<div><figure class="image"></figure></div>
In the <a href="http:\/\/www.majorleaguesoccertalk.com/mls-cup-final-preview-which-team-has-the-advantage/7159">first part of our 2009 MLS Cup Final preview</a>, the Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles Galaxy players were assessed and compared, with a slight advantage being measured for the Galaxy. In this continuation of our analysis, attention is paid to the coaches and intangibles for both clubs.
The Coaching:
The Los Angeles Galaxy was a mess during the summer of 2008. They had just lost a 3-2 decision to the San Jose Earthquakes on a late goal by Ryan Cochrane, and a very disturbed David Beckham groused to the press after the game about the team’s lack of confidence. We would later learn in Grant Wahl’s The Beckham Experiment that this was the low point for the club. The players were not communicating, and head coach Ruud Gullit was already eyeing his exit from MLS. Just weeks later, after a sweep of the dysfunctional front office, Bruce Arena was handed the reigns to the Galaxy. Biding his time following an ignominious term as leader of Red Bull New York, Arena was prepared for the spotlight that came with coaching the world’s most famous player.
While the remainder of that year continued to be a circus at The Home Depot Center, the stage was being set for a return to prominence in 2009. Arena cleaned house of those he could or would not work with, and then brought in the mid-level veterans he knew could be successful in the MLS environment. Savvy draft picks in defenders and ex-Maryland teammates Omar Gonzales and A.J. DeLaGarza contributed immediately to a 10-game stretch to start the season that saw LA lose only once. The team began to gel around their coach, and the confidence to win grew each week. Even the summer return of Beckham couldn’t derail the Galaxy this season — Arena made sure he would integrate back into the squad seamlessly — and they went on to finish atop the Western Conference. Bruce Arena brought the Galaxy from worst to first in just one season. This Sunday marks his fourth trip to the MLS Cup Final — where he won twice at the helm of DC United — and the sixth trip for the Galaxy franchise.

Meanwhile, the scene is much different in the Beehive State, where MLS playing legend Jason Kreis is in his third year in charge of Real Salt Lake. Hired shortly after retiring as a player from the club, Kreis has quickly become a respected manager around the league. When he retired early in the 2007 season, Kreis had scored 108 career goals in MLS — good for best in league history at the time. That attack-minded attitude became his trademark when it came to tactical decisions at RSL. By employing constant pressure on their opponents, Salt Lake continues to create myriad scoring opportunities. His win/lose/tie record is nothing to be excited about, but his teams have done enough to get into the playoffs the past two seasons. A near miss in last years Western Conference Finals was redeemed with passage through the Eastern Conference Championship this post season. He preaches self-belief and hard work to his charges, most exemplified by midfielder Kyle Beckerman, and a never-give-up attitude. Always considered the underdog in these playoffs, especially when it comes to road games, Kreis has employed his attack-first mentality to perfection in toppling two very tough opponents in Columbus and Chicago.
Advantage: Los Angeles Galaxy — Arena has the trophies to prove it.
The Intangibles:
There are few certainties in sports — that’s why they play the games — save for the underdog crying out for respect against a seemingly undefeatable opponent. Since the 2009 playoffs began, Real Salt Lake has worn the underdog label with aplomb. Their surprising success in reaching the MLS Cup would not have been predicted entering their final game of the season against the Colorado Rapids. With just one win in their five prior matches, RSL required a win over their Rocky Mountain rivals just to sneak into the playoffs as the eighth seed (after winning tiebreakers against those same Rapids and DC United) with 40 points. Their season ending form was just average, but their playoff form has risen to another level. They have all the confidence in the world after two straight road victories, and look forward to their match in Seattle.
The field and weather conditions on Sunday should help Real Salt Lake as well as their attitude. Qwest Field offers up the much maligned artificial playing surface the club may remember from their days playing on a similar field at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Utah. Additionally, the weather will be very cool, with a good chance of rain — much closer to what you’d see in their home state and not sunny Southern California.
Lastly, the inspiring story of midfielder Andy Williams’ wife’s battle against cancer has helped the team rally around the cause. Williams has continued to impress even with the weight of those personal issues, and his teammates will be eager to reward his dedication.
Down in Los Angeles, the three year soap opera of Galaxy soccer that has followed David Beckham’s historic signing reaches a more stable stage with their MLS Cup Final appearance. As mentioned earlier, LA was last in the league at the end of 2008 and looking nothing like the Super-Club that former GM Alexi Lalas imagined them to be. What the guidance of Bruce Arena and the leadership of veteran signings like Gregg Berhalter and Tony Sanneh have been able to do for the club is impressive. Sanneh in particular has been a revelation for the club, without haven’t logged very many meaningful minutes during 2009. Virtually out of the game when Arena signed him earlier this year, the veteran has brought professionalism to the club that many felt was lacking. Add in other veterans like Chris Klein and Eddie Lewis, and there is a swagger to the Galaxy’s play that was missing during three prior years of missing the post season.
And, of course, there is David Beckham. The face of MLS is on the precipice of achieving a remarkable feat in professional soccer — league championships for three different clubs in as many countries. Beckham has been often criticized for his seemingly disinterested approach to playing in the U.S., but nobody watching this post season can fault him for his efforts. His intensity on the field, sometimes viewed as a form of petulance, can lift an entire team to success. Now on the biggest stage for soccer in America, David Beckham will want to add MLS Champion to his resume.
Advantage: Los Angeles Galaxy — The Beckham Experiment will be a success.
That completes the two final categories to consider for this MLS Cup Final preview. The indicators overwhelmingly point to the Los Angeles Galaxy as the team better prepared to beat Real Salt Lake. Thus, the stage is set for the Galaxy to hoist their third MLS Championship trophy this Sunday in Seattle.

MLS Cup Final Preview Part Two: Coaching and Intangibles  - World Soccer Talk

MLS Cup Final Preview Part Two: Coaching and Intangibles

The playoff numbers look like this…
<table border="1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center">
<tbody><tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">5 year comparison</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Conference Semifinals – 1st Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Home Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;12,147&nbsp;</td>
<td align="center">NA</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Colorado</td>
<td>&nbsp;Los Angeles</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;9,533&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-21.52%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Colorado</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;14,245&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;49.42%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Dallas</td>
<td>&nbsp;Kansas City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;10,476&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-26.46%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Salt Lake</td>
<td>&nbsp;Kansas City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;19,985&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;90.77%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Seattle</td>
<td>&nbsp;Salt Lake</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">5 year comparison</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Conference Semifinals – 2nd Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Home Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;14,400&nbsp;</td>
<td align="center">NA</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Dallas</td>
<td>&nbsp;San Jose</td>
<td>&nbsp;DC United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;15,938&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;10.69%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Dallas</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;DC United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;19,838&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;24.47%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;DC United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;19,444&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-1.99%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;Columbus</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;21,526&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;10.71%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;Columbus</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;Los Angeles</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Quarterfinals Totals(both legs)</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;13,273&nbsp;</td>
<td align="center">NA</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, COL, DAL, DCU, LA, NE, RBNY, SJ</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;12,736&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;-4.05%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, COL, CHV, DAL, DCU, HOU, NE, RBNY</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;17,041&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;33.81%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, CHV, DAL, DCU, HOU, KC, NE, RBNY</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;14,960&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;-12.22%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, CHV, CLB, HOU, KC, NE, RBNY, RSL</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;20,755&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;38.74%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, CHV, CLB, HOU, LA, NE, RSL, SEA</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Semifinals Totals</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;15,454&nbsp;</td>
<td align="left">&nbsp;NA</td>
<td colspan="4" align="center">NE v CHI – COL v LA</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;21,330&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;38.02%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="center">DCU v NE – HOU v COL</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;20,645&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;-3.21%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="center">NE v CHI – HOU v KC</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;17,348&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;-15.97%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="center">CLB v CHI – RSL v RBNY</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;23,548&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;35.74%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="center">LA v HOU – CHI v RSL</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Playoff Totals</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;13,709&nbsp;</td>
<td align="left">&nbsp;NA</td>
<td colspan="4" rowspan="5" align="center">MLS Cup 2009 &nbsp;Los Angeles v Real Salt Lake &nbsp;Sun, Nov 22, 8:30pm</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;14,455&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;5.44%&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;17,762&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;22.88%&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;15,437&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;-13.09%&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;21,314&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;38.07%&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>

Observations
 
The semifinals began with a near sellout at the HDC. Maybe a bit disappointing, but still a strong 25,000+. Toyota Park however was sold out by midweek. Another great showing for the league’s championship series.
While the league must be disappointed from a marketing standpoint that Chicago failed to join Los Angeles in MLS Cup ’09, they must also be very pleased about the live attendance to the 2009 playoffs. Leading up the the final match, the 2009 playoffs are the highest attended in league history, more than 3,500 per game higher than the previous top mark of 17,762 in 2007.
<hr>

<table border="1" bgcolor="#c1ffc1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" align="center">
<tbody><tr align="center">
<td colspan="3" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">MLS Quarterfinals – 2nd Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">RSL Advances 4-2</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Columbus</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/blog.dispatch.com/crew/">Columbus Dispatch – Crew XTra</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Real Salt Lake</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">3</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/rsltothecore.com/rslblog/">RSL – Behind the Shield</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">Chicago Advances 3-2</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Chicago</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/www.chicagonow.com/blogs/chicago-fire-confidential/">Chicago Fire Confidential</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">New England</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/www.revolutionsoccer.net/">Revolution Soccer</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">Houston Advances 1-0</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Houston</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">1</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/blogs.chron.com/soccer/">Soccer y Fútbol – Barnard Fallas</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Seattle</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sounders/">Seattle Times</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">Los Angeles Advances 3-2</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Los Angeles</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">1</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/thelagalaxy.blogspot.com/">LA – Official Blog</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Chivas USA</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/chivas.usa.mlsnet.com/t120/">Chivas USA – MLSNet</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">MLS Semifinals</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Los Angeles</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/thelagalaxy.blogspot.com/">LA – Official Blog</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Houston</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/blogs.chron.com/soccer/">Soccer y Fútbol – Barnard Fallas</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">&nbsp;</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Chicago</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0(4)</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/www.chicagonow.com/blogs/chicago-fire-confidential/">Chicago Fire Confidential</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Real Salt Lake</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0(5)</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/rsltothecore.com/rslblog/">RSL – Behind the Shield</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
MLS Cup
<a href="http:\/\/web.mlsnet.com/mls/events/mls_cup/2009/">Los Angeles v Salt Lake Sun, Nov 22, 8:30 pm ET on ESPN</a>
<hr> 
 
Unless they change the rules again …
MLS in 2010-2011 CONCACAF Champions League
<li>Columbus – Supporters’ Shield Winner 
</li><li>Seattle – Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Winner 
</li><li>Los Angeles – MLS Cup Finalist 
</li><li>Real Salt Lake – MLS Cup Finalist 
 
MLS in 2010 SuperLiga
</li><li>Houston 
</li><li>Chicago 
</li><li>Chivas USA 
</li><li>New England 
 
MLS Throw Ins
</li><li>Preki out of Chivas USA, in at TFC? (He played with Mo Johnston in KC) 
</li><li>Cousin Brucie(for all of you old timer easterners) Arena won MLS Coach of the Year honors for the 2nd time. 
</li><li>Is MLS lurking in the background of the USL/TOA situation? 
</li><li>Defender Omar Gonzalez wins MLS Rookie of the Year, the 2nd year running for a Galaxy defender(Franklin). 
</li><li>Of the <a href="http:\/\/web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20081126&amp;content_id=207037">10 players Seattle selected in the expansion draft</a>, 7 remain were on the roster as season’s end.
<ul> 
Union Town
I stated last week that I’ll be adopting the Philadelphia Union as my MLS team. The basis for this is nothing more than it’s the last MLS ‘domain’ that I lived in and that there is no professional soccer(MLS, USL-1, USL-2, TOA?) closer than a six+ hour drive from my home. On that note, here is the latest …
<li>The Philadelphia Union expansion draft will be on Wed, Nov 25. 
</li><li><a href="http:\/\/web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20081024&amp;content_id=198758&amp;vkey=pr_mls&amp;fext=.jsp">2008(Seattle) Expansion Draft rules</a>. I have yet to see any changes for 2009 posted by MLS. 
</li><li><a href="http:\/\/www.philadelphiaunion.com/Content1.aspx?cid=2.0">John Hackworth joins Peter Nowak on the Union coaching staff</a>. 
</li><li><a href="http:\/\/www.examiner.com/x-7377-Philadelphia-Soccer-Examiner~y2009m4d29-Mock-expansion-draft-part-one">Here is one of many websites</a> that will be speculating as to who will be protected and selected by the Union. 
</li><li><a href="http:\/\/www.google.com/#hl=en&amp;source=hp&amp;q=philadelphia+union+expansion+draft&amp;aq=0&amp;aqi=g1&amp;oq=philadelphia+union+expa&amp;fp=ed1a83d7582cb0e6">Click here for a google search on the upcoming expansion draft</a>. 
</li><li>Oh yeah, <a href="http:\/\/www.philadelphiaunionstore.com/">the official home kit for the Union</a> was introduced. Note: this is not an endorsement of the Philadelphia Union Store, just the best ‘official’ pic I could find. 
</li></ul>
And …
<a href="http:\/\/www.ussoccer.com/Teams/US-Men.aspx">The US team lost a friendly to Slovakia in Bratislava</a>. They’ll play Denmark on Nov 18.
</li>

Take Me Out to the Playoffs - Week 3, 2009 season - World Soccer Talk

Take Me Out to the Playoffs – Week 3, 2009 season

<div style="width: 277px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><div><figure class="image"></figure></div>The Galaxy are one victory from reaching MLS Cup 2009 thanks to 2009 Coach of the Year Bruce Arena</div>
The Los Angeles Galaxy began the 2009 season at best as a team in transition, at worst as a team in turmoil. Despite initial problems, the Galaxy now stands only one game from winning the Western Conference. After dispatching city rival Chivas USA in what could only be called the “Battle of Los Angeles”, the LA Galaxy turn their attention to the next task at hand on the road to MLS Cup 2009 – the Western Conference Final against the Houston Dynamo (Friday, 8PM PST – ESPN2).&nbsp; After a three season absence, “The Flagship Club of MLS” is&nbsp; one match away from playing for the MLS Cup for an unprecedented sixth time. Before this dream can become a reality, the Galaxy must take on an experienced Dynamo side that is playing in their third conference final in four years.
Los Angeles won the season series with Texas based club (1-0-1) winning at Home Depot Center, 1-0 on June 29th, which snapped La Naranja’s team record 11 game unbeaten streak.&nbsp; Following the victory over then top of the table Houston, the Galaxy began their transformation from also rans – 2-3-9 before the match against the Dynamo – to the top club in the Western Conference with a 10-3-3 tally after the win. This dramatic turn around can be attributed to the influence of newly named Coach of the Year Bruce Arena, who instituted a personnel change such as&nbsp; the addition of&nbsp; former US international defender Gregg Berhalter, who brought in a winning mentality into the team as well as a wealth of experience for the Galaxy’s myriad of young defenders.
“The attitude is better (under Arena), you always hear the team buying in to the coaching philosophy and that is exactly what we have done here. I can’t remember a time this year that a player has stepped up to management due to a lack of playing time. We all respect the decisions of Bruce (Arena) and Dave (Strachan) and are ready when called upon,” said forward Landon Donovan in a recent teleconference.
The improved chemistry in the locker room can only serve to help the Galaxy in what is sure to be a contentious 90 minutes.&nbsp; The last match these two played against one another was a heated affair that saw Brian Ching sent off after a ruckus caused by a challenge on Ricardo Clark by midfielder David Beckham.&nbsp; Over the two legs of the regular season series between the teams there were a total of 9 yellow cards as well as the one red card issued for violent conduct to the Houston forward.
One of the major impediments to Galaxy’s progress will be Brian Ching, who scored the series winning goal against the Seattle Sounders in the first overtime on Sunday, putting the Dynamo in the West Final. The captain of the Houston Dynamo has enjoyed a very successful season picking up several honors including the Dynamo’s Golden Boot for leading the team in goals scored with eight. Despite the danger that he poses, Ching is a familiar entity for Arena, who coached the Hawaiian forward during much of his career with the United States Men’s National Team.
“He’s a complete goal scorer and requires complete concentration from your back line. Brian is a true goal scorer, he can be hiding for certain segments of games but when he has an opportunity to jump on a chance, he’s there as we saw last game against Seattle. Overall,&nbsp; He’s a proven goal scorer in big games and we have to be really focused on the challenge of dealing Brian on Friday night,” said the 2009 MLS Coach of the Year.
Ultimately because of their improved chemistry and cohesion on the field, Los Angeles is on the brink of their sixth appearance in the MLS Cup Final.

Galaxy look to continue dream season against the Dynamo - World Soccer Talk

Galaxy look to continue dream season against the Dynamo

<div><figure class="image"></figure></div>
Soccer is a cruel game, and Chivas USA felt that cruelty tonight.&nbsp; While the Galaxy may have done enough to win the game, Chivas did not deserve to lose it.&nbsp; On the pitch, the differences between Chivas and the Galaxy were small and on the margins.&nbsp; Off the pitch, the difference in huge – the Galaxy will spend their week preparing to face Houston on Friday and Chivas will not.&nbsp; Some thoughts from Section 232:
Landon Donovan was a leader of men.&nbsp; Throughout his career, Donovan has been a bit of an enigma to many US fans.&nbsp; While few could ever doubt his skills as a player, there was always this nagging sense about him that he was soft.&nbsp; He was soft because he could not adjust to Germany (twice).&nbsp; He was soft because, as a member of the San Jose Earthquakes, he was the most talented player, but was always comfortable to let others take the lead.&nbsp; He was soft because in 2006 he looked ordinary for the US team when it mattered most.&nbsp; Over the past year, something has changed about Donovan, and it is all for the better.&nbsp; His effort, his desire to be in the forefront rather than the background, and his commitment to compete and challenge in every game has been extraordinary.&nbsp; Every player’s skills will desert them in some games, but commitment and effort are always a matter of choice.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sunday night, like he has all season, Donovan chose to never stop running, to put himself in positions to receive the ball, and to always try to do something useful with it.&nbsp; He did not always succeed, but his pass to Magee to create the penalty and his strike from the spot were movements from a man who oozes desire, and the rest of the team took his lead.
Chivas played with real fight, sometimes too much.&nbsp; Chivas badly wanted this game, and their desire was evident for all to see.&nbsp; Clearly, they walked into the HDC with a “give no quarter” attitude, and played a physical game.&nbsp; They wanted to make the Galaxy feel pressured at every moment and were not shy about putting a little extra into each tackle.&nbsp; Occasionally, Chivas were so intent on playing the man that they neglected to play the ball.&nbsp; I could not find the stat anywhere, but it seemed like the Galaxy had 60% of the possession, made Chivas chase, and eventually wore down a frustrated Chivas who took their anger out against the referee who seemed to call a decent game to me.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;For Chivas to get three yellow cards for dissent said far more about Chivas’ frustration than it did about the refereeing.
Both back lines did really well.&nbsp; Last week, both back lines spent the games figuring out original ways to look foolish.&nbsp; Tonight, both lines were tough as nails.&nbsp; While the Galaxy had some better looks at goal, they were all from the top of the box at best.&nbsp;&nbsp; Chivas’ Yamith Cuesta battled Edson Buddle all night and never gave him one good look at goal.&nbsp; At the other end, Omar Gonzalez put his nightmare playoff debut behind him and stood tall all night.&nbsp; On the couple of occasions that Maicon Santos turned Gonzalez, Omar chugged back and disrupted his shot.&nbsp; In the end, Chivas had only two shots on goal the entire night.&nbsp; Chivas has a remarkable 10 corner kicks, but the Galaxy marked well and none of the corners ended up causing GK Donovan Rickets a bit of trouble.
Beckham was in the background, until his moment of brilliance. For the most part, Beckham was mediocre.&nbsp; His passing was a little forced and lacked some sharpness.&nbsp; He had the best scoring chance of the game with an open shot 12 yards from goal and sent it straight over the bar.&nbsp; Then, in the 69th minute, the Galaxy broke, and Beckham released Donovan with a 40 yard cross-field pass that beautifully evaded the defenders and landed at Donovan’s feet so softly that you could hear the crowd suck in its breath at the sight of it.&nbsp; Donovan then sent in a neat chip to Magee, and rather than kick the ball at Magee’s feet, Cuesta made strong contact with a different ball a little higher up.&nbsp; Penalty.&nbsp; Game.&nbsp; &nbsp;Whatever Beckham’s faults as a member of the Galaxy (and those faults are well categorized by many commentators, including myself) it is hard to imagine any other player in the MLS making that kind of pass.
The Galaxy/Dynamo game on Friday should be a classic.

LA Galaxy 1- Chivas USA 0 – Thoughts from the HDC - World Soccer Talk

LA Galaxy 1- Chivas USA 0 – Thoughts from the HDC

<div><figure class="image"></figure></div>
The playoff numbers look like this…
<table border="1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center">
<tbody><tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">5 year comparison</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Conference Semifinals – 1st Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Home Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;12,147&nbsp;</td>
<td align="center">NA</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Colorado</td>
<td>&nbsp;Los Angeles</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;9,533&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-21.52%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Colorado</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;14,245&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;49.42%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Dallas</td>
<td>&nbsp;Kansas City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;10,476&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-26.46%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Salt Lake</td>
<td>&nbsp;Kansas City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;19,985&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;90.77%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Seattle</td>
<td>&nbsp;Salt Lake</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">5 year comparison</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Conference Semifinals – 2nd Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Home Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;14,400&nbsp;</td>
<td align="center">NA</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Dallas</td>
<td>&nbsp;San Jose</td>
<td>&nbsp;DC United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;15,938&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;10.69%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Dallas</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;DC United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;19,838&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;24.47%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;DC United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;19,444&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-1.99%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;Columbus</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;21,526&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;10.71%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;Columbus</td>
<td>&nbsp;Houston</td>
<td>&nbsp;Los Angeles</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Quarterfinals Totals(both legs)</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;13,273&nbsp;</td>
<td align="center">NA</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, COL, DAL, DCU, LA, NE, RBNY, SJ</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;12,736&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;-4.05%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, COL, CHV, DAL, DCU, HOU, NE, RBNY</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;17,041&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;33.81%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, CHV, DAL, DCU, HOU, KC, NE, RBNY</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;14,960&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;-12.22%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, CHV, CLB, HOU, KC, NE, RBNY, RSL</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;20,755&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;38.74%&nbsp;</td>
<td colspan="4" align="left">&nbsp;CHI, CHV, CLB, HOU, LA, NE, RSL, SEA</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Observations
 
The 2nd legs of the conference semifinals began with an extremely disappointing crowd of just over 10,000 in Columbus. This showing was so poor as to prompt Jason Davis of Match Fit USA to write that <a href="http:\/\/www.matchfitusa.com/2009/11/time-to-move-columbus.html">it’s time for the Crew to move</a>. No such issues in Chicago, whose fans didn’t turn out in great numbers during the regular season, but sold out Toyota Park, with 21,528 in attendance. In Houston, 27,400 saw the Dynamo eliminate the Sounders. The round finished off with a sellout at the HDC.
The home offices of MLS must be feeling pretty good. As you can see from the above table, the quarterfinal round of the playoffs drew over 38% higher attendance averages than last year, despite less than stellar turnouts in Columbus, New England and Salt Lake.
<hr>

<table border="1" bgcolor="#c1ffc1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" align="center">
<tbody><tr align="center">
<td colspan="3" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Playoff Games – 2nd Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">RSL Advances 4-2</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Columbus</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/blog.dispatch.com/crew/">Columbus Dispatch – Crew XTra</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Real Salt Lake</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">3</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/rsltothecore.com/rslblog/">RSL – Behind the Shield</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">Chicago Advances 3-2</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Chicago</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/www.chicagonow.com/blogs/chicago-fire-confidential/">Chicago Fire Confidential</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">New England</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/www.revolutionsoccer.net/">Revolution Soccer</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">Houston Advances 1-0</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Houston</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">1</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/blogs.chron.com/soccer/">Soccer y Fútbol – Barnard Fallas</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Seattle</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sounders/">Seattle Times</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">Los Angeles Advances 3-2</td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Los Angeles</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">1</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/thelagalaxy.blogspot.com/">LA – Official Blog</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Chivas USA</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/chivas.usa.mlsnet.com/t120/">Chivas USA – MLSNet</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
MLS Final Four
Los Angeles hosts Houston Fri, Nov 13, 11pm ET – Chicago will host RSL Sat, Nov 14, 7pm ET
It seems as though Bob Bradley will have to eliminate Landon Donovan, Rico Clark, Stuart Holden and Brian Ching for consideration for the upcoming USMNT friendlies against Slovakia(Nov 14) and Denmark(Nov 18). But with Columbus’ loss, expect two-time MLS Defender of the Year Chad Marshall to get a call.
<hr> 
 
MLS Throw Ins
<li>Tom Soehn will not be at the helm of DC United next year. 
</li><li>Despite playing every minute of every game, Revs rookie Darius Barnes was not in the final list for Rookie of the Year. 
</li><li>Dilly Duka, USMNT U-20 player, Red Bull Academy and Rutgers star is <a href="http:\/\/voices.washingtonpost.com/soccerinsider/2009/11/duka_to_mls.html">reported by Steve Goff</a> to have signed a 4 year contract with MLS. Look for him to land with the Red Bulls who hold the 2nd pick in the January MLS SuperDraft. 
 
And …
The US team lost to Italy in the round of 16 of the <a href="http:\/\/www.ussoccer.com/News/U-17-MNT/2009/10/US-U17-MNT-Qualify-for-Second-Round-of-World-Cup-After-Defeating-UAE-1-0.aspx">FIFA Men’s U-17 World Cup</a>.
</li>

MLS attendance report: Nov. 9, 2009 - World Soccer Talk

MLS attendance report: Nov. 9, 2009

<div><figure class="image"></figure></div>
The playoff numbers look like this… 

<table border="1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center">
<tbody><tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">5 year comparison</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="7" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Conference Semifinals – 1st Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Avg</td>
<td bgcolor="#CCFFCC">+/-</td>
<td colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Home Teams</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2005&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;12,147&nbsp;</td>
<td align="center">NA</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Colorado</td>
<td>&nbsp;Los Angeles</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2006&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;9,533&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-21.52%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Colorado</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2007&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;14,245&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;49.42%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chicago</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Dallas</td>
<td>&nbsp;Kansas City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2008&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;10,476&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;-26.46%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;NY</td>
<td>&nbsp;Salt Lake</td>
<td>&nbsp;Kansas City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">&nbsp;2009&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;19,985&nbsp;</td>
<td align="right">&nbsp;90.77%&nbsp;</td>
<td>&nbsp;New England</td>
<td>&nbsp;Seattle</td>
<td>&nbsp;Salt Lake</td>
<td>&nbsp;Chivas USA</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Observations
No big surprise that Seattle packed in over 35,000 for their playoff debut. But a bit of a surprise that Salt Lake only drew 11,499 compared to last year’s first leg,14,719. A pathetically small crowd showed up at Gillette Stadium for the Revs/Fire match. The Chivas USA home leg of the HDC Bowl drew a hefty 25,000+.
And just to pre-empt the inevitable comments like ‘well without Seattle’s home game…’, the 3 non-Seattle games averaged 14,711, still a significant increase over the 1st legs in ’08. My comment, get over it. Seattle is a part of the league, and a good part at that. We should only hope that Philadelphia, Vancouver and Portland come close to equally Seattle’s successful entry into MLS.
Fan Revolution Needed in New England 
 
The Revs have played 15 home playoff matches, excluding the 2002 MLS Cup Final. Average attendance: 10,097. Games with under 10,000 in attendance: 8. Now I know the stadium is not readily accessible to many fans, but this is a 4 time MLS Cup finalist. 

<hr>

<table border="1" bgcolor="#c1ffc1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" align="center">
<tbody><tr align="center">
<td colspan="3" bgcolor="#CCFFCC">Playoff Games – 1st Leg</td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">&nbsp;</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Seattle</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sounders/">Seattle Times</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Houston</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/blogs.chron.com/soccer/">Soccer y Fútbol – Barnard Fallas</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">&nbsp;</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">Real Salt Lake</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">1</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/rsltothecore.com/rslblog/">RSL – Behind the Shield</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Columbus</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">0</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/blog.dispatch.com/crew/">Columbus Dispatch – Crew XTra</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">&nbsp;</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFF33">New England</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/www.revolutionsoccer.net/">Revolution Soccer</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Chicago</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">1</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/www.chicagonow.com/blogs/chicago-fire-confidential/">Chicago Fire Confidential</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="center">
<td colspan="3">&nbsp;</td></tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Chivas USA</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/chivas.usa.mlsnet.com/t120/">Chivas USA – MLSNet</a></td>
</tr>
<tr align="right">
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">Los Angeles</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF">2</td>
<td bgcolor="#FFFFFF"><a href="http:\/\/thelagalaxy.blogspot.com/">LA – Official Blog</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr> 
 
MLS Throw Ins
<li>The 8 teams allowing the fewest goals are in the playoffs. 
</li><li>3 of the top 8 scoring teams are not in the playoffs – Dallas(1), DC United(2), Colorado(4). 
</li><li>San Jose allowed the most goals this season(50), 12 fewer than last year’s 62 allowed by LA. 
</li><li>New England took the fewest shots, but Seattle had the fewest shots on goal. 
</li><li>Toronto were offsides more than any other team. 
</li><li>Chivas USA committed the most fouls. 
</li><li>Seattle suffered the most fouls. 
</li><li>30.7% of the games ended in a draw compared to 27.1% in 2008. 
</li><li>New England rookie Darius Barnes played every minute of every game. 
</li><li>RSL scored the most goals in the final 15 mintues(18). TFC scored the fewest(2). 
</li><li>FCD allowed the most goals in the final 15 mintues(14). Colorado allowed the fewest(5). 
 
And …
The US team advances to the round of 16 in the <a href="http:\/\/www.ussoccer.com/News/U-17-MNT/2009/10/US-U17-MNT-Qualify-for-Second-Round-of-World-Cup-After-Defeating-UAE-1-0.aspx">FIFA Men’s U-17 World Cup</a>.
</li>

MLS attendance report: Nov. 1, 2009 - World Soccer Talk

MLS attendance report: Nov. 1, 2009

<div id="attachment_6846" style="width: 521px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><div><figure class="image"></figure></div>Houston visits Seattle in MLS Cup playoffs</div>
Our reward for enduring through 32 weeks of regular season matches is a fascinating final four in the Western Conference playoffs. While the Chivas USA versus Galaxy doubleheader in Los Angeles stacks up to be a tough defensive struggle for both squads, expect fireworks from the Houston Dynamo and the Seattle Sounders FC. The Sounders won twice against Houston in Seattle this season – once in the regular season and once in the US Open Cup playoffs – and will hope to repeat that result when the two teams face off in game one of their MLS Cup playoff matchup tonight at Qwest Field. Houston will have their full squad available this time around, and hope the phrase “third time’s a charm” holds true. Over 33,000 fans are expected to attend the expansion team’s first foray into postseason soccer, creating what will be a formidable home field advantage for the Sounders. Game time is 10pm on the east coast, 7pm out west – this is beyond a doubt Thursday night “Must See TV!”
Does Seattle have what it takes to win tonight? Home and home playoff series have historically been toss-ups for the #2 seed versus #3 seed pairing in MLS. The key in this aggregate goals format is a strong start in game one. After a lull during the middle of the season, Seattle has recaptured their confidence with a string of strong performances both away from home and on the artificial turf of Qwest Field. However, can this team adjust to the pressures of the MLS playoffs? The experience will be new for many of those wearing the Green and Blue, but not for two of their key players – Freddie Ljungberg and Kasey Keller. Ljungberg, from his central midfielder position, has orchestrated the last two Seattle wins, tallying four assists from their 5 goals. The Swede international should relish the chance to prove himself on the big stage that defines the American sports playoffs. On the defensive side of the ball, Keller and his defensive four finished the MLS season allowing a league low 10 goals at home. The veteran goalkeeper provides the confidence and leadership that will make it tough for Houston to break through tonight.
The key for Seattle is the play of their strikers – Freddy Montero and Nate Jaqua. The two combined for 21 goals and 14 assists this season, eye-popping numbers for an expansion team. They face a Houston Dynamo defense that should be at full strength, not the makeshift lineup they faced in their two victories earlier this season. With Ljungberg providing the service, Montero and Jaqua will need to convert on their scoring chances in order to gain the victory tonight. The Seattle defense is ready to do their part, getting a result beyond a draw will be up to the forwards.
Will Houston regain their playoff swagger after last season’s early exit? Seattle says all the right things, but they must be happy just to get to the playoffs in their inaugural season. Houston expects to be in the postseason every year, and believes they will triumph in the MLS Cup Final. The devastating loss to New York Red Bulls in 2008 – the biggest playoffs upset in MLS history – should provide ample motivation this time around. Dom Kinnear’s veteran squad was criticized for playing on cruise control during stretches of the regular season, often displaying a lack in discipline along the way. Still, the Dynamo finished the season with the second best record in the Western Conference. Players like Brian Ching, Ricardo Clark, Pat Onstad, and Brad Davis have extensive playoff experience – they can help lead their team past the overconfidence of last season toward redemption in 2009.
Let’s not forget the emerging stars on the Dynamo, midfielder Stuart Holden and defender Geoff Cameron. Look for both players to make a difference in these playoffs beyond just tonight. Confidence never seems to be missing from Holden’s game, and along with Davis, he will provide plenty of spark and energy to the Dynamo offense. Against a Seattle defense that gives up very little at home, Holden and Davis could prove to be the difference makers in stealing a result ahead of their return match in Houston.
What is the key for Seattle? Simply, Freddie Ljungberg needs to play the role of creator for the offense. Before their come from behind victory against FC Dallas in the closing game of the 2009 season, the Sounders had been held scoreless over four games. The packed house at Qwest Field should be all the motivation Seattle needs to find the back of the net. Ljungberg has the experience and verve to make that happen.
What is Houston looking for in this match? Getting off to a fast start will help immeasurably in this match. Not only will the confidence of their less experienced opponent be damaged, but an early goal would help quiet the huge sellout crowd. If Ricardo Clark can limit Ljungberg’s effectiveness, the Dynamo will be poised to leave Seattle with nothing less than a draw.
What can we expect? Seattle will want to bank as many goals as possible before the second game in Houston – no easy task given their paucity of scoring at home and the resoluteness of the Dynamo defense. Their fan base already dreams of filling up Qwest Field for the Western Conference Championship and the MLS Cup Finals, and will be loud from the opening whistle. The Houston Dynamo, not shackled with the “playoff favorite” label that weighed them down in 2008, look to survive their trip to Seattle with at least a draw, setting up momentum for the return leg in Houston next week. Expect both teams to find their scoring touch tonight, with the game ending in a pulsating 1-1 draw.

Houston Dynamo and Seattle Sounders FC Playoff Preview - World Soccer Talk

Houston Dynamo and Seattle Sounders FC Playoff Preview

Latest news from 2009 MLS Playoffs. Find out about all the news related to 2009 MLS Playoffs on worldsoccertalk.com

ALL POSTS TAGGED "2009 MLS Playoffs"

Bruce Arena

MLS Cup Final Preview Part Two: Coaching and Intangibles

Leagues: MLS

Take Me Out to the Playoffs – Week 3, 2009 season

Gregg Berhalter

Galaxy look to continue dream season against the Dynamo

Chivas USA

LA Galaxy 1- Chivas USA 0 – Thoughts from the HDC

Leagues: MLS

MLS attendance report: Nov. 9, 2009

Leagues: MLS

MLS attendance report: Nov. 1, 2009

Leagues: MLS

Houston Dynamo and Seattle Sounders FC Playoff Preview