I've read a great deal about perceived MLS failures in CONCACAF over the last week. As many of
our readers know, I am not defender or apologist for MLS. But, calling two loses to FMF sides,"
failures" again show many MLS fans live in an alternate reality. If anything Columbus and DC United
should be applauded for competing against the best this hemisphere has to offer.
Four straight losses in all competitions. One goal in nearly a month. Injuries to four of the
first-choice eleven. Fading chances (in October, no less) both domestically and in Europe. Now's as
good a time as any to start listening to the Cure.
Already introduced by Rob on the Premier League Offside, the issue of Rafa's job security is one
that has gained momentum of late, and if results don't start to go Liverpool's way it's a
discussion that will be increasingly serious.
Chris Hughton claims he will fight to improve Newcastle United's squad in the January transfer
window. Since being made permanent manager it seems many people think he'll just be a 'yes man' a
puppet and apologist for Ashley's regime but Hughton was keen to dispel such rumours, indicating
that he's strong enough to get [.
If you're from the tri-state area, and your name isn't Jerseyeppe Rossi, you
probably enjoyed a fairly nice weekend of soccer action. Not only did the US Mens National Team
advance to the semifinals of the Confederations Cup, but the Red Bulls actually took part in a
fairly exciting back and forth game this weekend against the Seattle Sounders.
While watching the US defeat Mexico (again) on Wednesday, I was keeping an eye on Ives
Galarcep's running commentary. One of his halftime thoughts kind of struck me:
Will the "Frank Hejduk is awful" people finally relax? He's not Dani Alves but he can
step up and play well when needed.
With J Hutcherson -- Yesterday, the United States opened group play in the Under-17 World Cup. They
also opened themselves up to the expected criticism that comes with giving up two short-handed
goals and losing the game. It's hard to come around on a 2-1 loss. At the same time, you don't have
to be an apologist to opt against putting this squarely on the team.
