Le Toux with a beautiful pass to set up a world class finish by Thierry Henry.

Golazo-azo-azo-azooooo

Thierry Henry scores a hat trick against the Montreal Impact. That's 5 goals in the past 2 games.

I truly don't understand why Colin Clark needed to abuse the ball boy during Houston's game against Seattle. Yes, maybe the ball boy wasn't doing his job but he's still a ball boy. To make things worse the whole thing happened literally in front of a microphone.

Colin apologized on Twitter after the game: "I'd like to offer a sincere apology to everyone who watched the game, especially the ball boy for whom I used awful language towards. I didn't mean to disrespect anyone and am sorry for letting my emotions get the best of me. It's not who I am and it won't happen again."

MLS statement on Saturday: "We are aware of the incident involving Houston Dynamo midfielder Colin Clark during the game in Seattle Friday night, and his public apology for it," the league said in a statement. "MLS is conducting a thorough review of the facts and examining possible disciplinary action."

Barclays Banks pays about $130 millions for the naming rights of the Premier League. This a global sponsorship deal. The other day I was watching a special on former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner, and they mentioned that he played in Europe for the Amsterdam Admirals. That league was called NFL Europe and it led to the idea of MLS Europe. There would be no better way to expand the MLS brand than to make the BPL, MLS Europe. Is this a ridiculous idea? Yes. But it is soo ridiculous that it could work. Well, maybe not but it is still a cool idea to think about. I don't think there's any rule that would make it not possible. Anyways, the fee to join MLS is about $100 million. $30 million more and we have ourselves MLS Europe.

Quincy Amarikwa
Rapids vs Crew

League Name: Pursuit of Victory

Joining the league couldn't be easier. Simply use this link and you'll be added automatically after you've entered the game: http://fantasy.mlssoccer.com/my-leagues/320/join/?autojoin-code=133-320.

You shouldn't need the league code, but just in case here it is: 133-320.

The 2012 MLS Player Combine is in the books and TPOV was lucky enough to be there for all three days. We went into the Combine with little or no prior knowledge of the players participating. To us this was important because it allowed us to analyze players solely based on their performance. We believe this is the right way to do it, because if not what is the point of having the Combine. We feel that we did a good job in finding out who are the best players based on performance alone.

These are our top players:

FORWARDS:

Ethan Finlay
Attended Creighton University. Started 24 games in 2011. Scored 14 goals, and assisted 6. Ethan was 13th in the NCAA D-1 in goals. 2011 MAC Hermann Trophy finalist. In High School he set a school record with 98 goals and 59 assists. He may have missed the first day, but he sure showed up to play the second day of the Combine, scoring a hat-trick. He was the only true offensive threat we saw at the combine.

Darren Mattocks
Attended Akron University were he started 22 games and scored 21 goals in 2011. He was the 2011Mid-American Conference Player of the Year and also a Generation Adidas player. 2011 MAC Hermann Trophy Semifinalist. Very good skill  on the ball. He used his skill and speed to cause problems for the defenders.

Evans Frimpong
Attend the University of Delaware (The Blue Hens). Started 20 games and scored 12 goals in 2011. Named to the All-American Second Team. 2011 MAC Hermann Trophy Semifinalist. Similar to Mattocks in regards to skill and speed. He showed great vision as well setting up shots on goal.

Casey Townsend
Attended the University of Maryland. Played 21 games in 2011, scoring 17 goals and assisting 2. 2011 MAC Hermann Trophy Semifinalist. He was our favorite striker after day one, and really showed how dangerous he was on offensive side of the field.

MIDFIELDERS:

Enzo Martinez
Attended UNC. Started 25 games scored 9 and assisted 11. Arguably the most skillful player at the Combine. He made everything he did look easy. Very good with the outside of his foot, which used to pass and shoot the ball. The only bad thing I can say about him is the missed penalty in the first game.

Kohei Yamada
Youth International from Japan. Played with Thespa Kusatsu (Second Division Japanese team) in 2011 and played in 16 games. Arguably the best midfielder at the combine, based on performance. He didn' t show up on our radar after Day 1, but was possibly the best player on the field for adiPure on Day 2 and 3. He is a quick and nimble player. Did a great job of opening up the defense with his skill. Also did a great job of directing everyone on what they should be doing in the final third. He is the best player no one is talking about.

Jason Banton
Youth International from England. Played Youth Football with Arsenal, Blackburn, and Liverpool from 2008-2011. Played at the Senior level with Burton Albion and Leicester City.  Jason was the first player that impressed me at the combine. Very skilled player who scored the final goal of the combine. Did a great job of using his speed to beat the defense, especially on the flanks.

Yuri Gorentzvaig
Youth International from Brazil. Chosen from 6,000 participants to be one of 6 players in Nike's "A Chance" and play in a tournament in England. Has had a long carrer for only being 20 years old, playing with 7 teams in Brazil between 2001-2011. In my opinion he is the second most skilled midfielder after Enzo. Didn't do much, but just like Enzo, made what he did look easy. Played well Day 1 and 2. Not so much on Day 3.

Aldo Paniagua
Youth International from Paraguay. Played for Paraguay U-20 in the 2009 U-20 World Cup. Played in the Copa Libertadores with Nacional in 2009. He scored two goals in the Combine. One the player no one seems to talk about. Did a great job contributing to the attack in the final third.

DEFENDERS:

Aubrey Perry
Attended the University of South Florida. Played in 21 games in 2011, and had one assist. In 2011 he became USF's all-time leader in games played and games started. Held his side of the field all game, every game. Was not beat once. Good strength, and speed. Arguably the best defender in the Combine. Probably the best player you've never heard of as well.

Tommy Meyer
Attended the University of Indiana. Played 22 games in 2011, and had 7 assists. He was second in the Big Ten Conference in assists. He played on the USMNT U-17 team for the U-17 World Cup in 2007. Dominated the air, solid on the ground. Best Center back, in my opinion. He is very good on the ball. Had a few blocks in front of the net in Day 1. Would be a good replacement for Tim Ream at NYRB.

RJ Allen
Attended Monmouth University. Played 23 games in 2011, scoring 3 and assisting 4. Named to the All-Pac 10 Conference First Team. Does great job of winning the ball and pushing up on the attack. He was so involved in the attack that his fellow defensemen would have to yell for him to go back.

---

Other Notable Players:

Luis Silva
Attended the University of California Santa Barbara. Played 22 games in 2011, had 17 goals and 10 assists. One of our top players after Day 1, but seemed to slowly fall out of our top list as other player stepped up their game. One of the best at distributing the ball in the Combine.

Lucky Mkosana
Attended Dartmouth and was the Ivy League Player of the Year. Lucky may be the most talked about forward. Our thoughts on him are that he would be better off as a midfielder. He is a player who leaves it all on the field, and does a great job of winning and distributing the ball. We however didn't really see him as an attacking threat. Yes it is true that you can't judge someone solely based on how many goals he scored, but his job is to score goals and he missed a handful of chances. We felt there were other forwards that performed better than he did. Overall we were not impressed with him as forward, like we said he would be a great midfielder.

Warren Creavalle
He attended the University of Central Florida, and was named to the All-Conference USA First Team in 2010 and 2011. Warren is a player that played his best on the final day of the combine. He did a nice job using his strength to distribute the ball in the midfield.

Here are our Day 2 Best XI. Overall Best XI will be published after Day 3.


Other Notable Players

• FW - Casey Townsend
• MF - Enzo Martinez
• FW / MF - Yuri Gorentzvaig
• FW - Luke Holmes
• DF - Austin Berry

After Day 1 of the 2012 MLS Combine here are our Best XI.


Other notable players:

• FW - Chandler Hoffman
• FW - Babayele Sodade
• MF - Sam Garza
• MF - Brendan King
• MF - Jason Banton
• MF - Warren Creavalle
• DF - Charles Rodriguez

One of the problems with Soccer in America is the fact that there is no promotion and relegation, making it impossible for local teams to have a chance at top tier soccer. Some of the major arguments against Pro/Rel is that it just isn't American. Well, I think I may have solved all of the problems and I did it in an American way. What is more American than a thirty-team league? The NBA, NHL, and NFL all have 30+ team leagues. A league of that size would also mean that more people in more areas will have a chance to enjoy top tier soccer in the United States. Here is my idea: Thirty teams divided into two Conferences (Eastern and Western) and Six Divisions. The division leaders plus the next five best teams in each conference make the playoffs for a total of eight from each conference. The two conference champions then meet in the MLS Cup Final.

The Revs finally upgraded their jerseys

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

The longest Major League Soccer campaign will finally conclude this evening with the sixteenth edition of the MLS Cup final. Unlike last year, hardcore and casual fans can rejoice to a league championship featuring the Los Angeles Galaxy; a club who righteously deserves to be the final. The Galaxy’s resume includes winning the Supporters’ Shield for the second-straight year, losing only five matches out of 34, having the second highest accumulated points total in the history of league. Not enough for you? How about being the only MLS side to win their Champions League group, being only the second MLS team to accomplish such a feat.

Despite all the external competition, the Galaxy maintained the rhythm going through the MLS Cup Playoffs, where casual fans claim that teams actually decide to compete. Silencing all doubters, the team won at New York, rallied in LA to win the series, and routed Real Salt Lake to return to the final.

Their opponent, the Houston Dynamo, is taking the role of the underdog status, as well as by some playoff criticizers as the “fluke team”, which is a rather unusual posistion for the club. The Dynamo, though only five years old, have reached their third MLS Cup championship, and their first since 2007, back when the Revolution were relevant and D.C. United were the posistion the Galaxy now occupy. The Dynamo also has a perfect 2–0 record in the championship.

While there is a far lesser degree of out-lash for the Dynamo making the final, it is likely because of Houston’s rich MLS Cup history. That makes sense, but the criticism is very justified. After all, Houston had a far easier route to the final, and their win against Kansas City was likely flirting with the word fluke, but the point being is they won their matches and did enough to make the final. The fact they scrapped the bare minimum is likely the cause for people accusing them of being a fluke team.

Still, the match will likely be a gritty, sludgy, low-scoring affair; but every aspect of the match falls into LA’s favor. Especially with the absence of Houston’s Brad Davis. The Galaxy have extreme depth in every posistion on the field, while Houston, does not have quite the same depth, but their ability to counterattack might pose a real threat to even LA’s backline, which allowed the fewest goals in history.

One question: Why?

“Super cyan is an evolution of the Sounders FC distinct color palette, The super cyan kit with the electricity trim definitely sets the Sounders apart. As always, we’re proud to feature Xbox on this and all of our Sounders FC kits.” - Sounders FC owner Joe Roth

photo by erocsid

• by Allison Norris, writing from Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’ve ever wondered how long Real Salt Lake is allowed to have a normal game, it’s a grand total of thirty minutes. Those thirty minutes came last Saturday during the first leg of the MLS Playoffs against the Seattle Sounders. For the first time since April, Real had its first choice of starters on the field – and the result was miraculous. Their center-back, Jamison Olave went down after a half hour with a muscle strain and toward the end of the second half the other center-back, Nat Borchers, went down with a similar injury. As excited as everyone was to see the full squad, the match’s result was reflective of what RSL has learned to do this year: deal with random injuries, ejections and absences.

Real Salt Lake demolished the Seattle Sounders in what was easily one of the absolute best matches of the year for the home team. Jason Kreis later credited the energy of the team to the atmosphere inside Rio Tinto Stadium. The audience was ready for a solid match and the team felt it. The small corner of Seattle travellers was rather quiet in comparison, despite their attempts at chants and choreography. RSL walked away from that match with three goals in hand – two from Alvaro Saborio, off assists from Javier Morales, and a third goal from Ned Grabavoy, assisted into the net by Seattle’s Brad Evans – though they were determined not to let that much of a lead guide their approach to the second leg at Seattle.

Kicking off in a downpour at Century Link Field, it was obvious from the first touch Seattle wanted to make a dramatic comeback. Possession was given to the Sounders, as well as attempts on goal. Real Salt Lake ended with very low possession and only one shot, not even on target. Fabian Espindola had the best chance of the night with a left-foot shot that was deflected by Kasey Keller. Most of the game was played in RSL’s half of the field with Seattle determined to get some goals. The Sounders were forced to make two substitutions in the first twenty minutes, obviously changing their approach to the game.

Real Salt Lake started without the skills of Olave or Borchers. They had a make-shift back line that had never played together in the history of the team. Tony Beltran made his return to the field after dealing with an injury for a month and a half. He played the full ninety and proved to be a very valuable piece to the away side. In the first half, Seattle had a chance on goal. Rimando was outside his box and Beltran made the lone run back to defend the goal. Seattle took the shot and with all his agility, Beltran made a huge save – heading the ball away as it sailed straight and true toward the back of the net. Even Seattle had to have been a little impressed. The fans at Century Link Field made their feelings known by booing Beltran as he made a throw-in a few moments later. Looking back, it was the save that changed the game.

Second half, Seattle came back determined and got the best of the visitors by getting in two goals. One, off a questionable penalty. Rimando chose correctly, but it went just beneath his reach. The second goal, off a mistake in RSL’s defense that rolled quietly to the far post. It was survival of the fittest after that. Real Salt Lake could not lose by more than two goals. They fought hard, having to take Javier Morales out due to injury. All attacking was lost and it was containment from there on out. Possession was patch and the ball skipped around all over the wet turf.

When the final whistle blew, after five minutes of agonizing extra-time, the television broadcast showed Jason Kreis’ face. He gave a giant sigh and looked at the sky. Every member of RSL Nation did the exact same thing. On the other hand, this match ended the career of goalkeeper Kasey Keller. It was a pretty relaxing night for him, but he likely would have chosen a different end. The Sounders are probably sad to lose such a skilled, respected veteran as Kasey Keller. Next season may be very different for them.

Back in April when Real Salt Lake was making their run to the CONCACAF Champions League Final, MLS regarded them as the best team in America. Everyone was behind them in their attempt to go further than any American team ever had. Everyone wanted to be like them. Adversity caught up with RSL, losing in the Final match and losing their form after Javier Morales’ injury. They were quickly pushed to the back of everyone’s thoughts. Now at the end of the season, no one is talking about the team that had accomplished so much earlier in the year. For an RSL fan it’s easy to see that in an alternate reality where they didn’t lose Morales to injury, or struggle with everything else that came their way, this is a team that would have easily been sitting at the top of the league. Those thirty minutes of relief, having their full squad on the field, was a show of what this team really can do. Finishing in third place is no laughing matter, considering everything this team has had to overcome.

As it stands, Real Salt Lake came through where it mattered most. Despite everyone’s opinion of what should have happened, they are now in the Western Conference final – one match away from another MLS Cup. This is a team that has something to prove and Seattle can now testify this opponent is not going to leave the competition without a fight.

Real Salt Lake is quite happy to fly under the radar.

photo by Ryan Knapp

• by Cole O'Brien, writing from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Overland Park has a special place in my heart. Eight years of my life were spent in this town in the northeast Kansas. Overland Park is also the home to Sporting Kansas City. Of course while I spent my time there, they were known as the Kansas City Wizards.

With a 1-0 win over D.C. United my childhood team found themselves first in the east and in the playoffs. Looking back to the start of the season no one, including Sporting themselves, would ever have imagined that they would be basking in the glory they are currently enjoying. Of course, the start of their season was spent under quite different circumstances. KC treaded through a 10-match away streak, stealing only six points from the spoils. This stretch included a devastating 6-1 loss to the Seattle Sounders, the very same team who months later barely stole a win thanks to Rosalez's heroics in the waning minutes of the match.

Sporting haven't always been a bad team, only the last couple of years have seen the team fall apart. In 2004 the Wizards, as they were known then, clinched first place in the league. This was the last real taste of enjoyment KC would taste. Now, seven years later, that same team are looking more dangerous than ever. The self proclaimed MLS Cup contenders boast one of the best records of the second half of the season, earning a tie with Cup favorites L.A. Galaxy and holding off several threats to KC's reign of the east.

Kansas City's second leg quarterfinal opponent will be decided in the coming week as the F.C. Dallas, Columbus Crew, and Colorado Rapids trash through the wild card round to earn the right to a chance at the cup. As many barbed comments were thrown at Major League Soccer for their new playoff structure, it created the amount of drama you'd expect on the last day of the EPL. What's most hard to believe is the drama is not over yet. Fans still have to endure a playoff series that will bring out the best and worst in teams. The same teams that found themselves riding a high into the playoffs can find themselves thrown under the boat and torn to pieces from the pressure.

Kansas City has accomplished the impossible the season. Going from a point where their own press portrayed them as the worst team in the league to winning the east in the final week of play. It wasn't easy and Sporting's record shows it. Even during their highs KC struggled to win, capturing ties with most of their opponents. Nonetheless, KC for a time held the longest unbeaten streak in the league until it was so suddenly ended by the Seattle Sounders courtesy of Rozales' two extra time strikes.

The blues shot a newfound sense of pride throughout their town that hadn't seen a successful sports team since 2004 (the last time the Wizards won the league). Soon enough Livestrong Sporting Park, also known as the "Blue Cauldron", was filled to the brim with sell out crowds. The new stadium even attracted the attention of the US Men's National Team who hosted their Gold Cup final group stage match against Guadoloupe in the heart of the midwest city.

In the summer I found myself visiting Overland Park and enjoyed a couple of matches inside the blue hell. The first match I laid eyes upon was the hyped up Gold Cup quarterfinals. Livestrong Sporting Park was host to Canada vs Panama and the US vs Guadoloupe. The passion of the fans was incredible. The supporters section is one of the most energetic you will ever find yourself engulfed in. The fans are singing songs of such passion that you find yourself tired and half deaf by the time the final whistle has blown. The fans center inside the corner of the stadium is host to over two dozen plasmas that host parties during away games and a great rest for anyone in the supporters section.

This very same $200 million stadium is the ground that Sporting won the rights to play at during both legs of their Semifinal playoffs. "It's great to have the home field advantage, but you've still got to win." head coach Peter Vermes said. "What I feel good about is the guys came on the road and they got a win. That's what you've go to do in this next round of the play offs."

Eastern Conference Champions or not, Sporting Kansas City are certainly a force to be reckoned with come play offs. Boasting a 12-3-9 record from June 9 forward it's no secret that the blues are one of the most consistent teams in the league, especially when playing at their home grounds. It's hard to see anyone else save maybe the recovering New York Red Bulls taking down the surging steam roller that is Sporting Kansas City.

Watch out L.A. Galaxy. It seems you may finally have a formidable opponent.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

The 2011 Major League Soccer regular season has concluded, and it is time to release the final edition of the MLS Power Rankings for 2011. This final list is more reflective on teams final form and how it would look going into the 2012 campaign.


1. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 2
Result: W 3–1 vs. CHV (L 1–2 vs. MOT in CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-W-L-W-W

Regardless if Seattle did not have the Shield, their form closing out the season and the Champions League was on a high note. Sure, the Galaxy won their group, but the Sounders played to a more competitive level while fielding their reserves against Monterrey than LA vs. Houston. This side seems to be a good MLS Cup title bet, with or without Mauro Rosales, a likely MVP and Newcomer of the Year candidate.

2. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: L 1–3 @ HOU (W 1–0 @ MOR in CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-W-W-L-W

Thanks to Jack McBean’s 88th minute consolation goal, there was something to smile about in a otherwise forgotten final regular season match. Sure it was a loss at 70 points for the first time in league history (since draws have been permitted) but who cares? They have the Shield, won their CCL group (thanks to a thing of beauty from Juninho) and are top seeds in the MLS Cup Playoffs.

3. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 3
Result: W 2–0 vs. NY
Last Five: T-W-T-W-W

Whether you call it “worst to first” or “worst to fifth”, Sporting Kansas City made one incredible turnaround to top the Eastern Conference. Their style completely shut down United’s attack, and their resilience finally snapped the side’s defense. If Sporting can contain this, they might make a serious run into the MLS Cup final.

4. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 4
Result: W 3–1 vs. LA
Last Five: W-W-T-W-W

Unlike their conference counterparts out in the nation’s capital, the Dynamo somehow found a hot streak going into the postseason, which suits them well in arguably one of the easiest routes to the MLS Cup finals. Final notes: If Adam Moffat does not get Goal of the Week, then something is outright wrong. Will Bruin is a likely candidate for Rookie of the Year, and did anyone catch the attendance figures for their regular season finale! Numbers that are within an eyeshot of Sounders crowds! (30,018)

5. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 6
Result: W 3–2 vs. CLB
Last Five: W-T-L-W-W

Playoffs or not, Frank Klopas brought new life into this squad, and turned the Fire from being a lowly cellar dweller to being a flashy side narrowly missing the playoffs. If Fire management wants to bring Chicago back into the mix of “big market powerhouses”, it would be wise to make Klopas the head coach and find a new technical director.

6. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 5
Result: T 1–1 @ POR
Last Five: L-L-L-T-T

In the strangest of ways possible, their draw earned Salt Lake a bye in the Conference Semifinals, which many pundits will claim as a competitive disadvantage for RSL. On the bright side, as Kries has pointed out (thankfully), he has noted that their third place overall posistion might reap a possible Champions League berth, should Seattle and LA (who have already earned CCL berths) make the final.

7. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 12
Result: W 1–0 vs. PHI
Last Five: W-T-W-L-W

Well, it wasn’t pretty and they chose the hardest way possible, but New York earned a berth into the playoffs as the last seed. Executives will easily be pulling for the Red Bulls against Dallas for that dreamland LA v. NY conference semi. If New York wins, the soccer world will be in bedlam...again.

8. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 8
Result: L 0–1 @ NY
Last Five: W-T-W-T-L

While fans and the media likely will herald Pitor Nowak’s job guiding the Union to a playoff berth in their sophomore season, the Polish manager looked all but disgusted in their final loss. Regardless of the importance, etc. of any match the guy hates to lose, and likely is the only one in the City of Brotherly Love that is unsatisfied with the Union’s record and results.

9. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 10
Result: W 2–1 @ VAN (L 0–2 @ CSL in CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: L-T-W-T-W

Unsurprisingly, the Rapids, even with “champions swagger” found themselves to be in a posistion that, well...everyone expected. Just being in that area above the playoff bubble zone, in others words seventh in the league’s overall standings, along with just missing the knockout round of the Champions League, third in their group. Oh, and of course, immediately crashing and burning out of the U.S. Open Cup in qualification propers. And the path to win their second MLS Cup looks eerily similar to the path paved for them in 2010.

10. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 7
Result: L 2–4 @ SJ (L 0–3 vs. TOR in CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: L-L-W-W-L

Suddenly, their brief period of wins had crashed as the team disastrously ruined their Champions League run, being shut out and wiped out by Toronto FC only to lose their regular season finale by another considerable margin. And like that, Dallas looks to be on a downswing going into 2012. Still, they have one final cup to possibly grasp after narrowly losing out the Texas Derby, U.S. Open, Supporters’ Shield, and now, the Champions League.

11. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 9
Result: L 2–3 @ CHI
Last Five: L-L-W-W-L

All in all, it is still impressive to think that the rebuilding Columbus side managed to earn a playoff berth. And with a likely urge to seek revenge on Colorado in the 2010 rematch, the Crew may find themselves hunting for some 2008 glory. Whether that happens or not looks to be more centered around the latter.

12. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 11
Result: L 1–2 @ VAN; L 1–2 vs. CHI
Last Five: L-L-L-T-L

Every team in MLS this season has had their swoon and their rough patch. D.C., stuck in the U.S., just so happens to be hitting their’s as the worst possible time. Their gut-wrenching loss to Chicago, probably killed their postseason hopes for the fourth-consecutive year. Yes, they still have a frightening realistic chance of still making the playoffs, only if they win out their two-match home stand, but let’s be real: D.C. United and consecutive wins simply don’t mix.

13. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 15
Result: W 4–2 vs. FCD
Last Five: T-T-W-L-W

The Wonderous Wondo might have fallen short in tiebreakers for his second-consecutive Golden Boot, but this club exhibits qualities of playoff caliber, had the side not fallen into a massive summer swoon. The real need though to prevent that from happening again will have to be an injection of some depth. If that’s Frank Yallop’s focus this offseason, the ‘Quakes will likely build up on 2010 and brush this season behind.

14. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 13
Result: T 1–1 @ DC; T 1–1 vs. RSL
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

Frustrating draws to close out the see, the Timbers should be proud of their return to top flight soccer. Not everyday as an expansion franchise or a “promoted side” make the playoffs their first year. Of course there is the Chicago and Seattle exceptions, but Chicago entered in an era where 80% of the teams made the playoffs, and Seattle simply had lightning in a bottle with their then-unprecedented fan support. Portland, well, by now, the fans should know.

15. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 14
Result: T 2–2 vs. NE
Last Five: W-W-L-T-T

Danny Kovermann’s has easily etched his place in the hearts of Red Patch Boys across Ontario. Aron Winter, well, has been less dicey in terms of supporter perception. The only way to solidify his place in TFC, along with his Dutch facelift has been partially done: a berth in the Champions League quarterfinals. Next...the MLS Cup Playoffs. And with an arsenal of attacking talent, this side looks like they might be a contender to win the Eastern Conference next season.

16. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 17
Result: L 1–2 vs. COL
Last Five: L-L-W-L-L

Towards the latter half of the season, the ‘Caps were finally gaining momentum and becoming competitive in league matches. By “competitive”, I’m talking teams that were MLS heavyweights and lowly MLS sides who sat in their tier during the course of the year. Martin Rennie, who turned the Carolina RailHawks into a winning machine in the NASL, might be the solution to give this scrappy team a winning mentality.

17. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 16
Result: T 1–3 vs. SEA
Last Five: T-W-T-L-L

The way I see it, losing at home to mixed reserve and starting sides, Chivas USA looks to be the only sure bet (other than the Montreal Impact) of an MLS side that will likely miss the 2012 MLS Cup Playoffs. And the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs have yet to begin!

18. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 18
Result: T 2–2 @ TOR
Last Five: L-L-L-L-T

Long story short, 2011 was an absolute disaster for the Revs. Not necessarily due to their attack, or posting goals on the scoreboard, but their back line. The defense has lost the Revs countless games this season, and is a reason why they spent a majority of the season at the bottom of the Eastern Conference and overall tables. I’m curious to see if Stevie Nicol is around for his eleventh-consecutive season in charge of the club.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

Five more playoff spots were chewed up heading into the final week. Now it’s one spot left for four teams, making this whole 10-club postseason expansion look genius. Even if a mix of the hardcore fans and casual fans are now treating the MLS Cup as the “League/Carling Cup” of the U.S., it’s still an exciting race to watch. Essentially, in this power ranking list, your club either stayed in the same place or dramatically went up or down the ladder.


1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 2
Result: W 1–0 vs. CHV
Last Five: W-W-W-L-W

With a ever so critical Champions League group stage finale this week, as well as the MLS Cup Playoffs brewing, Los Angeles seemed to have figured out the attacking combo without Robbie Keane. Also, Adam Cristman, he’ll give MLS fans cheering the Galaxy this coming CCL game major headaches.

2. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 1
Result: W 2–1 vs. SJ
Last Five: W-L-W-W-W

This is tough. In practically any other MLS season, Seattle would be leaps and bounds the strongest club in the league and the clear-cut Supporters Shield winner. However, it just so happens that the team is playing in a day and age where the Galaxy have assembled easily one of the strongest MLS squads to ever grace the pitch.

3. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 3
Result: W 2–0 vs. NY
Last Five: L-T-W-T-W

A regular season turnaround has been complete for Vermes and Co. Sporting has not only clinched a playoff berth, but have become a possessive, attacking side that looks to be the heavyweights of the murky Eastern Conference. It may not be saying a whole lot given, FC Dallas and Real Salt Lake and their capabilities, but Sporting is playing much better form-wise than the two.

4. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 5
Result: W 2–0 @ POR
Last Five: T-W-W-T-W

Houston finally managed to get road win number two on the season. And, what a great time to do so. A clutch performance like that, in a hostile Jeld-Wen, should be an early sign that Houston might make a stab at the Eastern Conference final.

5. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 4
Result: T 0–0 @ COL
Last Five: L-L-L-L-T

By now, everyone should expect Salt Lake to be shaving points in order to earn an easy route to the finals. Though, I cannot help but think the extra play-in match will come to haunt Salt Lake in the Conference Semifinals, should they win their play-in match, something that the American soccer blogosphere has already unanimously assumed.

6. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 7
Result: T 1–1 @ HOU (L 0–2 @ SEA in the U.S. Open Cup)
Last Five: W-W-T-L-W

Let’s forget the fluke offsides drama for a moment and appreciate what Frank Klopas has done. In the middle of the Chicago campaign, he took the helm as interim coach and transformed this side from being one of the league’s worst to being a mid-table club knocking heavily on the door for the playoffs. Their unbelievable rally against D.C. in injury time proved just that. However, this surge, sadly, looks to be too little, too late. Their form though, replicates that of a team that has had a postseason berth for awhile.

7. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 12
Result: W 2–1 @ CHI; W 2–0 vs. VAN
Last Five: L-L-L-W-W

After causing a great bit of scare these past few weeks, the Hoops snap out of their swoon, and earn a well-deserve victory in Chicago at home to Vancouver. Given Dallas’ calliber, something to this level should have been expected. Especially the 2–0 win at home to the ‘Caps.

8. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 6
Result: W 3–2 vs. DC; T 1–1 @ CHV
Last Five: T-W-T-W-T

Getting a home draw to Toronto might have gotten the Union into the playoffs, but getting a home draw to Toronto might not be a sign of this side going far in the playoffs. Completely missing out on a top spot out East, Nowak’s facelift Philly side might have to face RSL or Dallas in the playoffs, should the dominoes fall that way.

9. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 13
Result: W 3–0 @ NE
Last Five: L-L-L-W-W

Joining the surge of Eastern Conference clubs to earn postseason berths, Andres Mendoza made a powerful statement showing he’s a rightful successor of Barros Schelloto, and worthy of the DP tag. Being one of the few surprises of the 2011, Columbus looks like they’ll unexpectedly retain their class as one of the Eastern elites for a few more seasons.

10. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 9
Result: T 0–0 vs. RSL
Last Five: L-L-T-W-T

Colorado has a long, odd history of being that under the radar team to either just make or just miss the playoffs. And despite being the “defending champs” that no one gives them credit for, the Rapids found themselves in that posistion again, in the playoffs, but not being convincing in terms of how deep they may or may not go. The same might as well apply to the Champions League, regardless of how they fair in making the quarterfinals or not.

11. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 8
Result: L 1–2 @ VAN; L 1–2 vs. CHI
Last Five: W-L-L-L-L

Every team in MLS this season has had their swoon and their rough patch. D.C., stuck in the U.S., just so happens to be hitting their’s as the worst possible time. Their gut-wrenching loss to Chicago, probably killed their postseason hopes for the fourth-consecutive year. Yes, they still have a frightening realistic chance of still making the playoffs, only if they win out their two-match home stand, but let’s be real: D.C. United and consecutive wins simply don’t mix.


12. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 11
Result: L 0–2 vs. KC
Last Five: L-W-T-W-L

Although New York got soundly beat by a much more organized Kansas City, the Thierry Henry ejection, the poor chemistry, and the under-confident defense just emphasize the likelihood that New York will not keep their cool and bow out of the playoffs, whether it’s to Portland, Chicago or their bitter Atlantic Cup rivals down I-95. If so, more changes will be need in New York than the amount of tweets and blogs claiming this is the biggest flop in American soccer history.

13. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 10
Result: W 1–0 @ VAN
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

Needing a victory for a playoff berth, at home, against Houston, who has the worst road record other than Vancouver, literally everything played in Portland favor. However, soccer isn’t played on paper, and in lieu of a inaugural berth in the playoffs, Portland now has to do the same task as D.C. United to have a shot. Problem? Their final two matches are on the road.

14. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 15
Result: T 1–1 @ PHI
Last Five: W-W-L-T-T

While TFC fans are easily disgruntled by another year of playoff failure, the Reds are on the cusp of Champions League knockout play. To casual fans that means nothing too special since it’s not good ‘ol North American playoffs, but to hardcore fans, that alone might be a lot more special than a postseason berth, as well as give the supporters optimism about 2012 as being more than just a team that could scrape into the playoffs.

15. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 16
Result: L 1–2 @ SEA
Last Five: T-T-T-W-L

On the bright side, there is a very potent chance that Chris Wondolowski actually wins the MLS Golden Boot for the second consecutive year. The stinging feeling has to be the inability San Jose had on closing out an incredible road victory against their Heritage Cup rivals.

16. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1–1 vs. PHI
Last Five: L-T-W-T-L

If we annotate this “SuperClasico” or “L.A. Derby” matchup, the Goats were pretty damn lucky not to be outright embarrassed by the reserve attack, who had shot after shot kiss or skim the pipes. Things look better for Chivas USA version 2011 than 2010, but whether or not they can be a playoff contender come 2012 is still in doubt.

17. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: W 2–1 vs. DC; L 1–2 @ FCD
Last Five: T-L-L-W-L

Unable to capture a road victory this season (okay, the New York match was a bit screwy), that has to be somewhat of a priority going into the ‘Caps second year in their return to top-tier soccer.

18. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 17
Result: L 0–3 vs. CLB
Last Five: L-L-L-L-L

This easily has to be the ultimate nadir for New England, not just on the field, but off as well. Poor crowds, poor marketing, and an owner that simply hates the idea of trying to improve the the club in any shape, way, or form. In terms of fixing the team ON the field though, get a new back line, and let the midfield and offense gel.

Johnathon Sykes (@MrjSykes) showed me a interesting little series on MLS referees. In this three part series Paul Tamberino (Senior Director, Competition for MLS) trains Jason Saghini to become a referee. Enjoy.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

For the last month and a half, both Seattle and Los Angeles have occupied the top two spots of the Power Rankings ladder. And for the first time since July 26 (Week 19) a club has dethroned the Galaxy from the top of the rankings, and yes, like last time, this time it is Seattle.

1. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 2
Result: W 2–1 @ NE (W 2–0 vs. CHI in the U.S. Open Cup; T 2–2 @ COM in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-L-W-W-W

Seattle, or should we say Three-attle, may not have the record to capture the Supporters’ Shield from LA, but their three-peat Open Cup title, and thus far being the only MLS side in the Champions League to qualify for the quarterfinals speaks enough of their depth during excruciating travel, and their resiliency. Next on the agenda: the MLS Cup, and Seattle looks to be mighty heavy favorites.

2. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: W 2–1 vs. RSL; L 0–2 @ NY (W 2–1 @ MOR in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-T-W-W-L

Really, the mulligan of the week has to be LA traveling to New York and burning out in a forgettable 2–0 loss. Mind that it was only the Galaxy’s fourth loss in league play, and that the Shield looks set to remain in SoCal for a second consecutive season.

3. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 6
Result: W 2–1 vs. CLB; T 1–1 @ SJ
Last Five: L-T-T-W-T

Earning results, even if they’re ugly is, well, the best way to earn your way to an MLS Cup title. And, given the fact mid-table, or upper-mid table clubs have recently found their way to reaching the final, I’m going out to say the Wizards are likely to reach the MLS Cup final.

4. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 3
Result: L 1–2 @ LA
Last Five: W-W-L-L-L

Their three-match slide may be excusable, but the fact is the Galaxy are a team with much depth like Salt Lake. The difference? The Galaxy are juggling their way through Champions League unlike Salt Lake.

5. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 5
Result: T 1–1 vs. CHI
Last Five: L-T-W-W-T

Houston, nice recovery from last year. The voids of past Dynamo greats such as Stuart Holden and Ricardo Clark have been (nearly) filled. Unless a tragic disaster concludes the season, the Dynamo look set to stake claims on a playoff spot. Maybe even a top three spot in the Conference.

6. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 9
Result: W 3–2 vs. DC; T 1–1 @ CHV
Last Five: T-W-T-W-T

It’s thrilling victories like their home victory to D.C. United that are badly needed in the MLS Cup Playoffs, even the same for Chivas USA. The flare and attacking mindset were all there for the Union. The defense...

7. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 10
Result: T 1–1 @ HOU (L 0–2 @ SEA in the U.S. Open Cup)
Last Five: W-L-W-W-T

One of the hottest teams in the east right now is...Chicago?! Yes, the parity-plagued, mediocre east has the Fire living up to their name. The playoffs are still a bit of a stretch, but if they field reserves at Houston and draw, and keep up their sudden splurge of victories, the Fire might find their way into the wildcard round...against all odds.

8. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 4
Result: L 2–3 @ PHI; L 1–2 @ CLB
Last Five: W-T-W-L-L

On a two-match road swing against Conference foes, we learned why one does not put Joseph Ngwenya in the rotation. In their first losing streak since April, D.C. blew some matches in hand to peak the conference. With a three-match home stand to close out the season, United look in a good posistion still to make the playoffs for the first time since 2007.

9. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 12
Result: W 1–0 vs. FCD (W 3–1 @ MET in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: T-L-L-T-W

Colorado managed to end their winless streak in an 2010 MLS Cup final rematch. Not only that, the Rapids made head coach Gary Smith look like a depth genius as they stormed the turf in El Salvador.

10. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 8
Result: W 1–0 @ VAN
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

The Timbers grabbed a critical three points on the road to their meager I-5 rivals, but lacking matches in hand, might cause these scrappy Timbers to narrowly miss out on the postseason.

11. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 11
Result: T 1–1 @ TOR; W 2–0 vs. LA
Last Five: W-L-W-T-W

After an uninspiring performance that was saved by a wicked Thierry Henry strike, the Red Bulls plucked apart a makeshift Galaxy squad, and in sheer style. The only thing holding them back from turning it into a complete rout was that little thing called the crossbar.

12. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 7
Result: L 0–1 @ COL (L 3–5 @ TAU in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-L-L-L-L

Extending out too much has really hurt Dallas, and now they’re falling off the map. They’ll likely still make the playoffs, but it will complete their crashing and burning process.

13. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 15
Result: L 1–2 @ SKC; W 2–1 vs. DCU
Last Five: L-T-L-L-W

While their odds to win the Eastern Conference might be damaged, their winless streak finally came to an end with a hardworking rally, and a Eddie Gavin header, to defeat red-hot D.C. United.

14. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 13
Result: T 1–1 vs. PHI
Last Five: L-L-L-T-W

Angel’s second half strike against Philly was enough to salvage a point, but ultimately, the match along with the fate of other league matches mathematically ended Chivas’ postseason hopes. The good news, they look to have a collection of players and management that could give the Goats a competitive edge for at least next year.

15. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1–1 vs. NY (T 1–1 vs. UNAM in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: T-W-W-L-T

Two late draws at home might have punctured their odds to get into the Champions League knockout round, as well as officially knocked the Reds out of the MLS Cup Playoffs, breaking the record for the most consecutive seasons failing to qualify for the playoffs. (San Jose held the old record from 1997–2001).

16. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 16
Result: T 1–1 vs. SKC
Last Five: W-L-T-T-T

Now, it’s official; the ‘quakes are out of the playoffs. San Jose fans might just want Yallop to be the first person to be cleaned out of house.

17. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 17
Result: L 1–2 vs. SEA
Last Five: T-W-L-L-L

New England is hopelessly sitting in the same posistion D.C. United was in this time last year. Miserable campaign, losing matches left and right, and a young phenom becoming a distraction from the eyesore of a poorly organized back line.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: L 0–1 vs. POR
Last Five: L-W-T-L-L

On the brighter end of things, the Whitecaps have a beautiful, domed stadium to call home. Doesn’t suit up well with a swiss cheese defense, and a loss to a Cascadian rival.