KC's first draft pick from the 2014 Superdraft is no longer with the team. While the team never made an official announcement, Adnan Gabeljic is no longer with KC. The forward from St. Louis has moved on and is now on trial with the Montreal Impact according to the Impact's Twitter account. One has to assume that Peter Schmetz other draft pick that hasn't been signed or released yet is also gone.
In other news, two former players have new teams, Scott Angevine has signed for Sporting Kristina in the Finnish third division according to his Twitter and Khari Stephenson has rejoined the San Jose Earthquakes. Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Peter Schmetz
Scott Sealy
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - No game this week.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Started and played 90 minutes in New England's 1-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Bobby Convey - New York - Started and played 67 minutes in New York's 1-1 draw with Colorado.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 90 minutes, recording an assist in Salt Lake's 3-3 draw with San Jose.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-1 draw with Chicago.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-1 draw with Chicago.
Eddie Johnson - DC - No game this week.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Did not dress in Toronto's 2-1 win over Seattle.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Dressed but did not play in Portland's 1-1 draw with Chicago.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Came off the bench and played 23 minutes in San Jose's 3-3 draw with Salt Lake. Started and played 102 minutes in San Jose's 1-1 draw that they lost 5-4 on PKs.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - No game this week.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
USL
Christian Duke - Oklahoma City (Loan) - Offseason.
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Jon Kempin - Oklahoma City (Loan) - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Mikey Lopez - Orlando (Loan) - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Played in all three games for Baltimore as they lost two games to one to Missouri.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Servette FC - Switzerland - Did not dress in Servette's 2-0 loss to Lugano.
Scott Angevine - Sporting Kristina - Finland - Season has not started.
Vicente Arze - FK Hoverla Uzhhorod - Ukraine - Did not dress in Hoverla's 1-1 draw with Metalist.
Federico Bessone - Millwall - England - Did not dress in Millwall's 0-0 ddraw with Charlton.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Did not dress in Chivas' 1-0 win over Leon.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Dres 2-2 with Irapuato.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Bengaluru's 3-1 win over United.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Did not play in UAI's 4-0 los to Deportivo Merlo.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 3-0 loss to Central. Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 4-0 win over San Juan Jabloteh.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not dress in Deportivo's 1-0 win over Barranquilla.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Out injured.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 64 minutes in Tijuana's 2-1 loss to Cruz Azul. Came off the bench and played 1 minute in Tijuana's 4-2 win over the Galaxy.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring 2 goals in Boavista's 2-1 win over Botafogo.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Azal's 2-1 loss to Neftci.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Did not dress in Middlesbrough's 0-0 draw with Bournemouth.
Igor Kostrov - FC Costuleni - Moldova - Started and played 90 minutes in Costuleni's 2-0 loss to Milsami-Ursidos.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Did not dress in San Martin's 1-1 draw with Universitario.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 2-0 loss to Lugano.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 87 minutes, recording an assist in Spartak's 2-2 draw with Anzhi.
Michal Mravec - Podbeskidzie - Poland - Did not dress in Podbeskidzie's 2-1 loss to Lech Poznan.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Season started 4/6
Pablo Punyed - Stjarnan - Iceland - Did not play in Stjarnan's 1-0 win over IBV.
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) -Started and played 90 minutes in Ross County's 1-0 win over St. Johnstone.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Started and played 76 minutes in Sarajevo's 2-0 win over Mladost Velika Obarska.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Came off the bench and played 3 minutes in Munster's 2-0 win over Heidenheim.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Came off the bench and played 13 minutes in Lara's 0-0 draw with Llaneros de Guanare.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
S.A.S. Thursday After Stats
Graham Zusi picked up his 41st assist in all competitions, breaking his tie with Davy Arnaud for 3rd all time on that list.
Zusi made his 148th appearance in all competitions, breaking his tie with Diego Gutierrez for 15th on the all time list.
Zusi started his 114th game in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Sean Bowers for 18th place on that list.
Zusi made his 148th appearance in all competitions, breaking his tie with Diego Gutierrez for 15th on the all time list.
Zusi started his 114th game in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Sean Bowers for 18th place on that list.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Sporting Embarrassingly Bow Out of the Champions League
KC headed into Estadio Azul with a 1-0 aggregate advantage against Cruz Azul, but were taken apart tonight by a much better Mexican team. Sporting held the lead heading into the break but were thoroughly embarrassed in the second half as they bowed out of the Champion's League.
KC suffered from the Galaxy's defensive disease at the beginning of the game as Joao Rojas cut inside on Josh Gardner, played the ball into the box to Mariano Pavone who turned Kevin Ellis and fired past Eric Kronberg. In the sixth minute, KC should probably have equalized. A cross field ball towards Jacob Peterson was deflected by a Cruz Azul defender but right into the path of Peterson who raced in alone on goal. He fired a shot, but it was right at Jesus Corona who made the save. Cruz Azul continued to pressure and Marco Fabian was incorrectly ruled offside after getting behind Ellis. In the 23rd minute though there was no offside call to rescue KC as Fabian timed his run very well and got behind Ellis. He dribbled into the box and fired a shot that Kronberg got down and saved, but gave upu a rebound right into the middle where Pavone knocked the ball home to make it 2-0 on the night and 2-1 on aggregate in favor of the Mexican side. Cruz Azul continued to pressure and a free header on a corner could have made it 3-0, but it was right at Kronberg who held the ball. KC started to get a little of the ball as the game continued on and in the 43rd won a corner. Graham Zusi played the ball short to Benny Feilhaber who cut inside his defender and then fired a shot that beat Corona to the near post and gave KC the lead on the away goal rule.
Cruz Azul came out in the second half and continued to pressure the game, with the game at altitude it was only a matter of time before tired legs started to take over for KC. In the 55th minute Cruz Azul hit again. Again it was Fabian setting the play up, racing by first half sub Mechack Jerome and squaring into the middle for Pavone who one timed a shot past Kronberg as Ike Opara fell down to make it 3-1 on the night. The pressure continued, especially down KC's right wing as Fabian had his way with Jerome. In the 66th minute Cruz Azul put the game to bed as Fabian again burned Jerome down the line. He cut inside along the end line and as Kronberg came out to commit he laid the ball back. The initial effort was blocked on the line by Matt Besler, but Mauro Formica got the rebound and fired home to make it 4-1 on the night. And four minute later the route was on as Cruz Azul combined well in the midfield leading to Christian Gimenez getting behind KC's defense and firing in a shot off the far post to make it 5-1. KC looked gassed while Cruz Azul looked fresh and had a couple opportunities to make the scoreline worse. In the end, the referee called the game basically right at 90 minutes and KC bowed out of the competition rather embarrassingly. Cruz Azul killed KC down the flanks all night and the altitude finally got to him.
It's not a bad thing to lose to a team like Cruz Azul, who has to be considered the favorites for the tournament, it's how KC ended up losing that's embarrassing. This game will end up in the same breath as the 7-0 loss to Chicago on July 4th, 2001, or the 6-1 loss at Morelia in the 2002 CONCACAF Champions Cup, or the 6-0 loss to Dallas in Curt Onalfo's last match in charge of the club.
Wizards Man of the Match - Benny Feilhaber - Cause he scored the goal, the lone bright spot.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 3, Gardner 3, Opara 2, Besler 3, Ellis 2, Rosell 3, Nagamura 3, Feilhaber 4, Zusi 3, Bieler 3, Peterson 3. Subs Jerome 1, Dwyer 2, Sapong 3
KC suffered from the Galaxy's defensive disease at the beginning of the game as Joao Rojas cut inside on Josh Gardner, played the ball into the box to Mariano Pavone who turned Kevin Ellis and fired past Eric Kronberg. In the sixth minute, KC should probably have equalized. A cross field ball towards Jacob Peterson was deflected by a Cruz Azul defender but right into the path of Peterson who raced in alone on goal. He fired a shot, but it was right at Jesus Corona who made the save. Cruz Azul continued to pressure and Marco Fabian was incorrectly ruled offside after getting behind Ellis. In the 23rd minute though there was no offside call to rescue KC as Fabian timed his run very well and got behind Ellis. He dribbled into the box and fired a shot that Kronberg got down and saved, but gave upu a rebound right into the middle where Pavone knocked the ball home to make it 2-0 on the night and 2-1 on aggregate in favor of the Mexican side. Cruz Azul continued to pressure and a free header on a corner could have made it 3-0, but it was right at Kronberg who held the ball. KC started to get a little of the ball as the game continued on and in the 43rd won a corner. Graham Zusi played the ball short to Benny Feilhaber who cut inside his defender and then fired a shot that beat Corona to the near post and gave KC the lead on the away goal rule.
Cruz Azul came out in the second half and continued to pressure the game, with the game at altitude it was only a matter of time before tired legs started to take over for KC. In the 55th minute Cruz Azul hit again. Again it was Fabian setting the play up, racing by first half sub Mechack Jerome and squaring into the middle for Pavone who one timed a shot past Kronberg as Ike Opara fell down to make it 3-1 on the night. The pressure continued, especially down KC's right wing as Fabian had his way with Jerome. In the 66th minute Cruz Azul put the game to bed as Fabian again burned Jerome down the line. He cut inside along the end line and as Kronberg came out to commit he laid the ball back. The initial effort was blocked on the line by Matt Besler, but Mauro Formica got the rebound and fired home to make it 4-1 on the night. And four minute later the route was on as Cruz Azul combined well in the midfield leading to Christian Gimenez getting behind KC's defense and firing in a shot off the far post to make it 5-1. KC looked gassed while Cruz Azul looked fresh and had a couple opportunities to make the scoreline worse. In the end, the referee called the game basically right at 90 minutes and KC bowed out of the competition rather embarrassingly. Cruz Azul killed KC down the flanks all night and the altitude finally got to him.
It's not a bad thing to lose to a team like Cruz Azul, who has to be considered the favorites for the tournament, it's how KC ended up losing that's embarrassing. This game will end up in the same breath as the 7-0 loss to Chicago on July 4th, 2001, or the 6-1 loss at Morelia in the 2002 CONCACAF Champions Cup, or the 6-0 loss to Dallas in Curt Onalfo's last match in charge of the club.
Wizards Man of the Match - Benny Feilhaber - Cause he scored the goal, the lone bright spot.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 3, Gardner 3, Opara 2, Besler 3, Ellis 2, Rosell 3, Nagamura 3, Feilhaber 4, Zusi 3, Bieler 3, Peterson 3. Subs Jerome 1, Dwyer 2, Sapong 3
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
CCL Match Day 2: South of the Border
Sporting KC continues it's busy start to the season with a trip south of the border to Mexico City where tomorrow they'll take on Cruz Azul. Sporting KC travel to the capital with a 1-0 lead on aggregate thanks to the Kevin Ellis goal last week. This time though KC travel into a hostile environment at altitude looking to advance to the CCL semifinals.
Cruz Azul is heading into the game with a couple holes to fill due to suspensions. In the midfield they will be without Alejandro Castro and in defense they'll be short Rogelio Chavez. Both of whom picked up yellow cards in Kansas City and are suspended for this game. Castro's midfield role may be the bigger one to fill for the Machine with their depth. But they'll still have their first team attack for the most part which will cause KC a number of problems. In league play this weekend, Cruz Azul picked up a 2-1 win at home over fellow quarterfinalist, Tijuana.
Kansas City comes in on the back of their 1-1 draw with Dallas at home, allowing the late equalizer. From following Twitter tonight, Sporting has traveled with the majority of their first team, which is really what I think everyone expected. The one exception to that is Seth Sinovic who is suspended for the game due to yellow card accumulation. KC does get Aurelien Collin back from suspension though to slot into central defense with Matt Besler. The question for KC is whether Peter Vermes will alter his strategy at all with the game at altitude, KC looked extremely tired by the end of the home leg. They'll need to hold a little bit back or else they'll burn out earlier at altitude.
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin vs Mariano Pavone - Pavone is going to see a lot of the ball tomorrow. It will likely require a strong effort from Collin to contain the Argentine.
Number to Remember - 0 - That's the number of home and away series that MLS has won against Mexican sides when the second leg has been in Mexico. Only twice have MLS teams won a home and away series against a Mexican side, and both of those saw the MLS side advance with the second leg at the MLS' home stadium.
PREDICTION - This is no easy task at all for Kansas City heading into Mexico City. They have a strong team and have so far sacrificed some league form to put their best foot forward in the CCL. The question is whether that is going to be enough against a very good Cruz Azul side. I want to say that it will be, but I'm not so sure. My feeling is that Cruz Azul is going to score one goal in the first half and another goal in the early second half. The last 10 minutes will be hectic as Sporting looks for the one goal that will see them go through, but it doesn't come and KC bows out.
SKC - 0
CA - 2 (Fabian, Pavone)
Cruz Azul is heading into the game with a couple holes to fill due to suspensions. In the midfield they will be without Alejandro Castro and in defense they'll be short Rogelio Chavez. Both of whom picked up yellow cards in Kansas City and are suspended for this game. Castro's midfield role may be the bigger one to fill for the Machine with their depth. But they'll still have their first team attack for the most part which will cause KC a number of problems. In league play this weekend, Cruz Azul picked up a 2-1 win at home over fellow quarterfinalist, Tijuana.
Kansas City comes in on the back of their 1-1 draw with Dallas at home, allowing the late equalizer. From following Twitter tonight, Sporting has traveled with the majority of their first team, which is really what I think everyone expected. The one exception to that is Seth Sinovic who is suspended for the game due to yellow card accumulation. KC does get Aurelien Collin back from suspension though to slot into central defense with Matt Besler. The question for KC is whether Peter Vermes will alter his strategy at all with the game at altitude, KC looked extremely tired by the end of the home leg. They'll need to hold a little bit back or else they'll burn out earlier at altitude.
Kronberg
Ellis - Collin - Besler - Gardner
Nagamura - Rosell
Feilhaber
Zusi - Bieler - Peterson
Key Match Up - Aurelien Collin vs Mariano Pavone - Pavone is going to see a lot of the ball tomorrow. It will likely require a strong effort from Collin to contain the Argentine.
Number to Remember - 0 - That's the number of home and away series that MLS has won against Mexican sides when the second leg has been in Mexico. Only twice have MLS teams won a home and away series against a Mexican side, and both of those saw the MLS side advance with the second leg at the MLS' home stadium.
PREDICTION - This is no easy task at all for Kansas City heading into Mexico City. They have a strong team and have so far sacrificed some league form to put their best foot forward in the CCL. The question is whether that is going to be enough against a very good Cruz Azul side. I want to say that it will be, but I'm not so sure. My feeling is that Cruz Azul is going to score one goal in the first half and another goal in the early second half. The last 10 minutes will be hectic as Sporting looks for the one goal that will see them go through, but it doesn't come and KC bows out.
SKC - 0
CA - 2 (Fabian, Pavone)
Sporting to Play Manchester City this Summer
Sporting KC announced today that the team will be playing a summer friendly this year as part of their Summer in the Soccer Capital. The first friendly since KC played Stoke City to a 1-1 draw at Sporting Park in 2012 will see Sporting KC take on a better English side, Manchester City on July 23rd.
Oriol Rosell had let word of the friendly slip back in December that the Capital One Cup winners this year would be traveling to Kansas City to play the defending MLS Cup champs at Sporting Park. It just took a few extra months to officially be announced. By the time these two teams play, City could have added Premier League Champs to their titles they've won this season.
City coming to Sporting Park would be the biggest team to play at Sporting Park and the biggest team to come to KC since Manchester United played the Wizards at Arrowhead Stadium in 2010.
The game falls on a Wednesday between two big league games, at home against LA and away at Toronto. So there will certainly be plenty of gnashing of teeth about that.
Another thing to be mindful of is that with the World Cup this summer, there's a chance we're not going to see some of City's World Cup players, depending on how far they advance. With players potentially representing England, Argentina, the Ivory Coast, France, Belgium, Spain, and Bosnia in Brazil, a number of first team players may not be traveling. Back in 2010 Sir Alex Ferguson left many of his World Cup veterans at home when they traveled to play KC just a few weeks after the World Cup.
A final thing to keep in mind if you're wanting to go to this, is expect to pay a bit more than you will for a regular Sporting game. With the game at Sporting Park and attendance likely capped around 20,000, the rules of supply and demand will certainly be in play here.
Oriol Rosell had let word of the friendly slip back in December that the Capital One Cup winners this year would be traveling to Kansas City to play the defending MLS Cup champs at Sporting Park. It just took a few extra months to officially be announced. By the time these two teams play, City could have added Premier League Champs to their titles they've won this season.
City coming to Sporting Park would be the biggest team to play at Sporting Park and the biggest team to come to KC since Manchester United played the Wizards at Arrowhead Stadium in 2010.
The game falls on a Wednesday between two big league games, at home against LA and away at Toronto. So there will certainly be plenty of gnashing of teeth about that.
Another thing to be mindful of is that with the World Cup this summer, there's a chance we're not going to see some of City's World Cup players, depending on how far they advance. With players potentially representing England, Argentina, the Ivory Coast, France, Belgium, Spain, and Bosnia in Brazil, a number of first team players may not be traveling. Back in 2010 Sir Alex Ferguson left many of his World Cup veterans at home when they traveled to play KC just a few weeks after the World Cup.
A final thing to keep in mind if you're wanting to go to this, is expect to pay a bit more than you will for a regular Sporting game. With the game at Sporting Park and attendance likely capped around 20,000, the rules of supply and demand will certainly be in play here.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Comets Set to Leave the MISL?
The Missouri Comets have been champions for barely 24 hours, but it looks right now that they won't be defending their title in 2014-2015. At least not in the MISL. Stories out today have the Missouri Comets leaving the MISL, potentially joining the PASL for the next season.
There'd been some rumors of some unrest among teams over the past few weeks, but nothing really newsworthy had come out, until today. The team hadn't even left Baltimore this morning before the USL/MISL dropped the first news of the day, releasing a statement about changes that were upcoming. The league stated that they have started to review "all aspects of the property(MISL)."
As a result of this and the expected changes coming with it, the league said this: "several teams that possess a different philosophy on how to structure and operate an indoor professional soccer league will not be returning to the MISL."
Speculation as to who the teams were started, the Rochester Lancers' owner, Sam Fantauzzo, confirmed that they were one of the four teams. Shortly later, The Post-Standard in Syracuse confirmed the other three teams, Syracuse, Baltimore, and Missouri. The four teams had all fulfilled their three season franchise commitment to the MISL making them free to leave the league if they wanted to.
Those four teams leaving would leave the MISL with just three teams, Milwaukee, St. Louis, and Pennsylvania, not enough for them to field a league, which would open those teams up to leave as well. In response to the news, Milwaukee released a statement that they would be "exploring all options in an attempt to keep Professional Indoor Soccer alive in Milwaukee."
St. Louis as well is looking at their options if the four teams do leave, saying they won't play in a three team league. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania has had no comment after their one win season and them being around next year in any form would be surprising.
A move to the PASL would be an interesting one for the Comets. They'd likely move into the league's Central Division where they'd have trips to Wichita, Dallas, and Tulsa. Would be some closer travel than their trips to the East Coast. Certainly a situation for fans of indoor soccer to keep an eye on. The sport has been struggling to keep a consistent footing since the heydays of the original MISL. Since then there's been a number of other leagues, the NPSL, the XSL, and even another incarnation of the MISL. Getting consistency has been something indoor soccer has lacked.
There'd been some rumors of some unrest among teams over the past few weeks, but nothing really newsworthy had come out, until today. The team hadn't even left Baltimore this morning before the USL/MISL dropped the first news of the day, releasing a statement about changes that were upcoming. The league stated that they have started to review "all aspects of the property(MISL)."
As a result of this and the expected changes coming with it, the league said this: "several teams that possess a different philosophy on how to structure and operate an indoor professional soccer league will not be returning to the MISL."
Speculation as to who the teams were started, the Rochester Lancers' owner, Sam Fantauzzo, confirmed that they were one of the four teams. Shortly later, The Post-Standard in Syracuse confirmed the other three teams, Syracuse, Baltimore, and Missouri. The four teams had all fulfilled their three season franchise commitment to the MISL making them free to leave the league if they wanted to.
Those four teams leaving would leave the MISL with just three teams, Milwaukee, St. Louis, and Pennsylvania, not enough for them to field a league, which would open those teams up to leave as well. In response to the news, Milwaukee released a statement that they would be "exploring all options in an attempt to keep Professional Indoor Soccer alive in Milwaukee."
St. Louis as well is looking at their options if the four teams do leave, saying they won't play in a three team league. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania has had no comment after their one win season and them being around next year in any form would be surprising.
A move to the PASL would be an interesting one for the Comets. They'd likely move into the league's Central Division where they'd have trips to Wichita, Dallas, and Tulsa. Would be some closer travel than their trips to the East Coast. Certainly a situation for fans of indoor soccer to keep an eye on. The sport has been struggling to keep a consistent footing since the heydays of the original MISL. Since then there's been a number of other leagues, the NPSL, the XSL, and even another incarnation of the MISL. Getting consistency has been something indoor soccer has lacked.
Lopez Headed to Orlando
Sporting KC today announced the third player going on loan to their USL affiliates this year. The team had already announced that Christian Duke and Jon Kempin were heading to Oklahoma City to join the Energy. Today the team announced that Generation Adidas midfielder, Mikey Lopez is headed to Orlando City to join the Lions for their 2014 USL-Pro season.
The original plan was that Sporting would send to players to both Oklahoma City and Orlando, but at least at this time it looks like it'll just be the three. Maybe once KC is out off the CCL they'll seed down someone else down.
The loan for Lopez though is a good opportunity. At this point, Lopez needs to get games and this should give him that opportunity to get time. Hopefully he impresses.
The original plan was that Sporting would send to players to both Oklahoma City and Orlando, but at least at this time it looks like it'll just be the three. Maybe once KC is out off the CCL they'll seed down someone else down.
The loan for Lopez though is a good opportunity. At this point, Lopez needs to get games and this should give him that opportunity to get time. Hopefully he impresses.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Comets Win MISL Championship in Game 3
First it was Sporting KC in December, now it's the Missouri Comets turn. The Comets scored two goals in the last minute and 34 seconds of the deciding game 3 mini-game to clinch their first MISL title 6-4 over the defending champion Baltimore Blast.
First, the less said about game two, the better. The Blast scored 15 unanswered points before Leo Gibson got the Comets on the board in the third quarter. Brian Harris scored another goal for the Comets, but they fell 19-4 to force the mini-game.
In the mini-game the Blast got the first goal with under half the quarter left thanks to Max Ferdinand. Less than a minute later the Comets were level through Lucas Rodriguez who scored off a bicycle kick to level the scores at 2-2.
The Blast continued to look for a goal to retake the lead and got it through Adauto Neto who tucked it into the corner to make it 4-2. The Comets brought on Vahid Assadpour in the sixth attacker role hoping to find an equalizer. With just over a minute and a half left they got it. A restart in the corner was played back into the path of Rodriguez. The Argentine fired the ball to the back post where Stefan St. Louis reached in front of his mark and knocked the ball home with his shin to level the game at 4-4.
Thirty seconds later the Comets got themselves their first lead of the night through Harris. The ball was played up field to Gibson who held off his defender and he touched it wide to Harris who was making an unmarked run up the field. Harris curled his shot first time into the far corner to give the Comets the 6-4 lead. The Comets held off the Blast late as they looked to equalize through the sixth attacker and got their first championship.
Harris was named the MVP of the championship series. A deserved award for the defender who had a fantastic season.
The Comets return to KC tomorrow, and there will be fan celebration at some time that the team will announce on social media. KC is really trying to live up to that Soccer Capital of America thing.
First, the less said about game two, the better. The Blast scored 15 unanswered points before Leo Gibson got the Comets on the board in the third quarter. Brian Harris scored another goal for the Comets, but they fell 19-4 to force the mini-game.
In the mini-game the Blast got the first goal with under half the quarter left thanks to Max Ferdinand. Less than a minute later the Comets were level through Lucas Rodriguez who scored off a bicycle kick to level the scores at 2-2.
The Blast continued to look for a goal to retake the lead and got it through Adauto Neto who tucked it into the corner to make it 4-2. The Comets brought on Vahid Assadpour in the sixth attacker role hoping to find an equalizer. With just over a minute and a half left they got it. A restart in the corner was played back into the path of Rodriguez. The Argentine fired the ball to the back post where Stefan St. Louis reached in front of his mark and knocked the ball home with his shin to level the game at 4-4.
Thirty seconds later the Comets got themselves their first lead of the night through Harris. The ball was played up field to Gibson who held off his defender and he touched it wide to Harris who was making an unmarked run up the field. Harris curled his shot first time into the far corner to give the Comets the 6-4 lead. The Comets held off the Blast late as they looked to equalize through the sixth attacker and got their first championship.
Harris was named the MVP of the championship series. A deserved award for the defender who had a fantastic season.
The Comets return to KC tomorrow, and there will be fan celebration at some time that the team will announce on social media. KC is really trying to live up to that Soccer Capital of America thing.
Sunday After Stats
At 20 years and 37 days, Jimmy Medranda became the 5th youngest player to start a league game for KC. He knocked Justin Detter out of the top 20.
In all competitions he became the 6th youngest player to start a game for KC, knocking Matt McKeon off that list.
Seth Sinovic made his 100th league start of his MLS career.
Aurelien Collin scored his 15th goal in all competitions for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga, Sasha Victorine, Claudio Lopez, and Jack Jewsbury for 20th on that list.
Alex Martinez made his Sporting KC debut.
Oriol Rosell made his 50th appearance in all competitions for KC.
Matt Besler made his 128th league appearance for KC, tying him with Jimmy Nielsen for 12th place all time on that list.
In all competitions he became the 6th youngest player to start a game for KC, knocking Matt McKeon off that list.
Seth Sinovic made his 100th league start of his MLS career.
Aurelien Collin scored his 15th goal in all competitions for KC, tying him with Jose Burciaga, Sasha Victorine, Claudio Lopez, and Jack Jewsbury for 20th on that list.
Alex Martinez made his Sporting KC debut.
Oriol Rosell made his 50th appearance in all competitions for KC.
Matt Besler made his 128th league appearance for KC, tying him with Jimmy Nielsen for 12th place all time on that list.
Sporting Drop More Points Late
For the second straight league game Sporting KC allowed points to slip away. This time instead just one point, KC dropped two as they allowed Dallas to score a goal in the 90th minute to allow them to secure a point with their only shot on goal all game.
KC had a good opportunity early on from their high pressure. In just the fourth minute a long ball over the top found Sal Zizzo on the wing. Dallas goalkeeper, Chris Seitz came off his line but got stranded as Zizzo chipped the ball over him. The ball was going wide but CJ Sapong raced in at the far post to try to knock it home but his shot was blocked out for a corner. KC continued the high pressure and in the 12th minute Zizzo had another opportunity. KC forced a turn over in Dallas' end. Sapong ended up with the ball and played it to Benny Feilhaber who dribbled towards the box before dishing off to Dom Dwyer. The ball got poked away from Dwyer right into the path of Zizzo. To lose his man, Zizzo turned and then fired a shot that Seitz pushed away. In first half stoppage time Dallas had their first good look at goal as Blas Perez got the ball at the top of the box, but fired his effort just wide.
KC inserted Jacob Peterson into the lineup to start the second half and he caused issues for Dallas down the left. He had a penalty shout in the 52nd minute as he nutmeged Keyln Accosta and dribbled into the box, he appeared to be grabbed a bit by Accosta as he entered the box. Andrew Jacobson got a touch to the ball knocking it away from Peterson, but he caught back up with it at the same time as Accosta and both went down. Originally it appeared that replacement referee Abbey Okulaja pointed to the spot, but he was actually calling the foul on Peterson. KC kept pushing the game and finally found their goal in the 81st minute. Off a Benny Feilhaber corner, Aurelien Collin got space in the box and headed the ball past Seitz and into the net to make it 1-0.
After the goal, Dallas became the aggressors pushing the game. Then in the 88th minute, David Texeira went down about 25 yards from goal under little contact from Oriol Rosell. Whether Texeira was fouled or made a meal of it, Michel stepped up and played a nice ball into the box where Matt Hedges met it, heading it past Eric Kronberg and into the net. It was the fifth time in four games against FC Dallas that KC has allowed a goal in the 88th minute or later. The big question that has to be asked about the play is why KC's best header of the ball, Collin, was set up in the wall. I understand that Michel is a good free kick taker, but it makes no sense for Collin to be in the wall there. With the game level, KC threw numbers forward trying to find another goal. They almost got one in the second minute of stoppage time off a free kick. The ball was played quick to Alex Martinez down the line. He raced into the box and fired a shot on goal that beat Seitz, but was knocked away by Hedges to keep the game level. Another game that will frustrate KC fans.
Wizards Man of the Match - Aurelien Collin - Another goal for the Frenchman, he's scored four of KC's last nine goals in all competitions. Did a good job shutting down Dallas' attacks, only question was why he was in the wall on Dallas' goal.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Jerome 5, Collin 6, Besler 5, Sinovic 6, Rosell 5, Feilhaber 6, Medranda 5, Zizzo 5, Dwyer 4, Sapong 4. Subs Peterson 6, Martinez 6, Bieler 5.
KC had a good opportunity early on from their high pressure. In just the fourth minute a long ball over the top found Sal Zizzo on the wing. Dallas goalkeeper, Chris Seitz came off his line but got stranded as Zizzo chipped the ball over him. The ball was going wide but CJ Sapong raced in at the far post to try to knock it home but his shot was blocked out for a corner. KC continued the high pressure and in the 12th minute Zizzo had another opportunity. KC forced a turn over in Dallas' end. Sapong ended up with the ball and played it to Benny Feilhaber who dribbled towards the box before dishing off to Dom Dwyer. The ball got poked away from Dwyer right into the path of Zizzo. To lose his man, Zizzo turned and then fired a shot that Seitz pushed away. In first half stoppage time Dallas had their first good look at goal as Blas Perez got the ball at the top of the box, but fired his effort just wide.
KC inserted Jacob Peterson into the lineup to start the second half and he caused issues for Dallas down the left. He had a penalty shout in the 52nd minute as he nutmeged Keyln Accosta and dribbled into the box, he appeared to be grabbed a bit by Accosta as he entered the box. Andrew Jacobson got a touch to the ball knocking it away from Peterson, but he caught back up with it at the same time as Accosta and both went down. Originally it appeared that replacement referee Abbey Okulaja pointed to the spot, but he was actually calling the foul on Peterson. KC kept pushing the game and finally found their goal in the 81st minute. Off a Benny Feilhaber corner, Aurelien Collin got space in the box and headed the ball past Seitz and into the net to make it 1-0.
After the goal, Dallas became the aggressors pushing the game. Then in the 88th minute, David Texeira went down about 25 yards from goal under little contact from Oriol Rosell. Whether Texeira was fouled or made a meal of it, Michel stepped up and played a nice ball into the box where Matt Hedges met it, heading it past Eric Kronberg and into the net. It was the fifth time in four games against FC Dallas that KC has allowed a goal in the 88th minute or later. The big question that has to be asked about the play is why KC's best header of the ball, Collin, was set up in the wall. I understand that Michel is a good free kick taker, but it makes no sense for Collin to be in the wall there. With the game level, KC threw numbers forward trying to find another goal. They almost got one in the second minute of stoppage time off a free kick. The ball was played quick to Alex Martinez down the line. He raced into the box and fired a shot on goal that beat Seitz, but was knocked away by Hedges to keep the game level. Another game that will frustrate KC fans.
Wizards Man of the Match - Aurelien Collin - Another goal for the Frenchman, he's scored four of KC's last nine goals in all competitions. Did a good job shutting down Dallas' attacks, only question was why he was in the wall on Dallas' goal.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Jerome 5, Collin 6, Besler 5, Sinovic 6, Rosell 5, Feilhaber 6, Medranda 5, Zizzo 5, Dwyer 4, Sapong 4. Subs Peterson 6, Martinez 6, Bieler 5.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Comets Win Championship Game One
From the Comets
The Missouri Comets start off the 2014 Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) Championship Series with a thrilling 15-8 win over the Baltimore Blast. Missouri’s Vahid Assadpour set a MISL playoff record with a hat trick consisting of only 3-point goals and led all scorers on the night. J. T. Noone had a hat trick of his own for the Blast, scoring two goals late in the game. A crowd of 4,524 were on hand to see the Comets take a 1-0 series lead.
Baltimore started the game off with two goals from Noone and Max Ferdinand worth two points each. The Blast would routinely take an early lead like this in the regular season and rely on their stout defense to bring home the win. Tonight, the Comets were not intimidated and kept up their attack.
Assadpour answered the Blast’s scores with his first three-point goal of the night. With seven minutes remaining in the first quarter John Sosa found a waiting Assadpour outside the yellow line and without hesitation, the captain buried a shot past Baltimore’s goalkeeper, Troy Hernandez.
The second quarter would not see a score change, but the players kept the fans on the edge of their seats as the intensity level rose on the field. As the teams headed off the field, Baltimore holding a slim 4-3 lead, several players were involved in a skirmish towards the player tunnel. After everything was sorted out, Missouri’s John Sosa and Baltimore’s Adriano Dos Santos were each shown a Red Card and ejected from the game.
Fired up coming out of the break, Assadpour netted his second three-point goal on a restart play. Not even a minute later, Stefan St. Louis collected a distribution from goalkeeper Danny Waltman and blasted home a shot from just outside the arc. The goal was St. Louis’ second and Waltman’s first assist of the playoff season.
With a 9-4 advantage, Comets head coach Vlatko Andonovski encouraged his team to keep up their offensive pressure. Assadpour finished his hat trick five minutes in to the final quarter, unassisted, with a shot that Hernandez never even saw. With this strike, Assadpour set an MISL Record for three-point scores in a playoff game that had held since the 2012 playoff season.
The Blast brought Mike Lookingland on as a sixth attacker with minutes left in the game, down 12-4. Lucas Rodriguez cleared a pass out of Missouri’s defensive zone where defender Brian Harris ran onto it. Smartly, he tapped the ball towards goal outside of the three-point arc and walked the ball into the net for the Comets fifth straight three-point score.
Noone scored two more times before the final whistle for the Blast, both worth two points, but it was too little and too late for Baltimore. The Comets were able to take a 1-0 series lead on the back of five three-point scores, and a 15-8 victory.
The series now moves to Baltimore on Sunday, March 16 at 4:05 p.m. CT. A win would claim the first MISL Championship in Comets history. Should the Blast win Game Two, an immediate 15 minute Mini-Game would be played to decide the winner of the series.
Fans are encouraged to join the Comets Nation Fan Club at Coach’s Bar & Grille on 103rd and Wornall on Sunday for the Official Watch Party. The game will be shown LIVE on the Comets website at CometsIndoorSoccer.com/Live-Feed.
The Missouri Comets start off the 2014 Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) Championship Series with a thrilling 15-8 win over the Baltimore Blast. Missouri’s Vahid Assadpour set a MISL playoff record with a hat trick consisting of only 3-point goals and led all scorers on the night. J. T. Noone had a hat trick of his own for the Blast, scoring two goals late in the game. A crowd of 4,524 were on hand to see the Comets take a 1-0 series lead.
Baltimore started the game off with two goals from Noone and Max Ferdinand worth two points each. The Blast would routinely take an early lead like this in the regular season and rely on their stout defense to bring home the win. Tonight, the Comets were not intimidated and kept up their attack.
Assadpour answered the Blast’s scores with his first three-point goal of the night. With seven minutes remaining in the first quarter John Sosa found a waiting Assadpour outside the yellow line and without hesitation, the captain buried a shot past Baltimore’s goalkeeper, Troy Hernandez.
The second quarter would not see a score change, but the players kept the fans on the edge of their seats as the intensity level rose on the field. As the teams headed off the field, Baltimore holding a slim 4-3 lead, several players were involved in a skirmish towards the player tunnel. After everything was sorted out, Missouri’s John Sosa and Baltimore’s Adriano Dos Santos were each shown a Red Card and ejected from the game.
Fired up coming out of the break, Assadpour netted his second three-point goal on a restart play. Not even a minute later, Stefan St. Louis collected a distribution from goalkeeper Danny Waltman and blasted home a shot from just outside the arc. The goal was St. Louis’ second and Waltman’s first assist of the playoff season.
With a 9-4 advantage, Comets head coach Vlatko Andonovski encouraged his team to keep up their offensive pressure. Assadpour finished his hat trick five minutes in to the final quarter, unassisted, with a shot that Hernandez never even saw. With this strike, Assadpour set an MISL Record for three-point scores in a playoff game that had held since the 2012 playoff season.
The Blast brought Mike Lookingland on as a sixth attacker with minutes left in the game, down 12-4. Lucas Rodriguez cleared a pass out of Missouri’s defensive zone where defender Brian Harris ran onto it. Smartly, he tapped the ball towards goal outside of the three-point arc and walked the ball into the net for the Comets fifth straight three-point score.
Noone scored two more times before the final whistle for the Blast, both worth two points, but it was too little and too late for Baltimore. The Comets were able to take a 1-0 series lead on the back of five three-point scores, and a 15-8 victory.
The series now moves to Baltimore on Sunday, March 16 at 4:05 p.m. CT. A win would claim the first MISL Championship in Comets history. Should the Blast win Game Two, an immediate 15 minute Mini-Game would be played to decide the winner of the series.
Fans are encouraged to join the Comets Nation Fan Club at Coach’s Bar & Grille on 103rd and Wornall on Sunday for the Official Watch Party. The game will be shown LIVE on the Comets website at CometsIndoorSoccer.com/Live-Feed.
Friday, March 14, 2014
Match Day 2: Fighting on Two Fronts
Sporting KC continue their busy start to the 2014 season tomorrow in their MLS home opener against FC Dallas. KC is coming into the game after an intense, hard fought game against Cruz Azul. They must now find a way to get up for this game before traveling to Mexico City for the second leg.
Dallas comes into the game after topping the Montreal Impact 3-2 last weekend at home. Fabian Castillo, Blas Perez, and Mauro Diaz all found net for Dallas in the win. Dallas has a bit of a new look this year after bringing back Oscar Pareja from Colorado, they've added new forwards including Andres Escobar and David Texeira, both of whom did not play a role in the win over the Impact. Both could play a part in the game this coming weekend. They'll also have more bit in their midfield with the addition of Hendry Thomas, also from Colorado.
For Kansas City, there's a question of how exactly they'll come out for the game tomorrow. They will likely rest a few players ahead of the trip to higher altitude for the game against Cruz Azul. Matt Besler, Kevin Ellis, and Graham Zusi have played every minute of the first two games, and Benny Feilhaber isn't that far behind. Getting a few of those guys a rest would not be surprising ahead of this game and the Champions' League game. A healthy Chance Myers can slot back in at right back, and if not him, then Mechack Jerome can step in. With Aurelien Collin sitting out Wednesday and Seth Sinovic suspended this coming Wednesday I'd expect them both to start tomorrow. There could also be room for the likes of Jimmy Medranda or Mikey Lopez to make their first MLS start. This really is one of the harder games to figure out exactly how Kansas City is going to come out, which could work to their advantage.
Key Match Up - KC Defense vs Dallas Offense - With KC likely fielding at least a couple reserves tomorrow KC is going to need someone to step up defensively the way that Ellis did against Cruz Azul. Dallas has a lot of attacking options that could cause a lot of trouble for a tired KC back line.
Number to Remember - 2 - That's the number of losses that KC have in home openers in MLS history. Sporting is 11-2-5 in their first home game. They have not lost since a 3-2 loss to Toronto in 2009.
PREDICTION - A lot of fans already appear to be looking past this game and on towards Wednesday's match against Cruz Azul. But a loss here and KC does something that has only happened twice in their history, go winless in their first two games. Dallas is an improved team from last year and should provide a big challenge for KC. And while a loss isn't crippling, since it's against a Western Conference foe, dropping to 0-2 would be a bit of a confidence blow heading into the match up with Cruz Azul.
SKC - 2 (Dwyer, Sapong)
FCD - 1 (Diaz)
Dallas comes into the game after topping the Montreal Impact 3-2 last weekend at home. Fabian Castillo, Blas Perez, and Mauro Diaz all found net for Dallas in the win. Dallas has a bit of a new look this year after bringing back Oscar Pareja from Colorado, they've added new forwards including Andres Escobar and David Texeira, both of whom did not play a role in the win over the Impact. Both could play a part in the game this coming weekend. They'll also have more bit in their midfield with the addition of Hendry Thomas, also from Colorado.
For Kansas City, there's a question of how exactly they'll come out for the game tomorrow. They will likely rest a few players ahead of the trip to higher altitude for the game against Cruz Azul. Matt Besler, Kevin Ellis, and Graham Zusi have played every minute of the first two games, and Benny Feilhaber isn't that far behind. Getting a few of those guys a rest would not be surprising ahead of this game and the Champions' League game. A healthy Chance Myers can slot back in at right back, and if not him, then Mechack Jerome can step in. With Aurelien Collin sitting out Wednesday and Seth Sinovic suspended this coming Wednesday I'd expect them both to start tomorrow. There could also be room for the likes of Jimmy Medranda or Mikey Lopez to make their first MLS start. This really is one of the harder games to figure out exactly how Kansas City is going to come out, which could work to their advantage.
Kronberg
Jerome - Collin - Opara - Sinovic
Olum - Rosell
Medranda
Zizzo - Dwyer - Sapong
Key Match Up - KC Defense vs Dallas Offense - With KC likely fielding at least a couple reserves tomorrow KC is going to need someone to step up defensively the way that Ellis did against Cruz Azul. Dallas has a lot of attacking options that could cause a lot of trouble for a tired KC back line.
Number to Remember - 2 - That's the number of losses that KC have in home openers in MLS history. Sporting is 11-2-5 in their first home game. They have not lost since a 3-2 loss to Toronto in 2009.
PREDICTION - A lot of fans already appear to be looking past this game and on towards Wednesday's match against Cruz Azul. But a loss here and KC does something that has only happened twice in their history, go winless in their first two games. Dallas is an improved team from last year and should provide a big challenge for KC. And while a loss isn't crippling, since it's against a Western Conference foe, dropping to 0-2 would be a bit of a confidence blow heading into the match up with Cruz Azul.
SKC - 2 (Dwyer, Sapong)
FCD - 1 (Diaz)
Duke and Kempin Join Oklahoma City on Loan
Sporting Kansas City today announced the first of their loan moves to their USL-Pro affiliates for the 2014 season. The first moves were for their affiliate in Oklahoma City, the Energy.
The two players loaned to the Energy, Christian Duke and Jon Kempin are headed out for their second loan spells. Both Duke and Kempin spent the 2013 season with Orlando City. The fact that both are going out on loan is not a surprise. Kempin going to Oklahoma City is probably the least surprising move as it allows him to continue to learn from Jimmy Nielsen, who mentored Kempin many times while he was still with Kansas City. Duke showed a lot of improvement during his time with Orlando City, but he still isn't quite ready to contribute in KC's midfield.
We're still awaiting word on who will be heading to Orlando this year. One possibility, especially with the emergence the past two games of Kevin Ellis, is Mechack Jerome, who played with Orlando before being brought in by KC last year. Other possibilities include Alex Martinez, Soony Saad, or even Erik Palmer-Brown.
The two players loaned to the Energy, Christian Duke and Jon Kempin are headed out for their second loan spells. Both Duke and Kempin spent the 2013 season with Orlando City. The fact that both are going out on loan is not a surprise. Kempin going to Oklahoma City is probably the least surprising move as it allows him to continue to learn from Jimmy Nielsen, who mentored Kempin many times while he was still with Kansas City. Duke showed a lot of improvement during his time with Orlando City, but he still isn't quite ready to contribute in KC's midfield.
We're still awaiting word on who will be heading to Orlando this year. One possibility, especially with the emergence the past two games of Kevin Ellis, is Mechack Jerome, who played with Orlando before being brought in by KC last year. Other possibilities include Alex Martinez, Soony Saad, or even Erik Palmer-Brown.
Sporting KC Linked With Brazilian Teenager
Sporting KC still has one open spot on their roster currently after the signing earlier this week of Antonio Dovale. Today came a rumor out of Brazil that KC will be filling that spot with a player they faced in preseason. Rumor is that KC is set to secure a loan deal for Fluminense's right back, Igor Julião.
Sporting got to see Julião up close and personal in Orlando during preseason as he started at right back for Fluminense's U23 team in their 3-0 loss to KC at the Disney Pro Soccer Classic. While Julião is listed as a right back, he cane apparently also play in the midfield and on the wing, similar to the recently signed Dovale. Julião has a couple of appearances for Fluminense's first team and has also appeared for Brazil's U20 team.
On paper this type of deal reminds me of the deal that brought Jimmy Medranda to Kansas City. The then 19 year old Medranda didn't get much playing time while on loan last year (just 1 appearance), but impressed enough for KC to agree buy him. I'd see something similar if Julião impresses.
Sporting got to see Julião up close and personal in Orlando during preseason as he started at right back for Fluminense's U23 team in their 3-0 loss to KC at the Disney Pro Soccer Classic. While Julião is listed as a right back, he cane apparently also play in the midfield and on the wing, similar to the recently signed Dovale. Julião has a couple of appearances for Fluminense's first team and has also appeared for Brazil's U20 team.
On paper this type of deal reminds me of the deal that brought Jimmy Medranda to Kansas City. The then 19 year old Medranda didn't get much playing time while on loan last year (just 1 appearance), but impressed enough for KC to agree buy him. I'd see something similar if Julião impresses.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Espinoza and Wigan do it to Man City Again - Former SKC Wizards Update
Last year after moving to Wigan from Kansas City during the winter transfer window, Roger Espinoza helped Wigan Athletic beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final to win back to back cups. This year in the FA Cup quarterfinals Wigan was matched up against City again. The result didn't change, Wigan took out their fellow finalist 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium with Espinoza playing the final 24 minutes for Wigan.
Here is the rest of this week's update, including the return of MLS play.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Started and played 73 minutes in DC's 3-0 loss to Columbus.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Started and played 90 minutes in New England's 4-0 loss to Houston.
Bobby Convey - New York - Started and played 90 minutes in New York's 4-1 loss to Vancouver.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 66 minutes in RSL's 1-0 win over LA.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 85 minutes in Portland's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 3-0 loss to Columbus.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - No game this week.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Did not dress in San Jose's 1-1 draw with Toluca.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Came off the bench and played 1 minute in Columbus' 3-0 win over DC.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Played in both of the Blast's games against Syracuse.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 1-0 win over Locarno.
Vicente Arze - FK Hoverla Uzhhorod - Ukraine - Start of season delayed by unrest in Ukraine
Federico Bessone - Millwall - England - Did not dress in Millwall's 1-0 win over Derby. Started and played 64 minutes in Millwall's 1-0 loss to Blackpool.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Did not dress in either of Chivas' games.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Lost 1-0 to EAEM Potros.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring two goals in Bengaluru's 3-0 win over Churchill Brothers.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Started and played 75 minutes in UAI's 1-0 loss to Almagro. Did not play in UAI's 0-0 draw with Chacarita Juniors.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 2-0 win over St. Ann's.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not play in Deportivo's 2-0 win over Real Santander.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Came off the bench and played 24 minutes in Wigan's 2-1 win over Manchester City in the FA Cup. Did not dress in Wigan's 1-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 15 minutes in Tijuana's 2-0 win over Chivas. Came off the bench and played 10 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 loss to LA.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Started and played 70 minutes in Boavista's 0-0 draw with Macae. Started and played 63 minutes in Boavista's 1-0 win over Volta Redonda.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 2-0 loss to Simurq.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Came off the bench and played 18 minutes in Middlesbrough's 2-0 win over Ipswich. Came off the bench and played 7 minutes in Middlesbrough's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest.
Igor Kostrov - FC Costuleni - Moldova - Started and played 90 minutes in Costuleni's 0-0 draw with Academia. Started and played 78 minutes in Costuleni's 1-1 draw with Veris.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 89 minutes, picking up a red card in San Martin's 1-0 win over Sport Huancayo.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 1-0 win over Locarno.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Came off the bench and played 49 minutes in Spartak's 1-0 loss to Terek Grozny. Started and played 71 minutes in Spartak's 1-0 extra time cup loss to Tosno.
Michal Mravec - Podbeskidzie - Poland - Did not dress in Podbeskidzie's 0-0 draw with Piast Gliwice.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Season started 4/6
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - No game this week.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Started and played 90 minutes in Sarjevo's 1-1 draw with Olimpic Sarajevo. Started and played 79 minutes in Sarajevo's 1-1 draw with Zeljeznicar in the cup.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 67 minutes in Munster's 2-1 win over Unterhaching.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 3-1 win over Atletico Venezuela.
Here is the rest of this week's update, including the return of MLS play.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Started and played 73 minutes in DC's 3-0 loss to Columbus.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Started and played 90 minutes in New England's 4-0 loss to Houston.
Bobby Convey - New York - Started and played 90 minutes in New York's 4-1 loss to Vancouver.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Started and played 66 minutes in RSL's 1-0 win over LA.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Started and played 90 minutes in Portland's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Started and played 85 minutes in Portland's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Started and played 90 minutes in DC's 3-0 loss to Columbus.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - No game this week.
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Did not dress in Portland's 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
Khari Stephenson - San Jose - Did not dress in San Jose's 1-1 draw with Toluca.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Came off the bench and played 1 minute in Columbus' 3-0 win over DC.
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Played in both of the Blast's games against Syracuse.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 1-0 win over Locarno.
Vicente Arze - FK Hoverla Uzhhorod - Ukraine - Start of season delayed by unrest in Ukraine
Federico Bessone - Millwall - England - Did not dress in Millwall's 1-0 win over Derby. Started and played 64 minutes in Millwall's 1-0 loss to Blackpool.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Did not dress in either of Chivas' games.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - Lost 1-0 to EAEM Potros.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring two goals in Bengaluru's 3-0 win over Churchill Brothers.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Started and played 75 minutes in UAI's 1-0 loss to Almagro. Did not play in UAI's 0-0 draw with Chacarita Juniors.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - Started and played 90 minutes in W Connection's 2-0 win over St. Ann's.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Did not play in Deportivo's 2-0 win over Real Santander.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Came off the bench and played 24 minutes in Wigan's 2-1 win over Manchester City in the FA Cup. Did not dress in Wigan's 1-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Came off the bench and played 15 minutes in Tijuana's 2-0 win over Chivas. Came off the bench and played 10 minutes in Tijuana's 1-0 loss to LA.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Started and played 70 minutes in Boavista's 0-0 draw with Macae. Started and played 63 minutes in Boavista's 1-0 win over Volta Redonda.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 2-0 loss to Simurq.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Came off the bench and played 18 minutes in Middlesbrough's 2-0 win over Ipswich. Came off the bench and played 7 minutes in Middlesbrough's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest.
Igor Kostrov - FC Costuleni - Moldova - Started and played 90 minutes in Costuleni's 0-0 draw with Academia. Started and played 78 minutes in Costuleni's 1-1 draw with Veris.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 89 minutes, picking up a red card in San Martin's 1-0 win over Sport Huancayo.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 1-0 win over Locarno.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Came off the bench and played 49 minutes in Spartak's 1-0 loss to Terek Grozny. Started and played 71 minutes in Spartak's 1-0 extra time cup loss to Tosno.
Michal Mravec - Podbeskidzie - Poland - Did not dress in Podbeskidzie's 0-0 draw with Piast Gliwice.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Season started 4/6
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - No game this week.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Started and played 90 minutes in Sarjevo's 1-1 draw with Olimpic Sarajevo. Started and played 79 minutes in Sarajevo's 1-1 draw with Zeljeznicar in the cup.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 67 minutes in Munster's 2-1 win over Unterhaching.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 3-1 win over Atletico Venezuela.
S.A.S. Wednesday After Stats
Kevin Ellis scored his first professional goal.
Ellis' goal was KC's 25th in international competition.
At 22 years, 255 days, Ellis is the 18th youngest goal scorer in all competitions in KC's history.
In the 50th minute, Matt Besler moved past Michael Harrington and into 11th place for minutes played in all competitions. He finished the game with 13,317 minutes played.
Graham Zusi made his 147th appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Diego Gutierrez for 15th place.
Zusi made his 113th start in all competitions for KC, tying him with Sean Bowers for 18th place on that list.
The shutout was Eric Kronberg's 10th of his career, tying him with Mike Ammann for 5th all time.
Ellis' goal was KC's 25th in international competition.
At 22 years, 255 days, Ellis is the 18th youngest goal scorer in all competitions in KC's history.
In the 50th minute, Matt Besler moved past Michael Harrington and into 11th place for minutes played in all competitions. He finished the game with 13,317 minutes played.
Graham Zusi made his 147th appearance in all competitions for KC, tying him with Diego Gutierrez for 15th place.
Zusi made his 113th start in all competitions for KC, tying him with Sean Bowers for 18th place on that list.
The shutout was Eric Kronberg's 10th of his career, tying him with Mike Ammann for 5th all time.
Ellis Goal Enough as Sporting Head to Mexico with Advantage
Sporting KC started their series against Cruz Azul in the CONCACAF Champions League tonight on the right foot riding Kevin Ellis' first professional goal to a 1-0 win over the Mexican giants. Whether that single goal will be enough to see Kansas City through to the semifinals or not remains to be seen.
KC came out and pushed the game right from the start against Cruz Azul. In the seventh minute they should have gone up a goal as the ball fellt to Graham Zusi on the left. Zusi fired a shot but put it well wide of the goal, sending it out for a throw in. In the 17th their early pressure paid off. After some passing on the right, the ball got played to Claudio Bieler who hit a cross field ball with the outside of his foot to an open Ellis. The home grown player cut inside his defender and before he was closed down again fired a shot that squeezed in the near post of Jesus Corona and KC w3nt up 1-0. KC continued to push the game and kept searching for a second goal. Ike Opara fired a shot from long range that Corona had to tip over the bar for a corner. Off the ensuing corner, Ellis headed a ball on goal that Benny Feilhaber tried to flick past Corona, but the Cruz Azul keeper beat him to the ball. Cruz Azul had a good chance themselves as Marco Fabian got in behind KC's defense. But his touch let him down and before he could get an opportunity against Eric Kronberg, Opara recovered and knocked the ball away. Late in the half KC had another golden opportunity as Ellis played Bieler in on goal with only one defender between him. Bieler cut back and forth on Luis Perea before firing a shot towards the corner of the goal, but Corona at full stretch knocked the ball out for a corner kick. Cruz Azul was left frustrated as the teams went into the half time break.
In the second half Cruz Azul came out pressing the game much more and looked much better. They got more of the possession and kept KC locked in deep in their own end. Cruz Azul looked sure to score in the 55th minute as Mariano Pavone got played in behind KC's defense. 1v1 with Kronberg, the striker rounded KC's goalkeeper but Pavone's shot was cleared off the line by a recovering Opara. On the ensuing corner a moment of controversy as the corner was headed onto Fabian at the back post. His header was blocked by the arm of Feilhaber, which was away from his body. The ball then started looping towards goal, but Seth Sinovic cleared the ball off the line. KC found opportunities going forward few and far between but Zusi got off a good effort in the 64th from about 22 yards from goal. His shot left Corona rooted to the ground, but it hit the cross bar and bounced back into play. Cruz Azul kept pushing the ball up field and KC started to look extremely tired as the minutes ticked by, but KC held on and will travel with the lead to Mexico. It won't be easy, but the confidence from this result will hopefully carry over.
Wizards Man of the Match - Kevin Ellis - Not just because of the goal, but because of his defensive play as well. Cruz Azul went at him all night down KC's right and he did a very good job of keeping their attacks in check. Certainly looked like a guy that will be able to contribute more going forward.
Honorable Mention: Ike Opara, Benny Feilhaber's arm
Player Ratings: Kronberg 6, Ellis 8, Opara 7, Besler 6, Sinovic 7, Rosell 6, Nagamura 6, Feilhaber 5, Zusi 5, Bieler 7, Zizzo 6. Subs Peterson 5, Sapong 4, Dwyer NR.
KC came out and pushed the game right from the start against Cruz Azul. In the seventh minute they should have gone up a goal as the ball fellt to Graham Zusi on the left. Zusi fired a shot but put it well wide of the goal, sending it out for a throw in. In the 17th their early pressure paid off. After some passing on the right, the ball got played to Claudio Bieler who hit a cross field ball with the outside of his foot to an open Ellis. The home grown player cut inside his defender and before he was closed down again fired a shot that squeezed in the near post of Jesus Corona and KC w3nt up 1-0. KC continued to push the game and kept searching for a second goal. Ike Opara fired a shot from long range that Corona had to tip over the bar for a corner. Off the ensuing corner, Ellis headed a ball on goal that Benny Feilhaber tried to flick past Corona, but the Cruz Azul keeper beat him to the ball. Cruz Azul had a good chance themselves as Marco Fabian got in behind KC's defense. But his touch let him down and before he could get an opportunity against Eric Kronberg, Opara recovered and knocked the ball away. Late in the half KC had another golden opportunity as Ellis played Bieler in on goal with only one defender between him. Bieler cut back and forth on Luis Perea before firing a shot towards the corner of the goal, but Corona at full stretch knocked the ball out for a corner kick. Cruz Azul was left frustrated as the teams went into the half time break.
In the second half Cruz Azul came out pressing the game much more and looked much better. They got more of the possession and kept KC locked in deep in their own end. Cruz Azul looked sure to score in the 55th minute as Mariano Pavone got played in behind KC's defense. 1v1 with Kronberg, the striker rounded KC's goalkeeper but Pavone's shot was cleared off the line by a recovering Opara. On the ensuing corner a moment of controversy as the corner was headed onto Fabian at the back post. His header was blocked by the arm of Feilhaber, which was away from his body. The ball then started looping towards goal, but Seth Sinovic cleared the ball off the line. KC found opportunities going forward few and far between but Zusi got off a good effort in the 64th from about 22 yards from goal. His shot left Corona rooted to the ground, but it hit the cross bar and bounced back into play. Cruz Azul kept pushing the ball up field and KC started to look extremely tired as the minutes ticked by, but KC held on and will travel with the lead to Mexico. It won't be easy, but the confidence from this result will hopefully carry over.
Wizards Man of the Match - Kevin Ellis - Not just because of the goal, but because of his defensive play as well. Cruz Azul went at him all night down KC's right and he did a very good job of keeping their attacks in check. Certainly looked like a guy that will be able to contribute more going forward.
Honorable Mention: Ike Opara, Benny Feilhaber's arm
Player Ratings: Kronberg 6, Ellis 8, Opara 7, Besler 6, Sinovic 7, Rosell 6, Nagamura 6, Feilhaber 5, Zusi 5, Bieler 7, Zizzo 6. Subs Peterson 5, Sapong 4, Dwyer NR.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Match Day CCL: Sporting Need to Start on the Right Foot
Sporting KC return home and return to the CONCACAF Champions League for their first game in the quarterfinals against Mexican side Cruz Azul. The home and away series will see KC head to Mexico next Wednesday for the second leg. Sporting will look to head to Mexico with a couple goal advantage in their hopes of advancing. While a win as a whole would be nice, going to Mexico with a multi-goal advantage would be huge for KC.
Cruz Azul comes into CCL play on the back of their first loss of the Mexican Clausura season, 3-0 to Tigres, a shocking result considering their standing in the league table. Up to that point, Cruz Azul had been 8-0-1 in league play, scoring 18 while allowing just 3. The loss may serve as the wake up call to keep Cruz Azul from coming into this game complacent, especially since the loss occurred with a majority of their starters on the field. I expect that they've traveled with a majority of their first team for this game as well.
Sporting on the other hand rested a few players ahead of this game, or at least that's the assumption. Paulo Nagamura, Chance Myers, and Seth Sinovic all sat out KC's game against Seattle with injuries. The reports out today have Myers and Sinovic both as doubts for tomorrows games. Combine that with Aurelien Collin being suspended for yellow card accumulation and KC could be without three quarters of their best back four with only captain Matt Besler remaining. Personally I feel like the Myers and Sinovic injuries are some gamesmanship by Vermes and I expect one or both to start against the Mexican side. And as for replacing Collin, Ike Opara filled in quite well throughout the 2013 season. Overall though I think we'll see KC throw out the best they can for this game.
Kronberg
Myers - Opara - Besler - Sinovic
Rosell - Nagamura
Feilhaber
Zusi - Bieler - Zizzo
Key Match Up - Sporting KC's defense vs Marco Fabian - Fabian, the Mexican international is going to be a handful for KC to contain. And he's no stranger to scoring at Sporting Park:
)
Number to Remember -2 - That's the number of home and away series that MLS teams have won against Mexican teams in the CONCACAF Champions' League and it's predecessor, the Champions' Cup. The KC Wizards topped Santos Laguna 3-2 on aggregate in 2002, while Seattle topped Tigres by the same 3-2 aggregate scoreline. The other side of that though is both of those series saw the MLS team have the second leg at home, no MLS team has advanced when the Mexican team has had the second leg at home.
PREDICTION - If Sporting KC want to advance they need to get a result at home and they need to win by a couple goals. Cruz Azul is just too good of a team to not take advantage of your home field advantage. They'll need to have better finishing at home than they've shown in the past. I'm just not sure that KC can shut down Cruz Azul's offense enough while being able to produce enough offensively themselves to get a result that will make me comfortable in league two.
SKC - 1 (Bieler)
CA - 1 (Pavone)
Cruz Azul comes into CCL play on the back of their first loss of the Mexican Clausura season, 3-0 to Tigres, a shocking result considering their standing in the league table. Up to that point, Cruz Azul had been 8-0-1 in league play, scoring 18 while allowing just 3. The loss may serve as the wake up call to keep Cruz Azul from coming into this game complacent, especially since the loss occurred with a majority of their starters on the field. I expect that they've traveled with a majority of their first team for this game as well.
Sporting on the other hand rested a few players ahead of this game, or at least that's the assumption. Paulo Nagamura, Chance Myers, and Seth Sinovic all sat out KC's game against Seattle with injuries. The reports out today have Myers and Sinovic both as doubts for tomorrows games. Combine that with Aurelien Collin being suspended for yellow card accumulation and KC could be without three quarters of their best back four with only captain Matt Besler remaining. Personally I feel like the Myers and Sinovic injuries are some gamesmanship by Vermes and I expect one or both to start against the Mexican side. And as for replacing Collin, Ike Opara filled in quite well throughout the 2013 season. Overall though I think we'll see KC throw out the best they can for this game.
Kronberg
Myers - Opara - Besler - Sinovic
Rosell - Nagamura
Feilhaber
Zusi - Bieler - Zizzo
Key Match Up - Sporting KC's defense vs Marco Fabian - Fabian, the Mexican international is going to be a handful for KC to contain. And he's no stranger to scoring at Sporting Park:
)
Number to Remember -2 - That's the number of home and away series that MLS teams have won against Mexican teams in the CONCACAF Champions' League and it's predecessor, the Champions' Cup. The KC Wizards topped Santos Laguna 3-2 on aggregate in 2002, while Seattle topped Tigres by the same 3-2 aggregate scoreline. The other side of that though is both of those series saw the MLS team have the second leg at home, no MLS team has advanced when the Mexican team has had the second leg at home.
PREDICTION - If Sporting KC want to advance they need to get a result at home and they need to win by a couple goals. Cruz Azul is just too good of a team to not take advantage of your home field advantage. They'll need to have better finishing at home than they've shown in the past. I'm just not sure that KC can shut down Cruz Azul's offense enough while being able to produce enough offensively themselves to get a result that will make me comfortable in league two.
SKC - 1 (Bieler)
CA - 1 (Pavone)
Sporting Officially Sign Antonio Rodriguez Dovale
Sporting Kansas City today announced the signing of Spanish midfielder, Toni Rodriguez Dovale. Depending on the arrival of his ITC and P-1 visa he will be added to the roster. He fills the team's fifth of eight international slots.
Dovale joins the team from Celta Vigo. Reports yesterday seemed to indicate that the move to KC could be a loan move until December. Those claims appear to be untrue as Sporting's release says that they signed the midfielder, while prior loans have stated the deal was a loan.
Another rumor running around ahead of the official signing was Dovale's status on the roster. There were questions about whether he would be a designated player or not. As with the loan situation, no mention is made of the player being a designated player. From reading Peter Vermes' quotes about Dovale, he expects him to play mainly as an attacker to start.
Dovale joins the team from Celta Vigo. Reports yesterday seemed to indicate that the move to KC could be a loan move until December. Those claims appear to be untrue as Sporting's release says that they signed the midfielder, while prior loans have stated the deal was a loan.
Another rumor running around ahead of the official signing was Dovale's status on the roster. There were questions about whether he would be a designated player or not. As with the loan situation, no mention is made of the player being a designated player. From reading Peter Vermes' quotes about Dovale, he expects him to play mainly as an attacker to start.
Comets Advance to MISL Championship
For the second year in a row the Missouri Comets beat the Milwaukee Wave in a mini-game to advance to the MISL Championship series. After winning the game on Sunday in Missouri the Comets needed to win one of the two games on the night to advance to the championships.
Game two was a back and forth affair that was tight throughout with no team ever leading by more than three points. The Wave took the lead in the first quarter with a two point goal. Brian Harris gave the Comets the lead in the second quarter on a three point goal, but the Wave retook the lead before half time. The third quarter saw the Comets build their largest lead of the game as Leo Gibson and Bryan Perez both scored to make it 7-4. The fourth quarter saw the Wave close the lead before Vahid Assadpour scored to make it 9-6. The Wave though then scored three unanswered goals to win the first game 12-9.
The one quarter mini-game started shortly after that. The Comets grabbed the lead in the first 30 seconds when Brian Harris scored to give the Comets a 2-0 lead. six minutes in the Comets doubled the lead, again through Harris. He'd just come on the field and the Wave didn't pick him up until it was took late as he beat Marcel Feenstra 1v1 to give the Comets a 4-0 lead. Just before the 10 minute mark though the Wave found a way back into the game. Stefan Stokic attempted to head the ball back to Danny Waltman but put it too high and off the boards above the goal. The ball ended up falling to Ian Bennett who knocked it across to Giuliano Oliviero who touched the ball home past a diving Waltman to make it 4-2. With just over three minutes left though the Comets sealed the game as captain Vahid Assadpour picked up a ball and dribbled the length of the floor before beating Feenstra to make it 6-2. The Comets held on against the Wave's sixth attacker to book themselves a place in the finals against either Syracuse or Baltimore. While the Comets were the only team to beat the Wave this season, Syracuse and Baltimore are two teams that Comets didn't beat this season, going a combined 0-4 against the two teams.
Game two was a back and forth affair that was tight throughout with no team ever leading by more than three points. The Wave took the lead in the first quarter with a two point goal. Brian Harris gave the Comets the lead in the second quarter on a three point goal, but the Wave retook the lead before half time. The third quarter saw the Comets build their largest lead of the game as Leo Gibson and Bryan Perez both scored to make it 7-4. The fourth quarter saw the Wave close the lead before Vahid Assadpour scored to make it 9-6. The Wave though then scored three unanswered goals to win the first game 12-9.
The one quarter mini-game started shortly after that. The Comets grabbed the lead in the first 30 seconds when Brian Harris scored to give the Comets a 2-0 lead. six minutes in the Comets doubled the lead, again through Harris. He'd just come on the field and the Wave didn't pick him up until it was took late as he beat Marcel Feenstra 1v1 to give the Comets a 4-0 lead. Just before the 10 minute mark though the Wave found a way back into the game. Stefan Stokic attempted to head the ball back to Danny Waltman but put it too high and off the boards above the goal. The ball ended up falling to Ian Bennett who knocked it across to Giuliano Oliviero who touched the ball home past a diving Waltman to make it 4-2. With just over three minutes left though the Comets sealed the game as captain Vahid Assadpour picked up a ball and dribbled the length of the floor before beating Feenstra to make it 6-2. The Comets held on against the Wave's sixth attacker to book themselves a place in the finals against either Syracuse or Baltimore. While the Comets were the only team to beat the Wave this season, Syracuse and Baltimore are two teams that Comets didn't beat this season, going a combined 0-4 against the two teams.
Monday, March 10, 2014
Sporting Announce Expanded Television Deal
Sporting Kansas City announced an expansion of the Sporting KC Television Network today. The expansion will see Sporting games that are not on national television broadcasted to portions of nine states around the Midwest. KC already had a deal with KCMI (38 the Spot) to broadcast all 23 of KC's games that are not on national television.
Joining KCMI in broadcasting all 23 games is WIBW out of Topeka, KMTW in Wichita, Cox Channel in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Cox Channel in Omaha, and MyUTV in Sioux Falls, South Dakota (although four of the games will be broadcasted on the same day on tape delay).
Then up to 20 games will be broadcasted in parts of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin on Mediacom (MC22) (5 will air on tape delay in select markets).
Finally, KZOU in Columbia will broadcast 16 games.
So Sporting KC will be all over the place in the Midwest. Without looking up the other team's contracts I'd guess this gives KC one of, if not the largest media footprints in the league.
Compared to just 10 years ago when I remember "watching" a Wizards game at a bar in KC this is fantastic. And by watch I mean follow it live on match tracker after a meeting. The team's attempts to become the regions team with this deal is great, it's similar to the Royals regional radio deal or the Chiefs past where one of their logos even showed them as a regional team.
There are a few questions I've seen. The biggest from fans in those areas is how this affects MLS Live or Direct Kick. Whether the black out rules will apply, if fans won't be able to watch the game, having previously purchased the plan, in part, to make sure they would be able to see Sporting to begin with.
Joining KCMI in broadcasting all 23 games is WIBW out of Topeka, KMTW in Wichita, Cox Channel in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Cox Channel in Omaha, and MyUTV in Sioux Falls, South Dakota (although four of the games will be broadcasted on the same day on tape delay).
Then up to 20 games will be broadcasted in parts of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin on Mediacom (MC22) (5 will air on tape delay in select markets).
Finally, KZOU in Columbia will broadcast 16 games.
So Sporting KC will be all over the place in the Midwest. Without looking up the other team's contracts I'd guess this gives KC one of, if not the largest media footprints in the league.
Compared to just 10 years ago when I remember "watching" a Wizards game at a bar in KC this is fantastic. And by watch I mean follow it live on match tracker after a meeting. The team's attempts to become the regions team with this deal is great, it's similar to the Royals regional radio deal or the Chiefs past where one of their logos even showed them as a regional team.
There are a few questions I've seen. The biggest from fans in those areas is how this affects MLS Live or Direct Kick. Whether the black out rules will apply, if fans won't be able to watch the game, having previously purchased the plan, in part, to make sure they would be able to see Sporting to begin with.
Sporting Closing in on Signing Toni Rodriguez?
It looks like KC is on the verge of bringing in another new player based on reports out of Spain. The rumor out of Spain today is that Celta Vigo player Toni Rodriguez is in Kansas City for a medical ahead of signing with the club. Reports the last few weeks have talked about Rodriguez wanting Celta Vigo to tear up the contract the player has with the club so that he can make the move to KC. With him recently signing a new contract that apparently has him under contract to the Spanish club until 2017, it's not surprising that they wouldn't want to do that. Reports are that a deal is being finalized at this time.
Today's article makes it sound like the deal for Rodriguez would be a loan through December. At that point the team could decide if they want to keep Rodriguez the same way they ended up keeping Jimmy Medranda after his loan move last year.
Combine the articles out of Spain reporting that Rodriguez is in the US with Robb Heineman's Tweet today and you can connect the dots. A player that's been linked with KC is in town while Robb says we're on the verge of a nice new signing. Include the fact that Peter Vermes has said Rodriguez is a guy they've looked at and it's easy to make the guess that Rodriguez is set to be a Sporting KC player.
Sunday, March 09, 2014
Gibson and Waltman Lead Comets as They Take Game 1 vs the Wave
From the Comets
The Missouri Comets started off the 2014 Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) Playoffs with a magnificent 20-6 win over the Milwaukee Wave in front of 4,774 excited fans at the Independence Events Center. Leo Gibson set a Comets playoff record with 11 points in the game. The Wave were held scoreless until late in the fourth quarter as the Comets claimed victory by the score of 20-6. Missouri now leads the MISL Semi-Finals series 1-0.
The Missouri Comets started off the 2014 Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) Playoffs with a magnificent 20-6 win over the Milwaukee Wave in front of 4,774 excited fans at the Independence Events Center. Leo Gibson set a Comets playoff record with 11 points in the game. The Wave were held scoreless until late in the fourth quarter as the Comets claimed victory by the score of 20-6. Missouri now leads the MISL Semi-Finals series 1-0.
Missouri
set the tone in this match early. Max Touloute scored just over four
minutes into play on a great pass from Brian Harris. Gibson followed
with his first goal not even a minute later. Stefan St. Louis notched
the only goal of the second quarter after Lucas Rodriguez brought the
ball the length of the field and drew the defense to him at the top of
the arc. A wide open St. Louis easily tapped home the score, giving the
Comets a 6-0 halftime lead
In
the second half, a chaotic scrum in front of the Milwaukee net led to
Gibson’s second goal. John Sosa was credited with the other goal when
Ramone Palmer stole the ball from the Wave defense at midfield and found
him for the score.
The
fourth quarter saw the most action on the scoreboard. Milwaukee’s
goalkeeper, Marcel Feenstra, began to push well up into the midfield to
try and boost his team’s struggling offense. Noticing this, Gibson
launched a long arcing shot from his own yellow line that bounced past
Feenstra for the first three-point goal, and his third score of the
night. Nearly three minutes later, Gibson again took advantage of the
Wave’s high-pressured attack, taking a clearance from Bryan Perez the
length of the field and beating Feenstra 1-on-1.
Milwaukee
finally netted a goal from Philip Suprise in the seventh minute of the
final frame, then Hewerton and Pablo would add two more in the final two
minutes, but in-between, the Comets got a goal from Touloute and
Gibson’s fifth goal of the night. Missouri’s high-powered attack was
just too much for the Wave and the Comets rolled to a Game One victory,
20-6.
Game Two of the MISL Semi-Finals moves to Milwaukee’s U.S. Cellular Arena tomorrow
night. A win would earn the Comets their second straight trip to the
MISL Championship. Should the Wave win, a 15-minute mini game is played
directly after Game Two to decide series.
Comets fans are invited to join Comets Nation Fan Club at Coach’s Bar & Grille on 103rd & Wornall for the team’s Official Watch Party. The game can also be viewed online at CometsIndoorSoccer.com/Live-
Sunday After Stats
Aurelien Collin made his 100th start in all competitions for KC. He's the 28th player to hit that mark for KC.
In the 75th minute, Graham Zusi moved past Chance Myers and into 17th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 13,525
In the 83rd minute, Zusi moved past Sasha Victorine and into 20th place for minutes played in league play for KC's history. Zusi finished the game with 8,628 minutes played.
Zusi also made his 124th league appearance for KC, breaking his tie with Chris Brown for 15th place on that list.
Zusi made his 112th start in all competitions, tying him with Myers for 19th on that list.
Matt Besler made his 145th start in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Josh Wolff for 11th on that list.
In the 75th minute, Graham Zusi moved past Chance Myers and into 17th place for minutes played in all competitions, he finished the game with 13,525
In the 83rd minute, Zusi moved past Sasha Victorine and into 20th place for minutes played in league play for KC's history. Zusi finished the game with 8,628 minutes played.
Zusi also made his 124th league appearance for KC, breaking his tie with Chris Brown for 15th place on that list.
Zusi made his 112th start in all competitions, tying him with Myers for 19th on that list.
Matt Besler made his 145th start in all competitions for KC, breaking his tie with Josh Wolff for 11th on that list.
Saturday, March 08, 2014
Sporting Fall to Seattle Late. Again.
It's becoming a bad habit for Sporting KC, allowing the Seattle Sounders to get a win on late goals. For the sixth time today Sporting allowed a goal in second half stoppage time that allowed the Sounders to take all three point. This time the goal came from Chad Barrett as he poked a shot home after a scramble in front of goal.
Kansas City came out with a few surprises in their lineup, likely with an eye towards Wednesday and a CONCACAF Champions League match up with Cruz Azul. Chance Myers, Seth Sinovic, Paulo Nagamura, Oriol Rosell, and Claudio Bieler were either left on the bench or left in Kansas City replaced by Josh Gardner, Kevin Ellis, Lawrence Olum, Dom Dwyer, and Jacob Peterson. Even with a number of reserves in the lineup KC still was able to bring the game to Seattle. In just the second minute, Graham Zusi forced a save from Seattle's Stefan Frei. The rebound fell into the path of an onrushing Dwyer but Frei recovered well and was able to get enough of Dwyer's shot to push it wide. KC continued to be aggressive in the early going, testing Seattle's back line. Seattle's first really good chance came in the 31st minute when a Marco Pappa shot was deflected, but Eric Kronberg saw the deflection well and pushed it out for a corner. Shortly after that opportunity KC should have grabbed the lead. Off a Kronberg goal kick, the ball was flicked on into the path of Zusi. Zusi played the ball to Dwyer who cut inside his defender and fired a shot on goal. Frei parried the shot away but right into the path of Peterson. The forward though couldn't get over the ball enough on his volley attempt and sent the ball well over the goal. Dwyer had another opportunity a few minutes later after getting played on by CJ Sapong. Dwyer's effort though took a deflection and skipped wide of the far post.
The second half saw the Sounders come out and push the game more as the home side. In the 53rd minute, the Sounders almost grabbed the lead. Lamar Neagle received a through ball as Gardner missed on a slide to intercept the pass. Neagle dribbled in on goal and fired a shot that Kronberg got enough of to push off target, but right into the path of Obafemi Martins. Martins though couldn't make enough contact to turn the shot on goal. KC struggled to get out of their own end and the Sounders continued to press. Kenny Cooper fired an effort just wide of Kronberg's far post in the 69th minute. Sporting continued to try to push the game forward but found their opportunities to move forward lacking. Early in stoppage timie they did get an opportunity as Frei missed on collecting a long ball when challenged by Sapong. The ball fell to Dwyer but he ended up having his shot deflected wide of the goal. Then in the 94th minute, Osvaldo Alonso won the ball in the Seattle end of the field and raced forward. He picked out Clint Dempsey who ended up playing the ball wide to Sean Okoli. Okoli crossed the ball into the middle towards Martins, but it didn't get to him, instead Kronberg and Matt Besler collided and the ball went up into the air. the ball fell to Dempsey, whose header clanged off the cross bar. His second attempt at a volley did get enough on it, but it fell to Barrett who knocked the ball home to give the Sounders the lead at the death. Only seconds after the restart the final whistle blew ending the game.
Wizards Man of the Match - Benny Feilhaber - Playing a bit deeper than normal, Feilhaber did a good job of breaking up the Sounders' attacks. His absence was noticed especially on the Sounders goal as Alonso ran right through the area that Feilhaber would have likely been filling if he hadn't just been subbed out of the game.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Ellis 5, Besler 6, Collin 6, Gardner 5, Olum 5, Feilhaber 6, Zusi 5, Sapong 4, Dwyer 5, Peterson 4. Subs Zizzo 4, Jerome NR, Opara NR.
Kansas City came out with a few surprises in their lineup, likely with an eye towards Wednesday and a CONCACAF Champions League match up with Cruz Azul. Chance Myers, Seth Sinovic, Paulo Nagamura, Oriol Rosell, and Claudio Bieler were either left on the bench or left in Kansas City replaced by Josh Gardner, Kevin Ellis, Lawrence Olum, Dom Dwyer, and Jacob Peterson. Even with a number of reserves in the lineup KC still was able to bring the game to Seattle. In just the second minute, Graham Zusi forced a save from Seattle's Stefan Frei. The rebound fell into the path of an onrushing Dwyer but Frei recovered well and was able to get enough of Dwyer's shot to push it wide. KC continued to be aggressive in the early going, testing Seattle's back line. Seattle's first really good chance came in the 31st minute when a Marco Pappa shot was deflected, but Eric Kronberg saw the deflection well and pushed it out for a corner. Shortly after that opportunity KC should have grabbed the lead. Off a Kronberg goal kick, the ball was flicked on into the path of Zusi. Zusi played the ball to Dwyer who cut inside his defender and fired a shot on goal. Frei parried the shot away but right into the path of Peterson. The forward though couldn't get over the ball enough on his volley attempt and sent the ball well over the goal. Dwyer had another opportunity a few minutes later after getting played on by CJ Sapong. Dwyer's effort though took a deflection and skipped wide of the far post.
The second half saw the Sounders come out and push the game more as the home side. In the 53rd minute, the Sounders almost grabbed the lead. Lamar Neagle received a through ball as Gardner missed on a slide to intercept the pass. Neagle dribbled in on goal and fired a shot that Kronberg got enough of to push off target, but right into the path of Obafemi Martins. Martins though couldn't make enough contact to turn the shot on goal. KC struggled to get out of their own end and the Sounders continued to press. Kenny Cooper fired an effort just wide of Kronberg's far post in the 69th minute. Sporting continued to try to push the game forward but found their opportunities to move forward lacking. Early in stoppage timie they did get an opportunity as Frei missed on collecting a long ball when challenged by Sapong. The ball fell to Dwyer but he ended up having his shot deflected wide of the goal. Then in the 94th minute, Osvaldo Alonso won the ball in the Seattle end of the field and raced forward. He picked out Clint Dempsey who ended up playing the ball wide to Sean Okoli. Okoli crossed the ball into the middle towards Martins, but it didn't get to him, instead Kronberg and Matt Besler collided and the ball went up into the air. the ball fell to Dempsey, whose header clanged off the cross bar. His second attempt at a volley did get enough on it, but it fell to Barrett who knocked the ball home to give the Sounders the lead at the death. Only seconds after the restart the final whistle blew ending the game.
Wizards Man of the Match - Benny Feilhaber - Playing a bit deeper than normal, Feilhaber did a good job of breaking up the Sounders' attacks. His absence was noticed especially on the Sounders goal as Alonso ran right through the area that Feilhaber would have likely been filling if he hadn't just been subbed out of the game.
Player Ratings - Kronberg 6, Ellis 5, Besler 6, Collin 6, Gardner 5, Olum 5, Feilhaber 6, Zusi 5, Sapong 4, Dwyer 5, Peterson 4. Subs Zizzo 4, Jerome NR, Opara NR.
Friday, March 07, 2014
Match Day 1: Title Defense Begins
By the time KC takes the field tomorrow in Seattle against the Sounders to start the 2014 MLS season, it will have been just 91 days since Sporting KC lifted the 2013 MLS Cup. They were the last ones off the field in 2013 and will be one of the first teams back on it as they and the Sounders are the first game of the 2014 season.
The Sounders made a number of roster changes from last season. They'll have a new starting goalkeeper after parting ways with Michael Gspurning. The likely starter is Stefan Frei who came over from Toronto, but Sigi Schmid has not ruled out starting veteran Marcus Hahnemann. They've also seen changes over the rest of the field too, bringing in long time Columbus Crew defender, Chad Marshall, Chicago Fire defender Jalil Anibaba, and acquired former Fire midfielder Marco Pappa via allocation. On the other hand they've seen the departure of Eddie Johnson to DC. One question for Seattle tomorrow will be what role designated player Clint Dempsey will play. Schmid said the US international will play a role, but he's missed all of preseason while playing with Fulham and traveled from Cyprus where he was with the US team. So him playing isn't a surprise, but it'll be interesting to see how much he plays.
While Seattle has made a number of roster changes, Kansas City has done the opposite. Ahead of tomorrow's game KC has only brought in three new players this year, Andy Gruenebaum, Sal Zizzo, and third round draft pick, Alex Martinez. The rest of the roster is returning from last year. That cohesion should play to Kansas City's advantage tomorrow in the opener. But KC also has one eye on Wednesday when Sporting will take on Cruz Azul in the CONCACAF Champions League. With an eye towards that a few first team players could rest ahead of the game. Specifically some of KC's players struggling with early season injuries. Chance Myers, Paulo Nagamura, and Seth Sinovic are all listed as questionable. I doubt that all three of them will play in the game tomorrow.
Key Match Up - Dom Dwyer vs Chad Marshall - With Bunbury gone, Dwyer probably has the most speed of any of KC's forwards. I think Peter Vermes goes with that little extra speed against Seattle's back line and saves Claudio Bieler for Wednesday against Cruz Azul.
Number to Remember - 1 - That's the number of wins KC has against Seattle since they came into the league. The lone win came in the teams' fist meeting when Davy Arnaud scored from long range as KC won 1-0. Since then it's been all Seattle, including a number of games where they've scored the winner late, including last year at Sporting Park.
PREDICTION - It's crazy that the season is already here and that KC is back in action. But the big thing that KC has going for it is the familiarity of the player son the team. While some lineup changes may occur, the majority of the roster knows Vermes' system already and has played at least a year under it and know what to expect. That will be the big thing that helps KC early on this year. Hopefully they can take advantage of it tomorrow on the road. But I think taking a point out of Seattle again is a good expectation.
SKC - 1 (Dwyer)
SEA - 1 (Martins)
The Sounders made a number of roster changes from last season. They'll have a new starting goalkeeper after parting ways with Michael Gspurning. The likely starter is Stefan Frei who came over from Toronto, but Sigi Schmid has not ruled out starting veteran Marcus Hahnemann. They've also seen changes over the rest of the field too, bringing in long time Columbus Crew defender, Chad Marshall, Chicago Fire defender Jalil Anibaba, and acquired former Fire midfielder Marco Pappa via allocation. On the other hand they've seen the departure of Eddie Johnson to DC. One question for Seattle tomorrow will be what role designated player Clint Dempsey will play. Schmid said the US international will play a role, but he's missed all of preseason while playing with Fulham and traveled from Cyprus where he was with the US team. So him playing isn't a surprise, but it'll be interesting to see how much he plays.
While Seattle has made a number of roster changes, Kansas City has done the opposite. Ahead of tomorrow's game KC has only brought in three new players this year, Andy Gruenebaum, Sal Zizzo, and third round draft pick, Alex Martinez. The rest of the roster is returning from last year. That cohesion should play to Kansas City's advantage tomorrow in the opener. But KC also has one eye on Wednesday when Sporting will take on Cruz Azul in the CONCACAF Champions League. With an eye towards that a few first team players could rest ahead of the game. Specifically some of KC's players struggling with early season injuries. Chance Myers, Paulo Nagamura, and Seth Sinovic are all listed as questionable. I doubt that all three of them will play in the game tomorrow.
Kronberg
Gardner - Collin - Besler - Sinovic
Rosell - Olum
Feilhaber
Zusi - Dwyer - Zizzo
Key Match Up - Dom Dwyer vs Chad Marshall - With Bunbury gone, Dwyer probably has the most speed of any of KC's forwards. I think Peter Vermes goes with that little extra speed against Seattle's back line and saves Claudio Bieler for Wednesday against Cruz Azul.
Number to Remember - 1 - That's the number of wins KC has against Seattle since they came into the league. The lone win came in the teams' fist meeting when Davy Arnaud scored from long range as KC won 1-0. Since then it's been all Seattle, including a number of games where they've scored the winner late, including last year at Sporting Park.
PREDICTION - It's crazy that the season is already here and that KC is back in action. But the big thing that KC has going for it is the familiarity of the player son the team. While some lineup changes may occur, the majority of the roster knows Vermes' system already and has played at least a year under it and know what to expect. That will be the big thing that helps KC early on this year. Hopefully they can take advantage of it tomorrow on the road. But I think taking a point out of Seattle again is a good expectation.
SKC - 1 (Dwyer)
SEA - 1 (Martins)
Thursday, March 06, 2014
A Look at the Depth Chart - Forwards
Final part of the depth chart for Sporting KC, up top. The three man forward line has been key for Peter Vermes high pressure 4-3-3. He requires a lot of work out of the forwads to be the first line of defense.
Center Forward
1. Claudio Bieler
2. Dom Dwyer
3. CJ Sapong
4. Soony Saad
Bieler has come into the 2014 season with a different level of fitness. He has looked more active and more willing to buy into Vermes' vision for the center forward in the 4-3-3 system. His six assists in preseason are a big example of that. While Dwyer is number 2, he is not far at all behind Bieler. At this point he's right below Bieler and will get plenty of time starting in place of the DP. Behind those two, Sapong can slide into the middle and play that position, as can Saad. Both of those two have converted more into wingers, with playing in the middle being the position they are more comfortable with.
Right Forward
1. Graham Zusi
2. Jacob Peterson
3. Soony Saad
Unsigned factor - Adnan Gabeljic
This is Zusi's primary position in KC's system. He's able to cut inside and work through the middle as well as was seen on KC's second goal against Houston. Behind Zusi is the ever versatile Peterson who plays either of the wing forward positions. Behind them is Saad whose missed quite a bit of preseason with Lebanon but will look to build on a 2013 season that saw him have a bit of a break out season. Then there's Gabeljic, KC's second round pick who hasn't signed with the team yet but has shown some very good speed out wide for KC.
Left Forward
1. Sal Zizzo
2. CJ Sapong
3. Jacob Peterson
4. Soony Saad
With the way preseason has gone I feel that Zizzo has passed up Sapong as the starter out wide on the left hand side. Zizzo's just looked better in preseason and appears set to replace Sapong as the starter on the left. Sapong wasn't helped but the injury he picked up late in preseason. But at this time I think Zizzo and his ability as more of a true winger has him ahead of the former rookie of the year. Then you have Peterson whose work rate continues to see him get minutes. Behind him right now again on this side is Saad again who isn't that far behind Peterson, it's more of a situation thing.
Some questions about the forward depth.
Has Bieler really bought in to Vermes' system?
If he really has and the four goals, six assists performance in preseason is a sign of things to come, KC is going to be extremely dangerous this season. A motivated Bieler that is scoring and setting up his teammates will see him compete for the Golden Boot and also see him as a dark horse candidate for MVP.
Is the right wing Zusi's best position?
This is a question many KC fans have asked. Zusi has spent time both on the wing and in the middle of midfield. He's had performances for each that have seen fans call for him to move to the other. The wing position though has been in spot on the US team and it's a system similar to Vermes' 4-3-3.
Center Forward
1. Claudio Bieler
2. Dom Dwyer
3. CJ Sapong
4. Soony Saad
Bieler has come into the 2014 season with a different level of fitness. He has looked more active and more willing to buy into Vermes' vision for the center forward in the 4-3-3 system. His six assists in preseason are a big example of that. While Dwyer is number 2, he is not far at all behind Bieler. At this point he's right below Bieler and will get plenty of time starting in place of the DP. Behind those two, Sapong can slide into the middle and play that position, as can Saad. Both of those two have converted more into wingers, with playing in the middle being the position they are more comfortable with.
Right Forward
1. Graham Zusi
2. Jacob Peterson
3. Soony Saad
Unsigned factor - Adnan Gabeljic
This is Zusi's primary position in KC's system. He's able to cut inside and work through the middle as well as was seen on KC's second goal against Houston. Behind Zusi is the ever versatile Peterson who plays either of the wing forward positions. Behind them is Saad whose missed quite a bit of preseason with Lebanon but will look to build on a 2013 season that saw him have a bit of a break out season. Then there's Gabeljic, KC's second round pick who hasn't signed with the team yet but has shown some very good speed out wide for KC.
Left Forward
1. Sal Zizzo
2. CJ Sapong
3. Jacob Peterson
4. Soony Saad
With the way preseason has gone I feel that Zizzo has passed up Sapong as the starter out wide on the left hand side. Zizzo's just looked better in preseason and appears set to replace Sapong as the starter on the left. Sapong wasn't helped but the injury he picked up late in preseason. But at this time I think Zizzo and his ability as more of a true winger has him ahead of the former rookie of the year. Then you have Peterson whose work rate continues to see him get minutes. Behind him right now again on this side is Saad again who isn't that far behind Peterson, it's more of a situation thing.
Some questions about the forward depth.
Has Bieler really bought in to Vermes' system?
If he really has and the four goals, six assists performance in preseason is a sign of things to come, KC is going to be extremely dangerous this season. A motivated Bieler that is scoring and setting up his teammates will see him compete for the Golden Boot and also see him as a dark horse candidate for MVP.
Is the right wing Zusi's best position?
This is a question many KC fans have asked. Zusi has spent time both on the wing and in the middle of midfield. He's had performances for each that have seen fans call for him to move to the other. The wing position though has been in spot on the US team and it's a system similar to Vermes' 4-3-3.
A Look at the Depth Chart - Midfield
Continuing to work forward through Kansas City's team, we move on to the midfield. KC saw no movement out from the midfield position, and only one addition, the signing of third round draft pick, Alex Martinez. As with the defense and the forwards, it's been all about the consistency for KC's midfield.
Attacking Midfielder
1. Benny Feilhaber
2. Graham Zusi
3. Claudio Bieler
4. Jimmy Medranda
5. Alex Martinez
Feilhaber gets the nod ahead of Zusi as the number one on this depth chart because in KC's "Best XI" Zusi's number 1 position is elsewhere on the field. Bieler played a few games in the attacking midfield spot during preseason and didn't look completely out of place. For me though Bieler being back in midfield puts a lot more pressure on the remaining two midfield spots in my opinion for it to be really succession for KC. Medranda looked really impressive during the preseason for KC and looks set to get quite a few minutes in the upcoming season with all the competitions. Martinez rounds out the attacking midfield position. The rookie has also been impressive this preseason, picking up three assists for KC.
Box to Box Midfielder
1. Paulo Nagamura
2. Benny Feilhaber
3. Oriol Rosell
4. Mikey Lopez
5. Christian Duke
Nagamura's return to the midfield helped to propel Kansas City to MLS Cup this past year. His play was key and keeps him at the top of the depth chart. Behind him is Feilhaber and Rosell, both of whom had time playing in the role while Nagamura was out. Feilhaber when Zusi dropped into the midfield and Rosell when Olum played. Behind those two comes last year's first round pick, Lopez. The Generation Adidas player only played one game for KC last year, in the US Open Cup. Without US youth team commitments, Lopez should spend more time with KC and get more game action. Duke spent most of last season on loan to Orlando City where he got plenty of game experience. All of which will come in handy with the number of games KC already has on the schedule and questions on how healthy Nagamura can stay.
Holding Midfielder
1. Oriol Rosell
2. Lawrence Olum
3. Paulo Nagamura
Rosell is the primary starter here, establishing himself in the role last year, taking over for Julio Cesar. When Rosell was rested, or as in MLS Cup injured, Olum filled in quite admirably. I had my doubts about him, especially after he'd been the team's third center back for the majority of the 2012 season. But he did quite well for himself. Behind those two the next in line is Nagamura dropping into the role while KC goes with a more attacking midfield.
While the midfield has been consistent, there are still some questions.
Where is Peterson Joseph on the list?
I've left Peterson Joseph off my depth chart entirely at this moment because of the continued questions about his health and when he'll play again. I personally will be surprised if he is off injured reserve at all this season. At this point he needs to make sure he's healthy enough to leave the next 40-50 years.
Can Nagamura stay healthy?
Another question of a players health. Nagamura was limited to just 17 league games. He'd played 27 in league play the year before. Nagamura just turned 31, and there has to be questions of how much he'll be able to contribute. This question had led many KC fans to wonder if the acquisition of a box to box midfielder was not a key for KC's offseason. KC made no acquisition, at least not yet, so the hope is that Nagamura can provide that bite more this season in midfield.
Which Feilhaber shows up?
Feilhaber had a fantastic playoff run, his game against Houston in KC was his best in a KC uniform. But at times during the season he was invisible and not involved in play. The question is which one will show up for KC the majority of the season. With Zusi set to miss a number of games while away with the US team, Feilhaber will be expected to fill that playmaking role even more (of course that's assuming Feilhaber isn't called up). KC will need the Feilhaber from the playoffs to show up more.
Attacking Midfielder
1. Benny Feilhaber
2. Graham Zusi
3. Claudio Bieler
4. Jimmy Medranda
5. Alex Martinez
Feilhaber gets the nod ahead of Zusi as the number one on this depth chart because in KC's "Best XI" Zusi's number 1 position is elsewhere on the field. Bieler played a few games in the attacking midfield spot during preseason and didn't look completely out of place. For me though Bieler being back in midfield puts a lot more pressure on the remaining two midfield spots in my opinion for it to be really succession for KC. Medranda looked really impressive during the preseason for KC and looks set to get quite a few minutes in the upcoming season with all the competitions. Martinez rounds out the attacking midfield position. The rookie has also been impressive this preseason, picking up three assists for KC.
Box to Box Midfielder
1. Paulo Nagamura
2. Benny Feilhaber
3. Oriol Rosell
4. Mikey Lopez
5. Christian Duke
Nagamura's return to the midfield helped to propel Kansas City to MLS Cup this past year. His play was key and keeps him at the top of the depth chart. Behind him is Feilhaber and Rosell, both of whom had time playing in the role while Nagamura was out. Feilhaber when Zusi dropped into the midfield and Rosell when Olum played. Behind those two comes last year's first round pick, Lopez. The Generation Adidas player only played one game for KC last year, in the US Open Cup. Without US youth team commitments, Lopez should spend more time with KC and get more game action. Duke spent most of last season on loan to Orlando City where he got plenty of game experience. All of which will come in handy with the number of games KC already has on the schedule and questions on how healthy Nagamura can stay.
Holding Midfielder
1. Oriol Rosell
2. Lawrence Olum
3. Paulo Nagamura
Rosell is the primary starter here, establishing himself in the role last year, taking over for Julio Cesar. When Rosell was rested, or as in MLS Cup injured, Olum filled in quite admirably. I had my doubts about him, especially after he'd been the team's third center back for the majority of the 2012 season. But he did quite well for himself. Behind those two the next in line is Nagamura dropping into the role while KC goes with a more attacking midfield.
While the midfield has been consistent, there are still some questions.
Where is Peterson Joseph on the list?
I've left Peterson Joseph off my depth chart entirely at this moment because of the continued questions about his health and when he'll play again. I personally will be surprised if he is off injured reserve at all this season. At this point he needs to make sure he's healthy enough to leave the next 40-50 years.
Can Nagamura stay healthy?
Another question of a players health. Nagamura was limited to just 17 league games. He'd played 27 in league play the year before. Nagamura just turned 31, and there has to be questions of how much he'll be able to contribute. This question had led many KC fans to wonder if the acquisition of a box to box midfielder was not a key for KC's offseason. KC made no acquisition, at least not yet, so the hope is that Nagamura can provide that bite more this season in midfield.
Which Feilhaber shows up?
Feilhaber had a fantastic playoff run, his game against Houston in KC was his best in a KC uniform. But at times during the season he was invisible and not involved in play. The question is which one will show up for KC the majority of the season. With Zusi set to miss a number of games while away with the US team, Feilhaber will be expected to fill that playmaking role even more (of course that's assuming Feilhaber isn't called up). KC will need the Feilhaber from the playoffs to show up more.
Wednesday, March 05, 2014
Espinoza Misses Friendly with Injury - Former SKC Wizards Update
Another FIFA international match day is finishing up, but former midfielder, Roger Espinoza didn't get to participate. Espinoza was called up for Honduras' friendly tonight against Venezuela, but had to pull out of the match after picking up an injury while playing for his club side, Wigan. Also this week, former defender, Neven Markovic scored his first goal for Swiss side, Servette FC.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Scored a goal in Baltimore's 18-2 win over Pennsylvania.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 3-0 win over Biel-Bienne.
Vicente Arze - FK Hoverla Uzhhorod - Ukraine - Start of season delayed by unrest in Ukraine
Federico Bessone - Millwall - England - Did not dress in Millwall's 1-0 loss to Brighton.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 59 minutes in Chivas' 0-0 draw with Tigres.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - No game this week.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Bengaluru's 3-2 loss to Rangdajied United.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in UAI's 2-1 loss to Villa Dalmine.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - No game this week.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Started and played 90 minutes in Deportivo's 3-1 win over Real Cartagena.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Did not dress in Wigan's 4-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 77 minutes in Tijuana's 1-1 draw with Veracruz.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in Boavista's 2-1 win over Frigurguense.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 1-0 loss to Revan.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Started and played 90 minutes in Middlesbrough's 1-0 loss to Sheffield Wednesday.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 74 minutes in San Martin's 3-2 loss to UTC Cajamarca.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Servette's 3-0 win over Biel-Bienne.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 87 minutes in Armenia's 2-0 loss to Russia.
Michal Mravec - Podbeskidzie - Poland - Dressed but did not play in Podbeskidzie's 0-0 draw with Pogon Szczecin.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Season started 4/6
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - Started and played 90 minutes in Ross County's 1-1 draw with Patrick Thistle.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Started and played 66 minutes in Sarajevo's 1-0 loss to Celik.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 63 minutes in Munster's 1-1 draw against Osnabruck.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 1-1 draw with Tucanes.
Here's the rest of this week's update.
Active without a club or unknown
Jamar Beasley
Jose Burciaga
Julio Cesar
Edson Elcock
Brian Fekete
Aaron Hohlbein
Mike Jones
Scott Sealy
Khari Stephenson
Shavar Thomas
Diego Walsh
Konrad Warzycha
MLS
Davy Arnaud - DC - Offseason.
Teal Bunbury - New England - Offseason.
Bobby Convey - New York - Offseason.
Luis Gil - Salt Lake - Offseason.
Michael Harrington - Portland - Offseason.
Jack Jewsbury - Portland - Offseason.
Eddie Johnson - DC - Offseason.
Chris Konopka - Toronto - Offseason
Rauwshan McKenzie - Portland - Offseason.
Tyson Wahl - Columbus - Offseason
NASL
Stefan Antonijevic - Fort Lauderdale - Offseason.
USL
Cyprian Hedrick - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Neal Kitson - Phoenix - Offseason.
Kyle Miller - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Nelson Pizarro - Los Angeles - Offseason.
Mike Reidy - Rochester - Offseason.
Michael Thomas - Oklahoma City - Offseason.
Yomby William - Richmond - Offseason.
John Wilson - Charleston - Offseason.
PDL
Scott Angevine - Des Moines - Offseason
Other
Birahim Diop - New England Force
Indoor
Pat Healey - Baltimore - Scored a goal in Baltimore's 18-2 win over Pennsylvania.
International
Korede Aiyegbusi - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes in Servette's 3-0 win over Biel-Bienne.
Vicente Arze - FK Hoverla Uzhhorod - Ukraine - Start of season delayed by unrest in Ukraine
Federico Bessone - Millwall - England - Did not dress in Millwall's 1-0 loss to Brighton.
Omar Bravo - Chivas - Mexico - Started and played 59 minutes in Chivas' 0-0 draw with Tigres.
Mitchell Cardenas - Atlético Coatzacoalcos - Mexico - No game this week.
Sunil Chhetri - Bengaluru - India - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Bengaluru's 3-2 loss to Rangdajied United.
Eloy Colombano - UAI Urquiza - Argentina - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in UAI's 2-1 loss to Villa Dalmine.
Daneil Cyrus - W Connection - Trinidad - No game this week.
Pablo Escobar - Cúcuta Deportivo - Colombia - Started and played 90 minutes in Deportivo's 3-1 win over Real Cartagena.
Roger Espinoza - Wigan - England - Did not dress in Wigan's 4-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
Herculez Gomez - Tijuana - Mexico - Started and played 77 minutes in Tijuana's 1-1 draw with Veracruz.
Jermaine Hue - Harbour View - Jamaica - Suspended
Jeferson - Boavista - Brazil - Came off the bench and played 45 minutes in Boavista's 2-1 win over Frigurguense.
Will John - AZAL - Azerbaijan - Started and played 90 minutes in Azal's 1-0 loss to Revan.
Kei Kamara - Middlesbrough - England - Started and played 90 minutes in Middlesbrough's 1-0 loss to Sheffield Wednesday.
Igor Kostrov - Slavia - Belarus - Offseason.
Carlos Marinelli - Universidad San Martin - Peru - Started and played 74 minutes in San Martin's 3-2 loss to UTC Cajamarca.
Neven Markovic - Servette FC - Switzerland - Started and played 90 minutes, scoring a goal in Servette's 3-0 win over Biel-Bienne.
Yura Movsisyan - Spartak Moscow - Russia - Started and played 87 minutes in Armenia's 2-0 loss to Russia.
Michal Mravec - Podbeskidzie - Poland - Dressed but did not play in Podbeskidzie's 0-0 draw with Pogon Szczecin.
Akeem Priestly - RoPS - Finland - Season started 4/6
Yann Songo'o - Ross County (Blackburn) - Scotland (England) - Started and played 90 minutes in Ross County's 1-1 draw with Patrick Thistle.
Milos Stojcev - FK Sarajevo - Bosnia - Started and played 66 minutes in Sarajevo's 1-0 loss to Celik.
Matt Taylor - Preußen Münster - Germany - Started and played 63 minutes in Munster's 1-1 draw against Osnabruck.
Ivan Trujillo - Deportivo Lara - Venezuela - Did not play in Lara's 1-1 draw with Tucanes.
Saad and Jerome Earn Caps on International Match Day
Sporting KC's Soony Saad and Mechack Jerome both added to their cap total today in international matches for their countries.
Saad had the more important match of the two as Lebanon was hoping to qualify for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. They needed a win against Thailand and help from China who played Iraq to qualify. Unfortunately China lost 3-1 to Iraq and Lebanon was eliminated. Lebanon though finished the qualifying cycle on a high as they took care of their opponent 5-2. Saad scored what proved to be the game winner one minute into first half stoppage time. The goal, Saad's second for Lebanon and first in a competitive match made the score 3-1. Lebanon scored two more in the second half before Thailand scored one to close the gap to 5-2.
You can see his goal at the 1:39 mark below
While Saad's was the more important game, Jerome's may have been more historic. Haiti played in Kosovo in the first FIFA sanctioned friendly for the Serbian territory that declared it's independence from Serbia in 2008 but has yet to officially be recognized. Jerome earned another cap in the 0-0 draw as the two teams played in front of a sellout crowd of 18,000.
Saad had the more important match of the two as Lebanon was hoping to qualify for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. They needed a win against Thailand and help from China who played Iraq to qualify. Unfortunately China lost 3-1 to Iraq and Lebanon was eliminated. Lebanon though finished the qualifying cycle on a high as they took care of their opponent 5-2. Saad scored what proved to be the game winner one minute into first half stoppage time. The goal, Saad's second for Lebanon and first in a competitive match made the score 3-1. Lebanon scored two more in the second half before Thailand scored one to close the gap to 5-2.
You can see his goal at the 1:39 mark below
While Saad's was the more important game, Jerome's may have been more historic. Haiti played in Kosovo in the first FIFA sanctioned friendly for the Serbian territory that declared it's independence from Serbia in 2008 but has yet to officially be recognized. Jerome earned another cap in the 0-0 draw as the two teams played in front of a sellout crowd of 18,000.
Sporting Chasing Left Sided Spanish Player
Yesterday morning I woke up to a Tweet from Sergio Gutierrez, an editor for FutbolMLS.net stating that KC was interested in left sided Spanish player, Antonio (Toni) Rodriguez Dovale. At the time I did a quick search on the internet in US and Spanish media but I could not find anything. Today though I got another tweet from Gutierrez stating that Rodriguez wanted to break his contract with Celta Vigo to sign with KC.
From looking around the net tonight there are more legs to the rumor than there were yesterday. A number of Spanish sources are reporting Rodriguez has interest from Sporting and is wanting to terminate his current deal (which apparently runs through 2016) to sign in the US.
Rodriguez started his career as a forward. Most recently for his Spanish club, Celta Vigo, though Rodriguez has moved to the back to play the left back position for the La Liga side. His ability to play on the left certainly has to be a plus for KC, who has looked for more of a pure left winger in their 4-3-3. And with his ability to play left back that is certainly something that Vermes has to like especially with how he likes his wingbacks to get forward in this formation. So the ability to cover and play defense is a plus.
The one thing in many of the articles that is causing me to question it just a bit is the fact that many say that Rodriguez has offers from Kansas City and two other MLS clubs. With MLS' discovery system it just causes me a moment of pause. Although if he'd come in as a designated player I guess that would change things a bit with the discovery process.
From looking around the net tonight there are more legs to the rumor than there were yesterday. A number of Spanish sources are reporting Rodriguez has interest from Sporting and is wanting to terminate his current deal (which apparently runs through 2016) to sign in the US.
Rodriguez started his career as a forward. Most recently for his Spanish club, Celta Vigo, though Rodriguez has moved to the back to play the left back position for the La Liga side. His ability to play on the left certainly has to be a plus for KC, who has looked for more of a pure left winger in their 4-3-3. And with his ability to play left back that is certainly something that Vermes has to like especially with how he likes his wingbacks to get forward in this formation. So the ability to cover and play defense is a plus.
The one thing in many of the articles that is causing me to question it just a bit is the fact that many say that Rodriguez has offers from Kansas City and two other MLS clubs. With MLS' discovery system it just causes me a moment of pause. Although if he'd come in as a designated player I guess that would change things a bit with the discovery process.
Tuesday, March 04, 2014
A Look at the Depth Chart - Defense
Continuing the look through the roster and moving up the field, it's not time to take a look at the defense. Every player that played minutes for KC in competitive games in defense this past year have returned for the upcoming season. It gives KC stability in the position, which is key with a new goalkeeper in net.
Center Back Current Depth Chart
1. Matt Besler
2. Aurelien Collin
3. Ike Opara
4. Lawrence Olum
5. Erik Palmer-Brown
Unsigned factor: Peter Schmetz
The top three are as you'd expect. One of the best center back pairings in the league in Besler and Collin anchor the center of defense, with Opara being an extremely solid back up. Opara should get plenty of time this year with Besler spending time with the national team and Collin likely to pick up at least one suspension over the course of the season. From there things get a little murky. Teenager Palmer-Brown has gotten more time at center back this preseason than Olum, but I'd guess if Vermes needed to start one in a game it'd probably be Olum at this point. The other factor is current unsigned third round draft pick, Schmetz. If KC were to sign the German his position on the depth chart would be interesting, or if he'd be heading to one of our USL-Pro affiliates.
Right Back Current Depth Chart
1. Chance Myers
2. Mechack Jerome
3. Kevin Ellis
A fairly straight forward list as you'd expect for Sporting KC. With Myers re-signing with the club earlier this offseason he remains atop the list of KC's depth char.t Behind him is Haitian international Jerome. While his minutes dropped off as the season progress, he's still likely to remain ahead of Ellis. KC's second home grown player is in a big year for him. He's only played in two MLS games so far in his career, and entering his third season he should really be pushing Jerome to be Myers' back up.
Left Back Current Depth Chart
1. Seth Sinovic
2. Josh Gardner
3. Chance Myers
4. Kevin Ellis
Another straight forward selection at number one, another player that spent time with the US naitonal team, Sinovic will remain as the first choice selection at left back. Behind him is one of the more polarizing players in the last few years on KC's roster. Gardner had a poor performance in KC's last preseason game, but his performances have been better since he stopped playing as a winger in KC's system. Behind Gardner are two players who are predominately right backs, but can play left. Myers played on the left against Dallas this past year while Ellis also filled in on the left when needed.
With the defense here are a few questions.
Can the defense keep up their stellar record without Nielsen behind then?
The back line of Myers, Collin, Besler, and Sinovic are 33-8-9 when they start together. So far that record has come with Jimmy Nielsen behind them in net. Can this foursome keep up the record with a new goalkeeper behind them? Nielsen's style as a goalkeeper and as a leader fit in well with the way that KC's back line played. With a goalkeeper that controls his box more, will KC's back line adapt as well?
Can Opara continue to be a key contributor?
Much is going to be expected of Opara this year, especially in late May and early June when he'll be expected to take over in the center of defense for Besler who should be away with the US national team. The former number three overall pick in the draft has struggled with injuries throughout his MLS career. In fact last year, starting 15 games and playing in 18 were both career highs for the center back. KC will need him to stay healthy and contribute defensively when Besler is gone or Collin is suspended.
Will Palmer-Brown see the field in KC this year?
KC's 16 year old academy product signed in the 2013 season and has been impressing with Sporting and with the US youth national teams. With the continued rumors or a deal with Juventus and rumors that the deal is incentive based, the young center back could see some time with KC this year. With KC playing games on four different fronts before the playoffs (league, US Open Cup, and two different segments of the CCL) there are a number of games, and plenty of time for him to get his feet wet. If not in one of those competitions than I'm not sure he'll see time this year. With his current age I'm not sure that Vermes sees a loan to Oklahoma City or Orlando as being the best move for him at this point in his career.
Center Back Current Depth Chart
1. Matt Besler
2. Aurelien Collin
3. Ike Opara
4. Lawrence Olum
5. Erik Palmer-Brown
Unsigned factor: Peter Schmetz
The top three are as you'd expect. One of the best center back pairings in the league in Besler and Collin anchor the center of defense, with Opara being an extremely solid back up. Opara should get plenty of time this year with Besler spending time with the national team and Collin likely to pick up at least one suspension over the course of the season. From there things get a little murky. Teenager Palmer-Brown has gotten more time at center back this preseason than Olum, but I'd guess if Vermes needed to start one in a game it'd probably be Olum at this point. The other factor is current unsigned third round draft pick, Schmetz. If KC were to sign the German his position on the depth chart would be interesting, or if he'd be heading to one of our USL-Pro affiliates.
Right Back Current Depth Chart
1. Chance Myers
2. Mechack Jerome
3. Kevin Ellis
A fairly straight forward list as you'd expect for Sporting KC. With Myers re-signing with the club earlier this offseason he remains atop the list of KC's depth char.t Behind him is Haitian international Jerome. While his minutes dropped off as the season progress, he's still likely to remain ahead of Ellis. KC's second home grown player is in a big year for him. He's only played in two MLS games so far in his career, and entering his third season he should really be pushing Jerome to be Myers' back up.
Left Back Current Depth Chart
1. Seth Sinovic
2. Josh Gardner
3. Chance Myers
4. Kevin Ellis
Another straight forward selection at number one, another player that spent time with the US naitonal team, Sinovic will remain as the first choice selection at left back. Behind him is one of the more polarizing players in the last few years on KC's roster. Gardner had a poor performance in KC's last preseason game, but his performances have been better since he stopped playing as a winger in KC's system. Behind Gardner are two players who are predominately right backs, but can play left. Myers played on the left against Dallas this past year while Ellis also filled in on the left when needed.
With the defense here are a few questions.
Can the defense keep up their stellar record without Nielsen behind then?
The back line of Myers, Collin, Besler, and Sinovic are 33-8-9 when they start together. So far that record has come with Jimmy Nielsen behind them in net. Can this foursome keep up the record with a new goalkeeper behind them? Nielsen's style as a goalkeeper and as a leader fit in well with the way that KC's back line played. With a goalkeeper that controls his box more, will KC's back line adapt as well?
Can Opara continue to be a key contributor?
Much is going to be expected of Opara this year, especially in late May and early June when he'll be expected to take over in the center of defense for Besler who should be away with the US national team. The former number three overall pick in the draft has struggled with injuries throughout his MLS career. In fact last year, starting 15 games and playing in 18 were both career highs for the center back. KC will need him to stay healthy and contribute defensively when Besler is gone or Collin is suspended.
Will Palmer-Brown see the field in KC this year?
KC's 16 year old academy product signed in the 2013 season and has been impressing with Sporting and with the US youth national teams. With the continued rumors or a deal with Juventus and rumors that the deal is incentive based, the young center back could see some time with KC this year. With KC playing games on four different fronts before the playoffs (league, US Open Cup, and two different segments of the CCL) there are a number of games, and plenty of time for him to get his feet wet. If not in one of those competitions than I'm not sure he'll see time this year. With his current age I'm not sure that Vermes sees a loan to Oklahoma City or Orlando as being the best move for him at this point in his career.
Sporting Unveil New Jersey, Name Besler as Captain
Tonight at the Charles Wheeler downtown airport, Sporting KC made two announcements. The first was the unveiling of their new secondary jersey for use in the 2014-2015 season. The second was the announcement of the new captain.
Sporting's new secondary jersey fills in the MLS hoops gap that was left by FC Dallas when they went with a straight red jersey. The jersey features Sporting blue and indigo stripes on the front and an indigo back.
The one worry I have looking at the jersey is that I'm not sure it gives KC enough contrast to their current primary jersey. There's still a lot of Sporting blue on the front of the jersey. The back though should lead to enough of a different though. Still I am a little surprised that MLS allowed this jersey to be their secondary.
The coolest part of the jersey to me though is on the inside of it behind the crest, where the team has added the "For the Glory of the City" motto that started around the 2012 US Open Cup final.
CAPTAIN
Also tonight, Sporting KC named their captain to replace Jimmy Nielsen. As most people seemed to predict, Peter Vermes chose home town hero, and national team regular, Matt Besler to be the team's new captain.
There really wasn't another option for Sporting in my opinion. Besler was the odds on favorite, with only fleeting thoughts in my head of Paulo Nagamura being named instead of him.
Congrats to Besler, he will be a fantastic captain for this team going forward.
Sporting's new secondary jersey fills in the MLS hoops gap that was left by FC Dallas when they went with a straight red jersey. The jersey features Sporting blue and indigo stripes on the front and an indigo back.
The coolest part of the jersey to me though is on the inside of it behind the crest, where the team has added the "For the Glory of the City" motto that started around the 2012 US Open Cup final.
CAPTAIN
Also tonight, Sporting KC named their captain to replace Jimmy Nielsen. As most people seemed to predict, Peter Vermes chose home town hero, and national team regular, Matt Besler to be the team's new captain.
There really wasn't another option for Sporting in my opinion. Besler was the odds on favorite, with only fleeting thoughts in my head of Paulo Nagamura being named instead of him.
Congrats to Besler, he will be a fantastic captain for this team going forward.
Sporting Sign Alex Martinez
Sporting KC announced the signing of the signing of midfielder Alex Martinez, the first player from this year's draft class to be signed by KC. Martinez, the 57th pick of the draft, the final one of the third round has had an impressive preseason for KC, appearing in seven of KC's 10 preseason games.
He picked up three assists, two from corners, and one the secondary assist on Sal Zizzo's game winner in KC's 3-2 win over Montreal in their last group game. From the games that I've seen Martinez play in, he fits the midfield role that Peter Vermes likes. He's aggressive and able to create as well. He'll fit in well in the midfield and could look to take some of the minutes that Peterson Joseph was expected to get this year. If not that, he could be a candidate to head be one of the four players that heads on loan to Oklahoma City or Orlando for the USL-Pro season.
The signing gives KC 28 rostered players currently, with the draft picks Adnan Gabeljic and Peter Schmetz still with the team unsigned. That number though still includes Peterson Joseph who has not taken part in preseason play at all and who I expect to be placed on injured reserve because of the issues in diagnosing what caused his collapse last year.
Monday, March 03, 2014
A Look at the Depth Chart - Goalkeepers
We're less than a week away from Sporting KC beginning their defense of their MLS Cup title they won in December. The journey begins when Sporting takes on the Seattle Sounders at Century Link Field. With the season so close let's take a look at the depth that KC has with each position on the field. Tonight we'll start in the back with the goalkeepers.
Current Depth Chart
1. Eric Kronberg
2. Andy Gruenebaum
3. Jon Kempin
Before preseason even started, Peter Vermes named Kronberg his number one goalkeeper. So far this preseason there's been nothing that I've seen that's proven that mindset has changed. So I'm still planning on Kronberg being the team's starter at this point when the team takes the field. That's not to say we won't see Gruenebaum on the field for a number of games this year. I think he'll get plenty of time. There are a couple of questions though about the goalkeeper situation.
How can Sporting replace Nielsen?
It's cliche, but really, you can't. Nielsen is one of the best goalkeepers in MLS history, and his experience and leadership isn't going to be directly replaced. Nielsen's played the last 8,100 MLS minutes for Sporting KC, so not only has Nielsen been a good goalkeeper for KC, he's been consistently playing.
The big thing is that the player expected to take his place, Kronberg, is a completely different type of goalkeeper. Nielsen relied more on his shot stopping ability and was really not great at controlling his own box. Kronberg though is more willing to come out and attack the ball and tries to maintain more control of his box.
Can Kronberg keep Gruenebaum on the bench throughout the season?
Kronberg, while the longest tenured player on KC's roster doesn't have a ton of MLS experience. The veteran, about to start his 9th season in the league, has played just five MLS games, none since 2011. He has gotten time in the Open Cup and Champions League during that time though, but his lack of experience is certainly a concern. With an experienced MLS veteran on the bench in Gruenebaum, there is someone that can come in should Kronberg struggle.
Originally with the Gruenebaum signing, I expected the former Crew goalkeeper to be the one that would end up starting the season as the number 1, but at this point that's not going to happen. But with that much experience on the bench, does Vermes get an itchy trigger finger if Kronberg is to struggle in goal? I know a number of fans were questioning Kronberg's performance in the preseason finale against Columbus, but most of them are making a bit too much of it right now.
But if Kronberg struggles, I would not be surprised to see him benched in favor of the KC native.
Can Kempin get enough games to continue to develop?
At this point I think more people would be surprised if Sporting's first home grown goalkeeper, Jon Kempin didn't go to Oklahoma City on loan this year. He'd get to continue to learn from Jimmy Nielsen, head coach of the OKC Energy. Last year Kempin played nine games while on loan to Orlando City. He was partially limited by injury, but also because Orlando already has a strong goalkeeper in Miguel Gallardo, who also limited Kempin's time. With the expansion Energy though, he'll come in and expect to battle to be the number one goalkeeper against former DC academy product, Samir Badr and OKC native Jennings Clark.
With Kempin expected to be the goalkeeper of the future for KC, he needs to continue to get games that matter. Hopefully this year he can get more games.
Current Depth Chart
1. Eric Kronberg
2. Andy Gruenebaum
3. Jon Kempin
Before preseason even started, Peter Vermes named Kronberg his number one goalkeeper. So far this preseason there's been nothing that I've seen that's proven that mindset has changed. So I'm still planning on Kronberg being the team's starter at this point when the team takes the field. That's not to say we won't see Gruenebaum on the field for a number of games this year. I think he'll get plenty of time. There are a couple of questions though about the goalkeeper situation.
How can Sporting replace Nielsen?
It's cliche, but really, you can't. Nielsen is one of the best goalkeepers in MLS history, and his experience and leadership isn't going to be directly replaced. Nielsen's played the last 8,100 MLS minutes for Sporting KC, so not only has Nielsen been a good goalkeeper for KC, he's been consistently playing.
The big thing is that the player expected to take his place, Kronberg, is a completely different type of goalkeeper. Nielsen relied more on his shot stopping ability and was really not great at controlling his own box. Kronberg though is more willing to come out and attack the ball and tries to maintain more control of his box.
Can Kronberg keep Gruenebaum on the bench throughout the season?
Kronberg, while the longest tenured player on KC's roster doesn't have a ton of MLS experience. The veteran, about to start his 9th season in the league, has played just five MLS games, none since 2011. He has gotten time in the Open Cup and Champions League during that time though, but his lack of experience is certainly a concern. With an experienced MLS veteran on the bench in Gruenebaum, there is someone that can come in should Kronberg struggle.
Originally with the Gruenebaum signing, I expected the former Crew goalkeeper to be the one that would end up starting the season as the number 1, but at this point that's not going to happen. But with that much experience on the bench, does Vermes get an itchy trigger finger if Kronberg is to struggle in goal? I know a number of fans were questioning Kronberg's performance in the preseason finale against Columbus, but most of them are making a bit too much of it right now.
But if Kronberg struggles, I would not be surprised to see him benched in favor of the KC native.
Can Kempin get enough games to continue to develop?
At this point I think more people would be surprised if Sporting's first home grown goalkeeper, Jon Kempin didn't go to Oklahoma City on loan this year. He'd get to continue to learn from Jimmy Nielsen, head coach of the OKC Energy. Last year Kempin played nine games while on loan to Orlando City. He was partially limited by injury, but also because Orlando already has a strong goalkeeper in Miguel Gallardo, who also limited Kempin's time. With the expansion Energy though, he'll come in and expect to battle to be the number one goalkeeper against former DC academy product, Samir Badr and OKC native Jennings Clark.
With Kempin expected to be the goalkeeper of the future for KC, he needs to continue to get games that matter. Hopefully this year he can get more games.
Comets End Regular Season with a Win
The Missouri Comets ended the 2013-2014 regular season with a win over the Milwaukee Wave, in Milwaukee. The win was the Comets fourth over the Wave this year, the only team to beat Milwaukee all season.
The Comets grabbed a 2-0 lead in the first quarter through Lucas Rodriguez. In the second, the Comets and the Wave traded goals, with Bryan Perez finding net for the Comets and Nicolas Perera finding the net for the Wave all in the first five minutes of the quarter.
The third quarter saw just a single goal scored as Vahid Assadpour returned to the lineup for the first time since January, scored a goal to extend the Comets lead to 6-2. Just over a minute and a half into the fourth quarter though Marcelo Fontana put the led back at 2 as he beat Danny Waltman to make it 6-4. The Comets though rode some strong goalkeeping by Waltman throughout the game and just over seven minutes in, Rodriguez scored his second goal of the game, this one from three point range to extend the lead to 9-4. The Comets held on late with Waltman playing a big part.
The win means that these two teams will meet two more times this year in the playoffs. The teams will meet Sunday at the Independence Events Center and then the next day in Milwaukee. Of the potential match ups for Missouri this was the better match up, I'd rather they take on Milwaukee than Baltimore. Of Missouri's six losses this season, all six came against playoff teams (4-2 vs Milwaukee, 0-2 vs Baltimore, 0-2 vs Syracuse). So getting a match up against a team they've beaten is a plus for Missouri.
The Comets grabbed a 2-0 lead in the first quarter through Lucas Rodriguez. In the second, the Comets and the Wave traded goals, with Bryan Perez finding net for the Comets and Nicolas Perera finding the net for the Wave all in the first five minutes of the quarter.
The third quarter saw just a single goal scored as Vahid Assadpour returned to the lineup for the first time since January, scored a goal to extend the Comets lead to 6-2. Just over a minute and a half into the fourth quarter though Marcelo Fontana put the led back at 2 as he beat Danny Waltman to make it 6-4. The Comets though rode some strong goalkeeping by Waltman throughout the game and just over seven minutes in, Rodriguez scored his second goal of the game, this one from three point range to extend the lead to 9-4. The Comets held on late with Waltman playing a big part.
The win means that these two teams will meet two more times this year in the playoffs. The teams will meet Sunday at the Independence Events Center and then the next day in Milwaukee. Of the potential match ups for Missouri this was the better match up, I'd rather they take on Milwaukee than Baltimore. Of Missouri's six losses this season, all six came against playoff teams (4-2 vs Milwaukee, 0-2 vs Baltimore, 0-2 vs Syracuse). So getting a match up against a team they've beaten is a plus for Missouri.
Sunday, March 02, 2014
Jerome Called Up for Haiti
Sporting KC defender Mechack Jerome will be one of two players to represent their national team this week ahead of the MLS season kicking off. Jerome will join Soony Saad on national team duty. Saad has been with the Lebanon national team ahead of their must win AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Thailand. Lebanon need a win and some help from China to qualify for the 2015 version of the tournament.
Jerome and Haiti will be heading to Europe to play Kosovo in their first official FIFA sanctioned game. You can read more about Kosovo's fight to get FIFA sanctioned matches in the New York Times. The match will take place on Wednesday the 5th, three days ahead of Sporting's season opener against Seattle. Jerome likely wasn't expected to play much of a role, but with the Champions' League next Wednesday against Cruz Azul there was a possibility he'd have some role in Seattle as KC has stated their want to win the CCL.
Jerome and Haiti will be heading to Europe to play Kosovo in their first official FIFA sanctioned game. You can read more about Kosovo's fight to get FIFA sanctioned matches in the New York Times. The match will take place on Wednesday the 5th, three days ahead of Sporting's season opener against Seattle. Jerome likely wasn't expected to play much of a role, but with the Champions' League next Wednesday against Cruz Azul there was a possibility he'd have some role in Seattle as KC has stated their want to win the CCL.
Sporting Drop Final Preseason Game
Sporting fell for the first time in the 2014 preseason, and did so in grand fashion getting thoroughly dismantled by the Columbus Crew in the final of the Disney Pro Soccer Classic, 4-1.
Sporting suffered an early blow as left back, Seth Sinovic left after only seven minutes after suffering a hip injury. His replacement, Josh Gardner ended up having a very poor night replacing him. In the 20th minute, Gardner ended up bringing down Hector Jimenez in the box after a through ball found him. Jairo Arrieta stepped up and buried the penalty kick to Eric Kronberg's right. The Crew continued to have the better of play in the first half and should have doubled their lead in the 35th as Tony Tchani cut through KC's central defense and fired a shot just wide of Kronberg's post. KC's best chance of the first half came when Graham Zusi played a ball in to Paulo Nagamura who had gotten into a good position behind his defender. Nagamura though put his shot just wide of the post. The two teams went into the half time break with the Crew up 1-0.
The second half saw Sporting come out with a renewed pressure. They kept the Crew pinned back in their own end. And when the Crew did get forward they ended up getting called offside. Gardner had a good opportunity at the offensive end, taking a shot that took a deflection off the head of a Crew defender. The ball floated over Crew goalkeeper Steve Clark, but the ball struck the ball and bounced back into play. Shortly after, Oriol Rosell played a great ball through to Dom Dwyer who fired a shot first time, but Clark came up with a fantastic save to keep the Crew in front.
Shortly after that opportunity, KC made five changes, including three quarters of the back line. The Crew took advantage of the disorganization. First Jimenez found space down KC's left against Gardner and played a great pass into the middle for Bernardo Anor who headed the ball past Kronberg to make it 2-0. Jimenez picked up another assist in the 74th as he played the ball through to Justin Meram, who beat the offside trap, rounded Kronberg and slotted the ball home to make it 3-0. The Crew rounded out their scoring 10 minutes later when Meram played a ball through to Federico Higuain who again beat the offside trap and chipped an on rushing Kronberg to make it 4-0. Three minutes later, Sporting spoiled Clark's shut out as Claudio Bieler fired a volley from outside the box into the far lower corner to make it 4-1. While KC pressured the rest of the way they were unable to find any more goals.
While the loss is disheartening, especially right before the beginning of preseason, it was still a preseason game. The hope continues to be that Gardner isn't going to see much of the game time. Now if Sinovic gets hurt and is out for a period of time that could cause KC a number of problems on the left as there continue to be questions about Gardner's play when replacing Sinovic.
We're under a week now though before the regular season starts.
Sporting suffered an early blow as left back, Seth Sinovic left after only seven minutes after suffering a hip injury. His replacement, Josh Gardner ended up having a very poor night replacing him. In the 20th minute, Gardner ended up bringing down Hector Jimenez in the box after a through ball found him. Jairo Arrieta stepped up and buried the penalty kick to Eric Kronberg's right. The Crew continued to have the better of play in the first half and should have doubled their lead in the 35th as Tony Tchani cut through KC's central defense and fired a shot just wide of Kronberg's post. KC's best chance of the first half came when Graham Zusi played a ball in to Paulo Nagamura who had gotten into a good position behind his defender. Nagamura though put his shot just wide of the post. The two teams went into the half time break with the Crew up 1-0.
The second half saw Sporting come out with a renewed pressure. They kept the Crew pinned back in their own end. And when the Crew did get forward they ended up getting called offside. Gardner had a good opportunity at the offensive end, taking a shot that took a deflection off the head of a Crew defender. The ball floated over Crew goalkeeper Steve Clark, but the ball struck the ball and bounced back into play. Shortly after, Oriol Rosell played a great ball through to Dom Dwyer who fired a shot first time, but Clark came up with a fantastic save to keep the Crew in front.
Shortly after that opportunity, KC made five changes, including three quarters of the back line. The Crew took advantage of the disorganization. First Jimenez found space down KC's left against Gardner and played a great pass into the middle for Bernardo Anor who headed the ball past Kronberg to make it 2-0. Jimenez picked up another assist in the 74th as he played the ball through to Justin Meram, who beat the offside trap, rounded Kronberg and slotted the ball home to make it 3-0. The Crew rounded out their scoring 10 minutes later when Meram played a ball through to Federico Higuain who again beat the offside trap and chipped an on rushing Kronberg to make it 4-0. Three minutes later, Sporting spoiled Clark's shut out as Claudio Bieler fired a volley from outside the box into the far lower corner to make it 4-1. While KC pressured the rest of the way they were unable to find any more goals.
While the loss is disheartening, especially right before the beginning of preseason, it was still a preseason game. The hope continues to be that Gardner isn't going to see much of the game time. Now if Sinovic gets hurt and is out for a period of time that could cause KC a number of problems on the left as there continue to be questions about Gardner's play when replacing Sinovic.
We're under a week now though before the regular season starts.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
