Intended Consequences

Ben Cup 2009 Second Leg TONIGHT

2009-05-23T13:30:00.004-04:00

Bad News for People Who Love Good News

2009-02-09T15:09:00.006-05:00

So you bought a nice affordable house in the suburbs further from the city? Unfortunately your monthly costs are probably still more than people that live closer. So says the Urban Land Institute here. Sorry for the disappointment.

First Post On Urban Life Lab - Go Check It Out

2009-02-04T11:10:00.001-05:00

Check out my first post on Urban Life Lab on Lorton Prison/The Workhouse.

what's not to love

2008-10-21T20:30:00.001-04:00

i made bread

2008-10-17T20:16:00.003-04:00

my wife has the camera, so i have no way to prove it, but i made bread.

full disclosure: a friend of ours mixed up all the dry ingredients and gave me directions for the rest of the stuff, but i mixed it together and baked it. it tasted good. take that!

post-oil

2008-10-09T20:04:00.002-04:00

(the rules of the internet say "give credit where credit is due": this picture is from this website)

I will admit it, this essay is a bit alarmist and paranoid but I love alarmist paranoia. I love post-Apocalypse fiction, so why wouldn't I absolutely adore post-Apocalypse non-fiction!? This was a suggested read from an ACTUAL librarian. I believe this is from a speech by James Kunstler given in 2005. Kunstler gives us an idea of what the United States of America will look like when (there is no "if" in his scenario) we run out of oil. He talks about the end of corporations and cities, the revitalization of small communities, living locally, and relying on ourselves when the central government is no longer able to exist in its current powerful state. Per usual, I recommend reading the entire piece here it really is a fantastic read in every sense of the word.

Here is a sample :

"Downscaling America doesn't mean we become a lesser people. It means that the scale at which we conduct the work of American daily life will have to be adjusted to fit the requirements of a post-globalist, post-cheap-oil age.

We are going to have to live a lot more locally and a lot more intensively on that local level. Industrial agriculture, as represented by the Archer Daniels Midland / soda pop and cheez doodle model of doing things, will not survive the end of the cheap oil economy. The implication of this is enormous. Successful human ecologies in the near future will have to be supported by intensively farmed agricultural hinterlands. Places that can't do this will fail. Say goodbye to Phoenix and Las Vegas.

I'm not optimistic about most of our big cities. They are going to have to contract severely. They achieved their current scale during the most exuberant years of the cheap oil fiesta, and they will have enormous problems remaining viable afterward. Any mega-structure, whether it is a skyscraper or a landscraper - buildings that depend on huge amounts of natural gas and electricity - may not be usable a decade or two in the future.

What goes for the scale of places will be equally true for the scale of social organization. All large-scale enterprises, including many types of corporations and governments will function very poorly in the post-cheap oil world. Do not make assumptions based on things like national chain retail continuing to exist as it has."

rebooting democracy - "Professional Politicians Beware!"

2008-10-03T15:42:00.001-04:00

As I continue to read "rebooting america: Ideas for Redesigning American Democracy for the Internet Age" I keep finding even more interesting ideas. The next one comes from the essay "Professional Politicans Beware!" by Aaron Swartz.

This essay presents the idea of participatory politics or ParPolity. Aaron's idea is that we should have nested councils at each level of government and each council should have about 50 members. So you would get together with 50 of your neighbors and talk about the issues. Then you would elect one representative to go to the next level where that person would meet with 50 other neighborhood representatives and so on. I love the idea of direct, face-to-face interaction with policy makers.

Here's how Aaron describes it:

"So, to begin with, let us imagine a council of you and your 40 closest neighbors—perhaps the other people in your apartment building or on your block. You get together every so often to discuss the issues that concern you and your neighborhood. And you may vote to set policy for the area which the council covers.

But your council has another function: it selects one of its own to send as a representative to the next council up. There the process repeats itself: the representative from your block and its 40 closest neighbors meet every so often to discuss the political issues that concern the area. And, of course, your representative reports back to the group, gets your recommendations on difficult questions, and takes suggestions for issues to raise at the next area council meeting.

By the power of exponents, just five levels of councils, each consisting of only fifty people, is enough to cover over three hundred million people. But—and this is the truly clever bit—at the area council the whole process repeats itself. Just as each block council nominates a representative to the area council, each area council nominates a representative to the city council, and each city council to the state council, each state council to the national council, and so on.

Shalom discusses a number of further details—provisions for voting, recalls, and delegation—but it’s the idea of nesting that’s key. Under such a system, there are only four representatives who stand between you and the people setting national policy, each of whom is forced to account to their constituents in regular, small face-to-face meetings. Politicians in such a system could not be elected through empty appeals to mass emotions. Instead, they would have to sit down, face-to-face, with a council of their peers and persuade them that they are best suited to represent their interests and positions."

rebooting democracy - "Small d Democracy"

2008-10-02T17:43:00.000-04:00

I have read about half of the collection of essays called "rebooting america: Ideas for Redesigning American Democracy for the Internet Age." You can find it here for free. Each essay presents an idea for improving our democracy based on the tools made available by the Internet and new technology.

The first idea that I found worthwhile is from the essay titled "Small d Democracy" by Susan Crawford (page 92 of the pdf, if you are following along). Ms. Crawford's idea to improve our democracy is to develop a website that would track all the upcoming decisions being made by local government. We would then be able to read about these decisions and share our opinions with our leaders and with our neighbors. In this way we would know what was going on and our leaders would know how we feel about it. She does not mention it, I assume it is implied, but I would add that we should also be able to see how our leaders decided and then track how often we agreed/disagreed with our leaders. This would give us some basis to know who we should vote for in the next local elections. The website associated with this collection of essays allows you to comment on each of the essays, so I have made my suggestions to Susan Crawford.

In her own words:

"If it were possible to pay attention every once in a while, between elections, to what our representatives or agency heads were about to do in an area of interest to us—and register our reaction to that proposed action—that would be useful.

This is a modest goal. Americans want to feel that our lives have been made more significant through participation in governance. Voting in elections is important, but it is not enough, and it need not be the ceiling for participation. With a little experimentation, we could be doing much more for ourselves.

For example: localities could generate radar-screens of issues coming before the city council or the mayor. With the weather report (something everyone seems to be interested in) on a local page could come a small radar visualization, with pulsing dots showing what matters were likely to have an effect on your neighborhood. If you were interested, you could click through and do a short amount of reading—perhaps just Twitter-length—about what was about to happen. And then act in some effective way (such as sharing the information with others, writing about it, or showing up at the meeting), with feedback showing how your action had been assessed/aggregated by others."

Translation of the last post "Jimmy or Warren" Pt. 2

2008-10-02T09:51:00.000-04:00

Go here to see the quotes I previously posted on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Fannie and Freddie are pseudo-government agencies. The pseudo part is because they are backed by government funds, they have a government housing mission, and they are supposedly heavily regulated. The problem with having a mission to make more money for shareholders and a mission to provide affordable housing as a government directive is that you can easily get the two confused. If you have a never ending supply of money, you can take what you need when you need it so that the accounting looks good at the end of each year. This is where the regulation is needed to make sure that doesn't happen.

200 regulators, assigned exclusively to these two companies, could not keep Freddie and Fannie from screwing with their financial statements. Warren Buffet got out of Fannie and Freddie in 2000 and 2001 because he (his company) suspected some accounting problems. If a single person (granted, a very smart and motivated person) can evaluate these two companies accurately, why can't 200 people keep track of them? This just goes to show that more regulation is not always the right answer, especially if current regulation is not working.

I love Jonah Hill

2008-10-01T20:31:00.002-04:00

Update: My wife tells me that this is celebrity propaganda. To be honest I didn't really pay attention. I was just waiting for Jonah Hill to come on the screen. And maybe Sarah Sliverman. She's kind of funny too.

Translation of the last post "Jimmy or Warren" Pt. 1

2008-10-01T11:31:00.001-04:00

I finished working last night at about 12:30 or 1 am. Then I thought it was necessary to post a blog. It was a lot of cut and paste without much explanation. Not to mention my level of coherence after 10pm is typically low. (You can imagine the quality of work my employer gets at those late hours) So I'm offering my readership a translation in a few bite size chunks.

On patience and farsightedness:
"Well, I think in any personal activity, business activity or certainly governmental activity, you know, there should be -you should be thinking plenty about what happens down the road."

We are currently in one of the largest economic crises the world has ever seen. A lot of the current problems are due to short-sightedness on the part of lenders, consumers, and the government. At this point there is not much we can do to influence what happens next, we can only prepare. We should be thinking of what happens down the road. We should be thinking about 5-10 years from now and where we want to be. What kind of humans do we want our children to be? What kind of humans do WE want to be? What kind of job do we want? What kind of financial security do we want? What kind of disasters do we want to be prepared for? What do we want to contribute to our neighbors and communities?

The ever eloquent Chris Jones wrote about this bailout business here. He has some fantastic thoughts on this whole financial crisis and what happens next. Pay special attention to point #8 and his ideas on preparation.

jimmy or warren?

2008-10-01T00:16:00.004-04:00

"...I think I said one time that, you know, you only find out who's been swimming naked when the tide goes out. Well, we found out that Wall Street has been kind of a nudist beach." -Warren Buffet, CNBC Squawk Box August 22, 2008

I deserve to be laughed at. When I first heard the name Warren Buffet a few years ago, I said to myself, "Who knew that the guy that sang Margaritaville, was an investment genius?" I just read this long transcript from August 22, 2008 when Warren Buffet was on CNBC. He had some very enlightening things to say about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. I tried to find some video to post, but my googlizing skills failed me. My full notes are here. Below are a few excerpts that I found especially interesting, they are a little bit long but give me a break the transcript was from a 3 hour interview.

On patience and farsightedness:
"Well, I think in any personal activity, business activity or certainly governmental activity, you know, there should be--you should be thinking plenty about what happens down the road."

On regulators at Fannie and Freddie:
"Well, it's really an incredible case study in regulation because something called OFHEO was set up in 1992 by Congress, and the sole job of OFHEO was to watch over Fannie and Freddie, someone to watch over them. And they were there to evaluate the soundness and the accounting and all of that. Two companies were all they had to regulate. OFHEO has over 200 employees now. They have a budget now that's $65 million a year, and all they have to do is look at two companies. I mean, you know, I look at more than two companies.

And they sat there, made reports to the Congress, you can get them on the Internet, every year. And, in fact, they reported to Sarbanes and Oxley every year. And they went--wrote 100 page reports, and they said, `We've looked at these people and their standards are fine and their directors are fine and everything was fine.' And then all of a sudden you had two of the greatest accounting misstatements in history. You had all kinds of management malfeasance, and it all came out.

And, of course, the classic thing was that after it all came out, OFHEO wrote a 350--340 page report examining what went wrong, and they blamed the management, they blamed the directors, they blamed the audit committee. They didn't have a word in there about themselves, and they're the ones that 200 people were going to work every day with just two companies to think about. It just shows the problems of regulation."

More on Fannie and Freddie and their dual business goals:
"Well, how they got here was they had two businesses, basically. They insured mortgages on a huge scale, trillions, and then they ran sort of a hedge fund, a carry trade where they bought mortgages and borrowed extensively against them. And because they had really the backing of the United States government--and everybody assumed they had the backing. I assumed it. And the truth is they do have the backing of the United States government in terms of their debt, not in terms of their equity--they were able to borrow without any normal restraints in terms of capital or margin requirements or anything of the sort. They had a blank-check from the federal government.

And they also had an added problem in that they had a dual mission. The government expected them to promote housing and the stockholders expected them to raise the earnings substantially every year. And as the years went by, they emphasized the latter more and more. They started talking about "steady Freddie," and Fannie Mae said, `We're going to increase the earnings at 15 percent a year.' Any large financial institution that tells you that sort of thing is giving you a line of baloney. I mean, they may do it for a while, but when they can't do it with operations, they do it with accounting and they cheat. And that's what happened at both those places on a huge, huge scale.

And we have this--they're so wound up with national housing policy, that they're a national problem and, with this dual situation, you know, Lincoln said a house divided against itself, you know, must fall. And they existed half-slave, half-free for a long time, and then the motivations became in conflict, and when they got on the 15 percent a year merry-go-round and said, you know, `We're going to deliver earnings up every quarter, and we'll meet them to the penny,' when they can't do it operationally, they do it with accounting."

On why he divested in Freddie and Fannie in 2000 or 2001:

“...it became so apparent to me that they were intent on trying to report quarterly gains to please Wall Street, and there are all--if you've got the government behind you and you can borrow money in unlimited amounts, you can report earnings for any given quarter that you want to. I mean, the chickens don't come home to roost till later. And the management was intent on that. They started doing things on the asset side they shouldn't have done, they made promises they shouldn't have made, and so we got out.”

make a local choice

2008-09-30T11:12:00.012-04:00

In the current presidential race, a lot has been said about the need for change in government. Recent events in the economy have sparked even more conversation about the need for change. It is important that we talk about change at a national level, but change does not happen from the top down. Actual change happens at the community level. Change happens because individual citizens get involved with their neighbors to make things happen.

Dottie's recent post inspired me to do something in my community. I get a bit overwhelmed when I think about how much I need to do to get involved with my community. First, I have to figure out what community means or who belongs to it. Then I have to figure out what my community needs. And finally comes the action part. But I barely know the names of my two next door neighbors.

As an easy start, I used my Internet search skills to find a website that finds local leaders and positions being contested in the next election cycle. While I work on figuring out my community, at least I can learn about the leaders and make an informed decision on how to vote.

Here's where you can find local leaders:

And here's where you can find who the candidates are in local elections:

World Oil Crisis Averted

2008-06-16T13:28:00.002-04:00

No need to worry about oil shortages, we can all rest easy because bugs are now excreting crude oil. It is amazing what $4/gallon gas can do to the organisms on this planet.

There is however, one problem with making oil a renewable resource. Burning oil makes the earth die, or something like that. The bugs will make oil which we will then burn and that will kill the bugs that make the renewable oil.

Oil situation resolved. Saving planet earth, not yet resolved. I will work on saving the planet next week.

our bumble bee has arrived

2008-03-28T23:31:00.005-04:00

natalie jan was born at 7:42 pm on March 27, 2008. she and her mother are healthy. full story to come. check her out though.

You can't see the business in front, but you can certainly see the beginnings of a party in the back. more pictures here

check this out

2008-03-25T21:51:00.001-04:00

no really, click on the link --> Jitterbug

If they only knew

2008-03-21T15:13:00.002-04:00

The DCist Title was: "Obviously these are not Mormon ladies."

Last Saturday at the Museum of the American Indian:

Three old ladies are talking.

Old lady 1: "It's just a shame that the Native Americans weren't
Christian."
Old lady 2: "I guess they just missed the part of history when Jesus died
on the cross."

Then they all just shook their heads and continued to agree and said things
like "That's just a shame" or "That's too bad."

Another excerpt from DCist: Overheard in DC

baby bumble bee

2008-03-17T11:05:00.002-04:00

Fantastic song, fantastic video, fantastic tapping/dancing bee girl. I can only hope mine will dance this well. Have a listen.

friends

2008-03-14T16:03:00.000-04:00

On the 42 bus in Dupont, heading north:

Three college students talking loudly:

Guy: "He's a weirdo."
Girl: "Is he?"
Guy: "Yeah, he has less than 50 friends on Facebook. Anyone who has less than 50 friends on Facebook has got to be weird!"
Girl: "Yeah, I've got over 400 on my page."

FROM dcist

onesy, twosy

2008-03-13T10:42:00.002-04:00

"onesy, twosy" is officially an acceptable business phrase. "couple", "few", "one or two" are all out. good luck.

just shave your head

2008-02-04T19:14:00.000-05:00

a. are they serious?

b. uncredited gary busey cameo 6 seconds in... so weird

c. bald is beautiful, no need to grow it back

who knew you needed an entire travel SYSTEM?

2008-02-02T10:32:00.001-05:00

you cannot just have a car seat or just a stroller, you have to have a travel SYSTEM. based on my product testing last night, i believe the above travel system to be the easiest to use. no, i did not get into the stroller.

32 seconds in, a ridiculous diving header

2008-01-24T10:45:00.001-05:00

video

ashes to ashes, dust to dust

2008-01-22T10:11:00.000-05:00

do not apply dusting solution liberally, it might get on your wood floor and make it easy to do dancing spins and moonwalks.

celeste does not run on magic fuel

2008-01-16T11:11:00.001-05:00

as i left my place of employment yesterday, i commented to one of my co-workers that my car (celeste) had been running on empty for nearly 4 days and that i thought that i had been given magic fuel that would never run out. 10 minutes later, on my drive home, the magic fuel ran out and i was stranded on the side of the road in the cold.

celeste i am sorry for not giving you real fuel because i thought you had magic fuel which, it turns out, does not exist.

thanks be given to another co-worker who brought me fossil fuel, the kind that cars' engines use to make them go.

rocky mountain low

2008-01-16T10:23:00.000-05:00

i have been trying to find a good youtube video of henry john deutschendorf, jr. (john denver) to express my love for his heaven-and-golden-honey-mixed-serum-of-the-gods voice. i think the pbs infomercial/fund raising video clips of him are the best, when he is singing in some western state amphitheater allowing us a glimpse of what angels must sound like. i still have not found the right video but here is a taste.

if you watched the whole thing you will also notice he broke out in spanish somewhere along the way. fantastic!

and so it begins

2008-01-08T16:38:00.001-05:00

it is because the th's sounds like f's

we've moved

2008-01-02T11:22:00.000-05:00

please visit us at our new address

EDGELLSUPPORTERS.BLOGSPOT.COM

give me a break, i'm still in mourning

2007-11-07T11:02:00.000-05:00

Slight, unimportant internets fallout from our Burch Transcription Services

2007-10-26T14:15:00.000-04:00

The Offside Rules picked up on our Burchie transcription and it seems to have stirred some people up. For the record, we did not intend for a bus to pass over Marc's defenseless body, we just thought it was kind of funny. We'll take his left foot over Freddy's any day.

We continue in our undying love for you Marc... now shorten that service wind up and give Chicago the beat down they deserve next Thursday.

Maybe we need new calls for Burch from distance.

Marc Burch on Freddy Adu

2007-10-24T09:27:00.000-04:00

Marc Burch, The Edgell Supporters current favorite DC United player, was interviewed yesterday morning on The Junkies (Washington D.C. morning radio show). Marc was quite candid on his thoughts about Freddy Adu.

On Freddy Adu (transcribed by Dirty Supporter):

Junkies (EB): Is everybody happy to be rid of Freddy, does anybody talk about Freddy these days?

Burch: We don't really talk about him, and a lot of people are happy to be rid of him. He's a little bit of a cancer in the locker room, we have good team chemistry right now, and I don't think anybody is really missin' him. I don't really care too much about Freddy so...

Junkies (EB): Did you think he was a dick, you never really played with him though right?

Burch: I think his ego is a little bit bigger than he is, he's 5'1" and his ego makes him 7 feet all.

Junkies (EB): Did other guys on the team agree with you, without callin' them out?

Burch: You're friends with your teammates, but it gets to you eventually, people like that, sometimes you can't stand them.

Junkies (Cakes): You're basically saying he's just a diva, who's had everything handed to him by the MLS, and he's not nearly up to the level of his press clippings?

Burch: He's as good as he can be, for his age.

Junkies (EB): Did guys on the team believe his advertised age?

Burch: Uhhh, no comment on that one.

End of transcription. Complete interview audio is here.

We knew there was a reason we like Burchie so much. He also had some really funny things to say about Ben Olsen and Fred (or as the Junkies call him "Fred Nubbins"), the transcribing process is still going on for those quotes.

2007 MLS Playoffs First Round - Leg 1 vs. Chicago Fire

2007-10-22T13:53:00.000-04:00

United finishes out the season at home with the most exciting 0-0 draw I have ever seen against Chicago and a 3-2 loss against Columbus that showcased some very creative attacking from United. Now it is on to the playoffs where DC faces everyone's favorite knockout competition rival, Chicago Fire.

Does the past dictate the future? Do current trends remain constant?

I'm not a big believer in the past dictating the future especially if the participants change. Both DC United and Chicago Fire have new coaches and a mix of new and old players. The past also paints an ugly pictures so let's look at current trends:

September and October MLS records

Chicago Fire (L,W,T,T,T,T,W,T,W) 3-1-5
Goal Differential: +2 (GF 9, GA 7)

DC United (W,T,W,W,T,W,T,T,L) 4-1-4
Goal Differential +9 (GF 20, GA 11)

October MLS records

Chicago Fire (W,T,W) 2-0-1
Goal Differential: +2 (GF 3, GA 1)

DC United (T,T,L) 0-1-2
Goal Differential -1 (GF 3, GA 4)

DCU record head-to-head with Chicago during the MLS regular season 1-0-2

A few notes on these trends. Chicago was fighting for a playoff spot throughout all of these games and therefore was playing with more urgency than usual. DC United was playing to win the Supporter's Shield throughout all but one of these games (which is the only loss) so they were also playing with more urgency, but probably less survival instinct than Chicago. Concerning the head-to-head statistics, we can probably throw out the one win as Chicago was a different team in June.

Now, what does all of this mean? Chicago has been consistent over the last two months including the last 3 games but not overly impressive and DC has been impressive in the last two months but is now in a slight decline. We can be reassured that the decline is not much of a trend as it has been only 3 games and the last game was meaningless as far as winning trophies goes.

Hope and Dreams for the first leg of the first round of the playoffs

1. The injuries heal quickly, wolverine style.
2. Simms shuts down Blanco again.
3. Burch practices his amazing service without a wind up.
4. We get goals in Toyota Park. I don't care who or how, we need away goals to get some momentum going into the rest of the playoffs.

Match 2.29 The Setup: DCU v CHF 10-13-07

2007-10-09T14:31:00.001-04:00

With two games left in the regular season DC is looking to clinch home field advantage and win the Supporter's Shield. Chicago is trying to keep it's playoff hopes alive by staying up with KC and keeping the surging Beckspiracy at bay.

This is the third and final regular season meeting between the Chicago Fire and DC United. DC United won the first meeting at RFK and drew at Toyota Park with the awe inspiring Jaime Moreno/Matt Pickens show.

Unfortunately Jaime will be with the Bolivian National Team this weekend as Bolivia begins World Cup qualifiers. DC will also be missing Bobby Boswell (bad behavior), probably Josh Gros (head injuries again), and possibly Fred (groin). The Fire will be missing Jeff Curtin and Justin Mapp to injury.

Hope and Dreams for Match 2.29

1. The Hunchback of Chicago meets Clyde Simms and is subsequently shut down.
2. Luci and Benny both get goals.
3. Gros gets better and has not done any permanent damage.
4. McTavish goal.

Previews From Our Compatriots

Poplar Point Perspective

Match 2.28 The Result: DCU v KCW 10-5-07

2007-10-09T14:13:00.000-04:00

DCU 1 KCW 1

Considering all the facts, we looked pretty good I thought, just no finishing, but then neither did KC. We need to close on the opposing attack faster to hurry their decision making. We are still in the hunt for the Supporter's Shield but Chivas is right there with us.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.28

1. It appears that teams are now keying on Emilio and physically abusing him, we need Christian to really get going so we can take advantage of the focus shift.
2. I arrived in time and we were all disappointed in the result.
3. 14K showed up... KC to St. Louis! At least 14K looks more crowded in a soccer specific stadium.
4. McTavish did not score, however, he looks very comfortable out there in any of the positions he plays.

Match 2.28 The Setup: DCU v KCW 10-5-07

2007-10-05T18:51:00.000-04:00

Condensed Preview: 1st of three matches against playoff hungry teams. KC has behavior issues, DC has injury issues.

Hope and Dreams for Match 2.28

1. Emilio notches another towards the DC single season goal scoring record.
2. I can get to my mom's house in time to see the game... thanks Cox.
3. More than 10K show up to the game in KC.
4. McTavish goal, header preferred.

Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1b The Result: DCU v. Chivas de Guadalajara 10-5-07 Second Leg

2007-10-03T00:36:00.000-04:00

DCU 0 CDG 1

Aggregate: DCU 2 CDG 2, CD Guadalajara wins with the only away goal

"We Are the Champions" anyone?

For all the talk about going out and playing our game and taking the game to Chivas, we sure looked liked we were bunkering for a 0-0 draw. Not that I blame Soehn for the strategy but when you give the other team that many opportunities, something is bound to find the back of the net. We needed to play perfect defense and while we did a decent job, we let one ball bounce around in a dangerous area for too long. DC United waited until it was absolutely necessary before we put anything into the attack, by that time we didn't have a lot left in the tank.

We missed Fred and Burch. Burch would've given a little more to the counter with his service and Fred would have been a nice sub in or out for Gros in the 60th to put more energy on the pitch. I really would have liked the win or at least some combination that allowed us to advance, but I have to admit I'm not all that broken up about it. Back to the Supporter's Shield and the MLS Cup.

Facts and Reality for Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1b
1. We adjusted fine to the pace of the match, but if your bunkering, something is bound to go in.
2. Nothing special was about right, we didn't do enough...
3. Mexican clubs still rule in Mexico.
4. McTavish had a few decent shots, maybe Burch has awoken the defensive striking beast.

Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1b The Setup: DCU v. Chivas de Guadalajara 10-5-07 Second Leg

2007-10-02T17:07:00.000-04:00

The second leg of the round of 16 match up between DC United and CD Guadalajara. Burch is out with a red card, Fred is possibly out with injury, Namoff is banged up a little but I expect him to be able to go. The Goats lost their coach between the last time we played them and now. A loud, hostile crowd in a big stadium in Mexico. We'll have to come out and strike early to have a chance.

I start my statistics class tonight (wish me luck) so I'll be getting home just in time for the tape delay at 11. Vamos United!

Hopes and Dreams for Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1b

1. We adjust quickly to the pace of the match.
2. Nothing special, just that we do what it takes to advance.
3. A US club win in Mexico.
4. McTavish header.

Match 2.27 The Result: DCU v TFC 9-29-07

2007-10-01T09:59:00.000-04:00

DCU 4 TFC 1

I brought a friend to this one and at halftime I was worried that between our lackluster play and seats behind the press boxes I might have brought him to the wrong game. United did decent with the pace and control of the game in the first half but we certainly were not making the most of our chances. Kpene still can't finish, though I still want to think there is something there because he puts himself in the right places. Troy got caught again on a keeper side free kick... that can't happen anymore.

Olsen and Moreno came in at half for Gros and Kpene. The difference that those two make on the field is unbelievable. The Supporters often talk about what will happen when they are gone, but we have yet to come up with any solutions. I hope we get a few years with them as super-subs when they can no longer go the full 90. Back to the game... with Olsen in, Fred goes to his more comfortable left flank and starts to inflict damage on Toronto. The equalizer comes in the 52nd on a back heel from Fred to Burch at the corner of the box and then Burch sends a laser in for his first goal. BURCH FROM DISTANCE! Then Fred takes his chance from nearly the same spot as Burch in the 57th and puts a beautiful shot past the keeper. And the goals continued with Jaime scoring in the 66th on a great ball from Clyde Simms and then Emilio finished us off in the 70th with an insane rebound left foot sky volley... whatever it was, it was amazing. 4 goals in 20 minutes to come from behind and win. So it turns out this was a good first time match. Hopefully we can bring them back again.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.27

1. We were the better team but we waited until the second half to show it.
2. Fred gets an assist and a goal and Emilio gets #20.
3. The infield was not gone yet, but we are getting close.
4. Burch from distance!!! Like a laser rocket.

HDNet, thanks for allowing us to have the highlights this time.

Match 2.27 The Setup: DCU v TFC 9-29-07

2007-09-29T15:58:00.001-04:00

Toronto Fried Chicken comes calling at RFK with pretty much only the draft in mind. I guess crashing DC United's Supporter's Shield Party would also be a decent consolation prize. DC will not be overlooking Toronto as they need the points to continue on the path to the Shield.

United will be at full strength while TFC will be missing Sutton (GK), Dichio (F), and O'Brien (M) which are some of their better players. I want to see us get back to our goal scoring ways. The stadium should be packed and the weather will be beautiful, see you at RFK.

Hope and Dreams for Match 2.27

1. We are the better team and we show it.
2. Fred and Emilio get back into the swing of things.
3. The new, non-infield grass is down.
4. Burch from distance. As noted by Fullback Files, we should probably start a pool on this.

One last note:
MLS and DC United, you should thank the unavailability of HDNet because that is the reason we felt compelled to go tonight. We are sitting in terrible seats thanks to procrastination on my part and what I'm guessing will be a huge crowd.

Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1a The Result: DCU v. Chivas de Guadalajara 9-26-07 First Leg

2007-09-27T10:56:00.000-04:00

DCU 2 Chivas 1

Pace:
It took DC United about 25 minutes to get adjusted to the pace of the Chivas game. Namoff had a particularly difficult time adjusting, but once he did, he hung in there just fine until the injury. Gros and Carroll came on as subs and also found difficulty keeping up with the speed and flow of Chivas.

Goals:
Great blind strike by Olsen and beautiful dummy by Emilio. Simms earned his goal in a very Ben Olsen fashion by cleaning up a deflection.

Defense:
As previously noted it took DC awhile to get used to the speed and once we did we went down a man. With all the shots Chivas had we did a good job to only let one in. The one goal we did let in was a collective breakdown from the cross to the box to the net.

Chivas:
Quick and creative. They really use the whole field, but their crosses and finishing leave something to be desired... and I'm ok with that.

Atmosphere:
A lot of fun, lots of fans from both clubs and lots of beer in the air on the second goal.

We will be out Burch for the next leg and we will be in their house. It will be hostile, but I think that, considering their weaknesses in the attack, we can bring it to them. We know their pace so our time needed to acclimate ourselves to their game should reduce dramatically in the next leg. Hopefully we won't be playing a man down again either.

Facts and Reality for Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1a
1. 2 goals on 5 attempts, not as many as I would have liked, but we won. At least we are efficient... right?
2. Possible injury to Namoff, but I don't think it was serious.
3. Considering the number of people at the game the the traffic was very light on the way to RFK. We cheated and went through Alexandria though.
4. Simms and Olsen both from a bit of distance, but no Burch from distance. Burch got a first yellow that I never saw and a second yellow that was soft, especially for a second yellow, but I guess I can see it.

Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1a The Setup: DCU v. Chivas de Guadalajara 9-26-07 First Leg

2007-09-26T12:12:00.000-04:00

The fierce rivalry between the US and Mexican soccer continues in the Copa Nissan Sudamericana. Chivas de Guadalajara (the Real Chivas) and DC United face off in the round of sixteen. The last time the two teams met, Chivas de Guadalajara defeated DCU 3-2 on aggregate in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and although both teams participated in SuperLiga 2007 they did not get a chance to meet.

The feelings about this match are expressed quite well in this episode of Access United.

Basically, we owe them one. Come out tonight and sing our boys to victory.

Hopes and Dreams for Copa Nissan Sudamericana 2007 Match 1.1a

1. Lots of goals so we can go to Estadio Jalisco without the pressure.
2. No injuries that will damage our MLS hardware chances.
3. Light traffic on the way to RFK.
4. Burch from distance.

Match 2.26 The Result: DCU v Chicago Fire 9-23-07, The Supporters First Road Trip

2007-09-26T12:07:00.000-04:00

DCU 1 CHF 1

So much to say but not much of it has to do with the match itself. We squeaked a point out of the match with the miraculous cross/strike by Jaime. Our backup midfield is about as good as our backup strikers and that is to say, not that good. I will report on the trip itself later but time prohibits me at this point.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.26
1. I don't think we necessarily fell asleep we just didn't have the right tools.
2. Jaime brought the control but he had to fall way back to get it leaving Emilio up top alone. Simms entry into the game helped us get forward a little more.
3. Getting a point out of this game was a miracle.
4. Burch looks like the long season is getting to him, can we rest him?

Match 2.26 The Setup: DCU v Chicago Fire 9-23-07, The Supporters First Road Trip

2007-09-23T10:57:00.000-04:00

Coming to you from downtown Chicago. The weather has been beautiful for the last few days and Chicago is a fantastic city.

After a two hour delay at Dulles we got to our hotel in Chicago just in time to catch the last ten minutes of MLS Prime Time Thursday . Chicago looked slow and tired but consistent. Let's hope they are still tired today. The stakes of today's game are a playoff spot for Chicago and the Supporter's Shield for DC. United will be missing their midfield today as Olsen, Fred, and Gomez all sit for yellow cards. We still have Moreno and Emilio up top so our attack should be ok, but we'll have to fill in the other holes.

We are on our way to Toyota Park so I will catch you all this evening. Vamos United!

Hope and Dreams for Match 2.26
1. We have not fallen asleep during our 10 day rest.
2. Jaime brings the control to the game so we don't miss our starters so much.
3. 3 points while on a road trip would be amazing.
4. Burch from distance.

Final word on the Ben Cup

2007-09-19T18:18:00.000-04:00

After days and days of deliberation we decided that we did not want to use behavior as a deciding factor and the Ben Cup is indeed a tie. The Cup itself remains in Utah until DC claims it next year.

RSL Ben's take on it.

Match 2.25 The Result: DCU v RSL 9-12-07, second leg of THE BEN CUP!!!!!! [UPDATED]

2007-09-13T09:06:00.000-04:00

DCU 2 RSL 1

We played well enough for the win, but not quite enough for the Ben Cup. Let's take care of Ben Cup business first and then we can talk about the match. The Ben Cup Series ends in a deadlock with both teams scoring 2 home and 1 away goal for an aggregate of 3-3. Because the result is unprecedented I believe that, as much as it saddens me, we have agreed to leave the Cup in Salt Lake City for the next year. The Ben Cup Executive Committee still has to work out some of the details, but it appears that neither team has won Ben Cup 2007. Maybe we can go to the count on fouls committed, which, after last night, will undoubtedly go to DC (aggregate 45-24). Or maybe attendance. After the Bens have an after-Ben Cup meeting, I will report back on the happenings and the decisions. I know you are all desperately awaiting our decision.

On to the match itself. 3 games in 7 days is tough. 7 points in 7 days is phenomenal. A beautiful Wednesday night with a smallish, but ruckus crowd. RSL gave us a lot of space throughout the game but especially to start the game. The space created a lot of chances but nothing we were able to put in, it seemed like we were having some bad luck. Then Gomez hooked up with Emilio for his 19th goal of the campaign. I have watched the Beckerman goal a few times to see who is at fault. Boswell obviously hesitated to defend, but how did he have THAT much room in the middle of our side of the field? Where were Carroll and Gomez? I'll have to watch again. A bunch of fouls, offsides calls, and a blocked PK later, Fred hits Gomez for a header that was almost a mirror image of the earlier Gomez to Emilio goal. Then the ref tried to keep RSL in the game and Perkins came up with a huge save on the questionably awarded PK.

I don't think I have been this frustrated with the foul calling since last season. Last night seemed awfully one sided. How does Devon McTavish get body slammed by the neck by Carey Talley and then RSL gets awarded a PK? It's a simple question, anyone have an answer? According to MLSnet Team Totals DC leads the league in fouls committed at 434 with Toronto being our closest competitor at 391 (Dallas 374, Colorado 370). Is it possible that we ACTUALLY foul that much more than the other teams in the MLS? Are we dirty? I'm willing to concede the fact that I am blinded by my fanaticism, I just want someone to confirm that we are 64 fouls dirtier than Colorado.

Obviously we need to rest people and we need to find another striker so I can't fault Soehn's lineup. Carroll started instead of Simms, Boswell instead of Vanney (still not sure who owns that position), and Kpene was in for Moreno. Olsen and Gros started on the wings, Fred came off the bench for Kpene at half. We didn't look lazy, but more like there just wasn't a lot left in the tank. Christian looked particularly quick out there though, which was a nice change. Both he and Fred ran at the defense a number of times in the second half with a lot of speed.

According to Dirty D Supporter, Kpene is "irrelevant, a non-factor." I think that is a bit harsh, but probably only because I still have hope that he will be a factor. He gets pushed off the ball far too easily and is not doing the basic stuff right, like pulling the trigger when he gets close.

One of the pleasant surprises was Brian Carroll's aggressive play, it was nice to see that, although I don't think it lasted very long. That could be because he faded or because I stopped paying attention to him specifically, I still need the objective DVR view of the game.

Esky is class and deserved the cheer from the supporters as he came over to chat after the game.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.25

1. A tied Ben Cup?
2. How is it possible to draw a Cup game?
3. They should have gone to extra time and then a shootout
4. Burch still didn't get a goal, but one of his crosses last night bent at a ridiculous angle.

Match 2.25 The Setup: DCU v RSL 9-12-07, second leg of THE BEN CUP!!!!!!

2007-09-12T10:30:00.000-04:00

The most prestigious sporting competition involving DC United and Real Salt Lake (unless RSL ever makes the playoffs) kicks off tonight at Estadio RFK in DC. This is it, the big game for the Cup. With the Cup being currently forged in the depths of Sandy, Utah, both teams will be pumped to get their hands on it. United faces an uphill battle as they sufficiently overlooked Real Salt Lake in the first leg of the competition and find themselves down 2-1. A goal differential of positive 2 is the only way to take the Cup back from RSL.

RSL will be coming in full strength and having won 3 of their last 6 matches. With the addition of the three Argentines, RSL are actually starting to show signs of a soccer team. Who knew? This may be a bad thing for them though because DC will not so easily overlook them. United will be missing Jaime Moreno, who has been called up to Bolvian National Team duty, but the rest of the team, including Josh Gros, will be ready to go. This is the lineup I'd like to see:

Perkins

Namoff-McTavish-Boswell-Burch

Simms

Olsen----------------------Gros

Gomez

Fred-------Emilio

We will see you all tonight at the game.

Other previews of the Ben Cup:
The Royal Review (RSL Ben )
The Poplar Point Perspective

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.25

1. Winning the second Ben Cup competition, DCU's first.
2. The Ben Cup
3. The Ben Cup
4. Burch from distance.

The Ben Cup: Leg 2

2007-09-12T10:16:00.001-04:00

Match 2.24 The Result: DCU v. NE Revolution 9-9-07

2007-09-09T15:48:00.000-04:00

DCU 4 NER 2

There was a different feeling about this game. DC seemed very cool and collected. They looked like they really enjoyed being home. They looked so calm that after they went down 2-1, I thought for sure they were giving up. I was wrong and I'm happy about it.

-McTavish returned to the starting lineup. He always seems to be in the right place to keep goals from going in.

-Gros is back from the head injury/migraines. His fresh legs were a godsend. And maybe it was just me but was Joshua Gros getting creative out there? Little creative touches and such.

-Emilio was holding his own against the physical play of New England. My only complaint with Emilio is that he can't hold the ball and he gets knocked off the ball too easily, not so in this game.

-Olsen came in to the game for an exhausted Fred and immediately widened the field.

-Soehn made defensive substitutions at the right time and we still scored more goals.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.24

1. DC returned to form with only small lapses of judgement.
2. The midfield had moments of dominance and with the number of games we've played in the last week, that's saying something. It was nice have Gros' fresh legs in there.
3. Twellman scored one of those that he always scores, urghhh.
4. No goal for Burch and he seems to need a few stutter steps to hit those crosses, not that I'm complaining, just an observation.

Match 2.24 The Setup: DCU v. NE Revolution 9-9-07

2007-09-08T21:39:00.000-04:00

I guess from here on out all of the matches are important for Supporter's Shield standings, but not all of them are against Supporter's Shield contenders like this one. This match will determine superiority in the East and in the MLS.

New England comes into RFK after a rest week and winning their last two MLS matches (KC and RBNY). DC comes home riding a 7 game unbeaten streak that started beating New England at home 3-0. This is DCU's third game in 9 days and they already looked mentally tired on Thursday against Chivas. In order to win this game they will have to find the energy to do the small things right and especially make smart passes.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.24

1. The last 60 minutes of the Chivas game were an aberration and DC returns to form.
2. Midfield dominance. We live and die by the way these guys play both in the attack and on defense.
3. Twellman doesn't score.
4. Burch from distance.

Match 2.23 The Result: DCU v. Chivas USA 9-6-07

2007-09-06T20:39:00.000-04:00

DCU 2 Chivas USA 2

MLS Primetime Thursday started at 11:15 PM this evening. Who knew 11:15 PM was considered "prime time"? I was starting to have a nervous breakdown as I frantically refreshed Soccer Insider for updates, refreshed the match tracker on MLSnet, and listened to an endless loop of adds on WMET 1160 AM in hopes of hearing something... anything. Goff came through with the first report of the 3rd minute strike by Luciano "It's in the net" Emilio.

First Half (starting in the 9th minute due to above debacle): DC controlled most of the first half although they looked a little disorganized. Moreno was able to send a nice ball to Emilio for his first goal. Moreno also contributed to Emilio's second strike, as it was Moreno's blocked shot that got away from Guzan that Emilio put in the back of the net.

The turning point in the game was the odd Perkins clearance turn Razov deflection and subsequent goal. Before this goal Chivas looked somewhat lost and uninspired. The goal gave them new life at the end of the first and into the second half. DC seemed content to allow the new found inspiration by not winning 50/50 balls, making bad passes, and giving way too much space to the attack. Chivas' goal in the 60th was the result of a 10 minute complete loss of form and team defense. From that point, our offensive attempts consisted of short fallen crosses from the back which created one chance, a Burch to Olsen to Emilio string of passes. Soehn was obviously looking for the draw when he added Brian Carroll in the 76th. With a defensive sub we should have shut down the match, but we insisted on letting them have space and time with no counter of our own.

Just a few final thoughts. Our team speed is slow, or our team is slow, however you put it, in comparison to Chivas USA we lack speed. Chivas exploited our slow defense and never allowed us time to recover between attacks, credit goes to them for that. I'm not sure if it was the speed issue again, but we were not winning balls. DC did not get to the ball fast enough and when they did they got muscled off. We also took a few steps back with our team passing, a lot of bad passing from everyone, not hard enough, too hard, no previous thought before passing, we saw it all tonight.

There are a few good things to take from this. We saw what the other hot team in the MLS looks like. We might need to prepare for them in the playoffs. A draw like this should motivate us to remember the important, basic things like team defense, passing, and winning balls.

Bring on New England.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.23

1. 1 point, from the way we played, I'll take it.
2. Both goals from Emilio and it is good to see him get the goals he so badly wants. What's this talk of him leaving in December and being the highest paid DC player?
3. A hard match I wanted, a hard match I got. We started as the dominant team and ended as that inconsistent team from 6 games ago.
4. Burch's left footed crosses have officially been added to the DCU repertoire.

ESPN sucks (See: late start, feed going out, too many shots of players/coaches/allen hopkins instead of the match).

Match 2.23 The Setup: DCU v. Chivas USA 9-6-07

2007-09-03T13:11:00.000-04:00

DC goes up against, the undefeated at home (7 wins, 1 draw), Chivas USA in a match that has Supporter's Shield written all over it. DCU stands at the top of the league with 1.91 points per game while Chivas sits well within striking distance at 1.80 with two games in hand on DC. Both DC and Chivas have been playing good soccer in the last month, I expect this to be a continuation of form and an entertaining match.

With Maykel Galindo up top for Chivas, DC's back line will have to be careful not to get caught up too high because he likes to burn people with his speed. Galindo, Razov, and Kljestan are all scoring threats but also know how to distribute the ball with 17 of the team's 34 assists coming from the trio. I believe that Clyde Simms will have the most important defensive role in tonight's match. In the last few Chivas' games most of the scoring threats have come right down the middle of the field. Clyde will need to frustrate the Chivas' attack early and the back line will have to continue to play the smart, team defense they have been playing.

On the offensive side of things, we need Fred to keep hassling defenses allowing Christian more space to distribute and taking the focus of Benny so he can play cleanup. I'll be looking for Luci to score so I can see him smile again. A win tonight puts us in the Supporter's Shield driver's seat.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.23

1. 3 points=Supporter's Shield is ours to lose.
2. Fred and Benny keep the goals coming.
3. This is going to sound weird, but I'd like us to have a harder time winning this match to get us back to reality. What if reality is complete domination?
4. Burch from distance.

The Fullback Files

2007-09-03T13:07:00.000-04:00

You must check out this week's Table Talk over at The Fullback Files... the descriptions of the Galaxy are hilarious.

Match 2.22 The Result: DCU v. FC Dallas 9-1-07

2007-09-01T22:59:00.000-04:00

DCU 4 FC Dallas 0

Ben Olsen is the Garbage Man. He cleans up any stray ball bouncing around in the box and puts it where it belongs, in the net. He caught Sala in a bad position early and then closed out the half by putting a blocked shot back into the goal. Christian Gomez added to the box cleansing by smashing a Dallas defense deflection back into the net by way of volley, beautiful strike. Fred is starting to make a habit out of cutting back across the top of the box and then taking a shot. This is a good thing. The way he works the cut back is the perfect misdirection and usually gives him time to put something on frame. Tonight it worked and he scored. On the night DC had 6 shots on goal and 4 goals, that's offensive efficiency.

Now on to the more important part of the game, another clean sheet and this time with Boswell in. This means we have depth at defense, but not only do we have depth we have clean sheet depth. The first 15-20 minutes were a bit of a struggle but everyone pulled together at the back to keep the ball out of the net. Even with all the offense Dallas was throwing at us early, they only managed 2 shots on goal. That means Perkins is no longer carrying the load and that the attack is getting shut down early. The one good chance Dallas had was thwarted by Boswell's clearance on the line.

So the attack got the job done and the defense continues to frustrate opponents. The only complaint is that in the first 15-20 minutes the midfield allowed too much through defensively, but even that was cleared up. A final thought... not that it needs to be said again, but Marc Burch is an assassin with his service from the back.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.22
1. No backup strikers were needed, all subs were of the defensive nature.
2. I'm not sure the chemistry of Los Cuatro (Moreno, Emilio, Gomez, Fred) was really that great, but the chemistry of the team as a whole was beautiful.
3. I feel avenged and good inside.
4. Burch almost had one from distance, but it was nothing in comparison to his crosses that created all kinds of danger tonight and resulted in at least two of the goals.

Match 2.22 The Setup: DCU v. FC Dallas 9-1-07

2007-09-01T16:00:00.000-04:00

Sickness is spreading among the supporters so I have to make this quick and keep moving. This match is about the Supporter's Shield. DC gave up a 3-0 lead to draw with Dallas at RFK in the last meeting. DC is without Gros and maybe Emilio. Dallas should have Toja back after almost a month without him and Denilson is available to play.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.22

1. A backup striker scores, don't care who.
2. Progression is made with the chemistry of Los Cuatro (Moreno, Emilio, Gomez, Fred).
3. I really want to avenge that draw at RFK. It would make me feel right inside if we can get the three points.
4. Burch from distance.

Antonio Puerta

2007-08-28T16:17:00.000-04:00

I don't watch a lot of Spain's La Liga, but on Saturday I picked a fateful match to watch, Sevilla v. Getafe. I saw Antonio Puerta go down and his teammates rush to his side. It was a surreal experience. I don't know very much about Sevilla or Antonio Puerta, but I was very sad to hear the news of his death today. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Match 2.21 The Result: DCU v. TFC 8-25-07

2007-08-25T23:24:00.000-04:00

DCU 1 TFC 0

This was the funniest game I have ever seen. It was stressful until Fred put his shot away and then it just became laughable. It looked liked a contest to see which team could give the ball away more. I have never seen so many balls passed to someone or something out of bounds. Terrible, sloppy play. Slide tackles that didn't even come close to the ball. I swear one time a sliding Toronto player came up short on the ball and continued to scoot along the turf to get to the ball. The Edgell Supporters were literally laughing out loud during most of the match. Toronto even broke the most minutes without a goal record previously belonging to RSL. Congratulations.

I know turf is supposed to make the game faster but the ball and the players looked extra slow tonight. It looked like the players on both sides couldn't get their feet moving because the turf was too soft (or maybe wet according to Max Bretos or Christopher Sullivan). Toronto had a lot of possession but they were less than dangerous with it. A lot of their service went wide or out of bounds. DC looked quite disorganized to begin the game but the defense played well enough to keep themselves out of danger. When Moreno came in DC at least started to show some form and string a few passes together. Maybe I'm sleeping on how much possession Olsen brings to the game because our midfield was unable to hold on to the ball for any decent amount of time.

For inquiring minds, the actual lineup (substitutions):

Perkins

Namoff-McTavish-Vanney-Burch

Simms

Carroll-----------------Fred

Gomez (Mediate)

Addlery (Kpene)-Dyachenko (Moreno)

We won on the road with three regular starters out and Moreno sitting for the first half. We kept a clean sheet which means we haven't given up a goal in the run of play in 5 games. We beat a team we were supposed to beat. These are all good signs even with the lack of chemistry on the night. On the other hand, we need to find someone besides Emilio to score goals and Olsen to keep possession (Am I off on the Olsen=possession theory? Does Carroll=the opposite of possession?).

Side note: Add Carl Robinson to the dirty players list.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.21

1. Kpene looked a little more creative than he has in awhile, no goal yet though.
2. Fred and Gomez didn't really work together, but then nobody really worked together until sometime in the second half.
3. Three points, not particularly beautiful, but three points it is.
4. Burch didn't have a lot of opportunities so we're still waiting for his goal.

Match 2.21 The Setup: DCU v. TFC 8-25-07

2007-08-25T10:19:00.000-04:00

The easy supposedly easy points are never easy for DC United. If we want to make a run at the Supporter's Shield, we have to pick up the easy points. In comparison to what we've done over the last four MLS matches, today's match at Toronto FC should be easy points. But again, the easy points are not always a given for DCU.

To make the situation more difficult we will be missing several starters. Gros is still out with the concussion and will be until he gets back from the specialist in Pittsburgh. According to Goff, Olsen and Emilio did not travel with the team so they will also be unavailable. Toronto on the other hand should be returning some of their players that have been out over the last few weeks. I believe that both Dichio and Cunningham should be back for the TFC attack. Not that those two are amazing strikers, but they'll be hungry for goals.
[UPDATE: Jeff Cunningham will not be playing due to season ending surgery.]

If Dichio plays we need to have Boswell's physical play on the back line. I'd like Boswell in no matter what, but if TFC is without Dichio I'd be ok with Vanney given his current form. Other than that I don't think we need to change much up except to replace the starters that are out. The lineup I'd like to see is:

Perkins

Namoff-McTavish-Vanney or Boswell-Burch

Simms

Moose----------------------Fred
Gomez

Moreno-Kpene

If we take this match lightly I think we go down a goal early but we pull it back and settle for the draw. If we come out prepared and ready to kill we will be able to put this match away shortly into the second half.

Come on ya Black and Red!

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.21

1. Kpene puts it in the net.
2. Fred and Gomez continue to work together, I really feel if those two continue to develop chemistry we could see some magic.
3. Three points, anything less than three from this game is a disappointment.
4. Burch from distance.

Thursday Night PrimeTime Warm Up

2007-08-23T20:00:00.000-04:00

I got out of class early tonight and as a warm up for Thursday night PrimeTime, ESPN Classic is showing the Red Bull v Galaxy goal fest. I didn't get to see it the first time so this is a pleasant surprise.

[UPDATE]: Preempted by WNBA, you have to be kidding me. Little League World Series on ESPN2 pushes WNBA playoffs to ESPN Classic. I guess live comes before replay. I was really enjoying the game.

The Edgell Supporters featured on BobbyBoswell.com

2007-08-23T13:43:00.000-04:00

At last night's game an MLS record was broken by DCU's Jaime Moreno. Jaime is now the proud owner of the MLS scoring record at 109 goals. To commemorate the event BobbyBoswell.com featured a picture of the Edgell Supporters.

Ok so we weren't exactly featured, although they did have the good sense to show El Goleador in his entirety and only show half of my face.

Match 2.20 The Result: DCU v. RBNY 8-22-07 The Atlantic Cup Leg 3 (of 3)

2007-08-22T22:53:00.000-04:00

DCU 3 RBNY 1

Felicitaciones Abuelito Moreno! Numero 109! A PK, but 109 nonetheless.

The crowd was louder than I have ever heard and there were A LOT of people there for a Wednesday night game (it is hard to be objective sitting in 234 row 5, right behind the Barra).

We came out and dominated and finished in the first 20 minutes. The RBNY PK took a little wind out of our sails but we continued eating up possession and controlling the game. I have not yet watched the game in an appropriate manner to analyze it, but here are a few observations:

-Simms is always around on defense. He is cleaning up the ball in all sorts of situations. Not much help in the attacking third, but I'll give that up for a defensive mid that plays defense.

-Burch didn't have the best game but his service is still beautiful. He also had some acrobatic plays on defense.

-We need the scrappy, hustling Ben Olsen in all games, not just against NY. Even in this game he kind of petered out in the second half. If he can't always go in the hyperactive mode, maybe Moose can be that guy. We will really need someone in the next few years that can take on that role.

-Dane Richards was dirty last night.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.20

1. Another great performance from Benny, an assist and a goal, he loves to show up to beat RBNY.
2. Los Cuatro (Moreno, Fred, Gomez, and Emilio) are even passing together during warm ups, this is a very good sign. Oh and they dominated the first 20 minutes of the game. Keep it coming
3. The Atlantic Cup is ours again.
4. Burch got an amazing ball from Gomez but couldn't put it away, if this keeps up, Burch will be on the score sheet eventually.

Match 2.20 The Setup: DCU v. RBNY 8-22-07 The Atlantic Cup Leg 3 (of 3)

2007-08-22T14:06:00.000-04:00

This is the third and final fixture in the Atlantic Cup with DC and NY splitting the previous two meetings. Both teams won at home but DC leads the aggregate 4-3. With a tie or a win DCU takes the Cup again. I'm finally starting to develop the requisite DC Supporter hatred for NY. I think it has something to do with them being so close to us in the Eastern Conference table. It makes them an enemy. Usually I dislike individual players on a team, but this is something special. I think because of the table proximity, just the name New York Red Bulls has stuck in my head as something I don't like.

It's been more than a month since the Edgell Supporters last visited RFK to watch FC Dallas come back on our 3-nil lead. We will be in attendance tonight, albeit in smaller numbers (just El Goleador and I). A Wednesday night game will probably need as many loud voices as possible, so we're coming to help.

DC will be missing Gros who is out with another concussion and he may not be back. Cautions have not yet bitten us but we have a bunch of guys one or two cautions away from suspension. I expect over the next few weeks we will see some guys getting MLS mandated games off. Not that I care, but the entity known as RBNY is missing some injured guys. None of them are named JP or Jozy though so we'll be facing the full strength RBNY side.

I'm glad that Soehn has seen that Vanney and Boswell are the ones that should be fighting for starting spots and that the other three are earning their place each week. Does Boswell get the start so he and Jozy can go at it again? I hope so. I'm a fan of individual rivals like the Burch/Schelotto match last week. Assuming that Simms gets the start again (which is the wise decision), the only other lineup change will be Olsen instead of Gros, bone spurs for a concussion. Seems like an alright trade. I think we will miss Gros's work rate tonight but Benny's rancor towards RBNY should make up for it.

Come on ya Black and Red!

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.20
1. Benny repeat performance. The hat trick might be a bit much, I'll take a brace.
2. Los Cuatro (Moreno, Fred, Gomez, and Emilio) build upon their teamwork from the Columbus match.
3. The Atlantic Cup
4. Burch from distance.

Match 2.19 The Result: DCU v. Columbus 8-18-07

2007-08-18T21:36:00.000-04:00

DCU 2 Columbus 0

Great strike by Fred, I mean an honest to goodness golazo! Great play by Fred to set up Emilio's opportunistic goal on Hendrickson's friendly assist. We had good possession and control of the game tonight. No major defensive lapses but there was a little too much space in the midfield for the Columbus attack.

Three straight wins and all clean sheets, not bad at all. I don't want to jinx it, but in league play we look to be improving at the right time. We are not quite peaked, which is a good thing, but we are definitely on the upward climb.

Simms is an upgrade at defensive mid because of his distribution (not always perfect but better than Carroll) and his ability to shut a lot of stuff down coming through midfield. I hate to say this because of what it means, but we did not really miss Boswell tonight, Vanney was decent playing in his spot. Vanney = Boswell?? I don't know but I think the other three on the back line are there to stay.

Moreno, Gomez, Emilio, and Fred all played together tonight. Between injuries, international call ups, and mental absence I don't think the four of them have had enough time to learn to play together. Tonight they looked like they liked each other and they knew where the next move in the attack would be. With more time together and getting over egos (that's just my guess) we could have an unparalleled attack.

I like the win on the road and the style of play. Even more than those things I like where we are headed. I think for the first time DC has given me sustained hope. Such a wonderful and dangerous feeling.

Olsen sitting out on this one will hopefully have him ready to go next Wednesday against RBNY. We'll need energy and motivation to win that one. Come on ya Black and Red!

Facts and Reality for Match 2.19

1. Nothing for Moreno, but I feel it coming.
2. Our touches and passes weren't perfect, but definitely an upgrade from the last match. Long stretches of possession gave us control of the game and made it possible to kill time at the end.
3. Not a complete unleashing of the attack but close to it. We CAN score goals.
4. Burch did not score from distance, but man is he a revelation at the back.

Match 2.19 The Setup: DCU v. Columbus 8-18-07

2007-08-18T12:19:00.000-04:00

In the year of our Lord Two-thousand and seven on the fourteenth day of the seventh month (7-14-07) the mighty DC United sinned against the soccer gods, settling for a draw after going up 3-nil on FC Dallas.

In the year of our Lord Two-thousand and seven on the eleventh day of the eighth month (8-11-07) the not so mighty Columbus Crew with the actually mighty Barros Schelotto committed the greater sin by allowing FC Dallas to take the full 3 points with a late goal in the 92nd minute.

Based on these most recent results math tells us the following:
FC Dallas = DC United
FC Dallas > Columbus Crew
Therefore DC United > Columubs Crew, right?

Tonight, the two sinners face off for the second time of the 2007 season. The first meeting was during United's 4 game winless season start and went to Columbus 1-0. The Crew, while not spectacular, are mounting a steady campaign towards the playoffs. United on the other hand are at times spectacular and other times less than spectacular. We'll call them inconsistent.

If we can disrupt Schelotto's distribution (8 assists on the season) we should at least be able to control the Crew attack. The problem we will have is finishing, not because of the Crew defense but because that is what United's problem is, the attack. I'm fairly confident the backline of Namoff, McTavish, Boswell, and Burch will handle the back as long as Simms is starting over Carroll in the defensive midfield position. Gomez has got to show something today for the attack or we might be better off with Dyachenko or Fred in his spot. At this point I don't believe Dyachenko or Fred are better footballers than Gomez but they seem to fit better in the team. Maybe even Moreno should be playing the 10 spot. I hope that Gomito finds his fit but I'm not holding my breath.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.19

1. Moreno takes the record with # 109.
2. First touches and passing are not our weakness. (This was a big problem in the LA SuperLiga match)
3. An unleashing of the attack potential I know DC has somewhere. I'd like to see 3 or 4 goals.
4. Burch from distance.

SuperLiga Match 1.4 Semifinals The Result: DCU v. LAG 8-15-07

2007-08-16T00:08:00.000-04:00

DCU 0 LAG 2

The first 25 minutes were all DC. We controlled, strung a few balls together, Jaime had a humorous attempt on goal from midfield, and barely escaped an ugly yellow card meriting Beckham tackle. Then it happened. Did Perkins not know who was taking that free kick? First name Bend It, last name Like Beckham, Sir Goldenballs himself. Perkins looked lost. I'm no keeper. I'm scared of the ball. Maybe I just don't get it, but usually keepers only jump the wrong way on PKs. Then we just fell apart and the next 20 minutes were some of the ugliest I have seen in a long, long time. Neither team could pass the ball, put together an attack, or refrain from fouling. I'm not sure what happened. It was sickening. Oh and Moreno got pushed pretty hard in the box, no call. Just sayin.

More nausea to begin the second half. Goldenballs to Receding Hairline. Bleh! I wonder if the game plan was to damage Martino, mission completed. Dirty, dirty tackle by Carroll, maybe that's why he started over Simms. He was a hit man. Beckham leaves the game and Posh Spice gives us the double hand royalty wave... huh? The second half was just as ugly as the first. A lot of hard fouls and not a lot of the beautiful game. We could not put anything worthwhile together and we looked juvenile. I don't even know if juvenile is an accurate observation, but that's the word that keeps coming into my mind. The other word is petty. That is probably because Dirty D Supporter is convinced that DC is cliquish and segregated. According to her, none of them are friends. Seems as good an explanation as any.

We lacked the organization necessary to beat the circus act. We couldn't settle our nerves in that atmosphere and once we lost what little game we brought we never really found it again. I don't mind losing when we the other team is better, but it really bothers me when I feel like we were the better team. Farewell SuperLiga, back to the quest for the MLS Cup.

One final thought, the Home Depot Center was empty to start with, but filled up nicely and got really loud. Good for them.

Vanney Rant:
Vanney is slow. Vanney is bad on the ball. Vanney fouls when he gets beat. Vanney should not play. All I can see him saying after the first half is, "Dude... did you see how I totally passed it to Beckham and then he touched it.... so awesome..."

Facts and Reality for SuperLiga Match 1.4 The Semifinals

1. Nothing went in early, less went in late.
2. Simms didn't get the chance to show why he is starting over Carroll because he didn't... that was a mistake.
3. Boswell made a run that really only could have been finished by a diving header, but that's what he gets paid to do right? Sacrifice all. I think a diving header would have put that ball in the net.
4. Kpene got chippy with Xavier, not a goal, but I don't mind someone giving a beating to that white haired freak.

Ok, definitely the final thought. We need to look into orchestrating some kind of collision where Xavier and Vanney hit each other and spontaneously combust, never to return to the earth.

SuperLiga Match 1.4 Semifinals The Setup: DCU v. LAG 8-15-07

2007-08-15T15:53:00.000-04:00

My favorite Beckham commentary.

The Galaxy are tired after a long road trip and a lot of games. They are missing Gordon, Jazic, and Gray to accumulated cautions. I still don't feel like this will be an easy one. I expect LA to come back home to the Home Depot Center and give it all they got. The SuperLiga may be their only chance to claim silver this year and I expect that they are well aware of this.

With Burch out on accumulated cautions and Moreno and Gomez not completely healthy Soehn will have some decisions to make. If Gomez can go I see Gros dropping back to fill in at left back instead of starting Vanney. Moreno and Kpene will both partner with Emilio up top and the rest of the lineup should be the standard.

Whether Beckham actually makes a difference or not, I always get the feeling that the other guys on the team want to impress him. They step up their game when he is around. DCU will have to find a way to remove the motivation and hope. I don't think it will take much... a couple early goals, suffocating defense, or a Beckham no show should do it. In any event, we will have to come out and show something to get the job done, this won't be a walk in the park.

Hopes and Dreams for SuperLiga Match 1.4 The Semifinals

1. We put one in early and a second one in late to finish the deal.
2. Simms shows why he is starting over Carroll.
3. Boswell makes some more of those runs we were seeing a few games ago.
4. Kpene scores.

Match 2.18 The Result: DCU v. LAG 8-9-07

2007-08-15T15:38:00.000-04:00

DCU 1 LAG 0

Just a real quick review before we move on to SuperLiga. DC looked especially solid in the first half but still couldn't put a lackluster Galaxy away with authority. The killer instinct we saw in the Revolution game needs to make more appearances. The hopefully permanent addition of Burch and McTavish on the back line and the Brian Carroll replacement, Clyde Simms have shored up our problems on defense. So we are finding form as we head into the last part of the season and we are doing it without MVP Gomito, what does that mean?

Facts and Reality Match 2.18

1. RFK rocked ESPN2's microphones, I was sorry I couldn't be in the packed house.
2. Emilio scored again on a scorcher from outside the box.
3. The audible booing of Beckham was a welcome relief from the Beckham Blitz. I know it is sacrilege but David the Ankle shouldn't expected to be worshipped EVERYWHERE he goes.
4. No goal yet, but a great ball from Burch set up Emilio from distance.

Match 2.18 The Setup: DCU v. LAG 8-9-07

2007-08-09T15:26:00.000-04:00

Here we go, here we go, here we go. Beckham is in town and I am not. I'm blogging from Utah in a Barnes and Noble and because they don't provide any power outlets I'm on a short electric leash.

The Galaxy's performance in SuperLiga shows that there is some improvement from the team but nothing to get too excited about. DC's SuperLiga play sparked them to a 3-0 win over the East leading Revolution. The Galaxy always get up for a game at RFK, Beckhampallooza or not. The inconsistent United will need a strong showing tonight to prove their path back to consistency.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.18

1. RFK rocks ESPN2's microphones.
2. Emilio scores again.
3. Beckham's pleas for grass only are heard by the commissioner.
4. Burch from distance.

Match 2.17 The Result: DCU v. NE Revolution 8-5-07

2007-08-09T15:14:00.000-04:00

Better late than never right? I'm on borrowed time (both internet connection and battery) so we'll make this quick. I only saw the goals as I am still in Utah but I plan on watching the DVR edition when I get home on Saturday.

Facts and Reality 2.17

1. Twellman did not score, nor did any other New England player.
2. We got all three points.
3. Emilio scored two goals and one was off a creative pass from Kpene. I like Kpene's style and creativity.
4. No goal for Burch but started and created. Quickly becoming my new favorite.

Oh yeah, I attended the RSL/Houston game last Saturday. RSL not only won, but they could have won by more because they missed on several chances. Houston's packed schedule aside, RSL controlled the game in its entirety. Way to go Reds!

Match 2.17 The Setup: DCU v. NE Revolution 8-5-07

2007-08-03T00:49:00.000-04:00

New England is starting to pull away in the east, DC is not starting anything, they are content middle-tablers. DCU needs to get points out of this weekend or we will start to think of Chicago and Toronto as our closest competitors.

That's all I have for this weekend, I'm on vacation in Utah. I'll be in the SLC this weekend (and throughout the next week) checking out the RSL v Dinamo game, come on ya Reds! Off to Cafe Rio for me.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.17

1. Twellman does not score.

2. Points, points, points. That's plural. That means three.
3. Emilio scores.
4. Burch scores from distance. I'm still testing the waters but he might be my Erpen replacement, no official word yet.

DC United goes through to the next round of SuperLiga

2007-08-02T00:11:00.000-04:00

DCU is the beneficiary of America's 3-2 win over Morelia and advances to the semifinals of SuperLiga against LA Galaxy. They can't score 6 goals again right?

SuperLiga Match 1.3 The Result: DCU v. Dynamo Houston 8-1-07

2007-08-02T00:03:00.000-04:00

DCU 0 Houston 1

We looked quite tired in the first half. With the exception of Burch's limited long service and Kpene's ball into the box there wasn't much of an attack. We didn't use the wings at all and we didn't have any runs from the back. Obviously the narrow field has something to do with that but we played into their game plan and let them clog the middle. Defensively we did enough to keep them from scoring and got some luck on DeRo's miss.

In the second half we started out with a little more energy and offensive effort. Then almost as soon as we looked to be getting control of the match, the defense got caught on their heels on a great Jacqua/Ching combination. We continued to put pressure on Houston throughout the half and Jaime's presence gave us more control over the match. Two problems: Moreno didn't pull the trigger and Boswell missed a sitter.

Houston is good. They finish. DC is not bad, but we do not finish. I worry a little about our fitness as Houston has also played the same number of matches recently but didn't look nearly as tired as we did. Come on you Aguilas!

Facts and Reality for SuperLiga Match 1.3

1. In two hours we will know if we advance based on the Morelia v. America result, stay tuned.
1a. [UPDATE] America 3 Morelia 2. DC advances.
2. I don't like Ching, but that was a nice left footed volley.
3. How did Boswell miss that sitter in the box?
4. Emilio isn't back yet, we need someone to finish.

[UPDATE] America v Morelia Bonus Coverage

Could they wear more similar colors? It took me awhile to figure out who I was pulling for.

17th minute - America scores.
54th minute - Morelia goes a down a man with a straight red to Mauricio Romero as he fouls while being the last defender. America is awarded a PK.
56th minute - America scores the PK. America 2 Morelia 0
67th minute - Morelia pulls one back. America 2 Morelia 1
73rd minute - Morelia draws even. America 2 Morelia 2
85th minute - Thank the soccer Gods, America scores again. America 3 Morelia 2
90th minute - 4th official gives 4 minutes of stoppage.
94th minute - That's it. America wins. DC is through.

SuperLiga Match 1.3 The Setup: DCU v. Dynamo Houston 8-1-07

2007-07-31T17:36:00.000-04:00

DC United and the Houston Dynamo have posted identical results against their Mexican rivals in Group B, both beating Club America 1-0 and both drawing with Morelia 1-1. DC and Houston have split their MLS regular season meetings, each team winning at home. Houston has not lost a regular season game since May and DC is hoping that the SuperLiga will help them return to form.

Houston should be at full strength except for the injured Brad Davis. DC should have Namoff, Kpene, and a limited Moreno back but Moose will still be out with his sports hernia. According to the SuperLiga discipline report DC has no ineligible players while Houston's only ineligible is Brian Mullan.

Unlike the Mexican clubs, Houston knows how to frustrate DC by clogging up their narrow field and man marking Gomez out of the game. DC's creativity from the back (hopefully we'll see more of it in this game) should help loosen up the midfield. This will be a fight for possession so any playing time that Abuelito Moreno gets will be integral to our success. If all else fails we can just hope for a Morelia tie or loss.

Hope and Dreams for SuperLiga Match 1.3

1. By some combination of events we advance to the next round.
2. Brian Ching does not score.
3. Boswell walks the walk as he has already talked the talk.
4. Emilio gets back on the score sheet.

SuperLiga Match 1.2 The Result: DCU v. America 7-29-07

2007-07-29T23:17:00.000-04:00

DCU 1 America 0

In the first few minutes of the game Burch reminded me of what we miss with Namoff out, creativity from the back. Not only did he have a run up the line but he stayed with it and had a great cross into the box. Then in the 16th he makes another creative run and almost has a goal from it. We have missed that kind of play from the back. Burch continued in the second half with another great cross. Then Boswell started getting into the action and made several, though unproductive, runs. Having offensive threats coming from the back does wonders for our creativity and danger.

The first half was excellent. We controlled the game and we were constantly dangerous. We won the loose balls. Gomez looked much better in this match than he has in quite some time. Maybe that is due to the space he was given to work with, or maybe he just wanted it a little more. He certainly looked like he wanted a goal. Obviously in the second half Soehn changed his game plan (which worked, but I didn't like, I complain below) to protect the 1 goal lead. We continued hustling to the loose balls and played through the fouls.

Speaking of fouls, referee Carlos Batres was very close to completely losing this match. The fouls were hard and often. There were more infractions on the part of America but we had enough of our own that went uncalled. It wasn't so much the competitive advantage that the non calls created as it was the physical danger on the field that bothered me. There were some vicious blows out there. At one point McTavish wasn't even looking at the America player that went up for a header when he just threw his arms and body into the guy. Maybe Drew Carey was right, soccer really is a violent game.

My complaint with our performance is that we still don't have the killer instinct to put a game away when we have the momentum. Why didn't we press, when we were a man up and dominating possession? Why were our first two subs defensive? It's almost as if we had forgotten that just four days ago we were a man and a goal up and we gave up a late goal to only get the tie. This appears to be more of a coach's tactical decision considering the entire team's unwillingness to go forward late in the second half. Enough complaining, we won and we are still in the race for the SuperLiga Championship.

Facts and Reality for SuperLiga Match 1.2

1. Three points.
2. A backup striker scored. Very nice strike Dyachenko.
3. DCU didn't ruin the MLS unbeaten streak in this Mexico vs. USA competition, LA did last night.
4. We weren't mediocre, we have found a bit of a spark.

SuperLiga Match 1.2 The Setup: DCU v. America 7-29-07

2007-07-28T19:06:00.000-04:00

After giving up this gem (at the 2:32 mark in the video) and settling for just one point a few nights ago, DCU comes in against Club America needing at least a draw. Knowing very little about the Mexican clubs, America should be a more difficult opponent than Morelia from name recognition alone.

Maybe we don't need to score SO early that we lose sight of the game in the later minutes. We'll have to keep our heads about us for the full 90 to get the draw in this one. Although maybe we need the victory now and hope for a point against still hot Houston. I really would like to see us advance in this competition. Our chances? I think that without a healthy Moreno (or another striker stepping up) our chances aren't very good. Either way, we'll be pulling for DC to regain form and continue their string of firsts by winning the first SuperLiga. Come on ya Black and Red!

Hope and Dreams for SuperLiga Match 1.2

1. A point.
2. Still want to see something from the backup strikers.
3. DCU doesn't ruin the MLS unbeaten streak in this Mexico vs. USA competition.
4. Some hope that we are not going to continue in mediocrity.

Vino is a doper?

2007-07-25T11:48:00.000-04:00

I don't want to believe it, but with the current state of cycling I'm not sure I can not believe it. What is a Tour fan to do in this situation? The sport is a showcase of human endurance and will. It is amazing to see the riders compete day after day for three weeks. The Rasmussen/Contador show in the Pyrenees has been fantastic. But what if it is all a lie? What if they are all cheating? What are the options?

According to a survey, Italian fans favor legalizing doping with banning media coverage of the sport coming in second and stopping the sport for one or two seasons to get rid of the dopers coming in third. I guess those would be the options, you can legalize it, you can stop the sport, or you can take the money out of it by banning the media from covering it. None of those seem right to me, but the only other option is to keep going with what we have and catching dopers in the act during the Tour de France is just going to further damage the sport.

I guess we can enjoy Vino's mountain stage win until we find out he was doping there too. Just focus on the scenery and the atmosphere, absolutely electric!

SuperLiga Match 1.1 The Setup: DCU v. CA Morelia 7-25-07

2007-07-23T13:15:00.000-04:00

SuperLiga makes sense. The soccer rivalry between Mexico and the United States is intense on the national level, why shouldn't we let that spread into the club level? I'm excited to see how the MLS clubs perform against the Mexican clubs. This is an important step in growing the league internationally. The exhibitions against Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Celtic are fine for entertainment but are a poor representation of how we stack up next to those top leagues. The timing and importance just aren't right. Although SuperLiga will feature Mexican clubs in preseason form, there is money to be won which should raise the importance of the games.

DCU plays CA Morelia tonight. I don't know a lot about Morelia except for what wikipedia can give me. We will know a lot more after tonight.

Benny and Fred with both be available but we will still be missing Moreno, Namoff, Kpene, and Moose. I'd like to see Burch in the back with Gros back in midfield. I'd also like to see Olsen drop back into defensive mid and Carroll on the bench.

Hope and Dreams for SuperLiga Match 1.1

1. We take the competition seriously.

2. The SuperLiga matches spark something that continues into our MLS regular season.

3. Balls coming from the back are sent to a DC player.

4. No miscommunication between Perkins and the back line. We don't need Perkins slipping into his unhappy place again (See: post-CONCACAF Perkins).

Match 2.16 The Result: DCU v. RBNY 7-21-07 The Atlantic Cup Leg 2 (of 3)

2007-07-23T11:47:00.000-04:00

DCU 0 RBNY 1

This one was no fun at all. I think it was about the 25th or 30th minute when I said to my wife, "This is how it is going to end, 1-nil." We didn't get to the loose balls first. We showed no real danger and even when we had chances we could not finish (Gomez and Addlery being the most significant non-finishers). I think the turf is particularly hard for Fred who couldn't keep the ball at his feet.

The defense wasn't terribly bad but the miscommunication on the goal is happening a lot more with Vanney than it was with Erpen, just sayin'. The highlight at the back was that Burch was a reliable option, one match isn't enough to judge him on but it is certainly a good place to start. It is time to looking for a new option at holding mid, Carroll and Simms both just don't have what it takes. Just about everything we sent up from the back was to a New York player.

At this point in the season we have been consistently average and I don't expect us to snap out of it down the stretch. When we have our best 11 on the field I think we are above average (just right above average nothing to get excited about) but we can't count on having everyone in all the time. Somehow we have to get better play from the bench because the crowded schedule will not allow our first 11 to go all 90 in every match.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.16

1. Addlery... ugghh.
2. Three points was definitely a dream.
3. Perkins and his back line still don't have things figured out, another soft header went in.
4. Erpen scored!!!! Not from distance but a header to tie the game against KC.

Don't call it a come back, he's been here for years

2007-07-21T17:14:00.001-04:00

60+ stitches in his knees and elbow, a 9 minute deficit off the yellow jersey, and a slick rainy course could not keep Alexandre Vinokourov down in today's stage of the Tour de France. Vino took the stage win in the individual time trial today beating the closest competitor (Cadel Evans, Team Predictor-Lotto) by 1 minute and 10 seconds. He closes his lead on the yellow jersey (still with Michael Rasmussen who had the time trial of his life today) to 5 minutes and 10 seconds. Starting with tomorrow's stage the next three stages are in the Pyrenees Mountains where we will see Levi Leipheimer make his attacks if he is going to do it at all. By Thursday we should know who will wear the final yellow jersey in Paris next Sunday.

Come on Vino!

Match 2.16 The Setup: DCU v. RBNY 7-21-07 The Atlantic Cup Leg 2 (of 3)

2007-07-20T15:04:00.000-04:00

This is the start of the grind we have been looking forward to all season. MLS regular season, Superliga, and Copa Sudamericana all come together over the next 2 months (no Open Cup appearances as we bowed out of that one already). We are starting the grind off by taking on Red Bull New York tomorrow in New Jersey at Giants Stadium.

RBNY will be missing JP Angel for his red card last week but Jozy Altidore will be back from his U20 World Cup duty and looking to help his struggling team. DCU will be missing Benny Olsen to yellow card accumulation and Moreno, Moose, Kpene, and Namoff to injury. DC's depth will be tested this week.

New York comes in with only 2 wins in their last 8 games while DC has won 4 of their last 8 even though their form has been suffering. After the breakdown against Dallas I am worried that we have lost a little bit of our edge. Moreno definitely sparked the offense and he is out. Olsen is the heart of the team and he is out. With Moreno and Kpene out we will probably see Addlery or Dyachenko up top with Emilio. Olsen's replacement could cause more problems because Moose is out as well, so we might see DeRoux on the flank or Burch at the back and Gros back up on the wing.

New York will be looking to avenge the 4-2 Benny Olsen hat trick loss in June so this won't be an easy one. We will have to see something from the reserves if we want to steal the three points on the road.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.16

1. The backup strikers put something in the net.
2. All three points. I might actually be dreaming on this one.
3. Perkins can trust his back line enough to not come out so much.
4. Erpen scores from distance against KC.

Tour Update

2007-07-18T09:06:00.000-04:00

It appears as though our favorite for the Tour will have to wait until next year to have a chance at the yellow jersey. Injuries sustained from a crash in the 5th stage, including deep gashes in both knees which needed stitches, kept Vinokourov from staying with the leaders in yesterday's 9th stage. He starts the 10th stage 8 minutes back from the leader which will probably prove to be too much. We are crying with you Vino.

Now I guess we will pull for the climber Rasmussen (Team RaboBank) to build a big enough lead in the mountains that it will hold up through his below average time trialing skills.

Match 2.15 The Result: DCU v. FC Dallas 7-14-07

2007-07-16T09:11:00.000-04:00

DCU 3 FC Dallas 3

This felt worse than any loss I have experienced to date.

For the first 50 minutes I couldn't believe what was happening, we were actually going to dominate a decent team. We scored early and then added to our lead. There were a few breakdowns in the defense, but Perkins was able to take care of them. Vanney was making tackles to stop the attack. The one troubling thing throughout the first 50 minutes was our inability to keep possession. Dallas had more possession and more control throughout the game and it finally paid off in the last 40 minutes. I still haven't re watched the game (we were at RFK) so I'm not exactly sure how it happened but the defense and Troy Perkins got abused.

Was it Brian Carroll (who seemed scared to give any help on offense throughout the game)?
Was it the lack of speed from Boswell and Vanney?
Was it the dependence on Gomez to defend (which he did quite well in the first half and then kind of decided to only play offense in the second half)?
Was it the Moreno for Kpene substitution (which I'm hoping was just a bad day for Kpene or I will never call for Moreno to leave the pitch again)?

I'm guessing it was a little bit of everything but I plan to rehash this one on DVR sometime this week.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.15

1. Moreno didn't score but his assists were beautiful.
2. Vanney.... ugh.
3. Everything was free, including the 3 goals we gave to Dallas for free.
4. Colorado didn't play this week, that gives Erpen time to practice his long range bombs.

5. I hate Ruiz.
6. Is it just me or can Toja jump unnaturally high?

Match 2.15 The Setup: DCU v. FC Dallas 7-14-07

2007-07-13T08:54:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday the 13th!

The Edgell Supporters will be attending the game at RFK thanks to Intelligence Careers and PWSI (where El Goleador currently plays his soccer). Even the mother supporter will be in attendance for this one (maybe she just wants to get a good look at JC Toja, I know I do).

This will be DC's first chance at the 2006 Supporter Shield Runner-ups FC Dallas. Here at the Edgell Supporters we like to watch FC Dallas and we really like Kenny Cooper (God rest his injured soul) and JC Toja. The funny thing is we tend to like teams a lot better before we play them (See: Houston, even when we beat them) so FC Dallas may not stay on our good side for long.

DC is coming off a loss to the league's hottest team and a poor showing in the USOC, so a loss this week will look like a down turn in the season. On the positive side, most of our starters have had a full week of rest so we should have Olsen, Moreno, and Boswell back at full strength. Namoff and Kpene's (Moreno's 60/70th min sub in a perfect world) injury status will most likely be a match day decision. The lineup should look like this:

Perkins

McTavish - Boswell - Vanney - Gros

B. Carroll

Olsen--------------------------Fred

Gomez

Emilio - Moreno

FC Dallas has great defensive play from its midfielders Toja and Ricchetti which will require us to be dangerous up the middle and on the flanks. We are going to need some good production from the trifecta up top so that the flank play from Fred and Olsen will make a difference. On the defensive side we will have to watch out for Oduro's speed and of course flopping from El Pescadito Ruiz. We looked pretty frustrated against Houston last week and Ruiz would love to add on to that. If we keep our heads on straight (I look for Carroll and Gomez to be the main targets for Ruiz) and brush off the bad calls we should be able to take care of things on defense.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.15

1. Moreno breaks the record in the run of play.
2. Vanney works his way into my heart with his amazing play at the back.
3. Free tickets, free food, free love.
4. Erpen from distance.

last night's soccer

2007-07-12T09:42:00.000-04:00

DCU 0 Harrisburg City Islanders 1
DC is out of the Open Cup. From the radio broadcast it sounded like we had possession most of the game but we gave away possession on bad touches and couldn't get our shots on frame. I haven't decided whether or not I care about the Open Cup but my disappointment is that we lost to a USL2 team. Oh and also that we didn't score a single goal. This does not bode well for the reserves offensive production. Does USL2 pay better than MLS reserves? Now if the Islanders can just beat New England.

I listened to the match on the Harrisburg station for a bit until MLSnet got their act together. While I appreciate the Harrisburg station's attempt to keep us updated, Tony Limarzi for MLSnet did an infinitely better job.

Argentina 3 Mexico 0
Having spent a couple of years in Argentina, I almost always pull for them, Mexico being their opponent just made it that much more enjoyable. The highlight of the match for me was this kung fu kick goal by Gabriel Heinze. So sweet...

How scary is it that Messi is only 20 years old?

Los Gringuitos 2 Uruguay 1 (U20 World Cup)
Speaking of U-20s, the US beat Uruguay in extra time, it wasn't pretty but we got the job done. You don't always have to win in the same ways with the same players, you just have to win. That being said, I hope Altidore and Seitz are injury free for the next match.

Match 2.14 The Result: DCU v Dynamo Houston 7-8-07

2007-07-08T23:37:00.000-04:00

DCU 0 Dynamo 1

There are some games where you can just feel like we don't have it in us. There was no danger or urgency in our game and Houston knew it. The fact that my wife commented on how many Houston players were back on defense says it all (and she fell asleep shortly into the second half). They clogged up the middle of their narrow field and we had nothing going for us on the wings. Offensively, there were very few strings of passes, although I do remember one rather lengthy possession that appeared as though DC thought they were up a goal and killing time. Between the loss and homework that's all I have in me tonight, on to the reality...

Facts and Reality for Match 2.14

1. We didn't steal a point, we didn't steal anything, we barely broke into the house and when we did we weren't really interested in taking anything.
2. The defense... I'm not sure if it was better or worse but we sure look unorganized out there.
3. In my book credit for the goal goes to Mulrooney, Ching is a cherry picker.
4. Still no luck for Erpen with Colorado, if he continues to play at center back it may take a long time for this wish to come true.

The Tour

2007-07-07T13:20:00.000-04:00

Week in and week out the Edgell Supporters follow DC United but throughout the year there are a few other special events that demand our attention. The first of those events is the Tour de France.

After all the doping suspensions and forced retirements the Tour starts this year without a previous champion and without a clear favorite. The open field with few favorites will give us an exciting race from start to finish.

We are a patriotic group so we always support the American riders and Team Discovery. America's hope for winning it all this year rests with Levi Leipheimer (Team Discovery). We can probably expect a stage win from Americans George Hincapie (Discovery) or David Zabriski (CSC). The Edgell Supporters favorite rider is from Kazakhstan, Alexander Vinokourov (Astana). In the cycling world Vino is known as an aggressive and non-traditional rider because of his solo attacks and willingness to take on anyone or any team. Along with Vino the other top riders in this race are Leipheimer and Alejandro Valverde (Caisse d'Epargne).

For all of you non-Tour enthusiasts (I can't imagine there are many Tour watching readers) I encourage you to watch some of the mountain stages and sprint stages. Some of the most exciting moments in sports come from the attacks mounted in these stages. There are 4 races within the race with winners in the youth (white jersey), climber (polka-dot jersey), sprinter (green jersey), and team classifications. There are also awards for the most aggressive and attacking riders.

The tour begins today on the Versus Channel (used to be OLN) with coverage in the morning and in the evening. 189 riders, 21 team, 20 stages, and 23 days.

There is something on besides baseball. Watch the Tour.

The Royal Review

2007-07-07T13:12:00.000-04:00

RSL Ben is finally gracing us with his Internet presence on The Royal Review. He'll give you RSL game breakdowns and Ben Cup coverage from the other side. Good to have you on Ben!

Match 2.14 The Setup: DCU v Dynamo Houston 7-8-07

2007-07-06T14:12:00.000-04:00

The last time Houston lost was on May 26, 2007 at RFK against our own DC United. Since then they have won 6 out of 7 and outscored opponents 15 to 3. During the same time period United has won 4 out of 6 with a scoreline of 13 to 6.

Houston will be missing deadly free kick artist Brad Davis and possibly the #1 at keeper, Pat Onstad. DC will probably still be missing Boswell, Olsen, and Moreno to Copa America duty and Kpene and Namoff to injury.

Judging by current form and our road record, DC is in for a very tough match. Houston is coming off a 4-nil win against RBNY and DC just stole three points from an Eddie Johnson-less Kansas City. Houston will no doubt aim to abuse the disorganization of our back line. Brian Carroll, Fred, and Moose will have to step in to slow down the attack before it gets too dangerous. DCU will need to continue to attack the wings to free up space for Christian in the middle and he will have to use that space effectively if we want to get on the board.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.14

1. We steal a point against a hot team on the road.
2. The defense shows some sign of coming together.
3. Ching does not score.
4. Erpen scores from distance.

Match 2.13 The Result: DCU v KC Wizards 7-4-07

2007-07-04T21:53:00.001-04:00

DCU 1 KC 0

We got the first winning clean sheet of the campaign. It was ugly but we earned the win.

DC started out pretty hot with a few opportunities right from the start. Then we got unorganized and lost form. The back line looked exactly like what we should expect from the patchwork it was put together with. I like Simms at D-mid, but I do not like him on the back line, he gave away too many balls and just looked like he didn't know what he was doing. In his defense, he probably doesn't know exactly what he is doing and he didn't get help from the rest of the defenders. Things got back on track with Fred's pass to set up Emilio for the goal right before half. There weren't a lot of good chances for DC after that and even with all the shots from KC we were still able to hold on for the win.

We acquired Fred for assists and Emilio for scoring, they both did their jobs today. We gave up a lot of shots and relied heavily on good play from Perkins and McTavish to bail us out. Sometimes individuals have to step up in order to get the win and that's ok.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.13

1. It was Vanney's first game with DC and it showed. I'm willing to give him a few more games before I resume my questioning of the trade.
2. I called for the clean sheet and it was delivered. Good work boys!
3. Moose's hustle and flow look like they burned him out by half, but I still admire the work he is doing out there.
4. At the time of publishing this Erpen had not yet scored, BUT he still has another half of a game tonight and another on Sunday to score.

The Hate

2007-07-03T19:20:00.000-04:00

I-66 got me thinking a little while back by commenting:

"So let me get this straight... your least favorite team isn't Red Bull
New York?"

As I have made reference to before, I am a fairly new DC United fan. I am completely committed to supporting the Black and Red, but I struggle with the requisite hate of Red Bull New York. I get the geographic thing and it's always a worthwhile pursuit to make fun of things from New Jersey. The problem I have is getting behind the competitive rivalry thing. Taking all 2006 matches into account we beat them 4 times and tied them 3 times which included a two legged aggregate win in the playoffs.

Most of the time I hate teams in the MLS because of the individual players on the team. I can't even get that going for me because there aren't any NY players that I hate. There are several candidates but none of them quite measure up. If Markus Schopp were any good he could be the one. Maybe Jozy Altidore could grow into it. I don't have the history with Quaranta but now that he is in NY he will definitely be a front runner. One hard foul from Mathis and I could be totally converted. But for right now I don't dislike any of them enough for it to translate into hate of RBNY.

New England on the other hand tied us twice and beat us twice in 2006, including their victory in the Eastern Conference Final. I hate them for that and we haven't even approached their roster. Dempsey and his rapper antics alone were enough but the Revolution boasts other easy to hate players like Twinkie Twellman, Franchino (mostly from last year), Heaps, Joseph, and Reis (from his Esky battery in 2005 that I only know about secondhand).

RSL won the first Ben Cup. The Fire beat us enough and have CJ Brown on their team. The Rapids beat us once, tied us once and they have the long haired Beckerman and Hernandez. Not to mention the keeper Coundoul and stinky Mastroeni. The Edgell Supporters often talk about smell-o-vision when watching sporting events. We tend to rate players by their level or type of smell. Mastroeni reeks of pastrami and the guys that worked for the moving company in Germany. The Colorado locker room is probably the most fragrant in the league. I digress...

The points is, there are many teams that I have reason to dislike or at least I have given myself reason to dislike. RBNY just hasn't given me a reason yet.

All of this being said, heaven knows that I have enough hate in my heart to be spread around pretty thick. I'm sure I can reserve a special spot for RBNY. I'm just going to need some time to work on it. I just hope the hate doesn't come because they are more competitive.

Match 2.13 The Setup: DCU v KC Wizards 7-4-07

2007-07-02T21:52:00.000-04:00

This is the last Eastern Conference game for both Kansas City and DC before the all-star break. Three points earned is three points taken away from another top team in the East. This is probably the most important game of the first half of the season for both teams.

Eddie Johnson punished us in the first go around but he will be on duty at Copa America. DCU is still missing their call ups as well as Namoff and Kpene to injury. DC gets their first look at Vanney on the back line. DC has adjusted to missing players in previous games and I expect the adjustments to go a little more smoothly in Kansas City.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.13

1. Vanney shows us some of the experience we are supposed to be getting from him.
2. The first winning clean sheet of the season.
3. Moose's hustle and flow pay off in the form of his first MLS goal.
4. Erpen scores from distance. (Facundo, we prefer you in black, but we're still pulling for your long bomb)

allow myself...to introduce myself

2007-07-02T16:28:00.000-04:00

At the request of THE Edgell Supporter, I'm going to work on exploring what I might be able to bring to the blog. Since my interests usually pertain mostly to gossip and drama, of which I should keep my nose out of, I might have trouble. I've yet to be able to tap into the personal side of DC United, except the small amount I know from my own insider. But, the least I can do is introduce The Edgell Supporters to those of you who don't know us, and might like to know more.

I (Diana or dirty supporter) am from NOVA, not Utah. I was an easy sell on loving the black and red since I have a connection to all 3 Carroll brothers, we grew up in the same neighborhood, and went to the same schools (and if I remember correctly, Pat was the first person I ever heard call someone a douche....funny moment on the bleachers of WSHS). I do shower regularly, but was given the nickname dirty from some Michael Jackson loving older "sisters"(great song). I've never played soccer, and I'm a girly girl when it come to sports (I love that Kali follows U of U gymnastics), but I'm shallow and these players are nice to look at. Benjamin wasn't lying though, my family does live in Utah, and that even happens to be where we got married 2 years ago.

Benjamin (Edgell Supporter) grew up anywhere and everywhere and has, from my knowledge, always loved soccer. He already gave a little background on how he came to know the black and red, but don't let him fool you into thinking it's all about the sport, he also thinks some of the boys are cute.

Andrew (El Goleador) is Benjamin youngest brother and probably the proudest of our small group. His soccer team just cleaned up in their league, and we hope he's famous someday so we can sponge off him.

We have other supporters that come in and out. We might be able to convince them to share their stories in the future.

the damage is done so i guess i'll be leaving

2007-06-29T12:17:00.000-04:00

Facu is gone. Good luck in Colorado. The 24 hour period of mourning commences now.

Erpen gone? A Sad Day for the Edgell Supporters

2007-06-29T00:03:00.001-04:00

First it was Matias Donnet leaving us after last season and now Goff says we may send Erpen to the Rapids. I just can't seem to keep a favorite player around. I love Erpen. We all love Erpen. His mistakes, his bicycle kicks, his beautiful tackles and his goals from distance will all be missed. But for real... Erpen for Vanney? I don't see how this benefits the back line at all. We drop a promising young defender for some old guy? I hope the front office has something else in the works that makes more sense. I don't like this at all.

Facundo,

We still want you as our Valentine. Please don't leave us. We will start a team for you to play on. We probably won't be able to pay you very much money but we have a lot of love. If you have to go, don't go to the Rapids. Of all the places in the world only New England could be worse (I know I should say New York, more on that later).

With all of our love,

The Edgell Supporters

Match 2.12 The Result: DCU v Colorado Rapids 6-28-07

2007-06-28T21:43:00.000-04:00

Thursday night soccer is not going to be my friend through the next few months. I obviously had my priorities skewed when I signed up for a nonprofit and municipal accounting course on Thursday nights. Tonight was an especially bad night because of DVR space limitations. We had the DC game from 7-9, US game from 9-11 and then So You Think You Can Dance from 9-10 (I know, I know). It could have worked out perfectly except for the weather. SYTYCD took priority once the rain delay started. Luckily I got out of class early so I could convince my wife to switch to the game between commercials. Enough with the DVR household politics, we got the full three points.

DCU 4 COL 1

The field looked awful tonight. We can't get our own stadium soon enough, I guess I will settle for getting the Nats out of RFK.

DC United got off to a slow yet not terrible start. In the first part of the game the back line was trying to send too many balls up the field and not building the attack through the midfield. We eventually warmed up to playing our game of control. Christian's PK solidified our existence and gave us the confidence to play for the win. At the 60th we really hit our stride. We were consistently dangerous from that point on. Goals from Addlery (off a corner), Fred (not sure how), and Emilio (great finish from a Gomez assist) secured the win in impressive fashion.

We definitely need more time working the reserves into the lineup. We beat a mediocre team. That is a heck of a lot better than losing to a really bad team. Good work boys.

A few notes on individual players:
Simms sent a lot of balls into the wrong direction or to the wrong team, although none particularly dangerous. I'll give him a pass on his "clearing the ball means blasting it as hard as possible" philosophy because he is building our depth at the back. Erpen's gaff was his "pedestrian" (according to Wynalda) moment as he played audience to Peterson's header. Perkins looked quite acrobatic in goal even on the one that went in. He had an outstanding game. Moose is a scrapper and a hustler, which equalized his giveaways. And how about that creative little chip to Emilio. Due to the rain delay and DVR complications I did not get to see Fred's goal but I am so happy that he got his first. Now he can get the second, third, fourth, etc.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.12

1. Simms, Moose, and Addlery were enough. I'm not prepared to call them sparks yet, but they were enough tonight.
2. The Rapids continue their struggle.
3. Gomez did alright. I particularly liked his effort coming back on defense.
4. If Erpen doesn't score from distance, nobody scores from distance... we just allow headers.

Quote of the game: "That's for me to know and for you to find out." -Tommy Smyth

Match 2.12 The Setup: DCU v Colorado Rapids 6-28-07

2007-06-28T00:13:00.000-04:00

I don't like the Rapids. They come second only to the Revolution on my list of most disliked MLS clubs. I don't like Hercules Gomez, Beckerman, whatever their keeper's name is, Mastroeni, and I especially don't like Clavijo. They just look dirty to me. That might just be Mastroeni's presence but it might have something to do with Clavijo's hair as well. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm pretty sure he sports the skullet (what is a skullet? answer here). Not that there is anything wrong with that.

I'll make this quick because it's late. Colorado is missing some of our favorites (Beckerman and Gomez) that have been called away on Copa America duty. DC United is also missing a few (Moreno, Olsen, and Boswell) and could possibly miss Namoff to injury. Since beating us in the season opener the Rapids have been spotty at best and come to RFK on a 4 game losing streak. Excluding last week's performance against RSL, DC has found their form and have shown that they are one of the best in this league. We will have to rely on our reserves against Colorado so this game will be a good measure of how we will perform down the stretch when our boys are tired, caution ridden, and injured.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.12

1. We find a spark with one of the reserves that steps in for our boys on Copa America duty.
2. We don't allow another struggling team to make their comeback at our expense.
3. Gomito is having another quarrel with his lover apparently. When Christian isn't happy, nobody is happy. Here's hoping for at least a love note from whoever keeps breaking his heart. And a note from the Edgell Supporters to the heart breaker, Christian is a great guy, he's pretty hot, and I'm sure he cooks a delicious asado, give him another chance.
4. Erpen scores from distance.

DC United Open Cup Draw

2007-06-26T21:52:00.000-04:00

According to the US Open Cup website the Harrisburg City Islanders have defeated the Ocean City Barons 2-1 in the second round of the US Open Cup. This means that in the third round DC United faces the Harrisburg City Islanders on July 11 at Hempfield High School in Landisville, Pa. Is the midweek 3 hour drive worth it? Anybody else going?

Match 2.11 DCU v RSL - Recap by RSL Ben

2007-06-26T19:08:00.000-04:00

I asked RSL Ben for his take on the game and he sent me the following. I'm not sure why I am putting myself through this but maybe if we keep it close in our minds it won't be repeated. He also sent pictures of which I will post a few in the near future.

Ben Cup Leg 1: RSL v. DCU 6/23/07
Hmmm...I'm not really sure how to do this. I was beginning to think I wouldn't have to do it all year... How do I write up an RSL win??? I'll try anyway.

First half: Expectations and morale seemed pretty low throughout the stadium as the game kicked off. As the game started and RSL missed a wide open goal off a corner I had a feeling of here we go again. I even sent a text message to DC Ben saying it was a "bad omen". But then, something amazing happened. Real Salt Lake remembered for the first time this year that they are, in fact, a professional soccer team! And, by extension, started playing like one. They really outplayed DC in every facet of the game and looked hungry to win for once. DC, on the other hand, looked like RSL usually does: disinterested and bored. The culmination came with a nice breakaway goal by new guy Robbie Findley late in the first half. Oddly, this came soon after I had said how bad he was playing (and he had been-lots of turnovers, little hustle). I believe I inspired him. Probably the best half of soccer RSL has turned in all year, and with some better finishing (and some correct officiating-how does Esky NOT earn a PK late in the half), RSL really SHOULD have been up 2 or 3 by halftime. Either way, half time score: RSL 1, DC 0
Half grade: A- (higher with better finishing)

Second half: I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. You know, the one that comes during every RSL game where they fall asleep mentally and blow the game. But then, there it was, another Findley breakaway goal. Amazing! The only thing he's missing is Jeff's sweet sweet goal celebrations. No one can be self absorbed like Mr. Cunningham. After the goal, RSL did a pretty good job controlling possession and keeping DC out of it until late. Then they seemed to lose a little focus. DC scored a goal on an absolutely braindead play by RSL's backline. Kipre had about an hour to clear it, but decided to just bounce it around for a while. Rimando probably could have gotten to it earlier but didn't. Next time in that situation, Nicky needs to punch Kipre in the face and take the ball from him. It's called taking one for the team, Jean. hahaha Soon after, Medhi "Nah, I don't want to win" Ballouchy continued his awful game (those who say otherwise, go back and watch it again, he sucked as usual this year) by sending a wonderful header into the box...for DC! Sadly, this is probably the best "attacking" pass he's made all year and it was to the other team. If only he'd set our team up like that! Luckily, DC absolutely choked on the opportunity (I think the ball is scheduled to land sometime next Thursday) and RSL faked injury all the way to a 2-1 victory. Actually, the ref got RSL back most of the way for the time wasting with a 5 minute stoppage time session that seemed to last about 2 hours. EVERYONE in the stadium was expecting RSL to blow it (see RSL v. Dallas any time this year for prime examples). The joy that overcame the stadium was amazing when the final whistle blew. "Did someone just win the world cup?" "Nah, RSL just won a game." The place went nuts, that s**t was bananas, b-a-n-a-n-a-s. Good times, good times. RSL now just needs a tie to clinch the 2nd Ben Cup in Sept., or as I put it to DC Ben after the game "Oh snap. That is all."
Half grade: B

Pros:
-Findley, where have you been all my life?
-The team looked interested and played with passion
-Talley over Adu was an upgrade of epic proportions. Have fun in Europe Freddy, don't let the door hit you on the way out (or do, actually, all your crap about leaving while you don't do crap for us has gotten mighty old).
-Solid performance almost all the way around.
-Atiba Harris back at his natural D-mid spot is nice.-Eddie Pope, rock solid again. We will miss him next year...
-WE WON!!!
-Ben Cup 2007: RSL 1-0-0, DC 0-1-0, mwahahahaha!

Cons:
-Esky didn't get a goal. You could tell he really REALLY wanted one.
-Ben Olsen was a chump. Lots of shoving and smacking RSL players behind the play. If I didn't know better, I'd have thought Mastroeni came in and played for him. It was nice to see him booed every time he touched the ball for the last 30 min. though.
-Kipre's idiocy that led to the goal-otherwise he played solid.
-Medhi Ballouchy. Or as he is becoming, Adu Jr. Wants to be the team's playmaker (and sadly, is given that role) but can't do it. Decision making was poor at best (what was that late back header about?), passing was off, and he still can't hit a cross or a corner at all. Why he is still taking them is beyond me.
-DC fans blaming it on Nolly. He was hung out to dry on both goals. Not his fault.

Game grade: A-

Other things we learned:
-RSL seems to play its best against DC. Don't know why, guess it's the Ben Cup.
-Ballouchy is "cute." Or at least my wife thinks so.
-The Ben Cup is only getting started...just picture it in 5 years. Oh yes.

Player grades:
Nick Rimando, 7-didn't have a lot to do honestly
Jean-Martial Kipre, 5-played well, but huge mistake cost him
Eddie Pope, 8-held together the back line and killed DC
Jack Stewart, 6-quiet game, which for him is good-when he's loud its because of mistakes
Ritchie Kotschau, 6-meh, was he on the pitch?
Carey Talley, 7-played pretty well in Chris Klein's old spot
Atiba Harris, 7-the move to d-mid has done him a world of good
Andy Williams, 6-active but sloppy
Mehdi Ballouchy, 5-had a few moments (and got his nose into things-see number of times he went down), but his sloppiness/weaknesses continue to hurt
Robbie Findley, 9-Two goals make up for any early miscues. Just wow. Great debut!
Alecko Eskandarian, 8-Active, hustling, urgent, hungry. Normal Esky game.
(Daniel Torres 46) 6-played quietly but decently
(Jamie Watson 73) 7-didn't do a lot but was all over the field. Like a little Esky.
(Kyle Brown 84) Inc.-didn't have time to do anything

Match 2.11 The Result: DCU v RSL 6-23-07 First Leg of the Ben Cup

2007-06-24T09:54:00.000-04:00

DCU 1 RSL 2

All streaks must come to an end. Whether it be the RSL winless streak or the DCU unbeaten streak, they cannot go on forever. But did it have to happen like this?

There are only two explanations for this loss. One is that the pressure of the Ben Cup got to the team and they could not perform. The other is that somebody forgot to tell the team that this is the Ben Cup and this game does matter. We went in against the worst team in the MLS and got beaten soundly. We were not interested in playing.

Nolly didn't get help from the defense and the defense didn't get help from him. Gomez was invisible. The offense was not clicking in the final third and the defense was not clicking in their own third. We had some flashes of proper form in the middle third but never generated any chances. We didn't look dangerous and that is our biggest failing. When we don't look dangerous we lose. I really really hate to say this, but we lacked passion, intensity, any sort of positive motivation.

This is the Ben Cup guys! Luckily you have a second leg to make this better.

We are about to enter a stretch of games that will be much more difficult than this game (Colorado, KC, Houston, and Dallas). Our roster will be reduced by the U20 World Cup and Copa America. We are going to have to find depth and spark in new places.

Facts and Reality for Match 2.11

1. We are down one in the Ben Cup. We will have to perform much better in the return leg.
2. Kpene didn't start which I think is a mistake, however, this week he was NOT the replacement for Moreno.
3. RSL Ben got good seats and a great win for his birthday.
4. Erpen forgot to shave.

Rice-Eccles Stadium (The Ping Pong Table)

2007-06-23T13:58:00.000-04:00

I asked RSL Ben to send me any pictures he had of the field at RES and he sent me this (RES in the background, Tori in foreground):

When I asked him why I couldn't see the American football lines that are so obviously clear on television, he was kind enough to send me this:

He also included the following explanation:

There's 2 reasons that you can't see them:
1) the resolution on the pic is not very good-it was taken on my old cellphone.
2) you just didn't look close enough, you can still see some-look again [above].

Thanks again RSL Ben!

Match 2.11 The Setup: DCU v RSL 6-23-07 First Leg of the Ben Cup

2007-06-22T11:11:00.000-04:00

A rivalry is usually determined by geographic proximity or at least division/conference proximity. The Ben Cup rivalry spawns from something much more basic and barbaric, man's competitive spirit. The friendship between two men (some may call them boys) will never be the same.

I met RSL Ben about 6 years ago when we became roommates at Southern Utah University (GO T-BIRDS!). Oddly enough we lived with another Ben, making 3 total living in the same house, and a Joe and a Mike. There might have been a time where we tried to give nicknames to differentiate between the Bens but not until the Ben Cup could we attach DCU and RSL to our names and know for sure who was who. While we lived together we both liked soccer, but had not yet let the MLS into our hearts. We parted ways after one semester but we always kept in touch. Luckily I married a girl from Utah so I could visit ~~him~~ her family often.

Last year when I found DC United (introduced to me by El Goleador, second picture down), I naturally wanted to introduce my new friend to RSL Ben. Little did I know that he had also found a new love in RSL. Let's just say that our new love interests did not get along. After the penalty kick fiasco, RSL Ben started to talk trash about how they wouldn't need the referee to win at RFK. I was sure that we would get a result at home without a problem so I countered his trash with a little of my own. We text messaged each other through (what would become the second leg) the second match and the Ben Cup was born. Unfortunately all DC could put together was a Freddy free kick and I had to concede the first Ben Cup on aggregate.

On to a new year and a new cup. DC United has the opportunity to go up big in the first leg of Ben Cup 2007. The Black and Red come into Rice-Eccles Stadium riding their 7 game unbeaten streak and looking to extend it to 8 before Copa America wreaks havoc on the roster. This is a game we should win which always worries me. RSL is the worst team in the league. There is no getting around that fact. Unfortunately they were also one of the worst last year and still beat us.

Due to the Ben Cup I tend to watch as many RSL games as possible to size up the competition. I also pull for them in most other games, especially now that Esky is there. The defensive breakdowns and lack of midfield control are extremely frustrating. However, last week against FC Dallas I felt as if the turf itself was keeping them from winning. They put together some decent attacks but the ball was untrappable, especially for Adu. RSL will be out Adu (U-20 World Cup) and Chris Brown (their recent goal maker, injured) and I'm guessing Klein as well (traded to LAG). It will be interesting to see if the newly acquired Sturgis and Findley will have any affect on Saturday's game. They can't possibly be a negative for them.

Usually I don't do predictions but as my co-founder made the request I will take a shot at it.

DC 3 RSL 1
DC goals by Gomito, Fred, and Erpen, from distance of course
RSL goal by Esky who will love to score another against us

Thanks to D and JCM for Ben Cup shout outs.

Hopes and Dreams for Match 2.11

1. We give ourselves a nice lead in the Ben Cup race; at least 2 or 3 goals. By the way, away goals mean nothing. Except maybe scoring on that ping pong table in Salt Lake should count double for both teams.
2. Kpene (hopefully healed) shows us he can start in place of Moreno for the long haul; we need a third striker that can get the job done.
3. RSL Ben gets good seats to see the game on his birthday.
4. Erpen scores from distance.