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Colorado stormed back from an early own goal to take a 4-1 halftime lead during what turned out to be a nine-goal scoring fest between the Rapids and Montreal Impact Saturday night at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Montreal closed the gap to 4-3 in the second half, but the Rapids stayed on the gas as well, tacking on two more goals to earn a 6-3 win at home and snap a four-game winless streak.  

Here are three takeaways from the match:

Lights. Kamara. Action

With a hat trick Saturday night, Rapids forward Kei Kamara reached double-digit goals on the season, making Colorado the fifth different franchise for which Kamara has accomplished that feat.

It’s an important milestone for any top-level striker in MLS, but Kamara shrugged it off as a base level of performance.

“It’s not too much pressure, but you have to hit double-digit goals,” he told reporters after the game. “You have to have a striker on your team that’s going to hit that every single year.”

For Kamara there may be no pressure, but for Colorado as a franchise it’s been a relatively rare milestone. The last time a Colorado player marked 11 goals was in 2010 when Omar Cummings (11) and Conor Casey (13) both reached that mark.

Casey, now the Rapids interim head coach, had heaps of praise for Kamara following the win.

“He was incredible,” Casey said of Kamara. “Great attitude all week. We wanted to get more service into him, because to be fair, he’s been doing a lot of the dirty work for us and hasn’t been getting a lot of reward. Today he did and he made the best of it.”

Speedy Delivery

Rapids midfielder Jack Price had three assists Saturday to match Kamara’s three goals. At the beginning of the season, questions surrounded Colorado’s set pieces after specialist and designated player Shkëlzen Gashi was released by the team.

But Price has stepped up as the team’s primary set-piece taker and Colorado continues to lead the league in opportunities created from corners and free kicks.

“He was great,” Casey said of Price’s performance. “He’s been out [with injury], so it’s been great to have him back with the team. His delivery off of set pieces and his energy were both great.”

Scoring off of set pieces has been crucial in Casey’s system.

“Obviously, a lot of them came from set pieces,” he said of Colorado’s scoring opportunities. “We were clinical again on set pieces. It’s been a big part of our success this season.”

Did you die, though?

Another crucial point to the Rapids’ success under Conor Casey has been a willingness and need to continue to pressure teams offensively late into matches. This has been a sticking point particularly at home, where Colorado has the marked advantage of altitude.

Even with a 4-1 lead, Colorado continued to attack instead of bunker to try to protect the lead. It resulted in Montreal closing the gap to 4-3, but it also paid off when the Rapids were able to close the game out with the final two goals of the match.

Rapids attacker Diego Rubio explained the mentality behind the strategy best.

“At the start of the season we talked about that. At home we need to press our opponents, because we all know there’s altitude here in Colorado and they’ll probably die,” Rubio said. “We need to score goals to do that, to give us confidence, to give us more energy. So, we scored four goals and in the second half we said ‘We need to keep going.’”

The post Kei Kamara’s rare milestone for Colorado and other takeaways from the Rapids’ 6-3 win over Montreal appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Despite concerns of a plague outbreak surrounding Saturday’s match between the Colorado Rapids and Montreal Impact, the game played on and Colorado won 6-3 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.

“Execution, really,” Rapids coach Conor Casey said of the reason behind the win. “We created a lot of chances. We had good energy starting out. We were unfortunate to have the own goal. We were clinical again on set pieces, and a lot of positives to take away tonight.”

Montreal (10-12-3, 33 points) opened the scoring in the 18th minute when a cross from Saphir Taïder landed on the head of Rapids striker Kei Kamara, who knocked it in for an own goal.

Colorado (5-12-5, 20 points) responded in the 21st minute. A Jack Price cross deflected off Kamara and Rapids defender Lalas Abubakar before making a final bounce off Montreal goalkeeper Evan Bush. The second own goal of the match leveled the score at 1-1.

Colorado nearly took its first lead of the match eight minutes later, but Kellyn Acosta’s shot from the center of the 18-yard box was high and wide of the mark.

In the 35th minute, Rapids forward Diego Rubio drew a foul in the box, prompting a penalty call. Kamara slotted home the shot in the lower right corner to give the Rapids a 2-1 lead.

Kamara extended the lead again in the first minute of first-half stoppage time. An initial shot by Sam Nicholson deflected out to Kamara, who slotted it in the lower right corner to give Colorado a 3-1 lead.

In the third minute of the four-minute stoppage time period, Colorado scored yet again. Price connected with Rubio in the box, who slotted home the header to give the Rapids a 4-1 lead before the halftime whistle.

“Mentality, work-wise and desire, he’s been giving everything to the team lately,” Casey said of Rubio, who has scored five goals in the past seven matches.

After 45 minutes, Colorado had scored four goals off three on-target efforts, while holding just 41 percent possession in the opening stanza.

Tim Howard, who made his first appearance since coming off injured two weeks ago in a 2-1 loss to NYCFC, subbed off at halftime for Clint Irwin. Casey confirmed postgame that the substitution was due to the calf injury that continues to affect Howard. 

Colorado nearly got a fifth goal in the opening minutes of the second half, but the goal was called offside.

Montreal pulled one back in the 55th minute when Maxi Urruti sent a curling shot into the upper 90 to make the score 4-2.

Despite several Rapids counterattacks, the visitors scored the next goal. Substitute Mathieu Choinière drew a foul from Acosta in Colorado’s box. Taïder took the penalty and converted, cutting the lead to 4-3 in the 76th minute.

But Colorado continued on the attack and extended its lead to two goals yet again two minutes later. Andre Shinyashiki added the fifth goal for the Rapids in the 78th minute.

Twelve minutes later, the Rapids found the back of the net again, with Kamara completing his hat trick off a headed effort to put Colorado in front 6-3 just before stoppage time.

“He was incredible,” Casey said of Kamara. “Great attitude all week. He’s been doing a lot of the dirty work for us and hasn’t always got the reward but tonight he did.”

Colorado saw out the match to earn its sixth win of the season, all coming under interim coach Conor Casey.

“It’s a statement, but we have to continue to back it up,” Casey continued. “We know where we’re at in the table so we’ve got to keep working hard.

Still at bottom of the Western Conference, the Rapids will host San Jose next Saturday night.  Montreal returns home to host Cavalry in a Canadian Championship semifinal Wednesday before playing at Chicago next Saturday.

The post Colorado Rapids not plagued by Montreal Impact in 6-3 home win appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

With the flipping of the calendar from July to August comes a larger sense of urgency for the Major League Soccer clubs involved in the playoff hunt.

The only thing we know for certain regarding the 14 playoff positions, seven in each conference, is that Los Angeles FC appears to be first in line to host MLS Cup by winning the Supporters’ Shield. 

Unless Bob Bradley’s team suffers a massive setback over a month-long span, it will be the top seed in the Western Conference, but after that, everything is up for grabs. 

The difference in the Eastern Conference between first-place Philadelphia and New England in seventh is six points, with Toronto sitting in eighth one point back of the red line. 

Eight points separates second-place Seattle from ninth-place Houston in the West, with Sporting Kansas City clinging to life 10th six points out of the final playoff spot. 

There will be an intensified focus to Week 22, and every week of play that follows, and there are some key clashes on Saturday and Sunday that could give us some clarity, while others are East-versus-West matchups that could serve as litmus tests for certain clubs. 

Week 22 Schedule

Saturday, August 3

LA Galaxy at Atlanta United (5 p.m. ET, Fox) 

Toronto FC at New York Red Bulls (6 p.m. ET, TSN4, ESPN+) 

Los Angeles FC at New England Revolution (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

FC Dallas at Orlando City (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Vancouver Whitecaps at FC Cincinnati (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Montreal Impact at Colorado Rapids (9 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Chicago Fire at Houston Dynamo (9 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

New York City FC at Real Salt Lake (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Columbus Crew at San Jose Earthquakes (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Sunday, August 4

Portland Timbers at Minnesota United (4 p.m. ET, ESPN) 

Philadelphia Union at D.C. United (7:30 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Sporting Kansas City at Seattle Sounders (10 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Things to Watch 

How Will Galaxy Deal With Zlatan’s Absence? 

The LA Galaxy head to Mercedes-Benz Stadium without their most recognizable piece. Zlatan Ibrahimović is suspended for the clash with Atlanta United due to yellow-card accumulation. 

The Galaxy have to prove they can put in positive performance without the Swedish forward, who has 13 more goals than his next teammate on the scoring chart. 

Since Ibrahimović made his debut last year, the Galaxy have been outscored 14-9 in regular-season games in which he does not play a single minute. If you take away the 5-0 loss to Seattle from last year, the goal mark is even. 

In fact, the Galaxy are 4-4 in those games, so losing Ibrahimovic does not mean certain defeat for Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s side, but it means its defense and midfield will have to work harder to halt Atlanta United and create chances in the final third. 

Look for Jonathan dos Santos, who played well in the win over LAFC, to be one of the key figures for the Galaxy if they come away from Atlanta with a positive result. 

Can Martínez Keep Scoring? 

Atlanta United forward Josef Martínez has a chance to tie his own record scoring streak in Saturday’s meeting with the Galaxy.

The Venezuelan has scored in eight consecutive league games, and with one tally versus the Galaxy, he will tie the mark he set on August 24, 2018.

Even if he doesn’t score on Saturday, Martínez will be in possession of two of the three longest scoring runs in MLS history. 

The third is held by Diego Valeri, who scored in nine straight matches from July 29 to September 24, 2017.

Will the Revs Make A Statement Against LAFC? 

An argument can be made that Saturday’s clash at Gillette Stadium is the Game of the Week. 

The New England Revolution, who most of us left for dead in May, possess the best form in MLS with an 11-game unbeaten run. 

The toughest task of Bruce Arena’s Revs tenure comes against the best team in the league in the rare clash of former United States men’s national team managers in MLS against Bob Bradley. 

While the forwards on both sides have garnered plenty of attention this season, the key to the game sits in the battle between two of the most underrated players in the league. 

New England’s Carles Gil is the engine that makes the Revs attack tick, while Eduard Atuesta has been a massive force in front of the back four for LAFC.

If Atuesta is able to jam up the channels in midfield where Gil likes to produce, the Black-and-Gold could end the Revs’ run while reasserting their dominance. 

Can the Union Re-Assert Their Spot Atop East? 

Philadelphia has two 4-0 road losses in its past three games serving as the black eye on its credentials to earn the top spot in the Eastern Conference. 

On Sunday, the Union have a golden opportunity to put those results behind them while knocking off a conference rival on a national stage. 

Jim Curtin’s side will have left back Kai Wagner back in the squad, and it appears likely that Jamiro Monteiro will return in some capacity from his ankle injury. 

The Union have had success in league play in Washington, D.C., of late with a road win in each of the past two seasons, and they hold a four-game winning streak in MLS play over Ben Olsen’s side. 

Of course, the Black and Red can turn it on at any moment through Wayne Rooney and Luciano Acosta, and with one win since June 29, they need this game even more than the Union to revive their form. 

A win by the Union would extend their advantage over D.C. to six points and keep their East lead at three points, while a D.C. victory would open the door for Atlanta to take first and throw more chaos into the race for the No. 1 spot. 

Minnesota-Portland, Part 1 of 2

Minnesota United and the Portland Timbers square off for the first of two matches across two competitions in three days on Sunday at Allianz Field.

Before the Western Conference sides battle for a spot in the U.S. Open Cup final, they must contest a crucial game that will affect the playoff picture. 

The Loons are coming off a disappointing home draw against Vancouver in what can only be viewed as a game in which they dropped points. 

The surge everyone expected out of Portland is happening, and it is ready to move further up from seventh with a game in hand on most of its competition. 

After Sunday, the Timbers have 10 straight games at Providence Park in league play, so picking up any extra points would be a plus. 

We all know about the midfield difference-makers in each squad, but the true advantage on Sunday could be found at fullback. Jorge Moreira and Romain Métanire both can impact the game by surging forward on the flanks, and if one of them is a constant force in the final third, their team could come away with three points. 

The post MLS Week 22: Galaxy face Atlanta without Zlatan, Revs-LAFC face off at Gillette appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Saturday night’s game between the Colorado Rapids and Montreal Impact will continue as scheduled, but there will be several changes at the recommendation of the Tri-County Health Department and the City of Commerce City, due to the discovery of plague-infested prairie dog colonies in the areas surrounding Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.

At the recommendation of the health department, parking will be restricted to the surface asphalt lots to minimize risk to patrons, team and staff attending the game.

Additionally, the post-game fireworks display that was scheduled to follow the match has been cancelled, due to the staging area being in the affected zone of the plague contamination. It marks the third time this season in which the club has been forced to cancel or delay fireworks shows due to outside elements. Fireworks shows following the June 28 and July 4 matches due to inclement weather surrounding the stadium.

The prairie dog colonies are currently being sprayed with insecticide to kill the fleas which transmit the disease and signs are posted for people to avoid the affected areas.

“Plague in prairie dog colonies is common in Colorado and can be managed safely with insecticide to kill the fleas that spread the disease,” John M. Douglas, Jr., executive director of Tri-County Health Department told 9NEWS in Denver. “Our partners have voluntarily closed these locations to prevent any humans or pets from wandering into the affected areas.”

According to a fact sheet provided on the Tri County Health Department’s website, plague is a very serious illness which includes symptoms of swollen lymph nodes, fever, chills, headache, and extreme exhaustion. However, if the disease is contracted, it can be treated by antibiotics.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, Prairie Gateway Open Space and unpaved parking areas at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park are closed until further notice, the health department said in a news release.

“Our highest priority is the health and safety of our fans, staff, and local community,” the Rapids said in a team statement.

The post Plague confirmed in areas around Dick’s Sporting Goods Park ahead of Colorado-Montreal match appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

As some of Major League Soccer’s best descend on Orlando for the MLS All-Star Game against Atletico Madrid and the MLS Homegrown Game against Chivas de Guadalajara’s U-20 side, the best teams in MLS are starting to emerge in the Pro Soccer USA Power Rankings.

The league’s balance of power continues to trend western, with four of the top five teams from Week 21 coming from the Western Conference. The Portland Timbers continue to trend upward, advancing three spots after a convincing 4-0 win over the LA Galaxy Saturday night.

The biggest movers, though, are as Northeast as you can get as the New England Revolution blasted eight spots up following a 4-1 win over Orlando City SC, extending the club’s remarkable unbeaten streak to 11 games.

The Major League Soccer Power Rankings are created by averaging the rankings submitted by a committee of Pro Soccer USA’s editors and writers.

Pro Soccer USA writer Dylan Butler contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 21: Rolling New England Revolution surge to No. 6 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The Colorado Rapids lost their second-straight match, this time on the road, falling to the San Jose Earthquakes, 3-1. The Quakes took a 2-0 lead into halftime on an own goal by Lalas Abubakar (2’) and another from Vako (34’). Shea Salinas added a third goal for the hosts in the 83rd minute, but Diego Rubio scored for Colorado five minutes later to avoid the shutout.  

Here are three takeaways from Colorado’s 3-1 loss to San Jose:

Coffee Talk

Saturday’s match was arguably one of the worst outings for Rapids defender Keegan Rosenberry while wearing Burgundy. Rosenberry was caught narrow on the Quake’s second goal, unable to deal with an Allen Iverson-type crossover by Vako and was simply outpaced and out-dribbled by Shea Salinas on San Jose’s third goal.

To his credit, Rosenberry raised his hand and took his fair share of responsibility postgame.

“Credit to them, they were good individual efforts,” Rosenberry said of the goals by Vako and Salinas. “I certainly held my hand up on both, I think I can do better just staying on my feet and not overcommitting on shot fakes and what not. I think that any of us would say that before we give credit to an attack like that. I felt like we limited them to only a certain number of good chances and they took them on the day.”

Conor Casey has never been one to throw players under the bus in his public comments, but was unhappy with the Rapids’ defensive performance.

“Well we gave up three goals, so not good,” said Casey. “Plain and simple. Can’t get scored on away 2-0 and expect to still be able to get something out against a team like this.”

Ill-fated Irwin

It’s been hard times for the former Rapids No. 1 choice goalkeeper as Clint Irwin’s last win as a starting goalkeeper came back in March of 2018, a 3-1 win over RSL as a member of TFC.

Saturday marked Irwin’s second start since his return to Colorado this season, his first coming in a 1-1 draw with the Philadelphia Union. With Tim Howard out with a strained right calf, Irwin earned another shot at the starting job in Colorado, if only briefly.

On Saturday against San Jose, Irwin faced 17 shots (4 on target), making two saves. He arguably did more work in just a half of play last week against NYCFC, making five saves against six on-target efforts. But Irwin was largely in no man’s land against a constant barrage of San Jose counterattacks.

“He was good,” Casey said of Irwin’s performance. “I thought he was solid. Made some saves for us. He was good in distribution. You get scored on three goals, obviously you’re not going to be pleased, but I thought it was good.”

The loss doesn’t fall on Irwin, who was scored with an own goal, and two possible goal of the week candidates, but instead, continued bad luck for the 30-year-old.

Has momentum run out?

As the Rapids earned their first win under interim head coach Conor Casey and continued to rack up points, it looked as though the team might have miraculously pulled itself from the doldrums and gained a fighting chance at one of the final playoff spots in the Western Conference.

But momentum has slowed once again with Colorado having earned just two points during a current four-game winless streak. The two-goal deficit (nearly three, if not for Rubio’s late goal) marked the worst loss so far of the Casey era.

With a solid body of work to now go off of, it now begs the question as to whether or not the Rapids have finally been figured out league-wide. San Jose head coach Matias Almeyda seemed to have good insight and a plan going into this match.

“We knew were facing a difficult opponent,” said Almeyda. “We found out that the match could be played how it was. By fortune and a great game, we were able to take the advantage through combinations and control. From there, the match became different. By controlling the match, being alert on counter attacks, they [Colorado Rapids] can do damage in their aerial play, but we had that under control.”

Once again firmly at the bottom of the West, it will take another strong, if not unprecedented, run of form to rekindle even a sniff of the postseason for Colorado.

The post Rosenberry’s wakeup call and other takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 3-1 loss to San Jose appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes weren’t as prolific with their shooting as in past games, but that didn’t matter much in a comprehensive 3-1 win over the visiting Colorado Rapids.

The Avaya Stadium announced crowd of 17,762 were treated to an entertaining performance by the Quakes. An own goal by the Rapids less than two minutes into the game and a miraculous effort from Valeri “Vako” Qazaishvili gave the Quakes a two-goal halftime lead that was never in danger. Shea Salinas, a second half substitute, capped off the scoring with an individual play to ice the game late before Diego Rubio pulled one back for Colorado.

“As a collective group, we are feeling confident,” Salinas said. “I think it’s a testament to how hard guys are working. It’s impressive.”

After trailing in their previous two games, it was important for the Earthquakes to enjoy an early lead, especially against a team like the Rapids that they were expected to beat.

“We talked about that before the game,” midfielder Tommy Thompson said. “We had to be awake from the first minute, and that translated to on the field. Guys were pushing the envelope, and it was great to see.”

On the other bench, the view was more of frustration, as Colorado slumped to its fourth straight game without a win. On the night, the hosts out shot the visitors 17-11, and in possession the Quakes dominated 66.3% to 33.7%.

“It came down to individual battles,” Rapids coach Conor Casey said. “They won their individual battles tonight, and we did not.”

Last year, it was the Earthquakes that often fell short on the stats sheet and ultimately the scoreboard, so the transformation on display during their recent run of success has been a revelation to those outside San Jose, but not to the guys who call Avaya Stadium home. 

“In the past, if someone lost the ball, guys were throwing their arms in the air,” Salinas said. “Now, there’s none of that. When one guy loses the ball, the other ten bust their butts to get back for him. It’s a collective team spirit that we have to make each other better, and that shows in our play. We’re fighting for each other, and it’s making a big difference.”

The only real disappointment of the night came when Colorado scored late to deny San Jose the shutout. It was definitely not the way the Earthquakes and head coach Matias Almeyda wanted to see the game end, but it also will provide the team motivation moving forward.

“No, no, when you are scored on it’s because your opponent had a virtue, and I respect an opponent’s virtues,” Almeyda said. “If I analyze the game well, there are times I liked and times I didn’t. This just lets me know we have to keep on improving.”

Playing the guys that have brought the team to this point, Almeyda sent out the same starting XI that dominated the Vancouver Whitecaps last weekend, and it paid dividends right from the opening whistle.

A turnover by the Rapids in the first minute was quickly turned into a counterattack by the Quakes, and they were off to the races. Florian Jungwirth got things started with a long diagonal pass right to the feet of Tommy Thompson on the right sideline. The homegrown midfielder turned and drove toward goal, dishing the ball off to Cristian Espinoza making an overlapping run. Espinoza, tops in assists for San Jose, sent a low cross through the box intended for Chris Wondolowski, but defender Lalas Abubakar turned the ball into his own net to put the Earthquakes up 1-0 just 74 seconds into the game.

Wondolowski, who was denied an easy tap-in by the own-goal, had his first attempt at reaching goal No. 10 of the season when he collected a pass at the top of the area in the 14th minute. The Quakes captain touched the ball to his left and rifled a shot that missed the target and caused a bit of a stir as it crashed into the stadium’s outdoor bar. A similar attempt from Magnus Eriksson in the 19th minute also sailed over the crossbar, but no beverages were endangered.

And then it was Vako’s turn, and the Quakes most effective player of the last month made his effort count. After collecting a pass from Nick Lima 25 yards from goal, the Georgian attacker did what he does best: throw defenders off balance. He cut to his left, then to his right, both times shaking off defenders before curling a perfect shot to the far post. Goalkeeper Clint Irwin could do nothing, and the ball settled into the back of the net to give San Jose a 2-0 lead.

Vako was definitely feeling it, and in the Earthquakes’ next possession into the attacking third, he again showed off his dribbling brilliance. This time, the midfielder settled for a longer shot and his effort glided just over the target.

The half ended with the Quakes up 2-0 and looking like the better team on both sides of the ball. The early mistake to give up the own goal seemed to take any wind the Rapids had in their sails, and perhaps they were lucky not to be down even more.

“It broke down in individual defending and energy,” Casey said. “The first half was not good enough, and when you make mistakes, you’re going to get punished, and we did.”

The second half started slowly for both teams. The Quakes settled into a comfortable routine and the Rapids kept their focus on defending deep. Colorado’s Andre Shinyashiki entered the game as a substitute for veteran forward Kei Kamara, but the MLS Rookie of the Year hopeful was limited in his effect.

Vako danced into the area in the 58th minute before settling the ball onto his stronger right foot. The midfielder crushed a shot from a short distance that flew right at Irwin, who made the stop.

It was the end of the evening for Wondolowski in the 60th minute, and the Earthquakes lone representative on the MLS All-Star team subbed out for Danny Hoesen. Wondolowski will join the rest of the league’s best in Orlando for Wednesday night’s showcase against La Liga giant Atletico Madrid.

Vako exited the game to his own standing ovation in the 79th minute, when Almeyda brought in an extra defender with Marcos Lopez securing the left side of the formation. Vako finished the night with a goal in his third consecutive game and six goals in his last seven games.

Espinoza had a good try at making it three goals for San Jose. He rocketed a ball from 25 yards out that rattled the post in the 82nd minute. Salinas didn’t miss his opportunity, putting on a Vako-esque display dribbling in from the left and carrying the ball through the Colorado defense before wrong-footing Irwin with a shot to the back post. It was the sixth goal of the season for Salinas, extending his personal best record.

“Yeah, I don’t really know what the difference is this year,” Salinas said. “A lot of it is how we play. My starting points are higher up the field, which makes a difference. Vako’s scoring a ton of goals, and I’m pushing to compete with him and keep pushing him forward.”

The Rapids did strike late to ruin goalkeeper Daniel Vega’s quest for a clean sheet. Rubio found the back of the net on a deflected shot that the Quakes ‘keeper desperately tried to save, but the ball lobbed over his head and outstretched gloves.

The result extended the Quakes winning streak to four games, which they last accomplished in August 2015. San Jose returns to action next Saturday at Avaya Stadium when they host the Columbus Crew.

The post San Jose Earthquakes extend winning streak with comfortable 3-1 win over Colorado Rapids appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

SAN JOSE, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes are the talk of MLS, having put their early season struggle behind them and cemented their name in the Western Conference playoffs conversation.

The Quakes are 5-1-0 in their last six matches, and at Avaya Stadium, where they host the Colorado Rapids Saturday night (kickoff at 7:00 p.m.), they’ve gone unbeaten in eight straight games (7-0-1).

The Rapids, meanwhile, are winless in three games this month, and are languishing alongside the Vancouver Whitecaps at the bottom of the table. Colorado has fared better, however, away from their Rocky Mountain home of late, sporting a four-game unbeaten streak on the road (1-0-3) since the start of May.

The Earthquakes are taking nothing for granted this weekend, knowing that the Rapids, like themselves, are playing with a renewed confidence that wasn’t apparent at the beginning of the season. Matias Almeyda and his coaching staff have urged their players throughout the week to be ready for a resolute opponent in Colorado.

“We’ve discussed the match and that the team we’re facing is similar to ours,” Almeyda said. “They are a team that started the season poorly but have improved, very similar to our situation. We need to have the same respect for every opponent. Just as I treat every person the same, every opponent, for me, is an equal.”

The Quakes’ three game winning streak includes two straight wins on the road, the first time the team has accomplished that since August 2015, that featured a combined 64 shots taken — an MLS record for consecutive games. The intensity of the team’s approach to games, which entails harassing opponents on the ball with man-making defending and quickly transitioning into attack when they win back possession, has afforded the offense numerous scoring opportunities.

“We had like 90 shots in the last three games, so why stop that,” defender Florian Jungwirth said this week, though he was slightly off with his numbers.

During the Earthquakes recent six game run, they’ve taken 20 or more shots in five of them: the lone sub-20 shot game was three weeks ago at Avaya Stadium against Real Salt Lake. A somewhat sluggish Quakes side managed only 12 shots that night, finally getting a goal from Danny Hoesen deep in stoppage time to eke out a 1-0 victory. Everyone with San Jose is hoping for a much more complete performance against the Rapids.

“We expect they will sit back a bit, so we need to have a lot of patience,” Jungwirth added. “I think it’s tough to compare both games, especially in the RSL game we were really tired because it was our fourth game in ten days. If RSL was our first game in that 10 day stretch I think it would have been a different one.”

The Earthquakes’ schedule has lightened up a bit in recent weeks, and the extra time between games has been beneficial. This week in particular, not having to travel and getting to practice on their own training field every day, has been an advantage, and the players know the added time in familiar environs will pay dividends against the Rapids.

“We have not had a long week in a while,” defender Harold Cummings said. “It gives us time to prepare for a match. The coach is making the modifications that need to be made for this match.”

Cummings missed over a month of the season while on international duty with Panama in the Concacaf Gold Cup, but he looked like he hadn’t missed a beat when he partnered with Jungwirth in the center of defense in last week’s impressive 3-1 win at Vancouver. Cummings replaced Guram Kashia in the lineup against the Whitecaps because the Georgian centerback was back in his home country working to secure his U.S. Green Card, which would open up an international roster slot. That process is still ongoing — Kashia has not yet rejoined the team — so Cummings is expected to start again against Colorado.

Almeyda will still have the rest of the squad to choose from in setting his starting eleven on Saturday, with defender Marcos Lopez back from suspension and added to the mix. The four-man attacking corps of Valeri “Vako” Qazaishvili, Chris Wondolowski, Magnus Eriksson, and Cristian Espinoza — all who either scored or delivered an assist in the Whitecaps win — will again lead the attack, and the Quakes game plan will emphasize their ability to break down the Rapids, even if the visitors show up in a defensive shell at Avaya Stadium.

“Of course, when a team tries to play, tries to open up a bit, it’s benefiting us more because we can use our speed and our dribbling on top,” Jungwirth said, “but I’m convinced that we will find the pockets in between, get Vako and Cristian outside against the one-on-one they need.”

The Quakes may not take another 32 shots on Saturday, as they did against the LA Galaxy and Vancouver the past two weekends, but they will get their chances. And if they can find their finishing touch too, then there’s no reason to believe they won’t walk away with all three points on the night.

Match Information:

When: July 27, 7:00 p.m. Pacific Time
Where: Avaya Stadium, San Jose
Broadcast: Telemundo 48, KNBR 1050
Live Stream: ESPN+
Earthquakes injury/suspended report: Out: Anibal Godoy (abdomen surgery)

The post Red hot San Jose Earthquakes look to roll Colorado Rapids appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Another week in the books with more spicy rivalry matches. A week after the Hudson River Derby was decided, El Trafico took center stage, which was followed by a Cascadia Cup showdown two days later.

How do these matches affect the Pro Soccer USA Power Rankings in Week 20? Despite the home defeat, LAFC remain atop the rankings, while the LA Galaxy climbed three spots into the top 10.

The Portland Timbers knocked off the Seattle Sounders at CenturyLink Field and moved up two rungs to No. 7. We also have a new basement dweller with the Chicago Fire earning that dubious honor after Columbus Crew SC snapped a 10-match winless streak with a 2-1 win over the Montreal Impact.

The Major League Soccer Power Rankings are created by averaging the rankings submitted by a committee of Pro Soccer USA’s editors and writers.

Pro Soccer USA writer Dylan Butler contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 20: LA Galaxy climb 3 spots after El Trafico win appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The New England Revolution’s unbeaten streak has been on our radar for a few weeks. 

The praise has trickled in for Bruce Arena’s team, and it broke out in a major way in Week 20, when they downed Vancouver and FC Cincinnati by multiple goals. 

New England’s impressive attacking performance led us to add two of its players to the top 10 of the Pro Soccer USA MLS Player Rankings, and two more in the bottom half. 

The presence of four Revs in the Week 20 edition of the Player Rankings match totals only achieved by Los Angeles FC’s talented contingent.

Speaking of LAFC, it still has three players in the top 20, with one attempting to gain his top spot back.

The MLS Player Rankings take into account a player’s form over the last four games, with the most recent showing holding a bit more weight.

20. Kacper Przybylko, F, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 6

Jul 20, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Union forward Kacper Przybylko (23) controls the ball against Chicago Fire defender Jorge Luis Corrales (25) during the first half at Talen Energy Stadium. (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)

After scoring on five occasions in a four-game stretch out of the Concacaf Gold Cup break, Kacper Przybylko failed to score in each of his last two contests. 

Although Philadelphia defeated Chicago Saturday, the 26-year-old striker was unable to attempt a shot for the second straight game. 

In Week 21, Przybylko and the Union will go for the season double over the Montreal Impact. 

19. Brian White, F, New York Red Bulls

Previous Ranking: 20 

Brian White continued to take advantage of his opportunity in the New York Red Bulls lineup with a goal Sunday against Orlando City.

What a goal!

Brian White provided the Red Bulls a 1-0 lead at halftime after this beautifully weighted ball from Kaku. #ORLvRBNY pic.twitter.com/6onEX6RWUH

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 22, 2019

The 23-year-old Duke product is up to seven tallies in his second MLS season, and has provided Chris Armas with a viable backup option to Bradley Wright-Phillips when the star striker is ready to start a consistent run of games. 

White has been incredibly efficient with the chances he gets with his seven goals coming on nine shots on target.

18. Ike Opara, D, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: 7

Jul 20, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake midfielder Sebastian Saucedo (23) and Minnesota United defender Ike Opara (3) battle for the ball in the second half at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

Ike Opara and the Minnesota United defense held Real Salt Lake to three shots on goal in their 1-1 draw at Rio Tinto Stadium.

However, the Loons could not pick up three points in a game in which they led for 13 minutes, and the equalizer came from an unusual source in Marcelo Silva. 

The Loons have a chance to earn their second shutout in three games at home in Week 21 against a struggling Vancouver side. 

17. Adama Diomande, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 10

Jul 19, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Adama Diomande (99) moves the ball while LA Galaxy defender Daniel Steres (5) defends during the first half at Dignity Health Sports Park. (Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports)

Adama Diomande took a backseat to the superstars in the scoring column during El Trafico Friday night. 

The 29-year-old forward handed out four key passes in the 3-2 loss, but he saw his two-game scoring streak come to an end without a shot on goal. 

Diomande and the Los Angeles FC strike force face another difficult task in Week 21, with Atlanta United coming to Banc of California Stadium Friday night.

16. Antonio Delamea, D, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

There was a stretch at the start of the season in which we didn’t think any defensive-minded player from New England would qualify for this list. 

Antonio Delamea with a header from Carles Gil to put the #NERevs up 2-0#CINvNE pic.twitter.com/nlstYP0g75

— New England Revolution (@NERevolution) July 21, 2019

But after two clean sheets and a goal in Week 20, Antonio Delamea is one of four Revs on this list, and one of two debutantes. 

Delamea was a part of a defensive unit that held the Whitecaps without a shot on goal Wednesday and shut out FC Cincinnati on the road Sunday,  despite giving up seven attempts on target. 

15. Jonathan Lewis, M, Colorado Rapids

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

May 29, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Colorado Rapids forward Jonathan Lewis (11) runs the ball past Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner (27) during the second half at Talen Energy Stadium. (Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)

Since he was traded from New York City FC to Colorado, Jonathan Lewis has made an impact in many ways for the Rapids. 

In the two games since he returned from the Gold Cup, Lewis has a goal and an assist, including the handout he produced on the lone goal scored by Conor Casey’s side in the 2-1 loss to his former club Saturday at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.

In 400 minutes for the Rapids, Lewis has three goals and an assist. 

14. Gustavo Bou, F, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Gustavo Bou announced his presence in MLS with a screaming shot into the back of the net Wednesday in New England’s blowout win over Vancouver. 

Gustavo Bou scores a stunner on his MLS debut! #NEvVAN pic.twitter.com/BuXFsBAgW8

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 18, 2019

After scoring his first MLS goal, Bou dished out his first assist in the league Sunday at Nippert Stadium.

With Bou and an in-form Teal Bunbury up top and Carles Gil playing at an All-Star level behind them, the Revs could make their spot above the red line a permanent one.

13. Heber, F, New York City FC

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Heber scored in back-to-back league games for NYCFC for the second time this season in Weeks 19 and 20.

The Brazilian forward notched his first tally in the Hudson River Derby a week ago and extended that scoring run into Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Colorado. 

Off the chest! Héber ties the game up, 1-1, just before the half. #NYCFConYES pic.twitter.com/TxYnlJOFYt

— YES Network (@YESNetwork) July 21, 2019

In his last four games, which were separated by a three-match injury layoff, Heber has five goals and an assist. 

12. Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, D, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jul 17, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United defender Leandro Gonzalez Pirez (5) dribbles the ball against the Houston Dynamo in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

The Atlanta United defense took advantage of home cooking in Week 20 by producing a pair of shutouts against Houston and D.C. United. 

In the midweek 5-0 thumping of the 10-man Dynamo, Leandro Gonzalez Pirez won six aerials and completed 91 percent of his 111 passes. 

That form continued Sunday, when the 27-year-old made four tackles and two interceptions while holding Ben Olsen’s team to three shots on target.

11. Jozy Altidore, F, Toronto FC

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jozy Altidore is another of the U.S. Men’s National Team players who has come back to MLS from international duty and shined. 

I mean, c’mon now. That’s just silly @JozyAltidore | #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/LWfgGE7qgZ

— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) July 18, 2019

With a goal in each of Toronto FC’s matches in Week 20, Altidore eclipsed his goal total from an injury-ravished 2018 season. 

When he has been on the field, Altidore has been a difference-maker for the Reds, with eight goals in 12 games. 

10. Diego Rossi, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 3

Jun 28, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Diego Rossi (9) controls the ball against Colorado Rapids defender Sam Vines (13) in the first half at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports)

Just like Diomande, Diego Rossi was unable to provide an impact in attack as part of LAFC’s three-pronged forward lineup in El Trafico.

The 21-year-old attempted three shots, but all of them went off target in his club’s third league defeat of the season.

Friday also marked the end of Rossi’s three-game scoring run in which two of the goals came in road games.

9. Maxi Moralez, M, New York City FC

Previous Ranking: 5

Jul 14, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York City FC midfielder Maximiliano Moralez (10) dribbles the ball against the New York Red Bulls during the second half at Red Bull Arena. (Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports)

Maxi Moralez handed out his 13th assist of the campaign on Heber’s equalizing goal at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. 

The Argentinian playmaker also dished out seven key passes in NYCFC’s fourth road victory of 2019.

If NYCFC wants to climb up the Eastern Conference table with its games in hand, Moralez needs to continue packing a punch in and around the penalty area. 

8. Mason Toye, F, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: 4

May 29, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United defender Miles Robinson (12) blocks a shot attempt by Minnesota United forward Mason Toye (23) in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports)

Mason Toye was unable to find the back of the net Saturday, but he did chip in an assist on Minnesota United’s lone goal at Rio Tinto Stadium.

The 20-year-old New Jersey native, who has scored on each of his four shots on goal, has provided a goal or an assist in five straight league matches. 

7. Brian Fernandez, F, Portland Timbers

Previous Ranking: 18

Brian Fernandez made an instant mark on the Cascadia Cup by depositing a pair of goals into the back of the net in Portland’s 2-1 win over Seattle. 

The 24-year-old Argentinian opened the scoring and then answered Seattle’s lone tally almost immediately to put the Timbers back in the lead for good.

It had to be him.

7th goal in MLS, first goal in #SEAvPOR. Brian Fernandez gives @TimbersFC the lead! pic.twitter.com/wRIkBXyyCq

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 22, 2019

The scorer of eight goals should make his way up the Golden Boot chart with Portland settling into a long stretch of home contests at Providence Park.

6. Teal Bunbury, F, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: 8

Bunbury has been one of the most consistent forwards in MLS over the last month with four goals in his last five games. 

FOUR?! #NEvVAN pic.twitter.com/1zBpxJJpod

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 18, 2019

The 29-year-old extended his scoring streak to four games with a strike in the Revs’ win over Vancouver Wednesday. 

Bunbury’s form will help the Revs moving forward, but it will also be interesting to see how he fits around Bou, who is expected to receive the most opportunities of the striker corps in New England.

5. Carles Gil, M, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: 15

An argument can be made that Gil is the most underrated player in MLS this season. 

The 26-year-old moved his 2019 totals up to seven goals and eight assists with a goal and an assist in each of the Revs’ matches in Week 20.

Carles Gil puts it away! #NEvVAN pic.twitter.com/k1GQrjchgZ

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 18, 2019

Gil should be in the running for Player of the Month in July with three goals and three assists over four games for the surging Revs. 

4. Vako, F, San Jose Earthquakes

Previous Ranking: 11

Vako has produced one of the most active two-game stretches of any player in MLS over the last two weeks.

In games against the LA Galaxy and Vancouver, Vako totaled nine shots on goal off 22 total shots, two goals and an assist.

Someone should probably mark this guy…

VAKO ON A HOT STREAK! #VamosSJ | #VANvSJ pic.twitter.com/b835sJZ3mM

— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) July 21, 2019

The Republic of Georgia international is currently on pace to break his MLS highs in goals, assists and shots on goal. 

3. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, F, LA Galaxy

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Entering El Trafico, Zlatan Ibrahimovic hadn’t scored in three of his last four games. 

He broke out of that slump in a major way by netting the second hat-trick of his MLS career. The other came against Orlando City SC in July, 2018.

Best #LAGalaxy goal of the season?

— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) July 22, 2019

The three-goal performance marked the 10th time Ibrahimovic scored multiple goals in a game for the LA Galaxy.

2. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 2 

Carlos Vela may have lost the individual battle to Ibrahimovic Friday night, but he still walked away with two goals. 

#CaptainVela STRIKES FIRST

20 goals in 20 games for @11carlosV!#GALvLAFC pic.twitter.com/knGsoXVzFM

— LAFC (@LAFC) July 20, 2019

The brace was a consolation from a night in which Bob Bradley’s team was outplayed in most facets of the match at Dignity Health Sports Park. 

In the process of scoring twice in El Trafico, Vela became the fastest player to score 20 goals in MLS history.

1. Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 1 

Jul 21, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) celebrates after a goal against D.C. United in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

Josef Martinez’s Week 20 highlight reel was dominated by his ugly penalty miss in which he exaggerated his typical pause in his run up to taking a penalty.

Martinez still scored three goals against Houston and D.C. to move within five goals of Vela in the Golden Boot race. 

If he continues to score at this clip, the Venezuelan forward could challenge Vela for the honor of MLS’ top scorer. 

The post MLS Week 20 Player Rankings: New England Revolution dominate list with four players appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – As the sun beats down on the training field at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, Sam Vines needs to take a breather before speaking with the media.

It’s a visible sign of how hard the 20-year-old defender has been working this season.

“We had a hard session today,” Vines told Pro Soccer USA following a recent session. “We’re here to compete, we’re here to win. We want to win the game.”

Vines has not just broken into a regular starting role with the first team, but solidified a left back position with which the Colorado Rapids have experimented to find an answer for all season. Vines has featured in all five of Colorado’s wins thus far, starting in four.

All of those wins have come under interim head coach Conor Casey, who’s witnessed Vines’ professional development first hand.

“He’s taken the position and he’s run with it,” Casey said of Vines’ performances at left back. “He’s getting even better experience now being able to start week in and week out and be able to get into the rhythm of being a professional and competing against guys like Carlos Vela.”

Ironically, the door to the position opened up to the young homegrown because of an injury to teammate Deklan Wynne, a favorite under former head coach Anthony Hudson. Vines himself was held out earlier this year due to a quad injury he has sustained in preseason.

Now healthy, getting a regular run of games is what Vines cites as the defining factor behind his improvement.

“Playing a lot more games has boosted my confidence a lot,” Vines explained. “I’ve been fortunate to play enough games this season to feel confident and like a part of the squad.”

Aside from the misfortune of injury, this past offseason had been the most productive of his young career. Vines put on muscle as part of a weight-training regimen, and both he and Rapids teammate Cole Bassett trained with recently promoted German Bundesliga club SC Freiburg last November.

“It was a good experience going overseas,” Vines said. “They have a lot of weight training and sometimes train twice a day, especially in the preseason. The language was a bit of a barrier, but it was good because Cole and I were together the whole time and stayed in the same hotel room.”

Fittingly, the duo will be roommates yet again when they head to Orlando to participate in the sixth edition of the MLS Homegrown Game next Tuesday.

It will mark the second time in which a pair of Rapids homegrowns have featured in the same Homegrown Game. Dillon Serna and Shane O’Neill represented Colorado in 2015.

It’s a sign of the growth and strength of not just the Rapids Development Academy, but of soccer in the U.S. as a whole. Casey, a Colorado native who played five seasons for the Rapids, remembers a time when infrastructure and resources weren’t readily available for developing players like they currently are for today’s homegrowns.

“When I was a kid, it was: You’d have to know somebody that knew somebody to be able to get into even possibly train with the team,” Casey said. “The fact that kids like Sam, like Cole Bassett, Seb [Anderson] can come in and they can train every day here, we have that connection with their coaches where we can track them, keep an eye on them and then bring them pretty seamlessly into the first team. I mean, it’s totally different the way that football’s evolved in America with the academies.”

As a Coloradan who battled his way through the professional ranks before eventually playing for his hometown team, Casey is an original homegrown of sorts. But so is Monument, Colo., native and former Rapids defender Bobby Burling, who also has taken time to mentor Vines.

“Bobby and all the other guys I was training with since I was 14 years old have given me advice and wanted me to do well,” Vines said. “He tells me to keep my head down and keep working hard. Especially when you’re an academy guy, you’ve got to work twice as hard.”

The relationship between Burling and Vines started as a bit of ribbing over a longstanding local high school rivalry between Burling’s alma mater, Lewis-Palmer, and Vines’ Pine Creek.

“I always told him I never lost to Pine Creek,” Burling jokes. “But Sam was always a good kid and I always thought he had potential. At ages 15 and 16, I was playing more basketball than soccer. I think getting the shot to prove yourself as a professional at that age now is mind blowing to myself. I think if [MLS] can become a development league, we’ll be looked at differently.”

Arguably the toughest challenge Vines has faced this season was marking MLS Golden Boot frontrunner Carlos Vela. It was a test he passed with flying colors, as the Rapids shutdown Vela and a potent Los Angeles FC attack in a 1-0 win.

Next week, the MLS homegrowns are set to face another formidable task in the Chivas Guadalajara under-20s. It’s another opportunity Vines is looking forward to.

“It’s obviously exciting, especially with all the homegrowns from around the league and to be able to go down there with Cole,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity to go down there, get some minutes, have fun and maybe catch a glimpse of the All-Star Game.”

Vines’ coach will be one of the many tuning in.

“I’ll be watching it, for sure,” Casey said. “I mean, they’ve, they’ve earned it. So, it’s really cool. It’s good for them, it’ll be a good experience. And you know, they’re young pros, and they’re showing well, so it’s bright future for them.”

The post How Sam Vines has grown into a crucial piece of the Colorado Rapids’ future appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The Major League Soccer weekend was highlighted by a pair of Western Conference rivalries, one that quickly moved itself up the derby power rankings and another that has been around for decades and has captured our hearts in MLS over the past 10 years. 

El Trafico and the Cascadia Cup may have different qualities, but at the core, they have the same values. Both rivalries feature two teams that don’t like each other, and it’s clear all four teams involved are not afraid to get into it with each other on the field. 

Friday’s meeting between the LA Galaxy and Los Angeles FC was only the fourth clash between the two sides, but it had the feel of a game that’s existed for much longer.

Zlatan Ibrahimović stoked the fire in the buildup by pronouncing his abilities being better than golden boot leader and MVP favorite Carlos Vela. 

Ibrahimović then went out on the field and backed up his talk with a hat trick in a 3-2 Galaxy win, in which his team simply outplayed the best team in the league for long stretches. 

Zlatan Ibrahimović on LAFC’s Carlos Vela: “You did one mistake, you compare him to me. That was your biggest mistake.” #LAGalaxy #LAvLAFC pic.twitter.com/Rr3ILeBmvw

— Adam Serrano (@AdamSerrano) July 20, 2019

The Swedish superstar received the spotlight for mostly good reasons, but an ugly elbow on Mohamed El-Munir could add another layer to the rivalry. 

New York Red Bulls defender Amro Tarek revealed on social media Sunday night that El-Munir is going to have facial surgery because of the injury suffered from the elbow.

This is just unbelievable!!! ElMounir is going to have a surgery tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/XQnT8xEC5K

— Amro Tarek (@AmroAbdelAziz) July 22, 2019

The play was far from the only ugly challenge made by players on both sides, but it will be the one that receives the most attention because of who was involved. 

Even before the severity of El-Munir’s injury was revealed, Carlos Vela added fuel to the rematch that can’t come soon enough on August 25 by hitting back at Ibrahimović’s claims of being the best player in MLS.

Vela addresses the Zlatan comparisons.

“Look, to compare me to Zlatan overall is an insult to him. But right now, in terms of stats and regardless of age. I’m better than Zlatan.” #LAvLAFC #MLS #ElTrafico pic.twitter.com/fyc9aisKNP

— Fut Mex Nation (@FutMexNation) July 20, 2019

The win moved the Galaxy within nine points of LAFC for the top spot in the Western Conference, and more importantly, it was their second win compared to LAFC’s zero in El Tráfico. The other two meetings were draws. 

The Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers displayed the same fire at CenturyLink Field Sunday night, and the 2-1 Timbers victory ended with a confrontation between Román Torres — possibly No. 1 in the “players you don’t want to get in a fight with” rankings — and Steve Clark. 

The postgame scenes after the Timbers win in Seattle. pic.twitter.com/kyynDhclnU

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 22, 2019

The emotion poured over after the Sounders failed to rescue a point at home following a pair of tallies from Brian Fernández, who answered Seattle’s lone goal within two minutes for the game-winner in the 51st minute. 

Fernández’s ability in front of the goal adds an extra element to a rivalry that has long been known as one of the best in MLS. 

Portland’s club-record signing has been on fire since coming to MLS from Liga MX side Necaxa, and he could be the difference-maker that continues to help the Timbers pull away in big games, like Sunday. 

The next chapter of the storied series comes August 23 at the start of rivalry week, which is the league’s weekend-long showcase of the best grudge matches it has to offer. 

There will be plenty of other rivalry games scattered throughout the schedule in the next month, but after Week 20, we’ve started the countdown clock to August 21, when rivalry week begins with two of the oldest showdowns in the league, the Atlantic Cup and Cali Clasico.

Goals of the week 

Jozy Altidore, Toronto FC 

I mean, c’mon now. That’s just silly @JozyAltidore | #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/LWfgGE7qgZ

— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) July 18, 2019

Gustavo Bou, New England Revolution

Gustavo Bou scores a stunner on his MLS debut! #NEvVAN pic.twitter.com/BuXFsBAgW8

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 18, 2019

Marco Fabián, Philadelphia Union

Oh okay, we see you @MarcoFabian_10! pic.twitter.com/E1kGDc7mFf

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 20, 2019

Zlatan Ibrahimović, LA Galaxy

FERRARI.

@Ibra_official with a BANGER! #LAvLAFC pic.twitter.com/v6NWYeytLR

— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) July 20, 2019

Penalty miss of the season

Josef Martínez, Atlanta United

Martinez exaggerated his typical penalty run-up and paid the price for it with a miss in a crucial Eastern Conference clash with D.C. United. The Five Stripes pulled a victory out of in the dying minutes.

Unorthodox way to take a penalty pic.twitter.com/5EMoib7YAp

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 22, 2019

Road warriors

Every single week, managers across MLS make it known how difficult it is to win on the road due to the travel conditions and other factors. 

In Week 20, the Houston Dynamo, FC Dallas, New York City FC, San Jose Earthquakes, New York Red Bulls, New England Revolution, Portland Timbers and D.C. United took three points from their travels. 

D.C.’s victory was the only one that occurred in midweek, knocking off FC Cincinnati on Thursday. The expansion side also fell at Nippert Stadium to the Revs on Sunday. 

The midweek effect

The road results correlate a bit to the possible fatigue some teams were dealing with over the weekend. 

Of the 12 sides that played on Wednesday or Thursday, Atlanta United and New England were the only ones to take six points from Week 20.

The Five Stripes played both of their games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, while the Revs won at home and then defeated FC Cincinnati on the road. 

The Vancouver Whitecaps, who had to do the most travel in Week 20 from New England on Wednesday to back home on Saturday, were one of two teams to not pick up any points from two games. FC Cincinnati was the other. 

In total, four franchises earned results from two games, with Portland and the Columbus Crew each picking up a win and a draw. The Timbers drew at home with Orlando City on Thursday before beating Seattle, while the Crew eked out a draw with the Chicago Fire before taking down the Montreal Impact at home. 

Playoff Race Stock Up, Stock Down

With the playoff races in each conference taking over more of the spotlight each week, we’re going to dedicate Stock Up, Stock Down to the competition for the top seven spots in the East and West.

Stock up: New England Revolution

The addition of Bou was yet another boost to the streaking-hot Revs, who did what they were supposed to do in Week 20 and beat two of the worst teams in MLS. 

Bruce Arena’s team extended its unbeaten run to 10 games, and it moved into seventh place in the East over Toronto with Sunday’s win over FC Cincinnati.

Teal Bunbury has been on fire in front of goal, Carles Gil is playing near a best-XI level and Bou brings another dimension to the attack, but it is the defense that has turned in the biggest reversal of form.

April 24 – May 8: 4 games, 18 goals against (4.50 GAA)

May 11 – Present: 10 games, 8 goals against (O.80 GAA)

This team continues to improve and continues to address areas of weakness, but holy hell is that some sort of turnaround defensively. #NERevs

— Jeff Lemieux (@jeff_lemieux) July 22, 2019

Stock down: Montreal and Toronto 

The two teams New England is in direct competition with for the No. 6 and No. 7 seeds in the East fell flat on Saturday to open the door for the Revs. Orlando City, another playoff rival, could not take advantage, dropping three points at home on Sunday. 

Toronto FC’s home defeat to Houston was the most stunning result of the weekend because of how poor the Reds defense looked, especially on the third goal scored by Mauro Manotas. 

Go on then

Striker takes on 4 defenders for the cool finish. pic.twitter.com/W259RbvNxZ

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 21, 2019

Greg Vanney’s team has two clean sheets since May 15, one of which was against Montreal in Week 19, but there is some good news in terms of schedule relief. 

Toronto has FC Cincinnati coming to town in Week 21, which should allow it to rebound before a massive meeting with the New York Red Bulls on Aug. 3. 

The Impact suffered their fourth straight loss on Saturday on the road in Columbus, and in the process dropped down to sixth place. 

Remí Garde’s side plays three of its next five games on the road, which makes Saturday’s clash with Philadelphia a must-win to generate momentum in the fight for the final playoff places. 

Stock up: FC Dallas

Jul 20, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; FC Dallas forward Dominique Badji (14) celebrates with FC Dallas midfielder Michael Barrios (21) after scoring a goal during the first half against Sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park. (Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports)

FC Dallas picked up its third road win of the season in a crucial spot against a surging Sporting Kansas City side at Children’s Mercy Park.

By holding onto its spot in the standings, Luchi Gonzalez’s team fended off one of the potential contenders for the final few spots in the West. 

There are seven points between FC Dallas in sixth and Sporting KC in 10th. Now the focus for the Texan team turns to a clash with seventh-place Real Salt Lake on Saturday. 

If FC Dallas can come out on top of that game, it will create some much-needed breathing room with the Timbers poised to make a move into the top seven. 

Stock down: Sporting Kansas City

Jul 20, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; Sporting Kansas City forward Gerso Fernandes (12) takes the ball away from FC Dallas forward Dominique Badji (14) during the first half at Children’s Mercy Park. (Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports)

Saturday was the perfect time for Sporting KC to prove it was for real in the playoff race after victories over Chicago and Vancouver.

Instead of earning its third straight win, Peter Vermes’ side fell Children’s Mercy Park for the fourth time this season, sending its home record to 4-4-3. 

That number simply isn’t good enough with the Timbers about to play an extended run of games at Providence Park, Houston boasting a 7-1-3 mark at BBVA Compass Stadium and RSL sitting at 7-2-1 at Rio Tinto Stadium.

The post MLS Week 20 Rewind: Rivalries take center stage in LA, Cascadia appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

On another weather delayed night at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, New York City FC traveled to the play the Colorado Rapids.

Colorado took an early lead in the match on a 6th-minute goal from homegrown Sebastian Anderson, but the 16-year-old was sent off on a straight red card in the 33rd minute for a challenge on Ronald Matarrita. It only took seven minutes for NYCFC to equalize with Herber’s goal. NYCFC eventually took home all three points with an 83rd-minute strike from Alexandru Mitrita.

Here are three takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 2-1 loss to NYCFC:

Seb Anderson’s Day Out

The inclusion of the 16-year-old homegrown in the Rapids starting XI as a right winger was a headscratcher for fans, but it’s a position where Anderson has played and excelled at in the development academy and while training with the first team.

It was also a strong showing of faith from Rapids’ interim head coach Conor Casey, who by all accounts has expressed not just faith in the team’s homegrowns but a desire to give those players valuable minutes.

Anderson rewarded the decision early with his goal, becoming the youngest Rapids player to ever score in MLS. But his red card, however controversial it may have been in the eyes of some, hindered the team the rest of the way.

“He was unlucky on the red card,” Casey said. “It was a rash, quick call on a 16-year-old that nicked a player. Obviously the goal, is great for him.”

Referee Roulette

Head referee Chris Penso defended his call in an answer to the pool reporter, saying, “Anderson committed a tackle that endangered the safety of his opponent, using a straight leg and coming over the top of the ball, with his studs making contact above the opponent’s ankle.”

But the red card wasn’t the only call Casey disagreed with.

“Their second goal, offsides on the play, which it was,” Casey said. “That’s also not called. Given the fact of the enormous discrepancies in calls, the fact that we continued to battle away, I’m extremely proud of the players.”

Later in the match, Rapids winger Sam Nicholson took what appeared to be heavy contact from NYCFC’s Sebastien Ibeagha at the edge of the box, but no foul was called.

“The amount of contact was not deemed to be a foul consistent with other decisions throughout the match,” Penso said of the decision.

Responded Casey, “I’m speechless. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Clutch Clint

One big positive Rapids fans can take away from this match was the overall performance of Clint Irwin. The onetime Rapids No. 1 goalkeeper looked the part in relief of Tim Howard, who had subbed off injured in first half extra time on what the club announced as a strained right calf.

Irwin kept the 10-man Rapids in the game for a good portion of the match, making five saves in the second half while facing 17 shots.

“That first 10 minutes felt like 35,” Irwin told reporters postmatch. “It was easy to get into the game.”

Casey wouldn’t provide details when asked about Howard’s injury after the match, but even the lowest grade calf strains can take a minimum of a week’s recovery time, so it can be reasonable to expect Irwin to start when the team travels to San Jose next weekend.

The post Seb Anderson’s Day Out: Three Takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 2-1 loss to NYCFC appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – For the third-straight week, weather delays adversely affected a Colorado Rapids home game. When it rained, it poured for the Rapids, as an early sending off of homegrown Sebastian Anderson hamstrung Colorado in an eventual 2-1 loss to New York City FC.

“I thought it was a brave and great performance from our team,” said Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey. “We came in with a great mentality, we were missing some guys today: Kei [Kamara], Kellyn [Acosta], Tim [Howard] went down with an injury. We had a red card early and obviously the game changes. We battled through adversity on the night.”

Colorado struck early with midfielder Jonathan Lewis making a line breaking run down the left side of the NYCFC defense, crossing to a sliding Anderson to give the Rapids a 1-0 lead in the 6th minute. It marked the first professional goal for the rookie, who at 16 years old became the youngest Colorado Rapids player to score in league play.

“It was very important to get three points, but we can’t play in that way,” said NYCFC head Dome Torrent. “We have to be clinical in the 18-yard box because we had a lot of opportunities.”

By the end of the match, NYCFC (8-3-8, 32 points) dominated with 29 shots compared to eight for Colorado.

NYCFC’s best chance of the first half came in the 27th minute, as Valentin Castellanos put a low shot towards the bottom corner of Colorado’s net, but Howard came up big to parry the effort away.

It wouldn’t all be celebration for Anderson, who would be sent off later in the first half for studs-up tackle on Ronald Matarrita.

“He’s unlucky on the red card, it was a rash call,” Casey said. “A 16-year old scoring the opening goal minutes into the game is pretty impressive.”

The sending off revitalized the NYCFC attack and the visitors equalized on a goal in the 40th minute by Héber. The Brazilian collected a lofted ball from Maxi Moralez to score the easy goal and level the match at 1-1 against the 10-man Rapids.

Shortly after, Colorado’s problems continued as Howard left the match with a strained right calf, replaced by Clint Irwin in first-half stoppage time.

“We’ll have to monitor him for the next couple of days and see where he’s at,” Casey said of the injury.

In the opening stanza, NYCFC dominated with nearly 77 percent of the possession while outshooting Colorado (5-11-5, 20 points), 12-1.

New York City continued to pepper Colorado’s net with shots into the second half as Irwin made five second half saves.

It appeared the Rapids would catch a break in the 78th minute as Sam Nicholson broke away for what appeared to be the go-ahead goal, but it was called offside.

Instead, NYCFC broke the stalemate, taking a 2-1 lead on Alexandru Mitrita’s strike in the 83rd minute.

For Colorado, controversy continued into the dying minutes of the game as Nicholson appeared to continue to take continuous contact from New York City defenders.

“Given the enormous discrepancies in calls, the fact that we were able to battle away until the end is what makes me extremely proud of the players,” said Casey. “I’m speechless. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

The Rapids didn’t get any help from referee Christopher Penso, failing to find an equalizer of their own as New York City snapped a two-game losing streak.

“I’m happy,” said Torrent. “I’m happy to win the game and that’s what we did tonight.”

New York City will return to Yankee Stadium Friday to host Sporting Kansas City, while Colorado heads to Avaya Stadium to face the surging San Jose Earthquakes.

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The most anticipated match of the Major League Soccer season takes place Friday night at Dignity Health Sports Park. 

Supporters’ Shield leader Los Angeles FC takes on the LA Galaxy, the third-place side in the Western Conference, in what was billed last season as “El Tráfico”. 

Golden Boot leader Carlos Vela of LAFC and the Galaxy’s Zlatan Ibrahimović will be the two stars under the brightest spotlight, especially considering the comments made by the towering Swede in the buildup to the contest. 

"[Carlos Vela] is playing in MLS and he's in his prime. When I was 29 where was I?"

Ahead of El Tráfico, Zlatan says he's the best player in MLS "by far" (via @ahoraonuncaespn) pic.twitter.com/nAqYrM47sB

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 18, 2019

A year ago, Ibrahimović announced his presence in MLS and in the rivalry by scoring a pair of goals in his Galaxy debut in the first installment of the derby. 

The other two matchups in 2018 ended in draws, leaving LAFC in search of its first win over the crosstown rival that is one of the cornerstone franchises of MLS. 

Overall, LAFC has the better team with one of the best midfield units in the league, headlined by Mark-Anthony Kaye and Eduard Atuesta. 

While the focus will rightfully be on Vela and Ibrahimović, the game itself could be won in the middle of the park by Kaye, Atuesta and Latif Blessing, who have been relentless in that section of the pitch all season. 

LAFC is the true definition of a team, with Adama Diomande and Diego Rossi joining Vela in prime scoring form up top, the midfield controlling games and the defense giving up 17 goals over 20 regular-season contests. 

Even though they will be playing at home, the Galaxy have to be seen as the underdog Friday night because of their up-and-down form. They have alternated wins and losses since the start of June. 

Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s side boasts its own variety of star power with young phenom Efraín Álvarez looking to make his mark on the rivalry, and Gold Cup champions Jonathan dos Santos and Uriel Antuna expected to make some type of impact. 

Goalkeeper David Bingham should be in for another test after making 14 saves in the Cali Clasico against the San Jose Earthquakes in Week 19.

Some of the unsung heroes mentioned above could have their say in the final result as perfect complementary parts to the attacking stars. 

El Tráfico is not the only rivalry match taking place in Week 20, with the Cascadia Cup matchup between the Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers concluding the weekend slate. 

In between the two heated contests are plenty of mouthwatering games that could shake up the standings in each conference. 

Week 20 weekend schedule

Friday, July 19

Los Angeles FC at LA Galaxy (10 p.m. ET, ESPN) 

Saturday, July 20

Montreal Impact at Columbus Crew (7:30 p.m. ET, TVA Sport, ESPN+) 

Chicago Fire at Philadelphia Union (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Houston Dynamo at Toronto FC (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

FC Dallas at Sporting Kansas City (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

New York City FC at Colorado Rapids (9 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Minnesota United at Real Salt Lake (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

San Jose Earthquakes at Vancouver Whitecaps (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Sunday, July 21

D.C. United at Atlanta United (4 p.m. ET, ESPN) 

New England Revolution at FC Cincinnati (6 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

New York Red Bulls at Orlando City (7:30 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Portland Timbers at Seattle Sounders (9:30 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Things to watch

The Eastern Conference playoff race

Jul 17, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United defender Julian Gressel (24) celebrates after a goal with midfielder Eric Remedi (11) against the Houston Dynamo in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

This is the most important weekend in the Eastern Conference playoff race to date. 

The top seven teams are separated by seven points, and Orlando and New England are lurking right beneath the red line 

The congestion was made possible by the midweek victories from Atlanta United, DC United, Toronto FC and New England. 

Wednesday’s results were a welcome sight to the playoff contenders, who have all experienced their share of struggles in the past month, which has led to Philadelphia remaining on top despite earning one victory in its past five contests. 

The Union have an opportunity to get back on track and re-assert themselves on top of the East with a home victory over a struggling Chicago side that is going through yet another disappointing season under manager Veljko Paunović. 

By the time 9:30 p.m. rolls around Saturday night, the complexion of the East could change with Montreal visiting Columbus and Toronto playing host to Houston. 

Wins by the Impact and the Reds would keep them in fifth and sixth at worst, and the results would put extra pressure on Atlanta and DC going into their head-to-head showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Sunday afternoon.

New York City FC has been the one team everyone in the East has kept an eye on because of its games in hand, but Domenec Torrent’s side is trending in the wrong direction ahead of a tricky road trip to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park to play the resurgent Colorado Rapids. 

If NYCFC drops points in Colorado on Saturday night, it would be out of the top seven if the Revs defeat FC Cincinnati and Orlando City drops the New York Red Bulls on Sunday. 

Of course, a few unexpected results could alter the shape of the playoff race further, but this is the first weekend where one can legitimately say it’s crunch time in the East, and it’s only going to get tougher from this point on. 

Can red-hot Minnesota end Real Salt Lake’s home run?

Jul 13, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Mason Toye (23) celebrates with defender Lawrence Olum (right) after the game against FC Dallas at Allianz Field. (Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports)

Saturday’s matchup between Real Salt Lake and Minnesota United at Rio Tinto Stadium features a pair of teams looking to prove their spots in the top seven of the Western Conference aren’t flukes. 

Even though the Loons have played some of the best soccer in the league over the past month, it is still understandable to be a little skeptical of the team based off their struggles in previous seasons, and at the start of this season. 

Something has clearly clicked within the Minnesota squad, and it has been able to get the best out of some of its younger players, including Mason Toye and Hassani Dotson. 

The Loons will put their four-game winning streak on the line against a RSL side that is 7-0-2 in its home building.

Mike Petke’s team has pulled off victories over Atlanta United, Toronto FC and Philadelphia on home soil, and in addition to RSL’s run of form, Rio Tinto Stadium is one of the toughest places to play in the league because of the altitude. 

Keep an eye on how the Minnesota defense handles the movement of Jefferson Savarino and Albert Rusnák in and around the box. 

In the win over the Union last weekend, Savarino killed the Philadelphia defense with his movement on the ball and ability to fire from outside the box. 

If Ike Opara and co. can limit the production of the Venezuelan, it could make life tough on a side missing leading scorer Sam Johnson. 

Is Sporting Kansas City back for real? 

Jul 13, 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Sporting Kansas City forward Daniel Salloi (20) battles for the ball against Vancouver Whitecaps defender Jake Nerwinski (28) during the second half at BC Place. (Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports)

Sporting Kansas City has experienced a recent uptick in form with victories over Chicago and Vancouver. 

While they were impressive from the standpoint that Sporting KC showed the ability to bounce back from a rough patch of results, the Fire and Whitecaps are still two of the worst teams in MLS. 

Saturday presents Peter Vermes’ team with a chance to extend its winning streak against a playoff contender in FC Dallas. 

Luchi Gonzalez’s side has to start playing with a small sense of desperation as well since it is down to seventh place in the Western Conference, with Sporting KC, Houston and Portland nipping at its heels. 

Gerso Fernandes has been the catalyst of Sporting KC’s recent attacking success, and he will once again have to be at his best to put the young FC Dallas midfield under duress. 

On the other end of the field, Ilie Sanchez will be tasked with silencing the production of Paxton Pomykal, who has been one of the young breakout stars of the season. 

If Ilie is able to lock down the area in front of the box by limiting Pomykal’s time on the ball, FC Dallas’ attack could be stuck in neutral. 

Can Portland rebound in Cascadia Cup? 

Jul 18, 2019; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Diego Valeri (8) controls a pass against Orlando City SC midfielder Sacha Kljestan (16) during the second half at Providence Park. The game ended in a 1-1 tie. (Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports)

The Portland Timbers have been viewed as one of the most dangerous teams in the second half of the campaign because of their plethora of home games at Providence Park and the games in hand they hold on the rest of the Western Conference contenders. 

But the Timbers have hit a road block in the last two matches, with Colorado and Orlando both coming into Oregon and earning draws. 

Giovanni Savarese’s team can’t afford to drop too many results because it is still on the outside looking in at the playoff places with games in hand drying up. 

Sunday’s trip north to CenturyLink field to take on the Seattle Sounders will be a good test to see if the Timbers can rebound from a pair of disappointing results. 

Seattle has improved of late, and it passed a big test in Week 18 against Atlanta United, but now it has to contain a versatile attack for the second week in a row. 

How Brian Fernández, Diego Valeri and the rest of the attack respond to adversity up top could be a sign of things to come for Portland. 

If the Timbers fall flat on Sunday, it could begin to warrant some concern about a downswing with tough games against the Galaxy and Minnesota in the coming weeks. 

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ORANGEBURG, N.Y. — There will be a familiar face for Anton Tinnerholm to deal with Saturday night at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park when New York City FC squares off the Colorado Rapids.

Facing his former club for the first time will be Jonathan Lewis, who was traded to the Rapids May 7 for $650,000 in Targeted Allocation Money an a 2020 international roster slot.

The 22-year-old has been a regular starter for the Rapids on the left wing and it’s likely Tinnerholm will see plenty of the speedy USMNT player.

“I faced him a lot of times in training sessions, of course,” Tinnerholm said after training Wednesday. “He’s a good player and it feels like he’s been a little more confident and played a lot more games there. I’m surprised he scored that many goals because here he couldn’t score.”

Lewis was limited to just six appearances in his third season with NYCFC, starting a pair of games. Since the move to Colorado, Lewis has started four of the five games he’s appeared in and scored in three consecutive games, including an equalizer in a 2-2 draw with the Portland Timbers Saturday after returning from the Concacaf Gold Cup.

NYCFC coach Dome Torrent said the trade was a win-win for both Lewis and NYCFC.

“I’m happy for him because he has more opportunities to play in Colorado, it’s good news for him,” Torrent said. “Here when you have six or seven good players, its not easy to play.”

Torrent said it was just a numbers game for Lewis, who had six goals and three assists in 31 appearances sine NYCFC selected him third overall in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft.

He said its a situation that happens around the world, at big clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid.

“If you want to play with Real Madrid you have to be ready sometimes to start on the bench or not all the time in the XI. That happened with Jona, he’s a good, good player, he’s a young player and I’m happy for him because he’s a good guy,” Torrent said. “I think it’s better for both teams, for Colorado because they sign a good player and even for New York City because it’s not easy to convince Jona sometimes I want to play with [Alexandru Mitrita], with [Ismael Tajouri-Shradi], with Heber, with Maxi Moralez, with Taty [Castellanos].”

The post NYCFC looking forward to Jonathan Lewis reunion Saturday in Colorado appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The reigning Major League Soccer Golden Boot winner and Most Valuable Player is locked in a contentious battle with the favorite for both of those honors in 2019 for the top spot in the Pro Soccer USA MLS Player Rankings. 

Although Carlos Vela has been in form all season, Josef Martinez is the hotter of the two strikers after Week 19. 

The Atlanta United scoring ace is one of many in-form scorers who have surged up the list in recent weeks to mount a challenge to Vela, who has held the top spot for the majority of the campaign.

Joining Vela and Martinez in the top five this week is Mason Toye, who has put together a remarkable run in front of net for a surging Minnesota United side. 

Our player rankings take into account the form of players over the last four games, with the most recent performance carrying a bit more weight. The list is based off MLS regular-season performances only. 

20. Brian White, F, New York Red Bulls

Previous Ranking: 17 

Jul 14, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls forward Brian White (42) and New York City FC defender Maxime Chanot (4) battle for the ball during the second half at Red Bull Arena. (Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports)

After scoring three goals in four games, Brian White was unable to find the back of the net, although he drew a penalty kick for the New York Red Bulls in the Hudson River Derby.

White only fired one shot on goal in the 2-1 victory over New York City FC, but that is not an unusual number for a player with six goals on eight shots on target. 

With Bradley Wright-Phillips returning to full fitness, it will be interesting to see how Chris Armas utilizes White, who is more than deserving of meaningful minutes. 

19. Ethan Finlay, M, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: 11 

Jul 6, 2019; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Impact midfielder Samuel Piette (6) falls in front of Minnesota United midfielder Ethan Finlay (13) after battling for the ball during the second half at Stade Saputo. (Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports)

Ethan Finlay’s point streak came to an end in Minnesota United’s 1-0 win over FC Dallas on Saturday. 

The former Columbus winger entered Week 19 with two goals and two assists in his last three contests. 

The 28-year-old could face difficulty getting back on the scoresheet in Week 20 with a tough road trip to Real Salt Lake on the docket. 

18. Brian Fernandez, F, Portland Timbers

Previous Ranking: 7

Jul 13, 2019; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Timbers forward Brian Fernandez (7) kicks the ball on goal during the second half against the Colorado Rapids at Providence Park. (Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports)

After lighting MLS nets on fire in his first five league games, Brian Fernandez has not scored in his last two appearances. 

On Saturday, Fernandez made a 30-minute cameo off the bench for the Portland Timbers and fired two shots on target. 

Fernandez has two chances to get back to his scoring ways in Week 20, with a home match against Orlando City Thursday and a Cascadia Cup clash with the Seattle Sounders Sunday. 

17. Justin Meram, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 6

Jul 7, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; New York Red Bulls defender Sean Nealis (15) and Atlanta United forward Justin Meram (14) battle for a ball in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports)

Justin Meram could not replicate his blazing-hot form from his last two starts Sunday at CenturyLink Field. 

The midfielder failed to fire a single shot off in Atlanta United’s defeat at the hands of the Seattle Sounders. 

Just like some of the other players who experienced drops this week, Meram has two chances to get back into the top 10 in Week 20, with the Five Stripes facing Houston and D.C. at home. 

16. Jefferson Savarino, M, Real Salt Lake

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jul 13, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake forward Jefferson Savarino (7) battles against Philadelphia Union midfielder Brenden Aaronson (22) in the first half at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

Jefferson Savarino scored his first two goals for Real Salt Lake since returning from the Copa America Saturday. 

The 22-year-old Venezuelan capitalized on a pair of Philadelphia Union defensive lapses to deposit his fourth and fifth tallies of the season.

The MLS Player of the Week also picked up an assist in the 4-0 victory over the first-place team in the Eastern Conference. 

15. Carles Gil, M, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: 18 

Jul 4, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; New England Revolution forward Carles Gil (22) passes a free kick in the second half against the Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Russell Lansford-USA TODAY Sports)

Carles Gil continued his consistent season in the final third for New England with a goal in Friday’s 2-2 draw with D.C. United. 

The Spanish midfield maestro scored his fifth goal of the season to help Bruce Arena’s side move into the top seven in the Eastern Conference.

Gil’s production should rise once new signing Gustavo Bou adds more quality to New England’s forward corps. 

14. Nicolas Gaitan, M, Chicago Fire

Previous Ranking: 15 

Jul 13, 2019; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Fire midfielder Nicolas Gaitan (20) before the game against FC Cincinnati at SeatGeek Stadium. (Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports)

Nicolas Gaitan continues to be one of the few bright spots for the Chicago Fire. 

The 31-year-old Argentinian scored his fourth goal in a Chicago shirt in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to FC Cincinnati at SeatGeek Stadium. 

In 14 games, Gaitan has four goals and eight assists, but unfortunately for Fire fans, the rest of his teammates have not been able to rise to that high level of production. 

13. Mark-Anthony Kaye, M, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: 10 

Jul 12, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles FC midfielder Mark-Anthony Kaye (14) controls the ball as Houston Dynamo midfielder Tomas Martinez (10) defends during the first half at BBVA Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

Mark-Anthony Kaye’s small slide has more to do with players surging into the rankings than his individual play.

In fact, Kaye had one of the more impressive weeks in terms of individual feats since he played in both the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal Wednesday and regular-season game on Friday for Los Angeles FC. 

Kaye and the LAFC midfield unit helped quite Houston’s attack in the 3-1 win at BBVA Stadium.

12. Gerso Fernandes, M, Sporting Kansas City 

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jun 12, 2019; St. Paul, MN, USA; Sporting KC forward Gerso Fernandes (12) celebrates his goal with midfielder Jimmy Medranda (94) in the first half against Minnesota United at Allianz Field. (Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports)

Over the last two games, Gerso Fernandes has been the driving force of the Sporting Kansas City attack. 

The 28-year-old picked up a goal and an assist in Sporting KC’s 3-0 win over Vancouver on Saturday, and the first tally was an own goal caused by a shot from Gerso. 

The performance came one week after Gerso dominated the final third and did everything but score in the Week 18 victory over Chicago that got Peter Vermes’ side back on track. 

11. Vako, M, San Jose Earthquakes

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jul 12, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Vako Kazaishvili (11) moves the ball against the LA Galaxy in the first half at Dignity Health Sports Park. The Earthquakes defeated the Galaxy 3-1. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)

Maybe we were a bit too harsh taking Vako off the list last week since he has been a consistent performer over the last few weeks for the San Jose Earthquakes. 

The Republic of Georgia international produced a goal and an assist for the second time in four games, both of which have come against the LA Galaxy. 

Vako put four of his 10 shots on target Friday night in a 3-1 win in which the San Jose attackers thoroughly dominated.

10. Adama Diomande, F, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked 

Jul 12, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Adama Diomande (99) controls the ball during the first half against the Houston Dynamo at BBVA Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

With Carlos Vela sitting out Friday night, Adama Diomande thrived in front of net for the league’s best team. 

The 29-year-old scored on two occasions and assisted on a third goal to help LAFC continue to control the Western Conference. 

In his last two starts, Diomande has produced three goals for a LAFC side that seems to have everything going for it in league play. 

9. Daniel Royer, M, New York Red Bulls

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked 

Jul 14, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls midfielder Daniel Royer (77) reacts after scoring a goal against the New York City FC during the first half at Red Bull Arena. (Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports)

Daniel Royer was slowly climbing up the MLS scoring chart without much fanfare before Sunday. 

The Austrian then put his scoring surge on display for everyone to see by picking up a brace in the Hudson River Derby. 

Since the end of the Concacaf Gold Cup break, Royer has four goals and two assists over a four-game span. 

8. Teal Bunbury, F, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked 

Jun 29, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution forward Teal Bunbury (10) reacts after his goal during the second half against the Houston Dynamo at Gillette Stadium. (Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports)

When you talk about the hottest scorers in MLS, Teal Bunbury certainly isn’t the first name to come to mind with so many high-profile players across the league. 

But since the return of league play, the 29-year-old has been one of the top in-form forwards in the league with goals in three straight games for the Revs. 

The uptick in production comes at a perfect time for Bunbury since the Revs just spent a ton of money on a big-name signing up top.

7. Ike Opara, D, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: 8 

Jun 8, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Colorado Rapids forward Kei Kamara (23) Minnesota United defender Ike Opara (3) battle in the first half at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports)

Ike Opara is the top defender on this week’s list for good reasons.

With Opara in the back, Minnesota United have conceded two goals in 270 minutes since the resumption of league play. 

In the one game Opara did not start July 6, the Loons gave up a pair of strikes to the Montreal Impact. 

6. Kacper Przybylko, F, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 4

Jul 13, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Philadelphia Union forward Kacper Przybylko (23) and Real Salt Lake midfielder Everton Luiz (25) battle in the second half at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

Kacper Przybylko and the entire Philadelphia Union squad had an off night at Rio Tinto Stadium Saturday. 

For the first time in six games, Przybylko failed to put a single shot on target for the top side in the East. 

Keeping Przybylko near the top of the list are the four goals he has scored in the last four contests. 

5. Maxi Moralez, M, New York City FC 

Previous Ranking: 2 

Jul 14, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York City FC midfielder Maximiliano Moralez (10) dribbles the ball against the New York Red Bulls during the second half at Red Bull Arena. (Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports)

Although NYCFC failed to earn a result in the Hudson River Derby, Maxi Moralez was able to produce his 12th assist of the campaign.

The reigning MLS Player of the Month has recorded at least one assist in six of his last nine league games. 

After a long spell of games in the New York area, Moralez and NYCFC take their talents to the road in Week 20 to face Colorado. 

4. Mason Toye, F, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: 9

Jul 13, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Mason Toye (23) and goalie Vito Mannone (1) after the game against FC Dallas at Allianz Field. (Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports)

Mason Toye’s form in front of goal for Minnesota United is one of the best stories of the middle of the season. 

The No. 7 pick in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft racked up his fourth goal of 2019 in dramatic fashion in stoppage time against FC Dallas Saturday. 

In four appearances since June 29, Toye has four goals and two assists after struggling to find his way on to the field at the start of year. 

3. Diego Rossi, F, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: 5

Jul 12, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Diego Rossi (9) celebrates after scoring a goal during the second half against the Houston Dynamo at BBVA Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

Diego Rossi scored his 11th goal of 2019 in a substitute appearance in LAFC’s impressive victory over Houston. 

Friday’s strike extended Rossi’s scoring streak to three games and put him one tally away from matching his 12-goal total from 2018. 

Rossi has a good chance to tie, or even break, that mark this Friday night in El Trafico against a shaky LA Galaxy defense. 

2. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 1 

Jul 10, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela (10) moves the ball ahead of Portland Timbers defender Zarek Valentin (16) during the first half at Banc of California Stadium. (Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports)

For the second time in three weeks, Carlos Vela is not in the No. 1 position.

Vela has been MLS’ best performer all season, but there are a few small things going against him that allowed a one-spot drop.

In addition to sitting out in Week 19, Vela has a gap in his scoring run since he failed to find the back of the net against Colorado June 28. That is the slight difference between Vela and Josef Martinez, at least for one week. 

1. Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 3

Jun 1, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) reacts after scoring a goal against the Chicago Fire during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)

Josef Martinez failed to extend his streak of two-goal games to four Saturday, but he still found of the back of the net for the Five Stripes. 

Dating back to May 24, Martinez has scored five consecutive games, with eight tallies coming from those contests. 

While his scoring run has been nothing short of impressive, Martinez is still six goals back of Vela in the Golden Boot race.

The post MLS Player Rankings Week 19: Mason Toye rises into top five appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

There are only two teams who have unchanged positions in the Week 19 Pro Soccer USA MLS Power Rankings — No. 1 Los Angeles Football Club, which has outscored opponents, 14-3, in three consecutive wins, while Columbus Crew SC maintain its spot at the basement after a fifth straight loss.

The biggest movers are the San Jose Earthquakes, who rumble up six spots after a Cali Clasico sweep of the LA Galaxy, while the New York Red Bulls move up two spots to No. 3 after a Hudson River Derby win over New York City FC.

The New England Revolution continue to trend up, jumping three spots to No. 14 following a 2-2 draw with D.C. United, while Minnesota United breaks into the top 10 after beating FC Dallas 1-0 for their fourth straight victory.

The Major League Soccer Power Rankings are created by averaging the rankings submitted by a committee of Pro Soccer USA’s editors and writers.

Pro Soccer USA writer Dylan Butler contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 19: San Jose Earthquakes climb to No. 2 after Clasico sweep appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Dick’s Sporting Goods Park was the backdrop of an international friendly between two Kroenke-owned football clubs as the Colorado Rapids hosted English Premier League giants Arsenal on Monday evening.

With Colorado in the midst of its league campaign and Arsenal ramping up its preseason, both clubs entered the match with lineups heavy on reserves and youth players.

“I’m so happy for the fans to be able to experience something like this,” said Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey. “They’re a good team so you see the level and a great exercise for our guys who haven’t seen as many minutes.”

Arsenal was equally pleased to work out its young players.

“It’s our first match,” Arsenal manager Unai Emery said of the game. “We were working well in Los Angeles. It’s good to use different young players and to show the quality and commitment to work and to be with the team. This moment is for the young players.”

Arsenal newcomer Gabriel Martinelli had the game’s first clear chance, sending a shot wide in the 4th minute. The visitors opened the scoring in the 14th minute as Arsenal midfielder James Olayinka sent in a slicing through ball to Bukayo Saka, who chipped the ball past Rapids goalkeeper Clint Irwin for the 1-0 lead.

Recalled from his USL loan in Charlotte, Rapids forward Niki Jackson nearly equalized for the hosts two minutes later, but his shot also went wide of the mark.

“He was physically a lot to handle,” Casey said of Jackson’s performance. “We’ve been tracking him and he brings some physicality to the game.”

Martinelli had another clear opportunity in the 17th minute, but that shot missed just outside of the far post.

Olayinka added a goal of his own in the 29th minute, taking a shot from outside the 18-yard box and burying it into the upper 90, doubling Arsenal’s lead to 2-0.

Colorado homegrown Cole Bassett put a shot on target in the 41st minute, but it was calmly saved by Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Macey.

Despite it being a friendly, the game did feature a booking, with Rapids defender Kofi Opare earning a yellow card just before the half with a hard tackle on Nketiah.

In first half extra time, the Rapids nearly found an equalizer, with Johan Blomberg’s initial effort parried away by Macey and a follow up effort from Dillon Serna cleared away.

Out of the half, players from the Rapids’ USL affiliate, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks subbed into the match as midfielders Kwasi Donsu and Jordan Schweitzer subbed in for regulars Cole Basset and Nicolas Mezquida.

“It was just a great experience for those guys and they showed well,” said Casey. “They should take a lot of confidence going back to the Switchbacks.”

Arsenal continued to show its quality into the second half, adding a third goal as midfielder Dominic Thompson connected with Martinelli, who scored his debut goal for the club.

“I want to give every young player chances to be with us,” Emery said. “First on the training ground and then in matches like today. [Players like Martinelli] will earn the opportunity to play with us.”

The second half also featured several Arsenal regulars subbing into the match, including defenders Sead Kolasinac, Shkodran Mustafi and attackers Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil, but none were able to find the scoresheet, with both Aubemeyang and Lacazette missing easy chances on Colorado’s doorstep. 

Both sides saw out the match with 3-0 marking the final result.

“It’s different competition,” said Emery. “They are playing in the league and a good match for them to show themselves in front of their supporters. It was a good game for both teams and I wish them the best in [MLS].”

Arsenal will now travel to Los Angeles to face Bayern Munich in an International Champions Cup match (11 p.m. ET), while Colorado will return to MLS action, hosting NYCFC Saturday (9 p.m. ET)

The post Arsenal defeat Colorado Rapids 3-0 in debut friendly between Kroenke-owned clubs appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Week 19 in Major League Soccer was already chaotic enough before the first Hudson River Derby of the season kicked off. 

Once the match between the New York Red Bulls and New York City FC was completed, all everyone wanted to talk about was a changed call from a corner kick to a throw-in that led to Daniel Royer’s game-winning goal.

Pro Soccer USA’s Dylan Butler was the pool reporter at Red Bull Arena and received this response from referee Alan Kelly. 

Was the pool reporter for #HudsonRiverDerby #RBNYvNYC heres the response by the officials to the questions I posed regarding #RBNY winning goal #NYCFC #MLS pic.twitter.com/WSog1Saq92

— Dylan Butler (@Dylan_Butler) July 15, 2019

The decision in question occurred in the 60th minute, when assistant referee Corey Rockwell appeared to signal for a corner kick, which we later learned was overruled by Kelly. The Red Bulls took a throw-in instead. 

Royer gets his second! Protests from NYCFC but the goal stands and the Red Bulls take a 2-1 lead in the #NYDerby pic.twitter.com/xmUpt7SlTG

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 15, 2019

The NYCFC players and coaching staff were incensed with the decision, and after the final whistle, they let their opinions loose. 

#NYCFC captain Alex Ring, representing the opinion of his teammates after disputed GW goal: “He (referee Alan Kelly) has to look in the mirror and be brutally honest because he cost us the points today.” #NYDerby #HudsonRiverDerby @NYCFC #RBNY

— Glenn Crooks (@GlennCrooks) July 15, 2019

Although the decision did change the course of the game, NYCFC still had 30 minutes to rally for a second goal, and it wasn’t able to. 

The Red Bulls, who didn’t play well for most of the first half, received an emotional boost from Royer’s second goal of the night and ended up benefiting from that in the final third of the contest. 

You could argue NYCFC should have been better prepared to deal with a quick throw-in, or you could make the case in favor of the Pigeons that they were waiting for the corner kick and getting set to deal with that. 

Regardless of how you view the situation, it left the league stuck in a refereeing controversy in a high-profile match, which is a topic that will continue to generate conversation throughout the week among fans and pundits alike. 

It’s a shame that the biggest talking point from Week 19 is a controversial refereeing decision since there were so many impressive performances to reflect on. 

Elsewhere this weekend, five road teams, including Los Angeles FC on short rest and struggling FC Cincinnati, were victorious, a first-place team suffered a brutal result and there was plenty of late drama that led to home wins for Orlando City and Minnesota United. 

In case you missed anything from Week 19, we have a recap of everything you need to know below. 

Goals of the Week 

Jozy Altidore, Toronto FC

@JozyAltidore #TFCLive | #MTLvTOR | 0-2 pic.twitter.com/Y4nebPAUHL

— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) July 14, 2019

Quincy Amarikwa, DC United 

Quincy Amarikwa's first goal for @dcunited is a beauty! #DCvNE pic.twitter.com/qdgcIb6kLk

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 13, 2019

Sam Nicholson, Colorado Rapids

What a strike from Sam Nicholson! #PORvCOL pic.twitter.com/0sEeGu3VE2

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 14, 2019

Goal of the Year candidate

Raul Ruidiaz, Seattle Sounders 

"A piece of perfection from the Peruvian!"@RaulRuidiazM bags his seventh goal of the season

SEA 1 | ATL 0#SEAvATL pic.twitter.com/t0EcoCGxCy

— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) July 14, 2019

Late game-winning drama 

Minnesota United

The most dramatic finish of the weekend came at Allianz Field, where Mason Toye scored a stoppage-time winner and Vito Mannone saved a penalty at the death.

0-0 after 90 minutes between @MNUFC and @FCDallas.

… until a go-ahead goal and game-saving penalty sealed it pic.twitter.com/Z5w6ewtvH1

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 14, 2019

FC Cincinnati 

Fanendo Adi scored in the 83rd minute to hand FC Cincinnati a 2-1 road win in a weather-delayed match with the Chicago Fire. 

.@fanendo scored his first goal of the season & it proved to be the game-winner tonight!!

Assist by @kekuta16.#CHIvCIN #FCCincy pic.twitter.com/TS2h7brxqZ

— FC Cincinnati (@fccincinnati) July 14, 2019

Orlando City 

Benji Michel scored his first MLS goal in the 84th minute on Saturday night to hand Orlando City a 1-0 win over the Columbus Crew. 

The first career MLS goal for @AlmightBenji!

And how about that assist from Ruan? #ORLvCLB pic.twitter.com/Hcw6hk7u9l

— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) July 14, 2019

Statistical oddities

Both meetings between Portland and Colorado have featured a red card, own goal and penalty kick. 

Four times this season an MLS game has had a red card, an own goal, and a penalty kick.
COL at POR tonight
HOU at COL March 30
PHI at SKC March 10
POR at COL March 2#RCTID

— Mike Donovan (@TheMikeDonovan) July 14, 2019

Orlando City has put only four shots on target in their two games with the Crew, but three of them, including Michel’s game-winning goal, went into the back of the net. 

LAFC’s most impressive win? 

Jul 12, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Diego Rossi (9) celebrates after scoring a goal during the second half against the Houston Dynamo at BBVA Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

LAFC was forced to play on Friday night in Houston just two days after it lost in the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals to the Portland Timbers. 

While most teams would be stuck in a bind, Bob Bradley’s side went into BBVA Compass Stadium and pulled off a 3-1 victory to extend its lead atop the Supporters’ Shield and Western Conference standings. 

Steven Beitashour and Mark-Anthony Kaye were the ironmen of the squad by playing 90 minutes in each contest. 

LAFC will have more high-profile victories throughout the season, but this one might go down as the most impressive since it rotated most of its squad, played on little rest and controlled sections of the game against a dangerous Houston attack. 

The Brian Rowe late-save experience

Orlando City goalkeeper Brian Rowe came up with a huge save in the 88th minute on Saturday night to preserve the Lions’ one-goal lead. 

88' | @ROWE_BRIAN_

1-0 | #ORLvCLB pic.twitter.com/YlzGs3orlv

— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) July 14, 2019

The late denial occurred six days after he made a tremendous last-ditch save to keep Orlando’s contest with the Philadelphia Union tied. 

Add this to the @ROWE_BRIAN_ career highlight reel. stuff. @Allstate | #PHIvORL pic.twitter.com/oP1t8OgduG

— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) July 8, 2019

Stock up, stock down 

Stock up: Jefferson Savarino 

Real Salt Lake’s Jefferson Savarino produced two goals and one assist in the 4-0 thumping of Philadelphia at Rio Tinto Stadium on Saturday. 

What a shot!

Jefferson Savarino with the soft touch and the strong finish!

@realsaltlake leads PHI 1-0 in the second 45’
pic.twitter.com/53TtL67ANW

— ESPN 700 (@ESPN700) July 14, 2019

The 22-year-old Venezuelan, who impressed at the Copa America, now has 18 goals and 18 assists in his three seasons with the Claret and Cobalt. 

The victory combined with losses by Houston and FC Dallas pushed RSL above the red line and into sixth place in the Western Conference. 

Stock up: David Bingham 

Jul 12, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; LA Galaxy goalkeeper David Bingham (1) defends a goal attempt against the San Jose Earthquakes in the first half at Dignity Health Sports Park. The Earthquakes defeated the Galaxy 3-1. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)

David Bingham was the losing goalkeeper in the Cali Clasico on Friday night, but he turned in one of the best individual performances of the weekend with 14 saves. 

Bingham and the LA Galaxy defense faced 32 shots, 16 of which went on target, from the San Jose Earthquakes in a match in which Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s side had the lead for 59 minutes. 

Stock up: Gerso Fernandes

Jul 13, 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Sporting Kansas City midfielder Felipe Gutierrez (21) celebrates his goal with forward Daniel Salloi (20) ad forward Gerso Fernandes (12) and midfielder Yohan Croizet (10) during the second half at BC Place. (Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports)

Gerso Fernandes has been the driving force of Sporting Kansas City’s recent uptick in form. 

Although he didn’t score in Week 18 against Chicago, Gerso was all over the field creating chances. 

In the victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday, Gerso scored once, assisted on a goal and forced an own goal out of Ali Adnan. 

Stock Down: Philadelphia

Jul 13, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake players celebrate a goal by midfielder Albert Rusnak (11) against the Philadelphia Union at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

In the same week in which they gave manager Jim Curtin a two-year contract extension, the Philadelphia Union were completely outplayed by RSL. 

The Union were missing Kai Wagner, Jamiro Monteiro and Ilsinho due to injuries, and they made a plethora of little mistakes that led to goals for the home side at Rio Tinto Stadium.

Philadelphia now has one win in its past five games, but it still holds a four-point advantage over DC United in the Eastern Conference.

Stock down: Montreal 

Jul 13, 2019; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Impact forward Anthony Jackson-Hamel (11) kicks the ball and Toronto FC goalkeeper Quentin Westberg (16) defends during the second half at Stade Saputo. (Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports)

Montreal slipped down to fifth place in the Eastern Conference after suffering its third straight loss in the 401 Derby to Toronto FC. 

Remí Garde’s team has fallen to Atlanta United, Minnesota and Toronto since beating a depleted Portland squad in its first game out of the Concacaf Gold Cup break. 

With Orlando, the New England Revolution, Toronto and NYCFC playing well beneath them, the Impact need to reverse their form as soon as possible to avoid a further slip down the standings. 

The post MLS Week 19 Review: Controversial call takes spotlight on chaotic weekend appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.