tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-291214522024-03-07T01:15:39.129-05:00Poplar Point PerspectiveA DC United Soccer Blog <br/>(Poplar Point is the future home of DC United)JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.comBlogger175125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-25071811266601927712008-07-25T10:55:00.004-04:002008-07-25T11:04:34.068-04:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Game 12 - DC United 0:2 Houston Dynamo</span><br /><br />I don't know if it is the summer doldrums, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">United's</span> recent run of losses at home, the constantly evolving schedule, or some other influence, but I'm glad there is a week and a half break until the next game. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">SuperLiga</span> was a disaster. Injuries played a large part in it, true. But a team needs to be able to absorb two or three lineup changes without falling apart. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Admittedly</span>, I was not at the game on Wednesday due to the late schedule change (and let's be honest, in hindsight it was a blessing to miss it even on TV), but the drop off from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Peralta</span> to his replacement and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gallardo</span> to his is jarring. I can remember complaining about this last season and lamenting that United were one injury away from oblivion. I can honestly say that unless <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Gallardo</span> returns at full strength United will not make the playoffs. And the next game with both <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Gonzolos</span> unavailable is not looking good. So much for all the good stuff that happened in June. DC United start over again in August. As Fred and Emilio would say, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">meu</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">deus</span>.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-60467665354367282632008-07-22T15:44:00.004-04:002008-07-22T15:48:34.880-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">DC United vs Houston Dynamo POSTPONED</span></span><br /><br />Lack of power at the stadium has caused the game to be <a href="http://blog.washingtonpost.com/soccerinsider/2008/07/breaking_news_united_game_post.html">postponed</a> until tomorrow night. Call your friends and let them know.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-54409299935923352602008-07-11T15:06:00.003-04:002008-07-11T15:21:21.832-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SuperLiga Group A - DC United vs CD Guadalajara</span></span><br /><br />DC United continue their hiatus from league play with three games in eight days for the group stage of the tournament. DC United are in the same group as Atlante, Houston Dynamo, and CD Guadalajara. CDG are coming off of a subpar year in the Mexican League and look to salvage a trophy at the expense of their neighbors to the north. CD Guadalajara eliminated DC United from the Copa Sudamericana last fall on away goals.<br /><br />Unfortunately I'll have to catch this one on TV as I have out of town guests visiting. Just glad it is on TV, unlike the US Open Cup games.<br /><br />I'm assuming United will be at full strength, minus Olsen. Gallardo has had two weeks to rest up and Moreno seemed like he was fine with his post game comments. Also, I haven't heard anything about Fred who was limping around on Tuesday, so maybe everyone will be available. Hopefully United will go out and grab the three points.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />United 1:0 CD GuadalajaraJCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-41297034062980597762008-07-08T22:09:00.003-04:002008-07-08T22:13:41.149-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">US Open Cup Quarterfinals - DC United 2:1 Chicago Fire</span><br /><br />DC United has advanced to the semifinals of the US Open Cup after outlasting Chicago in extra time. The goals were scored by two unlikely players as Doe and Namoff tallied for United. <br /><br />The win might have been costly as Moreno left the game after playing only about thirty minutes and Fred was visibly limping at the end. United will play New England in the semifinals next month at RFK.<br /><br />No grades as I listened to the game on the radio.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-35011016002537954752008-07-08T09:39:00.002-04:002008-07-08T09:43:31.466-04:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Ben Olsen Has Another Surgery</span><br /><br />If it seems too good to be true, it usually is. Ben Olsen has had another ankle surgery to try and reduce the pain he experienced when training with United in the week leading up to his fifteen minute appearance against LA. While not expected to "end his season", it is another setback for Olsen following his career year in 2007.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-82409914470075701902008-07-08T09:18:00.003-04:002008-07-08T09:35:53.281-04:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >US Open Cup Quarterfinals - DC United vs Chicago Fire</span><br /><br />DC United welcome longtime playoff nemesis, Chicago, to suburban Maryland for a Round of Eight game in the US Open Cup. The longer United stay in the tournament, the more important it becomes in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">relation</span> to the rest of the season. United catches a break in that they haven't played a league game in nine days and several of the top players should be well rested. I expect <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Gallardo</span>, Moreno, Emilio, Fred, Gonzales, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Namoff</span> (my top six players) to all play at least sixty minutes. In fact, the starting lineup may well be the same one that finished the first half against LA, with Burch in for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Quaranta</span>.<br /><br />United have never beaten Chicago in an elimination game. The rivalry extends back from the 1998 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">MLS</span> Cup which Chicago won to the 2-1 comeback win for United in extra time while down a man in Chicago. The recent addition of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Cuauhtemoc</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Blanco</span> to the Fire has only enhanced the rivalry in that he is the object of much of the hatred/respect that DC United supporters throw Chicago's way.<br /><br />I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Gallardo</span>, Fred, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Simms</span>, Burch, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Namoff</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Peralta</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">McTavish</span>, Martinez, and Wells. Look for Kirk, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Dyachenko</span>, Carroll the Younger, and Doe to get time off the bench.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />DC United 1:1 Chicago Fire<br />United advances on penalty kicks 5:4JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-70467150046106648182008-07-02T16:02:00.001-04:002008-07-03T16:09:09.816-04:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Oh, Fred, Who Art Thou?</span><br /><br />The DCenters posted an excellent <a href="http://dcunitedblog.blogspot.com/2008/07/what-we-talk-about-when-we-talk-about.html">article</a> on the value of Gallardo this season. While I agree with most of his reasoning (I am solidly in the Pro-Gallardo camp), I think the more interesting debate is concerning Fred. I thought Fred was dangerous in the game against LA on Sunday, DCUMD gave him bottom marks (rail behind the bar), Goff gave him a 6, BLCKDGRD disagreed with Goff's rating saying he is indecisive and making terrible passes, and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>D placed him in the Bad section and has vowed to call him F-r-e-* until he finishes something.<br /><br />So, who is this Fred, and why all the disagreement?<br /><br />Fred, a Brazilian, joined a DC United team last season that was primed for an MLS Cup run. He was starting by the end of the first month and has been a mainstay in the starting lineup since then. He has been relatively durable, appearing in twenty-six of thirty games last season and twelve of fifteen this season. He can play either side of the midfield and the center. He is <strike>left</strike> right footed and makes excellent cut back runs to the center which really put the defense on their heels. He is a deft dribbler in tight spaces and doesn't go down easily. Memories of his 2007 season are positive. He finished with seven goals and eight assists and DC United won the Supporter's Shield. So, he is associated with excellent play and winning results.<br /><br />In 2008, Fred's statistics are down from last season's pace, but so are United as a whole. He has created numerous chances and this has resulted in a large portion of his criticism. Is it enough to generate chances for yourself and others if those chances don't result in goals? My guess is that the Pro-Fred crowd would say yes, it is enough to be dangerous and keep the defense on their toes. The Anti-Fred crowd would say no, finish something. Fred seems to be one of the most talented players on the team, so much is expected from him. If Fred goes a half, a game, a few games without tangible results, the scrutiny is ratcheted up. Then, each missed pass, each unpulled trigger in the box, each ball skied over the goal, is magnified, dissected, and regurgitated. If Fred was less talented or less likable, I think his poor play would be rationalized, much like Josh Gros was. Gros was a hard worker who was limited offensively. If Gros produced a total of six goals and assists for the year, or one a month, the masses would have been happy. Not so with Fred, who last season averaged 2.5 goals/assists a month and is now on a 1.3 goals/assists a month pace.<br /><br />So which side are you on? Happy with Fred, or left needing more?JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-34935018627871311682008-07-02T10:14:00.003-04:002008-07-02T10:23:30.928-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">US Open Cup Round of 16 - DC United 2:0 Rochester Rhinos</span></span><br /><br />I only caught the second half on the radio, and some of that was garbled due to technical issues, but DC United was able to pull out a victory while resting several starters. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Gallardo</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Peralta</span>, and Moreno didn't play at all, and Emilio, Fred, Martinez, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Simms</span> played a half. The game was tied 0-0 until two late, deflected free kicks by Marc Burch both found the net. The one I've seen on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dd3z04FxUHM"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">youtube</span></a> didn't look all that great, but the other was better from what I've read. United moves on to play Chicago next Tuesday at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">SoccerPlex</span>. I'm going to try to make it out there for this one. And, if Tony <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Limarzi</span> is to be believed (and I always believe him), Fred blew another wide open net at the beginning of the second half.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-75566420292226489672008-06-30T10:45:00.003-04:002008-06-30T11:39:49.090-04:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Halfway Point</span><br /><br />After the win over LA, DC United has officially reached the halfway point in the regular season schedule. This is the traditional point in baseball to double your stats and see where you are. I figure, if it's good enough for baseball...<br /><br />Projected 2008 Full Season Stats (2007) Difference<br /><br />Goals<br />Emilio 20 (20) 0<br />Moreno 12 (7) +5<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Gallardo</span> 8 (N/A)<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Quaranta</span> 4 (N/A)<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Simms</span> 4 (0) +4<br />Fred 2 (7) -5<br />Martinez 2 (N/A)<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Namoff</span> 2 (0) +2<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Peralta</span> 2 (N/A)<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Dyachenko</span> 1 (1) 0<br />Burch 0 (1) -1<br />Olsen 0 (7) -7<br /><br />Assists<br /><br />Moreno 14 (6) +8<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">McTavish</span> 8 (0) +8<br />Fred 6 (8) -2<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Gallardo</span> 6 (N/A)<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Quaranta</span> 6 (N/A)<br />Burch 4 (3) +1<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Dyachanko</span> 4 (0) +4<br />Emilio 4 (1) +3<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Simms</span> 4 (3) +1<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Cordeiro</span> 2 (N/A)<br />Martinez 2 (N/A)<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Niell</span> 1* (N/A)<br />Olsen 0 (7) -7<br /><br />* No longer with team<br /><br />United also would be at 44 points which would place them solidly in the playoffs. If they were to improve their second half record to 11-0-4 (W-D-L) they would net 33 points and would be at 55, exactly the pace for an average Supporter's Shield. So that's the target. Eleven wins and 33 more points.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-8229361343885215032008-06-29T15:40:00.005-04:002008-06-29T16:30:57.852-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Game 16 - DC United 4:1 Los Angeles Galaxy</span><br /><br />DC United are back. This was evident in many ways, but let's concentrate on three.<br /><br />1. The offensive creativity which has defined the United attack was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">varied</span> and potent. The Galaxy defenders, not world beaters on their best day, were disorganized and caught out all afternoon. United were able to attack from the sidelines, up the middle, and on set pieces. United played beautiful long balls, deft short passes, and creative dribbling. It was beautiful to watch.<br /><br />2. While still a work in progress, it is impossible to deny that the United defense has allowed a total of four goals in the last four games, all wins. Martinez, still the favorite for team MVP, has been excellent and steady, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Peralta</span> is working well in the center with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">McTavish</span>, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Namoff</span> continues to have his best season.<br /><br />3. Ben Olsen. When he walked up to the fourth official and checked into the game, the roar was partly for him, partly surprise, and partly a c<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">heer</span> for the Tradition he represents. While he may not be the Olsen of last year, having him on the field is a great sign and I for one am thrilled he is able to play.<br /><br />Grades:<br /><br />Forwards (Moreno and Emilio) <span style="color:#ff0000;">A</span><br /><br />Emilio played his best game of the year. He netted two and could have had two or three more. Moreno played a fine first half as almost a withdrawn forward. I really like him in that position and of course he scored on his chance from the spot. Excellent game from these two.<br /><br />Midfielders (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Gallaardo</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Simms</span>, Fred, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Quaranta</span>) <span style="color:#ff0000;">A-</span><br /><br />Possibly the best game of the year from this group. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Simms</span> was steady. Fred was dangerous. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Quaranta</span>, while he was on, was very good running down long balls and making well struck crosses. But, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Gallardo</span> was the class of the group. From beginning to end, he was the best player on the field. Just a masterful game from him, and his goal could win goal of the week.<br /><br />Defenders (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Namoff</span>, Martinez, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">McTavish</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Peralta</span>, and Wells) <span style="color:#ff0000;">B+</span><br /><br />The lone goal was not something to put on a training tape, but the rest of the game someone always stepped up to make the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">crucial</span> play. All five made key saves on dangerous plays.<br /><br />Substitutes (Burch, Olsen, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Dyachenko</span>) <span style="color:#ff0000;">A</span><br /><br />Burch made an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">immediate</span> impact with his cross to Emilio. He also had a massive strike on a free kick which struck the crossbar from around 25 yards away. Olsen was good at maintaining <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">possession</span> on the right side and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Dyacheno</span> nearly had a goal of his own on two occasions.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-68799727891652456312008-06-27T10:48:00.004-04:002008-06-29T15:40:48.426-04:00<span style="COLOR: rgb(255,0,0);font-size:130%;" >Preview of Game 16 - DC United vs Los Angeles Galaxy</span><br /><br />DC United, 6-1-7 (W-D-L), welcome the LA Galaxy, to RFK for their one visit of the season. Along with the Galaxy come Landon Donovan and David Beckham. Should be a large crowd, maybe approaching 40,000. This game also matches up the two highest scoring offenses (DC 24, LA 31) and the two highest yielding defenses (DC 25, LA 24). Let the fireworks ensue. United are in the midst of a five game unbeaten streak (4-1-0) including their 3-1 win over San Jose last Saturday. DC are playing well at home with a 5-0-2 record and a +9 goal differential. United, 1.36 PPG, are currently tied for 4th in the Eastern Conference, eight points behind New England, 1.80 PPG, with a game in hand. United are also in a five way tie for 5th place in the Supporter's Shield race also led by New England.<br /><br />Los Angeles, like DC United, are undefeated in June (2-1-0). Over all they are 6-3-4 and have been playing exciting soccer. Similar to recent years, the offense is successful and the defense is mediocre to awful. The poor defensive play can be attributed to salary cap decisions which have allocated large amounts to money to a few offensive players. This has left very little money with which to field a proficient unit along the back line. So they try to pummel you to death. Los Angeles have scored three or more goals six times in thirteen games. Surprisingly they have also been shutout three times. Los Angeles, 1.62 PPG, lead the Western Conference by two points over Real Salt Lake and Houston with two and one game in hands respectively. Los Angeles trails New England bby six points in the Supporter's Shield race.<br /><br />United will be without Domenic Mediate (concussion), Ben Olsen (ankle) and Francis Doe (visa issues) this weekend. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, Gallardo, Quaranta, Simms, Namoff, McTavish, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells. Burch, Dyachenko, Corderio, and Stratford might see time off the bench.<br /><br />As has been mentioned <a href="http://poplarpoint.blogspot.com/2008/05/game-7-dc-united-02-chicago-fire-i-am.html">here</a> and on other <a href="http://dcunitedblog.blogspot.com/2008/06/tidbits.html">blogs</a>, Burch's lack of progress is more than a bit disappointing. Simply put, he has no right foot. It's not an Etcheverry situation where his left is so dominant he tries to use it at every opportunity. Burch simply refuses to use his right foot even when it seems like it is the only option. Awkward stabs at the ball which result in careless turnovers are no deterrent. I've never seen anything like it, and I can't understand how he could have progressed this far without a coach pulling him aside and telling him it is unacceptable. Could you imagine an NBA player never dribbling with his opposite hand? If it continues, I can't see him in the starting lineup at any position.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />DC United 3:2 Los Angeles GalaxyJCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-23560236475543983092008-06-27T10:41:00.002-04:002008-06-27T10:44:14.186-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Frank O'Neil heads back to Ireland</span></span><br /><br />Irish forward Frank O'Neil has been cut from DC United's roster and will head back to the Emerald Isle to...what's that? Not Irish? Argentinian? With a last name like O'Neil? Franco Niell? Oh. Never mind.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-8567954275762052772008-06-23T09:36:00.003-04:002008-06-23T10:02:14.120-04:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Game 15 - DC United 3:1 San Jose Earthquakes</span><br /><br />Maybe there won't be a shutout this season. Is that such a bad thing? Personally, I'd rather win 3-1 than have a bunch of 0-0 ties. And a shutout doesn't mean that you have great defense. It can mean you play like a bunch of babies and put nine men behind the ball. Am I rationalizing? Maybe. But I do think the shutout statistic is vastly overrated. So, other than allowing a goal, what else happened?<br /><br />The Good:<br /><ul><li>Martinez and Namoff continue to make runs up field and look good doing it.</li><li>Emilio's scoring streak reaches five games</li><li>The back line was solid</li></ul>The Bad:<br /><ul><li>Distribution from defenders to midfield and midfield to forwards was poor for most of the night</li><li>Fred, Burch, McTavish, Simms, and Moreno all have substandard games</li><li>Wells was shaky yet again</li></ul>Grades:<br /><br />Forwards (Moreno and Emilio) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">B</span><br /><br />Emilio was extremely active. He made nice runs and was dangerous in the box. San Jose needed to know where he was at all times. In addition to the very nice goal, he also hit the post off of a nice combination with Gallardo. Moreno was not bad, but he didn't seem to influence the game very much.<br /><br />Midfielders (Gallardo, Fred, Simms, and Burch) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">C+</span><br /><br />Simms' touch seemed to fail him most of the match. There were numerous passes which had the wrong weight and never made it to the intended recipient. He had an excellent strike which deflected into the net (he must have worked on those long shots over the winter) but he cancelled it out with his bad passing. Fred was occasionally brilliant, but often lousy. He was pulled early and deserved it. Burch has no right foot. San Jose realized this and made him use it. He couldn't and was completely inneffective. Gallardo was very influential. I watched him with binoculars for about ten minutes during the second half and this is clearly his team. He was directing players constantly shouting encouragement and criticism at what seemed to be appropriate times. He decided who took free kicks and corners and demanded the ball when he was open. His passes at times seem ambitious, but I think the team is beginning to understand how he sees the field and is starting to anticipate his passes and are starting to run on to them at the right time.<br /><br />Defenders (Peralta, Gonzalez, Namoff, McTavish, and Wells) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">B+</span><br /><br />If I was going order the players from one to ten on how likely they were to score a goal, it would have been as follows: Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Fred, Peralta, Burch, Simms, Namoff, McTavish, and Martinez. Numbers one, seven and ten scored. The Martinez goal was gorgeous and shocking. He has been spectacular the last two months. So far, he is the player of the year im my book. Wells keeps this group from an A. He was directly responsible for the goal, although none of it happens if Corderio doesn't get blown by on the sideline immediately preceding it. McTavish makes the spectacular save but doesn't make the simple passes. Peralta and Namoff were excellent in defense.<br /><br />Substitutes (Corderio, Mediate, and Dyachenko) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">B-</span><br /><br />I give partial blame on the goal to Corderio. I honestly didn't notice Mediate or Dyachenko much other than the red card which Mediate was part of.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-88338429246606302492008-06-20T15:29:00.004-04:002008-06-20T16:25:43.260-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Preview of Game 15 - DC United vs San Jose Earthquakes</span></span><br /><br />DC United, 5-1-7 (W-D-L), welcome expansion franchise San Jose to RFK stadium for the first of two meetings this season. United have rebounded nicely from a terrible start in which they only netted six points from the first nine games. Since then, United claimed ten of a possible twelve points. United have scored at least two goals in each of their last four games, including four last week against NYRB. DC are in the middle of a stretch of games where they play at home from June 14th thru August 10th, a total of nine games. United are 4-0-2 at home with a +7 GAA. United (1.23 PPG) are in 5th place in the Eastern Conference, eleven points behind New England (1.93 PPG) with a game in hand. DC are 9th in the Supporter's Shield race also led by New England.<br /><br />San Jose Earthquakes are playing as you would expect an expansion team to play. They give up a lot of goals and don't score very many. Despite being shut out the last two games, San Jose have pulled four points out of their last three games going 1-1-1 including a 2-0 win at Columbus. San Jose are 2-1-4 on the road with a -4 goal differential. San Jose only average 0.67 goals per game on the road. San Jose (0.92 PPG) are in last place in the Western Conference, nine points behind Los Angeles (1.67 PPG). They are also last in the Supporter's Shield race, sixteen points behind New England.<br /><br />If DC United are going to break through and get their first shut out, this is the game. San Jose are a fairly defenseless team. United need to attack from the start and keep the foot on the gas. With Gallardo and Namoff back from red card vacation but with Quaranta leaving for a yellow card vacation, I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Simms, Fred, Burch, Namoff, McTavish, Peralta, Gonzalez, and Wells. Dyachenko, Kirk, and Stratford could see time as substitutes.<br /><br />I'm one game late, but let's look at where United was after the second fifth of the season. United had thirteen points after twelve games for an average of 1.08 points per game. That is well off the pace of 1.83 necessary to contend for the Supporter's Shield. United will need to go 12-3-2 in the remaining seventeen games to hit the fifty-five point threshold. The margin for error is very slim. To make the playoffs, DC needs to get to around forty points. Eight wins in the final seventeen games would get them there.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />DC United 3:0 San Jose EarthquakesJCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-78677160296201056682008-06-05T10:26:00.004-04:002008-06-05T10:36:28.899-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Game 12 - DC United vs Houston Dynamo</span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Postponed due to lack of flood insurance</span><br /><br />As I exited Lake RFK last night, I was left with a few impressions:<br /><ul><li>Since I no longer had my game ticket (who keeps a soccer ticket in case of a rain out?) how am I going to get into the game when it is rescheduled? Anyone know?<br /></li><li>This was a bad game to bring my 10 month old to</li><li>Gallardo appears to be a mudder. He looked great</li><li>Houston couldn't wait to leave the field when the referee suspended the game</li><li>Loved the fact that you could see the outline of the old baseball diamond in the pattern of the puddles. Shows how well the drainage system works. And I guess there won't be a crown on the field at RFK anymore. Hopefully the new stadium comes soon. I think the game would have been playable longer and started again if the field had a crown.</li></ul>So, looks like late summer for the replay of this game. Do they start from the beginning or pick up in the 16th minute? What happens if someone gets cut or traded who was on the field? Does replacing them count as a sub? When is an MLS game official? Halftime? I need answers people!JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-3194095736691107412008-06-04T15:35:00.003-04:002008-06-04T16:09:11.712-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Preview of Game 12 - DC United vs Houston Dynamo</span><br /><br />DC United welcome the two time defending <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">MLS</span> Cup winners to Washington, DC. Currently (4 PM) it is raining pretty hard in DC so conditions could be sloppy at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">RFK</span>. United are coming off of a 2-2 tie at New England which felt like a loss. However, the offensive production was a big step up. Emilio, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Gallardo</span>, Fred, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Simms</span> and Moreno all appeared to be on the same page in the first half and only several spectacular saves kept United from posting four or five goals. United are 3-0-2 (W-D-L) at home this season with a +4 goal differential. United, 3-1-7, is currently in last place in the Eastern Conference, trailing New England, 6-2-3, by ten points. New England also leads the Supporter's Shield race.<br /><br />Houston Dynamo are back on track after a very slow start to the season and return to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">RFK</span> Stadium where they clinched the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">MLS</span> Cup last fall. Dynamo won three games in May with two ties and only one loss. Houston have not played well on the road with a 1-3-3 record and a -4 goal differential. Houston, 3-5-3, are tied second place in the Western Conference, one point behind Colorado who have a game in hand. Houston trails New England by six points in the Supporter's Shield race.<br /><br />United remains relatively healthy after eleven league games and four tournament games. Olsen remains unavailable but every other player should be ready to go. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Gallardo</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Simms</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Quaranta</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Namoff</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Peralta</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">McTavish</span>, Martinez, and Wells. Burch, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Dyachenko</span>, and maybe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Stratford</span> come off the bench.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />DC United 1:0 Houston DynamoJCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-41074670455296998952008-05-29T11:26:00.002-04:002008-05-29T16:11:33.705-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Preview of Game 11 - DC United at New England Revolution</span></span><br /><br />DC United, 3-0-7 (W-D-L), travel north to Massachusetts to take on New England in a nationally televised match up on ESPN2. DC United are coming off of a desperately needed come from behind victory at home against Toronto <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">FC</span>. Emilio ended his seven game scoreless streak, Fred looked to be at full strength, and United scored on a set piece. All things that could lead to a change in fortunes. As always, time will tell. United have been horrendous on the road this season losing all five games and only scoring one goal while surrendering twelve. United are currently ten points behind Eastern Conference leading Chicago, Columbus, and New England. Those three also lead the Supporter's Shield race.<br /><br />New England, (6-1-3), have been on a three game winning streak allowing only a single goal while scoring five. New England is a respectable 2-0-2 at home with a +1 goal differential. New England are tied for the lead in the Eastern Conference and the Supporter's Shield race with Chicago and Columbus.<br /><br />Now is the time to show how far they have come. The comeback victory will not mean much if they get shutout on the road. Last place teams don't need road victories, playoff teams do. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Gallardo</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Quaranta</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Simms</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Namoff</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">McTavish</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Peralta</span>, Martinez, and Wells. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Niell</span> was left off of the senior roster again and looks like he will be released before the July 1 roster date. Everyone on the roster on July 1 has their contracts guaranteed for the season.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />DC United 2:2 New England RevolutionJCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com192tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-1725449084761373042008-05-28T11:05:00.004-04:002008-05-28T11:31:57.484-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Game 10 - DC United 3:2 Toronto <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">FC</span></span></span><br /><br />Apologies for the lack of posts during the last two weeks. Personal travel and a wedding anniversary combined in a way which prevented me from watching any of the games live or on same-day-tape. Once I was able to watch them several days later, the posts I would have written seemed dated since there was a game either that night of the next day. <br /><br />So where is DC United? One third of the way through the season and United is sitting on nine points. They are way off pace for making the playoffs and seem to be out of both the Supporter's Shield race and the Easter Conference title. The offense is playing below expectations, not generating the chances which were anticipated. The defense is actually playing better than last year. The keeper has been a bit spotty, but the number of goals allowed is exactly the same as it was last season through ten games. The fact that there hasn't been a shutout skews the numbers a bit. So what is the biggest difference between this year and last? The inability to earn a tie on the road. If United was standing on a 3-3-4 (W-D-L) record, there would be no panic, and large amounts of optimism. However, the three extra losses make for a depressed locker room. The most recent game is cause for hope, but the needed breakthrough on the road better come soon.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-64806823834708732712008-05-09T11:08:00.005-04:002008-05-28T12:19:39.683-04:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Game 7 - DC United 0:2 Chicago Fire</span><br /><br />I am now worried about making the playoffs. My worries can by put into to two main categories.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Personnel</span>:<br /><br />It look like the bench is no stronger this season than it has been in the past few years. With <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Gallardo</span> and Fred out, the midfield was severely out classed by the Chicago Fire. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Dyachenko</span> is not creative enough and is prone to brain cramps where he holds the ball too long and gets it taken away from him. Burch, once again, proved he isn't a midfielder. In fact the whole DC United offense last night seemed to consist of passing the ball around in the midfield until someone kicked it directly to a Fire defender. Directly to them. And I have a question. If one of your forwards is the size of a small point guard and the man marking him is the size of a power forward, does it make sense to continuously play the ball in eight feet off the ground? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Niell</span> is pint sized, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Dyachenko</span>. Stop sending head balls to him.<br /><br />Tactics:<br /><br />Game after game, United seems unable to push forward with numbers. The slow build allows the opposition to father forces behind the ball and mount a defense which requires <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">tremendous</span> ball skills to penetrate. DC United lacks the requisite ball skills to do this, so what happens is any pass which isn't played into space or to Moreno is fumbled and turned over. Seven games, same results. When United scores it is in long ball passes or when the defense makes a mistake. I think it is time to go to a counter attack offense. Back to the 4-4-2 lineup and have Fred, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Gallardo</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Quaranta</span>, and Emilio make runs into the box when <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">possession</span> changes. Five times DC has given up the first goal, all losses and four of them shutouts. They simply can't afford to give up the first goal.<br /><br />Grades:<br /><br />Forwards (Emilio and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Niell</span>) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">C-</span><br /><br />Lack of imagination only mitigated by one or two quick decisions which resulted in shots on goal. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Niell</span> was directly and solely responsible for the second goal after a reckless giveaway at midfield.<br /><br />Midfielders (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Simms</span>, Burch, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Dyachenko</span>, Moreno, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Quaranta</span>) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">D</span><br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Simms</span> was his normal, steady self. Moreno was also effective in the central midfield. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Quaranta</span> looked tired and uninterested. Burch proved once again that he has no right foot by failing to make simple passes with his right in favor of trying to make awkward stabs with his left. One time he sent the ball out of bounds on the far sideline because he tried to switch fields with an outside of the foot cross which he toed and missed his target by twenty yards. Even <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Prideaux</span> was able to stay in front of him because he went to the end line every time he got close to the box.<br /><br />Defenders (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Namoff</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Peralta</span>, Martinez, and Wells) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">B+</span><br /><br />Best game of the year from Wells. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Namoff</span> was the best player on the field for United. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Peralta</span> was fine except for his strange inability to control headers. Martinez was very solid and made several good runs with the ball.<br /><br />Substitutes (Doe, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Stratford</span>, and Kirk) <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">C</span><br /><br />All were ineffective. Kirk only played about a minute.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-57557548109860580722008-05-08T10:01:00.004-04:002008-05-09T11:42:15.240-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Preview of Game 7 - DC United vs Chicago Fire</span><br /><br />DC United, 2-0-4 (W-D-L), welcome the team which knocked them out of the 2007 playoffs to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RFK</span> stadium for an ESPN2 national television <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">matchup</span>. DC United have been dreadful on the road this season, but they have played well at home. United, six points, is 2-0-1 at home this season with a +5 goal differential. DC United is currently in last place in the Eastern Conference, trailing Columbus by nine points. Columbus also leads the Supporter's Shield race with DC United in tenth.<br /><br />Chicago are coming off of an impressive 3-0 whitewashing of New England on the road. Chicago have been excellent away from home this season with two wins and a tie in three games and a +4 goal differential. Chicago, thirteen points, are in second place in the Eastern Conference trailing Columbus by two points. They are also in second place in the Supporter's Shield race.<br /><br />This is a game which could determine the shape of the Eastern Conference. If Chicago wins, they put a lot of distance between them and United, the preseason favorite. If United wins, they stay within arms reach of the conference leaders with the bulk of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">MLS</span> schedule remaining. It looks as though <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">McTavish</span> and Olsen are unavailable. I expect the starting lineup to be Moreno, Emilio, Fred, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gallardo</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Simms</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Quaranta</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Dyachenko</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Namoff</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Peralta</span>, Martinez, and Wells in a 3-5-2 formation.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />DC United 1:2 ChicagoJCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-46774967274469879412008-05-06T12:24:00.003-04:002008-05-06T12:31:06.788-04:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzqT2iGuqmiv1UbrpDO4IGucPP1LkU19YzkRnXYo_fTQTyiuLWRDm319zGjdHjXNgML7EBSEZ8BJuRg7OePbmOmZU40WvbHJuqxTvQ-U0DjOOHFeS_OaQo86bt9CpnjJ1oLs7/s1600-h/VWDC.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197301934850565586" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzqT2iGuqmiv1UbrpDO4IGucPP1LkU19YzkRnXYo_fTQTyiuLWRDm319zGjdHjXNgML7EBSEZ8BJuRg7OePbmOmZU40WvbHJuqxTvQ-U0DjOOHFeS_OaQo86bt9CpnjJ1oLs7/s320/VWDC.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ich</span> Bin <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Ein</span> Berliner</span><br /><div> </div><div>DC United has issued a <a href="http://dcunited.mlsnet.com/news/team_news.jsp?ymd=20080506&content_id=155406&vkey=pr_dcu&fext=.jsp&team=t103">press release</a> announcing the partnership with Volkswagen and photos of what the new uniforms will look like. I think I can get used to it. Not overly large, matches the uniform well and the circle logo even evokes a soccer ball a bit. All in all, very palatable. </div>JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-37652637713127913092008-05-05T09:08:00.003-04:002008-05-05T09:32:05.366-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Game 6 - DC United 0:2 Colorado Rapids</span><br /><br />DC United were shut out for the third consecutive time on the road to begin the 2008 season. From watching the game, I didn't see anything that was definitively different from what they try to do at home. Fred was missing, but he cannot be the difference between four goals and a shutout. Moreno didn't start, but he played in the second half and never seemed to get it going. Colorado are a decent team, but United now have a -8 goal differential on the road in only three games.<br /><br />I thought the defense played well and the two goals were more a result of good play by the Rapids. The first goal was vintage Christian Gomez. Just an excellent pass and an equally impressive one timer. The second goal was a very nice quick cross and header by Erpen. It was like old home week with the DC United Alumni Association: Colorado Chapter getting a bit of revenge. Peralta had a much better game in central defense. Zach Wells was not at fault on either goal. Both were rocket shots that I wouldn't expect any goalie to save.<br /><br />I'm not sure if it is panic time yet, but in my 2008 season preview I crunched a few numbers and determined that DC United needed to average eleven points for every six games to have a shot at the Supporters Shield and eight points to make the playoffs. United stand on six points. They are now 20% of the way through the MLS schedule. I'm not in panic mode yet. However, after game twelve, United had better have at least eighteen points.<br /><br />Grades<br /><br />Forwards (Neill and Emilio) <span style="color:#ff0000;">C-</span><br /><br />Another quiet game from the forwards. Both were subbed out in the second half and deservedly so.<br /><br />Midfielders (Gallardo, Simms, Burch, Quaranta, and Dyachenko) <span style="color:#ff0000;">B-</span><br /><br />I liked Dyachenko this game. He has some ball skills which can be developed. Simms was fine and Gallardo was the best player on the field for United. Burch is still out of his depth in the midfield. An off game from Quaranta.<br /><br />Defenders (Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells) <span style="color:#ff0000;">B+</span><br /><br />Solid game from this group. No complaints. I liked the runs forward from Martinez and Namoff. <br /><br />Substitutes (Moreno, Doe, and Kirk) <span style="color:#ff0000;">C+</span><br /><br />Doe and Kirk were unable to create any real chances. Moreno was unable to put a stamp on the game with a full half of work.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-71373676100289901942008-05-02T15:15:00.003-04:002008-05-02T15:26:54.275-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Olsen's Bad Wheel</span><br /><br />According to <a href="http://blog.washingtonpost.com/soccerinsider/">Goff</a>, DC United midfielder and my favorite player, Ben Olsen's career is in some danger. This is really sad news. In the back of my mind, I thought this was a possibility but I refused to really acknowledge it. Goff's report puts it in black and white. I wish Benny the best and won't be trading in my #14 jersey any time soon. However, this has real <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">personnel</span> ramifications for DC United this season. Last season Olsen was moved out to the wing because there wasn't anyone else to play there. Now the options are <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Quaranta</span> who was cut recently, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">McTavish</span> and Burch who are defenders, and Young Player To Be Named Later (Kirk, Jeff Carroll, Stratford). Maybe there will be a signing this summer to replace him, otherwise that could be a big hole to fill.JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-55753557287376166842008-05-02T14:46:00.003-04:002008-05-02T15:27:11.714-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Preview of Game 6 - DC United at Colorado Rapids</span><br /><br />DC United travels to Rocky Mountains for a mile high date with the Colorado Rapids. DC United has been quite the Jekyll and Hyde team this season playing very well at home and downright dreadful on the road. United is 0-0-2 (W-D-L) on the road with a -6 goal differential (zero goals scored). United, 2-0-3, is in last place in the Eastern Conference, six points behind Columbus. DC is tied for ninth in the Supporter's Shield race also led by Columbus.<br /><br />Colorado Rapids are in the midst of a two game losing streak, netting a single goal in the 180 minutes. They are an average team so far with a win and a loss at home in their two games. The Rapids have a +2 goal differential. Colorado, 2-0-3, trails Western Conference leading FC Dallas by two points and Supporter's Shield leading Columbus by six points.<br /><br />So the big question entering this game is whether DC United can shake their road funk and pull out at least a point. After this game, twenty percent of the season will be over. If United wins, they will be on pace for a 45 point season, a tie puts them on a 35 point pace, and a loss puts them on a 30 point pace. Last season it took 40 points to make the playoffs. Not good numbers, but it is still early. McTavish appears to be out again this week and Fred is questionable but will make the trip. I expect the starting lineup to be Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Fred, Quaranta, Simms, Burch, Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells in a 4-4-2 formation. Subs should be Dyachenko, Niell, and Stratford.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />DC United 2:2 Colorado RapidsJCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29121452.post-69850200343607165732008-05-02T09:42:00.003-04:002008-05-02T10:00:09.375-04:00<span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">DC United Now Diesel Powered</span><br /><br />It has been revealed that DC United has signed an agreement with German auto manufacturer Volkswagen to be the company to place it's logo in the gigantic empty space on DC <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">United's</span> 2008 jerseys. We all knew this was coming. I'm of two minds about it. I don't like the idea of jersey advertising. It seems cheap and tacky. However, I realize that soccer doesn't have the same opportunities to sell advertising as the traditional American sports do. There are no TV timeouts, no stops in the action, no "we'll be back after this". So you have signs along the sidelines, you have logos next to the clock on TV, and you have jersey sponsors. The <a href="http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2008/04/28/daily54.html?jst=b_ln_hl">reported numbers</a> are $3.7 million a year. That is a big number, and it is more than I thought DC Untied would get. It dwarfs the current salary cap number. <br /><br />I will reserve final judgement until I see the design. I would imagine it would debut next Thursday on the ESPN national TV game. It has to be either a white or red logo on the black background and a black or red logo on the white background I would think. I am having a tough time picturing a circular logo on the jersey after the Adidas triple horizontal stripes. <br /><br />But as Robert C. Gallagher said, "Change is inevitable - except from a vending machine."JCMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15435416703547998781noreply@blogger.com0