***Official Soccer Discussion Thread*** (1 Viewer)

[LHUCKS]

Just noticed that Brazil/Mexico is on right after US/Ecuador next week....nice.

 

[Christo]

I wonder what Christo thought of Fulham crushing QPR 6-0? which of your teams were you routing for?

Not happy at all. Kinda like finding your best friend having sex with your girlfriend. If QPR keeps it up I won't have to worry about it next year.

 

[Eephus]

I wonder what Christo thought of Fulham crushing QPR 6-0? which of your teams were you routing for?

Not happy at all. Kinda like finding your best friend having sex with your girlfriend. If QPR keeps it up I won't have to worry about it next year.

The Hoops are still sitting mid table. I thought their biggest problem at the start of the season was their ownership situation. That got resolved before the August transfer window so QPR was able to strengthen their team considerably. The league outside of the top six is pretty tight so a lot will depend on injuries and form but I'm a lot more confident they'll stay up than I was two months ago.The small capacity of Loftus Road is a long term issue for QPR but I think a London team with a small stadium is better positioned to compete financially than a non-London side with a similar ground. A team like Fulham seems like the model for what Fernandes could accomplish at QPR.

 

[El Floppo]

I wonder what Christo thought of Fulham crushing QPR 6-0? which of your teams were you routing for?

Not happy at all. Kinda like finding your best friend having sex with your girlfriend. If QPR keeps it up I won't have to worry about it next year.

The Hoops are still sitting mid table. I thought their biggest problem at the start of the season was their ownership situation. That got resolved before the August transfer window so QPR was able to strengthen their team considerably. The league outside of the top six is pretty tight so a lot will depend on injuries and form but I'm a lot more confident they'll stay up than I was two months ago.The small capacity of Loftus Road is a long term issue for QPR but I think a London team with a small stadium is better positioned to compete financially than a non-London side with a similar ground. A team like Fulham seems like the model for what Fernandes could accomplish at QPR.

So you're saying they need to start recruiting some Yanks?

 

[Eephus]

I wonder what Christo thought of Fulham crushing QPR 6-0? which of your teams were you routing for?

Not happy at all. Kinda like finding your best friend having sex with your girlfriend. If QPR keeps it up I won't have to worry about it next year.

The Hoops are still sitting mid table. I thought their biggest problem at the start of the season was their ownership situation. That got resolved before the August transfer window so QPR was able to strengthen their team considerably. The league outside of the top six is pretty tight so a lot will depend on injuries and form but I'm a lot more confident they'll stay up than I was two months ago.The small capacity of Loftus Road is a long term issue for QPR but I think a London team with a small stadium is better positioned to compete financially than a non-London side with a similar ground. A team like Fulham seems like the model for what Fernandes could accomplish at QPR.

So you're saying they need to start recruiting some Yanks?

more creepy Michael Jackson statues

 

[NewlyRetired]

Two interesting games tomorrow night on TV

LA @ NY on ESPN2 at 8 eastern

* Make up game from Irena

* LA can win the Supporters Shield with 3 points and the automatic entry to the CCL that goes along with it

* Donovan(resting/injury) and Keane(international duty) are missing game

* Marquez not starting central defense again. Seems to have been moved to midfield since his pathetic outburst

* NY basically fighting for its playoff life

US Open Cup Final between Seattle and Chicago on FSC at 10 eastern

* Chicago is playing very well right now, best they have all season

* Seattle is also playing well but might be with out Morales and Riley due to injury

* Game is expected to have the largest crowd ever for a US Open Cup game.

* Seattle is going for it's 3rd straight title and Chicago is going for it's record tying 5th title

* Winner of game gets automatic bid to next years CCL

 

[NewlyRetired]

Onyewu is healthy and back in the mix By Luke Cyphers and Doug McIntyreTo watch Oguchi Onyewu last week with Sporting Lisbon in his new club's 2-1 Europa League victory over Lazio was a chance to both go back in time and foresee a brighter future for the U.S. national team.With his club down a man in the second half, Onyewu controlled the central defense for Lisbon, using his strength, positioning and grit to withstand a Lazio attack led by German national team star Miroslav Klose. He commanded the defense and brought back memories of the Onyewu who anchored the back for the U.S. run to the Confederations Cup final in 2009.His run of form and good health comes at an opportune time for the U.S. team, which is seeking answers for what's been a thin back line the past year. Thanks to his call-up for this set of friendlies -- Saturday against Honduras in Miami and Oct. 11 against Ecuador in New York -- Onyewu has his first chance to show new coach Jurgen Klinsmann he can still be one of those answers."I'm excited to be back in the fold, you know?" Onyewu told Insider on Friday in his first major interview since his move to Portugal. "It's always an honor, a pleasure, a great accomplishment to be called into any camp. Having been away now for a few camps, obviously it's a different cycle, a different coach, and the importance is a little bit different than in the past."

 

[LHUCKS]

Onyewu is healthy and back in the mix By Luke Cyphers and Doug McIntyreTo watch Oguchi Onyewu last week with Sporting Lisbon in his new club's 2-1 Europa League victory over Lazio was a chance to both go back in time and foresee a brighter future for the U.S. national team.With his club down a man in the second half, Onyewu controlled the central defense for Lisbon, using his strength, positioning and grit to withstand a Lazio attack led by German national team star Miroslav Klose. He commanded the defense and brought back memories of the Onyewu who anchored the back for the U.S. run to the Confederations Cup final in 2009.His run of form and good health comes at an opportune time for the U.S. team, which is seeking answers for what's been a thin back line the past year. Thanks to his call-up for this set of friendlies -- Saturday against Honduras in Miami and Oct. 11 against Ecuador in New York -- Onyewu has his first chance to show new coach Jurgen Klinsmann he can still be one of those answers."I'm excited to be back in the fold, you know?" Onyewu told Insider on Friday in his first major interview since his move to Portugal. "It's always an honor, a pleasure, a great accomplishment to be called into any camp. Having been away now for a few camps, obviously it's a different cycle, a different coach, and the importance is a little bit different than in the past."

If Gooch is as good as advertised I'm really starting to get excited for our 2014 prospects. I think we can really make a run if some of the right pieces fall together.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Onyewu is healthy and back in the mix By Luke Cyphers and Doug McIntyreTo watch Oguchi Onyewu last week with Sporting Lisbon in his new club's 2-1 Europa League victory over Lazio was a chance to both go back in time and foresee a brighter future for the U.S. national team.With his club down a man in the second half, Onyewu controlled the central defense for Lisbon, using his strength, positioning and grit to withstand a Lazio attack led by German national team star Miroslav Klose. He commanded the defense and brought back memories of the Onyewu who anchored the back for the U.S. run to the Confederations Cup final in 2009.His run of form and good health comes at an opportune time for the U.S. team, which is seeking answers for what's been a thin back line the past year. Thanks to his call-up for this set of friendlies -- Saturday against Honduras in Miami and Oct. 11 against Ecuador in New York -- Onyewu has his first chance to show new coach Jurgen Klinsmann he can still be one of those answers."I'm excited to be back in the fold, you know?" Onyewu told Insider on Friday in his first major interview since his move to Portugal. "It's always an honor, a pleasure, a great accomplishment to be called into any camp. Having been away now for a few camps, obviously it's a different cycle, a different coach, and the importance is a little bit different than in the past."

If Gooch is as good as advertised I'm really starting to get excited for our 2014 prospects. I think we can really make a run if some of the right pieces fall together.

Gooch will not be a spring chicken come 2014. With Donovan, Dempsey, Cherundolo, and Boca, there will be too many players on the wrong side of 31 or older for my liking.

 

[Sebowski]

I've been meaning to mention that I watched a College game on Friday night- UNC vs Duke.

Color me jaw-dropping impressed. I assume these teams are ranked well to get on tv, but wow- UNC was fantastic as a team and individually. Keep an ear open for the name Shuler/Schuller? from UNC... the kid is astonishingly good on the ball and explosive/quick. UNC had 3-4 guys who all looked ready to play at the next level right now, and they all combined incredibly well all game... even a man down, they were the team that looked most likely to score in OT. I was astonished how quickly both teams play- and play well.

Even though I played it, watching college games in my day were never that entertaining- too fast without control. These two teams were a lot of fun to watch- with quality players up and down the field who looked eager to make plays and take guys on. The college game appears to have progressed soooooo much from when I played 20+ years, when there were inevitable weak-spots on teams with guys who lacked either the physical, tactical or ball skills. These two teams went deep into their benches without missing a beat. Considering the rise of youth players immediately migrating to MLS or Europe and foregoing college, I had assumed there'd be a dip at that level... nope.

How much subbing did they do? That sub rule scares me off, but I haven't watched any to know how bad it is. If anyone sees UNC-Willmintgon coming up on TV, please let me know. My cousin is a freshman there.

 

[LHUCKS]

Onyewu is healthy and back in the mix By Luke Cyphers and Doug McIntyreTo watch Oguchi Onyewu last week with Sporting Lisbon in his new club's 2-1 Europa League victory over Lazio was a chance to both go back in time and foresee a brighter future for the U.S. national team.With his club down a man in the second half, Onyewu controlled the central defense for Lisbon, using his strength, positioning and grit to withstand a Lazio attack led by German national team star Miroslav Klose. He commanded the defense and brought back memories of the Onyewu who anchored the back for the U.S. run to the Confederations Cup final in 2009.His run of form and good health comes at an opportune time for the U.S. team, which is seeking answers for what's been a thin back line the past year. Thanks to his call-up for this set of friendlies -- Saturday against Honduras in Miami and Oct. 11 against Ecuador in New York -- Onyewu has his first chance to show new coach Jurgen Klinsmann he can still be one of those answers."I'm excited to be back in the fold, you know?" Onyewu told Insider on Friday in his first major interview since his move to Portugal. "It's always an honor, a pleasure, a great accomplishment to be called into any camp. Having been away now for a few camps, obviously it's a different cycle, a different coach, and the importance is a little bit different than in the past."

If Gooch is as good as advertised I'm really starting to get excited for our 2014 prospects. I think we can really make a run if some of the right pieces fall together.

Gooch will not be a spring chicken come 2014. With Donovan, Dempsey, Cherundolo, and Boca, there will be too many players on the wrong side of 31 or older for my liking.

yeah, mostly worried about Dolo and Dempsey...both of which heavily rely on their skill/smarts already. Gooch is/was an athletic beast...I wouldn't be surprised if he still has it. Boca hasn't showed any signs of slowing. Donovan should be fine in the midfield.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I've been meaning to mention that I watched a College game on Friday night- UNC vs Duke.

Color me jaw-dropping impressed. I assume these teams are ranked well to get on tv, but wow- UNC was fantastic as a team and individually. Keep an ear open for the name Shuler/Schuller? from UNC... the kid is astonishingly good on the ball and explosive/quick. UNC had 3-4 guys who all looked ready to play at the next level right now, and they all combined incredibly well all game... even a man down, they were the team that looked most likely to score in OT. I was astonished how quickly both teams play- and play well.

Even though I played it, watching college games in my day were never that entertaining- too fast without control. These two teams were a lot of fun to watch- with quality players up and down the field who looked eager to make plays and take guys on. The college game appears to have progressed soooooo much from when I played 20+ years, when there were inevitable weak-spots on teams with guys who lacked either the physical, tactical or ball skills. These two teams went deep into their benches without missing a beat. Considering the rise of youth players immediately migrating to MLS or Europe and foregoing college, I had assumed there'd be a dip at that level... nope.

How much subbing did they do? That sub rule scares me off, but I haven't watched any to know how bad it is. If anyone sees UNC-Willmintgon coming up on TV, please let me know. My cousin is a freshman there.

It's not horrible. The rule change helps a bit especially in second half to limit it. If not familiar the rule is that if you are subbed out you can not return in the same half. These are the games listed on FSC. I think ESPNU and ESPN2 show some tournament games and final 4 respectively.

http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/tvschedule

 

[NewlyRetired]

Onyewu is healthy and back in the mix By Luke Cyphers and Doug McIntyreTo watch Oguchi Onyewu last week with Sporting Lisbon in his new club's 2-1 Europa League victory over Lazio was a chance to both go back in time and foresee a brighter future for the U.S. national team.With his club down a man in the second half, Onyewu controlled the central defense for Lisbon, using his strength, positioning and grit to withstand a Lazio attack led by German national team star Miroslav Klose. He commanded the defense and brought back memories of the Onyewu who anchored the back for the U.S. run to the Confederations Cup final in 2009.His run of form and good health comes at an opportune time for the U.S. team, which is seeking answers for what's been a thin back line the past year. Thanks to his call-up for this set of friendlies -- Saturday against Honduras in Miami and Oct. 11 against Ecuador in New York -- Onyewu has his first chance to show new coach Jurgen Klinsmann he can still be one of those answers."I'm excited to be back in the fold, you know?" Onyewu told Insider on Friday in his first major interview since his move to Portugal. "It's always an honor, a pleasure, a great accomplishment to be called into any camp. Having been away now for a few camps, obviously it's a different cycle, a different coach, and the importance is a little bit different than in the past."

If Gooch is as good as advertised I'm really starting to get excited for our 2014 prospects. I think we can really make a run if some of the right pieces fall together.

Gooch will not be a spring chicken come 2014. With Donovan, Dempsey, Cherundolo, and Boca, there will be too many players on the wrong side of 31 or older for my liking.

yeah, mostly worried about Dolo and Dempsey...both of which heavily rely on their skill/smarts already. Gooch is/was an athletic beast...I wouldn't be surprised if he still has it. Boca hasn't showed any signs of slowing. Donovan should be fine in the midfield.

Dempsey is the youngest of the group at 31 come 2014, so that should help him. Gooch looked as good athletically in the one game I watched as I had ever seen him and this comes from one who is on record who basically stated he was almost done as a player.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Good piece from Steve Davis on top 10 MLS players yet to be called my Klinsmann

Power RankingsTop Americans in MLS yet to get into a match under new national team coach Jurgen Klinsmann:1. Omar Gonzalez, Los Angeles: It would have been shocking two years ago to consider this conversation; when he was 2009 Rookie of the Year, we assumed "mainstay" status in the U.S. shirt was imminent. But worries persist over his distribution and his quickness in tight spaces. But really, the big Galaxy center back can't be any worse at the art of "stop and distribute" than Michael Orozco Fiscal, can he?2. Benny Feilhaber, New England: Given the lack of creative thinking from the current crop of midfielders in the U.S. pool, this one surely is a "when" rather than an "if." The World Cup veteran, a smooth passer who can also create off the dribble, seems a lock for future call-ups.3. Charlie Davies, D.C. United: He's still not back to pre-accident form, but much of the raw ability is still there. Davies needs to refine his game, developing better habits to overcome that slight loss of pace. If he can adjust, there's no reason he can't be as productive as before.4. George John, FC Dallas: FC Dallas' central mainstay nearly got away to Blackburn, a move that probably would have improved his national team chances. Nonetheless, John will get the international calls eventually, assuming he keeps progressing and polishing his game.5. Sheanon Williams, Philadelphia: The Union's 21-year-old right back loves to get forward, and he's having a sensational season at PPL Park. His defending is solid, too, which is why he's been an automatic selection for Peter Nowak's team.6. Brad Davis, Houston: Sure, most of his assists are arranged off set-piece service, but those count, too. Plus, the league's current co-leader in that category is useful in the run of play, even if pace is something of an issue. Has anybody ever tried this guy at left back? He wouldn't be a top-choice defender for tough international opposition, but he might fit well against the CONCACAF sides that are determined to dig in for the draw.7. Chris Pontius, D.C. United: The Black and Red's versatile attacker was on fire when he went down three weeks ago with a tibia fracture. He should be back in plenty of time for the U.S. January camp, and he's just the kind of enterprising young attacker Klinsmann seems to like.8. Geoff Cameron, Houston: He's made a return to center back lately at Robertson, and he's already having big performances back there. Cameron tends to be average as an MLS midfielder but much closer to the outstanding zone when he lines up at center back. His quick little bursts forward from the back might get a little dicey at international level, but they do provide a surprise element.9. Bobby Convey, San Jose: The left-sided specialist lost favor in the Bob Bradley camp after some poorly chosen comments. And Convey does himself no favors by carping about playing left back. Perhaps Klinsmann can convince the Earthquakes' veteran that he could be a dandy at the spot.10. Sean Johnson, Chicago: If D.C. United's Bill Hamid is the up-and-coming U.S. goalkeeper of choice under Klinsmann, the Chicago Fire's 21-year-old, second-year starter can't be far behind.

 

[NewlyRetired]

What is the equivalent of a chairmen in Football or Baseball? Is it what we call a president?

Ellis Short takes Sunderland chair roleSUNDERLAND, England -- The Texas businessman who owns Sunderland is taking over as chairman of the English Premier League soccer club.The team says Ellis Short will replace Niall Quinn, who is giving up his work as chairman to spearhead international development of the team.Short says new financial regulations make it "essential for the long-term success of the club that we develop interests on a global scale." Short assumed full control of Sunderland in 2009 after buying a stake the previous year.

 

[NewlyRetired]

18 players are already in camp for the US. Should give some decent time ton train together. I figure Ream, Donovan and Aguedelo are amongst the missing.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Montreal will announce its first MLS signing tomorrow. I assume it is a player that was on their NASL team.

It's being reported that it's Colombian and former Inter central defender Nelson Rivas. DP most likely

It was Rivas but he was not signed as a DP, which is good. He didn't seem like a DP level signing. Montreal manager said they were very creative in their negotiations with Rivas so that he would not chew up a DP slot.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Speaking of college soccer, it seems every week another school is setting an attendance record. Good to see more people going to see the sport at all levels of the game especially with MLS having its best ever season attendance wise. Hope the weather holds for the FSC Wednesday game as that could be a huge crowd.

From Soccer America

Akron and Carolina break crowd records

October 3rd, 2011 7:55PM

[ATTENDANCE WATCH] Two of the biggest programs in the country -- Akron and North Carolina -- drew record home crowds this past week.

Akron earned a 3-1 victory over Ohio State Wednesday night in front of 5,819 fans at FirstEnergy Stadium – Cub Cadet Field. The crowd featured 2,855 students.

North Carolina battled to a 2-2 draw with rival Duke Friday night in front of 4,825.

The UNC-Duke crowd was only the fourth largest crowd of the week. Besides Akron-Ohio State, Maryland-Creighton drew 5,648 and UC Santa Barbara-UC Irvine attracted 5,417.

Look for one of the biggest college crowds ever on Wednesday -- weather permitting -- as UC Santa Barbara hosts Akron (TV: Fox Soccer, 10 p.m. ET).

 

[NewlyRetired]

Landon is out for the two US friendlies. Being replaced by Edson Buddle.

 

[Eephus]

What is the equivalent of a chairmen in Football or Baseball? Is it what we call a president?

Ellis Short takes Sunderland chair roleSUNDERLAND, England -- The Texas businessman who owns Sunderland is taking over as chairman of the English Premier League soccer club.The team says Ellis Short will replace Niall Quinn, who is giving up his work as chairman to spearhead international development of the team.Short says new financial regulations make it "essential for the long-term success of the club that we develop interests on a global scale." Short assumed full control of Sunderland in 2009 after buying a stake the previous year.

It means he gets to sack Steve Bruce Niall Quinn has been widely rumored to be headed to Manchester City as Chief Executive. That sounds like a better gig that spearheading international development of Sunderland.

 

[Sebowski]

I've been meaning to mention that I watched a College game on Friday night- UNC vs Duke.

Color me jaw-dropping impressed. I assume these teams are ranked well to get on tv, but wow- UNC was fantastic as a team and individually. Keep an ear open for the name Shuler/Schuller? from UNC... the kid is astonishingly good on the ball and explosive/quick. UNC had 3-4 guys who all looked ready to play at the next level right now, and they all combined incredibly well all game... even a man down, they were the team that looked most likely to score in OT. I was astonished how quickly both teams play- and play well.

Even though I played it, watching college games in my day were never that entertaining- too fast without control. These two teams were a lot of fun to watch- with quality players up and down the field who looked eager to make plays and take guys on. The college game appears to have progressed soooooo much from when I played 20+ years, when there were inevitable weak-spots on teams with guys who lacked either the physical, tactical or ball skills. These two teams went deep into their benches without missing a beat. Considering the rise of youth players immediately migrating to MLS or Europe and foregoing college, I had assumed there'd be a dip at that level... nope.

How much subbing did they do? That sub rule scares me off, but I haven't watched any to know how bad it is. If anyone sees UNC-Willmintgon coming up on TV, please let me know. My cousin is a freshman there.

It's not horrible. The rule change helps a bit especially in second half to limit it. If not familiar the rule is that if you are subbed out you can not return in the same half. These are the games listed on FSC. I think ESPNU and ESPN2 show some tournament games and final 4 respectively.

http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/tvschedule

Thanks, but it looks like I owe my family a phone call. I googled my cousin and found out he is playing at a community college in Chapel Hill. Guess I missed something (though the articles I found referencing him were all positive). Looking through the FSC college TV schedule I saw a San Diego game. I'll try to check them out soon.

 

[LHUCKS]

Landon is out for the two US friendlies. Being replaced by Edson Buddle.

obligatory

 

[NewlyRetired]

What is the equivalent of a chairmen in Football or Baseball? Is it what we call a president?

Ellis Short takes Sunderland chair roleSUNDERLAND, England -- The Texas businessman who owns Sunderland is taking over as chairman of the English Premier League soccer club.The team says Ellis Short will replace Niall Quinn, who is giving up his work as chairman to spearhead international development of the team.Short says new financial regulations make it "essential for the long-term success of the club that we develop interests on a global scale." Short assumed full control of Sunderland in 2009 after buying a stake the previous year.

It means he gets to sack Steve Bruce

So a chairman is equivalent to a GM? I always pictured it being higher in the food chain.

 

[El Floppo]

Speaking of college soccer, it seems every week another school is setting an attendance record. Good to see more people going to see the sport at all levels of the game especially with MLS having its best ever season attendance wise. Hope the weather holds for the FSC Wednesday game as that could be a huge crowd.

From Soccer America

Akron and Carolina break crowd records

October 3rd, 2011 7:55PM

[ATTENDANCE WATCH] Two of the biggest programs in the country -- Akron and North Carolina -- drew record home crowds this past week.

Akron earned a 3-1 victory over Ohio State Wednesday night in front of 5,819 fans at FirstEnergy Stadium – Cub Cadet Field. The crowd featured 2,855 students.

North Carolina battled to a 2-2 draw with rival Duke Friday night in front of 4,825.

The UNC-Duke crowd was only the fourth largest crowd of the week. Besides Akron-Ohio State, Maryland-Creighton drew 5,648 and UC Santa Barbara-UC Irvine attracted 5,417.

Look for one of the biggest college crowds ever on Wednesday -- weather permitting -- as UC Santa Barbara hosts Akron (TV: Fox Soccer, 10 p.m. ET).

Still weird to me that UCSB even has a team- they were only at the club level when I was in school, and some of my HS team-mates played there (these guys weren't very good). But I understand they've been a powerhouse lately? And Akron is basically MLS rookie central this year, so they've got to be good too... should be a good game.Impressive crowds too... wow. Those are comparible or bigger than a lot of the lower division FA Cup sides I've seen. Great to see how things have progressed. Andy- how many people used to go to your college games? IIRC, our stadium held 2k, but was only filled for the big games- usually we'd get maybe a few hundred.

 

[El Floppo]

Any idea if the RBNY players will be on the squad for the game at RBNY stadium?

 

[Eephus]

What is the equivalent of a chairmen in Football or Baseball? Is it what we call a president?

Ellis Short takes Sunderland chair roleSUNDERLAND, England -- The Texas businessman who owns Sunderland is taking over as chairman of the English Premier League soccer club.The team says Ellis Short will replace Niall Quinn, who is giving up his work as chairman to spearhead international development of the team.Short says new financial regulations make it "essential for the long-term success of the club that we develop interests on a global scale." Short assumed full control of Sunderland in 2009 after buying a stake the previous year.

It means he gets to sack Steve Bruce

So a chairman is equivalent to a GM? I always pictured it being higher in the food chain.

Not really. The manager is generally the equivalent of a Coach & GM. They have broader personnel responsibilities than almost all US coaches. The chairman is in charge of the team finances and gets to hire and fire the manager.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Speaking of college soccer, it seems every week another school is setting an attendance record. Good to see more people going to see the sport at all levels of the game especially with MLS having its best ever season attendance wise. Hope the weather holds for the FSC Wednesday game as that could be a huge crowd.

From Soccer America

Akron and Carolina break crowd records

October 3rd, 2011 7:55PM

[ATTENDANCE WATCH] Two of the biggest programs in the country -- Akron and North Carolina -- drew record home crowds this past week.

Akron earned a 3-1 victory over Ohio State Wednesday night in front of 5,819 fans at FirstEnergy Stadium – Cub Cadet Field. The crowd featured 2,855 students.

North Carolina battled to a 2-2 draw with rival Duke Friday night in front of 4,825.

The UNC-Duke crowd was only the fourth largest crowd of the week. Besides Akron-Ohio State, Maryland-Creighton drew 5,648 and UC Santa Barbara-UC Irvine attracted 5,417.

Look for one of the biggest college crowds ever on Wednesday -- weather permitting -- as UC Santa Barbara hosts Akron (TV: Fox Soccer, 10 p.m. ET).

Still weird to me that UCSB even has a team- they were only at the club level when I was in school, and some of my HS team-mates played there (these guys weren't very good). But I understand they've been a powerhouse lately? And Akron is basically MLS rookie central this year, so they've got to be good too... should be a good game.Impressive crowds too... wow. Those are comparible or bigger than a lot of the lower division FA Cup sides I've seen. Great to see how things have progressed. Andy- how many people used to go to your college games? IIRC, our stadium held 2k, but was only filled for the big games- usually we'd get maybe a few hundred.

UCSB has been Div 1 from the Big West since 1983 but UCSB program has really exploded in the early 2000's. They won the NCAA in 2004 and 2006 and have placed a bunch of players in MLS over the years. The best current player from there is Chris Pontius. They had a game against San Diego this year that drew over 13k. I played at a very small school in college. Probably biggest crowd ever was about 500 for an NCAA tournament game, but a typical game was around a 100 if memory serves.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Any idea if the RBNY players will be on the squad for the game at RBNY stadium?

Unless they get hurt tonight, they will be available for both friendlies. NY does not have a game this weekend.

 

[NewlyRetired]

If the players on the field won't score, sometimes the fans will take it into their own hands

Bayern Munich fans caught having sex in stands during Hoffenheim match

 

[El Floppo]

Speaking of college soccer, it seems every week another school is setting an attendance record. Good to see more people going to see the sport at all levels of the game especially with MLS having its best ever season attendance wise. Hope the weather holds for the FSC Wednesday game as that could be a huge crowd.

From Soccer America

Akron and Carolina break crowd records

October 3rd, 2011 7:55PM

[ATTENDANCE WATCH] Two of the biggest programs in the country -- Akron and North Carolina -- drew record home crowds this past week.

Akron earned a 3-1 victory over Ohio State Wednesday night in front of 5,819 fans at FirstEnergy Stadium – Cub Cadet Field. The crowd featured 2,855 students.

North Carolina battled to a 2-2 draw with rival Duke Friday night in front of 4,825.

The UNC-Duke crowd was only the fourth largest crowd of the week. Besides Akron-Ohio State, Maryland-Creighton drew 5,648 and UC Santa Barbara-UC Irvine attracted 5,417.

Look for one of the biggest college crowds ever on Wednesday -- weather permitting -- as UC Santa Barbara hosts Akron (TV: Fox Soccer, 10 p.m. ET).

Still weird to me that UCSB even has a team- they were only at the club level when I was in school, and some of my HS team-mates played there (these guys weren't very good). But I understand they've been a powerhouse lately? And Akron is basically MLS rookie central this year, so they've got to be good too... should be a good game.Impressive crowds too... wow. Those are comparible or bigger than a lot of the lower division FA Cup sides I've seen. Great to see how things have progressed. Andy- how many people used to go to your college games? IIRC, our stadium held 2k, but was only filled for the big games- usually we'd get maybe a few hundred.

UCSB has been Div 1 from the Big West since 1983 but UCSB program has really exploded in the early 2000's. They won the NCAA in 2004 and 2006 and have placed a bunch of players in MLS over the years. The best current player from there is Chris Pontius. They had a game against San Diego this year that drew over 13k. I played at a very small school in college. Probably biggest crowd ever was about 500 for an NCAA tournament game, but a typical game was around a 100 if memory serves.

hmmmm- thanks.I'm though- only because I remember visiting there in the late 80s (all of my gbs from HS went there) and running into one of my old HS soccer team-mates who told me he was playing there, but that they only had a club team. Maybe he meant that he was only playing on a club team... must be, given the 1983 you mentioned. :liar:

 

[NewlyRetired]

Speaking of college soccer, it seems every week another school is setting an attendance record. Good to see more people going to see the sport at all levels of the game especially with MLS having its best ever season attendance wise. Hope the weather holds for the FSC Wednesday game as that could be a huge crowd.

From Soccer America

Akron and Carolina break crowd records

October 3rd, 2011 7:55PM

[ATTENDANCE WATCH] Two of the biggest programs in the country -- Akron and North Carolina -- drew record home crowds this past week.

Akron earned a 3-1 victory over Ohio State Wednesday night in front of 5,819 fans at FirstEnergy Stadium – Cub Cadet Field. The crowd featured 2,855 students.

North Carolina battled to a 2-2 draw with rival Duke Friday night in front of 4,825.

The UNC-Duke crowd was only the fourth largest crowd of the week. Besides Akron-Ohio State, Maryland-Creighton drew 5,648 and UC Santa Barbara-UC Irvine attracted 5,417.

Look for one of the biggest college crowds ever on Wednesday -- weather permitting -- as UC Santa Barbara hosts Akron (TV: Fox Soccer, 10 p.m. ET).

Still weird to me that UCSB even has a team- they were only at the club level when I was in school, and some of my HS team-mates played there (these guys weren't very good). But I understand they've been a powerhouse lately? And Akron is basically MLS rookie central this year, so they've got to be good too... should be a good game.Impressive crowds too... wow. Those are comparible or bigger than a lot of the lower division FA Cup sides I've seen. Great to see how things have progressed. Andy- how many people used to go to your college games? IIRC, our stadium held 2k, but was only filled for the big games- usually we'd get maybe a few hundred.

UCSB has been Div 1 from the Big West since 1983 but UCSB program has really exploded in the early 2000's. They won the NCAA in 2004 and 2006 and have placed a bunch of players in MLS over the years. The best current player from there is Chris Pontius. They had a game against San Diego this year that drew over 13k. I played at a very small school in college. Probably biggest crowd ever was about 500 for an NCAA tournament game, but a typical game was around a 100 if memory serves.

hmmmm- thanks.I'm though- only because I remember visiting there in the late 80s (all of my gbs from HS went there) and running into one of my old HS soccer team-mates who told me he was playing there, but that they only had a club team. Maybe he meant that he was only playing on a club team... must be, given the 1983 you mentioned. :liar:

Depending upon how you interpret the wiki, they may have been a real team well before 1983 as well. I just chose 1983 since I was sure they were Div 1 at that time.

UC Santa Barbara fielded its first team in 1966, but it wasn't until 1983 until they first competed in the Big West Conference. The Gauchos had mixed success, mixing good seasons (1983, 1988) with bad seasons (1991, 1992), yet never found prolonged success or failure.

The Big West Conference stopped sponsoring soccer in 1991, but re-instituted it in 2001. Over this period, UCSB competed in a regional conference called the MPSF. The return of soccer to the Big West Conference marked the beginning of the Gauchos' greatest success, starting from the very first season. The Gauchos won the 2001 Big West Conference championship, but missed out on a trip to the NCAA Tournament since the Big West did not have an automatic bid.

Since 2001, the UCSB has won 5 Big West championships (2001, 02, 04, 06, 07) and have appeared in the NCAA Tournament in every year since 2002.

 

[Slapdash]

If the players on the field won't score, sometimes the fans will take it into their own hands

Bayern Munich fans caught having sex in stands during Hoffenheim match

 

[NewlyRetired]

If the players on the field won't score, sometimes the fans will take it into their own hands

Bayern Munich fans caught having sex in stands during Hoffenheim match

This was my favorite part"The people around them apparently were not disturbed."

The soccer moms at Revs games lose control of their bowels if any one says something as bad as "you suck", I think their heads would implode if this happened at an MLS game

 

[El Floppo]

If the players on the field won't score, sometimes the fans will take it into their own hands

Bayern Munich fans caught having sex in stands during Hoffenheim match

This was my favorite part"The people around them apparently were not disturbed."

The soccer moms at Revs games lose control of their bowels if any one says something as bad as "you suck", I think their heads would implode if this happened at an MLS game

I guess those are different people than what go to Red Sox games.

 

[The Gator]

Rodwell's red card rescinded

Now to fine Atkinson for Webbing this game

 

[El Floppo]

Rodwell's red card rescinded

Now to fine Atkinson for Webbing this game

shouldn't have even been a foul, let alone a card of any sort.

 

[NewlyRetired]

You could have give me 46 guesses before I came up with New Orleans

Steven Goff (@SoccerInsider)

10/4/11 3:22 PM

New Orleans by wide margin had highest rating for #Spurs v #Arsenal. Next: KC, Vegas, DAL, Jax-ville, Austin, DET, G-boro, San Antonio, DC

 

[CletiusMaximus]

time to close the books on goal of the year: Eren Derdiyok - Bayer Leverkusen vs. VfL Wolfsburg

 

[CletiusMaximus]

oh Dane Brekken, I so wanted to like you. Why?

 

[Sebowski]

time to close the books on goal of the year: Eren Derdiyok - Bayer Leverkusen vs. VfL Wolfsburg

They showed that goal on PTI and said it was Ibra

 

[The Z Machine]

time to close the books on goal of the year: Eren Derdiyok - Bayer Leverkusen vs. VfL Wolfsburg

They showed that goal on PTI and said it was Ibra

LOLMost goals don't warrant the taking off of the shirt and running around crazy. That one did. Those are goals strikers dream about for a lifetime and never connect.

 

[The Z Machine]

What games are you guys excited about for the EUROs qualifying? Spain / Czech Rep. could be interesting, as is Serbia / Italy and maybe Greece / Croatia.

 

[Christo]

time to close the books on goal of the year: Eren Derdiyok - Bayer Leverkusen vs. VfL Wolfsburg

They showed that goal on PTI and said it was Ibra

LOLMost goals don't warrant the taking off of the shirt and running around crazy. That one did. Those are goals strikers dream about for a lifetime and never connect.

Meh. Why put all of that work into it when it can be done much more efficiently?My link

 

[The Z Machine]

time to close the books on goal of the year: Eren Derdiyok - Bayer Leverkusen vs. VfL Wolfsburg

They showed that goal on PTI and said it was Ibra

LOLMost goals don't warrant the taking off of the shirt and running around crazy. That one did. Those are goals strikers dream about for a lifetime and never connect.

Meh. Why put all of that work into it when it can be done much more efficiently?My link

My what a nice looking pitch they have.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Look for ***ito to have a big game in the US Open Cup. He is great in these tournaments.

 

[scoobygang]

oh Dane Brekken, I so wanted to like you. Why?

LOL. What's up with the burro?

 

[The Z Machine]

oh Dane Brekken, I so wanted to like you. Why?

LOL. What's up with the burro?

I was thinking more about the poem-tat on his side. Is that better or worse than Beckham's tramp-stamp?

 

[NewlyRetired]

oh Dane Brekken, I so wanted to like you. Why?

LOL. What's up with the burro?

I was thinking more about the poem-tat on his side. Is that better or worse than Beckham's tramp-stamp?

Pablo and Cobi and Landon probably all wish they were Brek compared to these embarrassing shoots (what in gods name was Pablo thinking???)http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2002/05/23/magazine/26fash-slide6.jpg

http://www.nytimes.com/images/2002/05/23/magazine/26fash-slide7.jpg

http://wherethecamerasat.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/landon_donovan_fountain.jpg?w=468&h=390

 

[El Floppo]

oh Dane Brekken, I so wanted to like you. Why?

LOL. What's up with the burro?

I was thinking more about the poem-tat on his side. Is that better or worse than Beckham's tramp-stamp?

Pablo and Cobi and Landon probably all wish they were Brek compared to these embarrassing shoots (what in gods name was Pablo thinking???)http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2002/05/23/magazine/26fash-slide6.jpg

http://www.nytimes.com/images/2002/05/23/magazine/26fash-slide7.jpg

http://wherethecamerasat.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/landon_donovan_fountain.jpg?w=468&h=390

holy ####### ####. I don't think that LD shot is safe for work. NTTAWT

 

[El Floppo]

oh Dane Brekken, I so wanted to like you. Why?

LOL. What's up with the burro?

this is exactly the question that came to mind for me too.btw- speaking about players modeling... Freddie Ljungberg had a building sized billboard down the street from for Calvin Klein underwear... in basically women's panties. I'll try to find it... except I shudder to think that my wife might find my search after those pics of Pablo and LD.