Nick Rimando and Connor Casey highlight the Socceracademics.com MLS Team of Week.
Goalkeeper:
Nick Rimando, Real Salt Lake
Defenders:
Tony Beltran, Real Salt Lake
Cory Gibbs, Colorado Rapids
Eric Brunner, Columbus Crew
Jed Zayner, Columbus Crew
Midfielders:
Robbie Rogers, Columbus Crew
Peter Lowry, Chicago Fire
Ricardo Clark, Houston Dynamo
Landon Donovan, LA Galaxy
Strikers:
Connor Casey, Colorado Rapids
Robbie Findley, Real Salt Lake
Week 21 of the MLS campaign was highlighted by several quality goals and a few intense matchups that went down to the wire. There were also poor officiating decisions and a questionable ejection.
Game Recaps
FC Dallas 1, Houston Dynamo 0
FC Dallas opened the week with a Thursday night victory over the Dynamo. Jeff Cunningham continued his torrid pace, connecting for a goal in the 9th minute. Brad Davis was shown a red card for leaving the bench, even though he managed to restrain himself.
LA Galaxy 2, New England Revolution 1
The Revs staged a frantic comeback, but fell short to the streaking Galaxy. Landon Donovan connected on a wonder goal in the 21st minute. Jovan Kirvoski put the visitors ahead by two after a poor clearance by the Revs backline. Steve Ralston converted a penalty kick in the 83rd minute but the Galaxy held off additional pressure to win.
Columbus Crew 3, San Jose Earthquakes 0
The Crew struggled to create chances in the first half, but three quick goals but the game out of reach. Substitute Alejandro Moreno found the net first, followed by Robbie Rogers and Adam Moffat. The Quakes controlled the first half but quickly fell apart after surrendering the first goal.
Real Salt Lake 1, Seattle Sounders FC 0
Robbie Findley used his blazing pace to get behind a lackadaisical Sounder defense to score the only goal. The Sounders failed to create many chances against the stingy RSL defense, which silenced Fredy Montero. The Sounders should have been awarded penalty in the dying minutes of the match, when Will Johnson slapped a ball down in the area.
Colorado Rapids 4, Chivas USA 0
Connor Casey and Omar Cummings picked apart the weak Chivas USA defense, which featured Jonathan Bornstein in a center back role. Pablo Mastroeni scored a rocket in the first minute and Casey added three more. Shavar Thomas was shown a red card in the closing minutes of the first half.
Houston Dynamo 3, Chicago Fire 2
The Dynamo rebounded from a loss in the Texas derby with a win over the Fire. However, it did not come easy as the visitors scored two quick goals after half-time. Stuart Holden powerfully converted the game winning penalty kick to give the Western Conference leaders the win.
Player of the Week: Connor Casey, Colorado Rapids
Casey returned from injury to score a first half hat trick, giving his team a comfortable lead. While none of his goals were spectacular, he managed to put himself in a quality position and convert his chances.
Goalkeeper of the Week: Nick Rimando, Real Salt Lake
Rimando hit the pass on a dime that sprung Findley’s goal. He managed to turn away what few chances Seattle could muster and had a great read late in the match to ensure his team of three points.
Goal of the Week: Landon Donovan, LA Galaxy
Donovan put his team ahead in the 21st minute with a cracking first-touch left footed volley. The Fire’s Peter Lowry has to get honorable mention, with his sweet first-time side volley while running at full speed.
Save of the Week: Nick Rimando, Real Salt Lake
With his team nursing a 1-0 lead, Rimando snuffed out a chance late by coming off his line and calmly blocking the shot. He controlled the ball enough to scoop up the rebound and preserve the lead.
Assist of the Week: Robbie Rogers, Columbus Crew
Rogers unselfishly used his head to redirect a cross into the path of Moreno that led to the first goal for the Crew. He recognized he was not position to put the ball on frame while running at full speed.
Sub of the Week: Emmanuel Ekpo, Columbus Crew
Ekpo opened up the game for the Crew with his pace and quality distribution. His pinpoint cross to Rogers led to the first goal. He played both ways, contributing to the defensive effort as well.
Rookie of the Week: Omar Gonzalez, LA Galaxy
He did his part in helping his team to a 2-1 win over the Revs. The talented center back combined with his teammates to limit the Revs to only four shots on goal.
Best Coaching Performance: Robin Fraser, Real Salt Lake
Fraser stepped in for Jason Kreis, who was serving a one game suspension for being ejected, and led RSL to a critical win. With several job openings looming, Fraser is sure to get an interview somewhere.
Worst Coaching Performance: Preki, Chivas USA
Preki had to somehow patch together a backline riddled by suspensions and injures, but the Goats came out of the gate with no energy and showed a lack of discipline. After giving up a goal in the first minute, it was painfully obvious the game was destined to be a blowout.
Best Refereeing Performance: Alex Prus
Prus kept everything under control in Rapids-Chivas USA game, which is not always easy to do in a blowout and with Jesse Marsch on the field. He correctly sent off Thomas. His decision to give the PK was also correct, since the foul occurred outside but continued into the area.
Worst Refereeing Performance: Jeff Gontarek
The players in the Crew-Earthquake had no clue what was being called a foul and what was not. Gontarek was inconsistent with his calls and failed to apply advantage in two key situations for Columbus.
What are your thoughts on this past week? Was Lowry’s goal better than Donovan’s? Was the handball in the RSL-Sounder game a penalty or not? Comment below.
The US has never been able to field a true #10 playmaker. If one emerged, he would be able to quickly fill a gaping need that could push the national team to the next level. Options are limited at this point, which means one of the following players could come on to the scene for the 2014 qualification cycle.
1. Mikkel Diskerud, 18, Stabaek
Nicknamed “Mix”, the Norwegian born Diskerud is eligible to play for the US through his mother. He has declared his intentions to play for the US and will be a part of the U-20 World Cup team. He has mainly appeared as a substitute for his Norwegian side, but has scored three goals and will contribute to the upcoming Eupora League campaign.
2. Dilly Duka, 19, Rutgers
The New York Red Bull youth product has made a name for himself with his play for the U-20 team. He is a quick player with decent size who has a knack for scoring goals. His future is unclear at the moment. There has been rumored interest from Belgium, but he could also land with the Red Bulls.
3. Jarred Jeffery, 19, Club Brugge
He moved to Belgium when he was 17. He is yet to make an appearance for the first team, but is valued by the club as a youngster with a bright future. There were rumors linking him to a loan, but nothing has materialized.
4. Charles Renken, US U-17
Injuries have set him back, but he is capable of breaking down defenses with his technical ability. US U-17 coach Wilmer Cabrera will be hoping for a full recovery from Renken’s latest knee injury before the U-17 World Cup.
5. Eric Avila, 21, FC Dallas
He has emerged as a key reserve for FC Dallas this season and scored his first career goal in a recent 2-1 win. His combination of pace and technical ability causes problems for fatigued opponents. He signed a Generation Adidas contract after being selected in the 2nd round of the 2008 Super Draft.
Honorable Mention
Joseph Gyau, 16, US U-17
Sebastian Lletget, 16, West Ham Academy
Alex Nimo, 19, Real Salt Lake
Do you see a difference maker in this group? Can any of these players contribute to the 2014 team? Your opinions are welcome below.
Do you remember the hype? Of course you do. There has never been so much about an American soccer player. After signing with Benfica, many figured it was a matter of time before Adu would shine.
He was ordinary in the opening game of the Gold Cup against Grenada. He scored a goal that was a sitter. But other than a 30 yard chip over the goalkeeper that hit woodwork, there were no magical displays of his talent.
We witnessed the magic in 2003 at the U-17 World Cup when he scored four goals in group play. We saw it again at the 2007 U-20 World Cup when he put a hat-trick past Poland and outshined Alexandre Pato in a group play match.
But his potential as a player remains largely unseen. He has shown capable moments, but has a long way to go before regaining his status as a top prospect.
Where did it go wrong? It started with his move to Real Salt Lake. Outsiders of MLS did not understand why a promising prospect would be transferred. The trade, coupled with the on-again off-again relationship with Peter Nowak, built a reputation as a potential team cancer. That caused many European clubs to stop evaluating him.
But he made the move to Europe, signing with Benfica. The manager that brought him in was fired shortly after. The new coaching staff did not rate him highly and he was shipped to AS Monaco on loan the next season.
It was more of the same at his new club. He developed the reputation of a defensive liability. There were also reports that he was not working hard in training. As a result, he only appeared in a few matches.
It is obvious that Adu is frustrated. He needs to find stability. He is only 20 and has already played for four clubs. It is easy to see why he has regressed as a player.
But there is still time. He will return to Benfica after the Gold Cup with a chance to start fresh with another new manager. If he goes back and earns playing time, then it will show he has the maturity to be successful as a professional.
What do you think of Adu’s career so far? Should he look to get out of Benfica and get a fresh start? Does he still have the magic? Share your thoughts below.
The left midfield position is occupied by Landon Donovan at the moment. But with DaMarcus Beasley diminishing, a door could open for one of these players to make the World Cup squad in a reserve capacity. Here are the top five left midfield prospects for the USMNT:
1. Robbie Rogers, 22, Columbus Crew
He showed off his skills in the Grenada game, where he had two assists and a goal. He is very fast and has the technical ability to get off a nice cross, but he needs to get more consistent.
2. Brek Shea, 19, FC Dallas
He is a man child. He has good speed for his size and can play anywhere on the left side of the field. He has great technical speed and creates chances with his vision. A good performance at the U-20 World Cup could land him a contract with a big European side.
3. Jorge Flores, 20, Chivas USA
He got off to a blistering start after being discovered by a reality show. He has slowed down but has still shown promise. He can also play in the back. He is also expected to make the U-20 World Cup roster.
4. Sal Zizzo, 22, Hannover 96
Don’t forget about him. He is still young enough to make an impact. He put his name on the radar after an impressive U-20 World Cup. He has been loaned to a 2nd Bundesliga side, where he should see more playing time.
5. Giuseppe Nazzani, 19, Bologna
He was a complete unknown until being called in for a recent U-20 camp. He is not a traditional winger, as he plays a holding role on the left side. It is not clear if he will make the U-20 World Cup roster, but he may be poised for a first team action with a Serie A side. That alone is worth keeping tabs on him.
Are you excited about this group? Do you see one of these players making the 2010 team? Do Shea or Rogers need to head to Europe? Comment below.
The defensive midfield position is perhaps the national team’s strength, where it has the best players and the most depth. But top teams in the world have a reputation of producing quality defensive midfielders and the US is on the verge of joining their ranks. Here the top five defensive midfield prospects:
1. Sam Cronin, 22, Toronto FC
He may soon be following in Maurice Edu’s footsteps by getting a regular spot with the USMNT and a transfer to Europe. He has been instrumental to TFC’s success this season and was awarded with a spot on the Gold Cup roster.
2. Dax McCarty, 22, FC Dallas
He is beginning to live-up to his promise as a 2006 1st round SuperDraft pick. He has become a regular starter this season. He can play any spot in the midfield, but is best in a holding role. His passing and set-pieces have improved, which has added to his game.
3. Chance Myers, 22, Kansas City Wizards
He has been sidelined from injuries, so many have forgot the great start he had to his rookie season. But the 2008 first overall draft choice could return for the second part of this season, where he will look to get his promising career back on track.
4. Bryan Arguez, 20, Hertha Berlin
He has the raw athletic ability to be a very good player. He was signed by Hertha, but questions linger about his commitment level and work ethic. He was also kicked out of a U-20 camp, further fueling the speculation. Hopefully he can recover from these issues.
5. Brandon McDonald, 23, San Jose Earthquakes
He is another athletic, versatile player who can play in the midfield as well as in the back. He made the switch to the Earthquakes after playing for the Galaxy during his rookie season. He has appeared in three matches this season for the Quakes.
Is Cronin the best prospect in the defensive midfield spot? Do you think Myers can recover from injury? Can Arguez live up to his potential? Share your thoughts below.
The current right midfield is highlighted by Clint Dempsey, but there seems to be a drop off after him. As a result, these right wingers could have a chance to be a part of the next cycle and the top two have an outside shot at making the World Cup roster next year. Here are the top five prospects at the right midfield position:
1. Chris Pontius, 22, DC United
He is emerged as the top prospect after a blistering rookie campaign, where he has scored four goals and provided two assists. He has good speed and can stretch the field, but he needs to work on his crossing and ball distribution.
2. Brad Evans, 24, Seattle Sounders FC
He had a breakout year in 2008, where he helped the Crew win both the Supporters Shield and the MLS Cup. But he was deemed surplus and shipped to the Sounders in the expansion draft, where has become an everyday player. He was rewarded with his play with a call-up to the Gold Cup squad.
3. Gerson Mayen, 20, Chivas USA
He is a product of the Chivas USA youth system and has now been given a professional contract. He possess speed, quickness, and good technical ability. He began the season as a starter, but has since been coming on as a reserve. He will play in the upcoming U-20 World Cup.
4. Danny Cruz, 19, Houston Dynamo
He is in his first season in MLS after signing a Generation Adidas contract. He played for two seasons at UNLV prior to being drafted by the Dynamo. He is expected to be named to the U-20 World Cup squad.
5. Nick Zimmerman, 22, New York Redbulls
He has good size and decent speed. He is developing quickly and has become a regular for the Red Bulls, where he plays more pinched in than a traditional winger.
Honorable Mention
Gregory Garza, 17, Sporting Libson
What do you think about these prospects? Do you see anyone left off? How would you rate them? Share below.
There are several rumors floating around about American players either moving to Europe or changing to a different team on the continent. Anytime you change clubs, its risk vs. reward decision. I have analyzed the moves we have been hearing about.
Clint Dempsey to Everton, Spain, and a handful of other clubs
I wrote the other day that Dempsey to Everton makes sense. But there is an argument that he has improved at Fulham and will be getting regular minutes. But a move to Everton could net him a larger paycheck with a more consistent club. The only reason to leave England is to get Champions League experience.
Oguchi Onyewu to Ajax, Serie A, or France
Ajax is very serious about signing Onyewu, but Holland is not a top-flight league. Serie A would be better for his development in a World Cup year. He got his start in France, so a return would be logical. I am still holding out that a large club will realize how good he is.
Jozy Altidore to Fulham or Olympiakos
The move would be a loan and not a transfer. Olympiakos would be intriguing, but Villarreal will hold on to him for now. If Giuseppe Rossi leaves the club, then they are very thin up-front. Ultimately, Altidore will be loaned out but not until August.
Michael Bradley to Everton, Aston Villa, or Fulham
He should establish himself as a regular starter with Gladbach before looking to leave. However, Everton have been persistently interested in him. The Premiership would fit his style of play better, but it would not help with his questionable decision making regarding tackles.
Charlie Davies to a French or Netherlands club
He needs to climb up the European ladder slowly. A move to the Eredivisie for a couple of seasons would be smart. A club like Ajax or FC Twente would do wonders for his development.
Ricardo Clark to Rennes
He is in comfortable position with the Dynamo but needs to move abroad. He does not have the frame to play a holding midfielder in England, so a move to Ligue 1 would suit him better.
Heath Pearce to Randers, Austria, Bundesliga 2
He would be wise to return to Scandinavia. He needs regular time to get his career back on track. A move to Austria makes little sense. It will be interesting to see where he winds up.
Where do you think these players should go? Should Clark leave MLS for Europe? Should Bradley leave before locking down a starting spot? Where should Davies go? Share your thoughts below.
The US will open its Gold Cup title defense tomorrow, when it hosts Grenada in Seattle. The Americans, coming off a run to the Confederations Cup final, will field a ‘B’ squad for the tournament, at least in the group stage of the competition.
The starting goalkeeper for the US will likely be Troy Perkins, who plays for Valerenga in Norway. Luis Robles, who was on the Confederations Cup roster, and Jon Busch are the other options. Perkins is an educated guess, as Bob Bradley has not tipped who will be between the pipes.
The defense should be a little more straight forward, at least at the fullback positions. Steve Cherundolo and Heath Pearce will occupy those spots. The center defense is not as clear. Some combination of Jimmy Conrad, Chad Marshall, Clarence Goodson, and Michael Parkhurst will be on the pitch. Conrad and Goodson would make an interesting pair.
If Bradley sticks with a 4-4-2 and a pair of dual central midfielders, then Kyle Beckerman and Stuart Holden in the middle would make sense. Sacha Klejstan could also play since he has been added to the roster and Chivas USA does not have a game this weekend. Logan Pause would be another option.
Robbie Rogers is a pretty safe bet to start on the left wing, with Colin Clark being the other option. The right wing could be occupied by Santino Quaranta, Brad Davis, or Holden could slide out. Freddy Adu could be floated out wide as well, but Bradley could also slot him as a striker.
Charlie Davies will get the start up-top. He will be playing with a true target in either Brian Ching or Kenny Cooper. Davies could really benefit by getting on the end of flicks from his partner. Cooper and Davies would be intriguing.
Do you see Bradley sticking with the 4-4-2 that worked well in the Confederations Cup? Or will he mix up his tactics and use a 4-3-3? Who do you want to see start? Share below.
Left back has a been a traditional weakness for the USMNT. It has been a revolving door with nobody able to get a firm grip on the position. Could the next generation of left backs provide more stability? It is possible. Here are the top five left back prospects in the American player pool:
1. Anthony Wallace, 20, FC Dallas
He has good size to go along with blazing speed. He started four games in the 2007 U-20 World Cup. He has been getting consistent playing time with FC Dallas this season, which should speed up his development. He will be playing in the U-20 World Cup again later this year.
2. Tim Ward, 22, Chicago Fire
He is a great example of not giving up on a player too soon. He had a poor performance in the opening match of the U-20 World Cup and has bounced around since then. He is with his fourth MLS club, but has finally emerged as a solid prospect.
3. Matt Besler, 22, Kansas City Wizards
He has nailed down a starting position with the Wizards during his rookie campaign. He plays smart and reads the game well. He does not have a flashy resume of past youth national team experience but has made up for it with hard work.
4. Kevin Alston, 21, New England Revolution
He is starting due to some injuries, but has looked solid in his eight starts. He has great speed and can get forward into the attack easily. He can play on both the right and left side.
5. Blake Wagner, 21, FC Dallas
He has been playing professional soccer for three full seasons. The Generation Adidas product made 23 starts last season, making him to the most experienced player on the list. He can also play in the midfield.
Do you feel more comfortable with the left back position depth? Do you see this as an area of strength of the US in future, as opposed to the weakness it is now? Share your thoughts below.
