Archive: D.C. United
United-Dynamo, the Aftermath
You know about the storm. Now listen to the fury. "Just as a whole, that was bad," Coach Tom Soehn said. After the long delay, "We came out like we did in the first half: no energy and no life. They punished us over and over again." And changes are...
By Steve Goff | July 24, 2008; 02:18 AM ET | Comments (135)
Matchnight: DCU-Dynamo
Well, the deputy walks on hard nails and the preacher rides a mount But nothing really matters much, it's doom alone that counts And the one-eyed undertaker, he blows a futile horn 'Come in,' she said, 'I'll give you, shelter from the storm' Another maelstrom is a-comin' to Estadio RFK....
By Steve Goff | July 23, 2008; 05:18 PM ET | Comments (340)
Weather ... or Not?
Might we be in store for a third DCU-Houston postponement, or at least an interruption, at Estadio RFK tonight? Click here for the game-time forecast from washingtonpost.com's Capital Weather Gang....
By Steve Goff | July 23, 2008; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (39)
Morning Kickaround
*Click here to read the story about the power outage at Estadio RFK yesterday. So far this year, we've had rain, thunder, lightning, power issues, malfunctioning lights, pitch-eating fungus, stray cats roaming the tunnels and famine (have you visited concessions lately?). Tonight: a visit from the Flying Spaghetti Monster. *Toronto...
By Steve Goff | July 23, 2008; 08:30 AM ET | Comments (33)
Northern Rock
It was a night of improvisation and storytelling, individual flair, harmony and elegance. A sellout crowd was offered 90 quality minutes and then considerable added time, rising to its feet with each masterstroke from a Geordie craftsman who took center stage and embarked on a series of incomparable solo runs...
By Steve Goff | July 23, 2008; 06:30 AM ET | Comments (26)
BREAKING NEWS: United Game Postponed Again
D.C. United's makeup game against the Houston Dynamo tonight at RFK Stadium has been postponed. This is not a joke. The reason is power outages throughout Southeast Washington, including RFK, according to club spokesman Doug Hicks. The match will be played Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. The game was originally scheduled...
By Steve Goff | July 22, 2008; 03:16 PM ET | Comments (142)
DCU Update
Quiet morning at the ballpark: United's training session was closed, everyone seemed in an upbeat mood afterward despite the SuperLiga failure and the focus has clearly turned toward tomorrow night's rematch with the Dynamo at RFK. From the sound of things, Jaime Moreno will be back in the starting lineup....
By Steve Goff | July 21, 2008; 01:00 PM ET | Comments (40)
Matchnight SuperLiga: DCU-Houston
Your game-time weather forecast is available by clicking here. Your handy match preview is here. TV: Comcast SportsNet, Telefutura. Other MLS matches today..... *Toronto 0, San Jose 0 *Los Angeles at New York, 6:30 (FSC) [Read George Vecsey's column and relive last year's 5-4 thriller through the magic of video.]...
By Steve Goff | July 19, 2008; 02:00 PM ET | Comments (83)
DCU's All-Star Snub
Jaime Moreno, commenting on no United players in the All-Star Game for the first time in MLS's 13 years: "For me, it has always been very political. Just look at who they are playing [MLS's selections]. Do they deserve it? No. When Juan Pablo Angel has missed half of the...
By Steve Goff | July 18, 2008; 12:01 PM ET | Comments (52)
DCU Update
DCU needs a three-goal victory over Houston tomorrow and an Atlante loss to Chivas to advance to the semifinals of the SuperLiga. The club also knows it has a league match Tuesday against the Dynamo. So should the club go all out, play its regulars (at least the ones that...
By Steve Goff | July 18, 2008; 11:44 AM ET | Comments (48)
Morning Kickaround
*A midweek crowd of 16,000 (though many got in for free), five goals in the first half, a goal by a former local college hero, a virtuoso performance by not-an-all-star Schelotto, the equalizer by a returning USA international, ESPN instead of ESPN2, what more could you ask for from Columbus's...
By Steve Goff | July 18, 2008; 09:10 AM ET | Comments (40)
DCU and Dallas Rumblings
*La Prensa in Honduras is reporting that Platense (Puerto Cortes) is close to a deal to loan 24-year-old midfielder Carlos Will Mejia to D.C. United for the remainder of the MLS season. DCU GM Dave Kasper said he had no comment. One person familiar with the player said that, if...
By Steve Goff | July 17, 2008; 05:32 PM ET | Comments (38)
Surgery for Gallardo and Peralta
D.C. United midfielder Marcelo Gallardo and defender Gonzalo Peralta will have surgery for sports hernias over the next couple days in Germany. Both are expected to be sidelined two to three weeks. Click here for more details....
By Steve Goff | July 17, 2008; 03:10 PM ET | Comments (15)
Carvallo Gone, Phelan Update
No surprise: D.C. United has released reserve goalkeeper Jose Carvallo, a Peruvian on loan from Universitario who appeared in one regular season match and did not seriously challenge Zach Wells for playing time. In recent matches, rookie James Thorpe had served as Wells's back-up. Clearly, DCU is planning to sign...
By Steve Goff | July 17, 2008; 11:21 AM ET | Comments (58)
Morning Kickaround
*Emiliano Diaz, the 25-year-old right-side midfielder from San Lorenzo in Argentina, has arrived in Washington and will begin his trial with D.C. United today. *A link to the Gallardo-Peralta story. *New England moved closer to a SuperLiga semifinal berth with a 1-0 victory over Pachuca, thanks to Khano Smith's penalty...
By Steve Goff | July 17, 2008; 09:13 AM ET | Comments (51)
Oly, All-Stars, Santino and Clint
The latest buzz on the Olympic roster, which will be unveiled at 1 p.m. ET on Thursday, is that Robbie Rogers is in and that Charlie Davies may end up as an alternate. Despite Rogers's excellent form in MLS, there had been some question to his status with USA Coach...
By Steve Goff | July 16, 2008; 04:43 PM ET | Comments (51)
Gallardo, Peralta Possible Surgery
This just in..... Both Marcelo Gallardo and Gonzalo Peralta will see a specialist in Munich to determine whether they will need surgery for sports hernia injuries. The Argentine duo was scheduled to fly to Germany today. A prognosis is not expected until Thursday or Friday. If surgery is necessary, the...
By Steve Goff | July 16, 2008; 10:57 AM ET | Comments (85)
SuperLiga Status, Reyna Situation
First things first: DCU has NOT been eliminated from the SuperLiga. Despite losing its first two matches, United can advance to the semifinals if..... -- DCU (0-2-0, minus-2 goal diff) defeats Houston (1-1-0, plus-3) by at least three goals and Chivas (2-0-0, plus-2) beats Atlante (1-1-0, minus-3). If that occurs........
By Steve Goff | July 16, 2008; 12:15 AM ET | Comments (75)
Argentine Trialist With DCU
According to two trusted sources, Argentine right-side midfielder Emiliano Diaz, 25, will begin a trial with DCU in the near future. Diaz played at San Lorenzo for his father, former Argentine World Cup striker Ramon Angel Diaz, who coached River Plate for many years and is now in charge of...
By Steve Goff | July 15, 2008; 09:01 PM ET | Comments (40)
DCU Update
*Marcelo Gallardo, who has not played since aggravating a groin injury against Los Angeles on June 29, sat out practice again and presumably will not play tomorrow night against Atlante. Asked about Gallardo's status, Coach Tom Soehn said: "We're still evaluating." Asked if surgery is an option, he said: "We're...
By Steve Goff | July 14, 2008; 12:33 PM ET | Comments (39)
Matchnight SuperLiga: DCU-Chivas
Greetings from Estadio RFK..... *The pitch was replaced this past week and looks pretty good; we'll see how well it plays. *I hear DCU is still very much in the market for a goalkeeper to challenge Zach Wells for playing time, and with the window opening Tuesday, we could see...
By Steve Goff | July 12, 2008; 06:34 PM ET | Comments (90)
DCU-Chicago: The Aftermath
Well, what did you guys think? I won't be putting up any player rankings -- I can't pretend to be Goff -- but here's what I saw from the press box. I was actually really impressed by Fred in the early goings of the game and was surprised at how...
By Paul Tenorio | July 9, 2008; 09:47 AM ET | Comments (52)
Matchnight: US Open Cup Quarterfinals
Well, here we go. Tonight, two MLS rivals face off in the US Open Cup quarterfinals at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds at 7:30. Check in at USOpenCup.Com for previews on the other match-ups going on tonight: Crystal Palace USA (USL2) vs. New England Revolution Charleston Battery (USL1) vs. FC...
By Paul Tenorio | July 8, 2008; 03:03 PM ET | Comments (223)
Olsen Undergoes Another Surgery
Hey guys, Paul Tenorio filing here in place of Goff. Just got this bit of news from United spokesman Doug Hicks: D.C. United midfielder Ben Olsen underwent another ankle surgery this afternoon, according to United spokesman Doug Hicks, adding to an extended recovery from ankle problems that have plagued the...
By Paul Tenorio | July 7, 2008; 02:14 PM ET | Comments (51)
DCU-Rhinos, the Aftermath
So with just a few minutes left in United's 2-0 victory over the Rhinos in the U.S. Open Cup round of 16 -- a game you can read about by clicking here -- United was awarded another free kick in a dangerous spot. Marc Burch had already finished two of...
By Steve Goff | July 1, 2008; 11:31 PM ET | Comments (90)
Matchnight: U.S. Open Cup
If eight matches are played and only a few people see them (either in person or on online video), do they make a sound? This is our blog-thread dilemma tonight as eight MLS teams face five USL1 and three USL2 sides in Open Cup action in Boyds, Md.; New Britain,...
By Steve Goff | July 1, 2008; 03:28 PM ET | Comments (161)
Morning Kickaround
*Click here to read all about D.C. United's approach to tonight's U.S. Open Cup round-of-16 match against USL1 Rochester at Maryland SoccerPlex (7:30 ET) and the status of several players, including Ben Olsen. Other Open Cup games: -- New York (MLS) at Crystal Palace Baltimore (USL2) in Annapolis, Md., 7:30...
By Steve Goff | July 1, 2008; 06:00 AM ET | Comments (93)
Injuries and Open Cup
Make no mistake, D.C. United is taking the U.S. Open Cup very seriously this year. A 2009-10 CONCACAF Champions League berth is at stake and the embarrassment at Harrisburg last summer has not sat well with the club. Plus, DCU hasn't won the thing since 1996. But after playing in...
By Steve Goff | June 30, 2008; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (55)
DCU-LA, the Aftermath
Was RFK at its loudest after each of DCU's four goals (they could have scored eight) or when Ben Olsen made his season debut? It was an emotional moment for player, team and supporters, and was captured beautifully in a sidebar by my young Post colleague Steve Yanda. My full...
By Steve Goff | June 29, 2008; 08:15 PM ET | Comments (87)
Matchday: DCU-Galaxy
Greetings from Estadio RFK. Bring your sunscreen and a few gallons of water. It's gonna be a hot one. Things you should know: *The field is not in great shape. Actually, it probably looks worse than it actually is, but, indeed, it does not look good -- patches of brown...
By Steve Goff | June 29, 2008; 09:50 AM ET | Comments (76)
An Olsen Comeback?
Greetings from RFK. *Very interesting change to DCU's injury report: Ben Olsen, thought to be out most if not all of the season with serious ankle problems, has been upgraded to doubtful. No joke. His workouts have intensified in recent weeks and, although there are still concerns about the ankle,...
By Steve Goff | June 28, 2008; 11:57 AM ET | Comments (53)
Morning Kickaround
*The final round of Asian World Cup qualifying is set. Which four teams do you think will qualify for South Africa? The clear favorites are Australia, Japan, South Korea and Iran. *A link to my Beckham-Gallardo, LA-DC story in today's print edition. *I will follow up later today on Latin...
By Steve Goff | June 28, 2008; 08:49 AM ET | Comments (21)
Gallardo's Weather Forecast
Like his coach, Marcelo Gallardo is not happy about a marquee game being played at high noon in hot, humid conditions. "I was commenting on this with my teammates and other people on the club," he said through an interpreter. "I don't understand why you would do a game at...
By Steve Goff | June 27, 2008; 01:05 PM ET | Comments (68)
Soehn Speaks
Coach Tommy, on the decision to drop Franco Niell: "We're going to look to make a change in the [summer transfer window]. We brought him in with pretty high expectations to push for a starting spot and unfortunately it didn't unfold like that, so we are always looking out to...
By Steve Goff | June 27, 2008; 12:39 PM ET | Comments (40)
DCU Update
Where in the world is Francis Doe? United expected him to return from Liberian national team duty early in the week, then changed his ETA to Thursday because of passport and visa issues. (Apparently, the Liberian federation misplaced his documents and he had to scramble to replace them.) However, he...
By Steve Goff | June 27, 2008; 12:00 PM ET | Comments (33)
Morning Kickaround
*Insider loyalists were in the know before anyone else yesterday about Franco Niell's imminent departure. Late in the day, DCU made the official announcement, but without even the standard "We'd like to thank so-and-so for his contributions....." Just three paragraphs and no comments from club officials. Ouch! *Dallas and Houston...
By Steve Goff | June 27, 2008; 09:00 AM ET | Comments (32)
No, No, Niell
[UPDATE: Pending league approval, Niell will be officially waived today.] (Red Sox fans will understand that headline.) Are Franco Niell's days in a D.C. United uniform (kids' size) numbered? Yes. The diminutive Argentine forward did not travel to Columbus yesterday for the reserve match and, with the July 1 contract...
By Steve Goff | June 26, 2008; 01:35 PM ET | Comments (44)
Morning Kickaround
Top of the morning, lads. A variety of tasty items to share..... *Let's start with my United story in the print edition. Nothing you don't already know, but worth a read, nonetheless. *Chelsea really likes Raleigh. *Because of a scheduling conflict, the Red Bulls' U.S. Open Cup match Tuesday at...
By Steve Goff | June 26, 2008; 06:00 AM ET | Comments (53)
DCU Reserves Win
United earned a reserve division victory at Columbus this afternoon, 1-0, on Rod Dyachenko's 73rd-minute goal off a free kick by Marc Burch that knocked around the penalty area. Jose Carvallo and James Thorpe shared DCU's goalkeeping duties. Details of the potential pairings and sites for the U.S. Open Cup...
By Steve Goff | June 25, 2008; 03:18 PM ET | Comments (31)
Quick DCU Update
*Half the roster did not practice today. Fear not: The reserves have a match at Columbus this afternoon so about 14 players, plus a few guests, made the trip. Both backup keepers -- Jose Carvallo and James Thorpe -- were part of the delegation. *Midfielder-defender Domenic Mediate did not travel...
By Steve Goff | June 25, 2008; 12:32 PM ET | Comments (25)
No New Tale to Tell
D.C. United has taken the day off, so not much to share, except..... *The club was approached about right back Dan Gargan, a former Colorado starter who left pro soccer last month shortly after signing with Chivas USA, but has no plans at the moment to look at him to...
By Steve Goff | June 24, 2008; 11:54 AM ET | Comments (40)
Morning Kickaround
On this sunny morning in the nation's capital, as we mourn the loss of a comedic legend and savor his famed American football/baseball routine, plenty of international football to discuss..... *With the USA Olympic women's squad set, we now await the 18-man men's roster. The FIFA deadline is July 23,...
By Steve Goff | June 24, 2008; 08:44 AM ET | Comments (85)
DCU-San Jose, the Aftermath
Dodgy first half, solid second half and, despite another Zach Wells blunder, United wins again. Most importantly, what did you think of the giant, VW-refurbished clock (made to look like a speedometer) on the south wall? The video highlight package is available for viewing by clicking here. PLAYER RATINGS: Wells...
By Steve Goff | June 22, 2008; 09:53 PM ET | Comments (67)
Matchday DCU, USA, Europe
Welcome to the Sunday mega-thread: *San Jose at DCU, 3 ET (CSN, Telefutura) *USA at Barbados, 3 (ESPN Classic, Galavision) *Italy vs. Spain, 2:30 (ESPN) *Other World Cup qualifiers, including El Salvador and Bermuda looking to upset Panama and T&T, respectively. Just for the fun of it, discussions on all...
By Steve Goff | June 22, 2008; 01:07 PM ET | Comments (42)
DCU Updates
Let's start our session with DCU's goalkeeping status..... Coach Tom Soehn, on departing trialist Manuel Vallaurio (Monaco): "I think he came from a situation where he has been coached because some of the dynamics of positioning are all there. It's just not a situation we are going to act on...
By Steve Goff | June 20, 2008; 12:59 PM ET | Comments (25)
Doe? Doh!
D.C. United reserve forward Francis Doe has been issued a new Liberian passport but still needs a visa to return to the United States next week, DCU GM Dave Kasper said. What's going on, you ask? Apparently, the Liberian federation misplaced Doe's passport while the national team was competing in...
By Steve Goff | June 19, 2008; 02:09 PM ET | Comments (10)
Barbados, Bakary, Books and Back-to-Back
A variety of afternoon topics to discuss: *Sticking with the alliteration, Bob Bradley is in the process of finalizing his roster for the almost meaningless World Cup qualifier at Barbados on Sunday. The following players have been dropped from consideration: Ching, Dempsey, Cherundolo, Donovan, Guzan, Hejduk, Edu, Kljestan, Mastroeni and...
By Steve Goff | June 19, 2008; 12:38 PM ET | Comments (47)
Emptying the Notebook
The Santino Quaranta story last Saturday checked in at around 2,700 words. Nonetheless, there was plenty of great material that did not make the cut: On whether he was looking for sympathy: "I don't need a pat on the back. I don't need anyone to say, 'Good job for not...
By Steve Goff | June 18, 2008; 02:18 PM ET | Comments (69)
In Reserve
Nothing like spending a gorgeous morning at the RFK training grounds for a DCU-Toronto reserve match. What does it say about Jose Carvallo that, for the second consecutive reserve game, he starts out on the bench? Clearly, the clock is ticking on his MLS career. The July 1 contract deadline...
By Steve Goff | June 18, 2008; 11:06 AM ET | Comments (56)
Morning Kickaround
*The complete Luciano Emilio story and other DCU notes are available here. TODAY IN MLS -- New York at New England, 7:30 -- San Jose at Real Salt Lake, 9 Depleted and defensive-inept Red Bulls attempt to slow the surging Revs, while RSL looks to extend its modest streak against...
By Steve Goff | June 18, 2008; 07:30 AM ET | Comments (44)
Get a Haircut, Punk
Everything you ever wanted to know about D.C. United hairstyles and haircuts -- and were afraid to ask -- is chronicled on Dan Steinberg's Sports Bog. Enjoy. Or at least pretend to....
By Steve Goff | June 17, 2008; 05:24 PM ET | Comments (13)
Emilio Is Staying
As we told you the other day, Morelia Coach Luis Fernando Tena and one of his assistants attended D.C. United's match against New York on Saturday night at Estadio RFK. Their target: Luciano Emilio. But according to both Emilio and DCU General Manager Dave Kasper today, the club is not...
By Steve Goff | June 17, 2008; 01:16 PM ET | Comments (76)
DCU-NY, The Aftermath
Show of hands, as of a few weeks ago, who wanted Luciano Emilio driven to the city limits and told never to return? Go ahead, admit it, don't be shy. Good thing that didn't happen, huh? His first MLS hat trick -- that Olsen character had one last season, but...
By Steve Goff | June 15, 2008; 12:21 AM ET | Comments (75)
Matchnight: DCU vs. New York
[updated] Greetings from RFK. Guess what? It's been raining. Almost every match this season, or so it seems. Hopefully, no postponements (RFK) or tornado warnings (Chicago), like last week. Here's the game-time forecast: click here. For those of you watching at home: Comcast SportsNet and HDNet. Yes, United's Domenic Mediate...
By Steve Goff | June 14, 2008; 05:47 PM ET | Comments (79)
Santino's Story
Since returning to D.C. United this spring, Santino Quaranta has been telling everyone that he went through a lot in his recovery from injuries and in his attempts to turn around his troubled career. We didn't know exactly what he had to overcome to make it back. Until now. In...
By Steve Goff | June 13, 2008; 09:46 PM ET | Comments (76)
What's the Lineup?
Tom Soehn did not reveal his starters for tomorrow night's match against New York at Estadio RFK -- no surprise there -- but with Marcelo Gallardo and Bryan Namoff suspended, he is going to have to make some adjustments. You can certainly read into these comments: "Right now we are...
By Steve Goff | June 13, 2008; 12:04 PM ET | Comments (60)
Morning Kickaround
*Never mind the Celtics' majestic comeback or Mike Lowell's grand slam last night. Boston is all about Matt Reis and the Revs, who are on a 5-0-1 run following a 2-0 victory at Houston. The Revs are the rage up and down Route 1, no? Reis continues to exact his...
By Steve Goff | June 13, 2008; 09:44 AM ET | Comments (53)
Morning Kickaround
*Click here to read my print-edition story about Luciano Emilio and his postgame celebration in Chicago. *Chicago defeated Columbus in overtime in U.S. Open Cup qualifying to reach the round of 16, while the first round commenced with matches all around the country. Real Maryland's home game was postponed until...
By Steve Goff | June 11, 2008; 09:21 AM ET | Comments (25)
DCU Update
*Midfielder Julio Arjona, a D.C. native who was attending Clarksburg High in Maryland before moving to the Bradenton system and the U.S. under-17 national team, is training with United's full squad (this week only). *Fred's wife gave birth to a baby girl yesterday. He was given today off to spend...
By Steve Goff | June 10, 2008; 01:26 PM ET | Comments (47)
Another Step Closer to PG County
We offered you a pro-stadium perspective in this morning's kickaround. Now, yet another anti-stadium theme. A group of economists have checked in on the Poplar Point/soccer stadium issue. Their conclusion: 20-30 events at such a stadium is not economically feasible for a city that would have to commit at least...
By Steve Goff | June 10, 2008; 11:18 AM ET | Comments (62)
Morning Kickaround
*The USA roster for this Sunday's World Cup qualifying opener against Barbados at Home Depot Center will be unveiled today on ESPN2 after the Spain-Russia Euro match and before the Sweden-Greece game. So sometime between 2 and 2:30 ET. *A final update on the VIP list at Giants Stadium for...
By Steve Goff | June 10, 2008; 09:00 AM ET | Comments (37)
Morning Kickaround
It's still morning in the Mountain and Pacific time zones, so I get a pass, right? ;-) *In the wake of last Wednesday's monsoon at Estadio RFK, D.C. United has proposed playing the make-up match with Houston on July 23, the day before the All-Star Game in Toronto. It would...
By Steve Goff | June 9, 2008; 01:18 PM ET | Comments (50)
DCU-Chicago, the Aftermath
A few hours' sleep, and then back to O'Hare for a flight to New Jersey and the USA-Argentina match Sunday evening. So I'll have to make this quick. An evening that began with a tornado alert, ends with..... United winning a road match, shorthanded no less. United getting out of...
By Steve Goff | June 8, 2008; 01:39 AM ET | Comments (71)
Matchnight: DCU at Chicago
Greetings from Bridgeview. A brief rainstorm passed through Chicagoland, maybe more later. Very humid, nice breeze, immaculate pitch. UPDATE: The Bridgeview tornado siren -- yes, tornado siren -- was wailing for a few minutes. The gates have remained closed and we could have a delay. First Wednesday's rainout, now this....
By Steve Goff | June 7, 2008; 06:44 PM ET | Comments (109)
Euro Matchday
Let the games begin! Switzerland-Czech Republic, noon Portugal-Turkey, 2:45 TV: ESPN Classic. This is the place for pregame, in-game and postgame discussion. In the meantime..... *Read my United-Fire preview. *Show your disgust about racist elements in Paris. *Watch video highlights from the Revs' 2-1 victory over Dallas. *Marvel at Venezuela's...
By Steve Goff | June 7, 2008; 06:46 AM ET | Comments (48)
DCU Update
*RFK survived Wednesday's storm without significant damage to the field -- just an awful lot of water passing through the turf. *United officials are beginning to look ahead to the club's U.S. Open Cup opener on July 1, a round-of-16 match against an opponent to be determined. RFK is not...
By Steve Goff | June 6, 2008; 11:59 AM ET | Comments (26)
Jozy's Deal
From what I've been able to piece together, MLS will receive approximately $10 million from Villarreal for Red Bulls forward Jozy Altidore, not the $12 million-plus I initially reported. However, if Altidore meets certain incentives, the league could end up with a couple million dollars more. There is also a...
By Steve Goff | June 5, 2008; 11:38 AM ET | Comments (18)
DCU-Houston, the Aftermath (Sort Of)
D.C. United's first shutout in league play! See, that wasn't so difficult. And they didn't even need to use any reserves to pull it off. Player Ratings: Perfect 10s for everyone. But seriously..... The teams and league today will discuss possible make-up dates. DCU Prez Kevin Payne mentioned the week...
By Steve Goff | June 5, 2008; 12:43 AM ET | Comments (52)
Matchday: DCU-Houston
[UPDATE: Because of lightning and heavy rain, tonight's match will not begin until 8 p.m., at the earliest.] [SECOND UPDATE: Late lineup changes.....Ching out with a tight hamstring, Niell has replaced Stratford on United's active roster.] Greetings from RFK. The first massive storm swept through the area this afternoon, another...
By Steve Goff | June 4, 2008; 05:58 PM ET | Comments (48)
Morning Kickaround
*Click here to read my story about D.C. United's goalkeeping situation. *Weather outlook for Estadio RFK tonight: gloomy. *Attendance outlook: Maybe 15,000. *D.C. United's academy team wrapped up group play in a major youth tournament in Spain with an 8-0 loss to Partizan Belgrade. Yes, that score is correct. *Besides...
By Steve Goff | June 4, 2008; 09:19 AM ET | Comments (45)
DCU Update
I don't anticipate any major lineup shifts tomorrow against Houston, other than Gonzalo Peralta returning to the backline in place of Domenic Mediate. Here's a developing storyline: Fred's wife is due to give birth soon -- Monday, to be exact. As you'll recall, Peralta missed two recent road matches during...
By Steve Goff | June 3, 2008; 12:24 PM ET | Comments (19)
The Cat's Meow
As we awaited D.C. United to open the final stage of practice -- you know, the stretching and messing around session, where no secrets are revealed -- a scruffy, black and white cat dashed through the media room in the RFK basement. (For dramatic writing purposes, we were hoping it...
By Steve Goff | June 3, 2008; 11:12 AM ET | Comments (33)
It's Comcastic
Big week for D.C. United: two-time defending champion Houston in town Wednesday, a trip to Chicago on Saturday, and most importantly, it's United Championship Week on Comcast SportsNet. Here's the rundown: Today: Mark Simpson in studio during "Washington Post Live" at 5 p.m. (replay at 11), the top five goals...
By Steve Goff | June 2, 2008; 01:30 PM ET | Comments (30)
Poplar Point Update
Follow these instructions carefully: 1. Read today's story. 2. Open backdoor and scream. 3. Fire off disgruntled e-mail to City Council and Mayor. 4. Vow never to cross Roosevelt, Memorial, 14th Street, Key or Chain bridges again. 5. Configure MapQuest for drive to Greenbelt or New Carrollton....
By Steve Goff | June 1, 2008; 10:49 AM ET | Comments (66)
Saturday in the Park
*Dallas finally gets its man: SMU's Schellas Hyndman. *More than 38,000 at Estadio RFK for El Salvador-Guatemala. *Franco Niell scores for the DCU reserves in a 1-1 tie with New England. *MLS today: Los Angeles at Toronto, 3:30 New York at Houston, 9 (HDNet) San Jose at RSL, 9 (FSC)...
By Steve Goff | May 31, 2008; 01:01 PM ET | Comments (39)
DCU-NE, the Aftermath
Nice show for almost an hour. DCU played like the team it was supposed to be, even struck for a pair of goals on the road. (Say it ain't so!) But the scoring dried up, thanks in large part to Matt Reis, and United abruptly faded. Under most circumstances, getting...
By Steve Goff | May 30, 2008; 12:13 AM ET | Comments (149)
Matchday: DCU at New England
[updated with team news and lineup] Greetings from the Borough of Fox..... Gorgeous, cloudless day in New England. Given our location and DCU's opponent, today's musical selections are Foxboro Hot Tubs (a Green Day alias), Steve Earle and OAR. Our tour of MLS road eats continues with a very modest...
By Steve Goff | May 29, 2008; 04:22 PM ET | Comments (157)
Morning Kickaround
Before I head to the airport for a flight to Boston and tonight's DCU-Revs match..... *The entertaining video highlight package from the 2-2 tie between Dallas and Houston is available by clicking here. *As you will read in my print-edition story, Franco Niell has been left off DCU's game-day roster...
By Steve Goff | May 29, 2008; 08:10 AM ET | Comments (114)
Quick DCU Update
*Defender Gonzalo Peralta's wife is expected to give birth soon and, although he is not scheduled to travel with the team to Boston today, he could rejoin the club tomorrow before kickoff. *Rookie midfielder Ryan Cordeiro has been promoted from the lower developmental to the senior developmental roster, taking the...
By Steve Goff | May 28, 2008; 11:58 AM ET | Comments (39)
Lots of Soccer
[Updated with link to U.S. national team preview package] Where to begin in today's soccer-happy Washington Post? *The prospects of a 27,000-seat D.C. United stadium at Poplar Point are improving, or so it seems. *Franco Niell could be nearing the end of his stay in Washington. You'll find an interesting...
By Steve Goff | May 28, 2008; 07:00 AM ET | Comments (75)
Stadium? Oh, That Stadium
Poplar Point update..... From David Nakamura's story in Wednesday's editions of The Post: A coalition of D.C. Council members is drafting legislation that would authorize Mayor Adrian M. Fenty to spend $150 million in public money to subsidize construction of a soccer stadium for D.C. United in Southeast Washington, city...
By Steve Goff | May 27, 2008; 10:07 PM ET | Comments (54)
Moreno's Bolivia Status
DCU team captain Jaime Moreno has been asked by the Bolivian federation to report to national team training camp this Sunday -- almost two weeks ahead of its World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Paraguay at home -- but he said he does not think the club will allow him...
By Steve Goff | May 27, 2008; 01:13 PM ET | Comments (66)
DCU Training Update
*Argentine forward Franco Niell, who has been left off the 18-man roster the last two matches, is getting discouraged by his lack of playing time. "Any player in this situation would be not only very discouraged, but very worried," he said through an interpreter. Asked what he has been told...
By Steve Goff | May 27, 2008; 12:41 PM ET | Comments (35)
DCU-TFC, The Aftermath
It wasn't graceful by any means, but after four consecutive losses, D.C. United wasn't too concerned about aesthetics tonight. Before we go any further, when was the last time three goals were scored in an MLS game by players as large as Danny Dichio and Gonzalo Peralta? (A combined 12...
By Steve Goff | May 25, 2008; 12:44 AM ET | Comments (90)
Matchday: DCU-TFC
[updated] Greetings from Estadio RFK, where United's gloomy outlook has been interrupted (temporarily, at least) by heavenly skies, comfortable temperatures and a light breeze. Are we in San Diego? Upon my arrival, I watched many of the reserves getting in some training on the sidelines. Franco Niell (coach's decision) and...
By Steve Goff | May 24, 2008; 05:29 PM ET | Comments (122)
Jeff Curtin Retires
As expected, D.C. United defender Jeff Curtin, 24, has retired because of recurring groin injuries, a decision that creates an opening on the club's developmental roster. United acquired the Georgetown graduate on waivers this spring. He made three appearances for Chicago in his first two years in MLS....
By Steve Goff | May 23, 2008; 05:19 PM ET | Comments (35)
Friday Night Lights
Kaka is sidelined, Carlos Bocanegra is out at Fulham and perhaps on the way to the Netherlands or Spain, and Sir Alex is mighty steamed about Real Madrid's interest in Cristiano Ronaldo. "Real think they can ride roughshod over everyone, but they won't do it with us. They have no...
By Steve Goff | May 23, 2008; 02:16 PM ET | Comments (34)
DCU Updates
As always on the day before a match, the meaningful portion of training was closed, so no eyewitness reports of formations, tactics, form, etc. In interviews after training, many of the players voiced their support for Coach Tom Soehn, who has been blamed for much of the club's early-season problems....
By Steve Goff | May 23, 2008; 12:08 PM ET | Comments (89)
Morning Kickaround
So I'm a little slow on this matter -- must've been that American University education! -- but after visiting BMO Field again this week I've finally formed an opinion on the streamers being tossed during TFC matches. The key word in that previous sentence is "during." It's gotta stop. Sorry,...
By Steve Goff | May 23, 2008; 08:40 AM ET | Comments (150)
Good Afternoon
Pardon the absence. Flew back from Toronto and then celebrated the wedding anniversary with Mrs. Insider in historic Leesburg. Just trying to catch up on things..... *United's reserves can't win either -- a 2-1 loss to Toronto this morning. Lombardo and Gala scored for TFC, Kirk for DCU. Leftover quote...
By Steve Goff | May 22, 2008; 02:36 PM ET | Comments (63)
The Aftermath: DCU-TFC
D.C. United does not score on the road. D.C. United does not win on the road. D.C. United does not score on artificial turf. D.C. United does not win on artificial turf. Oh, who are we kidding? D.C. United does not win anywhere. Four in a row, folks. The effort...
By Steve Goff | May 22, 2008; 12:08 AM ET | Comments (179)
Matchday: DCU at TFC
Greetings from Toronto, usually one of my favorite stops on the MLS bandwagon tour. Usually. Not today. Gray, windy, cold, a touch of rain. Otherwise, this city is a gem. As your favorite soccer/culture blog, we pay tribute today to Canada's contribution to the music scene: Neil Young, Robbie...
By Steve Goff | May 21, 2008; 05:59 PM ET | Comments (176)
Morning Kickaround
In today's print editions, I take a broad look at D.C. United's problems heading into this week's critical pair of matches against Toronto FC. For a chart of DCU's slow starts over its history, click here. Some interesting quotes to chew on, as well: "Losing the other day really ticked...
By Steve Goff | May 21, 2008; 09:03 AM ET | Comments (135)
DCU Update
In talking with United Coach Tom Soehn and the players, you get the sense that the club is fiercely determined to end this terrible stretch of soccer and defeat Toronto tomorrow night. You hear things like, "We're tried of losing," "We have no choice but to turn it around" and...
By Steve Goff | May 20, 2008; 12:00 PM ET | Comments (69)
Morning Kickaround
A quick rundown before I sit in rain-slowed traffic to monitor D.C.'s shattered MLS club..... *Perhaps an announcement from the USSF today concerning the national team roster for next week's friendly against England at Wembly. Perhaps. The core of the squad will be Euro-based players, and Coach Bob Bradley will...
By Steve Goff | May 20, 2008; 07:58 AM ET | Comments (36)
Inter Active
Inter finally secures the Serie A title, thanks to Zlatan Ibrahimovic's two goals: *D.C. United player update: Devon McTavish (foot) and Fred (hamstring) are both listed as probable for Wednesday's match at Toronto, Gonzalo Peralta, whose pregnant wife is on bed rest, trained today and may very well travel with...
By Steve Goff | May 19, 2008; 11:06 AM ET | Comments (63)
The Aftermath, DCU-Chivas USA
You will not see any quotes in my match report on The Post Web site or in the very late print edition. There are two reasons for this: First, the match started very late on the East Coast and deadline was tight. The second, and bigger explanation, was the fact...
By Steve Goff | May 18, 2008; 01:18 AM ET | Comments (143)
Matchday: DCU at Chivas USA
[UPDATED with DCU lineup] California, preaching on the burning shore California, I'll be knocking on the golden door Man, it's hot out here. Hotter than the Jalapeno Burger at Carl's Jr. Hotter than Diane Lane in "Unfaithful." (Okay, maybe it's not that hot here.) Near 100 in the Valley. Around...
By Steve Goff | May 17, 2008; 11:18 AM ET | Comments (130)
Greetings From L.A.
D.C. United's practice at Home Depot Center was closed -- something we are going to have to get used to, I'm afraid. Seems the ballclub isn't happy with my vivid descriptions of training sessions and the formation and player information being revealed. I can't blame them. I could agree to...
By Steve Goff | May 16, 2008; 07:45 PM ET | Comments (44)
Ramblin' Man
Tryin' to make a livin' and doin' the best I can Off to Los Angeles soon for DCU's match at Chivas USA tomorrow night. Before I depart, a few offerings..... *The USA player pool has been announced for the three upcoming friendlies against England, Spain and Argentina. The game-day roster...
By Steve Goff | May 16, 2008; 07:36 AM ET | Comments (80)
Cordeiro's Time?
We know that Fred will not be available to start on the left flank for D.C. United at Chivas USA on Saturday night. From all indications, Marc Burch will drop back into defense after playing in midfield against Chicago. Devon McTavish is hurt. Ben Olsen is not returning anytime soon....
By Steve Goff | May 15, 2008; 03:17 PM ET | Comments (63)
DCU's Dizzying Status Report
Oh, where to begin. Marcelo Gallardo participated in full workouts and seems set to start Saturday night at Chivas USA. "He has looked as good as he's looked all year," teammate Santino Quaranta said. Luciano Emilio, who has a quadriceps strain and sat out a portion of training, declined an...
By Steve Goff | May 15, 2008; 11:54 AM ET | Comments (65)
Josh Gros's Transition Game
You may have noticed that Peter Nowak included a familiar name -- Josh Gros -- as an assistant coach for his U.S. under-23 national team's trip to France for the Toulon International Tournament, which begins next week. "We didn't talk about it all. It was a complete surprise," Gros told...
By Steve Goff | May 15, 2008; 09:22 AM ET | Comments (30)
Morning Kickaround
*As your favorite soccer/culture blogger, I was trying to find the right music for D.C. United's back-to-back shutout losses over a recent five-day period. How about "Five Days in May" by Blue Rodeo, the countryish band from Toronto? (DCU does, in fact, play TFC twice next week.) Sometimes the world...
By Steve Goff | May 14, 2008; 06:00 AM ET | Comments (34)
Quick DCU Update
[update on the update!] Sorry to interrupt the lively discussion on Toronto streamers. Good stuff! Marcelo Gallardo (groin) and Fred (quad) did not practice -- jogging and stretching only -- while Devon McTavish (foot) said he is making progress and might be available Saturday night at Chivas USA (10:30 p.m....
By Steve Goff | May 13, 2008; 12:40 PM ET | Comments (60)
Read It in the Sunday Papers
Thanks, Joe. To read Mike Wise's front-page Sunday column about Ben Olsen and D.C. United, click here. To read my front-page match report on the USA-Canada women's friendly and Natasha Kai's hat trick, click here....
By Steve Goff | May 11, 2008; 01:11 AM ET | Comments (24)
Who's to Blame?
D.C. United failed to get past the Champions' Cup semifinals again. It has lost five of its first seven league matches, has not scored a goal on the road and been vulnerable at home. Who is to blame? THE PLAYERS? Luciano Emilio has gone from MVP (most valuable player) to...
By Steve Goff | May 9, 2008; 11:18 AM ET | Comments (139)
Payne Is, Um, a Little Upset
Read all of the DCU president's postgame comments by clicking here. Bonus quotes..... Tom Soehn: "We have got to evaluate and make sure now we turn this around. It's getting to a crucial time." Yup. Santino Quaranta: "We do the right amount of work, but we are just not good...
By Steve Goff | May 9, 2008; 12:56 AM ET | Comments (136)
Matchday: DCU-Chicago
[UPDATED with DCU LINEUP] Greetings from soggy RFK. Reminders..... *Kickoff is scheduled for 8:02 p.m. *TV: ESPN2, with pregame starting at 7:30. *Weather: The game-time report is available here. *Parking is free. (All at once....."Thanks, VW!") *Because of the wet field, the DCU under-18 academy team's match against the Potomac...
By Steve Goff | May 8, 2008; 03:00 PM ET | Comments (154)
United's Second DP Is.....
Luciano Emilio. Sort of. It's complicated. According to his agent and officials with other MLS clubs who were notified about the upgrade -- and confirmed this morning on DCU's official roster -- the Brazilian striker has filled the designated player slot acquired from Colorado in the Christian Gomez trade. Here's...
By Steve Goff | May 8, 2008; 07:38 AM ET | Comments (86)
Join the Photo Fun
Your chance to write a clever caption. Click here for details and submit your entry on both blogs! (Lindsay's first, of course -- it's her idea.)...
By Steve Goff | May 7, 2008; 04:25 PM ET | Comments (11)
Afternoon Updates
*DCU-Chicago kickoff tomorrow is scheduled for 8:02 p.m. ESPN2 coverage begins at 7:30. *A moment of silence for Gordon Bradley (former Cosmos, Dips and George Mason coach, and a former DCU TV commentator) and longtime USSF official Bill Goaziou will be held before tomorrow's match. Both passed away last week....
By Steve Goff | May 7, 2008; 02:06 PM ET | Comments (22)
Morning Kickaround
*Click here to read my long profile of DCU's high-priced playmaker, Marcelo Gallardo. Unlike most foreign players, he opened up and had some interesting tales to tell, most notably the telephone call he received from Diego Maradona. *Dan Steinberg's Sports Bog was on location at RFK for the VW-DCU festivities...
By Steve Goff | May 7, 2008; 08:55 AM ET | Comments (46)
Yes, There Is Non-VW News
Fred (quadriceps) practiced, Devon McTavish (foot) did not, Marcelo Gallardo and Domenic Mediate jogged on the side. Don't expect an appearance on Thursday against Chicago by McTavish, who said: "I could wake up in the morning and feel amazing, but that has not happened yet." DCU Prez Kevin Payne and...
By Steve Goff | May 6, 2008; 12:35 PM ET | Comments (72)
Beep-Beep
Greetings from the RFK Stadium's Volkswagen Lounge, formerly known as the VIP Lounge. Outside the entrance is the 1964 black VW Beetle, Max, featured in the new TV ad campaign. Sadly, no Heidi Klum. Fortunately, no David Hasselhoff. It's now official: VW and DCU have joined forces in a five-year...
By Steve Goff | May 6, 2008; 09:53 AM ET | Comments (94)
Morning Kickaround
On a day that D.C. United will join forces with a German automaker, let's start the morning with an American theme. *Clint Dempsey commits to Fulham, regardless of whether the clubs stays in the Premiership or drops to the Championship division. *Michael Bradley had an incredible season in the Netherlands,...
By Steve Goff | May 6, 2008; 07:38 AM ET | Comments (44)
Das Auto: VW and DCU
[updated with news conference details] D.C. United has finalized a five-year deal valued in excess of $14 million with Volkswagen for the international automaker to become the club's primary sponsor, sources familiar with the negotiations said today. DCU officials declined comment. It is the second-richest pact between an MLS team...
By Steve Goff | May 5, 2008; 02:03 PM ET | Comments (110)
DCU-Colorado, the Aftermath
Fans entering Dick's Sporting Goods Park on Sunday were given Mexican wrestling masks as part of the Rapids' Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Perhaps to spare themselves further embarrassment after their brutal display, United's players should have tried them on for size. Yes, it was that bad. "We were just bad...
By Steve Goff | May 4, 2008; 07:59 PM ET | Comments (72)
Matchday: DCU at Colorado
Greetings from the Front Range, where wispy clouds, light breezes and a 70-degree temperature serve as a gorgeous backdrop for MLS's lone Sunday match. Never mind the game, though. Afterward, as part of the Cinco de Mayo celebrations, Dick's Sporting Goods Park will be transformed into a Mexican wrestling venue....
By Steve Goff | May 4, 2008; 01:55 PM ET | Comments (100)
No Fred
Greetings from Denver. The team is on its way. Fred (the D.C. United midfielder, not the Lyon forward or the XM Ch. 44 station) did not make the trip because of his quadriceps injury. As expected, midfielders Devon McTavish (foot) and Domenic Mediate (hamstring) also stayed home. As far as...
By Steve Goff | May 3, 2008; 01:54 PM ET | Comments (69)
More News From RFK
*Devon McTavish (sprained foot) did not practice and appears unlikely to travel with DCU to Denver this weekend. *Fred (bruised quadriceps) practiced Wednesday and Thursday, but worked out on the side today. *Domenic Mediate (hamstring) was also limited in his activity today. *Marcelo Gallardo is a little banged up and...
By Steve Goff | May 2, 2008; 02:02 PM ET | Comments (58)
Olsen's Career in Jeopardy
DCU midfielder Ben Olsen , a 10-year veteran and 2007 all-league selection who has yet to play this season because of ankle problems, will not return to the field anytime soon, if at all. "It's not great," he told the Insider today. "It's a situation where we are going to...
By Steve Goff | May 2, 2008; 12:26 PM ET | Comments (85)
Morning Kickaround
*I hear that D.C. United President Kevin Payne will join GM Dave Kasper in Argentina this weekend for the superclasico. Intriguing, no? Maybe a formal relationship with Boca? Are the Juan Sebastian Veron talks back on? How about a Martin Palermo signing after Luciano Emilio is transferred to a Central...
By Steve Goff | May 2, 2008; 08:59 AM ET | Comments (77)
United, Argentina and France
Things I'm hearing..... *DCU General Manager Dave Kasper departed for Argentina yesterday to meet with his club and player contacts. I seem to remember United picking up a few players in South America over the winter. ;-) He is planning to attend Sunday's Boca-River superclasico. Begin wild speculation at your...
By Steve Goff | May 1, 2008; 12:29 PM ET | Comments (80)
Soehn Speaks
On facing Christian Gomez for the first time this weekend in Denver..... "Having Christian here for so long, obviously we know his strengths and we are going to have to stop him because he can hurt you in so many different ways. But we're just focused on being a harder...
By Steve Goff | April 29, 2008; 01:18 PM ET | Comments (13)
DCU News and Notes
*MF-D Devon McTavish (sprained foot-ankle) and MF Fred (bruised quadriceps) worked out on the side and did not participate in regular workouts. MF-D Domenic Mediate (hamstring) remains out. "I feel much better," Fred said, adding that he thinks he'll be ready for Sunday's match at Colorado. Coach Tom Soehn believes...
By Steve Goff | April 29, 2008; 12:32 PM ET | Comments (35)
Morning Kickaround
*Barcelona visits Old Trafford to face Manchester United in the second leg of their Champions League semifinal today (2:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2). Following the dreary scoreless draw in the first match, let's hope we see something akin to the clubs' 1999 CL group showdown when a young lad named David...
By Steve Goff | April 29, 2008; 08:59 AM ET | Comments (41)
Parlez Vous Francais, DCU?
Three independent sources tell me D.C. United is in talks with a French coach or administrator about overseeing the club's youth development system as well as working in other areas of the organization. The individual is meeting with team officials today. More details as we learn them. [UPDATE: DCU has...
By Steve Goff | April 28, 2008; 02:40 PM ET | Comments (54)
DCU-RSL Aftermath
Big victory for DCU. How big? Gheorghe Muresan big. You remember the 7-foot-7 former NBA player, right? Well, the football-lovin', Washington-livin' Romanian was in the DCU locker room after the match. You think he makes other NBA players look small? Imagine the sight of Muresan and Franco Niell in the...
By Steve Goff | April 27, 2008; 12:40 AM ET | Comments (56)
Matchday: DCU-RSL
Greetings again from Estadio RFK. Before we get to the new-look DCU lineup, I wanted to offer up an update on former DCU midfielder Brian Kamler, who is in town for the match. While his primary purpose for the visit is color commentator on RSL's radio broadcast (he also does...
By Steve Goff | April 26, 2008; 06:29 PM ET | Comments (71)
Matchday Primer
For the weather forecast between 7:30 and 9:30 at Estadio RFK, click here. For a look at Luciano Emilio's problems, click here. For a look at RSL's approach, click here and here. For RFK qualifier news, click here. For George Vecsey's wonderful column on the closure of a New York...
By Steve Goff | April 26, 2008; 10:54 AM ET | Comments (29)
Update From RFK
United's training session this morning was closed, but I can tell you this: *Defender Gonzalo Peralta (knee) is fine and appears set to start against RSL tomorrow night. However, midfielder Devon McTavish (foot-ankle) sat out again and will not be in uniform. Midfielder Domenic Mediate (hamstring) is doubtful. *Santino Quaranta...
By Steve Goff | April 25, 2008; 12:05 PM ET | Comments (40)
Morning Kickaround
Let's play "Name That Team." Here are your clues: Chase Hilgenbrinck, Amaechi Igwe, Gary Flood, Kheli Dube, Rob Valentino, Spencer Wadsworth, Brandon Tyler and Sam Brill. The first three mysterious characters were starters on the road against unbeaten Dallas last night. The other no-names were available on the bench. That's...
By Steve Goff | April 25, 2008; 08:26 AM ET | Comments (53)
Owning Up to an Equalizer
*We feel John Arne Riise's pain after his own-goal-heard-round-the-world during added time yesterday in Liverpool's 1-1 loss draw with visiting Chelsea. We really do. Rest assured, the Norwegian defender has had better days. Here are a few of 'em: Today's match: Manchester United at Barcelona (2:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2). This...
By Steve Goff | April 23, 2008; 08:56 AM ET | Comments (74)
Midday Kickaround
*Local organizers are close to finalizing a May 30 friendly between El Salvador and Guatemala at Estadio RFK. Both teams are preparing for the second round of World Cup qualifying in June: El Salvador vs. Panama and Guatemala vs. St. Lucia. The Salvadorans drew more than 22,000 at RFK last...
By Steve Goff | April 22, 2008; 12:45 PM ET | Comments (74)
DCU News and Notes
Just a bit of rain the last two days, eh? Reminds me of Foxborough on Oct. 20, 1996, and RFK on Oct. 26, 1997. DCU supporters remember those days fondly. With the grass training grounds turned to mush, United moved practice to the adjacent turf field for a 90-minute workout...
By Steve Goff | April 21, 2008; 01:06 PM ET | Comments (49)
Happy Weekend
Slow day so far. Let's keep it that way. D.C. United is off this weekend, and so am I. You should know that the DCU reserves rebounded from a two-goal deficit to beat Columbus, 3-2, this morning. Keep a look out in Saturday's print editions (available online late tonight) for...
By Steve Goff | April 18, 2008; 01:01 PM ET | Comments (48)
DCU-Columbus Aftermath
A few quick observations from United's 2-1 loss to Columbus at RFK: *Luciano Emilio's finishing touch is not the only problem. His speed of thought is slow, he can't maintain possession when under pressure and seems uncomfortable with the ball at his feet. Is it an aberration or is he...
By Steve Goff | April 18, 2008; 12:02 AM ET | Comments (79)
Matchday: DCU-Columbus
[updated] Greetings from Estadio RFK. Another gorgeous evening for a match. Almost heavenly. Divine intervention? After all, the Pope is in town. Okay, first a pair of expected developmental signings: defenders Jeff Curtin, who was claimed in the waiver draft last month, and Mike Zaher, a rookie from UCLA drafted...
By Steve Goff | April 17, 2008; 05:42 PM ET | Comments (106)
Predictions, Anyone?
Does D.C. United bounce back from Saturday's horror show at RSL and continue its fine run of play at Estadio RFK? How about Everton at home against Chelsea? (Lampard and Drogba are out, Chelsea trying to keep its league title hopes alive, Everton vying for a top-four finish) And for...
By Steve Goff | April 17, 2008; 12:44 PM ET | Comments (82)
Formations and Transgressions
With Gonzalo Martinez possibly out with a hamstring injury, how would you like to see DCU line up tomorrow? Back to 4-4-2? McTavish and Peralta in the middle and Quaranta on the right flank of midfield? Stay with three in the back with Burch joining Peralta and Namoff? While you...
By Steve Goff | April 16, 2008; 03:04 PM ET | Comments (62)
Martinez Injured and DCU Notes
*DCU defender Gonzalo Martinez felt tightness in his hamstring at training yesterday, did not work out today and will be a game-time decision tomorrow. I would not count on him starting against Columbus, but we'll see. *Ailing midfielder Ben Olsen is heading to Delaware today to be examined by a...
By Steve Goff | April 16, 2008; 12:27 PM ET | Comments (25)
The Pope in D.C.
Pope Benedict XVI arrives in Washington today, so on this historic occasion, the Insider offers you a look at some of the Pope's greatest moments. Please share your memories, as well. Bless you, Insider loyalists....
By Steve Goff | April 15, 2008; 01:02 PM ET | Comments (30)
Moose Watch
[updated] Third-year midfielder Justin Moose, a former first-round draft pick who earned a developmental deal this preseason after D.C. United declined to exercise the option on his previous contract, was waived. He has been with the Vancouver Whitecaps for the past week and is now free to sign with the...
By Steve Goff | April 15, 2008; 11:05 AM ET | Comments (23)
DCU Update
Francis Doe, a 22-year-old Liberian forward who had two goals in eight appearances for the Red Bulls last year, is on trial with United. The club has two open roster spots. GM Dave Kasper also tells me he'll know more about midfielder Justin Moose's status today or tomorrow. Moose, who...
By Steve Goff | April 14, 2008; 12:01 PM ET | Comments (33)
DCU-RSL Aftermath
Some quick thoughts (and player ratings) before I get a few hours' sleep and catch a flight home..... *Why start a young, back-up goalkeeper in his first MLS match on the road on that field? Remember what happened last year with Jay Nolly? I'm not comparing Jose Carvallo to Nolly...
By Steve Goff | April 13, 2008; 12:36 AM ET | Comments (48)
Matchday: DCU at RSL
Greetings from Salt Lake City. Gorgeous spring day on the Wasatch Front: deep blue sky, snow-capped mountains, temps around 60, light breeze. While I, nor anyone else, will miss Rice-Eccles' artificial turf or excessive capacity, you can't beat the view from the upper levels of the hilltop stadium on the...
By Steve Goff | April 12, 2008; 08:05 PM ET | Comments (118)
'We're a Folk-Singing Group From Salt Lake City'
[updated with Fire news, Mexico roster, charity event] Greetings from the Wasatch Front. No wedding crashing this weekend. No venture capitalists from New Hampshire. Sadly, no Rachel McAdams either. Just futbol. United (the airline, not the MLS club) apologizes for my day-long absence. (The connection from Denver was ready for...
By Steve Goff | April 11, 2008; 05:02 PM ET | Comments (22)
Broadcast News
Please don't take it wrong when I tell you that I believe that Tom, while a very nice guy, is the Devil. A 1987 flashback. Don't mind me. Important broadcast information for D.C. United's match at Real Salt Lake at 9 p.m. ET on Saturday night: Comcast SportsNet will provide...
By Steve Goff | April 10, 2008; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (63)
DCU-Pachuca Aftermath
United wins the match, but loses the series. Ain't football cruel? The late goals by Rod Dyachenko and Franco Niell were nice and kept United unbeaten at home against Mexican competition, but the missed opportunities in the first 85 minutes, combined with Damian Alvarez's strike, doomed United's effort. If you...
By Steve Goff | April 10, 2008; 01:08 AM ET | Comments (128)
Matchday: DCU-Pachuca
[updated with lineups] Greetings from RFK Stadium. (We'll avoid 'Estadio RFK' today -- can't let Pachuca get too comfortable in DCU's house, right?) Gorgeous day here along the banks of the mighty Anacostia. Nats fans looking for their shuttle to the ballpark/amusement park down river have been told they cannot...
By Steve Goff | April 9, 2008; 04:42 PM ET | Comments (149)
DCU Notes and Quotes
*Team captain Jaime Moreno , who injured a hamstring last month, rates his fitness level at 90 percent and Coach Tom Soehn is encouraged by his progress after playing him 45 minutes Saturday. "I see the confidence to be able to do that [run hard] the last couple days," Soehn...
By Steve Goff | April 8, 2008; 12:43 PM ET | Comments (96)
DCU Update
*MF Justin Moose has arrived in Vancouver. "He needs games," United GM Dave Kasper said. It's still unclear whether he is there on loan or transfer. Details will be finalized later this week, Kasper said. *In its final match before facing DCU on Wednesday in the second leg of the...
By Steve Goff | April 7, 2008; 10:04 AM ET | Comments (26)
Moose Crossing
Midfielder Justin Moose, who earned a roster spot with D.C. United after the club did not pick up the option on his contract in December, is leaving for the USL1 Vancouver Whitecaps, DCU confirmed today. Moose, a first-round pick from Wake Forest in the 2006 draft who is also an...
By Steve Goff | April 6, 2008; 06:46 PM ET | Comments (54)
DCU-TFC Aftermath
Two early goals, a flawed opponent, a red card, a comprehensive victory. Several outstanding performances, but on a night when the attack returned to form, I'll mix things up and go with Bryan Namoff as my man of the match. He timed his tackles exquisitely, distributed long balls out of...
By Steve Goff | April 6, 2008; 12:19 AM ET | Comments (79)
Matchday: DCU vs. TFC
[updated] Greetings from Estadio RFK. A few notes..... *Almost all of the Nationals signage inside the stadium has been replaced with DCU material. *DCU and Pachuca have had very preliminary discussions about entering into a partnership -- similiar to the one United has with Brazil's Atletico Mineiro -- and will...
By Steve Goff | April 5, 2008; 05:43 PM ET | Comments (65)
Quick Update From RFK
[updated with Soehn and Carvallo quotes] DCU's morning training session at Estadio RFK was closed to the media, a rarity so early in the season. Something's up. Carvallo gets the call in goal? Quaranta starts up front with Emilio? Moreno ready to return? Weather conditions for tomorrow's match here. Meantime,...
By Steve Goff | April 4, 2008; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (87)
More From RFK
United relinquished a first-round supplemental draft pick to acquire rookie defender Mike Zaher from Toronto FC. GM Dave Kasper said the club plans to sign him to a developmental contract. "He gives us some cover on the left side," Coach Tom Soehn said. "When we watched him [at the scouting...
By Steve Goff | April 3, 2008; 01:19 PM ET | Comments (36)
Moreno's Thoughts
Jaime Moreno, who has not played since injuring his hamstring early in the March 12 match at Harbour View, is hoping to play against Toronto FC this weekend. "I will probably play one half," he said. "So far, maybe that is the idea. We'll see how it goes." Was he...
By Steve Goff | April 3, 2008; 12:33 PM ET | Comments (14)
Zaher In, Cezar Out
I'm hearing that D.C. United and representatives for Brazilian forward Cezar (Atletico Mineiro) could not reach a deal and he has departed training camp. Detials to come. Meantime, United has acquired the rights to rookie defender Mike Zaher, a third-round pick from UCLA, from Toronto FC. He'll be on trial...
By Steve Goff | April 3, 2008; 11:14 AM ET | Comments (34)
DCU-Pachuca, The Aftermath
You didn't really think United, without Olsen's grit and Moreno's composure, was going to win in Mexico at 7,900 feet against a seasoned club with superior talent, did you? United held its own for 45 minutes, but in the second half while D.C. played conservatively and tried to escape with...
By Steve Goff | April 2, 2008; 01:09 AM ET | Comments (77)
Matchday: DCU-Pachuca II
Since the previous thread was getting a bit cluttered, I've created a new forum for tonight's match. Fire away, amigos!...
By Steve Goff | April 1, 2008; 09:02 PM ET |