I watched the MLS All-Star Game, but after the full 90 minutes, I really wish I hadn’t. Early in the first half, our very own bulldozing defender Olave showed what he’s made of by chasing down Wayne Rooney (who, mind, had a head start of 10 to 20 meters) to the touchline before winning a throw-in off the spotty-haired whining striker. But what came soon after, when Olave stretched to win a tackle, creating the most discouraging sight of the night as he held his knee in some noticeable pain. It seems it’s not as bad as it first appeared, but late-night estimates put Jamison out for about 15 days. We’ll see if that’s accurate.
If they are accurate, he’d be out for Columbus, Sporting KC and potentially the New York Red Bulls match. It’s vital now that our back-up central defender, Chris Schuler, step up and make his mark on the side. That will also require extra attention from our fullbacks to keep our very good defensive record intact. It’s not the end of the world by any means, but it presents a spot where remaining wary is absolutely necessary.
Moving on: Kyle Beckerman came on for the second half of the match and was perhaps the only bright spot to emerge for the MLS in that time. He was always in a position where a teammate could play a pass, and he made several positive plays for the others — when players like David Beckham (who, I might add, was asked — asked! — if he wanted to remain on the field for the second half, while others were simply, and properly, substituted) were busy trying to achieve some sort of personal glory.
That’s the problem, I suppose, in an All-Star Game — you don’t usually have stars who can pass efficiently and quietly and keep the side ticking over. Hans Backe tried to play a side with three forwards, but he didn’t give the side any passing options built-in — players like Ned Grabavoy, who aren’t glamorous in their style but who work quietly and efficiently — and, as you saw, there was no chance for there to be any winner aside from Manchester United.
Nelson Gonzalez out for season
Very unfortunate news came out of the RSL camp yesterday: our young Argentine midfielder Nelson Gonzalez suffered a broken foot during a scrimmage on Sunday, and he’s set to have surgery on it today. As expected with a broken foot, he’ll e out for the remainder of our season, and it’s certainly a vastly unfortunate occurrence for the boy. This side can survive without him — he was a capable backup in the thinking of the staff and not more at current — but for the hard-working boy who went through hell to even make it to the United States, (http://www.cityweekly.net/utah/article-14393-immigrant-goal.html) this must be a crushing blow. More on his injury and his status at the club as it becomes available.
Right, so expect a match preview tomorrow as the side gears up to battle Columbus Crew. Training was cancelled today, perhaps in a bid to get the boys zipping about on Saturday. Something’s afoot in the Rio Tinto — the next few days should show clearly what that is.
Up the RSL!
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