LA Confidential part-two, The Boogie Team; Sounders vs Galaxy

4 08 2012

“Sometimes you just have a boogie team, you know, a team that just, for some reason, it just doesn’t work for you. And right now, they’re that team for us. I think they know that in their locker room.” 

Sigi Schmid, after 2010 season opening loss, 1-nil to LA Galaxy, March 16, 2011
(The Seattle Times | Sounders FC Blog, Joshua Meyers, Sounders vs Galaxy 3/16/11)

2011 MLS Champion LA Galaxy. Sounders 4-5-2 vs Galaxy in all competitions. 2-5-2 in MLS (including playoffs)

For this LA Confidential sequel, don’t go looking up IMDB (Internet Movie Database) when you have SOS (Sales on Sounders).

Seattle Sounders finally defeated LA Galaxy May 2nd, 2-nil. Stopping a winless streak dating to the 2009 inaugural season. Including regular season and 2010 MLS Playoff matches the Sounders record over that stretch 0-wins, 5-losses, 1-draw. The win in May was worth 3-points for the season, but without LA’s complete star-driven lineup it felt anticlimactic.

Sure, Sounders managed two US Open Cup wins over the Galaxy during that period. But at best the Galaxy were only giving 80% effort in those matches. Which ordinarily would be questionable behavior. If it weren’t for the fact the Galaxy made it clear winning MLS Cups are their priority. They backed that up convincingly winning the 2011 MLS Cup.

LA, Where the Wild Things are.

The Galaxy are loaded with international talent causing nightmares for MLS clubs.

No Galaxy name registers more attention than midfielder, David Beckham. With 6 goals and 9 assists, Beckham has been bending it the way only Beckham knows how. He has been directly involved in 15 of LA’s 39 goals. He’ll be nightmarish for the Sounders on set pieces.

Robbie Keane will make his first appearance for the Galaxy at Century Link Field. Although he has struggled to find the back of net this year, he has registered 52 shots, and tied with Donovan for 9 goals, leading the Galaxy. His struggles were only due to expectation for him to have scored 15-18 goals. He’s also recorded 6 assists. The Republic of Ireland National Team captain, is indeed the kind of nightmare the Sounders defense will have to challenge themselves to survive. His threat to score is as deadly as his ability to score.

When the Galaxy drifted to the bottom of the table earlier this season, all eyes turned on captain, Landon Donovan. Coach, Bruce Arena didn’t panic. Confident he had players with talent and will to pull through a sluggish start. Recently Arena pulled Donovan aside for a brief 1-vs-1. No surprise the Galaxy started climbing the table soon after. With a win over the Sounders, LA would rise to third place in the Western Conference.

“Struggling”, is a relative term in the world of defending champion, LA Galaxy. Landon Donovan continues to lead his team in scoring with 9 goals. He’s also recorded 7 assists, only 2 behind Beckham. It is easy to see why Donovan is the most prolific goal getter the US has produced. Even when he struggles, he’s a difference maker that finds ways to remain on the pitch contributing to the Galaxy’s success.

When LA struggled early on, one key player was absent from their championship squad, Omar Gonzalez. As the Galaxy slowly work back into championship form, it is his presence on defense that haunts opposing clubs.

LA’s three Designated Players: Robbie Keane, Landon Donovan, and David Beckham

Juninho is already known as a goal scoring thorn in the Sounders side. Playing at Century Link wont rattle this Brazilian’s football-brain.

Mike Magee doesn’t initially strike fear in opponents. He’s deceiving. Seems like a good guy. Defendable. Then, in the closing minutes of matches, who’s the guy on the end of so many Beckham bending blasts?  Magee, Magee, and Magee.

The Sounders have produced a unique ability to win US Open Cups. Since the Sounders 2009 inaugural season they are the only club to touch the cup. Winning three in a row. The name of the trophy is on the verge of being renamed, The Rave Green, Emerald City Cup. Next Wednesday, Sounders travel to Sporting Kansas City to play for their fourth consecutive US Open Cup.

The same can not be said for the Sounders ability to win key Major League Soccer regular season and playoff matches. They continue to be one of the most successful, attack oriented MLS clubs. But they struggle in key MLS matches. LA is one of those teams the Sounders have yet to measure up to.

Keys for the Sounders to exorcise a Boogie:

Don’t give up silly set pieces within Beckham’s bending range. Mark Robbie Keane. If you lose him, then you will find him in the back of your net. Mark up Magee. You can let Magee wander a bit, but watch out for his late runs into the box. When Beckham’s behind the ball, Magee better be covered, or you’ll soon realize he was the target all along.

With Eddie Johnson fully in form, will he be able to find that inch of space he needs to score on Omar Gonzalez? The Omar Gonzalez vs Eddie Johnson matchup may prove to be the key to the match. Another key question, will Osvaldo Alonso be able to hold up LA in the midfield, as he has against so many clubs? Tactically, he surely will. But not allowing LA to get inside his head, which I guarantee is an LA Confidential objective, will be Alonso’s challenge.

There may not be a footy-priest available tomorrow to conduct a Sounders exorcist. But, there will be 60,000 faithful, rave green, screaming fans boisterously believing they can beat a LA Boogie.

© 2012 Sales on Sounders by Ryan J Sales


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Defend It – Sounders vs Chivas USA – Seattle wants fourth Open Cup

11 07 2012

“Defend it”

“Defend It” – USL Sounders slogan – keychain side 2

USL Sounders “Defend It” keychain side 1

Dusting off an old Sounders keychain, I found a message from their USL days. It’s a simple slogan lacking originality. But sends a clear message. Defeat Chivas USA, Wednesday at Starfire and the Sounders earn the right to defend their three consecutive US Open Cup titles. A unique American sports dynasty that Sounders would like to defend while striving for a fourth.

Sporting Kansas City travels to PPL Park in Philadelphia to face the Philadelphia Union in the other Wednesday semifinal.

Three is not enough. Seattle have already established a modern US Open Cup dynasty winning three straight US Open Cups. From the 2009 inaugural season to the present they have reigned supreme. Possibly more significant than winning three straight cups is tomorrows semifinal with Chivas USA, which marks Seattle’s sixth consecutive trip to the US Open Cup semifinal round. A tremendous achievement in the cups ninety-nine year history. A mark extraordinary enough to likely stand for another hundred years.

If the Sounders make it past Chivas they will become only the second team to accomplish the feat.  The last being Stix, Baer and Fuller (St Louis Central Breweries) from 1932-1935.

Advantage Levesque or advantage Riley?
Teammates and fan favorites from the Sounders inaugural season and the run of three US Open Cups. Roger Levesque and James Riley face one another as opponents this time. Both are steady cogs in each clubs lineups. Never the star, but always accountable.

Roger Levesque plays any position. From Defender to Forward. James Riley was a steady Right Back for Seattle’s first three seasons. He plays the Right Back position consistently for Chivas USA since being picked up by Montreal and subsequently traded in the Expansion Draft. Levesque has played for the Sounders since their USL days.  He’s been part of each of the Sounders six-year run at reaching as far as the semifinal.

Starfire’s home advantage. Riley knows Sounders home away from home pitch at Starfire as well as any opponent Sounders could face. The short field plays quickly. Teams have little space to build a midfield attack. It makes for an exciting game for fans as the possession transitions like hockey quickly from defense to attack. Riley will be able to help Chivas prepare for that style of play.

2012 is the 99th edition of the US Open Cup – Sounders are 1st club since 67-69 to win 3 in a row – 6 consecutive semifinal appearances

For the Sounders, there is an intriguing simultaneous duel they are fighting for beyond the one with Chivas USA to reach the US Open Cup finals. One for respect. The US Open Cup does not get its due credit as an American sporting institution. And the Sounders aren’t treated like a reigning champion.

Rather than the Sounders having home-field advantage throughout this years competition as reigning champions. They lost home-field hosting rights to Sporting Kansas City with a coin flip. A sporting flop. A coin flip determines who kicks off and who defends. Not who hosts a match.

In any other major sporting league the Seattle Sounders US Open Cup accomplishments would be more highly regarded by their peers. Winning the US Open Cup is a direct path to CONCACAF Champions League. The Sounders have benefitted from punching their CCL ticket before any other MLS club the past three years. But MLS clubs often show up to US Open Cup matches ill prepared. Portland losing 1-0 to Cal FC may have even been the match that undid John Spencer’s coaching position for Portland. The Sounders don’t need any parades, but more acknowledgment from Major League Soccer and their club peers would help grow the interest and image of the 99-year-old knockout competition.

There are no guarantees, but if the Sounders defeat Chivas USA, they will be making a fourth consecutive US Open Cup Finals appearance. Their dynasty becomes legacy.

The Final may well be a name changing event. From US Open Cup, to Seattle’s Open Cup.

 

2007 – Seattle Sounders lose to FC Dallas 2-1 overtime – Qwest Field, Seattle, WA (Semifinal)
2008 – Seattle Sounders draw Charlotte Battery 1-1, lose on Penalty Kicks (4-2) – Charlotte, NC (Semifinal)
2009 – Seattle Sounders FC defeat DC United 2-1 – RFK Stadium, Washington, DC
2010 – Seattle Sounders FC defeat Columbus Crew 2-1 – Qwest Field, Seattle, WA
2011 – Seattle Sounders FC defeat Chicago Fire 2-nil – CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA
2012 – Seattle Sounders  FC vs Chivas USA – Starfire Sports Complex, Tukwila, WA (Semifinal)

© 2012 Sales on Sounders by Ryan J Sales


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Major League Wobegon Days – MLS Struggles to succeed in US Open Cup

5 06 2012

And now, the news from Major League Wobegon.

Lamar Hunt US Open Cup – Sounders FC 2009 – Present

All sixteen US-based Major League Soccer squads were included in this years US Open Cup. Their first action came in the third round. 2012 marks the 99th year for the US Open Cup. The last three consecutive cups have gone to Seattle Sounders FC who are pursuing an unprecedented fourth straight cup. With a dynasty already in tact, another would mark a legacy.

Common sense says 12 of the 16 MLS clubs move on. Vegas betting says no fewer than 10. No one picked only 8 moving on. If you did pick 8, quit your job and join SpaceX, The first commercial spacecraft missions to visit the international space station. So come on, you know you didn’t pick eight. No one did.

Their is only one American capable of picking so few big-league soccer clubs to move on. Eight Goliaths falling to eight Davids. A story of epic woebegone proportion. A true American storyteller, Garrison Keiller.

Lake Wobegon United fields only 10 starters. Because of some misinterpreted Lutheran athletic law of less is more. That, and no one, at least none of the men ever admitted Lake Wobegon’s Women’s soccer team were actually far superior. Ten championships out of eleven years. The men had still never scored twice in a single game. Always said they could win with one fewer player than the women. Down inside, they trembled with fear at the idea of playing the women. The swerving crosses, slicing kicks, never afraid of a little blood diving for a header. Ice fishing was more a mans rights of passage with his father anyway. Plus songs on the travel bus never went over well. Songs of course were a part of every young Lutheran’s church going experience on Sunday. But Lutheran soccer chants on the travel bus were pretty awful. “Burn, destroy, wreck, and kill”, never settled well with their stomachs. Or their ability to harmonize. ”Ole, ole, ole”, and “holy, holy, holy blurred together without recognition. None of the men wanted to travel anywhere to play soccer. The women just kept on winning. Either way, no one ever talked about soccer in Lake Wobegon, where all the women score goals, the men go fishing, and the children sew scarves.

When pairings were drawn for the third round of the US Open Cup, the Minnesota Stars got home field against 2009 MLS Cup Champions, Real Salt Lake. No travel. Holy, holy, holy! Finances are tough for everyone. Same for every second, third, and amateur level sports franchise. Real Salt Lake offered to buy the rights to host the match. Enough so Minnesota could fly to Salt Lake City. Seventeen thousand Real Salt Lake fans showed up. More for a pre-final match than in the 99 year history of the US Open Cup. Real Salt Lake had bought a sure win. Ole, ole, ole!

Kevin Venegas controlled an attempted clearance by Real Salt Lake Keeper, Kyle Reymish in only the third minute of the match. Venegas headed the ball barely under the crossbar and Minnesota was on the board. 17,000 hadn’t found their seats. Real Salt Lake suffered a Goliath collapse. Falling 3-1. Lake Wobegon United scored more than once. They finally won. But they weren’t even the least likely of the Davids to pluck the heart of Goliath.

Only half the Goliath MLS clubs played at a level you would expect. Barely making news. They simply delighted, like the New York Red Bulls in winning 3-nil over Charleston Battery.

2009 DC United, 2010 Columbus Crew, 2011 Chicago Fire, 2012 (?)

Other Goliath MLS winners included, Philadelphia Union ravaging the Rochester Rhinos 3-nil. Colorado Rapids toppling Tampa Bay 3-1. Kansas City took no pity on Orlando City 3-2. Chivas USA crumbled Ventura County 1-nil. San Jose Earthquakes shook Fort Lauderdale 2-1. And DC United gave the boot to the Richmond Kickers 2-1.

The other half of the MLS squads collapsed in historic fashion. There were fewer witnesses to the Goliath carnage as in Salt Lake, but the results were equally epic.

Harrisburg City and the New England Revolution took a nil-nil draw into overtime. Then split six goals. Level again at the end of overtime the clubs went to PK’s. The Revolution couldn’t hack the penalty kick pressure, losing 4-3.

Other Goliath MLS collapses included Michigan Bucks putting out the Chicago Fire 3-2. Dayton Dutch played something closer to their homeland Dutch style “total football” than the Columbus Crew, whom they ousted 2-1. San Antoinio knocked out rival, and 2012 MLS Cup runner-up Houston Dynamo 1-nil. Charlotte Eagles took the other MLS-heart out of Texas, knocking out FC Dallas 2-nil. Carolina RailHawks ousted 2012 MLS Cup Champion LA Galaxy 2-1.

That is only 14 of the 16 third round matches. 7 up. 7 down. Leaving the two best for last.

Like Real Salt Lake, Seattle Sounders FC bought hosting rights for their draw with the Atlanta Silverbacks. Atlanta drew the right to host, and Seattle made an offer Atlanta accepted. Seattle hosted the third round match at Starfire Sports in Tukwila. Where they have hosted all but two home matches in their three-year run. The other two home matches have been the finals at Century Link Field.

Unlike Real Salt Lake, Sounders FC did what any MLS squad is expected to do to an early US Open Cup round opponent. Especially if you are the owner of three consecutive cups. Crushing Atlanta 5-1.

Down the I-5 corridor in Portland was a Goliath woebegone story beyond anything Garrison Keillor could imagine.

The Portland Timbers did everything possible a team could do to win. Except actually win. Their inability to win was so perplexing their loyal fans seemed unsure what to cheer, or who to cheer for. Not out of anger, or not caring, but confusion. There was simply no way they could comprehend how they lost. They will never see another match like it as long as they live. There will never be another match like it.

Cal FC is an amateur team. Managed and handpicked by former MLS star and US International player Eric Wynalda. Castaways from MLS, other professional leagues, and guys who think they just need the right opportunity to be seen. Wynalda believes all his players deserve a shot at a professional contract. “If these guys aren’t with professional teams in August, then I didn’t do my job”, said Wynalda.

The star players of the first three rounds of the US Open Cup have all come from Cal FC. Rounds one and two were Danny Barrera. The third round underdog hero, or “he who shall not be named” in Portland, is Artur Aghasyan.

The Timbers are an outstanding attacking team. They don’t lack soccer creativity. But their finishing has become mysteriously missing. Statistics in this case speak for themselves. Portland Timbers took 37 shots, with 15 on frame. None found net. Enough goal scoring creativity for four matches. Enough frustration to consider taking a flight out of orbit.

Portland’s most notable shot came on a penalty kick in the 80th minute. Designated Player, Kris Boyd stepped up. Bald strikers always seem to be the best at taking heady PK’s. Boyd got under the ball to avoid showing direction to the keeper. To give it lift over the keepers outstretched arms and under the crossbar. A technically sound match winner. If it stays under the crossbar. Instead the shot foreshadowed the 8th death of Goliath in the 3rd round of the US Open Cup. Boyd’s shot took angels wings and embarked on an orbit off NASA’s radar.

Both squads were level after 90 minutes. Then came the two 15-minute overtime periods. In the fifth minute of the first overtime Danny Barrera played a perfectly timed, perfectly placed through ball to the running feet of Artur Aghasyan, who suddenly turned into Fernando Torres of Spain in the 2008 European Championships, and eloquently timed a lofted ball over Timbers Goalkeeper, Troy Perkins as Perkins went for the block.

The first goal by an amateur United States Adult Soccer Association team against a top professional MLS team.

Now the Sounders move on to face Cal FC.  The US Open Cup Goliaths against unpaid David. It’s been over twenty-two years since he said it, but if the Sounders don’t que up the goal finishing, someone will likely que up Al Michaels classic, “do you believe in miracles”. A happy tale for the winner, and an ice-age of woebegone for the loser.

© 2012 Sales on Sounders by Ryan J Sales


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Sigi Schmid and the Curse of the Columbus Crew – Crew at Sounders

23 05 2012

Is there a Sigi Schmid curse over the Columbus Crew?  Does Drew Carey conjure “Ohio” spells every time the two clubs meet?

Sneaking back over the border from Vancouver with a thrilling, but fortunate 2-2 draw last Saturday. The Sounders will try to pick up their first win from the last 3 matches. Facing the Columbus Crew on Wednesday, 7pm at Century Link.

The Seattle Sounders took Sigi Schmid from the Columbus Crew in 2009 to help form the clubs inaugural squad. Sounders FC have not given anything to Columbus in return. In fact, the Sounders have selfishly continued to take points from the Crew whenever both clubs meet.

Saturday, August 27th, 2011. Sounders crus Crew 6-2. Lamar Neagle earns first career hat-trick. Second ever for Sounders. Photo by Ryan Sales

The Sounders and Crew have met competitively seven times.  Six regular season matches. Where Sounders are 3-W, 0-L, 3-D.  The other competitive match was a Sounders 2-1 win in the 2010 US Open Cup. Their second in a row at the time. Seattle has gone on to win three consecutive US Open Cups. Additionally, the Sounders have accumulated 16 goals. Their highest tally against any MLS opponent. While only allowing Columbus 6 goals.

Sigi Schmid helped manage the Columbus Crew to a 2008 MLS Cup Championship. With Seattle joining Major League Soccer the following season, the Sounders wanted a top-tier MLS coach to join the club. One who knew the ins-and-outs of the MLS game, and its players. A manager who came with proven success. No manager stood out more than Sigi Schmid. The Sounders put their sites on their man. Went for him. And got hin.

Crew fans weren’t happy with losing their coach. They haven’t been rewarded for their sacrifice. When both clubs meet, the best the Crew have been able to do is earn a draw.

On their first trip to Seattle in 2009, both clubs drew 1-1. Bad fortune met Columbus when they met in their second and final match of the 2009 season series. The Sounders were leading 1-nil on a Roger Levesque goal in the 36th minute. Levesque’s first MLS goal. Seattle gave up a penalty kick in the 83rd minute. Reigning MVP, Guillermo Barros Schelotto stepped up for a sure equalizer. Prior to the spot-kick, Tyrone Marshall deployed a little orchestrated gamesmanship. While the referee was organizing players to prepare for the penalty kick, Seattle’s sly veteran defenseman nonchalantly kicked away the turf where the penalty spot was located. Schelotto had to adjust the location of the ball. Enough of an adjustment off the spot, that it sent the ball wide of the goal. Either that, or Tyrone simply administered the Sigi curse into Crew Stadium pitch.

In 2010, Sounders Blaise Nkufo dealt the Crew a stinging hat-trick in a brutal 4-nil home loss to the Sounders. Only somewhat understandable considering Nkufo had just played for the 2010 Swiss National Team in the World Cup. Along with a historic career at FC Twente. But nothing prepared the Crew for Saturday, August 27th, 2011. A sunny summer afternoon in Seattle. Perfect for soccer. Unless you’re cursed. Lamar Neagle scored in only the 4th minute of the match. He went on to collect two more for the Sounders second hat-trick. Both against the Crew. While the club went on to tally 6 goals, and conceding only two. The Sounders most deviating thrashing of an opponent to date.

Coming in to Wednesday’s match the Crew have played 10 matches. Earning 12 points on the season from a 3-W, 4-L, 3-D record. Seattle has played 11 matches. Turning 23 points from a successful 7-W, 2-L, 2-D record.

There is no such “sure thing” in soccer. The sport is far from having it. The closest you can get perhaps to a soccer sure thing is the Seattle Sounders FC’s dominance over Columbus Crew. I’d never say bet your house on it, but I’d recommend placing fair money on Seattle to walk away midweek winners. If for no reason, than I completely believe in Sigi’s curse over the Crew.

© 2012 Sales on Sounders by Ryan J Sales


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Union and Sounders Shed Expansion Franchise Tag – Seattle Sounders FC vs Philadelphia Union

7 10 2011

Flashback to March 25th, 2010. First Kick, the inaugural match for expansion Philadelphia Union, and start of the 2010 season. The stadium formerly known as Qwest roared with thirty-six thousand Sounders fans and a national TV audience that descended on the young Philadelphia Union. Twelve minutes in, Steve Zakuani carved out a pass to Brad Evans who neatly finished for an early 1-nil lead. A goal the young traveling Union never recovered. Possibly in awe of Sounders home fans, but more likely phased by the pace of play. Seattle played fast, so Philly had to counter with physical play to stay alive. Their central, back-line tough-man put his stamp on his clubs début. Danny Califf put a rough knee-check into the back of Freddie Ljungberg, resulting in a straight red-card ejection. Sounders went on to win 2-nil. It’s the type of play expected from most expansion clubs.

Seattle Sketcher, Gabi Campanario

Sketch by Gabi Campanario - 8/5/09 at Barcelona Friendly

The 2009 expansion Sounders FC raised the bar for future franchise expansion. Not only by Major League standards, but by expansion standards of clubs in any sport. The Sounders were an exception that left Philadelphia a tough act to follow.

One year later both clubs are in second place in their respective conferences. Both clubs even hold mathematical possibilities of winning their conferences. Nothing remains of either clubs frenzied expansion pace. Both clubs now have settled into confident almost champion like skin.

The Union took beloved Le Toux from the Sounders but missed the playoffs. Former Sounders fan favorite, Sebastian Le Toux has rediscovered his scoring touch in recent matches. All too familiar to Sounders fans who adopted him as a favorite in helping the Sounders win the 2007 USL-1 title. Le Toux was acquired by Philadelphia from Sounders FC in the 2010 Expansion Draft. Sounders FC left him unprotected and the Union seized the opportunity. Teams can only protect eleven players from being drafted by expansion teams.

The 2009 expansion Sounders FC set high marks even veteran clubs would love to hit. Securing a winning record with 13 wins, win their first US Open Cup, make their first playoff appearance, and celebrate in front of record crowds. Philadelphia’s fans supported their team and opened a beautiful new soccer only stadium, but were unable to win any hardware or make the playoffs.

During their first offseason, Philadelphia took stock of their priorities. Rather than be influenced by the directions of other clubs, they began to forge their own direction. The result has been a team playing with acres more confidence. They are in second place in the East and with a win against the Sounders on Saturday, clinch their first playoff spot.

For much of the season the Union led the Eastern Conference. A conference exchanging leaders throughout the season. Top seed will likely change hands a time or two again before the final playoff positions are determined in the last three matches.

Philadelphia Union - 2009 Expansion

Their top-seeded form has waned since they rose to the top of the East early on. Their matches have been close and physical. Their defense ranks among the best in MLS allowing only 34 goals in 31 matches. Goals haven’t come easy.

Philadelphia only trails Eastern leaders Sporting Kansas City by one point. Retaking the lead and finishing at the top of the East would be a way to mark their confident rise as one of the best clubs in Major League Soccer in only their second year.

“Mathematically”, the Sounders could still pass the LA Galaxy to win the Supporters Shield for best overall record. LA would have to help by doing no better than losing and drawing their final two matches. The kind of results they have avoided all season. Through 32 matches they have lost only 4.

Sigi Schmid continually amazes with his ability to rest players and still put out a competitive line-up. For the Sounders, health seems to be a greater concern. As much as they would love to win in front of their home crowd, and make a push for the Supporters Shield, they have injuries to heel and injuries to prevent. Sounders have been without Mauro Rosales since his injury to DC United. Working him back into the lineup, resting some players, and giving minutes to others will be of more playoff value to Sigi and his Sounders.

A preview of a possible MLS Cup Final?  Unlikely with LA and New York at the center of the playoff scene. Yet, with both clubs quickly shedding their expansion skin, revealing confidence usually only seen with veteran franchises, a championship preview on Saturday is not unthinkable.

© 2011 Sales on Sounders by Ryan Sales


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Sounders on Champions Tour to Vancouver and Guatemala City – Sounders at CSD Comunicaciones

27 09 2011

Sounders '09-'10 US Open Cup Titles lead to '10-'11 Champions League

After an impressive start in Champions League with three consecutive wins, Herediano brought Sounders strong start to a halt in Seattle last Tuesday. Losing 1-nil the Sounders missed a chance to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.  The road to secure that spot in the last two Group Stage matches becomes more challenging.

New places and enemy faces.

Sounders travel Tuesday to Guatemala City, to face CSC Comunicaciones for the second time in Champions League this year. Comunicaciones are familiar faces to Sounders FC, after making easy work of them in a 4-1 trouncing in Seattle in their first Group Stage meeting. Facing them in Guatemala will prove a new challenge all together. Last year’s Champions League experience has helped the Sounders. But Comunicaciones will be on its home pitch with their fans. Playing at new stadiums, often with less than pristine pitches, always presents opportunities for unlucky ball bounces.

Sounders have done well on the road this year. Including the thrilling defeat over Monterrey in Mexico. Experience played a key roll in holding off Monterrey’s late charge. But unlike any Champions League team the Sounders face this year, Monterrey know the Sounders and they know Seattle.  They traveled to Seattle last year, and before Portland, they had the best and loudest away fan support the Sounders have dealt with at home. Monterrey defeated Seattle twice in Champions League last year, and went on to defeat Real Salt Lake to win the 2010 CONCACAF Champions League.

Club Social y Deportivo Comunicaciones

If Seattle fails to defeat, or at least draw with Comunicaciones on Tuesday, then they may as well buy lottery tickets. Leaving their chances of advancement in Champions League to a win over Monterrey in October, two weeks before MLS playoffs is about as likely as winning the lottery. Needing to defeat the defending Champions League cup holders here, there, or anywhere is as tough a professional club-level challenge as you could face in North American soccer.

Calling tomorrow’s match a must win, or must draw, is an understatement. A win means Sounders don’t have to play with mood-swinging lineup changes and desperation when Monterrey visits Seattle for the second year in a row in October.

Lineup changes and rested players.

Sounder’s Coach, Sigi Schmid will be tested the rest of the way. With Champions League, US Open Cup Final, and MLS Playoff-significant matches crammed into a compact schedule, players will have to be shuffled each match. Injuries to Mauro Rosales on top of others add to that challenge.

Seattle Sketcher, Gabi Campanario

Sales on Sounders by Gabi Campanario - 8/5/09 at Barcelona Friendly

Carrying momentum over from being crowned Champions of Cascadia after the weekend’s 3-1 victory over Vancouver, may prove for the Sounders their best chance of advancing in Champions League against Comunicaciones tomorrow. Vancouver is not as challenging an away destination as Guatemala City, but it shows experienced development of a young team when it finds success on the road.  The Sounders are an outstanding 7-wins, 3-losses, and 5-draws on the road in MLS this season. They are a young team that plays like veterans. Their experience gained from added US Open Cup and Champions League matches over their first three seasons is showing. Tuesday is a chance to put that acquired experience on display to the broader footballing world.

© 2011 Sales on Sounders by Ryan Sales


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Champions of Infinite Space – CS Herediano vs Sounders FC

20 09 2011

Champions League is appropriately named.  You have to be a champion to play with champions.  ”If you ain’t first, you’re last”.  As Will Ferrell said, playing Ricky Bobby, in Talladega Nights.  The Winners League doesn’t have that same, ah yes, “joie de vivre”.  It’s called Champions League, ‘cuz it’s only for teams that raise trophies.

In soccer, when you win a trophy in any significant competition, you earn the right to celebrate with pride.  Fans can be certain there will be time and place to be pompous and boast their clubs achievements.  For Sounders FC’s faithful, a win tomorrow over Herediano means a chance to put that braggadocio on an espresso train, and punch their ticket to the Champions League Quarterfinals.

Sounders '09-'10 US Open Cup Titles lead to '10-'11 Champions League

When in Seattle. Opportunities for Sounders FC boasting, like rainy fall days are coming in quick succession. Victories in upcoming matches may bring pouring buckets of loud celebration. Sounders are one win from clinching a third consecutive US Open Cup. One win from clinching a third consecutive Major League Soccer playoff appearance. One win from clinching a first ever appearance in the CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinals.

Two consecutive US Open Cup championships have placed Seattle in the think of their FIFA global soccer region’s Champions League over the last two years. (CONCACAF – Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football)

Wining once in all six Champions League Group Stage matches last year, who would have thought Sounders FC would be the only club with three wins in three matches in this years Champions League. A fourth win tomorrow advances them to the Quarterfinals in only their third year in Major League Soccer.  No trophy is given for that accomplishment, but it’s a great opportunity to boast about.

Tomorrow will be the second time Sounders FC and CS Herediano have faced off in six days.  Last Wednesday, Sounders traveled to Costa Rica, and on the strength of two Montero goals they outlasted Herediano 2-1.

Three significant lineup changes for tomorrow will force Sounders coach, Sigi Schmid to be creative with his choices. Depth should give the Sounders the fill-in pieces needed to keep their winning chances from dropping off. Mauro Rosales, will miss due to a knee injury suffered in last Saturday’s 3-nil win over DC United. His MRI results should be known by weeks end. Alvaro Fernandez, will miss due to yellow-card accumulation. With games coming quickly and little time to recuperate in between, Kasey Keller will rest tomorrow. Normally, his spot would be covered by Terry Boss. Boss suffered a second concussion during recent international play, allowing for the Sounders third Keeper, Joshua Ford to make his first appearance. To keep their depth chart at three for the Keeper position, the Sounders have brought in Bryan Meredith from the Kitsap Pumas.

CONCACAF Champions League

Club Sport Herediano, Primera División, Costa Rica

Any team that has reached a championship and hoisted a trophy, has had to overcome diverse challenges. Mauro Rosales’s injury will be a big one for Sounders FC.  Already without Steve Zakuani and O’Brian White for the rest of the season, the loss of Rosales presents another difficult obstacle for Seattle. The extent of his injury is yet to be determined. In the meantime, Sounders FC will have to prove their roster’s quality and depth.

One thing is certain, a victory tomorrow, and Sounders will prove their poise even above experience.  A measure of a clubs grit and determination for becoming a champion.  A champion worth boasting about loudly, and for a long time.

© 2011 Sales on Sounders by Ryan J Sales


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Threshold of a Dynasty – US Open Cup Semi Final – FC Dallas vs Sounders FC

30 08 2011

US Open Cup - Sounders FC 2009, 2010 Champions

The Sounders have not completed three seasons as a modern-era, Major League Soccer version of their thirty-seven year old franchise, yet they stand on the doorway of a dynasty. Defeating FC Dallas on Tuesday, places them one step closer to making that dream become reality.

A perfect way for the US Open Cup to attract more attention is for a team to turn a successful legacy into a historic dynasty. Tuesday at Starfire Sports Complex, in Tukwila, Washington, Sounders FC host FC Dallas for their fifth consecutive US Open Cup Semi-Final. A win puts them into the US Open Cup Final for the third consecutive year. Winning the final would firmly secure their place in US Soccer history.

Ninety-six years of history. The US Open Cup is barely a blip on the US Sports map. The Sounders are helping to change that. The US Open Cup winner earns a valuable shot at Champions League. Both FC Dallas and Seattle became the first US teams to defeat Mexican clubs on their home soil.  FC Dallas defeated Pumas 1-nil on August 17th. While Sounders FC traveled to Monterrey, winning by the same 1-nil score on August 23rd.  The two prestigious victories combined with Real Salt Lake reaching the CONCACAF Champions League Final last year, means Champions League stock is rising for MLS clubs. The US Open Cup should also rise in value as winning it earns no less than a play-in opportunity for Champions League.  The Sounders have made that a successful route to accomplishing their clubs highly valued goal of winning the CONCACAF Champions League.  They have made Champions League two consecutive years via the US Open Cup Champion play-in designation.

This will be the third time FC Dallas and Sounders FC meet this year.  Seattle lost on May 25th.  A tough 1-nil loss at home.  Dallas scored first and held off Seattle’s relentless pressure the rest of the way.  Sounders FC turned the table on FC Dallas, winning 1-nil in Texas on August 20th.  Both home teams deserved a result, but both stole a road victory surviving the others relentless attack.  The recent win by Sounders FC, in Frisco, Texas vaulted them into second place in the Western Conference behind the LA Galaxy.

Chicago Fire have won the US Open Cup four times, with Seattle winning the past two.  A win this year and Sounders FC becomes the first MLS team to win three consecutive, as well as first to accomplish the feat modern-era professional club since the New York Greek-American from 1967-69.  The US Open Cup is filled with a rich tradition and diverse mix of teams.  It is some of the most culturally rich and exciting sporting history in the US.  Only not as sexy as its pass and run football relative, or basketball.  A win for the Sounders over FC Dallas may be a win for the US Open Cup.  Both teams deserve a shot at the final.  But one could turn a dynasty into a selfless act of sporting good-will for a tournament long overdue for a high-profile sporting champion. 

*Please visit and support thecup.us 

© 2011 Sales on Sounders by Ryan Sales


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Can the Sounders win EVERYTHING? – Columbus Crew vs Seattle Sounders FC

27 08 2011

Seattle Sounders FC host Columbus Crew tomorrow on the X-Box pitch at CenturyLink Field, at 1:00 pm (PST)

* Be sure to take the Poll at the bottom of this post.  Add your comments about how you feel the Sounders will finish this year and what, if any hardware they will add to their trophy case.

Columbus Crew - 2008 MLS Cup Champions

Columbus Crew leading the Eastern Conference and Seattle Sounders FC second in the Western Conference? Considering most people picked talent heavy, New York Red Bulls as clear Eastern Conference champions, along with Steve Zakuani’s broken leg occurring early in Seattle’s season, most thoughts of Columbus and Seattle being significant playoff contenders seemed highly unlikely.

Here we are, eight matches to go and arguably the two hottest MLS teams square off in one of this weekends more compelling matches with significant playoff positioning at stake.

Last Saturday, Columbus defeated Philadelphia 2-1 at Crew Stadium to go four points clear at the top of the Eastern Conference. The same day, Seattle traveled to 106-degree Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas and defeated FC Dallas for sole possession of second place in the Western Conference. It was Seattle’s first win in Texas.

Seattle scores and Columbus defends. At 36 goals, Seattle is among the top five MLS clubs in scoring. A remarkable turnaround from an early season lack of goals. Defensively, Columbus is tied for third in the league at 24 for fewest goals allowed. That said, both clubs are well-balanced at both ends.  Columbus has excellent attacking forwards, like US International, Robbie Rogers, Emilio Renteria, and Andres Mendoza. Seattle’s defense went through a July stretch of letting in a few more goals than Keller prefers. In their last three matches, Seattle has only allowed one goal and recorded two shutouts.

Since Sigi Schmid left Columbus in 2008 the Crew have yet to defeat the Sounders. Sigi won the 2008 MLS Cup with the Columbus Crew. Sounders FC lured him to Seattle for their inaugural 2009 season. In this, his third season, he was awarded a four-year contract extension through the 2015 season. In MLS regular season play the Crew’s record against Seattle is 0-wins, 2-losses, and 3-draws.  They also lost to Seattle last year in the US Open Cup final.

US Open Cup - Sounders FC 2009, 2010 Champions

Last season featured two significant matches that give the Crew strong desire for pay-back. The first, in September, a 4-nil drubbing in Columbus. Including Sounders FC’s first hat-trick from Blaise Nkufo. The second was a 2-1 US Open Cup final loss at Qwest Field. Seattle’s second consecutive US Open Cup title.

Columbus wants to change the trend.  Both Seattle’s regular season wins were in Columbus. While both the Crew’s trips to Seattle ended in 1-1 draws.

What three points would do.  A win and the Crew would likely put insurmountable distance over Eastern Conference favorites New York Red Bulls.  Significant, since the Red Bulls were preseason favorites to win the Eastern Conference, and the MLS Cup.  With a Seattle win, the Sounders would march three points closer to LA, for top spot in the Western Conference.  Further securing their second place spot.  Seattle trails LA by six points for the top spot in MLS.

Enjoying the possibilities.  When I started this site, it was to follow the Sounders rise through Major League Soccer to become one of the world’s most successful soccer clubs.  The Sounders are making greater strides towards that goal in their third season than I imagined.  This coming Tuesday, August 30th, they face FC Dallas in a US Open Cup semi-final.  A win sends Sounders FC to a third consecutive final.  In regular season MLS standings, Seattle sits second in the league.  Meaning playoff positioning is more favorable than the first two seasons.  It also means they trail LA by six points for the Supporters Shield.  The Supporters Shield goes to the MLS club with the highest points total at the end of the season.  (win = 3 pts, draw = 1 pt)  It would be a surprise to pass LA, but the possibility is real. After two CONCACAF matches the Sounders have already doubled their effort from last year. They now lead their Champions League Group D with 2-wins (6 points).  The top top teams from each group goes to the CONCACAF Quarter-Finals.  (4 Groups with 4 teams in each)

Nothing accomplished. No victory celebrations to report, yet. The Sounders are one of only two teams in Major League Soccer competing as legitimate contenders in three competitions.  MLS, US Open Cup, and CONCACAF.  The other team is FC Dallas. Matches like this one against the Columbus Crew show how competitive the Sounders have become.  Every match feels like it’s 106-degrees in Frisco, Texas. The intensity from heated pressure of each match also brings cool fresh hope.  The blue sky is the limit for the Rave Green.  I have no idea how many chances I will have to ask this question with hopeful pride.  So here goes.  Is this the year Sounders win Everything?

* Scroll over the “Share” button below this page to share on Facebook, Twitter, & others.  Feel free to “like” or +1 if you use Google.  Thank you for supporting and reading, Sales on Sounders.  Your comments are greatly appreciated.  

© 2011 Sales on Sounders by Ryan Sales


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US Open Cup Quarterfinal – LA Galaxy at Sounders FC – Bruce Arena, no excuses for Revenge

13 07 2011
Seattle Sketcher, Gabi Campanario

Sales on Sounders by Gabi Campanario - 8/5/09 @ Barca Friendly

Sometimes when your team is in form, like the Sounders current eight game undefeated streak, it seems like everything in the world of soccer is about your team.  As the Women’s World Cup heats up, so does the US Open Cup.  As the Women pursue a third World Cup title.  The Sounders pursue a third consecutive US Open Cup.  Can both succeed?  If everything in the world of soccer is Sounders, then the answer is absolutely!

First, there was Sunday, July 10th when the US Women’s National Team came back to defeat Brazil in penalty kicks.  Immediately after, Sounders FC came back to defeat the Timbers.  Coincidentally, on a penalty kick.

Then today, Wednesday, July 13th the US Women’s National Team defeat France 3-1 in the World Cup Semifinals and move one step away from hoisting their third Women’s World Cup trophy.

Tonight, across the Atlantic, on s small field in Tukwilla, Washington, Sounders FC play their Quarter-Final US Open Cup match against the LA Galaxy.  A rematch of last years 2-nil Sounders win.  A win earns a trip to the Semifinal vs FC Dallas for a chance to hoist a third consecutive US Open Cup.

Maybe the great play of the US Women in Germany will send soccer waves all the way to the Sounders in Seattle?  Maybe it’s coincidence?  You decide.

US Open Cup - Sounders FC Defending '09 & '10 Champions

Some Major League Soccer teams question the value of the US Open Cup.  Seattle Sounders FC make it a priority. The Cup winner gains the opportunity to play in the CONCACAF Champions League.  A tournament gaining international recognition.  LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls are two teams that have questioned the value of US Open Cup.  Chicago, Columbus, and FC Dallas join Seattle in taking the US Open Cup seriously.  Scheduling and lineup choices are challenges, but what league around the world doesn’t face those same challenges in important tournaments other than their league?  The weak effort and hasty excuses from some MLS squads are showing leaks.

Tonight pits Major League Soccer’s league leading, and star-powered LA Galaxy against two-time defending US Open Cup Champion, Seattle Sounders FC.  Both clubs have high stake reasons to win.  No excuses.

No excuses for watered down lineups.  LA Galaxy play a Saturday friendly against Real Madrid.  While Sounders FC play an intense weekend regular season match against Major League Soccer defending Champion, Colorado Rapids at home.  Sounders coach, Sigi Schnid has the tougher schedule, but will play to pursue a third consecutive US Open Cup title.

Bruce Arena and LA have dominated Seattle with 5-wins and 1-draw in MLS regular season and playoff competition the last two years.  His only loss to rival coach, Sigi Schmid and the Sounders came last July in the US Open Cup.  Bruce Arena will be seeking revenge for the 2-nil loss.  He has no excuses for doing anything other than fielding a high-powered revenge seeking lineup.  Sigi Schmid has the tougher job of navigating lineup decisions to have players healthy and ready for both matches.

“. . . to me these games don’t make sense”.
“Essentially, it was a reserve game tonight.  I think the timing of this competition isn’t right for MLS teams”.
” . . . the competition is watered down due to the fact that each team is juggling players”.

Bruce Arena’s comments, July 2010 after losing 2-nil to Sounders in a US Open Cup Semifinal.

Bruce Arena also made comments about the Starfire field and facility.  He may have a point in questioning the Sounder’s Front Office insistence in using the small practice pitch, but he won’t have to worry about lineup juggling or MLS scheduling.  The only watered down issue he may have to deal with is his teams preparation for the short, fast, Northwest pitch.

Follow me tonight on Twitter.  @SalesonSounders also @USOpenCup.  Watch the match live, here.  Also visit the US Open Cup site TheCup.us.

Thanks and support to Josh Hakala and ALL involved with and working for TheCup.us.

© 2011 Sales on Sounders by Ryan Sales


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