Designated Players

So, news today is that Landon Donovan just signed a new contract with the LA Galaxy, that will pay him a lot more than he was previously making. Prior to this contract, Donovan was “grandfathered” into a designated player slot, meaning that LA had filled their spot with David Beckham, but they allowed the Galaxy to keep Donovan as well. Several players have been grandfathered in order for them to stay with their current teams. Many people are upset that Donovan still is not required to take up the Designated Player spot for the Galaxy, which would mean they would have to choose between Beckham and Donovan.
While I am no expert on the rules of running a team in the MLS, I had to think about how big of a deal this is, and what the implications could mean.
First, I had to think of RSL. We do not have anybody occupying a Designated Player spot, and yet, we were the MLS Champions in 2009. Now, the regular season was not that good for us, but I wonder if that had more to do with us totally sucking on the road, and not because we do not have a designated player.
My only concern (and argue with me if you think I am wrong) is that as the MLS continues to grow, more players will want to play in this league, whether they are Americans or from elsewhere. As these players come into the league, I fear the MLS will make exceptions to where players go to in order to make the players happy, and sell their product. Do you really think Thierry Henry is going to come to the MLS if he is told that he is going to play for Real Salt Lake? Where my fear lies is that eventually teams with have 3, 4, and maybe 5 Designated Players on their roster, and then it might be too difficult to compete with them in the future. Will this happen? I don’t know. I hope that the league would see this as a problem and make some firm rules about rosters.

Roster Moves

So far during this off season, RSL has made three changes to their roster.
The first move was the acquisition of Abe Thompson from Kansas City. Abe is a veteran MLS striker. Honestly, I cannot remember ever seeing him, and his name is not familiar for me. I guess we will just have to wait and see when RSL gets into training camp about this new player.
With the addition of Thompson came the trading of Chris Seitz to Philadelphia. In my opinion, this was a good move for RSL. Seitz has barely seen the pitch here at RSL, and I think he deserves a chance to go and show what he can do. With Rimando playing the way he is, I do not see us using Seitz anytime soon. I think that Kyle Reynish will be sufficient as RSL maybe looks to add a veteran backup keeper. This was also a good move as I believe it prevented Philadelphia from taking any RSL players in the expansion draft.
Finally, RSL agreed to a contract extension with Fabian Espindola through the year 2013. Great news for RSL. With Yura's future in question (will he stay in Europe if his team is relegated, switch to a new team, etc) and the possiblility of Robbie Findley playing for the National Team during the World Cup, it was important for RSL to lock up Espy. He is a great striker in my opionion, and adds a lot of flare to the team. It will be interesting to see how Kreis lines up our strikers this upcoming season.
What do you guys think of the moves? Is their anything you are hearing in regards to roster moves? Let me know.

Lets Get Started

Welcome once again to View From the North Goal.
I know, last year I really sucked at the blog, but I was trying to do way to many things with it. This year, the blog is strictly going to be reactions and my personal views on Real Salt Lake. If you are looking for news and information on the team, check out
www.rsltothecore.com. That is the team’s homepage on news and information. You can also check on some links from that page. My personal favorites are Keepin it Real and www.rslsoapbox.com.

It is still sinking in that we are the MLS Cup Champions. There is pride in knowing that when other teams play us, they will be playing the defending champs. 2010 looks to be a very good year, not only for RSL, but for the entire soccer community. The regular season looks to provide new challenges, as we work now for the Supporters Shield. There is also the excitement of a new team in the league, the Philadelphia Union, who might be starting Chris Seitz as their keeper. I can only imagine the game here, Rimando vs. Seitz. RSL looks to play in their first ever CONCACAF Champions League, and look to be only the third American team to win that prestigious tournament. In the summer, MLS might take the backseat as we look to South Africa and the World Cup, which might see the inclusion of our own Robbie Findley. I am very excited at what is to come, and I hope you are all as well.
As always, if anybody is interested in looking at tickets, let me know and I will work it out.
Check back next week as I will discuss some recent roster moves by RSL.

So this has been a sorry excuse for a blog as of late. I apologize for any who read this blog as their source for RSL info. I know, not a lot.

However, I am going to begin blogging the 2010 RSL season, and I promise, this is going to be better. Instead of blogging on the news of the team, this is just going to be a fan perspective of the beautiful game, and our favorite team, Real Salt Lake.

Hope to see you guys soon, as I won't start blogging here until the season is over for RSL.

Thoughts on the US Open Cup

Well, RSL is currently playing their first match in US Open Cup Qualifying, and they are getting blown away against Seattle 4-1 in the second half.  As I have been listening to this match, I was thinking about the US Open Cup, and here are some thoughts.

I wish that people took the US Open Cup more seriously.  And by that, I don't mean the players, because I think that they go out and play hard every game.  I am glad that the radio is providing coverage of this match, but if we have a TV Channel dedicated to Real Salt Lake, why can't they provide television of this match?  Why is the only game that we see ever in the US Open Cup is the final?  There are great stories that develop during the open cup, whether it is teams from the lower division making deep runs, as well as qualifying for the CONCOCAF Champions league.  

While I love the international game, I would love to see maybe some extra coverage of the Open Cup on Fox Soccer Channel.  By this, I do not mean every game, but they could at least start with maybe the quarterfinals, and do some games on tape delay.  All they would have to do is not show Fox Soccer report 8 times a day. 

I think that people do not care about this tournament, because nobody gets to see it ever.  At least let me see my home club play in this important tournament.

Well, that is all for this time.  What do you guys think about the US Open Cup?  

Week 6 Power Rankings

Sorry for the lack of a week 5 power ranking.  Instead of backtracking, here is week six.

1. Chivas USA- 16 points

Started out the week losing to a Toronto team that has started to play very well.  Finished the week with a victory against a struggling Dallas team.  Still the most points in the league.

2. Toronto FC- 11 points

Jumped to first place in the east with victories against the powerful Chivas USA and Kansas City.  Did not allow a goal in either game.  Both games were at home, so it will be important to see if they can continue this success on the road.

3. Seattle FC- 12 points

Following a couple of losses, Seattle bounces back with a victory against San Jose.  Kasey Keller has still not allowed a goal all season, which is still pretty scary for other teams.

4. Real Salt Lake- 9 points

After a disappointing loss on the road to a horrible New York team, RSL puts on the most impressive victory in all of MLS this season, trouncing the New England Revolution 6-0, with all goals coming in the second half, and all by different players.  However, RSL has yet to score a goal on the road, which is where they will be on Saturday when they take on Colorado.  If RSL wants to show that they can be a powerhouse, they need to win away from Rio Tinto.

5. Chicago Fire-10 points

After blowing a victory last week by giving 2 goals to KC late in the game, Chicago turns it around and scores two late goals to get a draw against Columbus.  If the Fire want to rise in the standings, they need to turn these draws into Wins.

6. DC United- 9 points

Pulled of an incredible comeback against the New York Red Bulls, scoring two goals in the 90th minute of play.

7. Kansas City Wizards-10 points

Started the week with a win against New York, although the only goal was on a penalty kick, and they played the entire game a man up following a Red Bull red card.  Closed the week out by losing in Toronto.

8. Colorado Rapids- 8 points

Only able to manage a draw against a struggling Galaxy at home, but they will have another chance as rivals Real Salt Lake come into town.  The Rapids need to find somebody other that Conner Casey to score goals consistently.

9.  New England Revolution- 8 points

Suffered their first lost of the season to RSL, giving up 6 goals in the process.  Even though New England was without many starters, they played horribly.

10. San Jose Earthquakes- 5 points

Lost in Seattle, and they were blanked by Kasey Keller, but who hasn't been this year.  They still lack a dynamic scorer.

11. Houston Dynamo- 5 points

Did not play this week, they will see if they can build on their victory against Colorado.

12. FC Dallas- 4 points

Lost to Chivas USA, and did not score any goals in the process.  At least they have a victory this year.  Kenny Cooper continues to impress.

13. New York Red Bulls- 5 points

Trying to build after an impressive victory against RSL, New York goes and puts a goose egg in Kansas City, and then handed the game to DC United, giving up 2 goals in the 90th minute.  

14. Los Angeles Galaxy- 4 points

They haven't won any games, but at least they aren't losing a whole lot either.  I don't know if Beckham is going to want to come back.

15. Columbus Crew- 4 points

The defending MLS Cup champs are struggling, and they still have not had a win this year.  They looked in position to do so, up 2-0 against the Chicago Fire, but they gave up 2 goals late and settled for a draw.  Same as LA, at least they are not losing a lot of games.

RSL Vs. New England Revolution

Hey there everybody.  What a game on Saturday night.  Rio Tinto turned into a giant party in the second half.  The first half had plenty of missed chances, booing at the ref, and some disappointment.  However, following Olave's goal in the 53', the party began and never stopped.  We got to see one of the best goals in the history of RSL, as Clint Mathis had a perfect left-footed volley that hit the top right corner of the net.  That goal was only two minutes after Olave's header.  Well, after that, Aubrey says to me, "I am feeling good that Yura is going to get a goal tonight."  Well, who would have guessed, but right after that, Yura scored his first goal of the season.  Following a goal by Escalada to put us up 4-0, Andy Williams came into the game.  After about 5 minutes, Aubrey says to me, "I know this is crazy, but I am feeling a goal for Andy."  Well, we had never seen 5 goals in the HISTORY of RSL, and when Williams stepped up to the ball to take his free kick, the crowd started getting excited, chanting "We want 5, We want 5."  Well wouldn't you know, Williams "bombed" it right into the back of the net. Everybody was singing and dancing after that goal.  RSL continued their aggressive play, and for a period of time, put together about 20 passes in a row.  The whole crowd was saying "ole" with each completed pass.  Another corner kick came, and everybody started chanting "We want six, We want six."  Crazy, right?  Well, it didn't happen then, but Williams put a beautiful ball to Findley's feet, which he buried into the back of the net, and even more craziness in the stands.  Smoke bombs, singing, jumping, flag waving.  It was incredible.  It was a night that I won't soon forget.

DC United

So I know that this is an RSL blog, but I just wanted to share a few things.
I am watching the DC United vs. New England match on ESPN right now. So far it is scoreless. This is one of the premier rivalries in the MLS right now. Back in 2005, I had the opportunity to attend my very first MLS match, and it was to see DC United host New England. I loved the game, and had a very good experience there.
Many of you have probably heard of the difficulties that DC is having right now trying to get a stadium deal done to build a soccer specific stadium. There have been talks that if a stadium deal does not get done, then DC United will be forced to relocate somewhere where they will build and fund a stadium.
I think that it would be horrible for the league if DC United is forced to relocate. I think that the fan base they have one of the best loyal fan bases in the league, and they have been one of the best teams in the history of the league. I do not think it would be good to have one of the premier teams in the league forced to relocate.
Imagine the LA Lakers, or New York Yankees, or the Dallas Cowboys having to relocate to another city. What do you guys think about this situation?

The Striker Debate

So, with the rumors stating that we are going to get Fabian Espindola back for RSL, I was pretty excited. He was one of my favorite players for RSL, and I was sad when he left. When he was healthy, he was one of the better players that we had.
However, I am hearing that a lot of people are relieved that we are getting Fabi, because they feel like we are struggling with our strikers, and he will be able to help out and possibly replace Yura Movsisyan.
While Yura has yet to find the back of the net, I personally do not feel like he is struggling. After watching the first three games, Yura is putting a lot of pressure on opposing keepers. He is forcing them to make a lot of excellent saves (did you guys see the great header against DC). I think that having Espindola back, as well as Escalada will only strengthen our attack, and make us one of the most feared teams in the league.
What our your thoughts on Espindola's return? How have you felt the play of Yura Movsisyan has been?
As always, let me know what you would like to see from this blog in the future.

So i just got mobile Blog on my phone. Sweet.

MLS Power Rankings

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of posts.  I was trying to figure out what I really wanted to do with this blog, because I didn't want to feel like I was reporting on the Real games and other games as well.  I just want this to be a place where I can share my thoughts on different things that I am reading.  

So, if you guys want to hear news on the team and league, let me know and I can guide you to the right places.

So, here are my Power Rankings after Week 4 in the MLS

1. Chivas USA-They are unbeaten, and played a tough game against LA, where there were a ton of cards, including three reds.  I think Chivas have proved that they deserve to be on top.

2. Seattle Sounders- Having started the season 3-0, they suffer a difficult home loss against Kansas City where Kasey Keller was sent off, and a very good shot by Davy Arnoud has been the only thing to find the back of Seattle's net.

3. Chicago Fire- Looking to be the favorites in the East, they are being blessed by the great play of Brian McBride.  However, they are drawing matches that they should be winning.  I think this team will only get better.

4. New England Revolution- For a team that is missing many players due to injury, New England is playing great.  Hopefully they got the rest they needed by having a bye this week, and can look at getting some players back.  They have gotten some fortunate results this season, but they show that they are working hard.

5. Real Salt Lake- Coming off a surprise end to 2008, RSL is showing the league that they are for real.  Following a disappointing opening day loss in Seattle, they have followed through with two impressive victories at home, but they have only been able to beat teams that are struggling.  Hopefully their road woes do not continue against a struggling New York team.

6. Colorado Rapids- Colorado is playing some great soccer.  They have not lost since the opening weekend, and they are getting some great play from Conor Casey, who is leading the league in goals scored.

7. Kansas City Wizards- They were able to go into Seattle and big up three points, something that no team has been able to do this year.  They are getting some great play by Davy Arnoud, and have had two impressive shut out victories after dropping their first two games.

8. Toronto FC- Toronto is surprisingly  struggling at home, after losing to Seattle and then dropping three points by giving up a late goal to FC Dallas.  However, it seems that Dwayne de Rosario is starting to find his rhythm.  

9. DC United- After missing the playoffs last year for the first time in forever, DC United is continuing to struggle trying to get some wins.  They suffered their fist loss of the season on Saturday against Real Salt Lake, but they have only posted one victory on the season, against a struggling Houston Dynamo team.

10. San Jose Earthquakes- Following a horrible game against Kansas City where the quakes were only able to get one shot on goal the entire game, they go up against one of the better teams in the league and score 3 goals.  The problem was, every time they scored, they gave up a goal and ended up with a tie.  San Jose needs to work on their defense and some offensive consistency, and they could be a contender this year.

11. Columbus Crew- Columbus continues to struggle, as they are winless to start out the season.  They gave up a late goal against Colorado to lose three points.  Things do not look bright as Chicago comes into town next.

12. Los Angeles Galaxy- Apart from the play of Landon Donovan, LA is horrible.  Their defense in bad, goalkeeping has been a huge question (except for Saturday) and they continue to look for their first win of the season.  At least they have the offense somewhat working.

13. Houston Dynamo- Following the loss of Dwayne de Rosario, Houston has struggled to find any consistency.  A scoreless draw against New York was pretty pathetic.

14. New York Red Bulls- New York better hope that these players that they are expecting get here soon.  New York has only scored one goal this entire year.  Their play has been pretty poor, but their defense has allowed them to pick up 2 points so far.

15. FC Dallas- Dallas finally got their first points of the season, follow a late equalizer against Toronto FC.  They also should have gotten a point at New England but were the victims of a poor penalty call.  Dallas needs somebody to step up, and this team needs to start playing together.

Game of the Week

My game of the week for this week is Toronto FC @ Columbus Crew, Saturday at 2:00 PM.  I am excited because this is going to be a game that I will be able to watch because the Real game does not start until 830.  

Well, the things that I will be looking for is to see if Toronto can continue to be impressive against the defending Eastern Conference Champion Columbus.  I was not able to watch a lot of the Toronto game against Kansas City, so I do not know how well the team is playing.  Columbus looked pretty good against Houston, and fought hard to get a point in that game.  

Let me know what you think about this game, and what some other games that interest you are.

Seeing how there are no games on Thursday, tomorrow we will look at some other games in the MLS, because I did not get to that yesterday.

RSL Recap

Well, the preseason ended on a positive note on Saturday, with RSL beating USL-1 Division team Austin Aztex 3-1.  

RSL scored on goals by Jamison Olave, Yura Movsisyan, and Javier Morales.  

RSL took the lead in the 35th minute of play following a header by Olave.  RSL then gave up a goal on a corner kick in the 72 minute, and that tied the game 1-1.

Continuing in their form from last year, RSL waited until the very end to put the game away.  Movsisyan put a beautiful header in the back of the net to give RSL the 2-1, and Morales put the game away in stoppage time on a break away goal, to finalize the score 3-1.

It was a very good game, and it was great that RSL put on this open house for all of the fans to enjoy the new stadium.  

RSL Preview, GotW Recap

Game of the Week Recap

Well, it was a real treat to be able to watch the newest team in the MLS, the Seattle Sounders.  They definitely have a good thing going in Seattle, and the amount of crowd support they had was unreal.  The fans were also treated to a very good game, and it looks like Seattle has worked hard to get a team that compete from day one.

Seattle surprised me and got a 3-0 victory against the New York Red Bulls.  Freddy Montero impressed me the most, as he scored 2 goals for Seattle.  Kasey Keller was strong in goal, getting a couple of pretty good saves, but he was not tested very often.  

Seattle was able to accomplish in one day what it took RSL 3 1/2 years to do, and that is being in first place in the West.  RSL has never won their season opener, which will hopefully change next saturday.

RSL Preview

RSL vs. Austin Aztex

Saturday, March 21, 1:00 PM

Rio Tinto Stadium

Seeing how there are now 15 teams in the MLS this year, one team has a bye each week, and this week it is RSL.  I think this is good because this gives us an extra week to prepare, and we can look at what Seattle did this week.  RSL did a good thing for the fans in giving us a preseason game to go to, so that we can feel like the season is beginning as well.

The game will be played against the Austin Aztex, from the USL-1 division.  Austin is an expansion team to the USL-1, so the only thing I know about them is from preseason play.  In the last game they played, Austin lost to the Columbus Crew 1-0.

Here are some interesting things to look at.  

Kyle Brown, who was a member of RSL in 2007 is currently playing for Austin.  Another player to look out for will be Gifton Noel-Williams, who has had experience playing in Europe for Stoke City.

It will be interesting to see who RSL puts out on the field.  I expect to see depth on the field, but I think that the club will go with the first team to begin the game to get a feel for what they can do together.

Guys, come out to the game.  It is free, and will be a great chance to see our club in action for the first time in 2009

Week 1 Game of the Week

Every week on view from the north goal, we will be looking at a game in the MLS that interests me the most. Keep in mind that this will not be an RSL game, as every time RSL plays is the highlight of the week. This is to help the fans learn a little bit about some of the other games that are being played, and it gives them something to watch out for.
So, here is my game of the week for Week 1


New York Red Bulls @ Seattle Sounders
March 19, 2009 7:00 PM

This is the first game of the 2009 MLS Regular Season. This is going to be the first game for the Seattle Sounders, and we will also get to see the defending "Western Conference Champions" New York Red Bulls.

The New York Red Bulls are lead by Columbian Juan Pablo Angel, who is one of the candidates for MVP this year. Angel is brillian with the ball, as well as with his head. He is the leader of their attack. With the addition of Khano Smith from New England, expect the Red Bulls to have more control in the midfield. It also seems that Danny Cepero will continue in goal in place of Jon Conway, who is still serving his league suspension for performance enhancing drugs. New York was considered to be the "Cinderella Story" in the MLS Playoffs, and it will be interesting to see how they come out to start 2009
For Seattle, this is going to be a great way to see how they have put a team together. They start out strong in net, with U.S. goalkeeper Kasey Keller in goal. I have heard great things about Forward Freddy Montero, and I an interested to see how he performs in his first game of the MLS. I also heard that DP Fredy Ljunberg can possible play in this match, and I am interested to see what he can bring to this club. Former RSL player Nathan Sturgis is now playing for Seattle. He was a player that had a lot of potential, but was plagued by injuries.
I think this is going to be an exciting game, and I think the crowd in Seattle is going to make this a great experience.
Check back after the game tomorrow to hear my thoughts on the game.

MLS Week 1

Thursday March 19

New York Red Bulls @ Seattle Sounders FC  7:00 PM

Saturday March 21

Columbus Crew @ Houston Dynamo  6 PM

Chicago Fire @ FC Dallas  6:30 Pm

Toronto Fire FC @ Kansas City Wizards  6:30 PM

Colorado Rapids @ Chivas USA  8:30 Pm

New England Revolution @ San Jose Earthquakes  8:30 PM

Sunday March 22

D.C. United @ Los Angeles Galaxy  1PM

(All Times Mountain Time)

Also on Saturday, March 21 RSL will play an exhibition game vs Austin from the USL-1 league.  The game will be at Rio Tinto Stadium.  Admission is free to the public, gates open at 11 am, kick off is at 1 pm.

This first week of games is a pretty interesting week.  We get to see the New expansion club Seattle Sounders kick off the season on Thursday night(ESPN).  Seeing how RSL will be in Seattle the following week, that is going to be an interesting match to watch.  On Saturday, we get to see the defending MLS Champions Columbus Crew take on the Western powerhouse Houston Dynamo(Fox Soccer Channel). We will see how the Dynamo can play without Dwayne DeRosario.  The other match on Saturday that intrigues me is to see Colorado and Chivas play(Fox Soccer Channel).  Those will be two teams that we will be competing with for a playoff spot this year.  On Sunday, we get to see two fallen clubs of the MLS, as D.C. United takes on the Los Angeles Galaxy(TeleFutura).  LA will be without David Beckham until July, so we can see how that will affect the club.  Will DC United be able to become one of the premier clubs of the MLS? 

Check back tomorrow as we will look at the MLS Game of the Week.

MLS 2009 Season

Well everybody, the 2009 MLS Season is here.  I cannot believe it has finally come.  Well, this year promises to be a good year, and I believe that we have a pretty good team to compete for the MLS Cup.

Well, now that there are going to be games being played, here is how the blog will look on a week to week basis.

Monday- List of all the MLS games, what to watch for

Tuesday- Game of the Week (Other than RSL Game)

Wednesday- Preview of MLS Primetime Thursday

Thursday- Recap of the MLS Primetime Thursday Game

Friday- RSL Preview

Saturday- Recap of all the games, standings, etc.

Now, this schedule is subject to change as the games will not always land on these dates.  As the games change dates, I will make adjustments to the schedule.

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #1

Well, we are at number 1 in the Top 10 Countdown, which means that the 2009 MLS Season is next weekend.  I cannot wait, and I will have a full preview coming up.

RSl @ Colorado Rapids

October 25, 2008

RSL 1-1 Colorado

Well, even though I was not at the game, this has to be number one on this years list, and I think that it is possibly number 1 in the history of Real games.  Now, this was not the best game that RSL played, but it is one of the few games that sticks into my memory.

First of all, the instances surrounding the game were huge.  RSL needed only a tie, and they were in the playoffs for the first time in their history.  Colorado needed a win in order to make the playoffs.  As if that wasn't enough, the Rocky Mountain Cup was also on the line.

We went over to our friends house, Tim and Nikki, in order to watch the game.  It was great watching it with other people. 

RSL played very poorly.  You could tell that they were pretty much playing for a tie throughout the game.  Colorado scored in about the 25th minute, a Conner Casey goal, that put Colorado ahead 1-0.  Well, we all thought, there is still plenty of time left to go.  

Well, the time kept ticking away, and the dream of making the playoffs were slipping.  I could not believe it.  We were so close this year to making it.  Well, after some good play by RSL, Yura Movsisyan scored a goal in the 90th minute, and that send the whole room into chaos.  I was screaming and jumping up and down.  I couldn't sit for the last 4 minutes of stoppage time, and when the final whistle blew, I could not believe it.  We were in the playoffs! What a great game, with a great finish.  

Well, lets hope that 2009 brings us some great RSL games, and lets continue or winning ways.  See you on Saturday.

RSL Carolina Cup Champions

Well, RSL played Toronto FC for the Carolina Cup, and I was able to see RSL play for the first time, although it was only for about 30 minutes.  RSL looked great, and I am so excited for the season to get under way.  

RSL scored in the 5th minute, as Yura Movsisyan scored after a beautiful long ball by Javi Morales.  RSL continued to score in the 20th minute, as Clint Mathis scored following a lot of hard work by Robbie Findly.  

RSL did concede a goal to Toronto before the half, but they stayed strong, and prevailed 2-1 to take home the Carolina Cup.  

Out of 4 possible trophies this year (Carolina Cup, Rocky Mountain Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and MLS Cup) we are 1 for 1.  Lets continue the winning ways.

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #2

RSL vs. Chivas USA

November 1, 2008

RSL 1-0 Chivas

Well, you might think what could have been better than going to the Western Conference Finals, which was number 3 on our countdown.  Well, I don't think that I was more excited to go to any game than I was to go to the very first playoff game for RSL.  I remember buying my tickets for this game, and my friend and I decided to splurge a little bit and get us some tickets on the sideline for this historic game.  We bought the tickets right after we had beaten FC Dallas at home.  We still had to go to Colorado, but we were pretty confident we could get a result there.  

Well, this was a great game to be at.  There were plenty of Chivas USA fans there, and they came with their fireworks and smoke bombs, ready to have a good time.  I do think though that a lot of fans cheering for Chivas USA were actually Chivas Mexico fans, they just like anything that has Chivas in it.

Well, the first half had a couple of chances, with no goals, and that was the same situation for pretty much most of the second half.  Now this was the first game of a two game series, where the two teams play a home and home series, and they go on aggregate goals, meaning they combine the two games.  Seeing how we started at home, we really wanted to have an advantage going to Chivas next week.  Well, in the 90th minute, we had our miracle worker (read more about him next week) Yura Movsisyan put a ball in the back of the net to give RSL the 1-0 advantage.  I remember that I just lost it when Yura scored.  We had been standing for the last 15 minutes or so, and the stadium erupted with the goal.  The unbelievable was happening for us again.  It was one of my greatest moments as a Real Salt Lake fan.

While the second leg of this series did not make the top ten, Real went to play chivas in the second leg, where they tied 2-2, and RSL won the series 3-2 on aggregate to go to the Western Conference Finals.

RSL vs. DC United Recap

Well, RSL kicked of the Carolina Challenge Cup in a good way, beating DC United 3-0 on Saturday.  While I was only able to follow live updates from the RSL blog, it seemed the RSL was the better of the two sides, but they went into the half tied 0-0.  RSL then saw goals in the 49th minute by Escalada, the 76th minute by Movsisyan, and the 89th minute by Andy Williams.  

In the other game, Toronto FC beat the host club Charleston Battery by a score of 2-1.

Standings

                      PTS   W   L   D   GF   GA   GD

RSL                    3     1    0    0    3       0      3

Toronto             3     1    0    0    2       1       1 

Charleston        0     0    1    0    1       2      -1

DC United        0     0    1    0     0      3      -3

RSL vs. DC United

RSL take on their first MLS opponent in MLS Preseason action as they take on DC United tonight at 3:00 MST.  You can check out live updates on www.rsltothecore.com  This is the first match as part of the Carolina Cup.  Check back later for an update on the game.

RSL Watch Party

Hey there everybody. I am getting the MLS Direct Kick package this year. I think Aubrey is finally sick of me whining about the quality of the computer screen, as well as me always being up in the office on game days instead of down socializing with her.
Well, on Saturday, March 28th, I will be having a watch party to kick off the first RSL game of the season. The game will be at 8:30 PM, as Real will be taking on the new expansion team, Seattle Sounders.
Let me know if you want information on coming. Hope to see as many people there as we can.

Champions League Recap

Well, the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions Leage wrapped up yesterday, and there were definately some suprises in the games.
The all mexican quartefinal between Cruz Azul and Pumas ended with Cruz Azul winning 2-0 with the goal aggregate.
The lone MLS squad, Houston, lost to Atlante 3-0 in the second leg after drawing in Houston, and they were eliminated 4-1.
USL squad Puerto Rico Islanders continued their suprise run in the Champions League by knocking of Maraton to advance to the semis
The game that I want to talk about was between the Montreal Impact and Santos Laguna. Montreal had a great home game, winning 2-0, and putting themselves in a great position to advance to the semi-finals. In Mexico, they gave up a quick goal in the 15th minute, but they still led 2-1 in goal aggregate. Following a huge defensive mistake by Santos, Montreal was able to equalize, and go up 3-1 aggregate, and they got an away goal. (With away goals, even if the game is tied at the end of the two games, whoever scores the most away goals will win.) This meant that Santos had to win this game, as a tie would cause them to lose on away goals. Well, Montreal bettered their position by scoring another goal before the half, leading 4-1 on aggregate. All they needed to do was not allow Santos to score 4 goals in the second half, and they would be in the Semis.
Well, Santos was able to get two goals back to make it 4-3 going into the 90th minute. They continued to press, and scored the two goals they needed, winning the series 5-4 on aggregate, and shocking the Montreal Impact.
Now, being an RSL fan, I have had many let downs as our team has given away leads late in the game, but I have never seen anything like this, and I cannot imagine what the fans and players must have felt like following the loss.

RSL Preaseason

For those of you who have been wondering about what has been happening with RSL in the preseason, sorry that I have failed to post.  RSL has completed their second trip for training, and are getting ready to go to Charleston, South Carolina, as they will be playing in the Carolina Challenge cup, with DC United, Toronto FC, and the USL's Charleston Battery.

Here is a recap of the RSL preseason so far:

RSL 0-0 Ventura County Fusion

RSL 8-0 Shandon Lueng Taishan (China)

RSL 2-0 University of South Florida

RSL 4-0 University of Tampa

RSL 1-2 BK Hacken (Sweeden)

So, RSL has a preseason record of 3-1-1, and have outscored opponents 15-2

The leading goal scorers for RSL throughout the preseason are 

Yura Movsisyan 3

Tino Nunez 2

Will Johnson 2

Alex Nimo 2

Luis Miguel Escalada 2

Arthur Aghasyan 1

Clint Mathis 1

I will provide game to game updates from here on out, as we get ready to open up the regular season.  So, the next preseason game is Saturday, March 7th against DC United.  Kickoff will be at 3:00 Mountain Time.  Go RSL

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #3

RSL vs. New York Red Bulls

November 15, 2008

RSL 0-1 NYRB

Well, this is the only game on the countdown where RSL lost, but this was a great game, and a great experience.  This was the Western Conference Finals, which RSL was able to host.  The atmosphere at the stadium was unbelievable.  It was a sold-out crowd, with the fans standing on their feet for the entire second half, chanting and rooting for the goal that never came.

Emotions were high, as well as the possible dream of actually making it to the MLS Cup.  Aubrey was just about ready to give birth, which she did the following monday.  I was praying leading up to this game that they baby would wait just a little longer to come (sorry Aubrey).  

New York jumped into the lead, with another goal by Dave Van De Berg (He is currently the all time leading goal scorer at Rio Tinto Stadium with 2 goals).  

In the second half, RSL pressed looking for the tying goal, but they just could not find the back of the net.  It was agonizing to watch, but following the defeat, and the trophy presentation to the NY Red Bulls for being the Western Conference Champs, we cheered our team on, chanting RSL, RSL.

It was a great event to be a part of, and I hope that in 2009, we can do it again.

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #4

RSL vs. New York Red Bulls

October 9, 2009

RSL 1-1 NY Red Bulls

As the season began, this was the game that I was most looking forward to.  This was the first game that RSL played in their new stadium, Rio Tinto Stadium.  I had been looking forward to this day ever since talks began about Real getting their own place, and the day had finally come.  We got to the stadium pretty early, and we took in the sights, and Aubrey humored me as I walked around and took pictures from almost every angle of the stadium, inside and out.  White rally towels were given to everybody, and I remember when RSL took the field, everybody was waving their towels.  I had always seen this done on tv, and now I was able to do it myself, and it was very exciting.  As the game began, I couldn't believe that this day had come.

Well, the party was short lived, as New York opened the game with a Dave Van De Berg goal.  That was in the 20+ minute of the game.  However, the party began soon later with a goal by Jamison Olave off of a corner kick, and the emotions of everybody, players and fans alike, was unreal.  Towels were waving, streamers were flying, and everybody was screaming.  It was great.  Nobody was able to break the deadlock, and the game ended in a 1-1 tie, which was a little disappointing, but at least it wasn't a loss.

CONCACAF Champions League

Well, we are in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions League. For those who are unfamiliar with this tournament, it is the tournament of Champions for those teams from Canada, United States, Mexico, and Central America. The tournament has been going on for a while, and we are heading to the final stretch.
There is only one team from the MLS left in the competition. The Houston Dynamo. In their first match, they had a draw with Mexican club Atlante. The format for this round is to play a home and home series, going by aggregate goals (the total amount of goals in both games). In the all mexican quarerfinal matchup, Cruz Azul beat Pumas 1-0.
There were two suprises this round, as a team from the USL, the Montreal Impact, beat Santos 2-0, a club from Mexico. Also, another USL team, the Puerto Rico Islanders, beat Club Marathon, the champions from Honduras.
It will be interesting to see the second round of games, and how the USL and MLS teams do.

I am sorry, tomorrow I will post games 4 and 3 on the top 10 countdown.

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #5

RSL vs Columbus Crew

July 12, 2008

Hey there RSL fans.  We are half-way through our preseason countdown of the Top 10 games of the 2008 season.  What have you thought so far?  Here we go with number 5.

This game was very special for me, because this was the first time in the history of the RSL franchise that we were in 1st place in the Western Conference.  After 3 years of always being in last place, this was one of the happiest moments as an RSL fan.  Morales scored an early goal on a beautiful free kick to put RSL up 1-0.  Findley doubled the score in the 78th minute, and that sealed the victory for RSL.  Following the game, hearing that we were in 1st place, was a great moment to be a fan.

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #6

RSL vs. FC Dallas

October 18,2008

RSL 3-1 FC Dallas

This was a great experience for me.  This was our second game in the beautiful RioTinto Stadium, and the atmosphere couldn't have been better.  We had a great crowd, and they were in for a treat.

The game opened up with an early goal in the 6th minute by FC Dallas.  RSL had a bit of a let down after giving up a goal so early, but they played hard and fought their way back into the game.  RSL was helped out by an FC Dallas red card in the 30th minute, which went to Saragosa, the man who scored the goal for FC Dallas.  Following that card, RSL had more space, and they were able to capitalize. Yura Mosvisyian continued his scoring ways by putting a ball into the back of the net only 7 minutes after the FC Dallas red card.  In the 53rd minute, we witnessed the MLS goal of the year, as Will Johnson blasted a ball into the net, giving Real the 2-1 advantage.  Findley sealed the game in the 86th minute with a beautiful strike in the corner of the goal, and FC Dallas was hit with another red card in the 89th minute.  In the end, it was RSL 3, FC Dallas 1

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #7

RSL vs. New England Revolution

June 21, 2008

RSL 2-1 NE

This game made my Top 10 Countdown, because this was a good win versus a very good opponent in New England.  It was also interesting how I made it to this game as well.  

My wife and I left Virginia after visiting my family, and as we were flying on the play, I kept checking my watch counting down to game time.  My in-laws picked us up from the airport, and they brought me my car, and I drove straight to the game from the airport, and made it just as they were getting ready to kick off.  Aubrey stayed home for this one, as she was tired after the plane ride.  Now to the game.

RSL gave up an early goal to New England after a defensive mixup with the goalie, and I was getting worried that New England (who was on an eight game unbeaten streak) would dominate the game.  RSL was able to equalize on an own goal by New England, as Morales sent in a ball from a free kick that was deflected into the goal.

In the second half, Tino Nunez scored his first MLS goal to put RSL on top 2-1, and I spent the rest of the match pacing the stands hoping that we wouldn't give up a late goal.  RSL was able to hang on, and I was able to leave happy.

Bone Marrow Drive!!

Hey guys, I just wanted to let you know that there is going to be a bone marrow drive for Marcia Williams, who is the wife of RSL midfielder Andy Williams.
Marcia has a rare form of lukemia, and they are desperately searching for a doner.
To let you all know, the drive is going to be on Thursday, January 29th, from 3 to 7 pm at Rio Tinto Stadium. Hope to see some of you out there.

RSL Preseason

Today RSL announced their preseason schedule for 2009.  This will be a great chance to find out about some of the new players on the squad, as well as to see how the veterans are doing.

2009 Real Salt Lake Preseason Schedule

Jan. 29-31

Thurs., Jan. 29 — Players report for entrance physicals / fitness testing

Fri., Jan. 30 — Media Day at Rio Tinto Stadium

Jan. 30-31 — Training in Utah (sites/times TBD)

Feb. 2-14 (At Oxnard/Ventura, Calif.)

Sun., Feb. 8 — RSL vs. Ventura County Fusion — 8 p.m.

Fri., Feb. 13 — RSL vs. Shandong Luneng Taishan (China) — 5 p.m.

Sat., Feb. 14 — RSL vs. UCSB or CSU-SLO — 11 a.m.

Feb. 15-17

Feb. 15-17 — Training in Utah (sites/times TBD)

Feb. 18-28 (At Tampa, Fla.)

Sat., Feb. 21 — RSL vs. TBD at University of South Florida — 5 p.m.

Tues., Feb. 24 — RSL vs. TBD at University of Tampa — 5 p.m.

March 1-3

March 1-3 — Training in Utah (sites/times TBD)

March 4-15 (At Charleston, S.C.)

Sat., March 7 — RSL vs. D.C. United — 3 p.m.

Wed., March 11 — RSL vs. Charleston — 5:15 p.m.

Sat., March 14 — RSL vs. Toronto FC — 3 p.m.

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #8

My match at number 8 in the countdown is 

RSL vs. Colorado

August 29,2008

RSL 2-0 Colorado

This was a match that I was very excited to go to.  Earlier in the season, Real had lost in Colorado 2-0, in a game in which we could have taken 1st place in the western conference.  As this was our only game against Colorado at home this season, I was ready to go and cheer on my Real Salt Lake.  

This was an important game not only in the season standings, but for the Rocky Mountain Cup as well, which is between us and Colorado.

Game Recap: Fabian Espindola had 2 goals in this game, and RSL played excellently against their main rivals.  You could tell that RSL had come to play, and Colorado came out flat.  RSL had their way, and was able to play their style of soccer, and it led to the victory.

This game is number 8 on the countdown because it is a rivalry game, and I am always excited to go and see Real play against Colorado.  

Wingert and the U.S. National Team

Just a quick post to let everybody know that the U.S. National team is playing tonight on fox soccer channel at 6:30 mountain time.  They will be taking on Sweden, in a international friendly as they get ready to take on Mexico in February.  Hopefully, our own Chris Wingert will get his first cap (game) with the national team, and he can do RSL proud.

Top 10 COUNTDOWN: #9

RSL vs Los Angeles Galaxy

May 3, 2008

RSL 1-1 LA

David Beckham made his visit to Utah, and the crowd was out in full to see him play.  And they got what they came for.

RSL opened the game up very quickly, with Fabian Espindola and Kenny Deuchar scoring very quick goals.  As the half was coming to an end, Beckham took over the show, scoring a pair of long, bending balls, one which came off of a free kick.  It looked like RSL struck back after the second goal by Beckham, but Deuchar was called offside (when the replay actually shows he was quite onside), and the teams went into the half tied two a piece, and that is the way that this game ended up.

This game is number 9 on my list, because I was able to see one of the best players in the world score two of the best goals I have seen.  RSL played a great game, and I got to see a lot of action.  I would have preferred a win by RSL, but I was happy as I left the stadium.

MLS Super Draft 2009

On Thursday, the MLS held the 2009 Super Draft.  This to me starts off the 2009 season, as now the teams are working with the players they have, and getting ready to train for the upcoming season.  Here is a look at the action of Real Salt Lake during this years draft.

RSL started the draft day off by trading Midfielder Dema Kovalenko to the Los Angeles Galaxy for a draft pick and some allocation money.

With the 12th pick in the draft, RSL selected Midfielder Jean Alexandre from Lynn University, which is a Div. II school.

Following that pick, Real took Raphael Cox with the 54th pick, a midfielder from Washington.

With the 57th pick, RSL's last of the Draft, they selected Futhi Bhembe, a forward from Alabama A&M.  Bhembe scored 14 goals in 16 games last year in college.

Hopefully, we can see these picks make an impact on the club.  With the reserve division eliminated, I don't know how these players are going to develop and grow, but I am looking forward to seeing them play sometime in the future.

TOP 10 COUNTDOWN

Okay everybody, we are now 10 weeks away from opening kick 2009, and it is time to begin my countdown of my top 10 games of 2009.  These are games that for me were special, and I look forward to reminiscing the past season with you guys.  Check out the link below, and click on the RSL game to see highlights from the game. (If it doesn't load the games for you, on the right of the screen go to select week, and then go to week ending 3/30). 

http://web.mlsnet.com/sights/index.jsp?club=mls&week=033010. 

Game Number 10

RSL vs. Chicago Fire

March 29, 2008

This was the season opener for RSL, and the anticipation was killing me.  I remember getting to the game a couple of hours early for this one.  Aubrey was not feeling well, as she was beginning her pregnancy with Kaden, so I went to the game by myself, which meant that I could go as early as I wanted and stay as late as I wanted.  

Well, the stadium was pretty full, and not only with RSL fans.  There were many fans who came to cheer on Cuatemoc Blanco, who is one of the heros of Mexican soccer.  The entire game, the Mexican fans where chanting "Cuatemoc, Cuatemoc", which caused the RSL fans to chant "RSL, RSL."  It was a great atmosphere for a game.  

RSL jumped on the board first thanks to an own goal by Bakary Soumare in the 71st minute.  This was the result of a Dema Kovalenko cross directed for Robbie Findley.  

It was looking that RSL was going to start of the season with a victory, but, we caught a glimpse of the old RSL, as they gave up the equalizing goal in the 92nd minute with a beautiful goal by Blanco.  The stadium erupted with cheers by all of Blancos fans.  On the bright side, at least we didn't loose the first game of the season.  

Following the game, I stayed to greet some of the players, and get their autographs.  Finally, the RSL stadium had begun.

News and notes

Well RSL fans, I know that it is hard to believe, but we are only 10 weeks away from opening kick 2009.  I for one cannot wait.  Things are going to start getting a little busy, as the MLS Superdraft is set for this week.  I will update on that.

Before I get started with the countdown, here are a couple of RSL news and notes that I have heard about.

RSL has chosen not to exercise the option on Fabian Espindola.  It is quite possible that he is going to be cut.  While Espindola has spent a lot of time being injured, I think that he was one of the better strikers that we had on the team.  It will be sad to see him go.  Maybe if we could just convince him to not do any backflips after he scores goals.  

Rsl is also looking at what they are going to do with Kenny Deuchar.  He was one of my favorites, but did not score a lot of goals, which is what he was brought here to do.  However, I feel that if RSL had a player that could effectively feed him the ball, I think that Deuchar could score more.