The US National Team lost for the first time ever in group play at the Gold Cup when they were defeated by the powerhouse that is Panama, on Saturday night. The 2-1 loss is more than just the result, and I believe it marks the end of the Bob Bradley reign as manager of the National team.
If we look back at the last year, we have had the highs of drawing with England in the World Cup, and that great last minute goal by Donovan against Algeria. However, we have also had the lows of losing to Ghana in the round of 16 at the World Cup, and more recently, getting obliterated by Spain and then this loss to Panama. On the surface, you may just think that we are going through a rough patch but that we will get back to the "greatness" that our team was once in South Africa. But how good were we really in South Africa?
We entered the tournament ranked #14 in the world, with the rest of our group ranked as follows: England (8), Slovenia (25), and Algeria (30). While we started the tournament with a good result against the English side, many will argue that we were lucky to get one point. Next up was Slovenia, which we managed a draw against, having to fight back from a 2-0 first half deficit. While we had a goal disallowed that would have given us the 3 points, a draw was probably a fair result. Last up in the group stages was Algeria, a match that we could have easily lost after giving Algeria a few good looks at goal. Yet, Landon Donovan put us into the knockout stages with his dramatic winner in injury time. We won the group, something that no American side has ever done before. But with the under achieving England side, was this that big of a surprise? No. Had LD10 not scored that goal, not only would we have not won the group, but we wouldn't have advanced. Technically, the top 16 teams should advance in the tournament and we were 11 out of 32. Then came Ghana, the 32nd ranked team in the world, and 24 out of 32 (not to mention they didn't even have their best player, Michael Essien). We were beaten all over the field by Ghana, from the start and didn't have enough to beat them as we lost in overtime. So we left the tournament, much earlier than most Americans had hoped, but to me, I wasn't surprised.
We were far from great, and I would say we were very average in the tournament. While most Americans will remember the tournament for Donovan's goal, on the bigger scale, we underachieved. And I blame Bradley's tactics for this.
Going forward, I saw a lot of bright spots in the team, and while the games have been mostly friendlies since the World Cup, the US scheduled games against Brazil, Poland, Columbia, South Africa, Chile, Argentina, Paraguay and Spain. Add the two Gold Cup matches against Canada and Panama and their record has been 2-4-4 (our only two wins to come against South Africa and Canada). These games were an opportunity for Bradley to feature the talent in the American pool combined with the natural leaders already in the team. But we have faltered.
Bradley has yet to pick a team, let alone an entire 23 man squad that I have been satisfied with. His use of players that don't have any business being near the national team (Rogers, Kljestan, Wondo) in big Cup games is embarrassing. His exclusion of Bunbury and Davies from the squad altogether is ridiculous. Davies and Bunbury both had started the 2011 MLS season on a high and this was a perfect opportunity for Bradley to give them a shot on the big stage in the Gold Cup. But he passed on them. He also has included Tim Ream and Clarence Goodson straightaway in the starting lineup, while leaving Onyewu and Bornstein on the bench and shifting Bocanegra out to a wide position, where he has clearly been exposed. I don't know why he still plays Dempsey wide in the midfield, when Dempsey has proven himself as a goalscorer up top in the Premier League.
One other thing I find upsetting is the attitude of the team. Why does it often take us going a goal down to realize that the game has started? I read a stat from Sports Illustrated's Grant Wahl this morning which compared Bradley to former boss Bruce Arena, "Win % in ALL official games as USA coach: Bradley .670 Arena .674. % of games USA allowed the 1st goal: Bradley 39% Arena 26%. Win % in official HOME games as USA coach: Bradley .870 Arena .861. % of home games USA allowed the 1st goal: Bradley 30% Arena 8%." People often criticize Arena for the amount of control he demanded as manager of the team. But the last stat is really what stands out to me. In nearly one-third of all our home games, we concede first. That is unacceptable. I credit that to poor lineup choices by Bradley, as well as the attitude that he obviously is not instilling to the team as they take the pitch. Arena didn't make those mistakes.
Going forward, the US need to look somewhere else. While I believe Jason Kreis will be a future manager of the National Team, he still has a little bit of work to do for that position, but I believe if he keeps on the right track, he is in line for the 2018 World Cup. Klinsmann is the name I want right now. Apparently we were all but signed on Klinsmann to take over after the World Cup, but didn't want to give him full control of the team, and youth development. That is a terrible job by the USSF to not give him the job. If no one was paying attention in 2006, Klinsmann took his Germany side to the semifinals as a host country. We also forget that the all controlling Bruce Arena took the Americans to their best ever finish in the World Cup in 2002, taking us to the quarterfinals where we controversially lost 1-0 to the Germans. We need a big name to take over the team and build a new attitude with the boys.
I believe we will recover a bit from this Panama loss to beat Guadalupe and make it to the knockout round of the Gold Cup, but that doesn't solve our long term problems with this team. If we are to win the Gold Cup, we will have to go through Mexico, who right now, look like one of the most powerful teams in the world. At this rate, I'd rather go out before we had to face them and get embarrassed like did 2 years ago. And on a bigger stage, if we want to challenge for the 2014 World Cup, we have a long way to go, and why not make the changes now so that we can have time to adjust before World Cup qualifying begins.
But I'll always stick by my country, through thick and thin. Don't tread on me.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Thursday, June 9, 2011
A Downright Ugly Performance
Following their 2-0 victory against the Vancouver Whitecaps, RSL began a 2 game road trip with stops in Columbus on Wednesday night and Philadelphia on Saturday afternoon. With many players gone due to Gold Cup assignments (Sabo, Alvarez, Johnson) and still some players out with injury (Paolo Jr, Morales), this trip seemed to be a good time for RSL to prove they have the depth that is necessary to succeed in this league.
Wednesday marked a rematch of the CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinals that took place earlier this year. In that matchup, the game in Columbus was very cold and snowy, and both teams fought with the elements, as well as a frozen pitch, and battled to a 0-0 draw. This time around, the temperature was about 85 degrees, with a humidity level of 80% (at kickoff). There was much talk about how RSL would deal with the heat, having only had 3 days of full rest since their last game. Whether it was the weather, or the short week, or likely a combination of both, RSL didn't seem up to it for the 90 minutes.
Salt Lake came out firing in the first 15 minutes, and was able to get an early goal from Jamison Olave, off a corner. It was a bit of a sloppy goal, but they all count the same. I would have like to see RSL push forward at this point and get another goal before halftime, in order to have that chance to close up shop in the second half and get the points. However, after the goal, RSL couldn't seem to play with the tenacity and precision that they normally do so. Our midfielders were making careless passes, which led to a few chances on the break for the Crew, none of which they could capitalize from. Our forwards were not getting much support from the midfield behind them, and ended up trying to take on a few Columbus players on their own, which usually ended in long shots or lost possession up front. Although we didn't play our best in the first half, luckily Columbus didn't either and the half ended 1-0 to the good.
The second half was just as bad as the last 30 minutes of the first half. RSL could not keep possession of the ball, and the Crew looked to press on for the equalizing goal. After another giveaway in the midfield, the Crew broke into the box, yet Olave seemed to make a good tackle to stop the attack. The ball was not cleared, and Josh Meram took a touch past Olave, only to draw a foul and a penalty. There was a bit of a debate on the penalty, but in my honest opinion, I didn't see anything wrong with the call. While Olave didn't get much of Meram, he got plenty to constitute a foul. After a little bit of a debate between Chad Marshall, Jeff Cunningham and Andres Mendoza about who was going to take the kick, Mendoza drilled it in the top corner. At this point, I had a bad feeling about the rest of the game, and as it would show, the Crew would later get the winner on a deflected shot by Josh Gardner.
The loss is the obvious talking point of this game, but one thing I found very interesting were the substitutions by RSL in the second half. Although we were not playing our greatest football in the second half, as I have previously mentioned, I found it interesting that we brought on Gil in the 60th minute. I know we have this big game on Saturday as well, and maybe Kreis wanted to preserve some of the guys, as much as he could, for the game against the Union. We weren't playing great, but we also seemed to be comfortable on the defensive side of the ball. Pulling out Nelson Gonzalez, and then only 6 minutes later taking out Colleen Warner, for Luis Gil and Andy Williams seemed like a big miss to me. Had the scoreline been 1-1 or even 1-0 down, I think those subs would have been productive, but those two players aren't great defensive players, and that is maybe what we needed on the pitch. Then, having brought on Robbie Russell for Jean Alexandre at 1-1, there were no subs to be made after the Crew scored the winner.
Overall, we didn't deserve the 3 points and I don't think we even deserved 1 point based on our performance. Some of the small things seem to be catching up with us with our depleted squad. However, I will always stick by our team and our manager so hopefully this will give us a little kick for Saturday's game against the Union. I'm Salt Lake 'til I die...
Wednesday marked a rematch of the CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinals that took place earlier this year. In that matchup, the game in Columbus was very cold and snowy, and both teams fought with the elements, as well as a frozen pitch, and battled to a 0-0 draw. This time around, the temperature was about 85 degrees, with a humidity level of 80% (at kickoff). There was much talk about how RSL would deal with the heat, having only had 3 days of full rest since their last game. Whether it was the weather, or the short week, or likely a combination of both, RSL didn't seem up to it for the 90 minutes.
Salt Lake came out firing in the first 15 minutes, and was able to get an early goal from Jamison Olave, off a corner. It was a bit of a sloppy goal, but they all count the same. I would have like to see RSL push forward at this point and get another goal before halftime, in order to have that chance to close up shop in the second half and get the points. However, after the goal, RSL couldn't seem to play with the tenacity and precision that they normally do so. Our midfielders were making careless passes, which led to a few chances on the break for the Crew, none of which they could capitalize from. Our forwards were not getting much support from the midfield behind them, and ended up trying to take on a few Columbus players on their own, which usually ended in long shots or lost possession up front. Although we didn't play our best in the first half, luckily Columbus didn't either and the half ended 1-0 to the good.
The second half was just as bad as the last 30 minutes of the first half. RSL could not keep possession of the ball, and the Crew looked to press on for the equalizing goal. After another giveaway in the midfield, the Crew broke into the box, yet Olave seemed to make a good tackle to stop the attack. The ball was not cleared, and Josh Meram took a touch past Olave, only to draw a foul and a penalty. There was a bit of a debate on the penalty, but in my honest opinion, I didn't see anything wrong with the call. While Olave didn't get much of Meram, he got plenty to constitute a foul. After a little bit of a debate between Chad Marshall, Jeff Cunningham and Andres Mendoza about who was going to take the kick, Mendoza drilled it in the top corner. At this point, I had a bad feeling about the rest of the game, and as it would show, the Crew would later get the winner on a deflected shot by Josh Gardner.
The loss is the obvious talking point of this game, but one thing I found very interesting were the substitutions by RSL in the second half. Although we were not playing our greatest football in the second half, as I have previously mentioned, I found it interesting that we brought on Gil in the 60th minute. I know we have this big game on Saturday as well, and maybe Kreis wanted to preserve some of the guys, as much as he could, for the game against the Union. We weren't playing great, but we also seemed to be comfortable on the defensive side of the ball. Pulling out Nelson Gonzalez, and then only 6 minutes later taking out Colleen Warner, for Luis Gil and Andy Williams seemed like a big miss to me. Had the scoreline been 1-1 or even 1-0 down, I think those subs would have been productive, but those two players aren't great defensive players, and that is maybe what we needed on the pitch. Then, having brought on Robbie Russell for Jean Alexandre at 1-1, there were no subs to be made after the Crew scored the winner.
Overall, we didn't deserve the 3 points and I don't think we even deserved 1 point based on our performance. Some of the small things seem to be catching up with us with our depleted squad. However, I will always stick by our team and our manager so hopefully this will give us a little kick for Saturday's game against the Union. I'm Salt Lake 'til I die...
Friday, June 3, 2011
"All Good Things Must Come To An End...."
4-0-0 in league play. Top of the table. 2-2 aggregate in the Champions League Final coming home to the RioT. A trip to the Club World Cup just 90 minutes away. Unbeaten at home in what seemed like an eternity. It could not have been a better start to the season for RSL, and many analysts were already calling this team, "The Best MLS team of All Time". Then the unthinkable happened.
RSL lost 1-0 to Monterrey in the second leg of the Final. In a game that truly demonstrated the "smash and grab" aspect of soccer, RSL dominated possession but could not find the net. Monterrey did not have many chances but all they needed was the one. Naturally, after such a high, we all knew there was going to be a let down, and RSL had to travel to Portland to take on the Timbers just 3 days later. In what ended up being a game that was very similar to that of the Champions League Final, RSL again lost 1-0. It was time for RSL to figure out their problems and get back on the right track, and there was no better way to do so but against Chivas at home, the following week.
Chivas had been struggling a bit, and looked very susceptible to concede lots of goals. It got even worse for RSL, when Javier Morales, arguably the best player in the league, went down with a horrific ankle injury, in the first half against Chivas. Although RSL ended up getting the win, with a late goal from Will Johnson, this game really seemed like a loss. How would RSL respond to losing their best player to a scary injury, likely to sideline him for the remainder of the regular season? Since that game, RSL has two 0-0 ties (vs Houston, @ Dallas) and a 2-1 loss (vs Seattle). Their only goal came at the very end of their home defeat to Seattle last weekend.
It is obvious that our goal scoring has been down this year, as well as our creativity in the midfield since Morales went out with injury. However, I feel like the biggest hindrance to our success at the moment, is the home unbeaten streak, which was halted by Seattle with that 2-1 loss. You can say what you want about our "fortress" that is the RioT and how great we play there. But I would much rather our team go for a few games and take a loss or two, if it means picking up 3 points in 4 or 5 other games, than sit back and preserve a draw. We set the record for longest unbeaten streak in the league back at the tail end of last season, and I understand that we struggled a bit to get past the record, but once we get by that, it shouldn't be giving us trouble anymore. We should be able to play that free flowing game that put us in the positions we were just about 6 weeks ago. Let's drop the "fortress" tag to the RioT, let's quit the promotional videos, and let's start to get the points we need to get back on top of the league.
One other thing, let's give our young kids a shot. If you know me, you know I am one of Bomma's biggest fans, and I always thought Grabavoy and Johnson were key to our successful run back in 2009. However, all 3 of them need to be given some time off to calm themselves and regroup after that first part of the season. They have had a lot of pressure to fill the void of Morales but have struggled to do so. We have the deepest team in the MLS, and now it is time to show it. Let's bring on Warner, Gonzalez and Gil in our game this weekend against a struggling Whitecaps side. I think Beckerman has done extremely well so far in his typical holding midfield position, and I think his experience will help these young players excel. Look what these guys did just last week against Seattle: Gonzalez came on late and scored a goal, and Gil looked extremely confident for the 6 or 7 minutes he was on the pitch. Gil recently returned from National Team duty, and was said to be "the best player on the pitch for both matches" by the head coach. This weekend is the perfect opportunity to play Gil up the middle with Warner on one side, and Gonzalez on the other.
RSL fans, there is no need to panic. Yes, we are 12 points back of the league leading LA Galaxy, but we also have 6 games in hand (they have played 15 and we have only played 9). We may not get all 18 points out of those 6 games, but I wouldn't be surprised it we get at least 12. There is still 25 games left in the season, and with the Open Cup to start this summer, there are potentially some great achievements still in store for RSL in 2011.
I'm Salt Lake 'til I die...
RSL lost 1-0 to Monterrey in the second leg of the Final. In a game that truly demonstrated the "smash and grab" aspect of soccer, RSL dominated possession but could not find the net. Monterrey did not have many chances but all they needed was the one. Naturally, after such a high, we all knew there was going to be a let down, and RSL had to travel to Portland to take on the Timbers just 3 days later. In what ended up being a game that was very similar to that of the Champions League Final, RSL again lost 1-0. It was time for RSL to figure out their problems and get back on the right track, and there was no better way to do so but against Chivas at home, the following week.
Chivas had been struggling a bit, and looked very susceptible to concede lots of goals. It got even worse for RSL, when Javier Morales, arguably the best player in the league, went down with a horrific ankle injury, in the first half against Chivas. Although RSL ended up getting the win, with a late goal from Will Johnson, this game really seemed like a loss. How would RSL respond to losing their best player to a scary injury, likely to sideline him for the remainder of the regular season? Since that game, RSL has two 0-0 ties (vs Houston, @ Dallas) and a 2-1 loss (vs Seattle). Their only goal came at the very end of their home defeat to Seattle last weekend.
It is obvious that our goal scoring has been down this year, as well as our creativity in the midfield since Morales went out with injury. However, I feel like the biggest hindrance to our success at the moment, is the home unbeaten streak, which was halted by Seattle with that 2-1 loss. You can say what you want about our "fortress" that is the RioT and how great we play there. But I would much rather our team go for a few games and take a loss or two, if it means picking up 3 points in 4 or 5 other games, than sit back and preserve a draw. We set the record for longest unbeaten streak in the league back at the tail end of last season, and I understand that we struggled a bit to get past the record, but once we get by that, it shouldn't be giving us trouble anymore. We should be able to play that free flowing game that put us in the positions we were just about 6 weeks ago. Let's drop the "fortress" tag to the RioT, let's quit the promotional videos, and let's start to get the points we need to get back on top of the league.
One other thing, let's give our young kids a shot. If you know me, you know I am one of Bomma's biggest fans, and I always thought Grabavoy and Johnson were key to our successful run back in 2009. However, all 3 of them need to be given some time off to calm themselves and regroup after that first part of the season. They have had a lot of pressure to fill the void of Morales but have struggled to do so. We have the deepest team in the MLS, and now it is time to show it. Let's bring on Warner, Gonzalez and Gil in our game this weekend against a struggling Whitecaps side. I think Beckerman has done extremely well so far in his typical holding midfield position, and I think his experience will help these young players excel. Look what these guys did just last week against Seattle: Gonzalez came on late and scored a goal, and Gil looked extremely confident for the 6 or 7 minutes he was on the pitch. Gil recently returned from National Team duty, and was said to be "the best player on the pitch for both matches" by the head coach. This weekend is the perfect opportunity to play Gil up the middle with Warner on one side, and Gonzalez on the other.
RSL fans, there is no need to panic. Yes, we are 12 points back of the league leading LA Galaxy, but we also have 6 games in hand (they have played 15 and we have only played 9). We may not get all 18 points out of those 6 games, but I wouldn't be surprised it we get at least 12. There is still 25 games left in the season, and with the Open Cup to start this summer, there are potentially some great achievements still in store for RSL in 2011.
I'm Salt Lake 'til I die...
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Champions League Final Preview - Manchester United
After a long season in Europe, we've had many teams reach new heights, as we saw Manchester City claim the FA Cup in England for their first trophy in 35 years and saw Lille win the French title for the first time in over 50 years. We also saw some teams return to familiar successes, as Milan triumphed in Italy once again for the 18th time, but for the first since 2004. Yet, there is still one game to be played that will be a defining game in the history for the season, and the two clubs involved.
The Champions League Final. The best of the best. The biggest game in world sport. Not only is it bigger than any Super Bowl, but it also is filled with more stars than a World Cup Final. Wembley Stadium will have the attention of those all around the world as Manchester United take on Barcelona this Saturday. Two teams, both looking to leave their imprint on history, will fight it out in what could be the most anticipated final in recent memory.
Manchester United overtook Liverpool as the most successful English club in history, with their 19th English league title. They held off the title charges of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City to do so. They did so with the help of the golden boot winner that only started 4 games in the league after Christmas, a £7 million scoring machine, a 40 year old goalkeeper and a midfield maestro in his 20th year with the first team. Yet, they feel like the biggest achievement is yet to come this season. This is how I see the team coming out:
Goalkeeper:
Edwin Van der Sar - He will be playing his last game in a United jersey, as the 40 year old Dutchman is set to retire following this season. He has been one of United's best players this season, making saves that goalkeepers can only dream about. He has been the rock at the back of the United defense all season. Dealing with family issues off the field has been a concern to Edwin, as his wife has struggled with illness, yet he has been able to succeed beyond imagination to help United to the Champions League Final. He will be key to United's success at Wembley, and will do all he can to keep the likes of the Barcelona greats out of the United net.
Defenders:
Rafael da Silva - I think Rafael should start as United's right back, if he is fit enough to do so. He has shut down the likes of Torres, Anelka, Bale and Van der Vaart in England all season, and I don't see any reason why he wouldn't add Villa or Messi to that list. He is a very quick player and has gained the experience this year to solidify this position for years to come.
Nemanja Vidic - If it weren't for Messi and Ronaldo's unbelievable scoring records this season, I would say Vidic should be World Player of the Year. He has taken the armband this season for United, and been unbelievable this season in that role. He has been more calm than in previous seasons, but still has the desire and strength at the back to give any forward a rough go. He also has the ability to score off of set plays as demonstrated in his winning goal vs Chelsea this season.
Rio Ferdinand - Although Rio has been criticized over the last couple years for being injury plagued or not good enough to play for United anymore, he has re-established himself in this team for the big games and I expect he and Vidic to be strong at the back together. His desire is demonstrated all over the back line and he is a great leader in this team.
Patrice Evra - In my opinion, Patrice is the best left back in the world. No one has the pace that he does to get up with the midfielders but also defend with the ability the he does. His crossing ability will be important and although Barcelona do not have many weak links, their right back position, has not been the best this season. It will be important that once United win the ball, Evra get involved in the attack to create chances for those up front.
Midfielders:
Antonio Valencia - Many thought Valencia's season could be over when he suffered severe ligament damage and a fractured ankle and was forced into immediate surgery to repair those injuries. However, he recovered very quickly and has been a much needed spark to United's end of season form. His crossing ability is unmatched in England, and he has the pace to beat any defender in a foot race. He also has the mentality and focus to defend, when needed, and this is the area in which I feel he gets the nod over Nani to start at Wembley.
Michael Carrick - Probably the most criticized United player since he was bought from Tottenham a few years back, Carrick has had by far his best season in a United shirt. His passing ability, but also his ability to plug up the middle will be very important against Barcelona. I expect him to play much more of a defending role in the midfield to stop the progress of Xavi and Iniesta, as well as their connections with Messi, Pedro and Villa up top. With the help of the two center backs, Carrick will be one of United's most important players on Saturday.
Ryan Giggs - What is there to say about a guy that has played 20 years for the United first team? A guy that has won a record 12 Premier League titles, and yet was one of the best players in England, again. He may be the greatest ever to play in a United shirt. Nearly 900 appearances, and he is still going strong. His experience will be needed out on the pitch against Barcelona. He will look to win the ball off the Barcelona midfield, but as chances may be limited, he will combine with Rooney and the other United midfielders to take advantage of any Barcelona slip ups. His pace, at age 37, is remarkable and he will play a key role as he looks for his 3rd European Cup.
Ji-Sung Park - The energizer bunny of the team, Park seems to be running for 90 minutes, and never gets tired. His performance against Chelsea in the league, just two weeks ago, will be seen as one of the best in his career. He was always involved in tackles around the pitch, the first to the ball in nearly every circumstance and his ability to make some unbelievable passes was also shown, as United took the points that day. If they want to do the same against Barcelona, United will look to Park to get into the Barcelona midfield and disrupt Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets as they look to break down the United midfield. Park's energy will be important but he has also been known to score some big time goals in recent years (Liverpool, AC Milan, Arsenal, Chelsea) and could prove to have the decisive touch, come Saturday night.
Forwards:
Wayne Rooney - After a very slow start to the season, and the controversy about whether he would stay or go, to Manchester City of all teams, Rooney has found the form that United has been searching for, to help this team to the Final. Rio Ferdinand recently said, "We won the league the day that Rooney signed his new contract." He is so vital to this team, and although he has been a striker in the past, Wayne has found a new role in the team as somewhat of a withdrawn forward. I see him playing this same role on Saturday, in attempt to plug the Barcelona midfield as much as possible, but also as a quick link going forward with the United midfield, as soon as they win the ball.
Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez - Having been signed from Chivas for a whopping £7 million last summer, Chicharito was seen as a player to play much of this season in the Reserve team, hoping to adapt to England and the style of this game, with the chance of playing a few games. However, he has burst onto the scene in flying form and has 20 goals in all competitions. His finishing ability is second to none at the club and seems to have a nose for goal that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer once possessed for the club. At only 22 years, he has a long way to go, but this game is by far the biggest of his career. His humility and love for the team has set him on the right path at this great club. Puyol and Pique will have a hard time keeping him under wraps at Wembley.
The Bench:
Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Owen, Thomas Kuszczak, Chris Smalling, Nani, Paul Scholes, Anderson - I see a very attack oriented bench in case we have to chase the game late on against Barcelona. Those not included that may be on the bench come Saturday are Fabio da Silva, Darren Fletcher, Johnny Evans, or John O'Shea.
The Manager:
Sir Alex Ferguson - There is not much to say about Sir Alex, that hasn't been said somewhere else. But, he is the greatest manager of all time. Over 35 trophies with United, including 2 European Cups (1999, 2008). He is the master of getting the best out of a team. Many people have said that this United team "is the worst United team in recent memory," or that they "lack the firepower to win anything." Well, they won the record 19th title, and they are in the European Cup Final. Most of this can be attributed to the manager. There are none better than him, and he will have the tough task of fielding a team against this Barcelona side, "possibly the greatest football team of all time."
What an occasion it will be on Saturday, at Wembley. Manchester United, looking to claim the European Cup for the 4th time, 42 years after they did so at Wembley with the likes of Best, Charlton and Law. This United side looks to go down in the record books.
The Champions League Final. The best of the best. The biggest game in world sport. Not only is it bigger than any Super Bowl, but it also is filled with more stars than a World Cup Final. Wembley Stadium will have the attention of those all around the world as Manchester United take on Barcelona this Saturday. Two teams, both looking to leave their imprint on history, will fight it out in what could be the most anticipated final in recent memory.
Manchester United overtook Liverpool as the most successful English club in history, with their 19th English league title. They held off the title charges of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City to do so. They did so with the help of the golden boot winner that only started 4 games in the league after Christmas, a £7 million scoring machine, a 40 year old goalkeeper and a midfield maestro in his 20th year with the first team. Yet, they feel like the biggest achievement is yet to come this season. This is how I see the team coming out:
Goalkeeper:
Edwin Van der Sar - He will be playing his last game in a United jersey, as the 40 year old Dutchman is set to retire following this season. He has been one of United's best players this season, making saves that goalkeepers can only dream about. He has been the rock at the back of the United defense all season. Dealing with family issues off the field has been a concern to Edwin, as his wife has struggled with illness, yet he has been able to succeed beyond imagination to help United to the Champions League Final. He will be key to United's success at Wembley, and will do all he can to keep the likes of the Barcelona greats out of the United net.
Defenders:
Rafael da Silva - I think Rafael should start as United's right back, if he is fit enough to do so. He has shut down the likes of Torres, Anelka, Bale and Van der Vaart in England all season, and I don't see any reason why he wouldn't add Villa or Messi to that list. He is a very quick player and has gained the experience this year to solidify this position for years to come.
Nemanja Vidic - If it weren't for Messi and Ronaldo's unbelievable scoring records this season, I would say Vidic should be World Player of the Year. He has taken the armband this season for United, and been unbelievable this season in that role. He has been more calm than in previous seasons, but still has the desire and strength at the back to give any forward a rough go. He also has the ability to score off of set plays as demonstrated in his winning goal vs Chelsea this season.
Rio Ferdinand - Although Rio has been criticized over the last couple years for being injury plagued or not good enough to play for United anymore, he has re-established himself in this team for the big games and I expect he and Vidic to be strong at the back together. His desire is demonstrated all over the back line and he is a great leader in this team.
Patrice Evra - In my opinion, Patrice is the best left back in the world. No one has the pace that he does to get up with the midfielders but also defend with the ability the he does. His crossing ability will be important and although Barcelona do not have many weak links, their right back position, has not been the best this season. It will be important that once United win the ball, Evra get involved in the attack to create chances for those up front.
Midfielders:
Antonio Valencia - Many thought Valencia's season could be over when he suffered severe ligament damage and a fractured ankle and was forced into immediate surgery to repair those injuries. However, he recovered very quickly and has been a much needed spark to United's end of season form. His crossing ability is unmatched in England, and he has the pace to beat any defender in a foot race. He also has the mentality and focus to defend, when needed, and this is the area in which I feel he gets the nod over Nani to start at Wembley.
Michael Carrick - Probably the most criticized United player since he was bought from Tottenham a few years back, Carrick has had by far his best season in a United shirt. His passing ability, but also his ability to plug up the middle will be very important against Barcelona. I expect him to play much more of a defending role in the midfield to stop the progress of Xavi and Iniesta, as well as their connections with Messi, Pedro and Villa up top. With the help of the two center backs, Carrick will be one of United's most important players on Saturday.
Ryan Giggs - What is there to say about a guy that has played 20 years for the United first team? A guy that has won a record 12 Premier League titles, and yet was one of the best players in England, again. He may be the greatest ever to play in a United shirt. Nearly 900 appearances, and he is still going strong. His experience will be needed out on the pitch against Barcelona. He will look to win the ball off the Barcelona midfield, but as chances may be limited, he will combine with Rooney and the other United midfielders to take advantage of any Barcelona slip ups. His pace, at age 37, is remarkable and he will play a key role as he looks for his 3rd European Cup.
Ji-Sung Park - The energizer bunny of the team, Park seems to be running for 90 minutes, and never gets tired. His performance against Chelsea in the league, just two weeks ago, will be seen as one of the best in his career. He was always involved in tackles around the pitch, the first to the ball in nearly every circumstance and his ability to make some unbelievable passes was also shown, as United took the points that day. If they want to do the same against Barcelona, United will look to Park to get into the Barcelona midfield and disrupt Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets as they look to break down the United midfield. Park's energy will be important but he has also been known to score some big time goals in recent years (Liverpool, AC Milan, Arsenal, Chelsea) and could prove to have the decisive touch, come Saturday night.
Forwards:
Wayne Rooney - After a very slow start to the season, and the controversy about whether he would stay or go, to Manchester City of all teams, Rooney has found the form that United has been searching for, to help this team to the Final. Rio Ferdinand recently said, "We won the league the day that Rooney signed his new contract." He is so vital to this team, and although he has been a striker in the past, Wayne has found a new role in the team as somewhat of a withdrawn forward. I see him playing this same role on Saturday, in attempt to plug the Barcelona midfield as much as possible, but also as a quick link going forward with the United midfield, as soon as they win the ball.
Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez - Having been signed from Chivas for a whopping £7 million last summer, Chicharito was seen as a player to play much of this season in the Reserve team, hoping to adapt to England and the style of this game, with the chance of playing a few games. However, he has burst onto the scene in flying form and has 20 goals in all competitions. His finishing ability is second to none at the club and seems to have a nose for goal that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer once possessed for the club. At only 22 years, he has a long way to go, but this game is by far the biggest of his career. His humility and love for the team has set him on the right path at this great club. Puyol and Pique will have a hard time keeping him under wraps at Wembley.
The Bench:
Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Owen, Thomas Kuszczak, Chris Smalling, Nani, Paul Scholes, Anderson - I see a very attack oriented bench in case we have to chase the game late on against Barcelona. Those not included that may be on the bench come Saturday are Fabio da Silva, Darren Fletcher, Johnny Evans, or John O'Shea.
The Manager:
Sir Alex Ferguson - There is not much to say about Sir Alex, that hasn't been said somewhere else. But, he is the greatest manager of all time. Over 35 trophies with United, including 2 European Cups (1999, 2008). He is the master of getting the best out of a team. Many people have said that this United team "is the worst United team in recent memory," or that they "lack the firepower to win anything." Well, they won the record 19th title, and they are in the European Cup Final. Most of this can be attributed to the manager. There are none better than him, and he will have the tough task of fielding a team against this Barcelona side, "possibly the greatest football team of all time."
What an occasion it will be on Saturday, at Wembley. Manchester United, looking to claim the European Cup for the 4th time, 42 years after they did so at Wembley with the likes of Best, Charlton and Law. This United side looks to go down in the record books.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Champions League Returns!!!! The Knockout Stages!!!
So today marks the first knockout matches of the Champions League. They are two-legged ties, each team with the chance to play at home. UEFA has spread out the games a little bit more this year, opting to play this round with 2 games a day for 2 weeks, then have the return legs on the same schedule. Here are my predictions (my picks in bold):
Tottenham vs AC Milan
Valencia vs Schalke
Arsenal vs Barcelona
Roma vs Shaktar Donetsk
Copenhagen vs Chelsea
Lyon vs Real Madrid
Inter Milan vs Bayern Munich
Marseille vs Manchester United
I don't see too many upsets in this round. I think Barca will struggle more with Arsenal than most people think. I will pick a 4-3 aggregate score for that tie, but Barcelona to go through.
I think AC Milan will "upset" Tottenham, but really this shouldn't be considered an upset. Milan got second in the group, but I think they will batter Spurs at home today and then hold on in the second leg at White Hart Lane.
Some of the other ties that are interesting are Roma vs Shaktar and Lyon vs Real Madrid. Especially since Madrid was knocked out of the CL in this stage for the last 6 seasons, and last year at this stage by Lyon. Hopefully CR7 can carry his team into the next round.
Inter Milan and Bayern Munich is a rematch of last year's final but I don't see Inter having too much trouble with this. I will say 4-2 over the two legs, and expect Eto'o to play a big role.
I obviously hope Manchester United don't have any trouble, but its important that they (and Chelsea in their tie) have a solid performance in the first leg on the road, to guarantee their move into the last 8.
Tottenham vs AC Milan
Valencia vs Schalke
Arsenal vs Barcelona
Roma vs Shaktar Donetsk
Copenhagen vs Chelsea
Lyon vs Real Madrid
Inter Milan vs Bayern Munich
Marseille vs Manchester United
I don't see too many upsets in this round. I think Barca will struggle more with Arsenal than most people think. I will pick a 4-3 aggregate score for that tie, but Barcelona to go through.
I think AC Milan will "upset" Tottenham, but really this shouldn't be considered an upset. Milan got second in the group, but I think they will batter Spurs at home today and then hold on in the second leg at White Hart Lane.
Some of the other ties that are interesting are Roma vs Shaktar and Lyon vs Real Madrid. Especially since Madrid was knocked out of the CL in this stage for the last 6 seasons, and last year at this stage by Lyon. Hopefully CR7 can carry his team into the next round.
Inter Milan and Bayern Munich is a rematch of last year's final but I don't see Inter having too much trouble with this. I will say 4-2 over the two legs, and expect Eto'o to play a big role.
I obviously hope Manchester United don't have any trouble, but its important that they (and Chelsea in their tie) have a solid performance in the first leg on the road, to guarantee their move into the last 8.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
I Know the Score - January 15/16
After going a measly +15 in my last week of IKTS, another weekend brings another chance to gain some ground on the rest of my league. For the predictions this week, I have the following:
Chelsea 3 Blackburn 1 (Banker)
Manchester City 2 Wolves 1
Stoke City 1 Bolton 2
West Brom 1 Blackpool 1
Wigan 1 Fulham 1
West Ham 2 Arsenal 1
Birmingham 2 Aston Villa 2
Sunderland 2 Newcastle 0
Liverpool 2 Everton 1
Tottenham 1 Manchester United 3 (Insurance)
To throw in a few extra games I will make my picks for the NFL Divisional Round:
Baltimore Ravens 13 Pittsburgh Steelers 24
Green Bay Packers 27 Atlanta Falcons 21
Seattle Seahawks 17 Chicago Bears 31
New York Jets 13 New England Patriots 28
Until next week....
Chelsea 3 Blackburn 1 (Banker)
Manchester City 2 Wolves 1
Stoke City 1 Bolton 2
West Brom 1 Blackpool 1
Wigan 1 Fulham 1
West Ham 2 Arsenal 1
Birmingham 2 Aston Villa 2
Sunderland 2 Newcastle 0
Liverpool 2 Everton 1
Tottenham 1 Manchester United 3 (Insurance)
To throw in a few extra games I will make my picks for the NFL Divisional Round:
Baltimore Ravens 13 Pittsburgh Steelers 24
Green Bay Packers 27 Atlanta Falcons 21
Seattle Seahawks 17 Chicago Bears 31
New York Jets 13 New England Patriots 28
Until next week....
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
I Know the Score - January 4-5, 2011
So I decided to start posting my picks from I Know the Score for each premier league game to show how good (or bad) I do each week. For those of you that don't know what I Know the Score is, it's a free prediction game on www.premierleague.com that you pick the score of each game and get points based on how your prediction matches up against the actual score. Here is how the scoring works:
Correct Score: 30 points
Correct Draw: 20 points
Correct Goal Difference: 15 points
Correct Outcome: 10 points
Wrong Outcome: -10 points
You also have a banker bonus that you can place on any game that gives you either a x2 or x3 multiplier, depending on the difficulty of the pick. However, this can hurt you if you make a wrong pick, and you can get as much as -30 on a game if you pick the banker and get it wrong, but can also get as much as +90 if you pick the banker and get it right. There is also an insurance marker that protects you from any negative points on a match if you were to pick it wrong. Here are my picks for Gameweek 22:
Tuesday, February 4th
Blackpool 2 Birmingham 1
Fulham 1 West Brom 1
Manchester United 3 Stoke City 0 (Banker x2)
Wednesday, February 5th
Arsenal 2 Manchester City 2
Aston Villa 1 Sunderland 2
Newcastle 2 West Ham 0
Wolves 1 Chelsea 1 (Insurance)
Blackburn 1 Liverpool 1
Bolton 2 Wigan 0
Everton 1 Tottenham 1
So far, I am +310 on the season, which is about mid-table in both of the leagues (having missed the first two weeks of the season). Until next gameweek...
Correct Score: 30 points
Correct Draw: 20 points
Correct Goal Difference: 15 points
Correct Outcome: 10 points
Wrong Outcome: -10 points
You also have a banker bonus that you can place on any game that gives you either a x2 or x3 multiplier, depending on the difficulty of the pick. However, this can hurt you if you make a wrong pick, and you can get as much as -30 on a game if you pick the banker and get it wrong, but can also get as much as +90 if you pick the banker and get it right. There is also an insurance marker that protects you from any negative points on a match if you were to pick it wrong. Here are my picks for Gameweek 22:
Tuesday, February 4th
Blackpool 2 Birmingham 1
Fulham 1 West Brom 1
Manchester United 3 Stoke City 0 (Banker x2)
Wednesday, February 5th
Arsenal 2 Manchester City 2
Aston Villa 1 Sunderland 2
Newcastle 2 West Ham 0
Wolves 1 Chelsea 1 (Insurance)
Blackburn 1 Liverpool 1
Bolton 2 Wigan 0
Everton 1 Tottenham 1
So far, I am +310 on the season, which is about mid-table in both of the leagues (having missed the first two weeks of the season). Until next gameweek...
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