THE BRADLEY DILEMMA

By J.D. Smith

Last week, U.S. Soccer elected to extend the contract of Bob Bradley. Whether that news makes you say “Four More Years!” or “Four...MORE...years???”, the thing to do here is to look for common ground. After all, no amount of internet arguing is going to un-ink the signatures on that U.S. Soccer contract. And despite what some of us may think, Bob Bradley is not the best or worst thing to happen to the U.S National team: He’s most likely not going to miraculously win a World Cup four years from now; and most likely, he’s not going to miss qualifying for the 2014 World Cup. All in all, re-hiring Bob Bradley is neither terribly exciting nor terribly surprising.

But at the end of the day, maybe the US Soccer system needs to be shocked into the next cycle. After all, heroic performances from Landon Donovan aside and Michael Bradley (and unofficially, Maurice Edu) aside, the U.S. team has some issues to address in the next four years. Chief among those duties should be shoring up a defense that seemed prone to mental lapses in the World Cup. Of course, the fact that a forward hasn’t scored in the previous 2 World Cups and counting is weighing heavily on the psyche as well. While Bob Bradley can’t just conjure up a couple of unflappable rugged defenders and a 20-goal scorer, he can certainly look to nurture some young talent. In fact, it would seem to be one of the biggest things Bradley should focus on in the next calendar year: identifying which young players can help he U.S. now, and which ones could help in four years.

But it also would seem to be imperative that Bradley and Co. win the Gold Cup next year. Sunil Gulati, the President of U.S. Soccer, said as much in the re-introductory press conference for Bob Bradley. Never mind that awful travesty that we saw last year, in which the U.S. brought second teamers to a competition that might as well have been called the “It’s not the Confederations Cup” Tournament. The loss to Mexico stung because it was, well, a loss to Mexico (and the final scores was equally ego-bruising). But the loss ultimately didn’t matter much in the grand scheme of things. Mexico has regained some swagger, sure, but they were bound to at some point. If the U.S. wants to continue to establish its dominance in CONCACAF, securing our spot AGAIN in the Confederations Cup over Mexico will certainly go a long way. Obviously, U.S. Soccer fans go mental when we lose anything, so winning a trophy next year would also be a nice way to forget about Asamoah Gyan (unless, like me, you’re a Sunderland fan. Dammit).

Sadly, the problem I’m seeing is that these two goals of fostering the next generation and wining the Gold Cup at all costs are at odds with each other.

Obviously, the Gold Cup and lead up to it would be invaluable experience for the likes of Omar Gonzalez, Alejandro Bedoya, and...dare I say it...Freddy Adu. Yes, I realize that one or all of these guys may not factor into the equation in 2014, but at some point, they need to be playing in some meaningful games. And guys like Gale Agbossoumonde and Juan Aguodelo may be a year or two away, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be invited to the camps of some of these friendlies. The question is, will Bob Bradley be able to justify these roster spots when Sunil Gulati has made the 2011 Gold Cup the immediate priority?

To have the best shot in the Gold Cup, US Soccer needs it’s current stars to show up and play big. That means, of course, Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard. But what does it mean for Carlos Bocanegra, Steve Cherundolo, and Robbie Findley? If Bradley relies on veterans who likely won’t be a part of the picture in 2014, he runs the risk of taking a very green and naive team to Brazil, not to mention stagnating the program for another cycle.

But not to worry - I believe I have a happy compromise:

Bradley and Gulati must make it clear to all involved what the purpose of the Gold Cup is next year. If the main goal is to get the US qualified for the 2013 Confederations Cup, then so be it. But they damn well better do it. OR, they could come out and say that US Soccer has one goal for the next 4 years, and that is advancing further than the 2002 national team did. In theory, it’s possible that both could happen - Charlie Davies and Jozy Altidore could be banging home crosses from Stuart Holden as Freddy Adu directs traffic in front of Omar Gonzalez and Chad Marshall (or whoever, make your own squad of youngsters), but the likelihood is that one goal will sacrifice the other. Bradley’s next great task is figuring out which one of these goals will take precedence in the coming year, and how to continue the growth of U.S. Soccer into the 2014 World Cup.

And to be honest, I don’t envy him one bit.

J.D. Smith hosts a weekly podcast at www.nationalsoccerradio.com. The podcast is also available on iTunes. You can follow his musings on twitter @natsoccerradio.

CREW MOVES INTO TIE FOR SUPPORTERS' SHIELD LEAD WITH 1-0 WIN AT D.C. UNITED SATURDAY

WASHINGTON, D.C. - September 4, 2010 - Playing in its fifth match in two weeks, the Columbus Crew made a first-half goal from Guillermo Barros Schelotto hold up for a 1-0 victory over D.C. United at RFK Stadium on Saturday night to remain atop the Eastern Conference standings and move into a tie with the LA Galaxy in the Supporters' Shield race. Columbus took the lead on a first-half mistake by D.C. goalkeeper Bill Hamid, and made the most of that break with a composed, confident performance.

One goal was all the Crew would need for its second win in Washington in four days. The Black & Gold secured passage to the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final on Wednesday, and on Saturday maintained their push toward a third straight Supporters' Shield.

Under pressure from Schelotto, the 19-year-old Hamid muffed a back pass, then whiffed on a half-volleyed clearance. The Crew's Argentine maestro seized the loose ball and side-footed his shot into the net. Columbus did not allow the home team a single shot on goal in the game, meaning that keeper William Hesmer did not have to make a save to secure his 10th shutout of the season.

The Galaxy played the Chicago Fire to a 1-1 draw on Saturday, allowing the Crew to draw level with them on 44 points, heading into next Saturday's marquee matchup between the two teams at The Home Depot Center. The Crew extended its lead in the East to seven points over New York, which lost at Real Salt Lake on Saturday.

New signing Andres Mendoza made his MLS debut in the 89th minute, entering the match as a substitute for Schelotto. Mendoza's arrival came in the nick of time as Columbus is still without Robbie Rogers (knee), Emmanuel Ekpo (groin), and Adam Moffat (yellow card accumulation).

RUDE AWAKENING: UNITED'S DREAM RUN DASHED

By Adam Stern

WASHINGTON, D.C. - September 1, 2010 - It was too good to be true. D.C. United’s disastrous, dark season had been clinging onto a single ray of light in form of the U.S. Open Cup before Wednesday night’s semifinal matchup with the Columbus Crew.

And when striker Pablo Hernandez powered a 1st half penalty kick to give United a 1-0 advantage, supporters could have been forgiven for dreaming of two USOC finals two years running.

But when it was all said and done, perhaps it was fitting that, in a season where everything that can go wrong has, they were completely abandoned by Lady Luck, once and for all. United’s 2-1 loss to Columbus included a phantom red card that put the team in a shell for the final half an hour after holding a comfortable lead, an at-the-death equalizer and two gilt-edge opportunities thereafter blown.

You name it, United suffered it.

“It was everything, obviously,” United midfielder Santino Quaranta said of the Open Cup defeat. “It's gut wrenching… there’s not too many words I have to describe it.”

Other members of United were similarly at a loss for words, too. Head Coach Ben Olsen sported glassy if not teary eyes and was nearly inaudible at his press conference; defender Julius James took questions quietly. When James was done answering questions, however, he asked reporters if he could share a statement of his own.

“I just want to say one thing… this is a really tough time for us and especially for [the fans],” James said. “The most important thing is we satisfy the fans and we haven’t being doing that this year, and I just want to sincerely thank the diehard guys for coming and supporting us.”

It didn’t have to be so doom and gloom, though.

United were maintaining a comfortable lead against a seemingly disinterested Crew when the game’s turning point came in the 59th minute. United’s goalscorer, Pablo Hernandez— an expensive Argentinean exploit still looking to find his feet in the American game— got tangled up in a tackle with Crew defender Danny O’Rourke and, in the midst of falling to the ground, flailed out slightly.

Though only minimum contact with O’Rourke was made, the Crew defender stood over Hernandez’ face and berated him before referee Chris Penso consulted with his fourth official and then awarding the Argentinean a red card.

United remained in a 4-4-1— with Honduran sensation Andy Najar moved up top— and coped admirably with 10 men for most of the second half. But as the game wore in, United slipped more and more into a defensive shell, and eventually were made to pay for their change in style of play when Crew substitute forward Dilly Duka danced around the box before dishing a pass to defender Andy Iro, who hammered the ball into the back of the net.

Literally seconds later, right from the kickoff, Najar was put in 1v1 on net, but Crew goalkeeper Andy Gruenenbaum charged out and Najar nipped it wide.

Seven minutes into overtime, United yielded a penalty that Guiellermo Barros Schelotto dispatched to put the Crew up. Seven minutes after that, United defender Dejan Jakovic summed up United’s entire season with a jaw dropping miss: A shank of a shot from three yards out, off a cross on the ground, with a wide open net at the taking.

After the game, United players, staff and even team president Kevin Payne stood around in the locker room watching the replay of the red card repeatedly, in seeming disbelief that their last run at redeeming had ran out.

Indeed, it was as if the team couldn’t let go of a daring dream in the midst of a nightmare season.

“I’m not going to lie: [the Open Cup] was a big part of the rest of the season,” Olsen said. “We had it. You know. We just can’t reward ourselves, it’s very frustrating."

BATTERY CLAIMS USL-2 CHAMPIONSHIP AS SEASON COMES TO A CLOSE

CHARLESTON, SC - August 28, 2010 - The Charleston Battery claimed the 2010 USL Second Division Championship with a 2-1 victory over the always competitive Richmond Kickers. A crowd heavy with Battery supporters saw their regular season champions take a two goal lead thanks to the play of Lamar Neagle and Ian Fuller. An Edson Elcock goal in the 73rd minute gave the Kickers hope, but the 2009 champions just couldn't find the equalizer to push the match into overtime.

Former Cleveland City Stars defender Alioune Gueye spent 90+ minutes in the Charleston midfield, helping to slow down the Richmond attack. Prolific scorer Matthew Delicâte was kept under control, leaving the match without a goal or an assist for the Kickers.

Fuller would be the hero of the night as he cleared a Delicâte volley off the line with just seconds remaining in stoppage time. The potential goal would have sent the game into extra time, 30 minutes to be exact. Scoring a goal and making a critical defensive stop were major accomplishments for the Battery midfielder. Tim Melia proved to be an asset in goal, making eight saves and commanding the Battery backline.

With the season now over, players from USL-2 scramble to continue playing during the American outdoor season. Harrisburg City goalkeeper Tomer Chencinski has been invited to train with the Philadelphia Union, potentially serving as their third MLS goalkeeper. Chencinski's Harrisburg teammate, defender/midfielder Sheanon Williams, has also joined the Union after signing a pro contract with the MLS club. The U.S. youth national team product played in both the U-17 World Cup in Korea and the U-20 World Cup in Egypt.

OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND, BUT NO GOALS

By Gary L. Moody Jr.

COLUMBUS, OH - August 28, 2010 - The stellar performances of Brek Shea and Emilio Renteria were the talk of Saturday's matchup between FC Dallas (9-2-10) and the Columbus Crew (12-5-5), even though the result was a 0-0 draw. Both players displayed playmaking abilities, good speed, and solid technique. Danny O'Rourke of the Crew and Zach Loyd of FC Dallas were given the arduous task of marking and containing Shea and Renteria, respectively.

The Crew's first opportunity came in the 10th minute as FC Dallas goalkeeper Kevin Hartman mishandled the ball off a potential save. The ball fell to the Crew's Chad Marshall for what looked to be a sure goal. Quick thinking by midfielder Atiba Harris saved the day for Dallas as the St. Kitts native scrambled to get the block.

FC Dallas threatened just six minutes later as Shea made a run and laid down a bullet of a shot, but it was wide left. Harris would take a shot of his own in the 24th, but it was also off target. Shea would challenge the Crew defense again in the 35th minute, but he would come up empty after his shot went just left of the goal.

Renteria would set up one of the best opportunities of the match four minutes later, delivering a beautiful cross near Jason Garey, who wasn't able to convert it into a goal. Renteria would take his own shot in the 40th from outside the area, but suffered a hard foul from Loyd.

Seconds later, a Guillermo Barros Schelotto free kick looked to be another good chance, but the shot deflected off the Dallas wall. A quick breakaway for FC Dallas would follow with Shea getting yet another chance at goal, but nothing would come of it. A physical first half would end in a 0-0 score, but there was promise for a more interesting second half.

"Once again for some reason we played a little better in the second half," Crew striker Jason Garey continued. "We got to try to figure out how we can do that in the first half. I thought we definitely were better in the second half, trying to create some more chances."

The first big moment of the second half came off a beautiful Shea cross, which landed at the feet of David Ferreira. The striker's shot was high, but a good opportunity nevertheless. Renteria would then get the ball after a Schelotto free kick, but his kick was also high.

Renteria would be manhandled yet again in the 60th, resulting in a Crew free kick just outside the area. Iro would connect with the cross, but couldn't convert it into a Columbus goal. Hyndman hoped for a spark in the 61st and 62nd, sending in veteran striker Jeff Cunningham and young midfielder Eric Avila.

The 68th minute provided the Crew with another opportunity and another brilliant play by the Dallas defense. A solid shot by Schelotto would be blocked by Loyd, ending the Crew advance.

Ten minutes later yellow cards would be handed out to captains Schelotto and Daniel Hernandez. Dallas would go on to use their final sub in the 72nd minute with Jackson Goncalves entering the match. Steven Lenhart would find his way onto the field in the 82nd, taking over for a battered and beaten Renteria.

"Probably the guy who caused us the most trouble today was Renteria," FC Dallas Head Coach Schellas Hyndman commented in the post-game press conference. "He was just a handful. Physical and caused us to be back on our heels a lot. That was one player we were not ready for."

The scary thought is that Renteria has only been with the Crew for roughly a year. "I think he has room for improvement. I think he is going to be a better player," Crew Head Coach Robert Warzycha explained. "He got called for the (Venezuelan) national team and that is an indication that he is getting better on the field."

Schelotto himself would come out in the 90th, making the way for Kevin Burns in a tactical move by Warzycha. Burns was asked to fortify the Crew defense for the final minutes of stoppage time, keeping the match scoreless. The game would end with little drama in a 0-0 draw.

The Crew now hit the road for two games against D.C. United on September 1st and 4th, while Dallas heads home for a match against Toronto FC on September 4th.

Columbus Crew Starting XI- GK William Hesmer, DEF Danny O'Rourke, DEF Andy Iro, DEF Chad Marshall, DEF Shaun Francis, MID Eddie Gaven, MID Brian Carroll, MID Adam Moffat, MID Emilio Renteria, FWD Guillermo Barros Schelotto (C), FWD Jason Garey

FC Dallas Starting XI- GK Kevin Hartman, DEF Heath Pearce, DEF George John, DEF Zach Loyd, DEF Jair Benitez, MID Atiba Harris, MID Eric Alexander, MID Daniel Hernandez (C), MID Brek Shea, FWD David Ferreira, FWD Milton Rodriguez

Columbus Crew Bench- GK Andy Gruenebaum, DEF Eric Brunner, DEF Kevin Burns, MID Dilly Duka, MID Leandre Griffit, MID Duncan Oughton, FWD Steven Lenhart

FC Dallas Bench-GK Dario Sala, DEF Edson Edward, DEF Jackson Goncalves, MID Eric Avila, MID Martin Chavez, MID Bruno Guarda, FWD Jeff Cunningham

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CREW GAIN RESPECT IN CONTROVERSIAL LOSS TO SANTOS

TORREON, MEXICO - August 24, 2010 - Santos Laguna used a second-half stoppage-time goal from Ivan Estrada to claim a controversial 1-0 victory over the Crew Tuesday at Estadio Corona in CONCACAF Champions League action. Santos Laguna now has six points from two games in Group B, while the Crew, which was less than a minute from bringing home a point from Mexico for the first time, has three.

The Crew had an apparent Andy Iro goal, off an Emilio Renteria cross, disallowed in the 22nd minute. Renteria was forced to the sidelines after a clash left him bleeding from the head. After being bandaged, he was waved back onto the field by referee Luis Rodriguez prior to a Duncan Oughton free kick in the mid-third, at which point he immediately played a key role in the scoring play. However, Rodriguez subsequently nullified the goal because the jersey Renteria changed into (from his bloodied one) did not have a number on it, despite the fact that the fourth official seemingly approved his reentry.

For the second straight Champions League match, goalkeeper Andy Gruenebaum was stellar between the posts for the Crew, making seven saves on Tuesday, but he appeared to be screened on Estrada's last-gasp, one-timed left-footed side volley and could not keep it out of the net.

It was a gutty performance by a Crew team that did not feature regular starters Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Chad Marshall, Frankie Hejduk, Danny O'Rourke, Adam Moffat and William Hesmer, while midfield regulars Eddie Gaven and Emmanuel Ekpo came on as second-half substitutes.

AZTEX COME FROM BEHIND TO GAIN THREE POINTS

By Kacey Cherry

AUSTIN, TX - August 22, 2010 - The Austin Aztex defeated the Carolina RailHawks last night in front of a 4,000 plus crowd. After trailing by one in the first twenty minutes, the Aztex eventually fought back to achieve a victory of 3-2. Fresh off their goalless defeat last weekend against Puerto Rico, Eddie Johnson, Yohance Marshall and Randi Patterson all netted one for the Aztex.

Aztex Head Coach Adrian Heath praised his team’s performance and the determination they displayed: “Not only were the goals great, but so was the reaction of the players. I really thought this was one of our best performances tonight.”

Although the Aztex dominated possession, Carolina opened the scoring in the 18th minute after Josh Gardner found Daniel Paldini inside the box.

Fifteen minutes later, Lance Watson made a critical tackle, dispossessing a RailHawk player. Watson crossed to Johnson who drove the ball low into the left corner to even the score at 1-1.

“After the loss in Puerto Rico, we knew that we couldn’t take things for granted even though we have been doing so well,” said Johnson. “We proved again tonight that we have the ability to beat everybody in this league.”

In the second half the game opened up even more with Yordany Alvarez assisting Yohance Marshall in the 66th minute.

Substitute and recent newcomer Randi Patterson put pressure on the Carolina defense within minutes of entering the field. After outrunning the defense to pick up a ball played over the top, Patterson was one-on-one with the goalkeeper his touch played right into the keeper’s arms.

However, Patterson would eventually increase the Aztex lead by two goals, marking his first-ever Aztex goal.

The RailHawks attempted their own comeback in minute 83 when Allan Russell scored after congestion inside the penalty box. Russell capitalized on a deflection after Aztex goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo failed to get a firm hand on a previous shot.

Next up, the Aztex have a tough schedule by traveling to Portland on Thursday, who currently sit in second place behind the Aztex. Austin will then take on the Vancouver Whitecaps, who are in first place in the NASL Conference, on Sunday.

However, Heath does not seem worried about the upcoming schedule with a playoff berth inevitable.

“We’re mathematically ok, but what we want to do now is win the league. We have two very big games coming up, but I feel the win tonight was very important for the belief in our players.”

RAIN, RAIN, RAPIDS GO AWAY WITH A LOSS

By Gary L. Moody Jr.

COLUMBUS, OH - August 21, 2010 - Thanks to goals from three different players, the Columbus Crew (12-5-4) turned a short rest into a 3-1 victory over the visiting Colorado Rapids (7-5-8).

Crew Head Coach Robert Warzycha went with a similar lineup despite mounting injuries and a very crowded schedule. Midfielder Robbie Rogers (knee cyst) and defender Gino Padula (knee inflammation) remained out with injuries, while Brian Carroll returned from illness to find a spot on the substitute bench.

Eddie Gaven gave the Crew their first opportunity of the night in just the sixth minute after he was taken down in the box by an overaggresive Matt Pickens. The PK would go to the one and only Guillermo Barros Schelotto, who beat Pickens to deliver a 1-0 lead for the Crew. Schelotto has been the "Iron Man" of the Crew this season, leading all field players in minutes played.

The Crew attack would then go quiet for almost 25 minutes with Columbus focused on repelling the advance of the Rapids. The defense for Columbus held strong despite several chances produced by Colorado. Crew Stadium would fall silent in the 46th as veteran Pablo Mastroeni brought the score even just before the half. Emmanuel Ekpo lost track of Mastroeni, while Andy Iro was caught out of position on the Rapids' goal. Colorado's captain worked in combination with Mehdi Ballouchy to get the goal for the Rapids. There seemed to be a shift in momentum towards the visiting team at the half, but the real answer would come in the final 45 minutes.

"When we came in at 1 each at halftime I was very, very pleased," Rapids Head Coach Gary Smith commented in the post-game press conference. "The guys felt that they could go on to win the game. At that point there was no reason to suggest that we couldn't."

However, the second half became an entirely different story, one dedicated to the Crew attack. A Crew squad that had fallen asleep for nearly half an hour suddenly came to life. Jason Garey, who has now put together a string of solid performances, pushed the Crew up 2-1 in the 53rd, thanks to a solid opportunistic effort. Garey would threaten again in the 61st, but slipped on the wet turf trying to reach a precise pass from Eddie Gaven.

The heavy rain seemed to rejuvenate the Crew attack as several breakaways resulted in even more opportunities for Columbus. Garey had a sure goal disallowed minutes later as the Rapids struggled to keep pace. It looked to be a legitimate offsides call even though several Crew players disputed the decision.

"I think Jason Garey did a good job today," Coach Warzycha suggested. "He was very busy, obviously that was a good finish on the second goal."

Both coaches would make some tactical substitutions with the Rapids opting for Jamie Smith, Claudio Lopez, and Quincy Amarikwa. The Crew called on both Carroll and Steven Lenhart.

Warzycha's decision to bring Lenhart off the bench provided immediate dividends as the Crew scored their final goal in the 80th minute. A Schelotto corner kick connected with Chad Marshall, who deflected it to Lenhart for the finish. The 3-1 lead for the Crew gave the Rapids a lot to think about, but not much time to act. The match would end with no change in score, even though the visitors put forth a great effort to get back into the game.

When asked about his lineup choices and the rationale behind them, Warzycha stated, "We are not putting the players on the field to fail. We put them on to succeed."

"Whether they are coming off the bench or starting the game, they are doing what they are supposed to do: they play hard and they play for the team," Warzycha continued.

Without a short turnaround, the Crew's focus changes back to CONCACAF Champions League play as they face Santos Laguna on Tuesday evening.

A potentially hostile environment awaits the Crew on their trip to Estadio Nuevo Corona in Mexico. Veteran midfielder Duncan Oughton admits he has seen a little bit of everything. "You kinda know what you are going to get. They usually throw different stuff at you. We'll see what they come up with this time."

Columbus Crew Starting XI- GK William Hesmer, DEF Frankie Hejduk (C), DEF Chad Marshall, DEF Andy Iro, DEF Shaun Francis, MID Eddie Gaven, MID Adam Moffat, MID Danny O'Rourke, MID Emmanuel Ekpo, FWD Jason Garey FWD Guillermo Barros Schelotto

Colorado Rapids Starting XI- GK Matt Pickens, DEF Marvell Wynne, DEF Julian Baudet, DEF Scott Palguta, DEF Drew Moor, MID Wells Thompson, MID Pablo Mastroeni (C), MID Jeff Larentowicz, MID Mehdi Ballouchy, FWD Omar Cummings, FWD Conor Casey

Columbus Crew Bench- GK Andy Gruenebaum, DEF Eric Brunner, MID Brian Carroll, MID Leandre Griffit, MID Duncan Oughton, FWD Steven Lenhart, FWD Emilio Renteria

Colorado Rapids Bench- GK Chris Sharpe, DEF Danny Earls, DEF Kosuke Kimura, MID Ross LaBauex, MID Jamie Smith, FWD Quincy Amarikwa, FWD Claudio Lopez

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KICKERS EARN CHAMPIONSHIP BERTH

Ohio Vortex star Louis Rolko gets 90 minutes in loss to Richmond

RICHMOND, VA - August 21, 2010 - The Richmond Kickers earned their sixth Championship appearance in the past nine seasons with a decisive 2-0 win over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the USL Second Division Semifinals Saturday night.  Forward Matthew Delicâte contributed a goal and an assist to send the Kickers to the final round, which will be held in Charleston, S.C. next Saturday, August 28th.  The Kickers will face the regular season champions Charleston Battery at 6:00 p.m., LIVE on Fox Soccer Channel.

Both the Kickers and the Riverhounds entered tonight’s high-stakes match with one result in sight, as each team tested their opponent’s defense in the early going. 

First, in the 17th minute, Delicâte connected on a bouncing pass from Foglesong inside the box but his half volley was deflected by a Pittsburgh defender. 

Six minutes later, Riverhounds forward Jeremy Deighton played a high cross from the right side, finding Matt Tuttle on the far post, but the resultant left-footed strike sailed wide.

Things took a more serious turn in the 31st minute when Kickers midfielder Mike Burke lofted a cross into the box from the left wing.  The ball found Gerson dos Santos in the air, who made a leaping effort to out-jump his opponent and nodded the ball against the running direction of the ‘keeper, only to be denied by the post.

Looking to capitalize on the momentum and building confidence, Kickers midfielder Luke Vercollone fed a through ball to an onrushing Burke, streaking down the left flank.  Approaching the box, he delayed the play and laid the ball off to a wide-open Delicâte at the penalty spot.  With one touch, Delicâte launched a strike on goal but a well positioned Hunter Gilstrap was able to keep the Kickers' leading scorer off the scoresheet.

Delicâte proved to become a familiar foe for Gilstrap, getting the better of the Riverhounds goalkeeper less than one minute later.  This time, defender Dave Hertel worked the ball down the right sideline and served a cross to the lurking forward.  Winning the ball in the air, he redirected it from the six yard line and then watched as the ball rebounded off the underside of the crossbar before bouncing over the goal line behind the helpless goalkeeper.

Determined to make life difficult for Gilstrap all night, Delicâte was back in action in the 39th minute.  Forward Edson Elcock broke free on the left side and crossed the ball to the Kickers resident hit man but Gilstrap was ready this time and blocked his 10-yard missile.

Relentless on the Pittsburgh goal as the final minute of the half ticked on, the Kickers nearly collected another tally before the break.  Shaking his defender, Sascha Görres played a pinpoint pass to dos Santos inside the six-yard box.  Face-to-face with Gilstrap, dos Santos redirected the ball from point blank range but his effort deflected off the big goalkeeper’s chest. 

The second half began no differently than the first, with a battle in Pittsburgh territory ensuring out of the gates.  Within the first five minutes, a streaking Burke carried the ball along the left wing, eluding his defender and launching a rocket over the crossbar

The home side solidified their lead in the 50th minute when Delicâte received a long ball from Görres at the far post.  Playing it back across the box, he fed the ball to a trailing Foglesong, who buried a right footed volley into the back of the net.

Looking to pull a goal back in the 75th minute, the Riverhounds found a second wind when forward Chad Severs beat his mark and unleashed a low left-footed strike inside the 18-yard box that deflected inches over the target.

Without giving up hope, the Riverhounds saw their best chance of the night fall just short in the 90th minute.  Midfielder Travis MacKenzie struck from distance, only to have his attempt ricochet back into the mix and fall to the foot of Deighton 12 yards out.  Anticipating the second strike, Kickers goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale kept his composure and deflected Deighton’s effort over the end line to preserve the clean sheet.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE IS HERE

By Gary L. Moody Jr.

COLUMBUS, OH - August 18, 2010 - The Columbus Crew are becoming quite good at balancing a tight schedule as the club is a serious contender for four pieces of hardware: the U.S. Open Cup, the Supporters' Shield, the CONCACAF Champions League, and of course the MLS Cup. Wednesday night started their journey into the Champions League competition as the Crew defeated Municipal, champions of the Guatemalan First Division, 1-0 at Crew Stadium.

Crew Head Coach Robert Warzycha fielded a competitive squad that included regular starters and the likes of "super sub" Jason Garey, speedy Emmanuel Ekpo, and keeper Andy Gruenebaum, who is regarded as one of the best backup goalkeepers in the league. It was an opportunity to give players some minutes, provide rest for ailing starters, and still be a force to be reckoned with.

Ekpo would start the game with a flourish, threatening the Municipal keeper 5 minutes in with a bit of flashy play. He would be denied the goal, but that wouldn't be the case in the 14th as he put the Crew up 1-0 with spectacular individual play. Assisted by captain Frankie Hejduk, Ekpo was able to put together a collection of moves, going out and around the Municipal defenders to score the first goal of the match.

Municipal keeper Jaime Penedo would continue to be under pressure by the Crew attack. Jason Garey made quite a run in the 17th minute, but was taken down in the box without a call. Penedo would respond with an assortment of saves in the 18th, 30th, and 32nd minutes as the hometown Crew pushed forward early and often. Halftime would come with little fanfare as the Crew held their 1-0 lead. The legendary Guatemalan club still found themselves in the game thanks to an MVP-type performance by their keeper, who had four saves in the first half. Municipal could have faced a much deeper deficit going into the second half without Penedo's solid play in goal.

Municipal would make two substitutes at the half, hoping to change the momentum of the match. Gruenebaum would be forced to make a quick save just a few minutes in as the Reds started the attack. Garey and Schelotto would link up for a nice run in the 50th minute, but the play was broken up before a legitimate scoring opportunity could be had.

The pressure on Municipal continued in the 59th as Penedo got a hand on a shot, which resulted in a Schelotto corner kick. Hejduk would take a shot of his own moments later, but it landed squarely in the hands of the keeper.

The legendary Guillermo Barros Schelotto would have quite an opportunity in the 61st minute, receiving a perfect pass with space to work. Schelotto took the uncontested shot with considerable power, but it drifted up and over the bar. Chad Marshall would follow up with a narrow miss off a header during some seriously physical play in the box.

The Crew would continue their aggressive push forward in the 70th as Eddie Gaven's shot went just wide of the goal. The always dangerous Emilio Renteria would enter the match in place of Adam Moffat in the 70th. Columbus would continue to commit lots of players forward in the attack, creating lots of opportunities.

Gaven would make another run at the goal in the 77th, but got tangled up with the Los Rojos keeper. The Crew's dominance continued even though the scoreboard showed just a 1-0 lead for the Crew.

Ekpo took a hard challenge in the 82nd, but it did not warrant a call from referee Roberto Garcia. He would be subbed off for Leandre Griffit a moment later. A heated conversation between Renteria and Garcia would result in a yellow card in the 86th, but the very physical play continued.

The Crew closed out the final minutes of the game with little suspense and no change in the score. Clearly it was a good start to the competition for the Crew.

"I thought we created a pretty good amount of chances," Crew striker Jason Garey commented. "It could have been 2, 3, 4 for us. That is something we are going to work on, but we are just happy with three points."

The Crew return to MLS action this Saturday against the Colorado Rapids as they continue to maneuver through a crowded schedule. Columbus will then transition back to CCL play on August 24th as they head to Mexico to face Santos Laguna.

The sheer number of games in a short period of time is demanding for players, but definitely doable for the experienced Crew squad. "We can keep our own style, that's the way we like to play," Crew midfielder Adam Moffat stated. "If it's a battling game, we can battle. If it's a passing game, we can pass. We are quite versatile that way."

Columbus Crew Starting XI- GK Andy Gruenebaum, DEF Frankie Hejduk (C), DEF Andy Iro, DEF Chad Marshall, DEF Shaun Francis, MID Eddie Gaven, MID Adam Moffat, MID Danny O'Rourke, MID Emmanuel Ekpo, FWD Guillermo Barros Schelotto, FWD Jason Garey

Municipal Starting XI- GK Jaime Penedo, DEF Jaime Vides, DEF Pablo Melgar, DEF Yony Flores, DEF Pablo Soloranzo, MID Gustavo Cabrera, MID Cristian Noriega, MID Sergio Guevara, MID Gonzalo Romero (C), MID Guillermo Ramirez, FWD Mario Rodriguez

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U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM SET TO FACE POLAND ON OCT. 9 AT CHICAGO’S SOLDIER FIELD 

CHICAGO, IL - Aug. 18, 2010 - The U.S. Men’s National Team will face Poland on Oct. 9 in Chicago, the home of the U.S. Soccer Federation.  Kickoff at Soldier Field is set for 7 p.m. CT, and the match will be broadcast live on Fox Soccer Channel and the Univision networks.  Fans can also follow along on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker and twitter.com/ussoccer.

Ticket information for the match will be available in the near future.

"These fixture dates are a fantastic opportunity to have the group together for an extended period and then put the work to the test with a difficult match,” said U.S. head coach Bob Bradley.  “We know this is an important opportunity for Poland as they prepare for the 2012 European Championship, so we expect a challenging game.  Chicago has a fantastic tradition of supporting soccer and the U.S. national team, and with the large Polish community in the area it should make for an exciting atmosphere.”

Against Poland, the United States has an all-time record of 7-7-2 in a series dating back to 1924.  The teams have met seven times previously on U.S. soil, Poland holding a 4-2-1 advantage. Their most recent encounter in the United States came July 11, 2004, when Carlos Bocanegra equalized in the 88th minute to lift the U.S. to a 1-1 draw in front of nearly 40,000 fans at Soldier Field. The teams last met on March 26, 2008 in Krakow, where goals from Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu and Eddie Lewis paced the U.S. to a comprehensive 3-0 victory.

Poland will co-host the 2012 European Championship along with Ukraine.  Having qualified for the FIFA World Cup seven times, the Poles twice finished in third place in that tournament, in 1974 and 1982. 

After an 11-year absence from Chicago, the U.S. will now be playing its sixth match at Soldier Field since 2004. Having hosted the semifinal and the sold-out final of the 2007 Gold Cup in which 60,000 fans saw the United States defeat Mexico 2-1 to secure its second-consecutive Gold Cup title, the Windy City also welcomed nearly 48,000 fans in 2005 when the U.S. suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of England. The U.S. has a 3-3-2 record in Chicago since 1992, which includes a win against No. 8-ranked Portugal and a draw with four-time World Cup Champion Italy.

CREW FALLS TO REAL SALT LAKE 2-0 SATURDAY AT RIO TINTO STADIUM

SANDY, UT - August 14, 2010 - Javier Morales scored both goals as Real Salt Lake defeated the Eastern Conference-leading Columbus Crew, 2-0, Saturday at Rio Tinto Stadium in a match between the past two MLS champions.

RSL struck just 11 minutes in as Fabian Espindola found fellow Argentine Morales with space to work on a short corner kick. Morales appeared to move in to float a cross to his fellow attackers, but instead he blasted the ball off the far post and in. The Crew nearly scored late in the first half when Steven Lenhart received a cross into the box and managed to get a head on the ball that forced RSL keeper Nick Rimando into a fine diving save at the far post.

Columbus came out with much more attacking fight in the second half, creating a couple of good chances early on. In the 54th minute, Adam Moffat challenged Rimando with a left-footed strike that forced the RSL keeper to once again come up with an acrobatic diving save. However, Morales capitalized on a free kick from just outside the area in the 59th minute, drilling a low shot that went through the wall and bounded past Hesmer to give RSL a 2-0 advantage.

Columbus was left playing catch-up and kept pressing hard. Its best chance of the night came in the 87th minute off a chip by substitute forward Leandre Griffit, who caught Rimando off his line. But the RSL 'keeper made a last minute leap that preserved the clean sheet.

RICHMOND DRAWS IN FINAL FIGHT

By Katie Mawyer

RICHMOND, VA - August 14, 2010 - The Richmond Kickers were back in action Saturday night at UR Stadium to host the Real Maryland Monarchs in the regular season finale. The match marked the fourth meeting between the two clubs. The first three were played across two weeks to open the season; two ended in Richmond’s favor, the other in a draw—and the fourth meeting would end just the same as the clubs placed the final stamp on the series this summer in a 1-1 draw.

The third annual “FAMILY FEST” rang in with a breezy 80-degrees and fans were in great attendance. The festivities began at 4 PM and consisted of games, inflatable attractions, food, and music; Kicker fans attended the game for just $10 per family if arriving before 6 PM. Fans swarmed City Stadium and continued to show their enthusiasm for the finale well in to the start of the match.

A sluggish start began the match. Richmond’s attempt in the 38th minute almost secured a goal; however, the goal post stood in the way of a rebound shot in to the goal. Further saves by Monarch goalkeeper Brian Visser concluded the first half 0-0.  

The scoreboard saw its first change in the second half’s second minute of play when Monarch midfielder Alan Sanchez took a shot just inside the box, placing the ball in the top center of the net. With Real Maryland leading 1-0, Richmond quickened the pace of their game taking shots on goal with each possession. Visser remained on his feet saving shots from Kicker forwards.

Kickers fans released sighs after each attempt on goal. In the 65th minute, another attempt was offset when the ball bounced off the crossbar; Richmond continued in search of vengeance. In the following minutes, several shots sailed over the goal.

After taking several shots on goal, Kicker midfielder Jonathan Villanueva was successful in the 73rd minute. He was wide open and took a left-footed shot about 25-30 yards outside the goal, tying up the game 1-1.

And that’s all it took for Richmond to gain momentum and Real Maryland to tally-up yellow cards.

In the 75th minute, Kicker midfielder Neil Barlow ran down right field toward the goal as a Monarch defender came from behind with a trip. Richmond took a penalty kick of which would have given Richmond the lead; however, Monarch goalkeeper Visser prevented Richmond from doing so with a save by his right foot, sending the ball up and out of bounds.

The second-half action certainly didn’t disappoint fans, most of who by this time were no longer sitting down in City Stadium. And as if the fans weren’t already biting their nails, referees added four minutes of stoppage time to regulation.

Kickers goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale made his save of the night just moments before the end of stoppage time. His save ended the match in a 1-1 draw.

Richmond now holds a 5-1-2 series against Real Maryland. While the Monarchs seasons came to close after Saturday’s match, Richmond will move forward to the USL-2 division playoffs. In the July 31 match, Richmond guaranteed either a first or second place league finish by edging the Harrisburg Islanders 1-0.

Richmond (9-5-6) entered the Aug. 14 match against the Monarchs just three points behind USL-2 leader Charleston Battery. The Battery won their Aug. 14 match against the Charlotte Eagles 3-0, awarding themselves with an additional three points and the USL-2 regular season title. The win secured the Battery’s No.1 seed in the USL-2 Championship game which is to be played Aug. 28.

The Kickers will return to UR Stadium to host the third-place Pittsburg Riverhounds on Aug. 21. The winner of the 7 PM semifinal match will continue on to meet Charleston at the championship. Tickets for the Aug. 21 match can be purchased online via RichmondKickers.com.

AZTEX DEFEAT ROWDIES IN TENSE MATCH

By Kacey Cherry

AUSTIN, TX - August 12, 2010 - The Austin Aztex defeated the Tampa Bay Rowdies 4-2 in a thrilling match last night with all 6 goals coming from the action-packed first half. The match was riddled with many controversial calls from referee Niko Bratsis as a questionable goal by Jay Needham and a red card to Long Tan was given.

“There were some big decisions tonight that [Tampa Bay] will probably feel went against them. But I always thought we were going to score more than them tonight,” said Aztex Head Coach Adrian Heath.

In the last two meetings between the teams the Aztex gave away late goals to be held to a draw against Tampa Bay.

The Aztex were eager not to repeat history as the first goal came from the second shot of the game. Aztex defender Jay Needham finished with his head from a corner kick by Jamie Watson in the 14th minute.

After the first goal, the game truly opened up with Lance Watson running onto a cross from Maxwell Griffin to tap in the ball right on the goal line.

Seconds later Tampa Bay retaliated by referee Bratsis awarding a penalty kick for a foul by Aztex defender Kevin Sakuda on forward Aaron King.  Ricardo Sanchez stepped up to take the kick and sent Aztex goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo the wrong way as the score became 2-1.

Sanchez again punished the Aztex as he was able to split the defense with a through pass to Tan who brilliantly timed his run to beat the offside’s trap. Tan was one on one with Gallardo and tied the score up in the 24th minute.

Ten minutes later Jay Needham scored his second goal of the night with once again an assist from Watson’s cross. However, the goal is highly debated as Rowdie goalkeeper Darryl Sattler insists the ball never crossed the goal line: “There are maybe 10 players around the ball and no one saw the ball cross the line. The linesman calls it a goal as the ball is already cleared out and 30 yards away. We were right in front of it. I disagree with him, but that’s just part of the game.”

The decision by the referee would continue to go against Tampa Bay as they were reduced to 10 men with Tan receiving a red card in minute 38. Tan was dismissed for fouling Tyler Hemming for throwing his elbows out when jumping in the air to receive a ball.

“I thought the sending off was harsh. Everyone uses their arm to give them leverage when jumping in the air. We have known [Tan] for a long time and he is not malicious,” said Heath.

In the final minutes of the first half, Maxwell Griffin dribbled into the penalty box and shot to the corner of the goal, giving the game its final goal with a score of 4-2.

Despite the win, Heath voiced his concern over the performance of his players: “I felt we were very careless tonight. We were careless in our passing, in our decision making. I felt some of our play was good, some was lackluster, and some was careless,” said Heath.

The play involving new signing Randi Patterson was positive as he pressured and attacked the goal when he came on as a substitute in the second half. His performance was reflected in Heath’s glowing reviews: “He is just the type of player we are looking for.”

“I’m glad to be here,” said Patterson after the game. “I am also extremely happy we were able to get a win tonight.”

The Aztex will next venture overseas for their next match in Puerto Rico against the Islanders on August 14th.

USA FALLS TO BRAZIL 2-0 AT THE NEW MEADOWLANDS STADIUM

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - August 10, 2010 - The U.S. Men’s National Team fell 2-0 to Brazil in the first match for both teams since the end of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The match was played in front of a crowd of 77,223 on a balmy night at the New Meadowlands Stadium. 

U.S. head coach Bob Bradley started nine players who were members of the 2010 World Cup Team, including team captain Carlos Bocanegra, goalkeeper Tim Howard, midfielder Michael Bradley and forward Landon Donovan. The two players getting starts who were not in South Africa were Omar Gonzalez, who earned his first full national team cap in the center of the defense, and Alejandro Bedoya, who earned his fourth cap after getting the nod at right midfield. 

"Early on, the ball was moving quickly and we had good energy,” said U.S. head coach Bob Bradley. “The fact that we were not able to sustain that is certainly more of an indication of where the players are at this point in the year in terms of pre-seasons. 

“We were able to reestablish ourselves in the second half but I would still say it shows that defending against the best teams in World Cup or teams like Brazil is just something we need to work on. To be able to play in these kinds of games where you can be dangerous with the ball, move it quickly, create chances and still defend, that's what we're always shooting for."

Brazil, playing its first game under new head coach Mano Menezes, brought a young team to the friendly, but did start all four players on its roster who represented Brazil in South Africa: defenders Thiago Silva and Dani Alves and midfielders Robinho and Ramires. 

The U.S. had the first good chance of the game which came in the third minute as Edson Buddle did well to evade a defender and played a short penetrating pass to Landon Donovan who was cutting into the penalty box. Donovan deftly touched the ball past David Luiz and then rode the tackle of Thiago Silva, but the U.S. forward did not go down in the box and the ball was toe-poked away for a corner kick. 

Brazil utilized its outside backs well to control the pace of the game in the first half and opened the scoring in the 28th minute off a cross from left back Andre Santos. Neymar created a bit of space to free himself from U.S. defender Jonathan Bornstein and headed the ball into the lower left corner from 10 yards out. 

Brazil scored its second goal in stoppage time of the first half as a nice build-up through the center of the midfield led to Ramires playing a ball behind the U.S. defense to Pato. The AC Milan striker had plenty of time and space to evade Howard with a dribble to the right before rolling the ball into the open net. 

Earlier in the half, Brazil also appeared to score in the 32nd minute, but Pato ran over Howard as he bundled the ball into the goal and the tally was quickly waved off for a foul. 

The USA threatened twice more in the first half as Brazilian goalkeeper Victor had to punch away a free kick service from Donovan and Bocanegra headed a corner kick service over the crossbar in the 40th minute. 

Bradley made three changes at halftime, sending on Sacha Kljestan for Benny Feilhaber, Jozy Altidore for Buddle and changed ‘keepers, giving Brad Guzan 45 minutes in place of Howard. 

Just seconds into the second half, Pato got through in the left side of the penalty box, but drilled his shot into the side netting. Brazil’s other second half chances included Robinho hitting the right goal post after a scramble inside the box in the 53rd minute and Neymar pounding a shot at the U.S. goal from the left side of the penalty area in the 61st minute, but Guzan did well to bat that chance away at the near post.

The USA also had a goal called back in the 56th minute when Kljestan bent a cross into the penalty area after receiving a short corner kick from Donovan. The cross was perfect, but Michael Bradley was in an offside position when he headed the ball into the roof of the net from inside the six-yard box. 

In the 67th minute, Kljestan struck a free kick from just outside the penalty box on the left side that Victor had to smother at the near post. 

Both teams made numerous substitutions during the match, with Bradley using all six of his allowed changes and Menezes calling on five of his reserves. World Cup squad members Robbie Findley and Herculez Gomez entered the fray in the second half, in the 62nd and 67th minute, respectively. When Findley replaced Donovan, the New Meadowlands Stadium crowd rose to their feet to applaud the three-goal scorer from the 2010 World Cup. 

The USA’s best chance of the match came in the 85th minute, when substitute Gomez nearly pulled a goal back. Right back Jonathan Spector whipped in a trademark bending cross, which Gomez met at the near post. His downward header was firm but Victor did well to scrape the ball around the side of the post. 

Guzan was called to action in second-half stoppage time as Andre Santos received the ball from Ganso in a dangerous position in the box. Santos’ shot was firm but Guzan did superb to get down to his right and block the ball out of bounds for a corner. 

On the final whistle, the crowd rose to show their appreciation for a U.S. team who captured their imagination during this memorable World Cup summer. The U.S. players acknowledged their fans and applauded the support while standing in the center circle as fireworks were set off around the stadium.

LOUIE, LOUIE KEEPS THE BALL ROLLING IN PITTSBURGH

Vortex star shines brightly in the Steel City

By Robert Ivory

How ironic is this…a Cleveland native is helping a Pittsburgh team push for the playoffs?

Defender Louis Rolko has made his name known throughout the USL-2 this year with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, a team that will soon qualify for the playoffs, but still is jumbled for the last two playoff spots.

“I did catch a little slack for being from Cleveland,” Louis joked about playing in a city that Clevelanders generally do not like. “When we go out to camps I usually tell people my name and that ‘I am from the greatest city in the world.’ Then all the kids ask what city I am from and when I say Cleveland they start booing.”

All joking aside, ‘Louie’ (as he is better known by) has represented his city well with the Riverhounds, as he is a part of a special breed of defenders that hail from Northeast Ohio (Dasan Robinson of the Chicago Fire and Barry Rice of D.C. United).

When asked why Cleveland had done so well, the defender said, “I think there is a good level of coaching there. Growing up I think I was very lucky to have coaches with World Cup and professional experience. Foreign coaches especially gave their insight to the game and that has been very beneficial to us.”

Rolko added that playing with different nationalities adds flavor and competition that players may not get at another place. “I think that is unique to our area.”

Cleveland has seen her players play in different levels of soccer throughout the country, but without a team of her own, one may wonder if Cleveland can continue to give the game the great players like it has. Rolko disagrees and adds, “I think the quality (of players) is there, even the college programs in the area will help put good players out there even though they are lacking that next level.”

Like most other athletes in the country, Louis had to choose the sport that fitted him best, “When I was 10 I played baseball, basketball, football and soccer. Football was first to go because it was the biggest conflict with soccer, then basketball went because it wasn’t fun, and then baseball went because of the time commitment.”

Louie points out that he had to give all to his commitments. “It was almost impossible and unfair to the other players on my team in the other sports because I was not always going to be there, and I had to have a full commitment in one sport.”

Not only has Louis committed to several different teams in his career, but he has spent time indoors, recently with the Ohio Vortex, of the Professional Arena Soccer League (PASL). “Playing with the Vortex was different,” he said. “Nobody really teaches you how to play indoor soccer, so there was a big adjustment and a big change. I think we were lucky to have Denzil (Antonio) as our coach, since he has a wealth of indoor experience. I think it was a good experience and I really look forward to playing with those guys again.”

Louis is surrounded, in Pittsburgh, by another Cleveland native, “I did not know Jeremy (Deighton), of Broadview Heights, until I met him here. We have gotten to know each other and we live together, so it’s cool getting to play with somebody from Cleveland. When we go back (to Cleveland in the offseason), we’ll probably train with each other.”

Now these two Clevelanders will be searching for a USL-2 crown, no matter how big of a rivalry Cleveland and Pittsburgh have.

CREW DOWN MORENO AND THE UNION

CHESTER, PA - August 5, 2010 - Two goals from substitute Steven Lenhart was the difference in the Crew's 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union at PPL Park on Thursday night.

The Crew's first-ever meeting with the expansion Union was televised live nationally on ESPN2. Lenhart, who entered the game in the 27th minute for Jason Garey who was forced to leave with a stomach ailment, powered home two headed goals to put a dent in the Union's impressive home record while helping his Eastern Conference-leading Crew bounce back from a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Chivas USA last weekend.

Scoring on either side of halftime, Lenhart's first strike was matched by a Sebastien Le Toux penalty kick just before the break, but the Union weren't able to bounce back a second time. It was Lenhart's first two-goal game in league play.

THE BEST FORM OF ATTACK: MOVE FOR DEFENSIVE MIDFIELDER MARQUEZ SIGNALS INTENT

By Adam Stern

If the age-old adage that defense wins championships is true, you probably couldn’t deduce as much from MLS’s Designated Player list before Wednesday.

DP’s— MLS’s artful attempt to attract the world’s best players while striking a balance between the former NASL’s over-paying madness and the league’s otherwise relatively low spending compared to that of major leagues elsewhere in the world— are, in theory, acquired to help their teams to achieve the ultimate aspiration: Securing silverware.

However up to this point, nearly all DPs have been offensive players; tricky, if not flashy, attacking gems catering to goal-fiends and families who are, above all, looking to take in as many goals and good times from global demigods as possible.

Yet with the New York Red Bulls, MLS’s newest and most prominent evil empire, already now boasting the league’s most formidable strike force in Thierry Henry and Juan Pablo Angel— who could, quite frankly, still start for at least half the teams in any league in the world— the Red Bulls front office finally turned their attention to showing the rest of the league how influential a defensive Designated Player signing can be too when they announced the long-awaited arrival of defensive midfielder Rafael Marquez.

Marquez, the 31 year-old Mexican international who is fresh from F.C. Barcelona and would have almost certainly landed at a fellow highly prestigious European club if he hadn’t become NYRB’s third and final DP, will instantly bring such undoubted class to the Red Bull lineup that head coach Hans Backe will be synchronizing the team’s formation around Marquez; perhaps more accurately, around those sides Marquez has been so successful in.

Though keeping with the 4-4-2 he instituted when he became manager this past winter, Backe stated he would be switching to a diamond shape to play Marquez in his patented defensive midfield position, a spot that allows him to take care of the dirty work where it counts most: In between the midfield and defensive lines, where space is either created and utilized by an opposing attacker or snuffed out and turned back into possession by the defensive midfielder.

With play in front of him, Marquez will make that possession in significantly more sophisticated, too. Though lacking a potent scoring prowess, the Mexican international posses an exceptional passing repertoire that could see the making of a devastating counter-attack between Angel, Henry and teammates like Mac Kandji and Joel Lindpere— who set Henry’s debut goal against Tottenham two weeks ago.

Behind him, Red Bull’s center back pairing of Tim Ream and Carlos Mendes should also be big time benefactors of a player that will gobble up a sizeable portion of the loose balls that have been dumped in their direction this season; a feat which should let the defenders focus more on marking those who get through (highlighted when the team gave up a stoppage-time equalizer off a header from a cross in last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Houston).

And around him, the diamond-shaped midfield could be implemented with instant payoff if Backe can position the right players into the right spots on a roster that already has a host of midfield options, including players like Joel Lindpere and Mac Kandji—both of whom greatly raised their level of play in the recent Barclays New York Challenge, where Henry made his debut, to the extent that Kandji attracted interest from the other European teams involved in the tournament.

All in all, New York (and yes, MLS too) is gaining another world-class player, in an increasingly critical position in world soccer, who chose to come over to the United States because he had achieved everything he could in Europe and wanted to achieve something new; intentions that bode well for the leagues growth that seem apparent, if at times abstract.

Red Bulls aggressive captures of three world-class players bode well for the league equally, and their tremendous trifecta will now be coming to an American city near you, believe it or not. The organization now finally has the tools to bring the club its first MLS Cup.

Indeed, it seems Angel and Henry— the offense— were brought in to help the team win games; Marquez— the new dominant defenseman— to win championships.

AZTEX ARE NOW EVEN MORE DANGEROUS

Austin has just added another weapon to their attacking arsenal with the acquisition of forward Randi Patterson from Baltimore Crystal Palace, pending league approval.

Patterson was picked up by the Aztex for an undisclosed transfer fee with his contract running through the rest of this season with an option for the 2011 season.

The 25 year old forward comes from Baltimore Crystal Palace where he notched four goals in 17 appearances for the club.

Prior to playing with Baltimore, Patterson suited up for the Charleston Battery, New York Red Bulls and the Carolina Dynamo. Through his entire professional career Patterson has scored 39 goals and added three assists in 101 total appearances.

Patterson originally hails from Hackensack, New Jersey and played his college ball at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. At UNC-Greensboro Patterson was twice named Southern Conference Player of the Year and finished his collegiate career with 61 goals and 19 assists.

Although he was born inside the United States, Patterson has elected to pledge his services to the Trinidadian National Team. In March of 2008 Patterson made his debut for the Soca Warriors when they took on El Salvador.

The young forward will meet up and begin training with his new teammates later this week and will be available for the Aztex next match which is August 7 at 7:30 p.m. at House Park against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

AZTEX PUSH HIGHER WITH WIN OVER MIAMI

By Kacey Cherry

AUSTIN, TX - July 31, 2010 - The Austin Aztex won 3-1 at House Park against Miami FC Saturday night as Eddie Johnson, Lawrence Olum and newcomer Kendall McFayden all entered the scoring sheet. However, despite the score line, the Aztex missed many scoring opportunities and were lucky to walk away with a two goal lead.

Aztex Head Coach Adrian Heath voiced his discontent with his team’s performance: “I thought we were very wasteful in the first half. To be honest, I’m a little bit disappointed with us tonight.  We were sloppy in a lot of things we did; I think overall it was a sub-par performance.”

The Aztex pressured hard in the first 10 minutes where the score easily could have been 3-0.

Eddie Johnson in the 8th minute ran onto a ball played over the top, beating the defense and taking a onetime shot that went wide of the goal. A corner from Jamie Watson met Lawrence Olum’s head; however Miami player Mike Randolph cleared the ball off the goal line in the 10th minute.

Miami’s best chance of the first half came after Abe Thompson took a shot from 25 yards out. The shot deflected off Aztex keeper Miguel Gallardo and he was forced to leave his goal line to retrieve the loose ball. Thompson ran onto the ball and took a second shot from inside the box into an open goal but was saved by off the goal line from an Aztex player. Gallardo was then able to scramble back to make the final save.

“It’s uncomfortable for any goalie to come out of his goal but sometimes that’s just how it goes,” said Gallardo about the save. “Fortunately I was able to come out and I was able to beat the guy. Unfortunately they were able to get the rebound, but I was luckily able to get back and make the save.”

Minutes later, the Aztex offense was able to reward the defense’s close encounter by leading 1-0 in the 44th minute. An assist from Lawrence Griffin met Eddie Johnson as he headed the ball into the back of the net.

The second goal came early in the second half with Jamie Watson crossing a low ball to Olum, who tapped the ball in with his left foot to the back corner.

However, those reminiscent of last season were reminded of how the Aztex sometimes struggle with holding off late goals from the opposing teams.

The Aztex defense failed to mark their players as Miami was allowed to dribble inside the box and Paulo Araujo Jr. to take a shot. The shot ricocheted off a Miami player to reach a completely unmarked Thompson, who then took the rebound and scored in the 75th minute.

In extra time, Aztex substitute McFayden ran in behind the Miami defense and beat the goalkeeper in a one versus one to have the game end with the score of 3-1.

This was McFayden’s first goal and season appearance in league play and the Aztex players showed their appreciation by dumping a full water cooler all over the newcomer.

“It’s a dream come true,” said McFayden about the goal. “I have been waiting to have my number called since the beginning of the season. To be called up to the professional team after being on the U-23 team is an amazing opportunity.”

This win marks the Aztex having only lost 1 of their last 18 regular season games and they remain in first place in the USL Conference.

The game also was for a good cause as the Aztex teamed up with The Breast Cancer Research of Texas to auction off autographed warm-ups from the Aztex players to benefit breast cancer research.

The Aztex’s next home game is this Saturday against the Tampa Bay Rowdies at 7:30.

CREW FALLS TO CHIVAS USA 3-1 SATURDAY AT HOME DEPOT CENTER

Lenhart nets lone Columbus goal; Black & Gold's lead in East now seven points over New York

CARSON, CA - July 31, 2010 - Chivas USA extended its MLS unbeaten streak to four games on Saturday evening with a 3-1 victory over Eastern Conference leaders Columbus at The Home Depot Center on Saturday night. The Crew is now seven points ahead of New York in the East. The Red Bulls played Houston to a 2-2 draw on Saturday.

Justin Braun, Blair Gavin, and Carlos Borja scored for Chivas, while Steven Lenhart netted late for the Crew. In the 88th minute, Jason Garey chipped a ball into the Chivas area from the right flank that found Lenhart in the air. Without missing a beat, Lenhart calmly headed past a charging Dan Kennedy.

Just 15 minutes in, midfielder Eddie Gaven suffered a head injury when he collided with Kennedy's knee. He was forced to leave the game and was replaced by Robbie Rogers.

A BIG DAY FOR JOHN O’SHEA

Man U defender and Concave frontman shares thoughts on MLS, Irish football, and the Premiership

By Gary L. Moody Jr.

Over 44,000 fans traveled to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to see the world’s most valuable sports franchise in action.  Manchester United, valued at $1.84 billion in a recent report by Forbes magazine, defeated the Philadelphia Union 1-0 using a mix of regular starters and youth. 

Most of the crowd was loyal to the Red Devils and came to see their stars that made the trip for the North American Tour.  Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Dimitar Berbatov, and Edwin van der Sar all made appearances for Man U, but it was defender John O’Shea who quietly gained the attention of fans.

O’Shea spent extra time with reporters, but more importantly signed autographs and had pictures taken with young fans.  He didn’t do it for the fanfare, but as a goodwill gesture in a nation that has yet to fully embrace the beautiful game.  O’Shea was also quick to praise United’s opponent for the night. “It has been obviously very impressive tonight in particular,” the Waterford, Republic of Ireland native commented.  “I was impressed with a lot of their play. Physically they are definitely capable of playing at much higher levels.”

The Man U defender with over 350 appearances under his belt was quick to show optimism towards MLS and American soccer as a whole.  “It is only a matter of time before the league gets better and better,” O’Shea declared. “I particularly watched America in the World Cup as well. You see the standard of players that they have.  Lots of their outstanding players are in the MLS.”

When asked the ever popular question about coming to play in MLS later in his career, O’Shea replied, “I would like to come maybe one day, you never know.  It’s just a big if as they say.  I am very happy, very happy playing in England and playing with Manchester United.  You can’t get much better than that.”

It is certain that O’Shea has wisdom beyond his 29 years.  He has a great perspective on the game as a whole and is fully aware of what to expect in the 2010/11 season.  He was able to provide a scouting report of their competition in the Premiership. “It’s going to be the same guys again. Manchester City, Liverpool are starting to sign some players again. Then you have obviously the reigning champions Chelsea. They are looking to improve their squad all the time. Arsenal, the younger players are getting more mature. It is definitely going to be so close again. We lost it last season by a point. Hopefully we can be on the other side of it this season.”

A player who has dedicated his entire career to the Red Devils, O’Shea knows what it will take to bring home the hardware at the end of the season. “Just the consistency in our team. It makes a huge benefit if you can keep the core of the team fit for the whole season. We had too many interruptions last season with injuries.”   

The dedication and passion O’Shea shows for the game can also be found in his service to the Republic of Ireland National Team.  He is a valuable member of the squad that is looking forward to the Euros and the 2014 World Cup. “We are definitely on the improve with the manager we have, Trapattoni. And the young players that he is trying to introduce into the team also. We played two friendly games at the end of last season. We beat Paraguay and we beat Algeria, obviously two teams that went to the World Cup. We used them as stepping stones obviously for the European qualifiers.”

“We have an easy game against Argentina,” O’Shea said jokingly.  “In a friendly match to open up our new stadium, the Aviva Stadium in early August.  That is going to be great preparation for the beginning of the qualifiers in September. We all know what happened in the qualifying for the last World Cup, how close we got.”

The player known as ‘Mr. Versatile’ by many in the Premiership was kind enough to offer his thoughts on the U.S. Men’s National Team as well. “They were very unlucky in the World Cup I thought.  Obviously they topped the group, but they had a lot of decisions go against them too. They have lots of players now attracting a lot of the big clubs in Europe.” O’Shea sure knows a thing or two about bad luck as his Ireland squad was denied a trip to the World Cup by the controversial Thierry Henry handball.

You can understand why Concave Sports chose John O’Shea as the face of their brand.  He is often described as a coach’s dream, a world-class player who cares about how the game is played and has given his all for his club and country. 

O’Shea was proud to discuss his involvement in Concave Sports and their line of high tech, revolutionary football boots.  “They are a young and up and coming company. They have a lot of obviously stiff competition. I am just hoping that I can play a part in them becoming more successful. I tested out the boots extensively before I wore them.  Eventually decided they were good enough to put my name to them and to wear them. Everything has been great since.”

He was eager to point out what separates Concave from the competition. “They have to have a bit of a different edge to them.  The protection that it is going to give and when you are striking the ball the power you can get from it. It’s definitely going to be a huge advantage.”

Concave Sports is lucky to have O’Shea leading the charge in the football boot market.  You couldn’t pick a better person or player to be the name behind the brand. 

Philadelphia Union vs. Manchester United Match Photos

Philadelphia Union vs. Manchester United Facebook Photos

CREW TROUNCE DYNAMO AND MOVE EIGHT AHEAD OF NY

By Robert Ivory

COLUMBUS, OH - July 24, 2010 - Only two weeks removed from both the Crew and the Dynamo drawing nil-nil in Houston, the two teams returned for a fixture in Columbus. But, there would be no tie at Crew Stadium as the Crew took out Houston, 3-0 Saturday night in front of 13,585 enthusiastic fans. The Crew (10-3-4, 34 pts) would get a goal gift wrapped to Emilio Renteria (his fourth of the year), and goals from Andy Iro and Léandre Griffit (his first MLS goal). Houston (5-8-4, 19 pts) have not won since their May 22nd clash with D.C. United.

The matchup included Crew forward Emilio Renteria’s first consecutive games in the starting eleven and Shaun Francis making his first ever MLS start in a Crew uniform at left back.

The Crew were the first to score as Dynamo keeper Tally Hall, making only his second career MLS start, should be nominated for ‘Gift of the Year Award.’ Crew midfielder Eddie Gaven played a long ball down the right side over the Dynamo defense. Renteria beat his defender, but Hall should have had no problems booting the ball away as he charged at it at the outside of the box.

However, he tried to dive backwards to land on the ball in the box, but missed, leaving only Renteria and the ball in between the goal. It was 1-0 Crew as Renteria broke out the dance party. The goal in the 34th minute also marked his second goal in his last two games.

“I feel really proud of my second goal (two in two weeks),” the forward said through a translator. “It just says that I can score and I am happy that I can bring a lot to the team.”

The Crew finished the half ahead and looked to have a tight hold around the Dynamo, as the Crew had nine shots, three of which were on goal.

Dynamo defender Bobby Boswell went off in the 72nd minute as he received his second caution for what looked to be a knock to Renteria, as the Crew forward tried to get past Boswell. Renteria, who had been fouled hard and often throughout the game, was immediately subbed off by Crew Head Coach Robert Warzycha with what looked to be a left calf injury.

“My leg is not bothering me right now,” Renteria said after the game. He did add that it may hurt later on in the week.

The Crew added goal number two in the 84’ to seal the deal. A free kick from Guillermo Barros Schelotto from the right corner was placed perfectly to the unmarked Andy Iro in the box and he put it in the back of the net to make it a 2-0 advantage for the Crew.

After Crew midfielder Robbie Rogers was taken off in the 88’, Léandre Griffit made his MLS and Crew debut. The 26 year old did not disappoint as the French international scored his first MLS goal only minutes from coming in. He was able to put away a ball that was scrambling around in the box. Hall made a save, but Griffit got the rebound, dribbled, and put in another goal in stoppage time.

“I have been working really hard. You have to do something in two minutes to let coach know you are here,” he said.

Houston have now only gotten three points out of their last seven games, but Columbus had put in five goals in two games after going three straight games without a tally. The Crew are now eight points ahead of the New York Red Bulls in the East, but New York has a game in hand. Columbus travel for three straight road matches in a row.

KICKERS BEAT PITTSBURGH HEAT

By Katie Mawyer

RICHMOND, VA – July 24, 2010 – The Richmond Kickers faced a traditional dog day of summer in a Saturday evening match against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. The 7 PM match marked the fourth meeting between the two clubs this season; the Riverhounds defeated the Kickers in all previous games, and Richmond was sure to change it up this time by ousting Pittsburgh 1-0.

The evening included several activities for all in attendance. Fans participated in hot yoga exercises to burn the calories they would only recount at the Tropical Shaved Kona Ice booth. Kicker fans were friends to those on four legs as well; numerous fans attended the match with their best friends to honor SPCA night. “Tail Wag’ N” provided a station with miniature pools for cats and dogs, both big and small, to cool down.

Despite the triple-digit heat, loyal fans came out to show support, and they didn’t have to wait long for some action. In the ninth minute of play, a cross from midfielder Dave Hertel landed within reach of fellow midfielder Bobby Foglesong for a shot on goal, advancing the Kickers one over the Riverhounds.  

Slight disagreement occurred between Riverhound forward Lee Kouadio-Tobey and an official during the 36th minute of play. Kouadio-Tobey mishandled the ball, and out of frustration, kicked it out of the playing area. The match would continue with one minute of stoppage time, the Kickers leading 1-0 into the locker room.

Shelley Sowers and her Kicker posse put on yet another fun-filled halftime performance. Representatives from the Air-National Yoga Championship were present to illustrate their flexibility; the three performers promoted a motion to make yoga an Olympic sport. Following the exercises, the HCA Virginia Frisbee toss was on; if contestants threw their Frisbee on the target, they won a gift certificate toward future Kicker events.

The second half got off to a slow, yet cooler start as temperatures lowered. During the 54th minute, Riverhound midfielder Travis MacKenzie received a yellow card and the game continued. A substitute came into the game for midfielder Luke Vercollone after he hit the field on a previous play. Vercollone’s sister was present for the game, celebrating her 19th birthday.

Kicker forward Edson Elcock brought his game in the following minutes. He took several shots on goal, all of which were wide or blocked by Riverhound goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap (#1). During the 65th minute, Midfielder Stephen Nsereko delivered a cross from left field, which Elcock just missed. Elcock missed another opportunity in the 75th minute of play.

Eight minutes later, Kicker midfielder Ross Mackenzie made an attempt on goal, which went wide right. The Kickers continued to push toward the goal, with several additional attempts following, including another by the Elcock-Nsereko duo.

Kicker goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale had his save of the evening in the final minute of regulation. The second half saw three minutes of stoppage time, and the game would go down as a win for the Kickers.  

The Kickers earned three points with the win against the Riverhounds, giving the club 29 overall points in the standings. Richmond will continue the race for second place in the USL-2 division through their performances in the three remaining games this season. The Kickers will return to UR Stadium on July 31 when they take on the Harrisburg City Islanders for the third time this season. Tickets for the match can be purchased in advance via RichmondKickers.com.

BRING ON THE CREW

By Adam Stern

D.C. United hasn’t been feeling soccer’s most fundamental feeling— scoring a goal— a lot lately, and when they have, it’s been to tie up a match— more relief than rejoice.

But in a season where seemingly nothing can go right in league play and the antithesis is true of ties in the U.S. Open Cup— a competition in which United had reached the semifinals in the two previous seasons— Wednesday’s Open Cup quarterfinal matchup between United and USL-2’s Harrisburg City Islanders was bound to be the squad’s best opportunity to exorcise recent finishing demons.

D.C. did so: scoring 41 seconds into the start of the match— virtually the first attack, by either side, of the game— and scored their second just over a minute into the second half, never looking back in a 2-0 victory that catapults United into the Open Cup semifinals against Columbus Crew; notching the team’s semifinal streak up to three years running.

“We wanted to get this game over with early,” United’s captain on the night, Carey Talley, said. “The longer these games go with lower division teams, the tougher they get and usually don’t go the MLS team’s way.”

United’s satisfaction with the win was amplified when taking into account the first goal scorer: new Designated Player Branko Boskovic, whose finish off of Santino Quaranta’s slide-pass from the left byline was dispatched with the sort of cutting edge class that the team has been in severe search of almost since the first game of the season.

Fellow new signing Pablo Hernandez also put on quite the display; exuding confidence with superior passing exchanges in United’s attacking third with Boskovic, Quaranta and Aussie striker Danny Allsopp, who had a goal called back for offsides in the 30th minute and could have had one or two more with slightly more clinical finishing.

“I thought our approach was good; at times we played very good soccer," Head Coach Curt Onalfo said. “Most importantly we got the result.”

The Islanders' best chance came in the in the 25th minute when Kai Kasiguran blazed a half-volley attempt from the 18-yard box just over the crossbar with United goalie Bill Hamid at full stretch. However D.C.’s makeshift rearguard— on this night featuring yet another new quirk with usual midfielder Stephen King deputizing at right back— won nearly every loose ball and battle throughout and, impressively, yielded not even a single shot on goal the Islanders the entire match, let alone a goal.

D.C. put the game out of reach just 75 seconds into the second half. After Boyzzz Khumalo was put in down the right hand sideline, the South African attempted to cross the ball to onrushing teammates looking to get on the end of the offering, but scoffed so badly the cross found its way onto net instead with the goalie, anticipating a cross, caught off guard and off his line.

The week of the semifinal will be another busy one for the team: for the second time this season, D.C. will face a team in the Open Cup in the midweek before facing the same team in league play on the weekend.  United’s semifinal matchup against Columbus— who beat Charleston Battery 3-0 in the quarterfinals— will be held September 1 at 7:30 p.m. at RFK Stadium.

DESIGNATED DIVIDENDS: MLS’S TICKET TO TENURE

By Adam Stern

Right as the hype surrounding the 2010 World Cup tapers off, Major League Soccer’s quest to not let soccer fall into the American abyss of athletic apathy, once again, begins anew.

And almost as if on cue, the worst kept secret in the league’s long history of having badly kept secrets has been revealed: French legend Thierry Henry joined the New York Red Bulls on Tuesday.

The Parisian playmaker and playboy takes MLS’s Designated Players into double digits by becoming the tenth player since the rules inception in 2007—though that has quickly changed to 11 with Chicago’s acquisition of Mexican attacker Nery Castillo, which was announced Saturday night— and he will join fellow DP Juan Pablo Angel up top to form the league’s most formidable partnership.

Henry also looks set to trump, at least in soccer terms, the most designated of all Designated Players, David Beckham, whose arrival to the league appeared more about glamour than greatness and has been beset by injuries.

However the Frenchman, a longtime admirer of the United States and New York specifically, seems seamless with the spotlight and, with close friends including NBA stars Steve Nash and Tony Parker and hip-hop heavyweight Jay-Z, will be mingling well within sight of the infamous New York media’s eye.

In the process, league executives might have possibly finally found a happy medium to their Designated Player strategy— and with it a chance of breaking into America’s upper echelon of sports, which, for years, have seemed so set in popular American sentiment’s stone that one got the feeling they were carved into Mount Rushmore.

Performances on the field notwithstanding, almost all of the near dozen DP’s thus far have failed to capitalize for their clubs off the field, with the exception of David Beckham, whose chief complaint was that he sought the fanfare too much.

Henry’s aspirations to turn around a franchise whose best finish in the league’s 15 year history was a 3-1 loss to Columbus in the 2008 MLS Cup Final while showcasing his still remarkable talent will be good for the league. His constant presence throughout mainstream America, where he has the ability to turn into a media obsession, might be better.

MLS executives hope Henry’s transfer may be the catalyst towards breaking through the glass ceiling that’s left the very club he’s transferred to struggling to even come close to filling its brand new, European-styled stadium that’s described as stunning.

If successful, his ability to do so may prove twofold: While also heightening the stature of the game in the U.S., his move also significantly breaks down the barrier that stands between the world’s best player’s standards for play and MLS. Suddenly, with Henry on board, DP rumors are running wild with multiple teams rumored to be pursuing European and South American targets that may be just that much more willing to play in the league.

Real Salt Lake’s owner, Dave Checketts, let the world know as much may be true when he hinted at the L.A. Galaxy acquiring A.C. Milan’s Ronaldhino, who just recently completed an American tour with the club and is rumored to be on the outs of the Italian based team. Henry’s French compatriot, Robert Pires, has also been heavily rumored with a move over to the MLS, as have a slew of other internationals with years still left in the tank.

No one wants a retirement league; luckily Henry is years off from his, a fact he shares with most other Designated Players in the MLS.

His arrival will certainly spike ticket sales and stimulation in the short term; it’s the long-term viability MLS is beginning to aspire towards.

AZTEX REMAIN IN FIRST PLACE

By Kacey Cherry

AUSTIN, TX - July 17, 2010 - Austin Aztex extended their first place lead in the USL Conference to six points Saturday night by defeating AC St. Louis. St Louis was reduced to 10 men after a red card, but a successful penalty kick by Jamie Watson and a goal from Maxwell Griffin gave the Aztex a much deserved 2-0 victory.

“I felt our combination play was exceptional, the two wide men coming in off the line. We played some good football this evening,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath.

This was the second meeting between the two teams this season and while St. Louis had a new coach and remained undefeated in their past four games, the end result would be the same. The Aztex dominated possession with a shot count of 25 to 8 as evidence.

In the 14th minute Aztex player Jamie Watson dribbled and beat the goal keeper, Alec Dufty, only to be grabbed and held back by the St. Louis player. Dufty was cautioned and a penalty kick was given as Aztex player Eddie Johnson stepped up to take the kick. However, Johnson’s kick was saved and the score remained 0-0.

The Aztex continued to pressure the St. Louis defense and Maxwell Griffin had two near-misses within two minutes of each other.

The pressure paid off in minute 34 when a St. Louis player was shown a red card after a handball in the box. This time, Jamie Watson took the kick and scored after placing the ball to the far right corner.

“I’ve never seen a keeper save a penalty kick and then minutes later have another penalty kick. There were definitely some mind games. I just had to be confident,” said Watson.

In the second half, the speed of the Aztex allowed them to get in behind the St. Louis defense; Eddie Johnson had several goal-scoring opportunities by cleverly timing his runs.

In minute 67, Griffin controlled the ball inside the box and beat the goalkeeper on his near-post to extend the lead to two goals. 

The best chances for St. Louis came from Mike Ambersley in the 77th and 78th minute. Both of his shots troubled Aztex keeper Miguel Gallardo. Gallardo was forced to make two diving saves in order to keep the clean sheet.

The Austin Aztex have now gone five games unbeaten and will hope to continue their success with their next game at home against Miami FC on July 31st.

CREW BLANK RED BULLS 2-0

By Derek Smith

Perhaps in a response to the cries of Crew supporters across the globe, Robert Warzycha inserted Emilio Renteria into the starting lineup. Renteria did not disappoint, scoring the first Crew goal in the match, the club's first goal in the past 225 minutes. After Juan Pablo Angel lost possession of the ball in midfield, Guillermo Barros Schelloto found a streaking Renteria who calmly chipped RBNY keeper Bouna Coundoul to put the Crew up 1-0.

Shortly after halftime, Brian Carroll made the most of a bouncing ball outside of the penalty area. A few seconds later Carroll was celebrating a brilliant goal that rocketed past the outstretched Coundoul, giving the Crew the insurance goal it desperately was seeking in this Eastern Conference showdown.

The majority of the match was dominated by the Crew, with the Red Bulls having no ability to pressure the Crew into mistakes. RBNY coach Hans Backe stated in the post-match press conference that he was "embarrassed" at his team's performance. Rightly so, Mac Kandji, inserted at halftime, had the game's only real chance for the Red Bulls. In the end, the shot went wide right and the shutout was preserved.

Here are some fun observations from the match:

-- Thierry Henry not only was in attendance, but conducted interviews, signed autographs, and won the hearts of young and old alike all over Crew Stadium. David Beckham....this is how you win over America.

-- Crew defender Shawn Francis made his MLS debut and served a brilliant ball that was mishit by Emilio Renteria. Francis has surpassed expectations and has become a fixture in the 18 man gameday roster.

-- The Gahanna-Lincoln HS Boys Soccer team was honored at halftime for their State Championship in November of 2009. Better late than never.

-- The Red Bull locker room had an unusually quiet, somber atmosphere. A quiet locker room is the norm after a loss, but few players even made eye contact while being interviewed. The exception being "The Ambassador" TH14. My assumption is that Hans Backe has some choice words for his under-performing team immediately following the match.

-- The rumors in the grandstands were that Crew front office staff member Brad Kessler and Chris Wilson are no longer with the club. I hope that all is well with them and they will be missed. It's a shame two of the hardest working staff members are not with the club anymore.

-- To the 6'6” Englishman who spent 10 minutes talking about fan culture in America and England, that was one of the funniest conversations I've had in a while. Thank you.

CREW GUTTED BY LOSS TO KANSAS CITY

By Derrick Smith

COLUMBUS, OH - July 14, 2010 - On a day that began with such hope and promise, many of the Black and Gold faithful left Crew Stadium in silence. Not even the Buck-A-Brat and $1 dollar drafts could cheer them up after seeing the Crew lose 1-0 to the lowly Kansas City Wizards. With just 12 points taken in the first half of the season, the Wizards grinded out the victory for a much needed three points.

Rookie Teal Bunbury scored his first MLS goal with a well placed shot through the legs of Crew keeper William Hesmer. Bunbury, who went to college in nearby Akron, Ohio, ran to the Nordecke and sarcastically saluted the crowd in celebration of his 16th minute goal.

The Crew did put up a fight however, but every chance was swallowed up by Wizards keeper Jimmy Nielsen. At least 3 times, Nielsen saved sure goals from the Crew attackers. After the game, Nielsen and the rest of the Wizards locker room were in good spirits, looking forward to their next game against the Colorado Rapids.

Tidbits:

-- As Crew keeper William Hesmer left the field, he said to the fans that they (The Crew) will win on Saturday against the Red Bulls.

-- 11,000 + fans did make it out to Crew Stadium, disappointing given all of the promotions (or lack thereof) for this game.

-- OT Yanez (aka Othanieal Yanez) has got to be one of the nicest guys that you probably don't know. Here's to hoping the kid gets in a match later this year.

-- Le'andre Griffit was once again left off the 18 man roster for the game. Let's hope he doesn't go down the road of Sergio Herrera.

-- Once Lenhart and Rentereia were subbed into the game around the 65th minute, the game opened up. Will Coach Warzycha look to start on of the two on saturday against the Red Bulls?

-- Check that, Lenhart could have a possible broken nose given out (accidentally) by his own brother-in-law. In the waning moments the two collided as Adam Moffat connected on a cross putting a shot on goal and his bro in the hands of Paco and the rest of the training staff.

-- The Crew played well, but Jimmy Nielsen was just that much better. I would say he was so hot he was smoking.

-- No matter how good a World Cup match looks on TV, nothing beats walking into Crew Stadium and seeing the hometown team live and in person. Wherever you may be reading this article, be sure to catch your local side's match every once in a while, even if it's a PDL or USL club.

RED BULLS SIGN INTERNATIONAL STAR THIERRY HENRY