MLS Quick Thoughts: Oct. 2008

I’ve been busy between professional obligations (I make my living consulting on political and issue campaigns, so obviously this has been a busy time) and some personal issues (nothing serious but time consuming nonetheless) so I apologize for not posting here the last few days.

Tonight’s match between Columbus and DC United was the best of what MLS has to offer. A passionate match where the red and black were unlucky: they deserved better and deserved to make the playoffs after playing with such heart. Namoff and Khumalo both hit the post when it seemed like DC was controlling the game. Credit to Columbus for not playing reserves and giving DC the game , HOWEVER: I have a bone to pick with Sigi Schmid for last week’s game against the Metrostars. From my perspective NY does not win that game if Columbus is playing their regulars. What I do not get is why Columbus played a second XI for all intents and purposes just last week and not both weeks? Or why not rest a few starters both games thus giving each starter a game off and not affecting the competition for playoff spots?

The LA-Dallas game was one of the worst football matches I’ve seen at any level and I could not sit through it. Some MLS matches are riveting, and others are just plain rubbish. We may have seen the last of Kenny Cooper in MLS. We certainly did see the last of Greg Vanney which does not matter in the least bit to me. However, someone who should be honored today is Bobby Rhine, a class individual who spent his entire professional career with one team. I saw Rhine as in person many times when the Dallas Burn played the Miami Fusion and always was impressed by his utility, even in those early days. He was literally a model American soccer player. Not terribly talented or technical, but smart enough to fit any role on the pitch. I was pleased to see him wear the Captain’s armband today in his final professional match.  He will be missed as a player and hopefully he will stay in the game.