***Official Soccer Discussion Thread*** (6 Viewers)

[El Floppo]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

too bad for Fulham though- they deserved more from that. The play-by-play guy said something along the lines of "Fulham will play far worse than that this season and come away with 3 points"

 

[GoFishTN]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

Welcome.

 

[The Gator]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

The more we have rooting against Arsenal the better

 

[Steve Tasker]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

The more we have rooting against Arsenal the better

#### OFF, SCOUSER

 

[Eephus]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

Welcome.

Spurs will tantalize but in the end they'll disappoint you more often than not.

 

[Sebowski]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

Welcome.

Spurs will tantalize but in the end they'll disappoint you more often than not.

Sounds like my first girlfriend. :rimshot:

 

[The Gator]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

Welcome.

Spurs will tantalize but in the end they'll disappoint you more often than not.

Sounds like my first girlfriend. :rimjob:

 

[NewlyRetired]

Article on Charles Renken leaving open the chance to play for Zambia

http://www.times.co.zm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2734:charles-renken-open-for-chipolopolo-call-up&catid=38:sports&Itemid=48

 

[NewlyRetired]

Today's installment of As the Cosmos Turn. We now know who purchased the "team". There are some obvious knowledge issues with this article in terms of the history of the club but ignoring those there is some decent new info in here.

New York Cosmos CEO Paul Kemsley Sells Out to Sela Sports. Cosmos now owed by Saudi Arabia Firm.

The building of a great team can take many paths and twists and The New York Cosmos are experiencing their own uproar on their road to success.

The New York Cosmos, a familiar name in American soccer, is in upheaval. The once-glamorous, iconic soccer team, who got world-famous Pelé to leave retirement and come play for them, is changing hands again. Will pandemonium rear its head and will the Cosmos continue their attempt to become the 20th MLS team?

Sela Sport of Saudi Arabia, A Saudi Arabian company, bought out the shares of former owner, chairman and CEO Paul Kemsley, who resigned last week.

"There has been a buyout at The New York Cosmos and management changes have taken place in various areas of our organization. This also results in a full restructure of both our business and staffing, which will continue to be assessed by the new leadership team that is expected to be appointed within the next 60 days. It is unequivocally the goal of the current ownership to become an MLS team in the most expedient manner possible, and decisions for the club will be made with this in mind."

Changes are already happening. Joe Fraga, the executive director of The New York Cosmos, was fired after the Sela Sport takeover of the team, according to Tropigol. Fraga had just spoken to the media days before, stating on November 2, 2011, "We're still operating business as usual." Joe Fraga added, "Just because the chairman will change doesn't mean we will change." Pelé is still on board with the new owners.

Sela Sport is a major worldwide sports company with offices in New York, UK, Hungary and Saudi Arabia. According to news reports, Sela Sports represents a number of athletes, both retired and current players, including former Brazilian and Cosmos captain Carlos Alberto, ex-Bulgarian and Chicago Fire great Hristo Stoitchkov, among others.

The company spent more than a reported $40 Million in an attempt to help secure a bid for the World Cup and has represented the Saudi Arabian National Team for the past six years. Sela Sport also has partnerships with several Saudi professional clubs.

Originally launched back in 1971, The New York Cosmos used to compete in the North American Soccer League (NASL) until the mid-1980 and were respected in the world of soccer as one of the most competitive franchises in that league. The team was backed by Warner Communications’ President Steve Ross and signed internationally acclaimed stars such as the Brazilian forward Pelé, Italian striker Giorgio Chinaglia and the West German sweeper Franz Beckenbauer as well as Shep Messing.

Somehow when Pelé retired, the popularity of the New York Cosmos dwindled and fans stopped going to games. The lackluster seasons that followed the departure of the world’s best player clearly showed that New York (as well as American) soccer fans were in love with Pele’s showy, entertaining style soccer and not the game itself. The major TV deal broadcasting the games was lost and the team folded in 1984.

There have been several attempts to revive the New York Cosmos. English businessman Paul Kemsley acquired the name of the Cosmos team in 2009 and in August 2010, a new Cosmos team was announced with the Pele as the group's honorary president. The team intended on joining the MLS in New York City and launched youth academy programs on both the East and West Coasts. Earlier and abruptly this season, the Cosmos Academy West was closed, with Director of Coaching Teddy Chronopolus and the majority of the teams joining Chivas USA. A few coaches and teams from Cosmos Academy West, including the U10s, cut a separate deal and joined Golden State Soccer Club in Orange County, California.

When the Cosmos youth academy in California dissolved, it was reported as a sign that The New York Cosmos were getting closer to joining the MLS. The reason offered for closing the West Coast academy was the geographic proximity to the LA Galaxy and CHIVAS USA and an MLS rule preventing any MLS team from having a training academy within 75 miles of an existing MLS team. (Chivas and Galaxy teams existed prior to the regulation and were grandfathered.) It seemed logical that Cosmos West be absorbed by Chivas USA. Teddy Chronopoulos, Chivas USA Youth Academy Director explained that "On behalf of all the players, coaches and families we are all very excited to be a part of the Chivas USA family. Their dedication to youth development in Southern California falls under the same vision as ours."

Paul Kemsley, former Chairman of The New York Cosmos, was very involved with his team and often spoke to the press. This next manifestation of the great Cosmos will have a new face, one that has yet to be announced. The question is not who it will be but if the person can be more effective at achieving the future plans for The New York Cosmos.

 

[B Maverick]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

The more we have rooting against Arsenal the better

which is fun since my brother in law is a gunner fan.

 

[NewlyRetired]

The long awaited pairing of Dempsey and Donovan under Klinsmann is delayed again. Landon has officially withdrawn himself from the friendly roster and will not be replaced.

http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Mens-National-Team/2011/11/LD-Roster.aspx

 

[Prince Myshkin]

ok i'm officially a tottenham fan. i've been trying to decide on a team to root for and i just can't get away from them. every game i watch them play is super exciting (sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always exciting). that game today was crazy!

Welcome.

Spurs will tantalize but in the end they'll disappoint you more often than not.

I think that's part of the appeal...

 

[NewlyRetired]

Here are the various nominees for MLS MVP, Comeback player, rookie and coach of the year

NEW YORK (AP) -- Houston's Brad Davis, D.C. United's Dwayne De Rosario and FC Dallas' Brek Shea are the finalists for MLS MVP, and Los Angeles' David Beckham is among the nominees for comeback player of the year.The MVP winner will be announced Nov. 18.Competing with Beckham for the comeback award, to be announced next Monday, are D.C. United's Charlie Davies and Chicago's Dominic Oduro.Philadelphia's Michael Farfan, D.C. United Perry Kitchen and Sporting Kansas City's C.J. Sapong are finalists for rookie of the year, which will be announced Tuesday.The Galaxy's Bruce Arena, Seatte's Sigi Schmid and KC's Peter Vermes are the finalists for coach of the year, to be announced next Monday.

 

[NewlyRetired]

LIVERPOOL, England (AP) -- Liverpool has completed the signing of highly rated United States youth international Marc Pelosi.

The 17-year-old midfielder will join the Premier League team's academy squad following his move from De Anza Force Club in California on Tuesday.

Pelosi has played 28 times for the U.S.'s Under-17 side, scoring eight goals, and captained the team in this year's World Cup in Mexico.

Liverpool academy director Frank McParland says "we're determined to identify the best possible talent globally and I'm delighted we've been able to bring Marc into the club.''

Liverpool is owned by American investment company Fenway Sports Group.

 

[The Z Machine]

LIVERPOOL, England (AP) -- Liverpool has completed the signing of highly rated United States youth international Marc Pelosi.The 17-year-old midfielder will join the Premier League team's academy squad following his move from De Anza Force Club in California on Tuesday.Pelosi has played 28 times for the U.S.'s Under-17 side, scoring eight goals, and captained the team in this year's World Cup in Mexico.Liverpool academy director Frank McParland says "we're determined to identify the best possible talent globally and I'm delighted we've been able to bring Marc into the club.''Liverpool is owned by American investment company Fenway Sports Group.

Does he hold an EU passport?

 

[NewlyRetired]

LIVERPOOL, England (AP) -- Liverpool has completed the signing of highly rated United States youth international Marc Pelosi.The 17-year-old midfielder will join the Premier League team's academy squad following his move from De Anza Force Club in California on Tuesday.Pelosi has played 28 times for the U.S.'s Under-17 side, scoring eight goals, and captained the team in this year's World Cup in Mexico.Liverpool academy director Frank McParland says "we're determined to identify the best possible talent globally and I'm delighted we've been able to bring Marc into the club.''Liverpool is owned by American investment company Fenway Sports Group.

Does he hold an EU passport?

No idea. He is probably at least 4 years away from even sniffing an EPL game so I look at this as nothing more than a development effort and pray he gets loaned to a team where he can play by the time he is 19.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I also might be a total homer (Manassas and JMU represent!) but I would have liked to have seen C.J. Sapong get a sniff with the Under 23s. He's raw as hell, but there's a physicality to him that few guys we have enjoy. He's the type of dirty work guy that I think would make life easier on a Juan or a Jozy.

I am not entirely sure as I don't know the exact cut off but I don't think Sapong qualifies as an U23 for the Olympics. He is 22 and will turn 23 next month. On a brighter note, he was named the MLS Rookie of the Year today. Hopefully his career path will be more like MLS Rookie of the Year players Dempsey, Bocanegra, and Edu, and less like MLS Rookie of the Year players Heaps, Martino, and Bornstein.

 

[NewlyRetired]

The CCL Quarter final draw was today and an MLS team is guaranteed at least one semi final spot. Also, no chance for two MLS teams in the final as all 3 teams landed on one side of the bracket.

The draw does make for a decent chance to have an MLS in the final, although for that to happen, a Mexican team(Santos) must be eliminated by a non Mexican team, which has never occurred in the short history of the CCL.

1)Toronto FC vs LA Galaxy

2)Seattle Sounders vs Santos Laguna

3)Pumas vs Isidro Metapan

4)Morelia vs Monterray

Home and home

Winner of quarter final 1 plays winner of quarter final 2 in first semifinal

Winner of quarter final 3 plays winner of quarter final 4 in second semifinal

 

[NewlyRetired]

Samir Nasri has been dropped from the French squad due to a knee injury. He will miss both of France's friendlies including the US game on Friday.

 

[NewlyRetired]

If Becks is to leave LA for PSG as expected, this would not be a bad replacement IMO.

Dos Santos unhappy at not playing more at Spurs

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- Mexico forward Giovani Dos Santos says he is becoming increasingly frustrated with his lack of opportunities at Tottenham and may leave the English Premier League club when the transfer window opens in January.

A regular for Mexico, Dos Santos starred as the team successfully defended its Gold Cup title against the United States in June.

Those performances followed a successful period on loan at Spanish club Racing Santander during the second half of last season, scoring five goals in 15 matches.

Nonetheless, Dos Santos has failed to break into Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp's starting lineup.

Dos Santos says he wants "more minutes" on the pitch and has had "lots of offers" to leave.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

I like Pumas just because of their logo.

 

[Texas Football]

So, this is a pretty cool story and restores a little faith in mankind. Backs tory: Sharp lost a 2 day old child about two weeks ago,

http://www.twtd.co.uk/news.php?storyid=19512&title=doncaster_write_to_thank_town_fans

There are other stories to read about some of the respect Sharpe is getting around the league if you feel like a google.

With the racism charges rampant in football and general negativity of all sports right now....

PS:

Please jeebus allow Liverpool to find the back of the net.

 

[Sebowski]

If Becks is to leave LA for PSG as expected, this would not be a bad replacement IMO.

Dos Santos unhappy at not playing more at Spurs

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- Mexico forward Giovani Dos Santos says he is becoming increasingly frustrated with his lack of opportunities at Tottenham and may leave the English Premier League club when the transfer window opens in January.

A regular for Mexico, Dos Santos starred as the team successfully defended its Gold Cup title against the United States in June.

Those performances followed a successful period on loan at Spanish club Racing Santander during the second half of last season, scoring five goals in 15 matches.

Nonetheless, Dos Santos has failed to break into Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp's starting lineup.

Dos Santos says he wants "more minutes" on the pitch and has had "lots of offers" to leave.

Dos Santos is awesome for Mexico. Can't believe he hasn't been able to take off at club level with anyone. I think he would fit in well down the street at Arsenal. Maybe fill the void that is Arshavin.

 

[NewlyRetired]

MLS passes NBA as third best-attended American sport

 

[El Floppo]

MLS passes NBA as third best-attended American sport

 

[El Floppo]

So, this is a pretty cool story and restores a little faith in mankind. Backs tory: Sharp lost a 2 day old child about two weeks ago,http://www.twtd.co.uk/news.php?storyid=19512&title=doncaster_write_to_thank_town_fansThere are other stories to read about some of the respect Sharpe is getting around the league if you feel like a google.With the racism charges rampant in football and general negativity of all sports right now....PSlease jeebus allow Liverpool to find the back of the net.

thanks for sharing that- great story.

 

[El Floppo]

If Becks is to leave LA for PSG as expected, this would not be a bad replacement IMO.

Dos Santos unhappy at not playing more at Spurs

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- Mexico forward Giovani Dos Santos says he is becoming increasingly frustrated with his lack of opportunities at Tottenham and may leave the English Premier League club when the transfer window opens in January.

A regular for Mexico, Dos Santos starred as the team successfully defended its Gold Cup title against the United States in June.

Those performances followed a successful period on loan at Spanish club Racing Santander during the second half of last season, scoring five goals in 15 matches.

Nonetheless, Dos Santos has failed to break into Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp's starting lineup.

Dos Santos says he wants "more minutes" on the pitch and has had "lots of offers" to leave.

Dos Santos is awesome for Mexico. Can't believe he hasn't been able to take off at club level with anyone. I think he would fit in well down the street at Arsenal. Maybe fill the void that is Arshavin.

I always thought the EPL was a wrong fit for him. IMO, he'd be better off playing in Holland or Spain (for a lesser club where he'd get good minutes). There has to be something else going on with him to keep him off the field- his talent is obviously through the roof. Attitude, work-rate, practice technique... something.eta: oh yeah- no way he'd come to MLS in his prime. as amazing as that would be for MLS, I don't see the upside for Dos Santos at all- he should be able to get minutes for a mid-table club anywhere in the world.

 

[NewlyRetired]

If Becks is to leave LA for PSG as expected, this would not be a bad replacement IMO.

Dos Santos unhappy at not playing more at Spurs

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- Mexico forward Giovani Dos Santos says he is becoming increasingly frustrated with his lack of opportunities at Tottenham and may leave the English Premier League club when the transfer window opens in January.

A regular for Mexico, Dos Santos starred as the team successfully defended its Gold Cup title against the United States in June.

Those performances followed a successful period on loan at Spanish club Racing Santander during the second half of last season, scoring five goals in 15 matches.

Nonetheless, Dos Santos has failed to break into Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp's starting lineup.

Dos Santos says he wants "more minutes" on the pitch and has had "lots of offers" to leave.

Dos Santos is awesome for Mexico. Can't believe he hasn't been able to take off at club level with anyone. I think he would fit in well down the street at Arsenal. Maybe fill the void that is Arshavin.

I always thought the EPL was a wrong fit for him. IMO, he'd be better off playing in Holland or Spain (for a lesser club where he'd get good minutes). There has to be something else going on with him to keep him off the field- his talent is obviously through the roof. Attitude, work-rate, practice technique... something.eta: oh yeah- no way he'd come to MLS in his prime. as amazing as that would be for MLS, I don't see the upside for Dos Santos at all- he should be able to get minutes for a mid-table club anywhere in the world.

Only upside is an important one to most players, money. He might be able to make more salary at LA than he could make outside of the huge teams. And his endorsement money would be significantly higher in LA than any where in Europe.

 

[Charlie Steiner]

I have 'strategy' related question after seeing something at my son's U13 game last night. If I get any terms wrong, be gentle...

When lining up to kickoff, the opposing team would put all their forwards and midfielders on the 50. At kickoff, it looked like a mni-jailbreak, as everyone on the line would charge across to different spots across the 50. They never seemed to get the kickoff to any of their teammates, and my son's team usually wound up with the ball and starting an attack going the other way.

I haven't seen a lot of soccer but I've never seen an approach like that, and given that this team had only scored 2 goals all season and had given up a ton during the season (including 7 to my son's team last night), I couldn't understand their determination to stick with this tactic.

I guess my question is: is this a recognized tactic? I can understand a coach willing to take some losses in the name of teaching something that will pay off in the future, but in the last 2-3 years of watching professional as well as kid's soccer, I've never seen an approach like that before. Any insight is appreciated. TYVM...

 

[NewlyRetired]

I have 'strategy' related question after seeing something at my son's U13 game last night. If I get any terms wrong, be gentle...When lining up to kickoff, the opposing team would put all their forwards and midfielders on the 50. At kickoff, it looked like a mni-jailbreak, as everyone on the line would charge across to different spots across the 50. They never seemed to get the kickoff to any of their teammates, and my son's team usually wound up with the ball and starting an attack going the other way.I haven't seen a lot of soccer but I've never seen an approach like that, and given that this team had only scored 2 goals all season and had given up a ton during the season (including 7 to my son's team last night), I couldn't understand their determination to stick with this tactic.I guess my question is: is this a recognized tactic? I can understand a coach willing to take some losses in the name of teaching something that will pay off in the future, but in the last 2-3 years of watching professional as well as kid's soccer, I've never seen an approach like that before. Any insight is appreciated. TYVM...

Your instincts are good. That is not a recognized tactic in any way shape or form, no matter what age group.Not to be mean to the coach because I am sure the coach is volunteering his/her time and energy which is always commendable in youth sports, but from what you describe it basically sounds like he is in 1967 and never saw a soccer game before in his life.

 

[B Maverick]

MLS passes NBA as third best-attended American sport

per grant wahl: this is badly misleading due to lesser amounts of gamesper game (total):

MLS 17,872 (10,973,664)

NBA 17,323 (21,302,573)

MLB 30,352 (73,451,522)

NFL 66,960 (17,141,859)

Nice to see the gains though

 

[NewlyRetired]

MLS passes NBA as third best-attended American sport

per grant wahl: this is badly misleading due to lesser amounts of gamesper game (total):

MLS 17,872 (10,973,664)

NBA 17,323 (21,302,573)

MLB 30,352 (73,451,522)

NFL 66,960 (17,141,859)

Nice to see the gains though

When you consider how many times soccer has been bashed with misleading information over the years, I guess this is ok to see it on the other foot for once The only misleading items are the headlines. The data inside the articles are usually much more fair.

I don't think the comparisons are even needed. Just the simple fact that MLS continues to grow, especially in this economy, is all soccer fans really need to be concerned with.

I am unsure where you/Wahl got the 10,973,664 number though? The total attendance this year in MLS was 5,468,832.

That incorrect number seems to be double the correct number. Probably just screwed up the number of games.

There were 18 teams this year, each playing 17 home games, which was 306 total games.

306 * 17,872 = 5,468,832

 

[GoFishTN]

MLS passes NBA as third best-attended American sport

per grant wahl: this is badly misleading due to lesser amounts of gamesper game (total):

MLS 17,872 (10,973,664)

NBA 17,323 (21,302,573)

MLB 30,352 (73,451,522)

NFL 66,960 (17,141,859)

Nice to see the gains though

Isn't that the point of using the average attendance instead of the total attendance?

 

[NewlyRetired]

MLS passes NBA as third best-attended American sport

per grant wahl: this is badly misleading due to lesser amounts of gamesper game (total):

MLS 17,872 (10,973,664)

NBA 17,323 (21,302,573)

MLB 30,352 (73,451,522)

NFL 66,960 (17,141,859)

Nice to see the gains though

Isn't that the point of using the average attendance instead of the total attendance?

yes. but the misleading parts have been in the headlines.They have been coming across as saying MLS is now the #3 league in US instead of being very clear in stating that it is only the average attendance that is higher, not the popularity of the league.

I mentioned this in an earlier post, but the average number is nice, but it was the median attendance where MLS just rocked this year. It blew away its previous highest median by ~2000, which is a fantastic achievement. The media won't care because they don't really understand the significance of the median, but attendance nerds like myself and more importantly the business side of MLS realizes how important this achievement was.

There is a slightly better than 50-50 chance that both the median and average will go up again next year.

Some positives for attendance for next year include:

Portland is expanding by 1500

Houston is opening a gorgeous new stadium

Montreal is entering as an expansion side with a strong season ticket base already

Seattle is thinking of expanding (have not yet decided).

 

[NewlyRetired]

Omar Gonzalez was named MLS Defender of the Year.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Good lord, the Revs actually promoted the two people most responsible (outside of the ownership) for the mess on the field. At least they finally tossed Sunil who did nothing for years outside of send a game or two Gillette's way.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Brian Bilello is the new president and Michael Burns the new general manager of the New England Revolution.Wednesday’s moves come 16 days after Steve Nicol was fired following 10 seasons as coach. Bilello said he expects to name a new coach within a week after a season in which the Revolution finished last in the Eastern Conference, going 5-16-13.Bilello spent the past six seasons as chief operating officer of the Revolution, focusing on business operations. In his new position, he’ll also oversee the soccer operations. He succeeds Sunil Gulati.Burns had been vice president of player personnel the past four seasons. Now he’ll handle all aspects of the soccer operations, including coaches and player moves. Burns played for the Revolution when MLS began in 1996.

 

[Charlie Steiner]

I have 'strategy' related question after seeing something at my son's U13 game last night. If I get any terms wrong, be gentle...When lining up to kickoff, the opposing team would put all their forwards and midfielders on the 50. At kickoff, it looked like a mni-jailbreak, as everyone on the line would charge across to different spots across the 50. They never seemed to get the kickoff to any of their teammates, and my son's team usually wound up with the ball and starting an attack going the other way.I haven't seen a lot of soccer but I've never seen an approach like that, and given that this team had only scored 2 goals all season and had given up a ton during the season (including 7 to my son's team last night), I couldn't understand their determination to stick with this tactic.I guess my question is: is this a recognized tactic? I can understand a coach willing to take some losses in the name of teaching something that will pay off in the future, but in the last 2-3 years of watching professional as well as kid's soccer, I've never seen an approach like that before. Any insight is appreciated. TYVM...

Your instincts are good. That is not a recognized tactic in any way shape or form, no matter what age group.Not to be mean to the coach because I am sure the coach is volunteering his/her time and energy which is always commendable in youth sports, but from what you describe it basically sounds like he is in 1967 and never saw a soccer game before in his life.

Thanks for the input. I'm not trying to be mean either, it's just that I didn't play the game growing up and only starting gaining interest because of my son, so I still approach the game like a newbie, meaning I expect some things that are eye-opening to me may be old hat to veterans and I can't tell the difference yet. I thought that since he was so determined to use that same play on every kickoff that he was onto something. FWIW, the league is in the 2nd division of the lowest level of youth soccer in the area. My son has faced teams from the other levels and the difference is amazing. Most of the teams at this level are playing more kickball than soccer, and the play isn't nearly as physical as the higher levels. Also FWIW, I'm really enjoying this thread, lots of good info and passion for the game. Final FWIW, I guess I'm an EPL snob, as I find it hard to watch other leagues. I'm not committed to any one team there at the moment, but I started casually following Newcastle last year when they got promoted, and I casually follow Liverpool now because I like Bellamy's game, which I first noticed when he was at Man City(?). I think I'd like to catch more Bundesliga games, as I also like Arjen Robben's game. DC United is the closest team to where I live but I don't follow them. This thread has helped me better follow the USMNT, and Dempsey is probably my favorite American player.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I have 'strategy' related question after seeing something at my son's U13 game last night. If I get any terms wrong, be gentle...When lining up to kickoff, the opposing team would put all their forwards and midfielders on the 50. At kickoff, it looked like a mni-jailbreak, as everyone on the line would charge across to different spots across the 50. They never seemed to get the kickoff to any of their teammates, and my son's team usually wound up with the ball and starting an attack going the other way.I haven't seen a lot of soccer but I've never seen an approach like that, and given that this team had only scored 2 goals all season and had given up a ton during the season (including 7 to my son's team last night), I couldn't understand their determination to stick with this tactic.I guess my question is: is this a recognized tactic? I can understand a coach willing to take some losses in the name of teaching something that will pay off in the future, but in the last 2-3 years of watching professional as well as kid's soccer, I've never seen an approach like that before. Any insight is appreciated. TYVM...

Your instincts are good. That is not a recognized tactic in any way shape or form, no matter what age group.Not to be mean to the coach because I am sure the coach is volunteering his/her time and energy which is always commendable in youth sports, but from what you describe it basically sounds like he is in 1967 and never saw a soccer game before in his life.

Thanks for the input. I'm not trying to be mean either, it's just that I didn't play the game growing up and only starting gaining interest because of my son, so I still approach the game like a newbie, meaning I expect some things that are eye-opening to me may be old hat to veterans and I can't tell the difference yet. I thought that since he was so determined to use that same play on every kickoff that he was onto something. FWIW, the league is in the 2nd division of the lowest level of youth soccer in the area. My son has faced teams from the other levels and the difference is amazing. Most of the teams at this level are playing more kickball than soccer, and the play isn't nearly as physical as the higher levels. Also FWIW, I'm really enjoying this thread, lots of good info and passion for the game. Final FWIW, I guess I'm an EPL snob, as I find it hard to watch other leagues. I'm not committed to any one team there at the moment, but I started casually following Newcastle last year when they got promoted, and I casually follow Liverpool now because I like Bellamy's game, which I first noticed when he was at Man City(?). I think I'd like to catch more Bundesliga games, as I also like Arjen Robben's game. DC United is the closest team to where I live but I don't follow them. This thread has helped me better follow the USMNT, and Dempsey is probably my favorite American player.

No bag needed. You fit in like a glove here Just post, make comments and ask questions. We have a very wide range of knowledge in the thread which is good because the game is so massive it's much harder to follow than say a single league like the NFL.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I never heard about this.

Ibrahimovic says Onyewu broke his rib in brawl

STOCKHOLM (AP) -- AC Milan forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he broke a rib in a brawl with American defender Oguchi Onyewu that could have "ended badly" had they not been separated by teammates.

In an autobiography sent to The Associated Press on Wednesday, Ibrahimovic says the two players "wanted to destroy each other" in the fight, which started after the hot-tempered Swede launched a dangerous tackle on Onyewu during a training session with Milan on Nov. 5 last year.

"I'm not talking about a small row," Ibrahimovic writes. "It was like life and death."

Once things cooled down the players shook hands and it was only later that Ibrahimovic found out that he had a broken rib.

Staying true to his bad-boy image, Ibrahimovic describes a series of rows with other players and coaches during his career, including an expletive-ridden outburst at Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola.

Ibrahimovic joined Barcelona in 2009 in a $66 million deal that sent Samuel Eto'o to Inter. He scored 16 goals in the Spanish league but often struggled to fit into Barcelona's intricate passing schemes.

The Swede blamed Guardiola for his failure, saying his game suffered when the coach met Lionel Messi's request to play in a more prominent role in the center instead of on the flank.

"It's like you bought a Ferrari and drive it like a Fiat," Ibrahimovic said of his role in the shadow of Messi, whom he praised as a great player.

Ibrahimovic praised Fabio Capello, the current England manager who was his coach at Juventus, and Jose Mourinho, the former Inter Milan coach who is at Real Madrid.

"If Mourinho lights up a room, Guardiola pulls down the curtains," Ibrahimovic says in the book, co-written with Swedish author David Lagercrantz.

Ibrahimovic says he felt like an outcast among the clean cut "school boys" on the Barcelona team and even thought about quitting soccer. Instead he joined AC Milan in 2010, choosing the Italian club over Manchester City.

"City could surely become a great club in a few years. But I was about to turn 29. I didn't have time for long-term plans, and money was never the key thing," he says. "I wanted to go to a team that could be good now, and no club in Europe had a history like Milan."

The 30-year-old forward says his personality was shaped by his Balkan roots and upbringing in a rough immigrant neighborhood of Malmo, in southern Sweden.

Ibrahimovic says his parents split when he was two, and the family struggled with alcohol and drug abuse. He got involved in petty crimes including bicycle theft and shoplifting and says he would probably have ended up a career criminal had he not focused on soccer.

"I was a savage, a lunatic, and I couldn't control my temper," Ibrahimovic says. That remained an issue -- on and off the field -- as he moved from local club Malmo FF to Ajax, and then to Juventus and Inter Milan.

He says he threatened to break Rafael van der Vaart's legs at Ajax and punched Frenchman Jonathan Zebina in the face after a "brutal" tackle during training with Juventus.

He also a shows a rare soft spot, describing the emotion that came over him when Inter's hardcore fans celebrated the birth of his first son, with a banner saying "Welcome Maximilian" in Italian.

"It was so beautiful that I wanted to cry," Ibrahimovic says. "Those fans don't play around. They are tough guys and I would have hard fights with them. But now, what can I say? It was Italy at its best."

 

[Steve Tasker]

I have 'strategy' related question after seeing something at my son's U13 game last night. If I get any terms wrong, be gentle...When lining up to kickoff, the opposing team would put all their forwards and midfielders on the 50. At kickoff, it looked like a mni-jailbreak, as everyone on the line would charge across to different spots across the 50. They never seemed to get the kickoff to any of their teammates, and my son's team usually wound up with the ball and starting an attack going the other way.I haven't seen a lot of soccer but I've never seen an approach like that, and given that this team had only scored 2 goals all season and had given up a ton during the season (including 7 to my son's team last night), I couldn't understand their determination to stick with this tactic.I guess my question is: is this a recognized tactic? I can understand a coach willing to take some losses in the name of teaching something that will pay off in the future, but in the last 2-3 years of watching professional as well as kid's soccer, I've never seen an approach like that before. Any insight is appreciated. TYVM...

Your instincts are good. That is not a recognized tactic in any way shape or form, no matter what age group.Not to be mean to the coach because I am sure the coach is volunteering his/her time and energy which is always commendable in youth sports, but from what you describe it basically sounds like he is in 1967 and never saw a soccer game before in his life.

Thanks for the input. I'm not trying to be mean either, it's just that I didn't play the game growing up and only starting gaining interest because of my son, so I still approach the game like a newbie, meaning I expect some things that are eye-opening to me may be old hat to veterans and I can't tell the difference yet. I thought that since he was so determined to use that same play on every kickoff that he was onto something. FWIW, the league is in the 2nd division of the lowest level of youth soccer in the area. My son has faced teams from the other levels and the difference is amazing. Most of the teams at this level are playing more kickball than soccer, and the play isn't nearly as physical as the higher levels. Also FWIW, I'm really enjoying this thread, lots of good info and passion for the game. Final FWIW, I guess I'm an EPL snob, as I find it hard to watch other leagues. I'm not committed to any one team there at the moment, but I started casually following Newcastle last year when they got promoted, and I casually follow Liverpool now because I like Bellamy's game, which I first noticed when he was at Man City(?). I think I'd like to catch more Bundesliga games, as I also like Arjen Robben's game. DC United is the closest team to where I live but I don't follow them. This thread has helped me better follow the USMNT, and Dempsey is probably my favorite American player.

Should I put you down as a fan of some of those teams in our fans link?

 

[Charlie Steiner]

Should I put you down as a fan of some of those teams in our fans link?

If you like, but I'm following individual players more than teams at this point, except for the USMNT. Waiting to see if any team/rivalry really captures my interest. I'm suprised Newcastle has gotten off to such a good start in just their 2nd season back in the Premier League, but regardless of whether or not they stay there, I may just throw in with them regardless...

 

[El Floppo]

I never heard about this.

Ibrahimovic says Onyewu broke his rib in brawl

STOCKHOLM (AP) -- AC Milan forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he broke a rib in a brawl with American defender Oguchi Onyewu that could have "ended badly" had they not been separated by teammates.

In an autobiography sent to The Associated Press on Wednesday, Ibrahimovic says the two players "wanted to destroy each other" in the fight, which started after the hot-tempered Swede launched a dangerous tackle on Onyewu during a training session with Milan on Nov. 5 last year.

"I'm not talking about a small row," Ibrahimovic writes. "It was like life and death."

Once things cooled down the players shook hands and it was only later that Ibrahimovic found out that he had a broken rib.

Staying true to his bad-boy image, Ibrahimovic describes a series of rows with other players and coaches during his career, including an expletive-ridden outburst at Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola.

Ibrahimovic joined Barcelona in 2009 in a $66 million deal that sent Samuel Eto'o to Inter. He scored 16 goals in the Spanish league but often struggled to fit into Barcelona's intricate passing schemes.

The Swede blamed Guardiola for his failure, saying his game suffered when the coach met Lionel Messi's request to play in a more prominent role in the center instead of on the flank.

"It's like you bought a Ferrari and drive it like a Fiat," Ibrahimovic said of his role in the shadow of Messi, whom he praised as a great player.

Ibrahimovic praised Fabio Capello, the current England manager who was his coach at Juventus, and Jose Mourinho, the former Inter Milan coach who is at Real Madrid.

"If Mourinho lights up a room, Guardiola pulls down the curtains," Ibrahimovic says in the book, co-written with Swedish author David Lagercrantz.

Ibrahimovic says he felt like an outcast among the clean cut "school boys" on the Barcelona team and even thought about quitting soccer. Instead he joined AC Milan in 2010, choosing the Italian club over Manchester City.

"City could surely become a great club in a few years. But I was about to turn 29. I didn't have time for long-term plans, and money was never the key thing," he says. "I wanted to go to a team that could be good now, and no club in Europe had a history like Milan."

The 30-year-old forward says his personality was shaped by his Balkan roots and upbringing in a rough immigrant neighborhood of Malmo, in southern Sweden.

Ibrahimovic says his parents split when he was two, and the family struggled with alcohol and drug abuse. He got involved in petty crimes including bicycle theft and shoplifting and says he would probably have ended up a career criminal had he not focused on soccer.

"I was a savage, a lunatic, and I couldn't control my temper," Ibrahimovic says. That remained an issue -- on and off the field -- as he moved from local club Malmo FF to Ajax, and then to Juventus and Inter Milan.

He says he threatened to break Rafael van der Vaart's legs at Ajax and punched Frenchman Jonathan Zebina in the face after a "brutal" tackle during training with Juventus.

He also a shows a rare soft spot, describing the emotion that came over him when Inter's hardcore fans celebrated the birth of his first son, with a banner saying "Welcome Maximilian" in Italian.

"It was so beautiful that I wanted to cry," Ibrahimovic says. "Those fans don't play around. They are tough guys and I would have hard fights with them. But now, what can I say? It was Italy at its best."

I remember reading about the on and off-field dust-ups with Gooch- but no details. Interesting to hear. Glad Gooch got at least something accomplished during his time at Milan.

 

[Steve Tasker]

Should I put you down as a fan of some of those teams in our fans link?

If you like, but I'm following individual players more than teams at this point, except for the USMNT. Waiting to see if any team/rivalry really captures my interest. I'm suprised Newcastle has gotten off to such a good start in just their 2nd season back in the Premier League, but regardless of whether or not they stay there, I may just throw in with them regardless...

I think it's certainly surprising how well they're doing, but, IMO, it was surprising that they were relegated in the first place. They're not a fringe EPL/Championship team like the Wigan's and Birmingham's of the world - the teams that are destined to cling to the bottom of the EPL/top of the Championship year-in and year-out. Newcastle aren't one of the top teams in England, but they're still one of the best teams in the history of the EPL since its inception, and nearly won it a handful of times. Maybe the guys who've been around the English game a bit longer than I have have a different opinion, but that's my thought as a guy who's been following the English game since the late 90s/early 00s. To me, it was almost like that relegation-year was an anomaly; I consider them to be a better team than the year-in-and-year-out relegation battlers.Regardless, they're having one hell of a season so far.ETA - I won't add you as a fan of those teams, though. If you do decide, just post it here and I'll add it to the post. The post is permanently linked in my sig.

 

[El Floppo]

I have 'strategy' related question after seeing something at my son's U13 game last night. If I get any terms wrong, be gentle...When lining up to kickoff, the opposing team would put all their forwards and midfielders on the 50. At kickoff, it looked like a mni-jailbreak, as everyone on the line would charge across to different spots across the 50. They never seemed to get the kickoff to any of their teammates, and my son's team usually wound up with the ball and starting an attack going the other way.I haven't seen a lot of soccer but I've never seen an approach like that, and given that this team had only scored 2 goals all season and had given up a ton during the season (including 7 to my son's team last night), I couldn't understand their determination to stick with this tactic.I guess my question is: is this a recognized tactic? I can understand a coach willing to take some losses in the name of teaching something that will pay off in the future, but in the last 2-3 years of watching professional as well as kid's soccer, I've never seen an approach like that before. Any insight is appreciated. TYVM...

Your instincts are good. That is not a recognized tactic in any way shape or form, no matter what age group.Not to be mean to the coach because I am sure the coach is volunteering his/her time and energy which is always commendable in youth sports, but from what you describe it basically sounds like he is in 1967 and never saw a soccer game before in his life.

Thanks for the input. I'm not trying to be mean either, it's just that I didn't play the game growing up and only starting gaining interest because of my son, so I still approach the game like a newbie, meaning I expect some things that are eye-opening to me may be old hat to veterans and I can't tell the difference yet. I thought that since he was so determined to use that same play on every kickoff that he was onto something. FWIW, the league is in the 2nd division of the lowest level of youth soccer in the area. My son has faced teams from the other levels and the difference is amazing. Most of the teams at this level are playing more kickball than soccer, and the play isn't nearly as physical as the higher levels. Also FWIW, I'm really enjoying this thread, lots of good info and passion for the game. Final FWIW, I guess I'm an EPL snob, as I find it hard to watch other leagues. I'm not committed to any one team there at the moment, but I started casually following Newcastle last year when they got promoted, and I casually follow Liverpool now because I like Bellamy's game, which I first noticed when he was at Man City(?). I think I'd like to catch more Bundesliga games, as I also like Arjen Robben's game. DC United is the closest team to where I live but I don't follow them. This thread has helped me better follow the USMNT, and Dempsey is probably my favorite American player.

No bag needed. You fit in like a glove here Just post, make comments and ask questions. We have a very wide range of knowledge in the thread which is good because the game is so massive it's much harder to follow than say a single league like the NFL.

Totally agree- no need to feel embarrassed or bag-headed here. Like andy said, there are guys with a wide range of soccer backgrounds and knowledge in here; I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that even as a life-long soccer nerd, I've learned something from every one of them. And best of all, we're lhucks-free for 5+ months.and I'm kind of with you in terms of teams I support- I live and breath with the USMNT, and typically follow club teams with US players on them. Except for my ####### BUllStars and Inter. But do yourself a favor and watch Barcelona play- if you're new to the game, there is just too much to learn and enjoy from seeing them play. Unless they're playing Real Madrid.

 

[Charlie Steiner]

Totally agree- no need to feel embarrassed or bag-headed here. Like andy said, there are guys with a wide range of soccer backgrounds and knowledge in here; I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that even as a life-long soccer nerd, I've learned something from every one of them. And best of all, we're lhucks-free for 5+ months.and I'm kind of with you in terms of teams I support- I live and breath with the USMNT, and typically follow club teams with US players on them. Except for my ####### BUllStars and Inter. But do yourself a favor and watch Barcelona play- if you're new to the game, there is just too much to learn and enjoy from seeing them play. Unless they're playing Real Madrid.

The soccer landscape is so huge it's difficult for me to gather my thoughts about it, but I too am trying to follow as many US players as I can. I'm also trying to get behind MLS but haven't been able to consistently track it. For instance, there was a player for the Vancouver team that caught my attention but then I lost track of him, and now I can't remember who he was, except that he was a forward/striker with a lot of power. I did take notice of Barcelona during last year's Champion's League games. I can't believe how far ahead of the competition they are, and Messi is just amazing to watch. I have a small history with Barcelona; I spent the Fall of '89 semester in Toledo, Spain, and got to take a 4-day weekend trip to Barcelona. I immediately fell in love with the city--the museums, Las Ramblas, all of it, such a difference from Madrid. Anyway, in my ignorance about soccer, I bought a FCB jersey in one of the shops (IIRC, it was #4--Koehman) and wore it around the school in Toledo where I was staying. All the local kids were whooping and hollering at me and I didn't know why, until someone clued me in on the Real Madrid/FC Barcelona rivalry. I lost track of that jersey over the years, I would have loved passing it on to my son now that he's playing more. Maybe you can answer a question on something regarding FCB: it seems to me that Arsenal tries to play the same style, or am I imagining that?

 

[El Floppo]

Totally agree- no need to feel embarrassed or bag-headed here. Like andy said, there are guys with a wide range of soccer backgrounds and knowledge in here; I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that even as a life-long soccer nerd, I've learned something from every one of them. And best of all, we're lhucks-free for 5+ months.and I'm kind of with you in terms of teams I support- I live and breath with the USMNT, and typically follow club teams with US players on them. Except for my ####### BUllStars and Inter. But do yourself a favor and watch Barcelona play- if you're new to the game, there is just too much to learn and enjoy from seeing them play. Unless they're playing Real Madrid.

The soccer landscape is so huge it's difficult for me to gather my thoughts about it, but I too am trying to follow as many US players as I can. I'm also trying to get behind MLS but haven't been able to consistently track it. For instance, there was a player for the Vancouver team that caught my attention but then I lost track of him, and now I can't remember who he was, except that he was a forward/striker with a lot of power. I did take notice of Barcelona during last year's Champion's League games. I can't believe how far ahead of the competition they are, and Messi is just amazing to watch. I have a small history with Barcelona; I spent the Fall of '89 semester in Toledo, Spain, and got to take a 4-day weekend trip to Barcelona. I immediately fell in love with the city--the museums, Las Ramblas, all of it, such a difference from Madrid. Anyway, in my ignorance about soccer, I bought a FCB jersey in one of the shops (IIRC, it was #4--Koehman) and wore it around the school in Toledo where I was staying. All the local kids were whooping and hollering at me and I didn't know why, until someone clued me in on the Real Madrid/FC Barcelona rivalry. I lost track of that jersey over the years, I would have loved passing it on to my son now that he's playing more. Maybe you can answer a question on something regarding FCB: it seems to me that Arsenal tries to play the same style, or am I imagining that?

No- you're dead on. They both play a ball-control game with lots of skilled players all over the field. Much of it falls on the coach (and guy in charge of player management) as to whether they have the commitment to play that style. Guardiola and Wenger (frenchy for Arsenal) have shown that they have that commitment even if it means passing the ball all the way into the goal instead of shooting it and giving up sometimes easy goals because your defense is made up of guys who would normally play in the midfield or attack for other teams.I'm an MLS fan by default really- but it's tough to get really attached now that you can watch the top teams in Europe play on TV on any given day. btw- that vintage Koehman shirt would be incredible... it must be somewhere, right? at your folks' place?and fwiw- there's a website called yanksabroad (or some variation of that) that highlights all the US players playing abroad. That felt idiotic typing it all out after writing the website name.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Fox has been running different versions of this commercial lately. Some parts are over-produced or staged, but overall it seems pretty well done.

https://player.vimeo.com/video/31565602

 

[NewlyRetired]

Fox has been running different versions of this commercial lately. Some parts are over-produced or staged, but overall it seems pretty well done.http://vimeo.com/31565602

Interesting to notice plenty of US images in that montage but no MLS images. Really shows that Fox won't be involved with the league for a while.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Totally agree- no need to feel embarrassed or bag-headed here. Like andy said, there are guys with a wide range of soccer backgrounds and knowledge in here; I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that even as a life-long soccer nerd, I've learned something from every one of them. And best of all, we're lhucks-free for 5+ months.and I'm kind of with you in terms of teams I support- I live and breath with the USMNT, and typically follow club teams with US players on them. Except for my ####### BUllStars and Inter. But do yourself a favor and watch Barcelona play- if you're new to the game, there is just too much to learn and enjoy from seeing them play. Unless they're playing Real Madrid.

The soccer landscape is so huge it's difficult for me to gather my thoughts about it, but I too am trying to follow as many US players as I can. I'm also trying to get behind MLS but haven't been able to consistently track it. For instance, there was a player for the Vancouver team that caught my attention but then I lost track of him, and now I can't remember who he was, except that he was a forward/striker with a lot of power.

The Vancouver player you are thinking of may be Eric Hasli. He scored, IMO, one of the best goals in MLS history this year.

 

[Mjolnirs]

I think I'd like to catch more Bundesliga games, as I also like Arjen Robben's game.

Come on over to the darkside! Sadly Robben has been injured for Bayern and hasn't seen action in a while. To watch more Bundelsiga check out Gol TV and ESPN3.