We're Baaaaaaaack! (Again)
We have returned! Brief shout outs, talk about tasers, and a link to our first podcast after the jump!
AO President Korey Donahoo: The Interview
We promised you El Presidente of the American Outlaws, answers and the dirt on the VP. We gave you at least two of three. Or did we? You will have to read our target interview with Korey Donahoo, Cinco De Mustache aficionado.
ArseLona and Wolfham
So far this week I have been able to catch a couple of great matches in European competition. Here's what Biggy has to say:
BBM
Awkward and ambiguous sounding right? Well BBM here stands for Bet Biggy's Money! As I head for Vegas Thursday night to enjoy the Spring Break I won't have this year I offer up an opportunity for everyone else to get in on the action. I will throw out 4 $5 parlays with two stipulations: They must involve at least three teams per parlay, and they have to occur after I land Thursday night. So open for business is any EPL games this weekend, Friday March Madness, and any MLS action this weekend. Here are the lines for you to work with, try and keep your bets contained with each section, ie no mls+epl+ncaa parlay. If we lose, it happens. If we win, and we will, I will figure out something to reward you. I will take the best four parlays, and because I'm not sure if I can bet MLS at the MGM, know that figuring that out will be key to see if your bet goes through. Fire away, points for creativity and good reasoning. For NCAA i just need a winner or points, soccer bets i need winner or draw.
An Ode to Becks
I like David Beckham. His injury pains me, both as a fellow player who hates to see that happen to anyone, and as a fan who can appreciate the incredible lengths he has gone to so that he might be a sub in the World Cup later this year. That opportunity is now gone. Get well soon Becks, you might wear the Three Lions, but you transcend nationality when it comes to the love of the beautiful game, and the incredible effort you put in. However, I'll still be seeing you on the reg. I just saw you on TV last night playing. A miracle recovery? Not quite.
Required Reading: The Shin Guardian
Team Constantly Offside strives to bring you the best. We like to think that we bring you the best, however we recognize the fact that we are also the best at being inconsistent in the regularity of our posts. Strikingly inconsistently brilliant if you will, the John O'Brien of soccer coverage. To be straight up, it is tough as Chamo heads toward finals and Biggy has just moved to SF combined with our major technical problems leaves us with a bit of irregularity in posting schedules. So the least we can do is inform you of other soccer coverage that you can find us reading daily. We give to you the Tim Howard of soccer coverage, the ever consistent and stellar Shin Guardian. Our friends over at TSG provide stellar content daily that does nothing but impress and features like The Don't Tread Challenge, which is a series of awesome fan created USMNT videos, The Odds, The always clever Who's Getting a Boarding Pass to South Africa, which is always regularly updated (taking notes Soccernet?) and round tables that bring in different opinions and even your humble writer on occasion. To say that they are getting the job done would be an understatement, so we must recognize and highly recommend The Shin Guardian, and hope that you too will enjoy their stellar work. Much love to TSG and continue the stellar work.
The Not So Friendly
Tomorrow is an important day for ye ole USMNT. I'd give you a long drawn out preview, but my boy Tobin and I were just chatting it up and I think this expresses a majority of my thoughts and expresses my thankfulness both for facebook chat and for good friends who are intelligent soccer fans.
AO VP Justin Brunken: The Interview
We at Constantly Offside see ourselves as a tiny part of a much larger movement, the push to move soccer to the front of every American’s consciousness. As part of this goal, we get to interact with those who are making much more noise than ourselves, people who are leading the charge on a national stage. Justin Brunken, Vice President of the white-hot American Outlaws is one of these people. In LA, we got to see firsthand the sort of movement we want to both contribute to and be a part of, as the AO gathering was like the Constantly Offside crew, both in attitude and energy, but in numbers multiplied by the hundreds. We reached out to the ballerific Brunken, and he kindly responded to our questions, many of which are ridiculous. We do pride ourselves on giving you a new spin on information that you won’t get anywhere else, including the scoop on his love life (sorry ladies, you will have to settle for the oh so single Biggy or Chamo, as our boy Brunken is quite content). We break it down for you after the break…
Working for the Weekend Demps Style
It's the weekend. What does that mean? Stories in a visual form. Peep Dempsey in three starring roles: The background, the stadium grounds, and the battleground.
Robinho and Santos News
After an unimpressive stint at Man City, Robinho is back in Santos, the club he grew up playing with and the only club Pelé ever played for (excluding the NY Cosmos). According to the Brazilian newspaper Folha de São Paulo, "Robinho is back to being Robinho." I totally agree. Watching the highlights from the game you can tell that he is genuinely happy again and having fun, something rarely seen when he was at Man City. For entertaining players like Robinho and Denilson (not the Arsenal one but the WC98 one) one of the greatest attributes as players is fearlessness and happiness. When these skilled Brazilian players aren't happy playing they become insignificant as seen in both Robinho's and Denilson's stints at Man City and Real Betis respectively.
Making It
You can't beat the American Dream. HBO seems to have it on lock when it comes to dropping story lines that capture the spirit and the dreams of that dream, first with Entourage, which is by far my favorite show to hit television, and now with How To Make It in America. Shout out to ISPS over at The Original Winger, who allowed me to load this and watch it on the always joyous commute home. This has potential, with some sick young thespians, including that cute girl from the OC, who was also Ari's assistant and E's fling if I remember correctly (I usually don't). Nice of HBO to drop this on YouTube, I'm gonna have to follow this on a regular basis. Because really, just like Chamo, me, and soccer, who isn't trying to make it in America? Now if only this dude next to me would try to take a shower in America, it would be all good.
Secret is Out: Free Jerseys For Life!
So our friends at SoccerPro.com have done it again! Not only do they have great deals on soccer gear, but now they are offering you free kits for life! Check out the link and details after the jump!
Keeping it Crackin'
We at Constantly Offside enjoy many things outside of soccer, evident by some of our recent twitter posts. We also enjoy shouting out those doing it big. So when these two things come together, well, you just gotta post about it. My man DJ J-Verse is doing it down in SLO and he hit me up with this mix a couple weeks ago. It is fresh to death and it has been running on loop at work, in the car, and even in the shower ever since. I mean who doesn't like to bump it in the shower? You can scoop a copy right here, hopefully he will pop up on twitter or the book soon so you can show him your love.
The (USMNT) State of the Union
Stealing from a slightly more important fellow, and a much more important idea, I give you the State of the Union address for the US national team. Just like our country, the national team is headed for a pivotal year, and the word that makes the world go round is hope. Without further Adu, I give you the State of the Union. Oh yeah, that's right Chamo I just appointed myself El Presidente, and I'm giving the address too. So you can suck it. I'm quite confident that is the first time "You can suck it" was used as a lead in to a SOTU. Constantly Offside, number one in your hearts and in ridiculousness.
Get Red
Seriously, drop four bucks, get involved, throw them on your shoes and ball out. It's easy peasy lemon squeezy.
More info after the jump.
Depth Charge
The game played in the HDC, not the LBC this weekend was just that, a depth charge. How would the US react to playing against a side that was starting some of its World Cup qualifying side with little experience and star power behind it? They were rocked by the explosion. Filled with little and great big holes, the US side was pretty much trounced on an occasion that could have been a spectacular learning experience. Some tidbits before I get down to what was really important in this game.
Match Report: Tottenham v Man City
So after a hectic day trying to get across London from Stansted to Gatwick in the middle of the night, I'm finally back home in Iceland. Snow delays in Madrid and London made me miss my connecting flight; however, it also gave me time to write this game report in Gatwick airport on the 22nd. Here it is:
The Year of the Whiner
The year is winding to a close, and the wonderful holiday season is upon us (though I have done no gift shopping as of yet...). This past year has been filled with controversy, though perhaps some may argue no more than any other season, but what has increased rather unfortunately, is managerial whining. The key culprits of the past season, as they seem to be every year, are Mr. Benitez, Mr. Wenger, and Sir Alex Ferguson.
An Arsenal Collection
Just a fabulous look into life as an Arsenal youngster (which Chamo would identify as any player ever affiliated with Arsenal and all of the current squad included) in the Academy and a very worthwhile read or set of reads if you will.
EPL Round 17 Predictions
Between the two of us we tend to make a considerable number of errors. Last week we totaled three correct results... our worst showing of the season. Along with that, we failed to include the eight midweek games, so this will be posted earlier than anticipated due to our lapse (and Biggy, you have till noon to send me your picks, because its your fault).
The Goal of the Year
Hands down. No goal will touch this one. Watch the entire video.
My reasoning after the jump.
Dear Fernando
You seem to be forgetful. You said this recently - Torres also looked further ahead to World Cup next summer where he says Spain would relish the chance to face the United States, England's opening opponents.
EPL Round 16 Predictions
A terrible week for just about anything (it is finals week here at Cal Poly) means that our posts are slow. We haven't even managed to put up a post about the World Cup draw yet, which is incredibly disappointing. But, predicts are a weekly work, and we just can't skip them, even if it means Chamo will fail Physics.
MLS Cup Recap: Day Two: Creepin Seattle
Day Two of MLSCUPADVENTURE lead us to a breakfast place in downtown Bothell, which is about 15 minutes outside Seattle. Shawn and I had a lovely romantic breakfast which included us talking lots of shit to each other about pretty much every subject including: who was going to pay for the meal, whos meal would be better, why California is better then any other state, why Shawn's life is so great, why Seattle still sucks more then San Jose (MLS Cups sir, MLS Cups, let's count and compare) and other things that now escape me but seemed quite worthwhile. The big debate was how we both thought the Pina Colada pancakes looked quite tasty, however I manned up and ordered them while he hid in a corner and ordered blueberry pancakes. To both of our surprise, we each ended up with Blueberry Pineapple pancakes that were quite tasty, however I ended up victorious because mine came with delicious Coconut whip cream, and I would not share with poor Shawn.
EPL Round 15 Predictions
Though the biggest news comes from the International stage on this day, we must never fail to provide our predictions. Biggy slumped again, and Chamo didn't fare much better, but still maintains his spot top of the table (is it really a table if there are only two competing?). Get your predicts in!
Constantly Offside Mock WC Draw
Our first World Cup pool mock draw has officially been completed, and two letters reign true. D is for Death, and F is for effing France. I'll give you a look deep inside of Constantly Offside's brain trust here. Our draft used the finest RNG that google search listed first, and a foolproof method known as "Chamo, reassign the teams". Enjoy our banter and analysis below.
The Most Important Day of 2009
It only comes around once every four years. It's the biggest day of them all. I have been dreading it and yet am hopefully optimistic about it, but could not be more nervous for it. You might think, the World Cup is still months away, what the hell are you yammering about? It's the day that decides the fates and fortunes of so many teams that are in the World Cup, the day of the draw. The day that my soul will fly to the heavens or be crushed like it was in 2006.
SoccerPro.com Brings the Sexy
So, I love shoes. As a soccer player, you appreciate your feet a lot more then most people do, because you realize how important it is to take care of them. This is especially true when it comes to cleats and other shoes you play in. Recently I was asked to join a team that plays on turf in San Francisco and after playing in my Adidas Goodyears for a game and sliding around the pitch like a slip n slide, I realized it was time for some new shoes.
EPL Round 14 Predictions
Happy Thanksgiving to all our readers in the States, the holiday season has us posting our predicts a day later than usual, but hopefully we get it up in time for all of you. An even week between the two of us has Chamo in raptures, as his title dreams are coming closer and closer by the week. Hull managed to upset the system a bit, but can they keep up their run to stay in the Prem?
Friday: The Cup Beckons (MLS Cup Recap)
So I was fortunate enough to travel to Seattle for my first MLS cup this past weekend and it was a spectacular experience that I was so lucky to participate in. I took my camera and hopefully can share some of the best parts of the weekend via both pictures and words, as neither quite describes the majesty and awesomeness that this weekend was. I'll break it up by day so it's a bit more manageable and readable, and hopefully worthwhile.
EPL Round 13 Predictions
We have to post this a bit earlier than usual, so we hope you all find this even if it gets smothered by the mass of posts Chamo is dumping at the last minute before he leaves for Phoenix for the rest of the week, but the predicts must go on! Biggy returned, to form, and Chamo floundered a bit, but no one got close to touching the impressive display our reader Brett put in. 3 correct scorelines is a feat in its own Brett, keep up the good work!
CPSC Going to Nationals!
There were some tense moments as the Cal Poly Men's Soccer Club crashed out of the Regional tournament, despite not losing a game. It only took one day for that tension to disappear, as the call came in that they had received an at-large bid to the Championship division of the NIRSA Tournament down in Phoenix, Arizona.
Brief USMNT Scoop
US news pre-friendly with a depleted Danish side, as a depleted US side looks to show the fringe strength...or lack thereof. The two things I was looking forward to most were seeing Jose Francisco Torres and Edgar Castillo both get some serious play time now does not look to happen as Torres has begged off international duty for personal reasons. Best of luck to him and whatever he is dealing with. Hopefully Bob gives Castillo a shot at starting at left back, regardless of the outcome, I think he deserves a look. Johnny B and Heath have both gotten considerable looks in non important games this summer and fall, and both have been less then convincing. Give Edgar the rock!
Who Will Replace Bob Bradley?
In typical Constantly Offside style, Chamo and I were reunited briefly over Halloween as I made the venture down to glorious San Luis Obispo. After an impromptu rendezvous at Taco Bell late Saturday evening/early Sunday morning that Chamo was not so pleased about, we decided to enjoy some lunch together at the Stone. Now generally our lunches are decided by FIFA09, however I was too hungry with my slight hangover to want to play before we got to eat. Off to Firestone we went, where they were not showing the right type of football, but what can you do. After a delicious lunch, it was business time.
The Debate: UEFA Playoff Seeding
Oh boy. FIFA has gone and done it again. The UEFA playoffs have been seeded and something seems a little fishy... Chamo will give you some background to bring you up to date, and then off we go!
Kenjo's 1st EPL Match Challenge
So I've been planning on heading to Madrid this December break and I want to make the most out of my $400 plane ticket and I'm going to have to stop by in London on the way so the deal is this:
American Outlaws - Bay Area Chapter
So I wanted to share this with the public, hopefully to help get the word out. I received this email last week and felt that CO could help give it the audience it deserves. A brave soul has taken up the task of putting together a Yay Area chapter of the American Outlaws, and I'm quite pleased to A) spread the word and B) be a member. So if you want to spend some quality time with the brain behind Constantly Offside, read up and shoot my man Andrew an email.
Rock The Vote: MLS Edition
MLS postseason award time. Get your vote in. So many dirty plays, so little time.
Match Report: Cal Poly v UCSB
It took me three days to write this report, but not for any of the reasons you may be expecting. It wasn't that I was sulking about in defeat, avoiding the inevitable report, or that I was on such a high from beating the #4 team in the US. No, instead it took me three days because I simply did not have enough material from the match to write a worthy report. An unfortunate truth about the sport of soccer is simply that sometimes games are uninteresting, boring draws. This was one of those cases.
EPL Round 12 Predictions
A stunning return to form from Chamo saw him grab an impressive three correct scores last week, and launched him into a comfortable lead over Biggy, who is still struggling (and consequently still not writing explanations for his predictions). Round 12 has the meaty matchup of the two heavyweights at the top of the league, Manchester United versus Chelsea at the Bridge.
Cal Poly v UCSB Preview
Tomorrow night the two top squads in the Big West will be pitted against each other in a match that has league title implications. After Cal Poly's devastating loss to Davis over the weekend, the Gauchos down in Santa Barbara are in sole possesion of first place, having been in a dead heat with the Mustang's up to that point.
The EPL You Missed This Weekend
Hope everyone had a spectacular weekend, Halloween has to be one of the most entertaining holidays around if nothing else. Props to everyone who went all out with their costumes, my Lil Wayne fitter wasn't quite up to the high standards of years previous that I have set but sometimes you gotta go with the flow. Village People '10 is gonna be crackin, now it is all about execution. In case your weekend was as busy as mine, you might have missed some great soccer. I managed to catch a bunch of the MLS playoffs, which I will probably recap tomorrow, as they may be the best thing on TV right now. Here is some EPL goodness to tide you over though, the three best games after the jump.
EPL Round 11 Predictions
We had a combined four correct results last week. That's 4/20, or a massive 20% correct. Even worse was that Biggy only contributed one of those four, leaving him as the worst performer of the year thus far. You readers barely out did us, with a three way tie for first as three of you managed to choose three correct results and one correct scoreline, which was still dismal, considering the results of past weeks. Time for redemption, especially if you are Biggy, at least there are 11 matches in this one.
FIFA 10 Review
Out for just over a week now here in the US, the game soccer enthusiasts worldwide wait for at the beginning of every new season has returned with great success. Last year, FIFA 09 was majestically produced, and a great improvement on 08, however it had many quirks that fans worldwide wanted to see fixed. So far 10 has not only stepped up to the challenge, it has surpassed it on so many levels.
Manglers, CPFC, Regionals and Updates
So we have slowed down a bit here at Constantly Offside, with some good reason, but I return to pick up the pace and inform you all on many different topics, ranging from our recent sponsorship of the new 2009 Mustang Manglers T-shirts, Biggy being productive, our worst ever week of predictions, club soccer updates as well as some news from around the world.
Ye Olde MLS Playoff Picture and Predictions
Saturday was an awesome day to be an MLS fan. I spent the day on the couch watching games with major playoff implications and I was quite impressed. The two main games that I caught were RSL-Colorado and Seattle-Dallas. Each of these games was action packed, and the level of soccer and the intensity that MLS teams play with were on display. A legit offensive outburst from RSL helped them lock up a playoff spot, and the multinational front four of Seattle combined to score a gorgeous goal that sent FC Dallas packing. That left us with the MLS playoff picture as follows.
Match Report: Real Madrid v AC Milan
In a match pitting two GI-normous clubs against each other – a match up that you could expect to see in a Champs League final – Real Madrid Hosted AC Milan at the Bernabeu.
Both teams seemed tentative going into this match and if you were to take the game as a whole Real had the bulk of the possession and chances by a slight margin. The play-level of the game didn’t really match the hype.
EPL Round 10 Predictions
After an enthralling week of Champions League football, we return to the grind of the Premiership. What better way to come back than to the ever brutal match between Liverpool and Manchester United? Not only is this a vital top-4 pairing, but it holds some significant weight as well. One more loss for Liverpool here would spell five straight for the Reds and could mean the end of Rafa's reign. It also puts them well beyond reach of top spot and in a vital struggle to even hold on for the coveted fourth position with the way Tottenham and Manchester City are going. Here's how we think things will play out:
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What We Can Learn From Barcelona
I sat down Saturday to take a look at a game from a different perspective. Normally I'm a pretty intense game watcher anyway, focusing on ball movement and position along with passing and goals, but I figured maybe I could learn something from watching what is inevitably the best team in the world at this point. What does Barcelona do that we can teach our youth, that we can pass on to create players that play at levels that Barcelona does. How can I compare and contrast the Barcelona Valencia game and the Galaxy Houston game and how is the MLS improving? Both games were very interesting even though they ended in draws, and I felt like some things stood out that are critical to teach our young players.
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EPL Round 9 Predictions
Here we go. A day late due to Biggy, but here they are. We realize many of you won't get your picks in on time, but feel free to throw them up here, regardless of how much we suck at posting our content in a timely fashion. What's your match of the week?Read More
Match Report: Iceland v South Africa
In front of a crowd of 3,253 – pretty weak for an international, even a friendly – Iceland pulls off the surprise win, 1-0.
I was honestly looking forward to this game for the past month, as it is one of the rare opportunities to see a national team match on this tiny island called Iceland. What do I get for my patience? Not much from either team.
So why write about this game when it is merely a blip on the international football scene (clearly overshadowed by Argentina’s, Portugal’s, etc. title hopes)? Well, because seeing how this year’s host country treats its crucial warm up matches is important. We all, irrespective of who we are rooting for, don’t want to see the host team get killed.If that were to happen, it would be a huge shame being the first WC tourney played on African soil. Read More
Bad News Bears - Charlie Davies
In what has to be one of the most unfortunate stories this year, US national teamer Charlie Davies, who this year has awed fans both at home and abroad was in a car crash early this morning. We at Constantly Offside wish to pass along our prayers and condolences not only to Charlie and his family and friends, but those of the young lady who died and the driver who is also in the hospital and both of their families and friends. This is tragic, and life altering for all parties involved. At this point we know Davies is in serious but stable condition after fracturing multiple bones in his right leg among other injuries, and multiple hours of surgery. We wish the best to Charlie for a speedy and stanky recovery. It looks like he will miss next year's World Cup.
More Questions than Answers for USMNT
Apologies for the delay, but as Biggy promised I have delivered my match report. Besides the enormous trouble I had finding a consistent feed that didn’t make all the players look the same (I was convinced Bocanegra was called for the handball, not Holden and they don’t look remotely alike) I have to admit even I found the match entertaining. It was so riveting for me because it managed to prove every single point I see wrong with the USMNT, all the while managing to keep Biggy from wallowing in pain for the rest of the year if they had failed to clinch a berth to Africa.
Taking it Back
So the US has clinched a spot in the grandest tournament of them all. They did it away, against a pretty solid team. I'm impressed. Certainly centerback and center mid have some things to be worked out, but that is what time is for. Now myself and all the other US fans don't have to go through a gut wrenching Wednesday game against Costa Rica. Not that this one wasn't gut wrenching enough. Chamo was kind enough to text updates, and I had other plans for the evening that didn't allow me to watch the game. Probably better that way, as I take US games pretty seriously and they put me on an emotional rollercoaster. I chuckle at people who talk about their team and how much they love them, because soccer fans passion is so much greater then fans of any other sport. It is the truth. So instead of giving you a recap of the game, which hopefully Chamo will do instead, I'd rather give you some posts on the USMNT that I have written across a couple blogs in this qualifying period. Be warned, it's long.
Cometh the Moment, Cometh the Man
As we approach what certainly feels like the most important qualifier, scratch that, qualifiers of my life, I must admit I am torn. You see, I love the national team with all my being. If I had to pick one team in any sport to follow and never watch another team again, it would be them, my red white and blue that I bleed somewhere deep near my soul. However, it is my vow to at least cover them relatively objectively, and to be quite frank, I am scared for them. For myself. I plan on attending the World Cup next summer but without the US in it, I do not think I really could make that trip. It would make my heart break, me attending the game's biggest stage while my team sits at home. Now this certainly seems pessimistic, but it is not to be that way, but more to show the passion and what I have riding on these games. I have dreamed of World Cup 2010 since my senior year of high school, and yet I would give it all up if I cannot proudly fly the flag of the Red White and Blue. So Chamo, time to start cheering for the land of the free and the home of the brave unless you plan on being as soul crushed next summer as I would be if they do not qualify.
For Text Updates During the USMNT v Honduras Game:
E-mail Chamo@ConstantlyOffside.com and we will add you to the list.
Best Week Ever: Thomas Vermaelen
Just like VH1, I like to recognize those having the Best Week Ever. Except when we hand out a best week ever award, it actually means that they did something worthwhile. This week our award goes to Arsenal centerback and somehow leading scorer Thomas Vermaelen, who is making such noise in the Premiership, every single fantasy team owner is kicking themselves for passing up on the Belgian.
What You Need To Know This Weekend
In the absence of our weekly predicts I am forced to use the time I typically spend incorrectly guessing about the weekend’s scores writing a legitimate article. Luckily, the lack of Premiership matches does not mean there is a lack of news bits to talk about. Here is a brief rundown on the coming international week, as well as some news bits that may interest you.
Adidas, Anton and Painful Outcomes
So Adidas looks like they are doing good stuff again. I generally like their commercials, but this looks like it is gonna be a series and what a dope one it looks to be. I'm a bit of a good animation junkie especially when it comes to soccer, and Adidas loves pushing the boundaries of new media with soccer which i really like. Scope "The Powerhouse":
USMNT, Poly Preview and EPL Musings
Another week where I have a gut feeling about a game, but just can't man up and pull the trigger. Seriously, I need to man up already. I seem to ramble about this, but it is either the parity in the EPL or the fact I just don't think either Manchester United or Liverpool are that good, but I wrote down 2-2 Sunderland vs United and then changed it. Even though I really didn't want to. Ugh. It's frustrating when you second guess yourself, even more so when you then don't actually get it right. I think in this game it had to be the relative strength of Sunderland instead of just pure weakness from United. Sunderland is clearly here to play and will torch you with Bent and Jones if you aren't prepared. I'll talk more about this parity in a bit, but goodness.
Match Report: Sevilla v Real Madrid
Madrid suffered their first loss of the season last night, and deservedly so. They weren't as amazing as they've looked in their previous fixtures, which was quite disappointing given their newly acquired talent. Although missing CR7 (or should I say CR9 now?), out from an injury occurring in a Champs League match midweek, Los Galacticos shouldn't have any excuse for their result.
Match Report: Cal Poly v UC Davis
I must admit rather disappointingly that this was my first trip to watch the boys play at home. They awarded me with a well fought battle against bitter conference rivals UC Davis in a match up that constantly produces rough-and-tumble games. I made it to the field just after half time (another disappointment) to learn that we were up 1-0. This is how the next events took place:
Introducing the Newly Minted Donatello
It all started innocuously enough. Chamo gave me a ring on the cell to let me know that Stuart Holden tweeted back at us about our post and subsequent tweet that he was one of our favorite Twitter users. I asked Chamo if he was on gchat and we continued our discussion there covering some business items. Our business items primarily go like this. First, we start talking about things like BallHype and how Google ignores our site in its free time and how we can't figure out why it doesn't like us. Then it quickly proceeded to the real business at hand, where Chamo began talking trash about how bad he was going to beat me in FIFA10, and how I would soon be owing him lunch, quite likely a tasty ABC burger from Firestone in San Luis Obispo. Quickly it escalated to me telling Chamo what a joke of a business partner that he is and that my back hurts almost every day, from carrying the team. I believe he responded with telling me that he is Constantly Offside. It then got abrasive as he asked if it was too early to congratulate himself on calling the fact that Oguchi Onyewu would likely ride the bench at AC Milan and I expressed my disappointment in the fact that I no longer live close enough to him where I can get to his house in a moment's notice, tell him he right, because he loves when anyone strokes his enormous ego, and then punch him in the face for good measure. In that moment however, there was a breakthrough. I discovered Onyewu's problems at Milan and the solution all in one moment of brilliance.
Club Matches and Chamo's Return!
After complaining incessantly about my lack of posts, Biggy has managed to get me to finally find some time and write an article. It’s finally the weekend, but it’s a busy weekend for me here at Cal Poly, where my Club team boys have two big games, one at Santa Barbara (inside their stadium!) Saturday at 7:00 PM and then another on Sunday at 10:00 AM against UC Davis on our home turf. Not only are these huge games for the team, but for myself as I get my first start of the season on Sunday against the Aggies. I really recommend coming and seeing either of the games if you are in the area, I think many people would be surprised at the level of college club soccer, especially in these two high profile matches.
I See You Napping in Your Cube
So it is Friday and you are chilling in your office/cube/class/house bored waiting for that sweet happy hour/cocktail party/kegger/nap that soon awaits you. Let us help you get through this Friday with some reading that will give you updates on all things soccer.
EPL Round 8 Predictions
We are getting exponentially worse at predictions as we go along and last week neither of us were aided by the blowout scores and ridiculous performances by Liverpool, Tottenham and Wigan. Still, our readers seem to have some clue what they are doing, so continue to send in your predicts and make us look bad. At this point, you really can't do any worse than we are.
Tweety Bird What's the Word?
The growth of interest in soccer in America has lead to a unique relationship between what is rapidly becoming the most popular social media outlet and the beautiful game. Today is the day of instant information and then immediate analysis of said information, especially when it comes to major sports in the US. However, soccer still does not get that level of attention from the media, particularly when it comes to television and major sporting website coverage. Even the Fox Soccer Report, which is essentially soccer's own SportsCenter is hindered by licensing and rights to show highlights of games that have occurred, meanwhile they lag almost 12 hours behind when EPL games are early Saturday morning and one might not get a full scope of highlights until that evening US time. This has helped spawn the growing reliance on the internet to keep up with what is going on with both matches and players abroad, particularly those who may be of interest based on their relevance to the future of the USMNT. This is where this curious relationship between soccer fans in the United States and Twitter begins.
USMNT Honduras List of Televisors
You can now find a list of where the USMNT game is going to be shown in a little less then two weeks. The site http://www.copatvonline.com/ is giving a list of places the game can be seen across the states. Scope it here and find out where your friendly nearby USMNT game retailer will be. If they aren't charging a cover, run up a big bar tab as a thank you. If they are, run one up anyway to support those who support our national team.
