April 2008 Archives

April 2008 Archives

Remembering Gordon Bradley: Kevin Payne

04/30/2008 5:54 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Yesterday, we received the sad news that Gordon Bradley had passed away at the age of 74 years. The Englishman had been involved in soccer in the U.S. in some fashion for the last 35 years and was unquestionably one of the most influential soccer figures in both the U.S. and D.C. area. In the 70's, he served as the head coach for the New York Cosmos during the Pele years and then the Washington Dips when Johan Cruyff was on the team. Following, he served as George Mason Men's Head Soccer coach from 1985-2000 and was also a color commentator for United. He was inducted into the U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame in 1996.

His impact on U.S. soccer was profound and many have mentioned to us their memories and impressions of a man who was often described as a gentlemen. A few members of the United family have expressed their desire to honor Gordon Bradley. We'll be using Behind the Badge as a forum for those memories.

Our team President & CEO Kevin Payne shares his thoughts:

I was deeply saddened to learn of Gordon Bradley's passing. I first met Gordon in the late 80's when I was at the United States Soccer Federation, and from the first time I met him felt like I'd known him forever. He was one of those people whose love for our game was so strong that it shone through, no matter what the circumstances.

I can remember talking with Gordon, especially on the road (over a couple cold ones!) early in our first season in 1996, when things were not going quite as we'd planned. He was so calm and reassuring -- he kept telling me and Bruce that everything was going to be fine, that we had good players, and all they needed was time. Bruce and I would laugh and hope that Gordon was right -- and, as was so often the case when it came to soccer, he was!

Gordon used to talk about growing up a "Geordie" in England, and would tell stories about the recruiting techniques the local clubs would use to get players. He said, "they would call down the mine-shaft -- 'We need a number 4!' -- and the fella who played that position would hop on the lift and head up to the surface." And then he would laugh at how far he'd come from those days when the choices were spending the day (or night) hacking away at the face of a coal mine, or playing the game he loved, for a pittance.

Gordon always thought it remarkable that from that beginning he would go on to coach Pele, Franz Beckenbauer, and Johann Cruyff -- arguably the three greatest soccer players ever. Gordon accomplished many other things in his career, and influenced thousands of people in the game, but that is one accomplishment that no one else can lay claim to.

Gordon was a lovely man -- a real gentleman in every way -- and he will be greatly missed by the entire soccer family. My family and I are thinking of Gordon's family and will remember them in our prayers.

In association with George Mason, the family has created the Gordon Bradley Scholarship Endowment. To contribute, call 703-993-3215. Feel free to share your memories or thoughts about Gordon Bradley in the comments.

0 Comments

Kevin Payne, Remembering Gordon Bradley

Gallardo wins! Gallardo wins!

04/30/2008 5:12 PM by Kyle Sheldon

It was a battle to the end, but Marcelo Gallardo's goal was voted as the Sierra Mist Goal of the Week, narrowly beating Amado Guevara's strike. I've probably watched this particular goal more over the last few days than I have any other over the last four years. Incredible. Here it is again for your viewing pleasure.

6 Comments

Awards, Marcelo Gallardo

Want to own a piece of United history?

04/30/2008 4:54 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Do you like D.C. United? I mean, do you really like D.C. United? Do you know someone who does? If so, this post is for you. D.C. United's Man of the Match auctions are back in full swing and you've got a chance to own a game-worn and autographed jersey. Not familiar with the Man of the Match auctions? After every game, fans can vote for their Man of the Match over at dcunited.com. The winner of that poll then signs the jersey he wore in the game and it is put up for auction, with all proceeds going to the club's non-profit arm, United for D.C.

So, not only are you getting a sweet piece of memorabilia, you're also helping a great organization.

Currently up for bid (but, ending soon!):

Santino Quaranta's jersey from TFC game on 4/5
Devon McTavish's jersey from Real Salt Lake game on 4/12.
Luciano Emilio's jersey from Crew game on 4/17

Get 'em while you still can. These auctions end over the next two days.

0 Comments

Auctions

Remembering Gordon Bradley: Tony Limarzi

04/30/2008 8:52 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Gordon Bradley – Rest in Peace

The first time I was a part of a live, on-air soccer broadcast was the Men's Soccer Qualifying for the 2000 Olympics in Hershey, Pennsylvania. I was a sideline reporter for the CONCACAF tournament, and Dave Johnson and Gordon Bradley were calling the action from up in the broadcast booth. It was a pleasure to work with Gordon, and I was fortunate to share my debut with someone so knowledgeable and generous.

We drove back and forth from D.C. to Hershey every day of the week-long tournament, and we talked about soccer the entire time. His knowledge and passion for the game were obvious throughout our conversations, and his analytical mind showed how seriously he took his craft as a color man. Even though Gordon had about 40 more years of experience than I did, he never made me feel like I was a rookie or that my ideas were inferior to his. I never knew first-hand, but that's the way Gordon must have been as a teammate or a coach. I remember one conversation we had about his playing days. He said, "I don't know why it was, but I always seemed to be the team captain, or sort of the coach on the field." He didn't exactly say it, but my interpretation of his very humble message was the following. Gordon was a leader his entire life; when he spoke, people listened.

It was an honor to be a part of those broadcasts, but my favorite memory of Gordon Bradley comes from years earlier as a D.C. United fan in 1996. Everybody remembers the match United played in the hurricane at R.F.K. Stadium against the Tampa Bay Mutiny. I was at the game, so I didn't listen to his TV broadcast on HTS, but the game was on the following day. At that time I listened to the opening segment when Dave and Gordon were highlighting Marco Etcheverry. They went through the normal points- he's a great assist man, so dangerous in the box, magical left foot, etc. The final thought that Gordon had at that time was something that for some reason I have never forgotten. About the upcoming game he said, "Marco Etcheverry will not disappoint." True enough. The game-winning goal late in the second half was possibly the turning point in the history of D.C. United. Maybe Gordon saw it coming all along.

Gordon was a pioneer of soccer broadcasting in Washington D.C. He and Dave Johnson set the bar very high in 1996. It's fitting that the best franchise in MLS has always had the best broadcasters in MLS. As for the rest of us who follow in his footsteps, we know we have big boots to fill. Gordon will live on forever at R.F.K. Stadium as a member of the Washington Hall of Stars, and whenever D.C. United moves into their new stadium, his presence will be felt there too.

3 Comments

Remembering Gordon Bradley

Doe ready to go

04/29/2008 4:50 PM by Kyle Sheldon

United General Manager Dave Kasper informed us today that Francis Doe has received his P-1 Visa and is now eligible to play. The forward, who was signed by United on April 22, will be available for selection at Sunday's game in Colorado, should the coaches choose to take him along.

For more info on Doe, click here.

3 Comments

Francis Doe, News

Hello, from Devon McTavish

04/29/2008 3:11 PM by Kyle Sheldon

The following was written by Mr. Devon McTavish, D.C. United's defender.. er, midfielder. -Kyle

So, it was back to work today for us at the RFK practice facility - well, some of us at least. Others are still trying to get back from rolling their ankle against Columbus almost two weeks ago. Yeah, that'd be me. Since I'm not practicing today, they're making me earn my paycheck by working up in the front office. I've been copying papers, getting coffee for the interns, mundane things like that all morning. This is what always happens when I get injured. I mean, management told me it's in our contracts, so I'm sure they wouldn't lie about that right? Maybe I should check on that...

Anyway, since I've finished all my chores up here in the office I get to head down to the locker room to rehab my ankle. It's much better, thanks for asking, and it shouldn't be too long before I'm back out on the field trying to learn how to finish like Gallardo does! Are you kidding me with his full volley upper corner goal Saturday night?! GOOD GOSH! Have a great day!

-Devon (dieciocho)

3 Comments

Devon McTavish

Access United: DCU vs. RSL post-game

04/29/2008 11:23 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Access United is your behind-the-scenes look at all things D.C. United. The newest edition includes some great footage from the sidelines of the team's 4-1 win over Salt Lake on Saturday, as well as locker room quotes from Jaime Moreno, Marc Burch, Santino Quaranta and Head Coach Tom Soehn. All past episodes of Access United can be found right here.

2 Comments

Access United, Video

Reserve game cancelled

04/28/2008 3:02 PM by Doug Hicks

Due to heavy rains that have hit the area and flooded United's training field, the reserve game against Crystal Palace F.C. USA, previously scheduled for tomorrow, has been cancelled. Given that the reserves schedule becomes more hectic in coming weeks, it is unlikely the game be re-scheduled.

Today was a mild day for the Black-and-Red. Several of the players that played 90 minutes Saturday night were given an extra day away, but the others and those battling knocks were in for a normal work day. All players will be back at it tomorrow in advance of Sunday's game in Colorado.

Have we mentioned that you should vote for Marcelo Gallardo's strike as MLS Goal of the Week?

0 Comments

Reserves

¡Vote Marcelo!

04/28/2008 12:56 PM by Kyle Sheldon

I really like Santino Quaranta. Great guy. Great player. He scored a great goal on Saturday. But, unfortunately, his teammate Marcelo Gallardo scored one of the best goals you'll see in MLS this year. They're both up for Sierra Mist Goal of the Week, but I'm asking you to vote for Señor Gallardo's 80th minute strike.

This vote serves as a sort of challenge to United fans everywhere, because Amado Guevara scored a pretty nice goal for Toronto, as well, and as we know Toronto fans are crazy - they'll vote for one of their players until their fingers fall off, even if that player's goal came from a much-easier-to-strike standing ball.

Vote often and vote early. Now.

1 Comments

Marcelo Gallardo

What's the deal with...

04/28/2008 11:33 AM by Doug Hicks

Despite the rain, United is on cloud nine after Saturday night's big win. Seems like the perfect day to debut one of our new features, "What's the deal with..." Each week, BehindTheBadge.com will take time to address some of the most pressing questions on the collective minds of our fans.

Without adieu, I give you "What's the deal with...Thomas Rongen's bow tie?" Beginning this season, Comcast SportsNet color analyst has begun wearing a red bow tie. In a move not to be outdone by hockey's infamous Don Cherry or basketballs Craig Sager, the flashy neckwear is a hit among MLS enthusiasts, to be sure.

Here's what Rongen told us:

btb.com: "So tell us, what's the deal with your red bow tie?"

Rongen: "I'm bleeding the Black-and-Red. In all seriousness, color is so important to soccer. It symbolizes the passion of the game and best shows support of a team. In my native Holland, the orange says it all. With my bow tie, I'm making a statement of my support for this club. The real reason for the bow tie, though, is my inability to tie a tie proper. You'd think that, at my age, I could create a reasonable knot. Since I can't, a clip-on bow tie has proven to be very handy."

btb.com: "How does the wife feel about it?"

Rongen: "She thinks it's crap. She watched the game in high definition, though, on Saturday night and saw it in a new light. It seems that the tie takes the focus away from my face."

btb.com: "Have you received any feedback from members of your U-20 team?"

Rongen: "Not really. (former United midfielder) Bryan Arguez texted me recently after seeing me on tv. He said that I looked like the 'Dean of Coaches.'

I'll probably break the tie out, though, during one of our upcoming trips. I'm sure it won't go over well."

btb.com: "Any chance we'll see the tie outside of game days?"

Rongen: "Absolutely not!"

That does it for "What's the deal..." If you have any burning questions you'd like the crack staff at BehindTheBadge.com to investigate, drop them in the comments below.

3 Comments

What's the Deal?

Photo of the Day: Ben Olsen golfs

04/27/2008 5:35 PM by Kyle Sheldon

This is a shot of Ben being Ben from last year's Celebrity Golf Tournament. The club and its non-profit arm, United for D.C., have put on the annual event for each of the past six years and will continue the golf tournament this summer at Old Hickory Golf Club in Woodbridge, VA. The big day is Monday, June 23, so take a vacation day or call in sick - just make sure you get there. This is one of the best chances you'll have to get up close and personal with United's players and coaches.

For full information on the tourney - or to register - click here.

2 Comments

Ben Olsen, United for D.C.

Gallardo's goal

04/27/2008 4:26 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Here it is, all by itself.. the degree of difficulty on this goal is ridiculous. Striking a ball on a full volley from that angle on a cross dropping straight down with a defender shielding your view - that's pretty good. After the game, Gallardo called it one of his top ten goals of all-time. And, now, you know why...

2 Comments

Marcelo Gallardo, Real Salt Lake

DCU 4 - RSL 1 highlights

04/27/2008 11:33 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Here are some highlights from last night's game, courtesy of DCUMD. If you haven't yet seen Gallardo's 80th minute goal, you're in for a treat...

0 Comments

Video

MLS Game #5: DCU 4 - Salt Lake 1

04/26/2008 10:55 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Winning is way better than losing.

What a night. A 4-1 win. Two great penalties from Jaime Moreno. An absolute golazo from Marcelo Gallardo (Goal of the Week?). Gonzalo Martinez with the number 23 shaved into the back of his head. A locker room visit from Gheorghe Muresan (and you thought you were United's biggest fan!). Quavas Kirk in a suit that only he could pull off.

Photos galore on the Video & Pics page (including shots of just about everything mentioned above).

Get your game highlights right here.

United will take tomorrow off with the reserves training Monday, before the entire team reconvenes on Tuesday. The week's practice will see the team prepare for its road trip to Colorado for a Sunday game with the Rapids.

Here are a ridiculous amount of post-game quotes:

D.C. United Head Coach Tom Soehn

On the win: I think it’s important to get the result, but we still have to be hard on ourselves and know that on the day I don’t think the soccer was good enough, especially in the first half. I thought the effort was there, but we still have some things to work on. Winning is a habit, and if you get a result, it’s important for us right now. But building on that we have to continue to do things better.

On the team’s week of practice: It’s been awesome. We haven’t had [practice] since spring training, and as you get in an influx of games there’s guys who now have to get in the mix who haven’t had that much work because of all the games we’ve had. We haven’t had quality sessions and you fall into bad habits, similar to last year. I still look back to last year and it took us a couple of weeks, even though we got results, it took us a couple to get to form, and I felt it was the same tonight. We’re still not where we need to be. We’re going to work darn hard to make sure that we’re going to clean up some of those things.

On Santino Quaranta: His goal was a great finish. I think he still has to manage the game a little bit better and recognize when to take people on, and when to hold it. That’s part of maturity. He’s been great so far, as far as his attitude and his approach to his career, and he’s going to continue to work hard ands we’re going to continue to focus to make sure we’re pointing out what he needs to improve on. Meeting him early this year and having quite a few meetings with him, you can tell his focus and his mentality is totally different than when he was here last time.

On starting Dan Stratford: He’s done a great job in training. It’s always hard for a young kid coming in for the first time especially when the team’s really pushing to get a win. I told him when we took him out to keep his head up, he’s been doing everything great in training and that’s what gets him on the field, and he has to continue to do that. We thought Rod [Dyachenko] would come in and make the soccer better, which we needed, because we weren’t holding the ball enough, and we weren’t getting Jamie [Moreno] and Marcelo [Gallardo] involved in the play enough. It was something we needed to do and I think Rod did a pretty decent job.

On Jamie Moreno as a leader: Jamie leads in so many ways. The ball he sent over to Santino, a lot of guys don’t recognize those passing situations and he just has a maturity about him that makes people around him better. He leads in so many ways, but his play is one of the best ways he can lead.

On Marcelo Gallardo: We talked all week about getting involved in the attack a little bit more and pushing himself a little bit higher, and to his credit he listened, and I thought he got involved a little bit more – he got involved in the attack a little bit more and he scored a goal.

On putting in new players: We’re always going to try and figure out what works best. Every year you have to evaluate what players you have, and figure out what system works best. I don’t think the idea changes how we want to play, but putting guys in spots where you think they’ll be successful is important, so we’ll continue to experiment over the course of the games, whether it’s home or away, and see what works best.

On Rod Dyachenko: We have to learn how to play on a consistent basis, and to do that you have to take on different roles. And how he handles those roles will determine how much time he sees. The one thing to credit him is he’s worked very hard and he’s very fit right now and it’s hard to keep him out at some points because I think he’s impacted the game most every time he came on and changed it. As he continues to do that, you find different qualities in him.

On Fred’s injury: It’s a contusion. Having been through it, it’s something that hurts and it’ll take a few days to get through, but we don’t see anything long term.

D.C. United goalkeeper Zach Wells

On the game: I thought collectively we played a lot better. We appeared to be a cohesive unit. We were a little bit stronger defending, so some things started bouncing our way in the offensive half and we took advantage of our opportunities.

D.C. United defender Marc Burch

On Gallardo’s goal: It was nice, hopefully goal of the week.

On playing in the midfield: I think I was confident with the guys in the back. They were taking care of the forwards, and giving me a little bit of freedom, so I covered when I needed to. Then I got wide and got the ball when I could.

On the team: I think we have a little bit of a different team this year and you have to adjust, but I think today it was a good enough time for me to get forward and get some crosses and get into the attack.

On the result: It’s nice to know we could get back to our style of play. We didn’t look like it the last few games, and I think tonight we started knocking the ball around and we’re dangerous in the attack, and it was nice to put a few away and create some penalties, and that’s a good offense trying to get things done up top.

D.C. United forward Santino Quaranta

On the game: It was a good performance from everybody. I felt we worked hard and it just shows how when we work as a team, we win. It was 11 guys that did well tonight.

D.C. United forward Jamie Moreno

On his penalties: It’s just one of those things. I’m good at it. I’m lucky enough to score that many penalties, and I just have to keep working on it.

On the mindset coming into the game: We knew that we had to win and no matter what and we worked so hard all week to eliminate all the mistakes all the mistakes that we’ve been having and today shows that were going in the right direction. We still have to work on some things, but a win is a win and now we have to go back to work and keep working on the things that we’re still missing, but we’re human and we make mistakes, so that’s always going to happen.

Real Salt Lake goalkeeper Nick Rimando
On the loss: It’s tough – we knew it was going to be tough. It’s a different game, on different grass. They were hungry for a win. It was in the back of their head what we did to them at our house. We knew they were going to come out strong, and try and put it on us.

On the team’s road struggles: We come out, we play good, and we go at them. It looks like its going to be a good game, and then they get a PK. We fall back a little bit and then we start to chase the game. I think every time we start to chase the game we open up. They get chances and then they have opportunities to score. And I don’t think its a 4-1 game; we hit the post.

On Moreno’s two penalties: He makes a living off PKs. I think he’s made 203 career goals off PK’s. No, especially at home I’d say one hundred percent. I just want to guess the right way and at least get a touch. But what are you going to do.

On Moreno’s first penalty: He always makes his PK’s – what are you going to do? I thought he was going to go to one of the sides. That is why he is so good, he doesn’t just go to one side, he goes to the middle.”

Real Salt Lake midfielder Carey Talley

On the loss: It was a bit of a struggle. The two penalties definitely altered the momentum of the game.

On the second penalty given: I think he called [Chris] Wingert for a hold, but that was outside the box. I don’t know once he got inside the box where the foul was, but he fell down. He was given the call – what are you going to do?

On the difficulty to score goals on the road: The first fifteen minutes I think we had a couple of decent opportunities. The ball was crossed in and no one was on the end of it. We didn’t take advantage of those.

Real Salt Lake Head Coach Jason Kreis

On what need to improve: Scoring, results, everything.

On the penalty calls: I think the first penalty was something that some refs call every time, some don’t. And then to give that up after I thought we had done well enough… the second penalty kick, again, some referees would have called, and some wouldn’t have. And that really puts us under there. Before we gave away that I thought we were doing pretty well. To give that up, you are snowed under, especially when you are playing in DC.

On moving forward: We got another game Wednesday night, and a game after that on Saturday. We’ll see how we recover.

5 Comments

Real Salt Lake

MLS Game #5: DCU vs. Salt Lake

04/26/2008 6:20 PM by Kyle Sheldon

With Devon McTavish unable to go today, Head Coach Tom Soehn has decided to go with a 3-5-2 this evening against Salt Lake. The big change is Dan Stratford getting his first MLS start in the midfield next to Clyde Simms. There are also a few new faces on the substitute's bench. Here is how they'll lineup this evening:

Zach Wells; Bryan Namoff, Gonzalo Peralta, Gonzalo Martinez; Santino Quaranta, Clyde Simms, Dan Stratford, Marcelo Gallardo, Fred; Luciano Emilio, Jaime Moreno.

Subs: Jose Carvallo, Ryan Cordeiro, Quavas Kirk, Marc Burch, Rod Dyachenko, Pat Carroll, Franco Niell.

Perhaps the most noteworthy thing from the locker room this evening is Gonzalo Martinez's new hair cut. The Colombian defender now has the number 23 shaved into the back of his head. Hopefully, it shows up on TV because it is tremendous.

1 Comments

Real Salt Lake

MLS Game #5: DCU vs. Real Salt Lake

04/26/2008 10:08 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Game day. Real Salt Lake is in town and the guys seem to be motivated (but, really, how could they not after that 4-0 loss a couple weeks back?). Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at RFK Stadium this evening and crowd of 25,000 is likely. Should be a good one. Here's what you need to get prepared for the game:

Steve Goff writes about Luciano Emilio in his print piece for the Washington Post.
John Haydon says United is primed for a win over at the Washington Times.
Charlie Boehm says United is not only hoping for a win, but for better soccer in his piece at dcunited.com.
Meanwhile, in the west, the Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News with their previews.
Finally, the video quality isn't very good, but here's ten minutes of soccer and United talk from yesterday's Washington Post Live on Comcast SportsNet. TV play-by-play announcer Dave Johnson and the Post's Steve Goff were guests.

If you're coming out to the game today, check out the Gameday Experience page - it has all the info you need of events going on at RFK tonight.

Back with more from RFK later.

0 Comments

News, Real Salt Lake

Reserves vs. Crystal Palace F.C. USA

04/25/2008 10:37 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Next Tuesday, D.C. United's reserves will take on Crystal Palace F.C. USA in a closed-doors scrimmage at the D.C. United Training Complex. After a season-opening 3-2 win over Columbus on April 18, the reserve team does not have its second game until Friday, May 9 - at home versus Chicago.

Crystal Palace USA is a member of the United Soccer League's Second Division and plays their first home game this evening at University of Maryland Baltimore County Stadium against the visiting Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. Want to check it out? Click here for ticket information.

Fans may recognize a couple of the team's players - Ibrahim Kante spent time with the New England Revolution (2003) and also with Major Indoor Soccer League's Milwaukee Wave (2004) and Baltimore Blast (2005-06). Local product Pat Healey was drafted by the Kansas City Wizards in this year's Supplemental Draft after four seasons at Towson University. Idris "Alex" Ugriovhe played in five games (one start) for United's reserve side during the 2006 season, notching a goal.

2 Comments

Reserves

PING-PONG!

04/24/2008 7:05 PM by Kyle Sheldon

In the locker room, one of the more popular activity among players is ping-pong. And really, how can you not like ping-pong? Competing after training today were rookies Ryan Cordeiro and Jeremy Barlow. I can't say I know who ended the day victorious, but Cordeiro was winning while I was watching...

If I had to guess, I'd say you're probably asking yourself the following question: "which United player reigns supreme at the ever-popular game of ping-pong?" Thinking one step ahead of your very own thoughts, I polled a few of the guys to find out.

Me: Who is the best ping-pong player on the team?

Dan Stratford: Pat Carroll, probably [who was standing nearby].

Dane Murphy [also standing nearby], in response: Funny, 'cause I beat him yesterday - worked him.

Strats: Well, I have to dish out that WVU love [PC and Strats were college teammates]. But, actually Namoff is really good.

Me: Jose, how are your ping-pong skills? Who's the best?

Jose Carvallo: I'm not bad, but I'm not perfect. I'd say Jaime, Santino or Marcelo.. maybe Namoff.

Quavas passes. He is obviously dying to answer the question, as well [embellished for dramatic effect].

Me: Hello, Q. How are you?

Q: Ask me! Ask me!

Me: Oh.. what are you doing this weekend?

Q: No! Ask me the ping-pong question!

Me: Oh. Okay. Who do you think is the best ping-pong player on the team?

Q: Namoff and Jaime are really good. 'Tino is pretty good, too.

Me: Your answer was really boring, Q, considering how excited you were.

Q: I know.

One name kept coming up. Namoff. I heard it everywhere I turned.

Me: Who's the best ping-pong player on the team?

McTavish: Namoff.

Me: Who's the best ping-pong player on the team?

Wells: Namoff.

Me: Who's the best ping-pong player on the team?

Santino: Me [okay, not everyone agreed].

Me: Who's the best ping-pong player on the team?

Burch: Namoff.

So, I decided to go to the source.

Me: Yo, Namoff, who's the best ping-pong player on the team?

Namoff: Bryan Namoff.

Me: Really? Third person?

Namoff: Bryan Namoff.

Me: Who else is good?

Namoff: Nobody else.

Me: Seriously?

Namoff: I have yet to find an opponent that requires me to break a sweat.

He seems pretty confident. I've not yet seen him in action, but it seems entirely likely that the Inaugural Behind The Badge Ping-Pong! Tournament will be taking place in the near future. Having never seen any of these guys play-pong, who would you put your money on?

3 Comments

Bloggable

Training update

04/24/2008 4:08 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Today's training session included a scrimmage between the appropriately named Red Team and Yellow Team. The 50-minute match ended in a 0-0 draw and this is how they lined up:

Team Red: Zach Wells; Bryan Namoff, Gonzalo Peralta, Gonzalo Martinez; Santino Quaranta, Dan Stratford, Clyde Simms, Marcelo Gallardo, Fred; Luciano Emilio, Jaime Moreno.

Team Yellow: Jose Carvallo; Jeremy Barlow, Jeff Curtin, Pat Carroll, Marc Burch; Quavas Kirk, Dane Murphy, Rod Dyachenko, Ryan Cordeiro; Franco Niell, Francis Doe.

Devon McTavish did not participate in full training and only biked on the sideline. I've added a few photos from today's session to Video & Pics. Hooray!

The team will train tomorrow in-stadium in advance of Saturday's game with Real Salt Lake. A crowd well over 20,000 is expected, so get your tickets now. Right now.

0 Comments

News, Training

'We're talking about practice'

04/23/2008 4:06 PM by Doug Hicks

Under clear blue skies, United trained this morning in advance of their match this Saturday against Real Salt Lake. A big crowd is expected for the match. You should get your tickets! More about that later, though. For now, with a nod to one-time District resident Allen Iverson, 'We're talking about practice.'

During a typical week-long work week, Wednesday's are the most grueling days. Under the instruction of Tommy Soehn, today was exactly that. The boys, including Gonzalo Peralta, worked for nearly two hours, covering all aspects of their game followed by a conditioning circuit.

The highlight of the day was a spectacular mid-air collision between onrushing forward Franco Niell and goalkeeper Zach Wells that left the latter on the ground gasping for air. After regaining his composure, Wells quipped: "When I lift my shirt later, there's definitely going to be an imprint of a gnome on my chest."

Enjoy the sunshine.

1 Comments

News, Zach Wells

Gallardo in El Grafico

04/22/2008 7:16 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Señor Marcelo Gallardo is featured in the April (abril) issue of one of South America's biggest sports (deportes) magazines (revistas), El Grafico (The Graphic). Gallardo speaks about his love (amor) for River Plate (the first club he ever played for and a team he brought numerous championships), playing for the Argentine National Team, the decision to move to MLS and numerous other things (cosas). The interview (entrevista) was conducted during pre-season in San Antonio, TX (Tejas).

If you want to pick up your a copy, look for the cover to the right - of course the cover had to feature a Boca player. Oops. At least Marcelo doesn't have terrible hair.

You can see the full, scanned article - en español, of course - via Video & Pics. You can also read the full article - also en español at elgrafico.com. Below are a few excerpts, translated for your reading pleasure. You're welcome.

Who nicknamed you “Muñeco” [doll] and why?

I think it was el Chapa Gustavo Zapata and Hernan Diaz who nicknamed me Muñeco. It was around 1992 when I started training with the First Division because I was the smallest one and had a baby face. Muñequito [little doll], Muñeco, they’d say.

What team did you follow as a kid? And today?

I am an unconditional fan of River – as a kid too. My father wanted me to wear a San Lorenzo jersey and took me to many games to become a fan but that ended when I was 11 years old and I started wearing the River jersey.

If you don’t come back as a player, would you come back to coach River?

If I don’t come back as a player, I would come back as a coach at some point, and if not, I’d find some excuse to come back because I will be a part of River for life and you always want to come back, even if it’s to say hi to the equipment manager.

Why did you decide to go to the U.S. instead of coming back to Argentinean soccer? Wouldn’t you like to play [Copa] Libertadores with San Lorenzo?

First, it was an interesting possibility, an opportunity for growth, where one can experience a new living environment. Secondly, not because San Lorenzo’s offer wasn’t good or that I wasn’t interested in playing the Libertadores but because I stopped and thought: I don’t see myself playing with any jersey other than River’s. I didn’t see myself playing in any other club in Argentina. It’s that simple.

How do you see your stint with the National Team? Do you think you brought something to it?

Yes, in a way I think it could have been better but I don’t regret the pride I felt wearing the National Team’s jersey. I got to play in two World Cups, even though unfortunately I wasn’t in optimal conditions. That obviously complicated things a great deal but in time, having spent eight years on the national team and having been in two World Cups, I value that a lot more now because I was part of the 23 players that represented the country. And that, in a country like mine, full of so many talented soccer players, is something that makes me very proud.

Why did you choose the MLS after playing in a very competitive league in France?

What really motivated me was coming to live a new experience in a place where soccer is developing and growing and has an immense growth potential. And here they noticed me as someone who could come and try to lend my knowledge and experience to the team, which flatters me.

Do you think the MLS will ever be an important league like any in Europe?

I’m still learning and seeing what the league has and wants to have. And without a doubt it has potential, if not to compete directly with the most important in the world, at least to become one where players will want to come. In the future it won’t be only Europe but many will want to come play here, without a doubt.

What has surprised you the most about the MLS?

The intensity you play with. From the outside it may not seem like it and you don’t know much about the level of play... but when you see it you realize several things: the athleticism is incredible, this is absolutely true; American players are good athletes. It’s true, they still have to fix some things on the technical and tactical side, but in time it will happen and they will develop their own soccer school. The organization didn’t surprise me because I expected it to be very well organized and they are. Another thing that caught my attention is that you live in a more natural way, without so many things to concentrate on. From that point of view there is more freedom for a player to balance their professional and individual lives.

5 Comments

Marcelo Gallardo, Media

Francis Doe signed

04/22/2008 4:44 PM by Kyle Sheldon

We'll soon announce that Francis Doe has been signed as a senior international. He'll be available for selection following receipt of his P-1 Visa. The forward joined the team on trial last week after being waived by the Red Bulls earlier this year. His professional career includes stops in Greece, Ghana, Cameroon and the United States of America.

An interesting tidbit that we found out from Francis yesterday is that while with Atromitos (Greece) he played in a UEFA Cup game against Spain's Sevilla. He's also played in World Cup and African Cup of Nations qualifiers for his native Liberia.

2 Comments

Francis Doe

Tom Soehn on Fox Football Fone-in tonight

04/21/2008 4:38 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Tonight, D.C. United's Head Coach Tom Soehn will be a guest on Fox Soccer Channel's Fox Football Fone-In program, hosted by Nick Webster and Steven Cohen. The show airs live weekly each Monday. Tommy will be on at 9 p.m. ET.

If you want to ask Tommy a question, you can reach the show by calling 1-866-FOX-FANS (1-800-369-3267) or by emailing fff@foxsoccer.com.

1 Comments

Media

Photo of the Day: Franco's got hops!

04/21/2008 4:20 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Franco Niell is generously listed at 5-feet, 4-inches. The player he's skying over below - Columbus' Ezra Hendrickson - is listed at 6-3. I say again, Franco's got hops! Photo taken by Tony Quinn at last Friday's reserve game, a 3-2 win for the good guys.

5 Comments

Franco Niell

Podcasts!

04/21/2008 12:51 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Which of your five senses is your favorite? If you said "hearing" than this is the post for you. The Screaming Eagles and folks over at UnitedMania.com both have new audio podcasts up and ready for your listening pleasure.

The UnitedMania podcast airs live every Sunday evening at 7 p.m. (ET) over at UnitedMania.com and all past episodes can be accessed here (you can subscribe via iTunes, too). The most recent episode includes John Haydon of the Washington Times and Beau Dure of USA Today as guests. Give it a listen.

The Screaming Eagles podcast is hosted by one David S. Lifton (Mr. Booked For Dissent) and usually airs within a day after each United game. The newest edition includes post-game quotes from Tom Soehn, Marcelo Gallardo and Zach Wells following the loss to Columbus last Thursday. Check it out right here.

3 Comments

Media

Gordon Bradley

04/21/2008 11:23 AM by Doug Hicks

Long-time United fans will remember Gordon Bradley's work as a color analyst for games on Home Team Sports (now Comcast SportsNet). After a lengthy period in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease, Gordon was admitted to Prince William Hospital on March 10, spending six days there due to complications with his ongoing battle with this disease. He has since been moved to a full care facility in Manassas which has a specialized Alzheimer’s wing and is now under hospice care. As you may know, this is a difficult and painful journey for all involved.

I e-mailed with Gordon's son Paul recently, who shared some insight into Gordon's struggles. He writes: "Unless someone has first hand knowledge of this disease, they will be hard pressed to cope with the cruelty and ugliness of how this has devastated Gordon." Paul and Gordon's wife, Vera, often sit with Gordon and tell him stories from the past and would love any notes or stories that United fans may want to share with Gordon. For those that would like to send a note, please forward to Paul at paul@marqueerealestate.com.Those who may want to visit Gordon in person should also arrange through Paul. Those wishing to make charitable contributions in Gordon's name may do so at either www.alz.org or www.capitalhospice.org.

Our thoughts are with Gordon and his family during this very trying time.

7 Comments

Remembering Gordon Bradley

Access United: DCU vs. Columbus post-game

04/19/2008 11:03 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Access United takes you behind-the-scenes of D.C. United. Below is the most recent edition, following Thursday's 2-1 loss to the Crew. You can see lots of Access United over at dcunited.com.

1 Comments

Access United, Video

Reserves Game #1: DCU 3 - Columbus 2

04/18/2008 12:01 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Three second half goals from United were the difference, as D.C.'s reserves came back from a 2-0 deficit to defeat Columbus 3-2 this morning. Ryan Cordeiro notched the game-winner in the 90th minute. Full report to follow shortly. Oh, and there are a few photos at Video & Pics.

UPDATE: Here is the über official game report.

Washington, DC (April 18, 2008) – D.C. United scored three second half goals – the last in the 90th minute – and came from behind to defeat the Columbus Crew 3-2 in Reserve Division action Friday morning at the D.C. United Training Complex. Dan Stratford, Jeremy Barlow and Ryan Cordeiro all tallied for the Black-and-Red, while an own goal and second half strike from Jason Garey put the Crew on the board.

The first half saw the visitors control much of the game’s possession, as the Crew created a handful of good scoring chances. In the 13th minute Jason Garey’s shot from the left corner was saved by Jose Carvallo as was Steven Lenhart’s dipping shot in the 29th. One of the Crew’s best chances to score came in the 42nd, when a deflected corner kick fell into the path of Lenhart. The forward struck a well-driven first time shot that smashed off the cross bar before being cleared out of danger.

The Crew got on the scoreboard first – in the last minute of the half – when Nicolas Hernandez sent a corner kick centrally. The ball was re-directed by a Crew player towards goal and a retreating Quavas Kirk managed to get a foot to the ball, but unfortunately sent it into the back of his own net. The goal would stand as the lone tally at the halftime whistle.

The second half began with a flurry, as just three minutes in the Crew got their second. Brad Evans collected the ball deep in United territory from a throw in and was able to swing a cross into the box. Garey collided with defender Domenic Mediate as the ball arrived, and then found the ball directly in his path six yards from goal. The University of Maryland product made no mistake and hit a high shot past a diving Carvallo.

Just a minute later, however, United got the first of what would be three goals. Midfielder Rod Dyachenko corralled the ball 20 yards from the Crew’s goal and nearly lost it, but managed to direct the ball to an approaching Dan Stratford as he fell. Stratford took his first touch towards goal and, from 25 yards, smashed a shot to the far post that whizzed by a helpless, diving Andy Gruenbaum.

In the 62nd minute, the Black-and-Red evened the score. After a ball was dumped into the Crew’s right corner, Ryan Cordeiro battled to maintain possession before playing a ball back to Mike Zaher. The defender slid a ball centrally towards Franco Niell, who nicely let the ball roll between his legs to an onrushing Jeremy Barlow. The second half substitute took one touch and finished from inside 18 yards.

Play opened up in the final minutes, as both teams began to tire from the heat. The game looked like it might end in as a stalemate, but D.C. broke through in the final minute of the game. It was again Dyachenko who was the catalyst, as the midfielder received a pass from Pat Carroll near midfield, turned up field and sent a lofted ball over the Crew defense to a sprinting Ryan Cordeiro. The midfielder brought the ball off his chest and then slotted a low shot past an approaching Gruenbaum and into the far corner of the net. The head referee blew his whistle just seconds after the restart and United’s Reserve Division record went to 1-0 as the Crew fell to 0-1.

Scoring summary.

CLB – Own Goal (Quavas Kirk) 45

CLB – Jason Garey (Brad Evans) 48

DC – Dan Stratford (Rod Dyachenko) 49

DC – Jeremy Barlow (Franco Niell, Mike Zaher) 62

DC – Ryan Cordeiro (Rod Dyachenko, Pat Carroll) 90

Lineups.

D.C. United: Jose Carvallo; Pat Carroll, Domenic Mediate, Jeff Curtin (Jeremy Barlow 45), Mike Zaher; Quavas Kirk, Dane Murphy, Dan Stratford, Ryan Cordeiro; Franco Niell, Rod Dyachenko.

Columbus Crew: Andy Gruenbaum; Andrew Peterson, Andy Iro, Ezra Hendrickson, Ryan Miller; Stefani Miglioranzi, Brad Evans, George Josten, Nicolas Hernandez; Jason Garey (Cory Elenio 70), Steven Lenhart (Guilherme So 45).

Stats.

DC – Shots: 6, Saves: 5, Fouls; 9, Corner kicks: 1, Offsides: 3

CLB – Shots: 11, Saves: 2, Fouls: 9, Corner kicks: 5, Offsides: 6

3 Comments

Reserves

Schelotto & Gallardo

04/18/2008 9:19 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Beau Dure of USA Today was at the game last night and has some interesting notes in his blog "The Netminder." Beau tracked nearly every move of the two Argentine players - Guillermo Barros Schelotto and Marcelo Gallardo. He summarizes with a few key notes and also provides the game-long tally. If you've got a few minutes, take a look.

Reserve game this morning. I'll check back in later with the result and some notes.

1 Comments

Marcelo Gallardo

MLS Game #4: DCU 1 - Columbus 2

04/17/2008 10:41 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Last year, the team started 0-3 and then put together the best record in the League, clinching the Supporters' Shield. It's a 30-game schedule and there's a long, long way to go. The team has a nice break now, as it prepares for a rematch with Real Salt Lake - this time at home - a week from Saturday (April 26, 7:30 p.m. ET).

With that said, the team's reserves will play their first game of the year tomorrow morning on the D.C. United Training Fields (located at the intersection of Oklahoma Ave. NE and C St. NE). Game time is 10 a.m., so if you're looking for an excuse to skip work, here it is. Admission is free and the bleachers are three feet from the field. Bring the kids and a picnic (and a hat for the sun).

UPDATE: Here are a few post-game quotes... I've also added a few photos that you can access via the Video & Pics section, including a few of Gallardo and Schelotto.

D.C. UNITED HEAD COACH TOM SOEHN

On the game: I didn’t think we were as sharp as we needed to be. We talked all week about breaking them down, and making sure that [Guillermo Barros] Schelotto and [Alejandro] Moreno on the counter attacks didn’t hurt us. We gave them way too much space and they punished us for it.

On losing: We’ve been through a tough stretch, I feel like this is déjà vu from last year. We’ve got a long week coming up and we’re going to work real hard to make sure we are where we need to be, because we’re not there yet.

On the Crew in the second half: You know they’re going to pack it in and protect their lead, and it’s going to be hard to break it down. We need to finish our chances when we had them, because we had plenty of opportunities to score and open them up.

On Luciano Emilio: We injected as many offensive-minded guys as we could. When you’re chasing a goal that’s what you need to do, and it’s unfortunate – he got himself in good spots again, but he didn’t finish.

On scoring opportunities: We found openings, we just didn’t finish our chances, and that seems to be the sage of the last few games.

On the busy schedule: We need to rest and then this week work really hard to make sure we’re clinical in the areas we need to be clinical in.

On the backline: It should have been better than it was. They punished us for it, and we didn’t do a good job.

D.C. UNITED FORWARD LUCIANO EMILIO [via translation]

On the game: We tried to win the game, we don’t have to give excuses but we have a lot to say, the team wanted it but couldn’t get it. This is something we are trying to overcome together and we are going to try to do our best next game.

On not scoring: I’m not desperate, but obviously I want to score some goals and when that doesn’t happen we are left wanting it because that is our job.

On the team’s mindset: There is no frustration here, we know the potential we have. We’ve lost two games in a row but we know we can go on. We don’t have to get frustrated or cry over it. Next game we must look for the result we want.

D.C. UNITED MIDFIELDER MARCELO GALLARDO [via translation]

On the development of the game: In the first half we played well, we tried to get good touches, go in on the wings, not get desperate. Unfortunately, we found ourselves with a goal against us. From there we played well until we tied but we made a mistake at the end of the first half and they got another score. In the second half we tried but they defended well and we couldn’t score.

On what United lacks: We need to get a couple of wins so we can gain confidence, not get desperate, try not to make mistakes because those always end up costing us the game. This needs to be our mentality, not give up, have confidence because we have a competitive team and we’re just starting, unfortunately not how we wanted to.

On playing against Schelotto: It hurts more to lose a game at home than to lose a dinner [previous bet]. Of the four games, we’ve lost three – not what we had hoped. We all wanted to get a good result but we don’t have to get desperate, we have to work to correct our mistakes.

D.C. UNITED DEFENDER GONZALO PERALTA [via translation]

On the team’s morale: We’re disappointed because we were hoping for something else. But we have to keep working and look ahead, that’s all. We’re optimistic. You feel bad because things don’t go your way but that’s how life is, you keep moving forward.

On the own goal: I wanted to clear the ball because it was on the line and I don’t know if I touched it inside or out. I don’t know, I think I got it on the line. I wanted to clear it but I didn’t make it.

On the lack of results: Game after game you have to deliver, even more a team as big as this. We’re not getting results. The problems are evident; today we had many scoring opportunities. Then they came and scored goals, so on defense we weren’t very good either. It’s a team problem so we have to work together – defense, forwards, goalkeeper, midfielders – to get better.

5 Comments

Columbus Crew

MLS Game #4: DCU vs. Columbus

04/17/2008 6:43 PM by Kyle Sheldon

We're nearing kickoff. If you're not at RFK this evening, tune in to ESPN2 or ESPNdeportes to watch the game live. The big news with the starters is that Gonzalo Martinez, who sat out of practice yesterday, will start at centerback with Señor Peralta. The Colombian came to the stadium early today and told the coaches he wanted to play. Team athletic trainer Brian Goodstein ran the defender through some tests pre-game and said he was able to go...

The full starting lineup is: Zach Wells; Marc Burch, Gonzalo Peralta, Gonzalo Martinez, Bryan Namoff; Fred, Clyde Simms, Marcelo Gallardo, Devon McTavish; Jaime Moreno, Luciano Emilio.

Subs: Jose Carvallo, Quavas Kirk, Rod Dyachenko, Santino Quaranta, Domenic Mediate, Franco Niell, Dan Stratford.

1 Comments

Columbus Crew

Curtin & Zaher signed

04/17/2008 3:37 PM by Kyle Sheldon

We'll be officially announcing in the near future that defenders Jeff Curtin and Mike Zaher have been signed to MLS contracts.

Curtin and Zaher will be available for selection in tomorrow's reserve game versus the Crew's reserve side (10 a.m. ET on the RFK Training Fields).

Curtin was drafted by the Chicago Fire in the second round (14th overall) of the 2006 MLS SuperDraft. He did not see any first team action during his first year with the club, but figured into three games (all starts) in 2007, notching his first career MLS goal. The Pennsylvania native played his collegiate ball at Georgetown University, notching 12 goals and seven assists in 73 matches. Perhaps he can give some Georgetown dining tips?

Zaher was originally drafted by Toronto FC in the third round (30th overall) of the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. He spent four seasons at UCLA where he contributed seven goals and eight assists in 69 games (51 starts). He's also anonymously famous as the leading man in JoJo's music video "Too Little Too Late" which The Washington Post's Dan Steinberg recently wrote about here.

3 Comments

News

MLS Game #4: DCU vs. Columbus

04/17/2008 9:05 AM by Kyle Sheldon

D.C. United takes the field at RFK Stadium this evening at 8 p.m. EST for its first match of the year versus the Columbus Crew. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2 and ESPNdeportes, as well as WFED (1050 AM) and the United Spanish Radio Network (1540 AM, 1390 AM, WLXE 1600 AM and 1350 AM).

Much of today's press is about the matchup between Marcelo Gallardo and the Crew's Guillermo Barros Schelotto. Each was a member of the two biggest clubs in Argentina - Marcelo with River Plate and Schelotto with Boca Jrs. - who happen to make up one of the biggest futbol rivalries in the world. Tonight will be their first-ever meeting as members of MLS.

Here's the newsday rundown:

Steve Goff examines the team's readiness for tonight's game over at the Washington Post (various notes on Soccer Insider, too).
John Haydon touches on the Gallardo-Schelotto match-up in his piece at the Washington Times. Craig Stouffer looks at the return of former United midfielder Brian Carroll and his two brothers - Jeff and Pat - who currently play in D.C. in the Washington Examiner (blog tidbit here).
dcunited.com gets in the mix with an article from Charlie Boehm about the team moving on from the Real Salt Lake game and also with tonight's game notes.
Jeff Carlisle with five storylines to watch in his game preview at espn.com.
Finally, soccer365.com has a Q&A with Santino Quaranta that covers the gamut.

Get out to RFK. Tonight. 8 p.m. Do it.

UPDATE: Here's the weather outlook via the Capital Weather Gang's UnitedCast. It's supposed to be a beautiful evening!

0 Comments

Columbus Crew, Marcelo Gallardo

Tuesday news & notes

04/16/2008 1:38 PM by Kyle Sheldon

The team trained behind closed doors for the majority of practice this morning and early afternoon. The team worked on set pieces and also did some finishing before opening to the media. You can see a few photos from today right here.
Following training, every player shot their ESPN introduction for tomorrow night's game against the Crew. Zach Wells has already developed a reputation, as the ESPN producers remembered him needing eight takes last year while with Houston. It only took three this time around.
Though Ben Olsen won't be playing tomorrow, he did his intro and was then asked a question for tomorrow's broadcast entitled "What's in Frankie Hejduk's book bag." Pretty sure he nailed the contents. Tune in to ESPN2 tomorrow night at 8 p.m. (ET) to hear his answer.
Finally, be sure to check out Steve Goff's live chat that took place this afternoon. He covers numerous questions about United and other soccer topics.

1 Comments

News

BTB Merchandise Offer

04/16/2008 10:18 AM by Kyle Sheldon