9.30.2009
NSR: SDR on Jimmy Fallon
Sunny Day Real Estate is back and with the original line-up. Last night they were on Fallon, and I was on cloud nine. Dare I say it, but this was probably one of the best things to come out of the 90's not named Christina Applegate.
Extra Time: Episode 32 Act 2
Day 2 of Shep-Strike 2009™. It is also day 2 of "SF Has Been Almost Too Busy To Blog™".
9.29.2009
Video: Inside Highbury's Houses
How insane is this? It's one thing to hear that they are making flats out of a stadium, something else entirely to see the finished product. The garden looks a little cluttered for a kickabout but I think that might be on purpose.
ESPN's Outsourcing Update
Sorry for the lack of posts today; trying to juggle a lot of stuff at the moment. But Janusz will talk to you...he's got plenty to say.
Labels:
Clint Dempsey,
ESPN,
Jozy Altidore,
Tim Howard,
Video
MLS Final Kick Week 28
Jeff Cunningham is tied with Conor Casey for the Golden Boot; should Bob Bradley give him a look as well?
Labels:
Conor Casey,
ESPN,
Jeff Cunningham,
MLS,
Video
9.28.2009
Have I Done a Jozy Post This Week?

No? Not yet? Well here you go then. Chuck Culpepper of "Bloddy Confused"-fame caught up with The Boy King of New York & Jersey™ over a Trans-Atlantic telephone line and turned in a tale of imported BMW's, late-night Lakers games on TV and the American dream. If you have the time or don't feel like working, give it a read at LATimes.com.
Labels:
Americans Outsourced to Europe,
Hull,
Jozy Altidore,
US Men
Video: Behind the Scenes of U.S.-TNT
More behind the scenes dopeness from U.S. Soccer. This time we get to see what it was really like down in TNT. I love how they get their clothes laid out for them before the game like it's the 1st day of school; very nice of the Fed to let all of their moms travel with the team.
All You Ever Wanted to Know About the Union But Were Afraid to Ask

You most likely read that Philadelphia's MLS entry will begin the 2010 season on the road for both home and away games. If that has left you wondering exactly what is the state of the Union, Philly.com has an interview with the Notorious C.E.O, Nick Sakiewicz, that will get you all caught up on what's what out in Chester.
In other Philadelphia news, Pat's still rules over Gino's (that's right, I said it).
9.25.2009
"Dude WTF? Mo Over There Wild'n."

"Dude WTF? Mo Over There Wild'n." That is how our man FERENGI® put it in an email this afternoon and it seems like a fairly accurate description. It seems that the former TFCer has quickly become something of a Scots tabloid favorite despite seeing little of the field. Yes America, we truly have arrived on the world stage.
This week has to be his high-water mark to date. For the ladies and homosexualists he's appearing topless in No.1 Magazine, which we're told (by them) is "The must-read magazine for all Scottish Women". And for the "glamour models or erotic dancers", there is a very compelling report in The Scottish Sun on Mo's prolific/promiscuous Twitter habits complete with "a look at Edu's Top Ten Twitter followers" (of which is Nyla B. is most suited to my oh-so-discerning taste).
Then there is the "exclusive" in the Scots edition of News of the World. Check the headline below and tell me you don't want to read it just a little, itty-bitty, pocket-sized Ritchie Williams bit.

It's a pretty tawdry read but a lot of us are pretty tawdry people so get stuck into what might be the first printed tale of an alleged "get it & quit it" by an American Outsourced to Europe™. At this rate dude will be photographed falling out of a nightclub, accused of a training ground bust-up and sleeping over at Paris Hilton's place by Christmas. Well maybe not the last one because Paris Hilton isn't down with brown but watch out cuz Mo is heading big, big things.
Labels:
Americans Outsourced to Europe,
Gossip,
Maurice Edu
"Get Some Nuts!"
Quite possibly the best commercial ever to feature footie, Mr. T, a tank and a candybar.
In Case You Missed It: Chivas USA v. CD Chivas of Gaudalajara
This is the North American soccer equivalent of black-on-black crime.
Financial Soccer: No Middle Eastern Sheiks or Russian Oil Tycoons Were Harmed in the Making of This Video Game
Do you think Wu-Tang Financial would still be in business if they had a video game?
NSR: Washed Out "Feel It All Around"
Nicked from my brother from another mother, Kevin@FFSS, it's a fine visual interpretation of the undisputed champ of summer comedown records for 2009. Even if you're not feeling the Friday morning languid, autumnal vibe you must purchase A Life of Leisure today; you may not get it now but Sunday morning this will make soooo much sense.
9.24.2009
Behind the Scenes in El Salvador with Jonathon Spector Pt.2
Part 2 of US Soccer's peek behind the USMNT curtain while on the road to World Cup 2010. And in case you missed part 1 it can be found here.
Now Portland, Why You Wanna Bring Up Old Stuff?
Beef never dies, it just goes on hiatus. Don't believe me? Double click the pic.
Hull City Magazine's Quasi-Exclusive Jozy Altidore Interview

The October issue of City Magazine, the official glossy mag of Hull City AFC, has a nice, semi-exclusive interview with Jozy Altidore that you should check out if you've got the time and inclination. I say semi-exclusive because they've given it over to TheOffside.com so it's not really as exclusive as they say it is. That's actually a good thing though since you can't really link to a magazine and otherwise we'd never get to read it then would we? So to recap that's New Media 3 - Old Media nil.
Labels:
Americans Outsourced to Europe,
Hull,
Jozy Altidore,
US Men
Video: A Rare Interview with Franklin Foer
Remember a few years ago when "How Soccer Explains the World" came out and everyone thought Franklin Foer was the next Simon Kuper? For 8 minutes and 9 seconds you can relive those heady times once again courtesy of the CBC. Thanks Canada!
Video: First Fans Select Seats At Red Bull Arena
Going once, going twice, sold! To the man in the hard hat with the patience of a saint.
Fulham: A Proper Football Club
If there were ever to be an Academy Award for Best Dramatic Youtube Clip - Soccer Catergory this would have to be it's inaugural recipient. Obviously I didn't grow up with the club but as someone who had the honor and privilege of frequenting Craven Cottage when there were still terraces and Eddie Lewis was occupying the role of "Little-Used American" currently being played by Eddie Johnson, this really affected me. No matter where your club allegiances lie, this is powerful stuff; if you can make it through all 6 minutes without almost crying into your keyboard you are a robot. Or Jim Rome.
Get Yo Scrilla Right With Landon Donovan
Never listen to your cousin Pookie when it comes to how to stack your paper. That combination carwash/hookah bar in Van Nuys that he wants you to invest in just isn't the best idea. In years past, Wu-Tang Financial would have been the go-to guys but their portfolio just isn't as attractive as it once was (Seen any Wu-Wear stores lately? Didn't think so.).
So in These Tough Economic Times™ who can you trust now to protect your financial neck? Landon Donovan and a coffee can under your matress.
Labels:
LA Galaxy,
Landon Donovan,
US Men,
Video
9.23.2009
Extra Time: Episode 31 Act 2
With special guest Brian McBride live from one of my old haunts, the Soho Grand Hotel.
Labels:
Brian McBride,
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
The Future of U.S. According to Lando
Listen closely at around the 1:13 mark. Is someone or something (a rented mule perhaps) getting whipped in the background? Where was this interview conducted? A leather bar?
Labels:
ESPN,
Landon Donovan,
US Men,
Video
Video: Lego Prison Soccer Riot
If only I had enough time on my hands to do something this involved. Mind you I would do something else with the time but still it'd be nice to know that I had the option to create and destroy pitches, prisons and whatever else I saw fit all with the aid of small, plastic choking hazards.
Video: Aussie's Drop World Cup 2018 Bid Hateration on USA
I have had a long-standing love affair with many, but not all, things Australian for quite a bit. They're kind of like the Texans of the Commonwealth; in my experience they're generally a happy lot that possess something of a pioneer spirit, can run a mean ranch, they can BBQ and they've produced some of the finest specimens of the female form ever to grace God's creation. I am also still currently obsessed with all manner of Antipodean indie-disco from Cut Copy to Empire of the Sun to PNAU to Ladyhawke to that new rocker from Midnight Juggernauts.
But all of that good stuff falls to the side, when it comes to securing the bid for World Cup 2018. I know it's some cold sh*t, but when it comes to this issue we are not friends. And by the looks of the video above they feel the same way. So feel free to counter the negativity with some positivity and visit GoUSABid.com and sign the petition if you haven't already. And if you feel the need to do a little something more may I suggest a full-stop boycott of Outback Steakhouse.
Video: Houston Beats Arabe Unido Like a Rented Mule
"Beaten like a rented mule" is a phrase that I have never understood. Who rents mules? What sort of coverage do you need as a renter? Are beatings covered under the insurance and is that why some hard-hearted, criminal S.O.B. would feel OK with committing such a despicable act? These are all questions that I may never know the answer to.
I do know the answer to the question of whether or not Houston would bounce back in CONCACAF Champions League play after their loss to Pachuca last week. That answer is five resounding "yes"'s; one for each goal that put past a punch-less Panamanian side.
9.22.2009
Extra Time: Episode 31 Act 1
Jason the Producer is engaged. Congrats cousin...now start saving. Matrimony is expensive.
Labels:
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
Video: From Rancid to Real
It is widely known around Utah punk & footie circles that Rancid's Branden Steineckert is kindasortamaybe into RSL just a little bit. And maybe on certain days he's a little bit of a D.C. United fan as well but we won't ask too many questions because we all know this whole "who do you support?"-thing can get as complex and complicated as season 3 of Lost.
So here we find the former drummer for The Used --I know, I know but we all have a past-- just laid up at the Rio Tinto with RSL's keeper Nick Rimando. I'm sure they have a lot to talk about as keepers are like the drummers of a soccer team: they are all a little nuts, they spend their time on the job looking at the back of their co-workers and if they screw up it all falls apart for the rest of the side.
Labels:
Music,
Nick Rimando,
Real Salt Lake,
RSL,
Video
Video: Another Old School Mix...With Raul Diaz Arce
When it rains, it pours some sugar me. Wait, what?
Labels:
Back in the Day,
DC United,
Geriatrics,
MLS,
Video
Video: An Old-School Mix with Mauricio Cienfuegos
Should Charlie Sheen get the lead role in the never-to-be-released Mauricio Cienfuegos biopic? I don't know if he can actually play --and that really doesn't matter because there will be stunt doubles for that part-- but sweet, holy God in heaven has he got the look down pat.
MLS Final Kick Week 27
There is always an award for "goal of the week" and "player of the week" but I think Houston and RSL made a case for a "Game of the Week" award; a thriller like that needs to be noticed.
9.21.2009
NSR: Julian Casablancas' "11th Dimension"

Julian Casablancas of The Stroke is putting out a solo record next month, partially because he can, partially because pretty much everyone else in that band has and partially because it's kinda good. The lead off track is the upbeat, Casio-rock joint "11th Dimension". Stream it below or at Myspace.
Video: Steve Nash's Showdown in Downtown
After the success of the Showdown in Chinatwon, Stevie Nash has decided to take the show(down) out west to Vancouver. Highlights and inteviews in the clip above, including an appearance by one of the best players ever to grace MLS, Youri Djorkaeff, in the 7th minute.
Labels:
Basketball,
Canuckistan,
Steve Nash,
The French,
Vancouver Whitecaps,
Video,
Youri Djorkaeff
PressPass on Americans Outsourced to Europe
Is it ironic that Soccernet only uses foreigners to discuss Americans playing overseas?
9.20.2009
DaMarcus Beasley Is The New Jacob The Jeweler

My dude Leroi just pointed out to me that our DaMarcus is diversifying his sh*t and getting into the diamond game. And why not? If he didn't do it, you know EJ would have.
Labels:
Americans Outsourced to Europe,
Rangers,
Run-DMB,
US Men
Stadium P0rn: San Jose Stadium Rendering
It's quaint but that roof makes it cozy. I hope they get this built sooner rather than later because their current digs are Dragon Stadium 2.0.
9.18.2009
Video: Steve Nash Trains With Vancouver Whitecaps...
...and kinda looks like an older Bobby Convey.
Labels:
Basketball,
Canuckistan,
MLS,
Steve Nash,
Vancouver Whitecaps,
Video
9.17.2009
Extra Time: Episode 30 Act 3
ET chimes in the playoff hunt.
Labels:
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
FIFA 10 Demo Drops Today
You may or may not hear from me today; the FIFA 10 demo hits today and I may very well spend every free minute that I am not occupied with Mr. Mom duties giving it a thorough test-drive. So while I may be deep in the gamehole today, be sure to check out my dude Andrew's gaming blog MMOMFG later today for a few of his early impressions.
9.16.2009
Extra Time: Episode 30 Act 2
The race for the Golden Boot is entering the home stretch...
Labels:
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
Video: Juan Pablo Angel on Premier League World
The RBNY great remembers his time at Aston Villa and talks about his future in New York. He also names Thierry Henry first when asked who was the best player he went up against in the EPL; more fuel for the Henry-to-NYC speculation fire.
Thanks to Miguel for the clip.
Labels:
Aston Villa,
Juan Pablo Angel,
Red Bull New York,
Thierry Henry,
Video
9.15.2009
Video: This Is Football
This is a new one on me; I've never seen this show before but it's a good look. This is part one, the other three can be found here.
Labels:
Canuckistan,
Danny Dichio,
Mo Johnston,
Toronto FC,
Video
Video: Heath Pearce Arrives in Dallas
Dear Mr. Pearce,
THIS is the cowboy capital of America and it is not up for debate.
Yours truly,
Texas
P.S. Welcome back.
Video: PressPass's Weekly American's Abroad Thingy
Janusz and some British man discussing the most recent exploits of the U.S. men's national team members and other Americans outsourced to Europe. Janusz mentions twice that he thinks that Deuce puts in his best performances for his club instead of his country. Hunh.
He also mentions Eddie Johnson. Remember him? We all thought he was going to be big, didn't we? Now it's like he's the soccer equivalent of the big local band from college that got signed by a label and although they never blew up, they still haven't broken up so every once in while you talk to some old friend who says, "dude, I saw that Dixie Witch are playing next weekend" and you go "damn, they're still around?!" and you laugh and laugh and laugh and laugh. It's just like that. Exactly like that.
Labels:
Clint Dempsey,
Eddie Johnson is a Grown Ass Man,
ESPN,
Gooch,
Tim Howard,
US Men,
Video
Video: ESPN's Inter v. Barcelona Preview
I'm sure many of you are very excited for this week's CONCACAF Champions League matches. I know that I am particularly geeked about seeing how Columbus fares at Saprissa Stadium and I'm hoping that Houston's trip to Pachuca is as wild as their last. But those games aren't until tomorrow night --although D.C. United does paly tonight-- so what is there to do until then?
A good way to kill some time while you wait for those games it watch the UEFA Champions League matches today and tomorrow. Sure it's not nearly as glamorous and is seriously lacking in North American players but as I understand it many people here do actually enjoy watching this sort of thing. Check out ESPN's preview of what appears to the most entertaining match of the round.
Labels:
Barcelona,
Champions League,
ESPN,
Inter Milan,
Video
9.14.2009
Video: Soccer in the States
Something called World Business --which you could assume is like Forbes for foreigners--does their take on the always popular "Is soccer succeeding in America?"-piece. They never get tired of that one do they?
Labels:
Brand Beckham,
Business,
DC United,
MLS,
Santino Qauranta,
Video
Video: In The Mixed Zone Post-U.S. v. El Salvador
U.S. Soccer is sleeping y'all. They are just dropping U.S. v. El Salvador post-game interviews today...don't they know how timely this this stuff is?
Labels:
Charlie Davies,
Clint Dempsey,
Landon Donovan,
Tim Howard,
US Men,
World Cup 2010
Donovan Ricketts Was Overheard Singing These Lyrics To The Galaxy Backline At About The 82nd Minute on Saturday Night
Darling, just don't put down your guns yet,
if there really was a God here,
he'd have raised a hand by now.
Toronto FC Seeks Domestic Bliss

I'd like to address U.S.-based TOR readers for a moment if I could...everybody else go get a tall, decaf, skinny mocha-chino or something for a minute. Cool? OK.
Now (as I channel my inner Bernie Mac) listen to me America. I'm no financial expert and I don't claim to be. But if our nation's large and small businesses would "buy American, hire American" with the frequency that Mo Johnston is buying Canadian, hiring Canadian we could fix this whole economic freakshow that we are currently sack-deep in by MLS Cup weekend. That's not a recovery plan, that's just good sense.
It may have taken three long seasons of being mired in misery but Toronto FC has finally figured that out and now, for the first time I believe but correct me if I am wrong, has more Canadians than Americans on it's payroll. I can't say if the new, enhanced maple-flavour of TFC is strictly based on player ability or if it's Mo & co.'s land grab to secure as many native players as possible before Vancouver and --quite possibly Montreal's-- arrival into the league. It doesn't matter though; either way, it's just good sense.
Labels:
Canuckistan,
Mo Johnston,
Toronto FC
LA: Let's Get Ready To Rumble


I would like to see Landon and David as a tag team wrestling duo. No masks though, because they are too pretty for that and it would take away from the gate receipts (got to keep the ladies, and AEG --who would be the exclusive promoters for all of their bouts-- happy). They could each have signature moves though; Landon could cross himself before he jumps from the top rope and David could deliver a paralyzing free kick to the groin. As for arch enemies it would have to be Dema Kovalenko and Yura Movsissyan...those two reformed Soviets seem like they could both deliver and take a chair to the face.
...And Playing the Part of "Kurt Loder" is Greg Lalas

An interview that can't happen is Greg Lalas talking with Gavin Rossdale over a scotch about the mixed blessing of having a close relation who is a bit more famous than you. Perhaps at the end of said conversation they would have boded over their shared place in life, become BFF's and agree to start a Slade-influenced metal band called Lesser Icons with Greg on drums, Gavino on guitar/vox and Jamar Beasley on bass.
Like I say, it just can't happen, but what did happen is our Greg chatting with the former Bush frontman/lucky S.O.B. who gets sire children with Gwen Stefani about music, family and his semi-secret semi-pro footballing past. It's a two-parter so don't blow your attention wad to early.
Part one (the opener) is here, part two (the headliner) is here.
Labels:
Greg Lalas,
MLS,
Music,
The English
9.12.2009
Gabriel Ferrari Is My Type of Dude

If you frequent some of the more discerning party photo sites like Hi Fi Cartel, The Midnight Socialite and Last Night's Party you may on occasion see U-20/Foggia/former Metrostars academy product Gabriel Ferrari's mug in there scattered amongst those of the young, sexy and fashionable. I like it. I wish more domestic-based players were a staple on the late-night social scene a la classic Cletus. The photo above was snapped at the Major Lazer gig at S.O.B.'s a little while back; dude has damn good taste in music.
He's also got a damn good chance at making an impact in Seria A. ESPN's Ravi Ubha caught up with the striker-cum-DJ-cum-blogger and talked about his recent run of good form and good fortune (he's not injured or benched for once!). Read it, then make the prerequisite "Cap him now!" comment.
NSR: The Dead Weather "Treat Me Like Your Mother (Live)"
1 White Stripe + 1 Queen of the Stone Age + 1 Raconteur + the sexy one out of The Kills = The Dead Weather.
1 a.m. Rambings Post-The Rapture Show

Here is my awful "posed with someone more well-known, thinner & taller than me" photo with The Rapture's Luke Jenner. I just got home from the semi-comeback gig at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ and I have a few beery things to say about it so please bear with me.
1. You CANNOT deny the power of a good cowbell/saxophone player. On the same stage that Clarence Clemons regularly rocked the same combo of instruments back in the day for The E Street Band, Gabriel Andruzzi held it down.
2. It's nice to see a band that I last saw playing a baseball stadium with Daft Punk go back and keep it kinda punk-rock and man the merch table themselves. At said table I got into a cypher with Vito the drummer about how unnecessary a major label is, New Jersey gentrification and, of course, a little footie. (Go New York, Go New York!)
3. Any concerns about their material not holding up after such a prolonged absence are without merit; as my dude Kevin from Faux Fur and Soccer Shirts said, if you can move a room full of jaded indie fans with material that is 3 years old (which is something like 47 blog years) your sh*t is tight.
4. I now get why people drink Budweiser; it's cheap and you can drink that stuff for days without actually feeling like you actually have been drinking beer for days.
5. If you were curious about what the bass-playing situation would be like in the post-Matty Safer era you will be happy to know that Harris Klahr from Q And Not U is more than competent on bass/keys/background vocals duty. He also looks a lot like Rob Corddry these days.
6. As feared, the post-Matty Safer era set list obviously does not include "Sister Savior".

7. Stopping by the positively rammed Nicole Atkins gig at the Kill Brand store afterward was soooo not a good idea. She was already done, and there were way too many people in a small space. Sometimes you have to know when to call it a night...which is exactly what I am going to do right now.
9.11.2009
Video: Danny Dichio in the Casino Rama Grill Room
What or where is this Casino Rama Grill Room? Is it a gambling establishment? A steakhouse? Whatever it is, good on them for getting interviews with Trader Mo and Dan Dichio this week. Will the circle be completed with a JDG interview next? Who knows but if it is, I'll try to dig it up for you.
Labels:
Canuckistan,
Danny Dichio,
Toronto FC,
Video
Are the Chiva Girls Sexy Boots Worse Than That U2 Song?
White patent leather go-go boots: sexy or sleazy? Discuss.
Labels:
Chivas USA,
Flesh,
New England Revolution,
Video
9.10.2009
FIFA10: A "We Are The World" for Gamers & Footie Freaks
I'm a 33 year-old, meat-eating, whiskey-drinking, video game-playing, soccer-loving, heterosexual, American male. This speaks to me. It also speaks to Wayne Rooney, Ronaldinho, and random foreign children apparently. I love this because it is nice to know that no matter what our differences we can all rally around our common love of talking sh*t to our homeboy on the couch after we just skinned him in the 18 for the game-winner.
Labels:
FIFA10,
Ronaldinho,
Video,
video games,
Wayne Rooney
Extra Time: Episode 29 Act 3
I know I skipped acts 1 & 2 this week, but here's episode 3 for your own, perverse viewing pleasure; better late than never.
Labels:
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
NSR: Passion Pit Live from Juan's Basement
Six months on, I'm still stuck on "The Reeling". PP are really having a moment right now what with being on every late-night chat show available, two upcoming gigs at Central Park with this summer's other "it-band" Phoenix, and the fact that every time I DJ there is a seemingly endless parade of cute young indie chicks asking me to drop "Sleepyhead".
But I never play "Sleepyhead" as I find the shrieking vocals to be the least sexiest sound this side of Lonnie The Voice-Crack Guy from the Galaxy games, you know the one that was in that movie a while back.
So I stick with "The Reeling" and all of it's associated remixes (although I do mess with "Swimming in the Flood from time to time) because to put it in simple terms that any music fan understand, "it's my sh*t". The clip above is from the excellent Juan's Basement on P4K. If you've never been there you should visit.
Video: Lando's Post-TNT Comments
Dude is responsible for more road assists than AAA.
Labels:
Landon Donovan,
US Men,
Video,
World Cup 2010
Video: Bob Bradley's Post TNT Comments
Personally I think the daring of the TNT Federation should be acknowledged for painting the gay rainbow on the locker room wall. You don't see that too much in pro sports; very progressive.
9.09.2009
Video: Mo Don't Know Dichio
Actually he does and talks about the big, bald, baller's Toronto past, present and future in something called the Casino Rama Grill Room. If you can handle a double-scoop of jawing gingers, drink it in Toronto fans...drink it in.
Labels:
Canuckistan,
Mo Johnston,
Toronto FC,
Video
Lando on TNT "Don't Overlook This Team"
Them Yankee boys aren't sleeping on the Soca Warriors and you shouldn't either. We'll find out in a little over an hour's time but I'm not thinking this is going to be as easy of a walk as it was when these two met in Nashvegas a 'lil while back. Buckle up boys and girls, it's carnival time.
Labels:
Clint Dempsey,
Jozy Altidore,
Landon Donovan,
MLS,
US Men,
Video
On The Pitch With Broken Social Scene's Brendan Canning
I had no idea Broken Social Scene headman Brendan Canning was one of us. You learn something everyday. If you aren't versed on one of Canuckistan's finest musical exports, I suggest you get familiar.
USMNT: Powered By Howard

You like that? TOR reader/masochist Aaron Rutsay knocked this out a while back for us and I think it would look great on a t-shirt, car bumper, banner or subway car. Feel free to download a large size of this image and spread the matchday Howard Power as you see fit.
As for our Timmy, he's taking no chances tonight in TNT...which means we have a real chance at TNT.
9.08.2009
This Just In: Dichio Out, De Guzman In

The word out of Canuckistan is that we've seen the back of Danny Dichio to make way for the front on Julian De Guzman. Talk about bittersweet. I bet hearts are breaking from Mississauga to...Mississauga.
Labels:
Canuckistan,
Danny Dichio,
The English,
Toronto FC
Video: Press Pass Previews U.S. vs. TNT
Adrian Healey and former TNT international Shaka Hislop have their doubts about the Yanks recent performance; can you believe the boys have only 1 point on the road in qualifying?
NSR: Muse "Undisclosed Desires"
A few weeks ago we discussed Editors and there newly-acquired penchant for New Order-esque electronic noodling. The jury seemed to be split on whether their new direction is awesome or appalling and I'll expect nothing but the same after you hear Muse's latest which is very reminiscent of Strangelove-era Depeche Mode. Add these two to Kanye's unlikely position as the new Pet Shop Boys and the stage is set for someone to come along and complete the circle by rehashing the dancefloor brutalism of Nitzer Ebb any day now.
Video: Trailer for The Golden Age of Soccer
On Sept. 20th PBS will air a new documentary entitled "The Golden Age of Soccer". I think it's about a bunch of geriatrics who despite their advanced age still get up for the game. And I'm not talking Claudio Saurez old, but "I remember when the balls had laces-old". Soccer Insider mentioned it the other day but I thought I'd share the trailer with you all. Set your DVR's accordingly.
9.07.2009
Video: Jozy & Lando's Post-El Salvador Comments
Pedro Gomez is like a barometer of human size. He looks normal-sized when stood next to Jozy Altidore --who is actually a pretty big dude-- but when placed in a shot with Landon Donovan he looks like a giant, Cuban Jay Leno. Call me simple but I find it fascinating and think that going forward all U.S. soccer players should have their height listed as relative to Pedro Gomez on their official bios.
Labels:
ESPN,
Jozy Altidore,
Landon Donovan,
Video,
World Cup 2010
9.05.2009
9.04.2009
Video: U.S. Open Cup Behind the Scenes
Get an all-access, all-Seattle look at the U.S. Open Cup Final; basically it's your typical, high-quality video offering from SoundersFC.com.
I love how they give team owners Drew Carey and Adrian Hanauer the champagne shower, but why do I doubt that players would ever be comfortable giving Uncle Phil Anschutz the wet dress shirt?
Labels:
DC United,
MLS,
Seattle,
US Open Cup
Steve Ralston Rides The Cranky Donkey...
...which brings to mind a song from my booty-bass youth; if they could have worked 12 Gauge's mid-90's, Florida stripclub classic into this we'd be talking about a Commercial Emmy Award for this one.
Labels:
MLS,
New England Revolution,
Steve Ralston,
Video
Jhon Kennedy Hurtado's Big Lift
Listen to this one closely. Does he call him "HurTARDo"? That's f*ckied up if he does but with him perpetually misspelling his own name as "Jhon" I could see how he would get that idea.*
*I kid. I know that's how his name is supposed to be spelled.
Kei Kamara: Striking Balls and Striking Poses
I think this might be my favorite but that's probably just the inner narcissist in me trying to claw it's way out.I could see CR7 doing this...Lord knows his Paris Hilton boning-ass has had enough practice.
Labels:
Houston Dynamo,
Kei Kamara,
MLS,
Video
Javier Morales' Pinata Celebration
This is the 17" Macbook Pro of over-the-top goal celebrations.
Labels:
Argentines,
Javier Morales,
MLS,
Real Salt Lake,
Video
Geoff Cameron's Goal Celebration Sponsored by Dr. Scholls
We all know you get a yellow card for taking your shirt off but what's the rule on freeing your feet? Is there a precedent? And since there are two shoes do you get two cards? Is this something for foot fetishist-only or is should children be encouraged to do it as well?
Labels:
Geoff Cameron,
Houston Dynamo,
Video
Wilman Conde is The Matador
Would it have been too obvious for the kids to be wearing RBNY kits? Probably. But it's just nice to see a defender get a little shine...those guys never get a commercial.
Labels:
Chicago Fire,
Colombia,
MLS,
Video
Video: Train in the Rain with Chuck D. & Baby Bradley
Oh to be physically fit. I've eaten so much pulled pork this summer that I wouldn't be able to do more than one of this drills before having to sit down. Some sad sh*t y'all. Maybe I should join my wife on her current veganism kick?
Labels:
Charlie Davies,
Michael Bradley,
Nike,
US Men,
Video
9.03.2009
Video: Young Jozy on El Salvador
The Boy King of New York & Jersey™ let's us know what's what ahead of this weekend's qualifier vs. El Salvador.
Labels:
Hull,
Jozy Altidore,
US Men,
World Cup 2010
Sleep With CR7, Get a Permanent Escort From the Paparazzi
Everyone --even Gossip Girl!-- knows that if you bone Cristiano Ronaldo you will be forever stalked like a gazelle on the savannah. She also knows that you may also receive and all expense-paid trip to the free-clinic. But the big questions is what happens if you hook up with Christian Gomez? Can you at least get a three episode arc on The Real World: D.C.? Inquiring minds want to know.
H/T to Sports Crackle Pop.
Labels:
Cristiano Ronaldo,
DC United,
Video
Extra Time: Episode 28 Act 3
Shep, Jason and Greg on American soccer exceptionalism, a subject that is the topic of an exhausting yet insightful book from a few years ago.
Labels:
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
Kevin Alston and Amaechi Igwe To Drop Rap Album
Suggested song titles for the upcoming KA and Mech Boy album, the most hotly-anticipated hip hop record since Bizarre for D12's Hanni Cap Circus. It's not due to drop until 1.31.10 (because the streets can wait for this one) but I thought I'd get an early start in lending my keen music business acumen to the project. So without further adieu...
- Foxborough Funk
- New England's Most Carded
- SUV's (Our Parking Lot's Got 'Em)
- She's Krafty (Beastie Boys remake)
- Revolutionaries f/TT and Bald Head Slim
- Ill-Advised Ragga-Rap Song (f/Kheli "Lucky" Dube and Shalrie Jospeh)
- Red Head Kingpins f/Jeff Larentowicz and Pat Phelan
- One Day (We'll Win the Cup)
- Nicol & Dime You
- Massachusetts: We Go Somewhat Hard and Then We Say "F*ck It, Let's Go Home".
Labels:
Music,
New England Revolution,
Video
Video: Red Patch Boys Sleuthing in Seattle
In which a TFC supporter investigates the mysterious mystery of Quest Field's noisy fans; hoax or hardcore?
Video Killed U.S. Open Cup Star
See, here's the thing with being dirty. If you are going to try to get away with something you shouldn't --armed robbery, sexual congress with Paris Hilton, booting a Colombian in the chest, whatever your nefarious act of choice is-- you have to keep in mind that in the digital age there are cameras everywhere and that someone is going to see you do it.
In this case it's a broadcast camera, but it could just have easily have been a 14-year old girl's custom Hello Kitty iPhone. Point is if you insist on being a thug --to both your teammates and opponents-- you need to realize that you are often going to get caught.
But getting caught kinda puts a downer on the whole thing so you might try using some of that spray that makes things invisible to cameras but from what I gather it only works on license plates. Or even better you might keep it simple and just not behave in a manner that is consistent with being a tool. The choice is yours but it's just something to think about before your next inappropriate act ends up getting duped 1000 times and ended up on cable somewhere*.
*If get this reference you are old.
Labels:
DC United,
Fredy Montero,
Josh Wicks,
Seattle,
US Open Cup,
Video
9.02.2009
Extra Time: Episode 28 Act 2
Shep & co. somehow spend 8+ minutes discussing streaks without mentioning Tiffany May. Shocking. Where is she now anyway?
Labels:
Flesh,
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
50 Cent Does Not Fancy Liverpool's Chances This Season
That's OK though since these days more people like Stevie G than G Unit.
Labels:
Liverpool,
Music,
Soccer as Comedy,
Video
Red Bull Arena Has Better TV's Than I Do (Obviously)
I'm not exactly sure how interested anyone is in this but Panasonic are outfitting Red Bull Arena with all of it's video screens and TV's. That's cool. I like to to watch TV and go to soccer games so why not do both at the same time?
Perhaps Panasonic would like to become The Official Technology Partner of SF's House? While I won't ever have 25,000 people over to watch a game, I can ensure that the maybe 8 people that will come over to watch a game will be top-shelf, highly-influential sonsofbitches (I try to keep the living room kinda exclusive, ya know). Can I get a hookup?
US Open Cup Final: Now They're Bringing The Kids Into It
It's so on; once the children get involved there is no turning back. I hope both Mr. (Seattle) & Mrs. (D.C.) Washington both have damn good lawyers/fowards because this is going to get ugly.
Labels:
Children Are Our Future,
DC United,
Seattle,
US Open Cup,
Video
9.01.2009
Extra Time: Episode 28 Act 1
Can you believe it's time to talk playoffs already? Seems like only yesterday we were talking Superliga, friendlies and other mid-season distractions. Now we're nearing the finish line and it's kinda awesome, kinda weird and kinda sad...sort of like some of those things you see at a Tijuana bachelor party.
Labels:
MLS,
Shep Messing's Mustache,
Video
NSR: Jay Z f/Luke Steele of Empire of the Sun "What We Talkin' Bout"
Everybody thought I was high, tasteless disco-trash last year when I started going on and on about Empire of the Sun. Now Jay-Z is tapping vocalist Luke Steele for the opening track for his new album. It's a strange day when the only person who will listen to me is Jay Z; this is easily my favorite track from him since "Excuse Me".
MLS Final Kick Week 24
Highlights from Week 24 aka The Lowest-Scoring Weekend Since Your Freshman Orientation™. Not a lot of goals but sometimes --if you are New York or LA-- you only need one.
Video: An Ali Gerba Interview
A slow day so here's an interview with TFC's Ali Gerba that I never got around to posting.
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