The usual inconsistent MLS ref effort.
RSL Man of the Match: Yura Movsisyan
Yes, he made some mistakes, but got himself into good spaces and looked good on the goal.
Douchebag of the Day: Amado Guevara
After his teammate delivered a late, crushing tackle and picked up an obvious yellow, what does Guevara do? Complain for about 5 minutes. Seriously, it was one of the easiest yellow calls you'll ever see and Guevara whined like someone had punched his mother. Grow up, dude.
And now, some low-quality pictures from last night's game courtesy of my crappy camera phone:
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Toronto vs. Real Salt Lake GAMEDAY
Trying to get my sidebars somewhat up to date and I thought, "What the hell? Let's throw a prediction or two out there." So here goes:
Tonight:
Those dirty, dirty Canucks (ha ha, sorry I have a Canadian friend and it has become habit) 1 - Real Salt Lake 2
Salt Lake at home against a jet-lagged, 2nd game in 3 days Toronto team at altitude? I like our chances.
Tomorrow:
Brazil 2 - USA 1
As much as I want the US to win (and there certainly is a chance they could pull it off), I don't see it happening. Especially with Bradley out with one of the worst (if not THE worst) straight reds I've ever seen. Plus, although related, judging by the calls from rest of the tournament, I doubt the US will get through the match with 11.
Discuss.
Tonight:
Those dirty, dirty Canucks (ha ha, sorry I have a Canadian friend and it has become habit) 1 - Real Salt Lake 2
Salt Lake at home against a jet-lagged, 2nd game in 3 days Toronto team at altitude? I like our chances.
Tomorrow:
Brazil 2 - USA 1
As much as I want the US to win (and there certainly is a chance they could pull it off), I don't see it happening. Especially with Bradley out with one of the worst (if not THE worst) straight reds I've ever seen. Plus, although related, judging by the calls from rest of the tournament, I doubt the US will get through the match with 11.
Discuss.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
AGAIN
So we've been having computer issues at the ol' homestead once again, meaning I am way WAY behind on everything Review related. I'm going to try and get the site back up to date as soon as possible, but we're a ways out I think. In the meantime, here's my player grades from the latest last minute RSL meltdown...
RSL vs. Houston Grades:
Nick Rimando-8 Saved a (questionable) PK, played well.
Tony Beltran-4 Attacks constantly came from his side, gave way too much space for the tying cross
Nat Borchers-6 Played well until falling asleep on the goal
Jamison Olave-3 Horrific. Played the lazy, careless game he can be known for, then gets tossed for dissent. Well done.
Chris Wingert-6 Meh.
Kyle Beckerman-5 Also asleep at the wheel on the goal.
Will Johnson-6 Active, but not especially useful
Javier Morales-6 Too much time diving, but ok otherwise
Clint Mathis-6 OK but needs to do more
(Tino Nunez 76)-6 Not really given a chance, came in with RSL a man down
Yura Movsisyan-5 Nice on the assist but otherwise useless. Needs to learn to win something in the air (and put a shot on frame and....)
(Ned Grabavoy 82)-6 Not a lot of time to do much.
Fabian Espindola-6 Solid goal, some good effort at times, but needs to impose himself on the game more.
(Robbie Russell 63)-6 Decent in trying to hold off the Houston onslaught.
Coach grade (Kreis)-6 New formation seems to suit team, needs to get Olave a crowbar to help him remove his head from his ass.
Ref grade (Maruffo)-3 Another MLS game that devolved into UFC-lite. Cards were also a bit one-sided and the PK call was a bit weak for my tastes. Plus, a 2 minute water break in the middle of the game? Really?
RSL Man of the Match: Nick Rimando
Singlehandedly kept his team in the game. Earned RSL 1 point as opposed to 0.
Douchebag of the Day: Jamison Olave
You should never, ever, EVER be dumb enough to pick up two straight cards for dissent like that. Dude, take a xanax and back away...
RSL vs. Houston Grades:
Nick Rimando-8 Saved a (questionable) PK, played well.
Tony Beltran-4 Attacks constantly came from his side, gave way too much space for the tying cross
Nat Borchers-6 Played well until falling asleep on the goal
Jamison Olave-3 Horrific. Played the lazy, careless game he can be known for, then gets tossed for dissent. Well done.
Chris Wingert-6 Meh.
Kyle Beckerman-5 Also asleep at the wheel on the goal.
Will Johnson-6 Active, but not especially useful
Javier Morales-6 Too much time diving, but ok otherwise
Clint Mathis-6 OK but needs to do more
(Tino Nunez 76)-6 Not really given a chance, came in with RSL a man down
Yura Movsisyan-5 Nice on the assist but otherwise useless. Needs to learn to win something in the air (and put a shot on frame and....)
(Ned Grabavoy 82)-6 Not a lot of time to do much.
Fabian Espindola-6 Solid goal, some good effort at times, but needs to impose himself on the game more.
(Robbie Russell 63)-6 Decent in trying to hold off the Houston onslaught.
Coach grade (Kreis)-6 New formation seems to suit team, needs to get Olave a crowbar to help him remove his head from his ass.
Ref grade (Maruffo)-3 Another MLS game that devolved into UFC-lite. Cards were also a bit one-sided and the PK call was a bit weak for my tastes. Plus, a 2 minute water break in the middle of the game? Really?
RSL Man of the Match: Nick Rimando
Singlehandedly kept his team in the game. Earned RSL 1 point as opposed to 0.
Douchebag of the Day: Jamison Olave
You should never, ever, EVER be dumb enough to pick up two straight cards for dissent like that. Dude, take a xanax and back away...
Sunday, May 31, 2009
2009 Game 11: RSL vs. San Jose: Officially the worst team in the league?
Well, are we? It sure looks that way after RSL was thoroughly dismantled by a previously 1-7-2 Quakes team. Yes, that's one win. And if not for some heroics by Big Nick Rimando (with a little help from Bulldozer Olave), this game could have ended up just the opposite of the 6-0 shellacking that "Twilight Zone-RSL" put on the NERds. Since I don't even want to think about this one anymore, here's the grades:
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-8 Played big despite the d letting him down over and again
Chris Wingert-6 Decent game, not great
Nat Borchers-4 Probably Nat's worst overall game for RSL
Jamison Olave-7 Kept RSL in this as much as he could
Robbie Russell-3 Beaten over and over and over and over again
Will Johnson-5 Very up and down
Kyle Beckerman-4 Every pass went to no one
Javier Morales-4 RSL needs a LOT more out of their playmaker
Ned Grabavoy-4 Did nothing, then team improved instantly when he went off
(Clint Mathis 64)-6 Solid effort
Luis Miguel Escalada-4 Was he in the game?
(Robbie Findley 55)-8 Big goal; one of the few to give a real effort
Fabian Espindola-5 Try being ONside once in a while Espi!
(Yura Movsisyan 56)-5 Useless as usual
Coach grade (Kreis): 3
Lineup was terrible (seriously, why does Findley keep starting on the bench? He's one of the league's leading scorers!) and subs were too late and a bit over-reactionary. Plus, never seemed to do anything to react to the pressure his team was under. Poor job.
Ref grade (Stott): 2
Quite possibly the worst reffed soccer game I've ever seen. One sided to an obvious degree for the home team, but that wasn't the worst part, as bad calls (and no-calls) flew both ways. Let the game turn into a low-rent UFC match and didn't seem to care. Threw yellows for one thing and then let the same thing go minutes later. Just painful to watch. If I wasn't trying to get away from awarding DotD to refs, he would've won it by himself in a landslide (however, that doesn't mean he gets off scott free).
RSL Man of the Match-Nick Rimando
Yes, he let in two, but with the defense playing like it did, that is basically a shutout.
Douchebag of the Day-The SJ broadcast commentators and the officiating crew
Both guys were complete homers, which is ok to a point, but these guys went into the realm of idiocy. SJ could do no wrong in any situation, while RSL was just there to mug the poor Quakes. The play-by-play guy's complete inaccuracy in his retelling of the DCU game was an interesting twist. The mention of Cannon working hard to preserve his shutout, after letting in a goal minutes earlier, was even better. And the mangling of Movsisyan into something approximating Mowsivian? Just icing on the cake. I pity you, San Jose fans, if this is the best they can do for you. As for the refs, well, see above...
In other words, blah.
Player grades:
Nick Rimando-8 Played big despite the d letting him down over and again
Chris Wingert-6 Decent game, not great
Nat Borchers-4 Probably Nat's worst overall game for RSL
Jamison Olave-7 Kept RSL in this as much as he could
Robbie Russell-3 Beaten over and over and over and over again
Will Johnson-5 Very up and down
Kyle Beckerman-4 Every pass went to no one
Javier Morales-4 RSL needs a LOT more out of their playmaker
Ned Grabavoy-4 Did nothing, then team improved instantly when he went off
(Clint Mathis 64)-6 Solid effort
Luis Miguel Escalada-4 Was he in the game?
(Robbie Findley 55)-8 Big goal; one of the few to give a real effort
Fabian Espindola-5 Try being ONside once in a while Espi!
(Yura Movsisyan 56)-5 Useless as usual
Coach grade (Kreis): 3
Lineup was terrible (seriously, why does Findley keep starting on the bench? He's one of the league's leading scorers!) and subs were too late and a bit over-reactionary. Plus, never seemed to do anything to react to the pressure his team was under. Poor job.
Ref grade (Stott): 2
Quite possibly the worst reffed soccer game I've ever seen. One sided to an obvious degree for the home team, but that wasn't the worst part, as bad calls (and no-calls) flew both ways. Let the game turn into a low-rent UFC match and didn't seem to care. Threw yellows for one thing and then let the same thing go minutes later. Just painful to watch. If I wasn't trying to get away from awarding DotD to refs, he would've won it by himself in a landslide (however, that doesn't mean he gets off scott free).
RSL Man of the Match-Nick Rimando
Yes, he let in two, but with the defense playing like it did, that is basically a shutout.
Douchebag of the Day-The SJ broadcast commentators and the officiating crew
Both guys were complete homers, which is ok to a point, but these guys went into the realm of idiocy. SJ could do no wrong in any situation, while RSL was just there to mug the poor Quakes. The play-by-play guy's complete inaccuracy in his retelling of the DCU game was an interesting twist. The mention of Cannon working hard to preserve his shutout, after letting in a goal minutes earlier, was even better. And the mangling of Movsisyan into something approximating Mowsivian? Just icing on the cake. I pity you, San Jose fans, if this is the best they can do for you. As for the refs, well, see above...
In other words, blah.
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