Kick This!

United 2 - Barons 0 June 30, 2009

Christian Gomez scored the winning goal on a penalty kick late in the second half. The fact that the Barons stymied DC such that a player of Gomito's stature had to be subbed in is all you need to know about this game. The Barons gave up another goal at the death, but it looked like they had their own in the 89th that wasn't called.

Let's face it. When an opposing side is committed to bunkering at all costs, it is very difficult to get the ball into their net. However, while the amature Ocean City Barons did a passable imitation of the US Men's National Team (maybe they can lend the nats their coach), our DC United did not resemble Brazil. And so we come to tonight's rant, because I am pissed off.

Goodbye, Louis

DC United and Louis Crayton have parted ways. Joy accompanied his arrival last year, as a savior come to rescue United from dismal performances by well-meaning but overmatched Zack Wells.

I cheered along with my section as Crayton made awesome saves, dribbled the ball out of the box, and brought infectious enthusiasm to an otherwise moribund team. But my favorite memory of Crayton is something that happened at the United kickoff lunch this year . . . .

USA 2 - Spain 0 June 24, 2009

Did the Earth just wobble on its axis?

The guys in the photo to the right turned in an epic performance, earning victory through hard work, determination, and heart.

The game looked something like this, only with soccer:

Gold Cup Callups

Soccer Insider reports that Santino Quaranta and Dejan Jakovic have been called up by the US and Canadian national teams, respectively, for the Gold Cup. Congratulations to both. For Quaranta, this marks another milestone in his come back. You can't help feeling happy for the guy. On the other hand, what does this mean for DC United?

Rapids 3 - United 0 June 20, 2009

We keep hearing about how United hasn't won at Colorado since May 2000, followed by the conclusion that this must be the result of the altitude. Malarky! Other teams go there and don't get so comprehensively smoked.

Then there is the excuse that United was physically and mentally worn out from their big games against Chicago and Seattle, as well as from traveling. There is some truth to this. However, the biggest liabilities on the field the other night--John and Janicki--shouldn't have been worn out since they haven't been playing much recently at all.

Then what's the problem exactly? Aside from fatigue and the turf, the coaching.

Talon Rating:  1 out of 5 Birds

Seattle 3 - United 3 June 17, 2009

Some ties feel like a win, others a loss, and some, like last night's, feel like losing your virginity in the middle of a hurricane. During an earthquake.

On rollerskates.

For the Seattle Sounders, it will certainly feel like a loss. The green team had the better of the run of play and consistently looked dangerous, with 9 shots on goal to United's 3. As I had feared in advance, Seattle's speedy, dynamic offense outplayed United's shaky defensive midfield and backline for most of the night.

Talon Rating:  4 out of 5 birds (the 4th bird is for Wicks and Pontius, and for how entertaining the match was overall)

Matchnight: Arkansas 4 - Virginia 3

Editor's Note: this post was going to be about the DC United v. Seattle Sounders FC soccer match. Because, however, ESPN in its infinite wisdom deemed college baseball to be more important, we're going to roll with what we've got. Thanks, ESPN, for making my day.

There are places in this country--great, big, landlocked square states--that embody pure, red- blooded American sporting values. One such place is Omaha, Nebraska, site of the College World Series. From now on, when I think sports, I'll think Virginia and Arkansas.

We begin our review in the 9th inning. How did we get here? Who cares?

Witness the lantern-jawed pitcher struggle as the pesky, opportunistic Wahoos get on base. Strategies must be considered: bring the infield in? And the outfield?

The singular "ping" of ball on bat, way out there in the middle of the prairie, fills me with an urge to stand and salute the flag.

United 2 - Fire 1 June 13, 2009

When United lined up to face the Chicago Fire on Saturday night at RFK, the air was humid and thick with questions, including:

• Would United be able to string together 90 consecutive minutes of solid play?

• Would Josh Wicks, who has been making the case to be United's regular starting keeper, rise to the occasion?

• Would our sometimes spotty defense remain strong and organized against a fast and dangerous Chicago team?

Black Celebration

On a humid night by the Anacostia, United slays its archrival the Fire to take first place in the Eastern Conference.
Josh Wicks was easily man of the match, with a couple of monster saves and excellent control of the box. Honorable mention to Jakovic and Pontius. Rasberries for Fred.
And yet?
Chicago seemed the better and more dangerous side for much of the run of play. For United it was same-old, same-old, with an often punchless offense and defensive breakdowns.
Why? There's no point in kvetching now. It's time to savor the victory and enjoy the rest of the night. Check back later for the full match review.

Nationals Park

The other day I was dragged to my first game at Nationals Park. I shall not bore you with a lengthy exegesis on this singular experience. However, a few general observations about the stadium may be of interest as we daydream about the new soccer palace that Mr. Will Chang is sure to build for us. (Right, Mr. Chang? Mr. Chang?? Hello???)