I'm Literally Salivating!!!

I can't wait. I'm literally drooling (its currently sliding down my chin and dripping onto my t-shirt)..ok maybe that went a bit far, but I am stoked about tonight's game, in what is currently, the best rivalry in world soccer.

USA vs Mexico!!!

Now, this rivalry certainly isn't the best rivalry in soccer history, but can you name a world rivalry with as much pride and passion on the line at the moment? Sure there's Germany v England, Brazil v Argentina etc but to be honest those have been rather subdued affairs in recent times.

But USA vs Mexico is at the peak of its intensity. The US has been absolutely dominant in recent years, with the recurring scoreline of 2-0 serving as heartbreak to Mexico fans. Mexico is definitely up for this match, which will kick off the Hex (last round of qualifying in the Concacaf region consisting of 6 teams). What a way to kick off!

Mexican fans and press are desperate for a win against the northern 'gringos.' They've even resorted to voodoo, as headlines have been made in recent days with Blockbuster sponsoring voodoo dolls of American players to Mexican patrons. But can I quickly diverge into a topic that really grinds my gears.

Immigration is a hot topic among Americans and it crosses divides from the political to the athletic. There certainly is a story to be had with the players themselves as they choose side (see Juan 'Paco' Torres of Pachuca who will represent the red, white, and blue tonight). My beef is more with the fans and being in Texas, currently I run into this all the time.

Plain and simple, if you were born in the US and have lived the majority of your life in the US, feeding off of its benefits and training and playing with American clubs; you need to be supporting the US tonight!!!! You're American and as much as I can appreciate heritage and culture, its just that heritage and culture. You're an American citizen, support your country!!

Now this doesn't apply to all American citizens. Mexicans who were born and raised in their homeland and later relocated to the US to become citizens can support who they like. I can completely sympathize with this situation. But those that are born and raised in the US, despite heritage, should support the US...period!

Ok, done with my rant for the day. The US should take this game. Mexico has not been playing well under the Swede Sven Ericksson. In fact, they've been down right poor and squeaked into this final round. They're also down several players and will be relying on several who will be earning their first caps.

The US, on the other hand, is playing at home in Columbus with a squad that cruised through the last qualifying round and with the exception of Cherundolo, is completely healthy. No excuses guys for them this round. Anything less than another resounding 2-0 win is unacceptable!!!!

Rating Wynne's Performance

I was going to do a team analysis, but decided to focus purely on one player...Marvel Wynne.

Plenty has been written elsewhere, analyzing the team's performance, and yet no one seems to agree on just how well Marvel Wynne actually played.

Let me preface this post, however, by explaining how I critique players. There are two ways to make an evaluation. The first, and the one most people tend to use because in general they lack soccer knowledge or lack the ability to trule "scout," is rating a player purely based on the level of play of the other team. The second, and much more effective way, is analyzing how a player's performance translates to a higher level.

With that being said, I'd have to say that everyone who is giving Wynne very high marks is using the first method. He certainly did not play badly, and I'm giving him an average score of 5 out of 10. Why? Well let's get into that.

I'll start with the good. Suprisingly, and pleasantly at that, he was relatively efficient on the ball. He had very few turnovers and his crossing, while not Beckhamesque, was much improved. He did very well to attack out of the back on a few occasions, one of which earned the US a penalty in the first half. On the defensive side of the ball, no one was even close to getting the better of him in 1 v 1 situations. His athleticism reigned supreme in all encounters.

Now with the bad, and it can be summed up with one word....naive. He is incredibly naive when it comes to his defensive positioning. Countless times, I noticed him in absolutley awful starting positions, much of the time being way to advanced on the field of play. And if it weren't for his incredibly athleticism and Sweden's rather poor performance we would have been punished more because of it.

And he was for Sweden's opening goal. His starting position was far, far to central leaving him no time to get out to the wing to close the winger down. Instead he gets half way there, making himself even more useless on the play because he can no longer defend the cross in the box. The general rule is if you can get out the quick enough to put pressure on the ball then go. If not, hold your ground to defend the cross, and if the cross come then you can make your way, tentatively, out to pressure. This was simply one occasion amongst many that a better team would certainly punish us for.

In the end, Wynne at this moment in time is much more an amazing athlete than a soccer player. He doesn't look the part when he has the ball (I'm not sure I've seen a more uncomfortable looking style) and as of yet, he doesn't have it upstairs.

Now, I certainly think he has the potential to be a mainstay at right back for the US once Cherundolo's time is done. If he can continue to develop in Toronto, and perhaps get himself to Europe (specifically Holland) then I think that potential can be realized. Unfortunately, at this moment, his liability outweighs his potential.

US Starting XI

Only 1 surprise for me and that is Ching gets the nod over Cooper. I'm definitely disappointed and completely disagree. Ching is a fairly established player as far as the national team is concerned and I don't see Bradley learning anything about him from tonight's match. Cooper, on the other hand, is a relatively new commodity and tonight's game would be an excellent chance for Bradley to see how Cooper fits in the picture with a start.

Here's the rest of the line-up

---------------Perkins---------------------

Wynne----Califf----Parkhurst---Bornstein

Thorrington--Kljestan--Clard---Rogers

----------Davies-----Ching---------------

Preview- US vs Sweden

Tonight, we'll get a look at some of the US fringe players as they take on a largely home-based Swedish side void of the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrick Larsson (pulled out earlier in the camp). The US side has been in camp together for nearly a month as Bob Bradley puts the players through their paces at what has become a regular January camp.

The 2 sides met around the same point last season, with largely B squads as will be the case again tonight, with the US came out 2-0 victors. I'd imagine the game tonight should be evenly contested and entertaining as both sides have players eager to show they can play at this level.

There are definitely a few players on the US side that I'll be interested to see tonight. Charlie Davies for one should definitely enjoy the occasion as he takes on many of the players he sees every weekend for his club Hammarby in the Swedish Allsvenskan. The speedy striker had a fantastic year with his club, scoring 14 goals along with 3 assists over the course of the past year.

Another player that will be eager to impress is Kenny Cooper, whom some have been clamoring for his involvement in that national side for some time. A very technical player who often likes to pull out wide to pick up the ball, will be asked to play a different role with the national side, and play more a style that goes with his impressive physique.

The main questions, however, will come from the back. The squad has been riddled with injuries to the backline since camp began. Danny Califf and Michael Parkhurst (both ply their club trades in Denmark) are expected to be the center back pairing with Jonathan Bornstein, who appears to have shaken off a bruised foot, to man the left back spot and Marvel Wynne manning the right.

Wynne to me is especially intriguing. His athletic abilities are certainly what has gotten him an invite to the national squad, but questions remain over his technical abilities. In the Olympics, he had a very solid showing, constantly marauding into the attacking half; however, he hasn't always replicated that form for his club side. I'm still not convinced of his quality and will be interested to see how he performs.

Check back later for the official starting line-up and post-game analysis!

And We're Back!

Ok, I know this is long overdue. Well perhaps more than long. I realize its been over a year since I last posted and a lot has happened since then.

For those, that haven't been able to keep up with what I have been doing, 2008 has been pretty interesting. Like any year, I had my highs and lows. I began the year by hopping on a plane back to Europe to meet up with a buddy of mine from college who was playing in the Dutch Eredivisie for Sparta Rotterdam.

I spent a good month in Holland (where I was lucky enough to take in several matches and meet Edgar Davids) hoping to land a trial and eventually a contract somewhere in central Europe. In the meantime, I was training with a Dutch 4th division team to stay in shape. I had a few bites from Dutch 2nd division teams, but the minimum wage for non-EU players pretty much nipped that in the butt fairly quickly.

With the help of some other contacts, I was hoping to land something in Germany, and thought I had found a place to play in Oberliga side FC Gutersloh and then later with Bonner SC. In the end, neither club could afford to take on a foreign player and so I headed back across the pond to the US with my morale struggling.

I ended up signing with the Wilmington Hammerheads in USL2 after contract negotiations with the Rochester Rhinos fell through with the firing of head coach, Laurie Calloway. There's definitely worse places to live than Wilmington, NC- 2 miles from the beach. From that perspective, it was great. Wilmington was had a nice local beach feel with a great female:male ratio. And the guys on my team were some of the best guys I've ever met. It definitely made for a fun filled summer.

On the playing field, things were up and down. Results never seemed to go our way and we ended the season disappointed, missing out on the play-offs by a single point. Following the season, I was invited to train and play with DC United's reserve squad for 2 matches and then headed south to train with USL1, Atlanta Silverbacks.

By this time, it was past the USL1 signing deadline, so this was more of a good way to keep in shape and possibly get looked at for next season. In my opinion, things went great and it was very unfortunate for Atlanta and myself that the Silverbacks have decided to go on hiatus for 2009.

After 2 weeks, I headed home (i.e. where my parents live) to San Antonio, stopping in Houston to play a match with the Dynamo reserves. A week later, I made the trip up to Dallas where I flew with the reserve team to Colorado to take no the Rapids. And I finished my season playing in 3 more reserve games for the Dynamo, helping them to the MLS reserve league championship (the last 1 as it turned out as the MLS has scrapped the reserve league for this next season).

So now, I'm back in San Antonio keeping in shape by playing for Alamo SC- a semi-pro indoor soccer team here in town. If you're wondering, we're currently 4-0 with a +44 goal differential in PASL-Premier. We've got a very talented team with several of us having played/playing soccer professionally.

In the meantime, with the help of my agent Justin Stone, I am now in search of a new club for the new year. Stay tuned to find out where, I end up!

Preview- RoPS vs JIPPO

I am definitely excited for this match. I've looked forward to it ever since I left RoPS. Not that I want to hurt my old club, its merely an opportunity to prove to myself and to RoPS that I was good enough to play more for them. Unfortunately, things didn't go as well as I would have liked up there, but I hold no ill-will towards them. But I think every player looks forward to playing their old team.

Both teams have quite a bit riding on the game. RoPS has let their lead at the top of the table slip to just 4 points and a loss tomorrow could prove devastating (hence my dilemma- of course I want nothing more then to win but I also want RoPS to win the championship). JIPPO meanwhile are fighting to stave off relegation. Currently we hold a 2 point lead over GBK and a win for us could really put us into safety. GBK take on KuPS in Kuopio, and I'd have to think that KuPS wins that one.

As for the team news, RoPS welcomes back Drogba from suspension, but loses Antii Peura. Other then that, I believe they have the rest of the squad available. Taking care of Drogba will definitely be a handful for our backline, and we can't allow any slip ups like we did against PP-70 last week. Then of course you have RoPS midfield which is stacked with talent.

JIPPO will lose Mikko Maatanen and Tero Tahvanainen to suspension, but will welcome back Mikko Ikkonen. It remains to be seen who will start in goal, but I would have to think Lassi Hurskainen would keep his place after his last 2 performances. I should keep my place at right midfield, and hopefully I can extend my scoring run to 3 games.

It must be said that JIPPO have been in better form the last 3 games. We've taken all 3 points in our last 3 (TPV, PK-35, and PP-70) while RoPS have been held to two 0-0 draws in their last 2 games. Their lack of scoring will be definitely be welcome, but they haven't conceded more then 1 goal since a 2-2 draw against PK-35 over a month ago.

So that's all the team news i can think of. I'll leave predictions up to you guys.

Jippo 2 PP-70 1

Another 3 points headed our way this weekend. I can't tell you how immense these points were for us. We now have a 2 point cushion from relegation and at the same time severely dented PP-70's chances of avoiding the drop. It wasn't the prettiest of matches, but I don't think you will hear any complaints from us.

The first half was especially unpleasing to the eye. There were times when I wondered if we were playing ping pong rather then football. Neither team was good with the ball, and there were few chances. There was 1 clear cut chance, however, and I am still trying to work out how exactly the ball did not end up in the net.

A long clearance managed to bounce over the opposing goalkeeper's head and with no one in the goal everyone must have been thinking that Jussi Kemmo would put Jippo up 1-0. But somehow, when it was hard to miss than to score, Jussi put the ball wide. I have seen misses like this in plenty of bloopers videos, but never in person. But credit to Jussi as he would make amends later in the game.

Other then that chance, there really wasn't much in the half. I had a particularly good half although I did not see the ball as often as I would like. Nevertheless, I felt something positive happened each time I touched it, and I seemed to be running past multiple defenders with the ball with ease. Unfortunately, nothing would come of my good work as the final ball from me or someone else was lacking.

The second half was a much better game. Both teams seemed to have collected themselves and it became much more of a possession game. I would say we were the better side, but we managed to give up a goal at the 55 minute mark. A mix up between our central defenders allowed the ball to bounce in between and over them leaving an easy finish for PP-70 striker Mika Lahtinen (joint top scorer with 16).

The goal seemed to kick start our game though. We attacked with much more purpose, and tied the game at 60 minutes. I'll admit it was a bit of a fluke, but again you won't hear us complain. I collected a ball wide after some good work out of midfield and attempted to put in a cross. However, the cross turned into a inch perfect shot as it saild over the goalkeeper's head and into the top corner of the far post!

We continued to play well, and I continued to have a stellar game. The next 15 minutes we would constantly pressure the opposing goal. I had an opportunity to add a second as a cross was flicked onto the far post. It managed to go over my defenders head and after chasing the ball down I put a shot on goal that beat the goalkeeper, but was unfortunately, cleared off the line by a defender. We had several other opportunities inside the box with Jussi Kemmo, Sasha Antilainen and myself doing the damage, but unfortunately the were all deflected.

On one of these occasions though, I managed to split two defenders inside the box with the 'elastico' move I had pulled off a few weeks back. But my left footed effort was blocked. The game took a turn around the 70 minute mark or so. Our right back, Mikko Maatanen received his marching orders after receiving a second yellow card. I slotted into right back to fill his place, and it must be said that I was a little worried.

But my worries were laid to rest when Jussi Kemmo collected a cross from Tinge and calmly skipped past his mark and deposited the ball into the back of the net less then 5 minutes after the red card. We managed to hold out for the rest of the match almost adding a third after some good work from Sasha gave Tinge with a clear opportunity. Unfortunately, it was smuggled by the goalkeeper. We were under a lot of pressure towards the end, but held off and won 2-1 victors.

I was named the sponsor's man of the match and received the Veikkaus gold medallion. Lassi Hurskainen was named man of the match after a good performance in goal for us. We take on RoPS next, which will definitely be an intense match for me personally. I would love to put one over on them!!

Check out Football in Finland for my Ykkonen Wrap!

Jippo 3 PK-35 1

Three BIG BIG BIG points came our way this afternoon. We left the field 3-1 winners over the traveling Helsinki side and more importantly came away with 3 points that have now moved us out of the relegation zone!!! I also opened my account with Jippo after a great cross from Jan Berg to put us up 2-1.

We certainly didn't start as the brighter of the two sides. In fact, the entire first half was pretty poor from our end even though we scored 3 goals. Passing to our own team was at a premium and put us under a bit of pressure although we came out relatively unscathed.

I have no idea how our first goal was scored. Jussi Kemo got the opener while I was receiving treatment on the side of the field. While running back to get into my defensive position, I mistakenly ran into Etu Sassila of PK-35 with my head crashing into his. Unfortunately for me, my tooth managed to find its way through my lip, leaving a gaping hole.

After some rather crude medicinal work, I re-entered the field with a makeshift band-aid covering my lip. However, the band-aid didn't exactly do anything for the pain. But I soldiered on. PK-35 managed to work themselves back into the match at the 20 minute with Petteri Kaijasilta doing what he does best...scoring.

A few minutes later, I would help restore the lead, however. Jan Berg found some space as a crossed the half way line and put in a great cross. I made a pretty good darting run and met the ball with a slide and deftly placed into the corner of the net. It was a pretty goal I must say, but most of the credit should go to Jan for an immaculate pass.

We were awful in possession and for some reason opted to long balls into the heart of the PK defense. There defenders easily towered over us and won most of the balls. However, despite the lack of possession John Keister managed to give us a two goal cushion heading into half time. After picking up the ball near the half, John noticed PK's defensive line was playing rather high. He made a long touch behind the defense and after rounding the goalkeeper deposited the ball into the back of the net despite the last ditch effort from a PK defender.

The second half was much better on our end. Our passing was much cleaner and we found plenty of space behind the PK line although never managed to take advantage of it. I managed to make several good runs behind the line, but unfortunately the pass was either cut out before reaching me or was too long. We were too slow in recognizing the pass as several others had made some terrific runs behind the line, however, and we really should have managed to put a few more goals in.

Specifically, I missed a glorious chance to put the game away. Sasha Antilainen ran onto a ball into the space on the wing and after out racing his mark played a hard ball centrally to me. With little pressure I managed to put the ball over the goal from six yards out. To be fair though, it was played with quite a bit of pace and bounced just before reaching me. Regardless, though I should have put the ball into the old onion bag.

PK dominated proceedings toward the end of the match, but never truly threatened with the exception of a Peter Louis (fellow American) drive that flashed wide of the goal. Lassi Hurskainen, our goalkeeper, did a terrific job of gathering crosses although his distribution was a bit off (sorry Lassi couldn't make you sound too good!).

In the end, it was a much needed 3 points and a happy day for me despite having to go to the hospital afterwards. I had 3 stitches placed on the inside of my mouth and have a lovely white, butter-fly band-aid across my lip (the band-aid doesn't have a butterfly on it, its a butter-fly band-aid ie helps to pinch together the hole in my lip).

Look forward to my Ykkonen wrap at Football in Finland

US-Brazil Analysis

You guys can check out my US-Brazil post game analysis at American Soccer Daily

Lineups US vs Brazil

Well SBI just put up the lineups for the match tonight. Here they are...

US:
-------------------Dempsey----------------------
Beasley------------Wolff---------------Donovan
------------Feilhaber------Bradley--------------
Pearce-------------------------------Cherundolo
--------------Onyewu---Bocanegra--------------
---------------------Howard----------------------

Brazil:

-----------------Alves------------------------
Robinho-----------Ronaldinho---------Kaka
---------Gilberto Silva------Mineiro---------
Gilberto---------------------------------Maicon
---------------Juan--------Lucio---------------
---------------------Doni------------------------

Generally, I don't like Donovan on the wing, but in this game it might be a brilliant move. The wings will be where Brazil is most vulnerable. Hate that Dempsey is playing as the target striker, and don't like the Wolff addition (his time is done with USMNT, then again who else is there?). But this is probably the best line-up we could put out with the squad available.

Preview- US vs Brazil

If anything this will definitely be an entertaining game for somebody although I doubt it will be the American supporters. Brazil is fielding a full strength side with the likes of Ronaldinho and Kaka pulling the strings. Of course, their starting status is not guaranteed. After opting to skip the Copa America the two have been told they would have to work their way back into the squad by Brazilian coach Dunga.

The US will also be fielding a full strength squad with the likes of Landon Donovan and Damarcus Beasley (does anyone still think we have a chance...kidding, well sort of!). In any case, it will definitely be a firm test for our Nats, and I can't say I'm very confident. We haven't exactly been outstanding in possession in our last few matches, and against a team like Brazil you have to value every chance you touch the ball. And with the lack of a true international caliber striker, things definitely look a little bleak for us.

Timmy Howard will get the nod in goal, and we are in safe hands there. The back four I imagine will be Stevie Cherundolo, Gooch, Los, and the left side is up for grabs. I would be willing to bet that Spector gets the nod their even though we have the natural lefty Heath Pearce in the squad (wait a minute...Bornstein's not in the squad? Is Bob finally over the love affair? No, Bob has done his best to stay away from the MLS teams with important matches). Los and Gooch scare me to be honest. Neither has had a really solid match in a while, and with the attacking prowess of Brazil it could turn into a long night.

The midfield should look something like...Dempsey and DaBeas on the wings with Michael Bradley and Benny Feilhaber in the middle with Landon and EJ up top. Dempsey and DaBeas should cause some problems. But I am worried about the Bradley/Benny combo. Don't get me wrong, the two are tremendously talented but neither is an attacking mid. So we are essentially playing with two defensive midfielders, which will pull down either EJ or Landon (most likely Landon) stranding the other alone up top.

I would rather see Benny with Landon in front of him and then EJ with a Brian Ching. Unfortunately, Ching isn't in the squad and the only other forward available is Josh Wolff (why are we calling this guy in...his time with USMNT is up!!). Landon just isn't a striker and excels when he is allowed a free role behind the front two where he can run out of midfield.

Despite this, we will see chances during this game, and hopefully we can actually finish this game. Brazil's wing backs will push forward at every opportunity which will leave a ton of space for Dempsey and DaBeas to work with. They will be key to our attack and if they can get in some dangerous spots out wide and play a few good crosses then we should be able to get a goal or two. Then its just up to the defense to stop Robinho, Kaka, Ronaldinho, Vagner Love...ok ya so that probably won't happen, but I can always have dreams of repeating that magnificent performance in 1998 (I think 1998) when Preki scores a great goal and Keller has the greatest performance of any goalkeeper in the history of football!!

Prediction- unfortunately I'm going to go with a 3-1 Brazil win.

TPV 0 Jippo 1

Well I can't write too much about the match as I didn't make the trip to Tampere. I was forced to sit out due to yellow card accumulation, and decided to stay back and train on my own rather then make the long trip to Tampere.

From what I have heard, we didn't exactly play that well, but John Keister's first half goal ended up being enough to give us a hard fought win. It appears we were under a bit of pressure towards the close of the match as TPV searched for the equalizer, but obviously we managed to handle the pressure well enough and come home as victors.

The three points is massive for us, and currently we are only 2 points away from being safe from relegation. Of course, we will need results to go our way today if we want it to stay that way. GBK managed to take a win from PK-35 whom we will play next weekend.

In other news, Finland managed to come out of Belgrade with a dull 0-0 tie. One of the other benefits of staying behind yesterday was that I was able to catch the match. Finland from the start were obviously looking for a draw and that's it. Experience over youth seemed to be the preferred option for Roy Hodgeson's selection with Mika Nurmela getting the start out wide.

That selection told me enough about the game before it even begain. A player like Nurmela, who at his age couldn't really offer much more then helping to keep the ball when playing out wide. If he's played more centrally then I could see him having a bigger impact, but out wide he neither has the pace nor the stamina. What resulted was a very dull, uneventful draw from the Finnish side.

In the end, a draw is a good result for them though so I can't fault Roy too much. I think most Finns would have taken a draw in Serbia before the match began, and I assume and hope they will play a more youthful and offensive line-up when they take on Poland Wednesday to grab three points and really put them back in the thick of things. If they can manage to pull that result they may be able to squeeze into Euro 2008.

They Call Me....Ronaldinho

Ok so they really don't call me Ronaldinho, but this past weekend I did my best impression. With a Brazilian defender barreling at me, I sweetly pulled off Ronaldinho's elastico move, sending my defender the wrong way and nearly onto the ground. Those that have played with me more then one time know that I do this trick pretty much every chance I get. Here's a link where you all can watch. It happens at the 3:20 mark. Enjoy...I know I have (about a hundred times!!!)

Jippo 2 TP-47 2

It was a dreary day for my first game in my new jersey. Rain poured down for most of the day making for a slick surface and a not so pretty game. Despite the conditions, we actually started quite well. Tornio were good in possession, but hardly created anything in the early-goings whereas we were quite effective at carving out chances on the counter.

At about the 10 minute mark, after some good build up play, the ball was played out wide to me near the top of the box. I took a good settling touch and then struck a terrific shot only for it to deflect off of a defender before getting to the goal. A few minutes later, Jussi picked up a clearance and drove at this defender. I made a run to the inside of him where Jussi played a great ball in front of me and into the box. I slid, along with the defender, to get an attempt at goal but once again it was deflected for a corner.

However, our first goal would come off of a great counter attack. Kemo picked up a clearance and then found a streaking Jussi. Jussi managed to beat his mark wide and play a great ball back across the box where Kemo finished easily into the side netting. Unfortunately, we kind of lost the plot a bit after the goal. We seemed merely content in kicking the ball away as if we were in the 90th minute.

Tornio gained more and more possession and were beginning to penetrate. They would score after a poor clearance made it only just outside the box in the center of the park. Tornio's midfielder took a settling touch that bounced high, however, he dealt with it remarkably well and volleyed it into the upper corner. After the goal we seemed to gain a bit of composure, and while we didn't create any clear cut chances we were much more calm on the ball.

The half ended 1-1. The second half was a carbon copy of the first. We started well, effectively countering after winning the ball from Tornio. John Keister, who was brought on in the first half, helped stretch the Tornio defense and effectively held up the ball for us along with his strike partner Kemo.

Again off of a quick counter in which Kemo found himself streaking out wide with the ball, I nearly scored. Kemo played a great ball across the top of the box. I ran onto it and struck it sweetly with the inside of my foot. It was destined for the top right corner, but once again was deflected. A few minutes later, however, we would take the lead again. Jan Berg played in a good corner from the right side where Diego got a good head to the ball. It was initially saved but a pouncing Mikko roofed the ball into the top of the net.

It was 2-1, and at the time I felt sure of victory. But once again, we lost composure and allowed Tornio back into the game. Possession became a rarity for us, and we were made to pay. Unfortunately, I have a bit to do with their tying goal. I picked up the ball wide deep in the opposing half. I had the opportunity to immediately cross the ball, but elected to take on my defender. I did brilliantly pulling off Ronaldinho's 'elastico' to beat my Brazilian mark, but rather then take a left footed shot on goal I tried to play the ball back to a streaking midfielder. It was picked off by a defender though, and Tornio countered towards the other end. The ball made its way deep and wide, and their forward managed to pick out a player of his own color despite the fact that there were 3 defenders to one attacker.

I was immediately disappointed with myself. The move was great, looked pretty, but when you're up a goal you can't afford to give away possession the way I did. Had I put in a cross, it may have been cleared by the defense, but it wouldn't have led to a quick counter. Of course, there were others who are at fault as well, but it started with me and I know better then that. Chances were slim after the tying goal. Tornio continued with most of the possession, and while we got better we didn't really carve out any chances. However, we should have been awarded a penalty at the death of the match after John Keister was pulled back in the box. The ref waved play on and then blew the whistle for the end of the match.

I was pulled off in injury time, and I was very happy with my display. It was my first game with a new team, and I definitely caused some problems for the other team. I felt a bit slow, however, which was largely due to the fact that I had not played a 90 minute game at right wing and a long long long time. But to last as long as I did and to make chances and keep the ball was very pleasing for me. Unfortunately, I picked up my 3rd yellow and will miss out on the next game to suspension. Three points is absolutely necessary if we are to avoid the drop.

Life in Joensuu

Life so far has been pretty good here in Joensuu. I can't say the same for the train ride I took to get here. That may be the worst traveling experience I've had. Hardly, the ideal way to begin my new life in Finland. But I must say that since arriving have I have felt very comfortable.

I'm living with Sasha Antilainen one of the players on the team. He's been great to me so far, and I really appreciate the way he has helped me get settled. I've also spent a lot of time with one of the goalkeepers, Lassi, who I have spent some time getting to know the city with. So far we have seemed to hit it off. Both are atypical Finns. Finns by nature are quite shy, but these two are of a different breed, particularly Lassi (well he's a goali, so what do you expect)!

I have trained twice with the team so far. Obviously, there is a drop in quality from RoPS, but there is definitely some talent here. I've been a bit shocked all season at their lowly place in the standings as from what I have seen they are hardly one of the worse teams in this division. I think they've just been a bit unlucky and have been hit with the injury bug a few times too often. And strangely, they have yet to win at home.

Hopefully, that will change this weekend as we take on TP-47. The coach has told me that he will look to play me at right wing. That's fine with me. I like to attack and crossing is probably one of my better attributes. My only fear will be my game fitness. I've only played 1 90 minute game in the last 2 months so I am not too sure how long I can go at a midfield position. That will just be a matter of games though. Once I get 2 or 3 under my belt, I should not have a problem.

The city itself is actually quite beautiful. When I traveled down here with RoPS earlier in the season I had made the same remark to my teammates. The weather hasn't exactly been cooperating although as I write the sunny is shining and while its not warm it is hardly cold. The local University is also just beginning its semester so that means plenty of lovely Finnish women are strolling around.

So overall, my impressions have been good. I feel welcomed and wanted, which is always good for a player. Let's see if I can help the team stay up this year. My prediction is that we will. I think we have the quality its just a matter of gaining a bit of confidence.

Last Post in Rovaniemi

Once again please forgive me for the lack of posting over the last week. Things on my end have been a little hectic as I prepare for a new adventure. This will officially be my last post in Rovaniemi. But don't worry I will continue posting in my new home...Joensuu.

The team in Joensuu, Jippo, has offered to take me on for the rest of the season. They have been interested in me since they saw me play in the Lahti Cup with Atlantis. It was an incredibly difficult decision for me. I've grown to love Rovaniemi, the team, and the fans. It looks as if RoPS is on its way to a championship as well which I would have loved to be a part of. But sometimes you need to think of what's best for you personally.

At my age, I can't afford to be sitting on the bench. For the sake of my career, I need to get as many games and as many minutes on the field as possible throughout the rest of the season. I can accomplish that at Jippo, and hopefully, bring up my level of play to what I am truly capable of. I thank Karo and Mr. Kiistala for the opportunity to play here and for the opportunity to advance my career elsewhere.

To the RoPS fans, you guys have been brilliant. I cannot say enough about the passion you guys have for the team. The display at Kuopio was truly awe-inspiring. I just wish I could have shown you what I am truly capable of. I never came close to the potential I feel I have as a player, and although there were some factors for this, I won't make any excuses. I failed to perform on the field at a level that I expect of myself and for that I am sorry.

Hopefully, in a few weeks time I can come back and really show you how well I can play. Jippo will be traveling up to Rovaniemi for our return match against RoPS, and although it will be difficult to play against my friends here at RoPS I will be doing everything possible to bring a win home to Joensuu. But I truly wish that RoPS will go on to win the league. The team and the fans deserve it for what has so far been an incredible year. Hopefully, you guys can treat me to one more USA or Born in the USA song as well!!

So its been a great ride while it lasted. Goodluck and goodbye Rovaniemi!!

RoPS 2 PP-70 0

Well it was hardly a pretty game of football, but at the end of the day 3 points is 3 points. Thanks to KuPS draw the day before and JJK's draw, we now sit at the top of the table. Yesterday's match was always going to be a bit of a difficult one with the way PP-70 play. There long balls always kept the defence a bit on our heals, and all they looked to do was hope to pick up the second ball.

We started off the match as well as could be expected. We weren't great in possession, but we weren't bad as well. Drogba did well to earn us a penalty, which Dejan Godar put away with a delicate and cheeky chip. PP-70 hardly posed much of a threat except when we managed to gift them chances. They were fairly effective from free kicks, but did nothing to worry us from the run of play. Nonetheless, they did a good job of disrupting our play and keeping us from every really dropping into second gear.

In the second half, we desperately needed a second goal to kill off the match. Our possession really went out the window, and we were caught dribbling way too often. But I would say defensively we were better, and there wasn't really a moment when I thought we might give up the lead. The victory was made certain when Drogba took off on a counter attack 1 v 1 with the goalie. He managed to round the keeper and slot into an empty net in stoppage time to bring home 3 points, and our 9th victory in 10 matches. Drogba has now scored in 10 straight games!!!!

As for my display, I will take it. It's been nearly 2 months since I have gotten a full 90 at right back so for me or anyone else for that matter to expect me to have a blinder is a bit unrealistic. On the ball, I was a bit more nervous then usual and gave away too many balls. But I was very happy with my defensive display with the exception of the silly tackle I made in the first half. With it being my first 90 in a while though, I was satisfied but not thrilled. It is a good game to build off of, and hopefully Thursday I can put a complete game together. I have yet to really show how well I can play and I will look to do that against Tornio. I'll need to if I want to start on Sunday against KuPS as Janne will be back from suspension. But I've always like competition and his competition is most welcome.

Preview- RoPS vs PP-70

After last weeks disappointing result, the team is itching to make amends. Last week saw us throw away a 2-1 lead with about a minute left to play. It was a disappointing result for more then just 1 reason for me, but we'll just leave it at that. It was a bruising affair for us as three players went down (all injured by the same player), and we lost one to a red card although that wasn't made entirely clear at the time.

Despite the result, we have not lost a match in 8 games and Drogba has continued his scoring streak which now stands at 9 games in a row. PP-70 meanwhile have fell on hard times. Results have not gone their way and they now find themselves in th relegation zone. I think I can speak for the whole team when I say we'd like to put them even farther down the table today.

Drogba sat out training for most of the week, but made his return on Friday and will look to play today. Antti Peura is still dealing with his injury as well and will look to come off the bench i believe, and Janne Turpenniemi is suspended for the next 2 matches. I will get the start in Janne's place at right back, and hopefully, I can play as well if not better then he has. It is definitely unfortunate for Janne as I would have reacted to the challenge in the same manner as he did to get himself sent off. Under the circumstance I think the ref needed to have better judgement about the situation. I am of course thrilled to get the start though, and will look to put on a good performance for everyone.

Hopefully, the weather will cooperate with us today, and give us a nice night to play some football. I'm predicting a 3-1 victory!!

United draw in Openin Rounds

This is my first post on my beloved team Manchester United. I've been a die hard fan for as long as I can remember supporting football. Eric Cantona was the one that drew me in to the world of the Red Devils. There's only one word that I can think of that adequately describes the way the Old Trafford legend played....Majestic!!

Last season brought a renewed hope in most United fans. The long drout without a Premier League Championship was becoming tiring, and this title definitely gave me hope for the future. After Chelski splashed out their millions upon millions it looked as if no team would be able to match them with their incredible depth. But United prevailed as the team bought into the concept of what United really is, and that is WINNING!!

After this summer's transfer spree, you couldn't help but be optimistic again about United's chances. Adding Nani and Anderson helped to ensure our future, while adding Hargreaves and eventually Tevez definitely made the present that much brighter. But not everything has gone to plan. I have not actually been able to see the matches thus far so I won't comment in too much detail.

United opened with a draw against Reading. Not a completely surprising result, as I had a bad feeling when I first saw the draw. Reading are a tricky side, well coached, and they have 2 Americans. One of these Americans had a blinder as Marcus Hahneman repeatedly denied United's attack in goal. It's not a terrible result, but not exactly the one we were all hoping for. From all accounts, we didn't play badly either but lacked that finishing touch (I'd say we've lacked it ever since Ruud left).

The following Wednesday, United repeated their performance drawing away to Portsmouth. Now I know Portsmouth have been somewhat of a bogey team against us particularly at home, but I can't help but feel incredibly disappointed about this one. They are no where near our league, and after being up a goal we should never have allowed them back in it. And with Chelsea picking up full points from their first 2, this is a disastrous result.

This is United's worse start to the season since the 1998-99 season. Now, of course, we went on to win the treble that season, but there wasn't a Chelsea then to catch up to. What last season most importantly taught us is that we have to start the season well. Giving Chelsea a 4 point lead in the first 2 games definitely makes it an uphill struggle.

And now we face a rejuvinated City team led by Sven Ericksson. City have picked up full points thus far, and have been convincing in doing so. We are also without Rooney (for 2 months!!!) and Ronaldo (who picked up a red card in a head-butting incident against Portsmouth), two players we definitely hate to lose. But the hero today will be Carlos Tevez. I'm predicting a brace for the dynamic Argentinean to lead us inspiringly to victory over the blues!!! Come on you Reds!!!!

Stay Tuned!

Ok, sorry everyone for the lack of posts this week. There's no real explanation for it aside from laziness so I do apologize. Please keep checking the blog as I will be writing several pieces in the next few days and make sure to check out http://www.americansoccerdaily.com/ as I should have another article up for them soon (guess it would be a good time for me to start writing it though!).

I've updated the league table, we now sit second after drawing this weekend against PK-35. I think its better that I don't write a recap of the game, don't really have anything good to say about it so....But look forward to my take on Manchester United's poor start to the season, Tampere United's poor first leg against Rosenborg, the next chapter in my American in Finland journal, and a preview for this weekend's match against PP-70!!