MLS All Stars: Week 17

Portland Timbers wrapped up MLS Rivalry Week with a resounding 4-1 victory over Seattle Sounders after New York Red Bulls made it two wins from two New York derbies.

Here’s who made our MLS team of the week...

Robles was in top form as Red Bulls won twice

Goalkeeper – Luis Robles (New York Red Bulls)

Robles helped the Red Bulls end a run of four straight defeats in midweek, keeping a cleansheet as New York claimed a crucial 1-0 win against Real Salt Lake.

The goalkeeper was on hand again in their local derby with New York City making four saves to keep the Red Bulls lead and maintain the bragging rights in the Big Apple.

Right Back – Steve Birnbaum (DC United)

DC United will be delighted to have taken four points from their two road games in Week 17 – after scoring just once they have their defence to thank.

Birnbaum was immense as DC kept cleansheets against Chicago Fire and then in Toronto to stretch their lead in the Eastern Conference to 11 points.

Centre Back – Matt Miazga (New York Red Bulls)

Two wins and only one goal conceded in 180 minutes would please any defender but Miazga has the added bonus of scoring the game-winning goal in the New York derby in Week 17.

Despite losing four on the bounce before this week, the Red Bulls are just one point off second place in the Eastern Conference and will continue to move up on the back of a resolute defence.

Centre Back – Bobby Boswell (DC United)

Boswell is the rock at the heart of DC’s defence which has conceded one goal or fewer in 17 of their 20 regular season fixtures in 2015 – it’s early but they surely can’t miss out on the play-offs now.

Only San Jose have conceded fewer goals in MLS this season than DC’s 17, and they have played four games fewer than the current Supporters’ Shield leaders.

Rogers scored his first goal in over four years

Left Back – Robbie Rogers (LA Galaxy)

The former Leeds United full back could do little to prevent San Jose Earthquakes’ comfortable win on Saturday but makes the team for his goal in Galaxy’s 5-0 rout over Philadelphia Union.

Rogers scored his first goal in over four years to make it 2-0 on the night and kick-off a weekend of celebrations for the LGBT community after gay marriage was declared legal by the Supreme Court.

Right Midfield – Ethan Finlay (Columbus Crew)

MLS’ leading assist maker showed he wasn’t just a one trick pony as he added a goal to his two assists in Week 17.

Finlay is the first player to reach 10 assists for the season and with Kei Kamara heading the goalscoring chart, we should see Crew moving swiftly up a congested Eastern Conference.

Centre Midfield – Juninho (LA Galaxy)

Two games and two goals for Juninho in Week 17 – the midfielder is the key to this current Galaxy side, who have scored 11 in their last three matches.

Galaxy’s early season slump came as the midfield failed to pick decisive passes, Juninho provides the cutting edge and has the ability to keep the game moving swiftly turning defence to attack.

Left Midfield – Fabian Castillo (FC Dallas)

Following a blistering start to the season Castillo’s form dipped and FC Dallas’ results followed – Week 17 saw him return to top form and Dallas to winning ways.

Castillo was a constant menace for local rivals Houston Dynamo; his deflected shot opened the scoring before he found the bottom corner unassisted to seal a 2-0 win.

Striker – Fanendo Adi (Portland Timbers)

After being selected to start for the first time in six matches, Adi repaid his manager in style by notching his third brace of the season as Portland hammered local rivals Seattle 4-1.

Wondolowski is San Jose's topscorer with nine goal in 2015

His two late goals included the matchwinner and helped the Timbers to their first regular season MLS victory over Seattle since 2013.

Striker – Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)

Wondo sparked San Jose’s comeback victory over MLS Cup holders LA Galaxy with a majestic right-foot volley that shot into the top corner in a flash.

Wondolowski is the perfect captain for the Earthquakes – so often he is the inspiration behind their best performances and he led from the front again as San Jose claimed a memorable victory.

Striker – Robbie Keane (LA Galaxy)

Keane was abnormally quiet against San Jose but he showed why is a class above most in MLS, producing a majestic performance, as Galaxy swept aside Philadelphia in midweek.

The Irishman produced two assists, including a wonderful one-two with Juninho and got on the scoresheet himself, grabbing his third of the season from the penalty spot.

Images courtesy of Jeff Zelevansky, Shaun Clark and Ronald Martinez, with thanks.

MLS 360: Week 17

Second half goals from Chris Duvall, Bradley Wright-Phillips and Matt Miazga completed a comeback to hand New York Red Bulls a 3-1 derby victory.

Thomas McNamara gave New York City an early lead but it was not enough to extend their winning run in front of a sold out Yankee Stadium.

Nagbe scored his first of the season for Timbers

Portland Timbers also secured a derby victory as they dispatched Seattle Sounders 4-1 with Darlington Nagbe ending his season-long scoring drought.

Lamar Neagle equalized for Seattle but a brace from Fanendo Adi and a stoppage-time strike from Rodney Wallace secured the bragging rights. 

After scoring 10 in their last two matches LA Galaxy were brought back down with a bump, losing 3-1 away at San Jose Earthquakes.

A Juninho wonder strike gave the visitors the lead before Earthquakes battled back through Chris Wondolowski, Clarence Goodson’s first goal in eight years and Cordell Cato.

In a weekend of local clashes, FC Dallas beat Houston Dynamo 2-0 in the Texas derby as they returned to the Toyota Stadium for the first time since May 15.

Storms delayed kick-off but it did not dampen Dallas spirits with a Jermaine Taylor own-goal and Fabian Castillo’s effort securing victory.

The weather also played a part as Philadelphia Union and Montreal Impact played out an entertaining 2-2 draw, with Eric Ayuk Mbu giving Union the lead before seeing red.

Nemeth has scored 7 goals from 7 shots

Goals from Ignacio Piatti and Jack McInerney put Montreal in front but following Patrice Bernier’s dismissal Maurice Edu levelled.

Real Salt Lake versus Columbus Crew ended 2-2 as Olmes García gave the hosts the lead but Tony Tchani equalised before the interval.

Sebastian Jaime restored Salt Lake’s lead but Ethan Finlay pegged them back again as Real finished with 10 following Jordan Allen’s straight red.

Vancouver Whitecaps reclaimed top spot in the Western Conference after Cristian Techera’s opener and an Octavio Rivero penalty cancelled out Teal Bunbury’s goal for New England Revolution.

Krisztian Nemeth scored his seventh goal to add to a Sam Cronin own-goal as Sporting Kansas City ran out 2-0 winners against Colorado Rapids.

Toronto and D.C. United played out the only 0-0 draw but both remain in the hunt for the Eastern Conference.

Images courtesy of Rich Lam and Kyle Rivas, with thanks

Previews and Predictions: MLS Week 17

The first instalment of MLS Rivalry Week provided some classic games, eye-raising results and confirmation that LA Galaxy are back – they thrashed Portland Timbers 5-0.

With Texas and New York derbies and the bitter Portland-Seattle feud among the grudge matches to look forward to, here are our weekend predictions.

Perez and Co. will be happy to return home

FC Dallas vs Houston Dynamo – Toyota Stadium

The action begins on Friday with the second Texas Derby of the season – Dallas won 4-1 in Houston on May 1, their fifth consecutive win over their arch-rivals in all competitions.

This is Dallas’ first home game since May 15; they’ve taken just two points from five away matches since then, a streak which has seen them fall to sixth in the Western Conference.

However, Dynamo have won just once away from home all season and have not beaten their rivals since June 2012 – this one should be a home banker.

Verdict: 3-1

Toronto FC vs D.C. United – BMO Field

TFC emerged victorious in the 401 Derby against Montreal in midweek as goals from DPs Michael Bradley, Jozy Altidore and Sebastian Giovinco capped a fine attacking performance in a 3-1 victory.

Giovinco scored twice against DC in their 2-1 win earlier in the season and has directly contributed to more goals than any other MLS player in 2015, with eight goals and seven assists.

However, DC are 10 points clear at the top of Eastern Conference and five ahead in the Supporters’ Shield race: a tight affair that should end all square.

Verdict: 1-1

Philadelphia Union vs Montreal Impact – PPL Park

C.J. Sapong continued his rich vein of form in midweek, scoring for the fourth straight game to lead Union to a 1-0 victory over a depleted Seattle Sounders and make it five goals in his last six.

Impact went down 3-1 to an on-song Toronto to leave them still with just one win outside of Quebec in the league this season.

The visiting franchise has never won when these two sides have met and with both teams in inconsistent form, Philadelphia’s home advantage could decide this one.

Verdict: 2-1

New England Revolution vs Vancouver Whitecaps – Gillette Stadium

Jones is missing the game vs Vancouver with a hernia injury

Revolution’s 2-1 loss in Columbus saw the gap between themselves and D.C. United at the top of Eastern Conference to widen even further and they have now won just one of their last nine.

Whitecaps recorded a second impressive away victory in a row at NY Red Bulls last Saturday as David Ousted became the third MLS goalkeeper to save two penalties in one game.

The continued absence of US international Jermaine Jones is a huge blow for Revolution, and we’re backing Whitecaps to move clear as Western leaders with a win.

Verdict: 0-1

Sporting Kansas City vs Colorado Rapids – Sporting Park

Sporting KC’s  seven-match league unbeaten run was ended last time out despite Benny Feilhaber’s eighth assist of the season setting up Dom Dwyer’s fifth goal of 2015.

Colorado surrendered in the second half to lose 2-0 in Orlando in midweek and remain rooted to the bottom of the Western Conference with no win from their last five.

Sporting have not lost to the Rapids since March 2009 and haven’t been beaten by them in Kansas City in 13 years – surely there can only be one winner.

Verdict: 2-0

Real Salt Lake vs Columbus Crew – Rio Tinto Stadium

RSL will have to do without Demar Phillips and joint-top scorer Javier Morales after both were sent off in the 1-0 defeat to New York Red Bulls earlier this week.

MLS’ top scorer Kei Kamara has his best-ever season tally less than halfway through the current campaign after taking his tally to 12 in Crew’s 2-1 victory over New England Revolution.

However, Crew have scored just four of their 23 goals this season away from home and that win was their first in seven games – both teams could cancel each other out.

Verdict: 1-1

Galaxy have returned to top form in the past 10 days

San Jose Earthquakes vs LA Galaxy – Stanford Stadium

Earthquakes head into the first California Clasico of the season on the back of their first win in four games, DP Matias Perez Garcia inspiring them to a 2-0 win over Seattle Sounders last weekend.

Galaxy moved to within a point of the Western Conference summit by thrashing Portland and it’s difficult to know what do when Bruce Arena’s side hit top form.

The MLS Cup haven’t won any of their nine away matches in 2015, but their free-scoring form suggests we can rip up the formbook on this occasion.

Verdict: 1-3

New York City FC vs New York Red Bulls – Yankee Stadium (Live on Sky Sports 1 – Sunday 10pm)

This is the second NY derby in MLS history after Bradley Wright-Phillips’ brace secured a 2-1 home win for Red Bulls on May 10 at Red Bull Arena.

David Villa moved to six goals for the season as his first MLS double led City to a 2-0 win in Toronto on Saturday to extend their winning streak to three.

Red Bulls ended their four-game losing streak on Wednesday night but City’s improved form and the motivation of their first home derby will see them edge this.

Verdict: 1-0

Portland Timbers vs Seattle Sounders – Providence Park (Live on Sky Sports 1 – Monday 12am)

Clint Dempsey won the first meeting of these sides in 2015 but was sent off in the recent 3-1 US Open Cup loss that made it one win a piece.

All eyes will be on this clash after the feisty cup meeting just over a week ago – Portland are the form side despite their heavy defeat to Galaxy, while Seattle are struggling.

Seattle have scored four times on both of their last two trips to Portland but without Clint Dempsey and Obafemi Martins, Portland will edge this fierce rivalry.

Verdict: 2-1

Images courtesy of R.Yeatts, RevolutionCommunications and Bay Area Bias, with thanks.

Stat-Attack: MLS Week 17

As MLS reaches the halfway point in the regular season, here are all the facts and figures you need to know ahead of Week 17.

0 – The away side has never won in MLS matches between Montreal Impact and Philadelphia Union.

Ousted saved two penalties v the Red Bulls

1 – LA Galaxy have won just one of their last ten regular season games in San Jose.

2 – Vancouver’s David Ousted became the third goalkeeper in league history to save two penalties in a game. Bradley Wright-Phillips is the first player ever to miss two in the same MLS match.

3 – Despite topping the Western Conference, Seattle Sounders have lost three of their last four league games.

4 – CJ Sapong has scored in each of the Union’s last four games, a career best run – the striker has scored five in his last six matches.

5 – FC Dallas might be on a six-game winless streak but they have won their previous matches in all competitions against local rivals Houston Dynamo.

7 – New England Revolution striker Charlie Davies has scored more goals this season than in his entire MLS career.

10 – DC United lead the Eastern Conference by ten points, and the Supporters’ Shield race by five points ahead of Week 17.

RSL have 3 more goals than Kamara 

12 – Kei Kamara’s 12 goals for Columbus Crew mean that he has scored as many as Real Salt Lake’s seven highest scorers put together.

13 – Colorado Rapids haven’t won in Kansas City since a 2-1 victory in 2002, 13 years ago.

19 – New York Red Bulls have scored and conceded 19 goals in their 15 games; they have won five, drawn five and lost five in a perfectly symmetrical start.

20 – New York City will go level on points with the Red Bulls, if they can claim a first MLS victory over their local rivals in the second New York derby of the season.

26 – After a stuttering start LA Galaxy are now MLS’ top scorers with 26 goals after scoring ten times in the last two matches.

Finlay has one more assist than Feilhaber

73- Toronto’s three designated players Sebastian Giovinco, Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore have scored 73% of their sides 22 goals this season.

Overall MLS Stats:

Supporters’ Shield Leader: DC United

Most Goals: Kei Kamara (Columbus Crew) – 12

Most Assists: Ethan Finlay (Columbus Crew) – 9

Most Cleansheets: Stefan Frei (Seattle Sounders) – 8

Most Yellow Cards: Andy Dorman (New England Revolution) – 8

Most Red Cards: Jamison Olave (Real Salt Lake) – 2 

Images courtesy of Derek Leung and Jamie Sabau, with thanks.

MLS 360

Robbie Keane inspired LA Galaxy to a 5-0 victory over Portland Timbers which lifted the MLS Cup holders to within one point of first place in the Western Conference.
Former West Ham player Sebastian Lletget scored for the fourth straight game to open the scoring before Keane doubled the lead from the penalty spot.

Keane scored his third goal of the season after injury

The Irishman then assisted Robbie Rogers to score his first in over four years and Juninho who made it 4-0 minutes before Liam Ridgewell was dismissed for kicking Alan Gordon.
Jose Villarreal’s late freekick put the icing on the cake as Portland’s four-match winning streak came to an abrupt halt.

Toronto’s trio of designated players all found the net as they came from behind to beat Montreal Impact 3-1 at BMO Field.
Ambroise Oyongo’s blistering left-foot volley gave Impact the lead but Sebastian Giovinco set up Michael Bradley to level near the half hour mark.
Jozy Altidore gave Toronto the lead on 56 minutes before Giovinco earned a late penalty, which he scored, to seal victory.

Kamara is MLS' top scorer with 12 goals

MLS’ leading scorer, Kei Kamara, helped Columbus Crew end their six-game winless run by scoring twice in a 2-1 comeback win against New England Revolution.
Lee Nguyen side-footed the opener for New England inside the opening minute but Kamara’s 11^th and 12^th goals of the season were enough for Crew to take the points.

Revolution’s defeat allowed DC United to move 10 points clear at the top of the Eastern Conference as Conor Doyle’s 25-yard thunderbolt earned a 1-0 victory over Chicago Fire.

The win also extends DC’s lead in the Supporters’ Shield race as closest rivals Seattle Sounders’ poor form continued against Philadelphia Union.
Seattle’s Stefan Frei saved Maurice Edu’s first-half penalty but CJ Sapong’s fourth goal in as many games was enough to claim a 1-0 win.

Second half strikes from rookie striker Cyle Larin and leading scorer Kaka helped Orlando continue their fine recent form and cruise to a 2-0 home victory over Colorado Rapids.

Real Salt Lake finished with nine men as Javier Morales and Demar Phillips saw red in their 1-0 defeat at New York Red Bulls – Mike Grella scored the winner after four minutes.

Images courtesy of Bay Area Bias and Jamie Sabau, with thanks.

Previews and Predictions: MLS Midweek 17

MLS makes up for the recent stunted international weekend of fixtures with a busy programme this week.
With seven midweek matches including some of the league’s heavyweights and a bitter local derby to get stuck into before the weekend games begin on Friday, here are our midweek predictions.
 

Seattle are struggling without their star duo

Philadelphia Union vs Seattle Sounders – PPL Park
Union must recover from a 5-1 thrashing at LA Galaxy at the weekend, a result which matched the heaviest defeat in their history and cemented their status as the worst defence in MLS in 2015.
In contrast, Sounders’ defence and attack are both the joint-best in the league, although the side suffered their first home MLS defeat since March 14 against San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday.
Union have never lost to Seattle at PPL Park and with Obafemi Martins and Clint Dempsey missing, this record could be preserved against the Western Conference leaders.
Prediction: 1-1
 
New York Red Bulls vs Real Salt Lake – Red Bull Arena
Red Bulls have lost four consecutive games for the first time in five years after a catastrophic 2-1 defeat to Vancouver Whitecap, where top scorer Bradley Wright-Phillips missed two penalties.
RSL won for the first time in four games with a 2-1 victory against Sporting KC at the weekend but MLS’ second-lowest scorers have just five goals from eight away games in 2015.
The Red Bulls have nosedived after going the first seven unbeaten, but despite the absences of Sacha Kljestan and Lloyd Sam we think they will stop the rot here.
Verdict: 2-0
 

Kamara could be the difference for Crew

Columbus Crew vs New England Revolution – MAPFRE Stadium
Crew are without a league win in six games after drawing 1-1 with LA Galaxy on June 13, but they have hit 17 of their 21 goals this year at home.
Revolution remain second in Eastern Conference despite losing 2-1 at D.C. United on Sunday, a result which leaves them with just a single victory in their last nine matches.
Though these sides drew 0-0 at Gillette Stadium in April, the combined 32 games played by these sides in 2015 have seen 88 goals – we could be in for a classic here.
Verdict: 3-2
 
Orlando City vs Colorado Rapids – Citrus Bowl
Despite their first defeat in seven games at Montréal on Saturday, the MLS debutants’ recent good form sees them occupy third place in Eastern Conference.
Colorado are in miserable form with just one win from their last 10 in the league and are comfortably the league’s lowest scorers with a mere 12 goals.
However, the Western Conference bottom side have incredibly conceded just 13 times, only tasting defeat on four occasions, and their miserly resilience could be enough for a point in Orlando.
Verdict: 0-0
 
Toronto FC vs Montreal Impact – BMO Field
These bitter rivals exchanged victories in the two-legged Canadian Championship semi-final last month, with Impact progressing on away goals.
Toronto failed to score in MLS for the first time since March 14 and saw their club record three-match winning streak ended by David Villa and Co. last time out.
Impact have won five of their last seven in the league but have never beaten Toronto at BMO in eight meetings since joining MLS – we’re predicting sparks to fly and the points to be shared.
Verdict: 2-2

Maloney is out of action for Chicago

Chicago Fire vs DC United – Toyota Park
It’s bottom against top in this Eastern Conference clash as these franchises meet for the second time this season. DC won 3-1 when these teams met at RFK Stadium just three weeks ago.
Fire have lost their last three and DP Shaun Maloney is likely to miss at least a fortnight with a back injury.
They will take heart from the fact DC have only scored four times in seven away games this year but United should prove too good for Chicago.
Verdict: 0-2
 
LA Galaxy vs Portland Timbers – StubHub Center
Galaxy have scored 11 goals in their last two competitive matches after a 5-1 win against Philadelphia Union on Saturday and a 6-1 thrashing of amateur side PSA Elite in the U.S. Open Cup.
With their 2-0 win against Houston Dynamo, Timbers set a franchise record of four MLS wins in a row, and they have also recorded three clean sheets in that time.
These sides are level on 25 points and shared a 2-2 draw at Providence Park in March, but with Galaxy almost invincible at home there can surely be only one winner this time.
Verdict: 4-1

Images courtesy of Otto Greule Jr, Jamie Sabau and Thearon W Henderson, with thanks.

Five lessons from MLS Week 16

Week 16 saw DC United return to the top of the MLS standings while LA Galaxy gave a glimpse of their best form but what five lessons have we learnt this week?

Gerrard is set to join up with the Galaxy in the coming days

1) Galaxy shooting for the stars

Despite claiming their sixth win of the season with a 5-1 demolition of Philadelphia Union, Bruce Arena feels there is still room for improvement for LA Galaxy.

Gyasi Zardes starred, grabbing a goal and three assists, in the rout which lifted the MLS Cup holders to fourth in the Western Conference but we have to agree there is more to come.

For a start Steven Gerrard will make his MLS arrival in just over a week while last year’s MVP Robbie Keane is yet to hit top form after a series of injuries.

2) Home is where Dallas’ heart is

FC Dallas ended their five game away stretch with a 1-1 draw at Colorado Rapids but will be glad to return to Texas after slipping to sixth in the Western Conference.

Oscar Pareja’s team scored just twice and took only two points during the five match run, which saw them concede ten goals and keep just one cleansheet.

Despite their poor form, Dallas’ good start means they are just two points off third in the Western Conference and with four home games in five they should return to the top spots.

3) European greats inbound

Frank Lampard follows Gerrard to MLS in just over a week but they could be just the first of several big names to arrive in the league this summer.

Champions League finalist and World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo has been consistently linked with a move to New York City – and a deal could be just days away.

Wondolowski will be looking for redemption at the Gold Cup

Meanwhile former World Player of the Year Ronaldinho is rumoured to have been in talks with the New York Red Bulls about becoming their designated player.

4) Klinsmann’s Golden Oldies

After months of experimentation with his squad in the first half of 2015, USMNT coach Jurgen Klinsmann has decided to put faith in the old guard for this summer’s Gold Cup.

17 of last year’s World Cup squad make the roster including over 30’s Clint Dempsey, Nick Rimando, and Kyle Beckerman – Chris Wondolowski also returns to the squad after that miss in Brazil.

The San Jose hitman scored five times to be the tournament’s joint top scorer as the USA beat Panama to win the 2013 Gold Cup.

5) Set pieces set up Montreal

Montreal Impact failed to score from a single set piece in 2014 as they finished last overall in MLS’ regular season.

However, this season they have already scored three times from set piece situations this time round and subsequently find themselves fifth in the Eastern Conference.

Donny Toia’s headed opener against Orlando set the Impact en route to a fifth win in their last seven games and they have won two of the three games in which they have scored from set pieces.

Images courtesy of Philip Wilson and Ronald Martinez, with thanks.

3 Good, 3 Bad: MLS Week 16

It was a record-breaking week in MLS for both the right and the wrong reasons, as we close in on the midway point of the season.

Porter's side are on a great run

Flying High…

1) Timbers chopping down the opposition

Portland Timbers are in fine form having extended their winning streak to a franchise-record four MLS matches, five in all competitions following their US Open Cup victory. 

 After head coach Caleb Porter challenged his side to improve results, the team have responded magnificently and now sit third in the Western Conference.

A postseason run could well be in the offing and although they do not possess some of the league’s big names they certainly have plenty of team spirit.

2) NYCFC are on the climb

With all the hype surrounding New York City’s introduction into MLS, their early season results had been somewhat disappointing as the squad failed to gel.

But their troubles would appear to be behind them as they have now won three consecutive league matches and are marching up the Eastern Conference.

They will hope the idea that form counts for nothing in a derby will go out of the window as they look to leapfrog the Red Bulls on Sunday.

Nyassi struck against his old team

3) The Earthquakes shake up Seattle again

San Jose have enjoyed their recent trips to the home of the Supporters’ Shield holders and made it two wins from two at CenturyLink Field this season.

Their latest victory means they have won on eight of their last 11 matches against the Pacific Northwest side and was savoured by ex-Sounders Cordell Cato and Sanna Nyassi.

The Earthquakes raise their game against the league’s biggest names so if they make the play-offs they will relish the knockout pressure and be one to avoid.

In the pits…

1) Sounders struggle without star names

Seattle’s only home defeats this season have come against San Jose and it never helps to have your big players missing when your bogey team are in town.

With Clint Dempsey suspended following his bizarre outburst at a referee and fellow DP’s Obafemi Martins and Osvaldo Alonso both missing, Sounders came up short.

They continued to create chances and had 12 shots on goal but lacked their usually potent frontmen to add the finishing touch which is a worrying sign.

2) Bradley Wrong, Wrong, Wrong!

Last season’s Golden Boot winner, who netted 27 goals in 32 regular season matches, has picked up one record that he didn’t want as Red Bulls slumped to defeat.

Wright-Phillips has an unwanted record

The New York side’s cause was not helped when Sacha Kljestan was given his marching orders early on but the match hinged on two missed penalties.

Wright-Phillips has become the first player in MLS history to miss two spot kicks in one match – but did get a hug from his manager as he was substituted. 

3) Philadelphia sinking lower and lower

Philadelphia Union were impressive for the first 20 minutes against LA Galaxy but that could not stop them succumbing to an embarrassing 5-1 defeat.

The five goals conceded matched a franchise record and extended their poor record on the road to just one win in their last nine matches.

The biggest concern will be the fact that they shipped plenty of goals again and being the league’s leakiest defence is a title no side wants.

Images courtesy of Steve Dykes, Thearon W. Henderson and Jeff Zelevansky, with thanks.

Team of the Week: MLS Week 16

We were back to a full complement of league action this weekend, so here are the 11 players we’ve selected as our latest MLS All-Stars.

Goalkeeper – David Ousted (Vancouver Whitecaps)

After saving two penalties in one match, how could we leave him out? Ousted became only the third keeper in MLS history to achieve the impressive feat.

Villafana was key at both ends for Timbers

He also made sure his side took home all three points with a brilliant stop to deny debutant Manolo Sanchez’s well struck effort in the dying minutes.

Right Back – Jorge Villafana (Portland Timbers)

Portland racked up another cleansheet as they made it four MLS wins on the spin and Villafana was vital at both ends in the win over Houston Dynamo.

The full back delivered a perfect free-kick for Maximiliano Urruti to head home before he was sent tumbling in the box and the resulting penalty confirmed the win. 

Centre Back – Shay Facey (New York City)

The on-loan Manchester City youngster has adapted to life in MLS very quickly and was the standout defender as Jason Kreis got his tactics spot on against Toronto.           

The NYCFC players got through an incredible amount of work and put in what can only be described as a ‘physical’ display, with Facey epitomising it more than anyone.

Centre Back – Laurent Ciman (Montreal Impact)

The defender was flawless in denying an Orlando City frontline that were beginning to build up some momentum, as Montreal kept only their second clean sheet this season.

The lively Cyle Larin did cause the Impact backline some problems but Ciman was composed on the ball and aggressive in his defending – a superb display.

Left Back – Drew Moore (Colorado Rapids)

Ordinarily a centre back, the Colorado captain deputised at full back and took charge of a defence that restricted FC Dallas to very few chances.

Serna impressed on his return for Rapids

He has had limited game time this season but after an assured performance he may force his way back into the first team picture sooner rather than later.

Right Midfield – Dillon Serna (Colorado Rapids)

Goals have been hard to come by for the Rapids all season, hence why they have only won twice, and Serna was certainly their attacking spark this week.

Making his first start since the season opener, he was clearly looking to make an impression and after hitting a late equaliser he’ll hope for a run of games.

Centre Midfield – Baggio Husidic (LA Galaxy)

After a slow opening 20 minutes the MLS Cup holders dismantled a poor Philadelphia Union and it was Husidic that got them on their way.

He reacted first when Zardes’ shot came off the upright and created two goals for his teammates as he orchestrated the display, much like a certain Steven Gerrard enjoys to.

Centre Midfield – Chris Rolfe (D.C. United)

The ever-dependable Rolfe struck twice, as United returned to the top of the Supporters’ Shield standings, after Chris Tierney blocked his first chance on the line.

He would not be denied the equaliser a second time as he fired in a ferocious volley before completing the comeback, firing a penalty into the bottom corner.

Left Midfield – Matias Perez Garcia (San Jose Earthquakes)

The attacking midfielder was the catalyst for San Jose’s win at the home of the Seattle Sounders, setting up the first and scoring the second in the 2-0 victory.

His pinpoint pass found an unmarked Sanna Nyassi midway through the first half and he then danced through the Sounders’ backline before finding the top corner – excellent individual goal.

Zardes showed his undoubted potential again

Striker – Gyasi Zardes (LA Galaxy)

The young forward was partnered with Robbie Keane for the first time since early April and it certainly made a difference as Galaxy ran riot against Philadelphia. 

Zardes was involved in everything good for LA and racked up two assists as well as grabbing his fourth of the season – a reminder of what a prospect he is. 

Striker – David Villa (New York City)

After an underwhelming start to life in MLS, the former Barcelona man has found his feet in recent weeks and has been pivotal in NYCFC’s resurgence.

He added two more goals to his tally as he calmly dispatched from the penalty spot, before being in the right place to turn home Mehdi Ballouchy’s centre.

Images courtesy of Richard Lam, Victor Decolongon and Shaun Clark, with thanks.

Bristol to Seattle: college soccer in action

For generations young British footballers have faced the choice between pursuing the sport they love or continuing their education.

At 18 years of age Andy Rose opted to leave Bristol City’s academy, move to Los Angeles and attempt both – it was a decision he now calls the best of his life.

Seven years after starting at the University of California (UCLA), Rose is in his fourth season with Major League Soccer side Seattle Sounders playing alongside Clint Dempsey and Obafemi Martins.  

Rose lived in Bristol before starting college in Los Angeles

One of five Englishmen in MLS to have come through college soccer, Rose revealed he has his sister to thank for a move that reshaped his career in football.
“My decision to look in to college soccer in the States came about from my sister, who was playing tennis at Northwestern University in Chicago,” explains Rose.

“I was doing well with Bristol City but I didn’t think I was ready to be a pro at 18 and the top tier players from our academy weren’t getting much of a look in with the first team.

“College soccer gives you up to four years to develop your game and can come very close to a professional environment depending on the programme.”

Before deciding to leave Rose, a holding midfielder, had captained Bristol City’s academy side at under-16 and under-18 level, and enjoyed success in the FA Youth Cup.

His side made the fifth round twice, beating Everton at Goodison Park and Leeds United along the way.

Despite this Rose knew time was running out to make his mark in English football and joining a college soccer programme stood out as his best option.

“In England you really need to break through between 18 and 21, and if you’re not good enough then you’re not good enough,” said the 25-year-old.

“By playing in the USA, you can continue your education through those years and keep developing your game in a pretty stable environment.

“UCLA was an easy choice for me. The possibility of living in Los Angeles for a few years while playing for a programme with a great history of producing top players was far too good to pass up.”

Premier League star Friedel began his career with UCLA

By joining UCLA’s soccer programme Rose was following in the footsteps of ex-Fulham captain Carlos Bocanegra, Brad Friedel and his Seattle Sounders’ teammate Chad Barrett.

The Bristolian quickly adapted to his new lifestyle, being named UCLA’s Rookie of the Year in 2008 before becoming the Bruin’s captain in his third year.

In four years, Rose scored five goals and made 11 assists in 81 appearances for the Bruins and the midfielder has only positive memories of his time in California.

“Captaining UCLA will always be something I’ll be proud of: We had a great record throughout my four years that almost culminated in a national championship,” added Rose.

“I owe Jorge Salcedo, my coach, a lot for bringing me over to the States and giving me such an incredible opportunity.

“His record for producing players that go on to the next level speaks for itself. I was gutted we couldn’t give him a national championship during my time.”

Rose came close in his fourth and final year as UCLA lost their NCAA semi-final on penalties to the University of North Carolina, who went on to win the championship.

In the same 2011 season the Englishman was named the university’s most valuable player after leading the Bruins to a third regional conference title in four years.

Rose felt he had done enough to gain the interest of MLS clubs, but had to wait until the Supplementary Draft before being picked up by two clubs in just two hours.

“I was initially drafted to Real Salt Lake and was excited for any chance to go to an MLS side to be honest,” explains Rose. “About two hours later I got the phone call and had been traded to Seattle.

“I was ecstatic – I had trained with the Sounders for a week after my second year in college and loved everything about the club.

“Being part of a club that is always challenging for the Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup has been an incredible experience.”

US captain Michael Bradley has played in England & Germany

Last year Rose played his part as the Sounders won the Supporters’ Shield and Lamar Hunt US Open Cup in his third season at the club.

A feat made more impressive by MLS’s rapid improvement in recent years; something that the Seattle midfielder is keen to highlight.

“Even in my four years in the league I think you see more world class players wanting to come, and some are starting to come earlier in their careers,” added the 25-year-old.

“The likes of Obafemi Martins, US captain Michael Bradley and Sebastian Giovinco would have lots of offers from top leagues around the world but they choose to come to MLS.”

It’s not just on the pitch that the league has improved – interest in MLS is on the rise in the States and in Britain.

“Americans in general are getting much more into it because of the national team’s success at the past two World Cups,” said Rose.

“It’s easy to see here in Seattle because we get over 40,000 at every home match, it’s a great time to be in the league.”

“Hopefully it will gain more followers when Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard come in the summer.”

The arrival of two of English football’s star names will only add to a large group of English talent already in the league.

Englishman Dwyer (centre) reignited his career in the US

Bradley Wright-Phillips scored 27 times to claim the MLS Golden Boot last year, while Dom Dwyer, another Brit who played college soccer, scored 22 times for Sporting Kansas City.

“Dom’s career has really taken off here and he is now one of the top strikers in the league after going through the collegiate system,” added the Supporters’ Shield holder.

“There are a lot of good English players in the league – Giles Barnes is having a great season in Houston, Luke Mulholland in Salt Lake, Liam Ridgewell and Nigel Reo-Coker to name a few.”

Rose is reaping the rewards of his decision to move Stateside – his Seattle side currently top the league’s Western Conference and are well placed to chase further success in 2015.

With MLS set to add another four teams by 2020 Rose wants to urge young players to seriously consider a move into the US college system.

“I think lots of young English players can come over to the States and have an incredible experience, which will keep them in the game at a decent level,” said Rose.

“Getting an education was important for me as something to fall back on and I think it’s something to really consider – although it was hard work I’m glad I have a degree now.

“If you develop your game in the right ways then you can always go back to England, that door isn’t closed as soon as you leave for America.”

After leaving these shores in 2008, Rose hasn’t ruled out a return home, but like then the opportunity would have to be right.

“Playing in England again would be fantastic and it would be nice to be close to my family again but leaving here would be difficult,” added Rose, who received his US green card in 2013.

“It all depends on what opportunities come up in the future.”

Images courtesy of Seattle Sounders FC via YouTube, Dagur Brynjolfsson, Amil Delic and Brent Flanders, with thanks.

MLS 360

Bradley Wright-Phillips became the first player in MLS history to miss two penalties in one match as ten-man New York Red Bulls lost 2-1 to Vancouver Whitecaps.

David Ousted saved the striker’s early penalty before Sacha Kljestan saw red for violent conduct and Kekuta Manneh gave Vancouver the lead inside 15 minutes.

Zardes scored and made three assists

Wright-Phillips had the chance to level from the spot but was again denied by Ousted allowing 19-year-old Kianz Froese to double the Whitecaps’ lead.

Half-time substitute Anatole Abang impressed for New York but his late volley proved to be no more than a consolation for the home side.

LA Galaxy jump to fourth in the Western Conference after Gyasi Zardes inspired a 5-1 demolition of Philadelphia Union.

The US striker assisted Baggio Husidic and Juninho to make it 2-0 at half time before adding the third with a close range volley.

CJ Sapong pulled one back for Union but Stefan Ishizaki and Sebastian Lletget, again assisted by Zardes, put the game beyond the visitors.

DC United came from behind to beat New England Revolution 2-1 in their top-of-the-table clash in the Eastern Conference.

Charlie Davies put New England ahead against his old club but Chris Rolfe struck twice, the second from the penalty spot, to claim the points.

DC regained the Supporters’ Shield lead after Sanna Nyassi and Matias Perez Garcia both found the top corner to give San Jose Earthquakes a 2-0 win at Seattle Sounders.

Villa has scored eight goals in MLS 2015

David Villa scored twice as New York City made it three straight wins with an impressive 2-0 away victory in Toronto.

Olmes Garcia’s stoppage-time effort deflected in off defender Kevin Ellis to give Real Salt Lake a 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City after Dominic Dwyer cancelled out a Sebastian Jaime header.

Maximiliano Urruti’s header and a Gaston Fernandez penalty helped Portland Timbers make it four straight wins courtesy of a 2-0 victory over Houston Dynamo.

Colorado Rapids and FC Dallas drew 1-1; Fabian Castillo gave Dallas the lead but Dillon Serna volleyed Colorado level with two minutes to go.

Montreal Impact ended Orlando’s unbeaten run as Donny Toia’s first MLS goal and Dominic Oduro’s stoppage-time strike earned a 2-0 victory.

Images courtesy of Victor Decolongon and Elsa, with thanks.

Previews and Predictions: MLS Week 16

After three MLS sides crashed out of the US Open Cup at the first hurdle this week, attention returns to league matters with a packed schedule in Week 16.

Perez' Dallas are struggling for form in the West

Here are our MLS predictions...

Colorado Rapids v FC Dallas – Dick’s Sporting Goods Park

Dallas have won three of the last five meetings between the two sides but have only taken one point from their two previous fixtures with Colorado this season.

In the first meeting this year, the Rapids kick-started their campaign by scoring their first goals of the season during a dominant 4-0 victory in Dallas.

We are backing Dallas to better this time round, and end their 283-minute goal drought, but their winless run will stretch to six games.

Verdict: 1-1

Seattle Sounders v San Jose Earthquakes – Century Link Field

Seattle’s cup defeat in midweek not only ended their hopes of a treble but also sees them depleted this weekend with three players seeing red against Portland Timbers.

Clint Dempsey could be looking at a lengthy ban for tearing up the referee’s notebook and Obafemi Martins was stretchered off as his injury woes continued.

San Jose have already won in Seattle in 2015 and we are backing them to make it back-to-back road victories over the Sounders for the first time since 2012.

Verdict: 1-2

New York Red Bulls v Vancouver Whitecaps – Red Bull Arena

Both teams have struggled for consistency since topping their respective conferences in the early stages of the season.

Octavio Rivero has failed to maintain his explosive entry into MLS as Vancouver have lost three of their last six while Bradley Wright-Phillips is finding goals harder to come by without Thierry Henry.

New York have just one win in their last eight and we can’t see that changing but they should have enough at home to take a point from the Whitecaps.

Verdict: 1-1

Giovinco is proving too hot to handle

Toronto FC v New York City – BMO Field

Toronto have won three in a row, are unbeaten in four games and have Sebastian Giovinco...there can only be one winner here.

The Italian has scored seven and assisted five goals in his last nine games for Toronto – he has almost single-handedly lifted them to fourth in the Western Conference.

New York City and David Villa have improved to win their last two in a row but a trip to BMO Field should prove too much for them at this stage of their MLS development.

Verdict: 2-0

Montreal Impact v Orlando City

Montreal can move into the play-off spots this week with victory at home to Orlando City and despite losing to New York City last weekend they are playing well.

Ignacio Piatti, who scored in their 2-2 draw with Orlando earlier this year, has led the way and they should have enough to see off the expansion side at home.

Orlando come in to the game after claiming back-to-back MLS wins for the first time and they will be delighted to sit fourth but their five-game unbeaten run should end in Montreal.

Verdict: 1-0

LA Galaxy v Philadelphia Union – StubHub Center

Since winning the MLS Cup, Galaxy have stumbled from one mishap to another in 2015 but they are still in the play-off places in the Western Conference.

Philadelphia have lost five of their seven all-time meetings with MLS’ sleeping giants and they meet Bruce Arena’s team at a bad time after their 6-1 US Open Cup victory in midweek.

Expect that win to have reinvigorated a team that have to come good sooner or later, and Union could be the unlucky recipients of LA’s first big win of the season.

Verdict: 3-0

Adi scored twice in Portland's record third straight MLS victory

Portland Timbers v Houston Dynamo – Providence Park

Dynamo were resounding victors when the sides met in Texas earlier this year but Portland are currently in the midst of their best run in MLS history.

Victory over New England saw them record three straight league wins for the first time and they have reserved their best performances for home games in 2015.

Just two points separate the sides, and we expect a tough game, but the Timbers will edge it and make it four from four.

Verdict: 2-1

DC United v New England Revolution – RFK Stadium

When first meets second you would expect a high quality affair but both these sides have struggled in recent weeks – between them they have just three wins in 12 matches.

DC have lost their last two while the Revolution ended a six-game winless streak last time out and are seriously struggling without Jermaine Jones.

New England boast the best attack in the Eastern Conference but United have the best defence, conceding less than a goal per game on average, and will take all three points.

Verdict: 2-0

Real Salt Lake v Sporting Kansas City – Rio Tinto Stadium

There have only been two goals scored in the last three meetings between these two teams, and none in the previous two games.

However, Kansas are unbeaten in seven games, a run which has seen them surge to third place in the Western Conference, and are brimming with confidence.

Meanwhile RSL are languishing in ninth; their big problem is goals – they have scored just 13 in 15 games – and an in-form Sporting KC team will surely score.

Verdict: 1-3

Images courtesy of R.Yeatts, Jamie Sabau and Jeff Gross, with thanks.