The Columbus experience and what's to come...

Image courtesy of MLSnet.com

Back, extremely tired, and somewhat frustrated, I have to say that all in all the trip to Columbus was DEFINITELY worth the money. As supporters we did our part and while the on field product from our boys wasn't good enough, I still found positives to take out of the performance.

In the end I found the match to be a very textbook result. Both teams had 13 shots. Columbus took 2 of their opportunities where we took none. It's as simple as that. If Samuel had hit that penalty the match would have been completely different.

What's done is done though, and we will only get better throughout the year. I think our problems are very small compared to some other teams. DC United opened up with a 2-0 loss to the Wizards, while that supposedly offensively powered Galaxy went down 4-0 to Christian Gomez and the Rapids. The Revs crushed Houston 3-0 as well. The three losing teams in this case are expected to do big things this season.


Only 2 days after the season opener and we have two more rumoured signings who could in deed be significant ones. Rohan Ricketts and Laurent Robert are training with the team, both of whom are wingers. The latter, formerly of Newcastle United, would provide some much needed attacking flare down the left side of midfield. In this article Mo says that we "have 'two big-time players' sitting in the wings." The article also says he hopes to unveil them to the public by Thursday or Friday. Are things looking up? I think so. We had dozens of trialists who Mo said we were "looking at". In this article he has allegedly said he (Mo - not Ives or Craig Forrest) hopes to unveil them by the end of this week.

In my opinion Robert is definitely worth getting excited over. He has one goal in nine appearances for France and isn't too old yet (32 years-old). We have not yet had a quality player from the left side so I am really hoping things work out with him. Here is some video action of both of these players:





If either of these rumours are true, what would our best 11 look like next week in DC?

-------------------Edwards---------------------
-Wynne------Velez--------Marshall---Brennan-
Ricketts-------Edu--------Robinson------Robert
------------Samuel-------Cunningham----------

We could be in for a pleasant surprise this week. C'mon Mo, get it done!

Cheers for now guys.

Pre First Kick Wish List

The title says everything. Toronto FC supporters have been frustrated (to say the least) by the lack of significant signings this off season. On top of this, we've been frustrated by the rumoured signings that have not taken place, i.e. Kiki Musampa, Darren Huckerby, and Amado Guevara. With First Kick just on the horizon (1 day, 22 hours) I am looking ahead at what I would like done with the 800K we have in cap space. Every player below has a realistic chance of coming to TFC either through rumours or just the fact that he's already in MLS (though I do wish for Leo Messi to come). Anyhow, Here is my "Pre First Kick Wish List" for TFC.

1. Amado Guevara

The 2004 League MVP has been in negotiations to come back to Major League Soccer after a bust up last season with Chivas USA. Toronto FC, as we should be, are VERY interested. Steve Goff, in the Washington Post, said today that a deal right now appears to be dead. However, I emailed Ives Galarcep and he said "It's still in the works. It's not an easy process however the deal is not dead. That's the word I got at noon, at least." If we have to wait for the Honduran season to end he would be coming after May 5. Either way, if Guevara does end up in TFC colours he would potentially be the answer to our goalscoring woes as the attacking midfielder we need to badly.

2. Darren Huckerby

I am not counting this rumour as dead. The Norwich City star would fill a hole on either wing and at 32 years-old, he can still do the job for a few more years. Injuries may be a question, however. Chronic hip problems have caused him to need surgery and it may be a test on Huckerby to play on the field turf which is allegedly harder on the legs than real grass. If we sign him this season it would have to be in the summer window, which begins on June 15. If this is the case - Huckerby would still be around for 18 out of 30 games, which is plenty of time to do some damage.

3. Terry Cooke

There have been no distinct rumours linking Cooke with us. However, I can remember reading that he was complaining about the lack of fan support in Colorado. He is as effective a right winger as Ronnie O'Brien and would fill that gaping hole quite nicely. As well, he is known in Colorado for racking up the assists which would help us in the playmaking department as well. The best way to acquire Cooke would be through a trade. Given the Rapids' current defensive situation, we could possibly bait them with Tyrone Marshall as well as an allocation. Regardless if we make a move for him or not, Cooke would be a worthy replacement for Ronnie O.

4. Dave Van Den Bergh

The capped (albeit by Van Basten) Dutch left winger would be my second choice for the left side behind Huckerby. The Red Bulls are apparently desperate for a left back and a left midfielder. Though it may be a bit of a gamble, I would give up Todd Dunivant (given our defensive depth with Brennan and the versatility of Velez) to get a winger the quality of Van Den Bergh. Having a Dutch background, I am a bit biased, however I think this guy is a great playmaker in MLS. He was available in the 2006 expansion draft (yes, ours...) yet somehow we ended up with Andy Welsh. Either way, to get two of Huckerby, Cooke, and Van Den Bergh would answer many questions we have on the wings.

Take those four players above and we've answered a bunch of our questions. The one that still lingers in my mind? Goalscoring.

5. Kevin Gall

I don't know what the word is on this guy or if we've signed him already, but Kevin Gall, amidst a hysterically poor team performance, was a bright spot against Charleston. Granted, we only saw him for 90 minutes and he was given no service whatsoever, every time he did get the ball he was very quick, decisive, and in control. He reminded me of Taylor Twellman in a way, or maybe Chris Rolfe. Around the 90th minute he made an individual run up the field surrounded by Battery defenders. Though it amounted to nothing - it shows that he's a workhorse and that even after 90 minutes he'll put his head down and have a go at the opposition. Take any other forward on our team in that situation in a match and he would just lay it back to the defense to fiddle around with for a bit. You may say I'm looking into this WAY too much - but for some reason I have a good feeling about this guy.

So guys, what does Columbus have in store for us? We will find out in less than 48 hours. It became apparent that the cup between us and the Crew is called the "Trillium Cup," based of course on the official flowers of both Ontario and Ohio.

What about MLS fantasy? Here is my starting eleven for week one:


I know you are all jealous of my skills as an MLS manager. See you guys in Columbus for First Kick!

My Eastern Conference Preview

Another day has come and gone so that leaves our countdown to Columbus sitting at 4 more days. Yesterday I previewed the Western Conference, so today is my Eastern Conference preview.

MLS Season Preview: Eastern Conference

Chicago Fire

Last Year: 4th (East), 7th (Overall)
Playoffs: Eliminated in the Semi Finals by New England

Lead by Cuauhtémoc Blanco, the Fire will be looking for him and newly acquired Polish international Tomasz Frankowski to link up well in the attack. Add in Chris Rolfe and you have one of the league's best strike forces - on paper. Jon Busch will likely get the nod in goal with C.J. Brown and Gonazlo Segares tightening up the defense. Colombian Wilman Conde wants to go to the Red Bulls to play under Osorio, but may have to stick it out in Chicago. New manager Dennis Hamlett will be hoping for more consistency with the Chicago Fire this season. After a 3-0-1 start last season the team faltered down the road however still managed a 10-10-10 record. The Fire look to be poised for another trip to the playoffs in 2008.

Predicted Finish: 3rd (East)

Columbus Crew

Last Year: 6th (East), 9th (Overall)
Playoffs: Did not qualify

The team is lead by two very influential players: captain Frankie Hejduk and Argentine playmaker Guillermo Barros Schelotto. They picked up former DC United player Brian Carroll from the Earthquakes and he should provide some more depth in the midfield along with US U23 star Eddie Gaven. Gino Padula, formerly of Queens Park Rangers will add some more force to the Crew's defense while Venezuelan forward Alejandro Moreno should provide a majority of the team's goals. The club will hope Nicolas Hernandez, acquired from the Rapids, can form a strong partnership with Moreno, and with Schelotto's playmaking abilities it is a definite possibility. No major acquisitions this off season could hurt the Crew.

Predicted Finish: 7th (East)

D.C. United

Last Year: 1st (East), 1st (Overall)
Playoffs: Eliminated in the quarter-finals by Chicago

D.C. lost star-blogger Bobby Boswell, starting goalkeeper Troy Perkins and former MVP Christian Gomez this off season. Luckily for United, even with these losses, they are stronger on paper than last year. Another invasion of South American signings in Gonzalo Peralta, Jose Carvalho, Gonzalo Martinez, Franco Neill and a DP signing of Marcelo Gallardo will definitely add flare to an already flourishing team. With 2007 Golden Boot winner Luciano Emilio and MLS' all-time leading scorer, Jaime Moreno, the goals will not be hard to come by in the American apital. If this team plays to their potential it appears they could run away with the East.

Predicted Finish: 1st (East)

Kansas City Wizards

Last Year: 5th (East), 8th (Overall)
Playoffs: Eliminated in the semi-finals by Houston

At the beginning of 2007 the Wizards seemed unbeatable. Eddie Johnson was firing on all cylinders and the team was one of the most exciting to watch in the league. Over the season the team struggled however still managed to qualify for the playoffs. Eddie Johnson left for Fulham in January, however the club have signed a suitable replacement in former Argentine international Claudio Lopez as their DP. Kevin Hartman is a proven goalkeeper while Jimmy Conrad continues to be one of the league's best defenders. A move from Arrowhead Stadium to Community America Ballpark should help the team's attendance figures however they are desperately in need of their planned Soccer Specific Stadium. The Wizards may be unpredictable this season but should still make the playoffs.

Predicted Finish: 4th (East)

New England Revolution

Last Year: 2nd (East), 4th (Overall)
Playoffs: MLS Cup Finalists

The Revs should enjoy another successful season in the northeast. Though two significant losses may hurt the team - Andy Dorman and Pat Noonan - they are still one of the league's strongest clubs. Lead by Michael Parkhurst, the Revs have further bolstered their defense by signing American international Chris Albright. Taylor Twellman will remain the go to guy up front for the Revolution while Shalrie Joseph should continue to dominate the midfield. After a series of MLS Cup slip ups is this the year? Only time will tell. They should, though, qualify for the playoffs easily at the end of the season.

Predicted Finish: 2nd (East)

New York Red Bulls

Last Year: 3rd (East), 6th (Overall)
Playoffs: Eliminated in the quarter-finals by New England

Some say the best defense is a good offense. The New York Red Bulls with certainly be hoping this is true. A superstar strike force of Juan Pablo Angel and Jozy Altidore is the league's most lethal, however the team's defense has not improved at all since last year. Claudio Reyna is healthy again, but for how long is the question. Their goalkeeping department isn't overly strong however with either Jon Conway or Zach Thornton they shouldn't struggle in the net. Last year the Red Bulls were one of the league's top teams on paper, however since the season ended it has all gone downhill for them. I think their defense will just be too leaky for them to secure a playoff spot. Juan Carlos Osorio might end up desperately looking for players.

Predicted Finish: 6th (East)

Toronto FC

Last Season: 7th (East), 13th (League)
Playoffs: Did not qualify

The Reds from the far north looked as if they were on their way to something special in their expansion year before a rash of injuries depleted the squad. Mo Johnston has not made any major signings so far and traded away arguable the team's best player in Ronnie O'Brien. The good news? With the amount of cap space and money at Johnston's disposal, TFC fans can hope for a number of quality players to come in throughout the season. Toronto are desperately in need of two wingers and an attacking midfielder and if they can get these positions filled quickly they may be able to do something this year. That is, however, a big "if".

Predicted Finish: 5th (East)

Just a quick recap of how I think things will pan out in the Eastern Conference this season:

1. D.C. United
2. New England Revolution
3. Chicago Fire
4. Kansas City Wizards
5. Toronto FC
6. New York Red Bulls
7. Columbus Crew

This ends my team by team season preview. I'm thinking about putting together a weekly power rankings which I will update after each week. Anyways, let's hope our boys are having a good final week of preparation!

My Western Conference Preview

Well guys, the wait is almost over. Only five days until we raid Columbus. With First Kick just around the corner, I wanted to offer my edition of a "Season Preview," so, here it is!

MLS Season Preview: Western Conference

C.D. Chivas USA

Last Year: 1st (West), 2nd (Overall)
Playoffs: Eliminated in the quarter-finals by Kansas City

Preki's first season in charge of the Goats proved to be a very successful one. Maykel Galindo, a Cuban inernational, rose to stardom in MLS scoring 12 goals. Keeper Brad Guzan was given goalkeeper of the year honours while Preki took home the award for coach of the year. What can we expect this year? Much of the same. The side hasn't made any real significant transfers aside from bringing in former TFC favourite Alecko Eskandarian. Moreover, still with Chivas this year are Claudio Suarez, Brad Guzan, Maykel Galindo, Ante Razov, Sasha Kljestan and Jonathan Bornstein. Not a bad core if you ask me. Winning the West will be a difficult task again this year and Chivas will need to be firing on all cylinders to regain their title.

Predicted Finish: 2nd (West)

Colorado Rapids

Last Year: 4th (West), 10th (Overall)
Playoffs: Did not qualify

After a roller coaster season last year for the Rapids, a definite improvement has been made in the team's attack in the form of Christian Gomez. The former league MVP comes over from DC United. Hercules Gomez should continue to lead the strike force and the other Gomez will be a valuable asset in helping his cause. Terry Cooke is one of the league's most effective wingers and should have no problem linking up with either of the Gomez's. Add in USMNT member Pablo Mastroeni and you have a pretty strong midfield. Bouna Condoul should continue his fine play in goal for the Rapids after seeing action for the Senegalese national team at the African Cup of Nations. With their nice new stadium, new logo, new kits, and new star midfielder, the playoffs should be within the Rapids' reach in 2008.

Predicted Finish: 4th (West)

FC Dallas

Last Year: 3rd (West), 5th (Overall)
Playoffs: Eliminated in the quarter-finals by Houston

FC Dallas will compete again quite well this year in the west. They have several unproven players who will need to step up - especially with the departure of striker Carlos Ruiz. Adding Mexican international Duilio Davino definitely shores up the backline while the club should also have a healthy Adrian Serioux for a full season this term. Look for Juan Toja to continue his fine form from last season in the midfield while Kenny Cooper will spearhead the Hoops' attack. I have a feeling they will compete with the Colorado Rapids this season for the final playoff spot in the West.

Predicted Finish: 5th (West)

Houston Dynamo

Last Year: 2nd (West), 3rd (Overall)
Playoffs: MLS Cup Champions

The Dynamo will look to Canadian international Dwayne DeRosario to be up to his old tricks again. As well, with a fit and in form Brian Ching the team's offense looks like it could be firing on all cylinders. Could a lack of depth up front be an issue for Houston? Potentially. The losses of Ngwenya, Jaqua, and Dalgleish could hurt them in the end. They have brought in Bobby Boswell to help shore up an already solid back line. At midfield, the team is absolutely stacked with talent: Mulrooney, Clark, Mullen, Davis, Holden, and the afformentioned DeRosario. I think this team will win the West, however might fall short in the playoffs. It will interesting to see how the Dynamo do in their quest for a third straight MLS Cup Championship.

Predicted Finish: 1st (West)

Los Angeles Galaxy

Last Year: 5th (West), 11th (MLS)
Playoffs: Did not qualify

It's do or die for Alexei Lalas and his Galaxy. The "Chelsea" of Major League Soccer is looking forward to an exciting year with a healthy (finally) David Beckham. They've brought in a truly world class coach in Ruud Gullit and have signed Carlos Ruiz for a second spell with the club. The triangle of Beckham-Donovan-Ruiz has the potential to be lethal this year. A lot remains to be asked about the team's defense, however. A "nobody" in goal could be a downfall for the team while Abel Xavier and Ante Jazic will be relied on to lead the back line. Losing Chris Albright could hurt the team in the long run as Gullit may be searching for defenders in the first few weeks of the season. Can money buy you success? Only time will tell. If the Galaxy choke again this year, however, Mr. Lalas may be collecting unemployment. That said, the potential is definitely there for this Galaxy side.

Predicted Finish: 3rd (West)

Real Salt Lake

Last Year: 6th (West), 12th (Overall)
Playoffs: Did not qualify

Is this the year that RSL finally get off the bottom of the Western Conference? With an expansion side in San Jose, and having made some potentially significant signings, I think they might just do it! Freddy Adu is of course gone for good. Kenny Deuchar, brought in from Gretna in Scotland, could form a formidable strike partner with Robbie Findlay. Add in the hard-nosed Dema Kovalenko in the midfield and RSL have some more to build upon. Acquired last season, Kyle Beckerman will remain the main man for Salt Lake. With a new stadium under construction, Real Salt Lake can at least say they are headed in the right direction.

Predicted Finish: 6th (West)

San Jose Earthquakes

Last Year: N/A
Playoffs: N/A

Rejoining MLS this year is the San Jose Earthquakes, coached by Frank Yallop. The Quakes have a proven goalkeeper in Joe Cannon as well as reliable players such as Ryan Cochrane, Ronnie O'Brien and Nick Garcia. The club had a very impressive showing at the Carolina Challenge Cup, winning the tournament and beating fellow MLS sides Toronto FC (1-0) and the New York Red Bulls (3-0). Unfortunately for San Jose, they are lacking depth - badly. If one player on this team goes down, the rest will seemingly follow. They may surprise, or they may bomb. My money is on the latter.

Predicted Finish: 7th (West)

Well there you have it. My Western Conference Preview. To recap, I am predicting that in October the standings in the West will look like:

1. Houston Dynamo
2. Chivas USA
3. Los Angeles Galaxy
4. Colorado Rapids
5. FC Dallas
6. Real Salt Lake
7. San Jose Earthquakes

Thanks for reading. I hope to have my Eastern Conference Preview up tomorrow.

CCC: 0-1-2. So what?

We all witnessed another ugly, ugly display of football this evening as we took on the USL's Charleston Battery.

Is this a reason to be concerned? I've read a lot of negativity on the RPB forum towards our guys and I truly believe that we, as supporters, are looking way too much into pre-season matches. A true supporter wants his team to win every match they play - and we do indeed want and expect this. When we don't win we start ripping into the players. None of us have any idea about what is going on behind the scenes. According to Mr. Beirne, Paul Winsper said we shouldn't expect much this week as he is getting the players in shape and having them play on dead legs. Interpret this however you want - but given Winsper's experience in fitness training - this might be a useful tactic rather than a blatant attempt by MLSE to cover up for a lack of success on the pitch.

I don't think the alleged "Maybe next year!" motto of MLSE is the case with TFC. I doubt our European coaching staff would accept this because in Europe the football isn't about money - it's about the success of your club. In basketball and hockey, if your team isn't doing well you don't go to games. Support in football is 100% different. Would a true Derby County supporter talk about his team being crap, skip the home matches, and be second guessing the support for his club - simply because they are last in the Premiership? Not at all.

Why are we getting on our players' backs when the middle of the field was being controlled by a 19 year old who will get very little playing time, and Kevin Harmse (who will be on the bench behind Edu and Robbo next Saturday)? Even Collin Samuel and Todd Dunivant were at centre midfield in this game! Unless you are expecting it to be like against Columbus next Saturday - don't be too upset.

Let's look at Charleston's two goals from the game. Our two most experienced defenders were brutal on both of them. Marshall should have covered better on the first while Brennan was completely flat-footed on the second. Imagine, on the second goal, it had been a trialist who was caught flat-footed. We would have been calling for his head.

Why don't we focus on the positives from this game? For example, Kevin Gall. He was strong on the ball and made wise decisions with it. I saw numerous occasions where he made smart plays to Samuel or Cunningham who were not reading the play. He impressed me this game more than Brittain has all week. His run at the end of the game - though it amounted to nothing - shows he has confidence in his touch and his speed. He had nowhere else to go with the ball, so rather than just hit it back to a defender he turned and attacked. As well, why aren't we talking about Dichio's immediate presence in the match as soon as he came in? He nearly scored with his first touch of the match.

How much do pre-season results mean? Click here to look at MLB's spring training standings. Notice the top team in the AL? The Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Notice the bottom team in the AL? The Boston Red Sox. I'm willing to bet anyone that the Red Sox will finish ahead of the Devil Rays. But do the pre-season statistics show this? Not at all.

The Quakes won the tournament - and have just scored in the first minute against New York. Click here to look at their current roster. Yes, this team has some good players. They have a proven goalkeeper and an excellent right midfielder. They do have an okay starting eleven. If one player on this team goes down though, they are as screwed as we were last year.

I was sky high last year when we beat the Red Bulls at this tournament. The first month of the season brought us all back down to earth.

The lack of success at this tournament does not mean we are going to be a joke next week against Columbus. Do I want TFC to win every game - pre-season, friendly, regular season? Absolutely. We all do. That's why we are all so pissed off when it doesn't happen. Not winning a pre-season game does NOT mean we are screwed.

One more thing to add: we were without Carl Robinson, Marvell Wynne, and Maurice Edu. Three starters who generally contribute a lot to the team. Robbo has been unimpressive this tournament - but do we really see this carrying into the season? I don't. Though some are still not sold on him.

Anyways, I hope we sign Brittain to fill that hole on the right and I hope Kevin Gall comes our way as well to add some depth and competition up front. For me, he was very impressive tonight. Keep in mind some news that might come up regarding Amado Guevara as well...

Eight days until First Kick

As I sit here, listening to "When I'm Sixty-Four" by the Beatles, I am asking myself, "Will we have signed some players we need when I'm sixty-four?

Apparently the Colombian experiment turned out to be a bad one, compared to the hype it received.

One player who's being given a serious look is Martin Brittain. The former Newcastle prospect has played in both of our games in Charleston this week. He hasn't been overly impressive, but no one really has been. I'm not sure he's got the attacking flare O'Brien has, but, quite frankly, we need to fill that hole so I would not complain if we signed him.


Carlisle United striker Kevin Gall has been brought over from England for a trial. I hope to see him Saturday against the Battery. Carlisle is a League One team over in the UK, however I will not be judging this guy's play until I see him. I recall Norwich fans basically thanking us for "taking" Carl Robinson from them, and he turned out to be our Co-MVP last season. You never know - Gall could single-handedly be the answer to our scoring woes from last season. That said, I was hoping Mina Polo would be the one who fills a void on the wing while Pacheco would be that long sought after attacking midfield.

Speaking of this attacking midfielder, I emailed Ives Galarcep and asked him if any progress has been made since his original story with regards to us signing Amado Guevara and he said, "It is NOT a long shot and his sources believe it WILL get done." I'm betting his source isn't Guevara himself, but hopefully it is someone on the inside of things in MLS. Ives' original story stated that Guevara could be here for the season opener, so I guess we have 8 days to wait for reports to surface.

That is all for now. Have a good long weekend and a Happy Easter!

Incoming: Amado Guevara?

I sleep through class one day and I wake up at noon to find a 6 page thread on the Red Patch Boy's forum reporting that Ives Galarcep is saying Honduran playmaker Amado Guevara could be with us in time for our season opener on the 29th. Click here to read Ives' article on ESPN Soccernet - and, for the record - Ives is a VERY reliable source.

Image courtesy of Daylife

Who is Amado Guevara? According to Chivas USA last year, he was worth their Designated Player spot, though things didn't work out for him and the Goats. In 103 appearances for the Red Bulls/Metro Stars, however, he scored 32 goals (0.31 goals per game), winning league MVP honours in 2004. The much-coveted Dwayne DeRosario has scored 44 goals in 162 appearances (0.27 goals per game) for the Earthquakes and the Dynamo. In New York, Guevara registered 36 assists in his 103 games (0.35 assists per game), while DeRo has registered 40 in 162 games (0.25 assists per game).

With playing more games the goals per game average is bound to go down - but does this show that Guevara is as effective as DeRo. Quite simply, yes.

Mo Johnston and John Carver: Do everything in your power to get this guy here.

If you read my thoughts on our game against the Earthquakes you will remember I rated Pacheco's play quite highly in the dismal performance. I told Mo to do the same thing - get him here. However, we had no other potential "No. 10". Choosing between Amado Guevara and Victor Pacheco is no question. Amado Guevara.

Since I've begun this post, Ive's has reported TFC might be planning on using a 4-5-1 formation. This would allow Guevara to slide right into the team in front of Robbo and Edu and behind Dichio. Assuming this happens, look for a trade involving Jeff Cunningham for another winger. Looking at who is with the team now and who is "close to signing", we might look something like this at Crew Stadium (BMO 2) on the 29th:

---------------------------Greg Sutton----------------------------
Marvell Wynne---Julius James---Tyrone Marshall---Jim Brennan
---------------Maurice Edu------------Carl Robinson--------------
Mina Polo---------------Amado Guevara----------Todd Dunivant
---------------------------Danny Dichio---------------------------

Now, can you imagine if we sign Kiki Musampa? I, for one, am feeling very optimistic today.

Of all our potential signings - Guevara is the most significant - for me, ahead of Kiki Musampa. It will be VERY interesting to see how things progress with Guevara in the coming weeks.

For those of you who are unconvinced, watch this:

Are we safe in Sutton's hands?

Last year our goalkeeping dilemma was no secret to any of us or anyone around the league. We had a number 1 - Greg Sutton, the starting goalie for the Canadian national team. While playing at the Gold Cup, Sutton was injured and suffered from post-concussion syndrome for the rest of the season. After stumbling through a few young guys for a few weeks we managed to bring in Kenny Stamatopoulos, another Canadian international, on loan from Tromso in Norway.

So, now a winter has come and gone. Sutton is healthy again and Stamatopoulos is back in Norway. After never really being able to establish himself in MLS I must ask myself: Is Greg Sutton right man in goal for TFC? Here is my response:

Last season in 8 games he posted a 2-5-1 record, during which time he allowed 15 goals, while making 36 saves. This makes his save percentage roughly 70%. Compare that to Pat Onstad. In 27 games he was 13-8-6, allowing 22 goals and making 85 saves. This equals a save percentage of 79%. Last year, in the 30 games, we allowed a league-high 49 goals while Houston allowed a league-low 23.

Included in the 8 games Sutton played last year are a 3-0 loss in Kansas City and a 4-0 loss in New England - our second and third games in club history. If you take those two games out of Sutton's 8, his record is 2-3-1, allowing 8 goals and making 26 saves, while his save percentage improves to 77%.

I chose to take out these two losses from Sutton's record simply because our defense hung him out to dry on every goal. You guys all remember those dreadful first three away games. He didn't lose the games for us - we did, as a whole.

One last statistic: 2007 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, Brad Guzan, made 87 saves while allowing 25 goals. His save percentage for the season equals 78% on the team that won the Western Conference.

So, to draw a conclusion, Greg Sutton hasn't yet been able to make his mark on the league. However, in the brief time we have seen him play, he has posted numbers within reasonable range of the keepers on the best teams in the league. I believe Sutton is the right man for us in goal and the 2008 season will allow him to cement his place as one of Major League Soccer's elite.

Carolina Challeng Cup - Toronto FC 0 - 1 San Jose Earthquakes

A terrible match. Not only by Toronto FC, but by the Quakes as well. The second half was long ball back and forth and was absolutely dreadful to watch.

TFC began the match with Sutton, Velez, Marshall, James, Brennan, Brittain, Robinson, Pacheco, Dunnivant, Dichio, and Cunningham. At half time Samuel came in for Dichio and Harmse was in for Pacheco.

No Pozniak today for San Jose. Ronnie O'Brien did play on the right wing and played provider off of a corner kick for the goal. Aside from that, he wasn't noticeably great.

I'm not entirely sure John Carver took this game too seriously judging by the half time substitutions. Down 1-0 at the half from a terrible goal, subbing off our best forward as well as putting on a defensive midfielder for an attacking midfielder aren't exactly "attacking" tactics.

Cunningham looked unmotivated and slow. This may have been because of his lack of service though. Julius James looked solid on defense, more so than Tyrone Marshall. Velez is no Marvell Wynne at right back, however he did a good job and would be an excellent addition to the team for some depth. This was the worst I've seen Robbo play with us - and he was my favourite player from last season - so I'm not too impressed with what he showed. Dunnivant and Brennan looked okay on the left side. I was wondering why Dunnivant was at LM instead of LB and vice versa with Jimmy. Martin Brittain (Reed pronounced his name Brit-ayne) didn't see enough of the ball for me. When he did get the ball, he seemed to move towards making a run at a defender and turn back. He didn't impress me. Collin Samuel looked energetic when he came on at half time and was far more impressive than Cunningham. Kevin Harmse rarely saw the ball however made no real noticeable mistakes when it came his way. Sutton looked comfortable and made a pretty nice save off of a breakaway. There was nothing he could do on the goal - it was caused by lackluster defending.

What about Pacheco? For me, he was the best player on the field for us. From what I can remember, he didn't lose possession for us once, and he won 2 or 3 free kicks. In my opinion, he should have claimed some of those kicks from Robbo, especially one from about 25 yards from goal. I have a feeling Mo and Carver have made up their minds on this guy, as he was taken off at half time along with Dichio - someone who will certainly be here on the 29th.

Any positives? Last year we beat the Red Bulls in this tournament and they made the playoffs. This shows how bad this result seems. However, I think we need to get Pacheco's signature from pen to paper. We can use this guy - he looked very positive tonight.

A fellow RPB on the forum said that it is so good to see our guys playing again, yet it hurt at the same time. I couldn't agree more. It was great to see them play, but the game was so bad it hurt.

The game of course is not yet over, it is at 76:16 and there is a cancellation due to lightning. If it does continue and we can conjure up an equalizer, it will make this game a little bit better. Just a little bit.

Hopefully we can play something that looks like "football" on Wednesday.

Victor Danilo Pacheco to Toronto FC

Straight from the Chico FC website, and, care of freetranslation.com, in English:

Due to the unsustainable economic situation and to the refusal of the Government of Boyacá to continue with the sponsorship for the season 2008, this Tuesday was known that the talented one Víctor Danilo Pacheco will be going to continue its career in the Toronto F.C, of the MLS of the soccer of the United States

Already they began to feel the consequences of the refusal of the Government of Boyacá to continue with the sponsorship for the B. Chicó in the present season, as want that has begun the rush when only they go played seven dates of the Cup Mustang I.

And the fact is that this Tuesday was known that the talented steering wheel Víctor Danilo Pacheco decided to accept a proposal arrival since the Toronto F.C, of the first division of the soccer U.S. with the one that will continue its extensive professional career.

The player atlanticense, who had arrived pleasant to the institution after closing an agreement with the leaders in the past month of January, goes itself by the unsustainable economic situation that has been generated in the last few weeks.

It fits to indicate that Chicó and its leaders did for this 2008 an important contracting of top-level footballers with the objective to obtain the better results.

It would appear as if we have signed Victor Danilo Pacheco as our "No. 10". Hopefully, if this is true, it pays off. Mo has been looking for that special player to command our attack for some time now and I don't think he'd sign just anyone to play this position.

It seemed, just a few days ago, that Mo was going with the European approach - and he may still be, but hopefully Pacheco, and his Colombian buddy, Mina Polo, can provide some flare an excitement if they sign.

The success of Central and South Americans in MLS is no secret. Here is a look at some of the league's best players from these areas, where they are from, their position, and their statistics:

Christian Gomez (COL): Argentina, Centre Midfield, 97 games played, 39 goals scored
Jaime Moreno (DC): Bolivia, Forward, 270 games played, 112 goals scored
Luciano Emilio (DC): Brazil, Forward, 29 games played, 20 goals
Guillermo Barros Schelotto (CLB): Argentina, Centre Midfield, 22 games played, 5 goals
Juan Pablo Angel (NYRB): Colombia, Forward, 24 games played, 19 goals
Juan Toja (FCD): Colombia, Left Midfield, 27 games played, 6 goals
Carlos Ruiz (LA): Guatemala, Forward, 140 games played, 81 goals.

I think you guys get the point already. The forwards are all scoring lots, and the midfielders are contributing offensively as well.

Do you think Pacheco would be a major part of the answer to our offensive woes?

Are we getting a Colombian invasion?

Rumor has it two Colombians could be on their way to TFC. Victor Danilo Pacheco, shown on the left, is an attacking midfielder. Look at the picture, he's even No. 10! Not one for the ladies, but if he can perform I'll take him. The other player is Leonardo Mina Polo, another attacker. There is very limited information about these two. Being discussed here on the RPB Forum, it would appear as if GolTV is reporting that Pacheco has accepted a deal with us. Hopefully some confirmations surface shortly. With regards to Polo, this statement was found on a South American Football website:

El experimentado delantero vallecaucano, Leonardo Mina Polo, quien estaba siendo esperado en Deportivo Pereira, viajará este miércoles para unirse a su nuevo club, Toronto F.C.

El delantero, que se unirá a su compatriota colombiano, Víctor Danilo Pacheco, en el equipo canadiense, debutó profesionalmente en 1999 con Palmira F.C. y luego pasó a Deportivo Cali, donde estuvo hasta el 2002.

I went to freetranslation.com to see what it would say and here it is:

The experienced forward one vallecaucano, Leonardo Mines Pole, who was being expected in Sports Pereira, will travel this Wednesday to be join with its new club, Toronto F.C.

The forward one, that will join with its Colombian countryman, Víctor Danilo Pacheco, in the Canadian team, debuted professionally in 1999 with Palmira F.C. and then passed to Sports Cali, where was to the 2002.

It's nice to see both Polo and Pacheco's named mentioned with our club. The next few days should be very interesting as these stories progress. I do remember reading in Kristian Jack's blog on thescore.ca that 2 South Americans were coming for the Carolina Challenge Cup.

How patient is too patient?

Image courtesy of Daylife

At this point in time a lot of supporters are doubting, and myself - though disheartened, for some reason I believe something is coming. How patient is too patient?

The biggest transaction we've done this off-season is trade arguable our best player - Ronnie O'Brien. What we got in return could be considered a bargain - if it is used correctly. Mo talked about getting a couple of forwards and a "No. 10". We have 16 days before the season opener in Columbus. Last year we opened up with a bunch of guys who had never played a competitive match together. This was inevitable. We were an expansion team. So, what about year two? It seems like we'll be starting with: 1. A squad similar to last year, with potential on the field however no depth whatsoever, or 2. A squad with a bunch of new signings who have been with the team for only 2 or 3 weeks, potentially lacking chemistry.

Why else am I worried? We brought in John Carver (not the pilgrim) to take care of the coaching duties. The "football" aspect. In Mo's new position, isn't bringing in talent part of the job? Not to rush to conclusions, but if I don't do my job, my boss will fire me. No, this is NOT a "Fire Mo" cry, I simply think Mo has got some work on his hands if he is to keep the support of TFC fans. As a supporter, no matter what happens I will be here for the team. However, I have the right to expect success after so much was promised at the end of last season.

I do see reasons for optimism, however. Last year, after our 0-4 start and some trades, we went 5-3-2 with our best eleven. After that point in the season, Dichio, Cunningham, Wynne and O'Brien went down. If we can stay healthy we can compete. The idea is, though, to be able to bring in a player at any time in the match to play in any position on the field and improve our chances of winning. Last year we couldn't do that, and if the season began today, we wouldn't be able to do it.

In other news, it appears the MLS All-Stars will play against West Ham United. I don't want to insult Hammers fans, but - MLS, really, is this the best you could do? Here is my logic. Last year TFC played Aston Villa in a friendly. They currently sit 6th in the Premier League. Why, then, are the All-Stars of the league going to play a team currently 10th? After playing Chelsea and Celtic, this is quite the let down.

Finally, though, we have some positive news. CBC will be providing live streams of our games at the Charleston Challenge Cup. What's more? Our main man Nigel Reid will provide the commentary. Now, doesn't that make the fact we have signed NO ONE just so unimportant? Not at all. Nonetheless, we will all enjoy watching our boys in some pre season action.

To conclude, part of me still says that Mo has been working on some things behind the scenes and we will get a pleasant surprise during or after the Charlston tournament. However, if this is not the case, I think Mo will have some explaining to do.

What's REALLY up MoJo's sleeve?

Image courtesy of CBC

Kristian Jack from the Score reported in his blog today that Musampa is off of TFC's radar. If you scroll down you'll read that I basically had myself convinced we'd be getting Kiki - and I still think so. It's 7:30 on Tuesday evening and here is what I think will happen tomorrow:

We will introduce Kevin Harmse and the draft picks as members of Toronto FC. We will announce the signings of Kiki Musampa and Martin Brittain.

Now we have to ask: what is really going on here Mo? I expect some questions to be answered tomorrow, because we have not cleared up all that cap space to let the money sit there.

LA who?

Image courtesy of Daylife

I was just watching highlights of the Galaxy's Asia tour - and being TFC fans, you don't really care. Here's something you will care about: Why the Galaxy? The answer is simple, and obvious. David Beckham. Here's my issue with, frankly, how simply stupid this is. Don't get me wrong - I love that international players are looking at MLS and taking the league seriously. The fact that Becks came here is huge for us as footy fans and for the league in itself. Here's my issue: You put it on paper Lalas, now put it on the field! Houston, the league champs, just played in a tournament at a high school field. At the same time, the Galaxy - who haven't made the playoffs for two seasons running - are parading around Asia as if they are the Man United of MLS.

MLS has to take some risks and Alexei Lalas has done relatively (I use that word loosely) well at thinking outside the box in building his Galaxy team. My issue is that even though having David Beckham, Abel Xavier, and Landon Donovan (seriously - click that link) on your team looks good on paper in MLS, it doesn't matter if you can't do it on the pitch.

If MLS teams can do world tours and attract fans then all the power to them - however, before this happens, you might want to make it work in MLS before taking your team to play outside of North America.

So, Mr. Lalas, get your team working like a football team before you parade them around the world. A nice track suit and pretty face won't do it these days.

TFC Training Notes

Image courtesy of Daylife

The Texas Pro Soccer Festival wrapped up a busy week down in San Antonio on Sunday. TFC finished the tournament 1-0-2, beating Chivas USA 3-2 in the final match with the help of a Jeff Cunningham brace. Click the following links to read match reports from each game: v. Houston, v. DC United, v. Chivas USA. The Dynamo were eventually crowned the tournament "champions." Is this anything to look into? Of course not. Part of the core of our team was missing - Wynne / Edu / Robinson - and we had, as mentioned in a previous post, 5 or 6 trialists on board. Neither Johnston or Carver have said anything publicly about the guys on trial, however we do know that the "significant signing" will be announced on Wednesday.

The remaining question is who will it be? I've been hoping all along it will be Kiki Musampa and I'd be willing to bet it is him. The club may also choose this press conference to announce the signings of Kevin Harmse and the draft picks.

So then, what about the other trialists? Current Walsall player and former Newcastle prospect Martin Brittain has to be in the back of our minds. I've never seen the guy play however if the game were played on paper I would sign him for two reasons: 1. We need a right winger to at least partially fill O'Brien's shoes, and 2. Add some more depth.

As well, the former French international Tony Vairelles - not named after the famous palace - has stayed on my radar. I don't see this guy as the answer to our goal scoring woes from last season, however his veteran experience could really come in handy if Dichio or Cunningham go down injured again. Last year it fell on a 20 year old kid from North York (being Lombardo) when those two went down. I would trust Verailles in this situation - not only to fill the void - but to provide leadership as a mentor to Lombardo.

Now before I finish this post, I'd like to give my two cents on Collin Samuel. Mo Johnston said to him at the end of last season to shave 12 pounds or not even bother showing up for training - and he lost the weight. I expect this guy to have a good season as he can really play some good football. One of the reasons Mo signed him last year was because of his versatility - he took Welshy's position at left midfield immediately. If we sign Musampa, he would likely go on the right wing with Jim Brennan playing left wing. As well it looks as if Dichio and Cunningham will be our top 2 forwards again this year. Can we look for Collin Samuel to push any of those guys for a starting position? I think a few of you may be skeptical and question my sanity - but I think he can do it. He is strong on the ball and not afraid to run at defenders. I can see him pushing Cunningham to be Dichio's strike partner up front quite easily. I believe that no matter where he plays this year Collin Samuel will be effective.

To finish off, I'd like to put a little hope in your eyes. Let's be optimistic, and say within the next 3 weeks we sign Brittain, Musampa, and Vairelles. How might our starting eleven look?

GK: Greg Sutton
RB: Marvell Wynne
CB: Julius James
CB: Tyrone Marshall
LB: Todd Dunnivant
RM: Kiki Musampa
CM: Carl Robinson
CM: Maurice Edu
LM: Jim Brennan
FW: Jeff Cunningham
FW: Danny Dichio

Add in Brittain, Vairelles, Samuel, Boyens, Phelan and Edwards on the bench, I'd say we're looking better in our starting 11 and depth-wise than we were at any point of last season.

Thanks for reading guys. Cheers!

Forrest: Significant signing within 48 hours

For those of you who watched Soccer Central today, you may have heard Craig Forrest slip in a comment stating that we can expect to see a significant signing within 48 hours. What exactly does significant mean? We'll leave that up to you to decide.

The expected signing is Dutch international Kiki Musampa. Musampa was on trial a few weeks ago and a deal for him seemed dead until he showed up with the squad in San Antonio for the Texas Pro Soccer Festival.

Are there any other possibilities? For sure. Sunderland winger and 22 year old Ross Wallace has been rumoured lately to be coming over here. As well, Tony Verailles, a former French international is in camp in San Antonio right now as well.

As stated by Gerry Dobson, The new players in camp this week are:

1. Kiki Musampa - Dutch
   
2. Tony Vairelles - French
   
3. Robbie Gaspar - Australian
4. Dean McDonald - Scottish
5. Martin Brittain - English
6. Jamie Watson - American

It seems as if only time will tell, but it seems Monday cannot come soon enough - and THAT, my friends, is a first.

Welcome Fellow Supporters

With the MLS Season opener three weeks from now, I'd like to extend a welcome to all of my fellow TFC supporters.

This blog will act as a place to hopefully relay news to and from supporters and allow me to express my opinions on Toronto FC and Major Leaguge Soccer as a whole.

To start off, my name is Ben. I am a season ticket holder - come find me at BMO Field in section 109. I've been a Toronto FC supporter since day one and have been following international football for over a decade.

After TFC's opening season we will be looking for as much success on the field as we supporters bring off the field.

Thank you for checking this out! All for One!