I understand the need for friendlies. I understand that bringing in big name teams from Europe draws in more fans, fills seats, puts eyes in front of TVs, sells merchandise. But to schedule your all-star game the same week -- and the same day as a major cup competition is counterproductive to your own league.

Wednesday July 28th, 7:30 CST. MLS All-Stars vs Manchester United.

Wednesday July 28th, 7:00 PST. Seattle Sounders FC vs. AAD Isidro Metapan. Concacaf Champions League.

You'll know where I'll be. Trophies > Friendlies. The Sounders are not the only team having to play ahead of the MLS All Star game. Toronto and LA Galaxy both have games on the 27th. One wonders if Donovan and Buddle will play in the CCL match or get "rested" for the pony show in Houston?

MLS does a disservice to themselves with this seeming lack of support or at the very least lack of scheduling oversight. The league's Don Garber even goes as far as skirt around the Sounders when giving his All-Star address. Way to include one of your very best fanbases, Don.

For that I will show you your second caution. Please leave the field.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

In frustrating fashion, typical of their 2010 season so far, the Sounders FC fell by a scoreline of 3-2 at home on Thursday to a D.C. United side who have been struggling so far this season, although playing better as of late. Starting the game at the bottom of the league table, United knew they had something to prove against the club that edged them out in last years U.S. Open Cup final at their home RFK Stadium back East. If this game was not concrete evidence of just how much Seattle misses injured starters Nate Jaqua, Osvaldo Alonso, and most notably in this fixture, Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, then I’m not sure what would be. It’s easy to dismiss such a loss as merely bad luck or attribute it to players missing from injuries, but when it seems to happen week in, week out, there is clearly something more going on.

From the opening kickoff, the Sounders were the better team. In fact, there was really no point at all in the game where it could be said that DC deserved to win. Once again, the Sounders came out with an absolutely dominating performance on the pitch, putting up a new team record for shots in a match, and came away with absolutely nothing to show for it. Their early play, although relatively sloppy for their own standards, was certainly still the more impressive of the teams as they created countless early chances and brought the deafeningly loud home fans to the edges of their seats (figuratively of course, as we were all standing the entire match anyway) several times. Ljungberg looked fantastic in the early going, creating a flurry of chances from what now seems to be his office, down low in the right corner.

Absolutely all of the chances, possession, and play in general were going the Sounders way, and frustratingly enough as usual, the score remained at zeroes. It’s always great to see Seattle coming forward with that deadly attack and creating countless opportunities, but they are completely meaningless if no one makes the best of those chances. The sour feeling of bygone chances quickly turned into sinking feeling of unease on the 39th minute when a Chris Pontius shot from distance deflected off a Seattle player and sailed past a diving Kasey Keller into the net. Despite the setback, the Sounders continued on the attack for the next few minutes, disrupted slightly by a yellow card caution given to Freddie Ljungberg for a fairly vicious shove to the back of a DC defender. Their unease, however, was converted to despair after another Chris Pontius strike from distance. What should have been an absolutely routine save from Keller turned into a nightmare as the ball slipped out of his hands and could not manage to tip it outside the post with a final diving attempt. By the time the halftime whistle sounded off, most of the Seattle crowd were standing in stunned silence.

The second half continued much in the same fashion as the first, with Seattle seemingly on the attack the entire time. Countless more chances were wasted and the crowd became more and more silent with each passing minute. It felt at times as if there were some sort of invisible force keeping the ball out of the DC net, because for the life of me I cannot understand any other reason for the Sounders not to at least bring the game within one. There was also a much more visible force holding down the DC net though, and that was of goaltender Troy Perkins, who had an absolute stunner of a game. He made saves when it was needed of him and did everything that DC coach Onalfo could have asked. However, there were very few, if any times where he was forced to produce true quality saves, and it was certainly not a performance reminiscent of Zach Thornton’s absolute steal of a game last season when Chivas took on Seattle under similar circumstances.

The final nail in the coffin came in the 79th minute, as Chris Pontius completed what was probably the worst hat trick I’ve ever seen (nothing taken away from the play of Pontius, but I’m sure even he would admit that none of his goals were particularly impressive, let alone intentional). This absolutely silenced the home crowd at Qwest, and hundreds began making way for the exits. All I can say to these people is: your team never gives up on you. Despite a performance which we’ve become almost accustomed to this season, the Sounders never say die. Down three goals, they continued to give it their full 90, despite the departure of several thousand fair weather band-wagon fans. The home side made things a bit more interesting with a 90th minute goal by James Riley, who spent more of the 2nd half near the top of the DC box than in his own half, and was finally rewarded with a beautiful goal to bring the Sounders a bit closer. I heard several cries of “too little, too late”, which were all but silenced when Seattle scored again only a minute later when Fredy Montero leaped up and headed home an absolutely perfect cross in from Freddie Ljungberg. It did prove to be too little, too late though, as the men in green got one more chance before hearing the final whistle bring their comeback dreams to an end.

Seattle fans have quite a bit to look forward to in the upcoming weeks though. Aside from the excitement of the 2010 World Cup, the MLS break for the tournament will also allow some ailing Sounders players to continue their recoveries. I would not be surprised to see Jaqua and Alonso back on the pitch when Seattle takes on Philadelphia on June 27th, which aside from being a massive morale boost for the club, will also hopefully be a boost in points on the table. In addition, Swiss striker Blaise N’Kufo is set to join the team around July 15th (which, coincidentally, is the same date that they next take on DC United) and looks to make a huge impact up front for a team which has been struggling to score since day one of their current MLS campaign. A few games have been absolutely stolen from them, and a few games they’ve simply stolen from themselves, but there is still a lot of time left in the season and a lot of football left to play.

In a final bit of editorial (I tried my best not to include a personal rant, but after watching this game, I almost felt like I had no choice), I would like to say to Pat Noonan: Pat, we know you were a great player, but you need to prove to us that you deserve to be a Sounder. Mediocrity and half-hearted play are not now, have not ever, and will not ever be acceptable for our club. If you’d like to play at your own pace and give up when things aren’t going your way, perhaps you should try a contract with Toronto FC instead. I want to see you (if you get the start) come out in the next match flying and show us why Adrian and Sigi chose you to fill in the role we needed. We know you’re good enough, we’ve seen glimpses of your skill and scoring ability in the Boca game. Show us you can still compete and produce when it matters. We’re all looking forward to it.

MORE POINTS!!!

If you agree, wear this twibbon til Sounders make

9 points!

Get the Twibbon

Sorry for the CAPS  but I’m a little SOUNDARCHISTIC right now.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Up until this game, I’d only seen pictures and a few brief videos of the new Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey but I was even more impressed seeing it on the big screens at Meconi’s. Although probably not as full as the Red Bull front office would have hoped, the 18,000 or so who were in attendance certainly helped contribute to the European atmosphere that seemed to be a constant throughout the game. This wasn’t, however, limited only to the fans and venue. New York, reinvigorated after a dismal season last year, are playing some of the best soccer I’ve ever seen them play. Their style of play is actually fairly similar to that of the Sounders, focusing on pure tactics and finesse rather than brute force and overpowering the opposition with hard tackles and cheapshots (I’m looking at you, Houston). Both teams came out of the gate looking solid, and the fans could tell from the early going that they were in for a treat.

It only took a minute or two for the offense to pick up, as Ljungberg whipped in a free kick from outside the box, resulting in a Seattle corner. Leo Gonzalez made a pretty ambitious attempt at what would have been a wonder goal from outside the box, but missed wide and New York came back up the field with a goal kick from keeper Bouna Condoul. The rest of the first half continued at about the same pace, as both teams traded possessions, skilled passes, and chances at goal. Both designated players, Freddie Ljungberg and Juan Pablo Angel looked dangerous throughout the half (and throughout the game as a whole), but neither could find the back of the net or an assist on the score sheet during the first half. Regardless, it was the type of play the MLS expects to see from their designated players, raising the level of play to something beyond entertaining (I’m looking at you again, Houston… Toronto as well). Although Beckham is obviously the biggest name of the designated players in the league, Ljungberg and Angel both proved Saturday why they make the big bucks, and why fans come from all around to see them play. It was a much needed boost of confidence for Freddie after a poor outing against Los Angeles the previous week (although in his defense, he was the least of Seattle’s worries in what was probably the worst performance as a team in its short history).

The second half brought more of the same, as both teams once again came out flying. Seattle came closest to opening the score with a brilliant play by Sanna Nyassi, who slotted the ball around an out of position Condoul, only to see it stopped near the line by a New York defender at the last second. The chances kept coming, and the solid midfield play from both teams kept fans on their seat edges from coast to coast. Finally, Montero was subbed on in the 78th minute, making an already dangerous Seattle attack look even more likely to score. As if on cue, within only a few minutes of taking to the pitch, he put the Sounders up 1-0, making him the second late substitute by Sigi to grab a game winning goal for Seattle. Although many fans may have questioned his choices with the lineup before kickoff, his changes appeared absolutely genius once again, giving the Sounders just the boost they needed to bring home three points. Marshall took a free kick quickly and laid the ball off to midfielder/forward Brad Evans, who swung in an absolute stunner of a cross from distance. The ball found itself right in the path of a run from the speedy Montero, who finished calmly and without hesitation, trapping the ball deftly off his chest to his thigh before settling and finishing in almost a single motion.

It was exactly the shot in the arm Seattle needed at this point in their season, where they began the day in last place in the Western Conference. The race for the playoffs looks to be even more interesting than last season if the pace in the west keeps up as such, with only three points separating last place from second place. On any given week, a lucky bounce or a bad break can put a team anywhere from near the top to the absolute cellar of the table. It will definitely be interesting to see if this continues as the season goes on or if a few teams begin to pull away and compete with Los Angeles for the top spot. At this point, however, I think we (as Sounders fans) are all just happy to get a win and put three points back on the board. We can only hope for more of the same as the boys take on the San Jose Earthquakes this Saturday at Qwest Field for a 6:00pm kickoff.

by: Brian Anderson — blyan@me.com — @blyan on Twitter.

Major League Soccer chat with Sounders FC midfielder Steve Zakuani
(05/20/2010)
3:05

Robert Wickwire, Times:
Thanks for joining us. Please send in your questions. Steve is a bit delayed and will be here shortly.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:05 Robert Wickwire, Times
3:06

Steve Zakuani:
Hey I’m glad to be here. I’m looking forward to interacting.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:06 Steve Zakuani
3:07

[Comment From Ryan: ]
Do you miss Ohio and the midwest at all? What about London?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:07 Ryan
3:07

Steve Zakuani:
I don’t miss Ohio too much. I miss college. And I definitely miss London. My entire family is there. I go back as often as I can.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:07 Steve Zakuani
3:08

[Comment From LikkitP: ]
Is there a story behind your post-goal celebration moves?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:08 LikkitP
3:08

Steve Zakuani:
The shake dance, I saw Thierry Henry at Arsenal do that when I went to games and it looked cool.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:08 Steve Zakuani
3:08

[Comment From Marissa: ]
Why do you think the Sounders are having difficulty finishing their shots on goal?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:08 Marissa
3:09

Steve Zakuani:
I just think it’s postive that we’re creating the amount of chances that we are creating. And sooner, rather than later we’ll start converting them.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:09 Steve Zakuani
3:09

[Comment From Rob Walker: ]
Steve, On twitter you occasionally talk about the Fifa games between Fredy, Ozzi, Sanna and you. I was wondering, what teams do you use?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:09 Rob Walker
3:10

Steve Zakuani:
Me and Sanna use Chelsea. Always. Fredy and Ozzie use Real Madrid.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:10 Steve Zakuani
3:10

Steve Zakuani:
We play everyday. Before training. After training.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:10 Steve Zakuani
3:10

[Comment From J_Seattle: ]
How do you expect your play/position to change once Nkufo arrives?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:10 J_Seattle
3:11

Steve Zakuani:
I don’t think it will change at all. I think my main job will stay be to get the ball to the forwards and he’s obviously someone who’s proven he can score goals as well. That will be a good thing.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:11 Steve Zakuani
3:11

[Comment From RallyBlues: ]
What does your brother Gabriel think of your success, the Sounders as a club and the MLS?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:11 RallyBlues
3:11

Steve Zakuani:
He’s happy. He was here for the Colorado game last year. He was impressed by the fans and the stadium. And he’ll be here next month for the D.C. game.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:11 Steve Zakuani
3:12

[Comment From Greg: ]
Having spent time in the Arsenal youth system how do you feel about Henry’s possible entrance into MLS?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:12 Greg
3:12

Steve Zakuani:
It’s great for the league. He’s one of the leading players from the last 10 years. It can only add to the level of interest worldwide in MLS. Also the level of play will go up.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:12 Steve Zakuani
3:13

[Comment From Patrick: ]
Did you have any idea Seattle was going to be this kind of soccer town as the draft was going and you were selected?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:13 Patrick
3:13

Steve Zakuani:
No. I’d heard they’d sold at the time 19,000 season tickets so I wanted to come here. But it’s been unbelievable. After the first game of the season last year against New York, Freddie Ljungberg came up to me and said, "This is just like Europe."
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:13 Steve Zakuani
3:14

[Comment From etoos magical boot: ]
Hey Steve, though I loved your style of play last year, this year it seems you’ve been 100% better of a player. Does the shoulder surgery or added experience have more to do with that?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:14 etoos magical boot
3:14

Steve Zakuani:
I just think it’s a natural progression from Year One to Year Two. It happened in college between my freshman year and sophomore year. And I’ve worked on my game. I’ve done a lot of work.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:14 Steve Zakuani
3:15

[Comment From Jesse Bancroft: ]
Steve, We are so proud to have you on our team and such a strong piece of our force as well! Do you see yourself staying in seattle for a bit?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:15 Jesse Bancroft
3:16

Steve Zakuani:
I’m here for as long as the club wants me. Obviously if the opportunity to take my game to the next level comes along I’d consider it.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:16 Steve Zakuani
3:16

[Comment From Jamie: ]
What is your favorite part about seatte?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:16 Jamie
3:16

Steve Zakuani:
There’s so much to do here. There’s such a variety. Mountain-bike trails, the walk by the seafront. I also think there are a lot of good restaurants here.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:16 Steve Zakuani
3:16

[Comment From Matt: ]
How has the attitude changed of the team since the LA loss?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:16 Matt
3:17

Steve Zakuani:
It hasn’t changed much. It was just a bad day at the office. We haven’t been inconsistent this year. We’ve been in every game that we played and we’re going to keep going that way. And make sure that doesn’t happen again.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:17 Steve Zakuani
3:17

[Comment From Arsenal74: ]
What other sports do you have interest in?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:17 Arsenal74
3:18

Steve Zakuani:
I love the NBA. This is from I was in England, when the Lakers were going on their three-peat, I fell in love with them. Kobe is my favorite athlete.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:18 Steve Zakuani
3:18

[Comment From Chris: ]
Steve, do you walk onto the field with the mentality that you can take on any outside back and get by them?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:18 Chris
3:19

Steve Zakuani:
Definitely. I really don’t care who I’m playing against. If he stops me nine times, I’ll still get him on the tenth time.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:19 Steve Zakuani
3:19

[Comment From Christopher: ]
I read on twitter about you writing lyrics. What kind of lyrics do you write?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:19 Christopher
3:19

Steve Zakuani:
When I was 15 in England, me and my friends from the neighborhood used to write rap lyrics. I gave it up when I came here. And then I bumped into my friend Ryan Smith (of the Kansas City Wizards) and picked it up again.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:19 Steve Zakuani
3:20

[Comment From Ryan: ]
Who are you picking as the winner for the World Cup? What about the game between England and the USA?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:20 Ryan
3:21

Steve Zakuani:
I honestly think England will win that game. I’m going to be in England during the game, in the pub with my England shirt. Overall, I think Spain will win it all.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:21 Steve Zakuani
3:21

[Comment From Galen Helmgren: ]
The Sounders will be playing several more games this season vs. 2010 because of U.S. Open Cup and CONCACAF matches. What will the team do to stay at full strength late into the season?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:21 Galen Helmgren
3:22

Steve Zakuani:
I think we have a very deep squad. And last year we managed OK. This year should be no problem.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:22 Steve Zakuani
3:22

[Comment From airkeeper: ]
Do you have any pre-match superstitions or rituals?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:22 airkeeper
3:22

Steve Zakuani:
It’s not a superstition, but I always dress the left side of my body first. Left sock, left shinguard, left shoe. I don’t know when it started.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:22 Steve Zakuani
3:23

[Comment From Al: ]
Who do you think is the Sounders fastest player?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:23 Al
3:23

Steve Zakuani:
I’ll be honest. We did a 30-yard speed test and Fucito got the fastest time. Obviously I wasn’t too happy about that and I’m going to maintain that soccer-wise, on the field, I’m the fastest.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:23 Steve Zakuani
3:24

[Comment From Sam in Puyallup: ]
My 12 year old daughter plays as an attacking left winger and has had some success. What position specific advise would you give her?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:24 Sam in Puyallup
3:24

Steve Zakuani:
I’d tell her to work on her crossing and also cutting inside and shooting. Those are good tools to have as an outside mid.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:24 Steve Zakuani
3:24

[Comment From Rob Walker: ]
if you could change one thing about the MLS, what would it be?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:24 Rob Walker
3:25

Steve Zakuani:
I would like to see them get rid of the East and West. There are enough teams now for a single table.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:25 Steve Zakuani
3:25

[Comment From Seattlefan1: ]
as a player where do you see your self in the next maybe 5 years?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:25 Seattlefan1
3:26

Steve Zakuani:
I hope I am a much better player than I am now. And I also hope to be back home in Europe playing at a decent level.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:26 Steve Zakuani
3:27

[Comment From Patrick Leonard: ]
You’re by far my favorite sounders play, I love you swagger on the field. Which pro’s influenced your style of play?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:27 Patrick Leonard
3:27

Steve Zakuani:
Thierry Henry and Ronaldinho. They’re the two players I grew up watching the most. And I still can spend hours on YouTube watching their videos.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:27 Steve Zakuani
3:28

[Comment From Sam in Puyallup: ]
Which defender or team challenges you the most personally?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:28 Sam in Puyallup
3:29

Steve Zakuani:
The best defender I played last season was Kevin Alston (New England’s right back), we played against each other in college and he knows me quite well.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:29 Steve Zakuani
3:29

[Comment From LikkitP: ]
When I used to play competitively, I always found going 1v1 against the keeper the hardest thing to do. What goes through your mind as you approach that tipping point between shot or attempting to go around?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:29 LikkitP
3:30

Steve Zakuani:
The most important thing is to stay composed and wait as long as you can to see what the ‘keeper does. If he moves one side or the other, you go to the side he left. If he doesn’t move you go around him. That’s exactly what I did against Columbus.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:30 Steve Zakuani
3:30

[Comment From etoos magical boott: ]
Who would win in a fashion contest you or Ljungberg?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:30 etoos magical boot
3:31

Steve Zakuani:
I would kill him. Before he came here, I always thought he had amazing fashion sense. But some stuff I see from him is just shocking
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:31 Steve Zakuani
3:31

Steve Zakuani:
At least he dares to be different.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:31 Steve Zakuani
3:31

[Comment From Ian H.: ]
What do you think about the recent formation changes? Is Sigi sticking with the 4-5-1 or 4-3-3?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:31 Ian H.
3:32

Steve Zakuani:
I don’t the formation has really changed much. I think if anything it’s just allowed us to have more specific roles to get the best out of us.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:32 Steve Zakuani
3:32

[Comment From giftedsoul: ]
hey steve i am a sounders fan from both your homtown’s of London and Kinshasa and i was wondering given the opportunity to play internationally for England or the Democratic Republic of Congo which would you prefer?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:32 giftedsoul
3:33

Steve Zakuani:
Right now in my heart I have to play for Congo. But I don’t know what I’d do if both teams came to me and asked me to play for them at the same time.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:33 Steve Zakuani
3:33

[Comment From Kirk: ]
What is your favourite restaurant in Seattle?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:33 Kirk
3:34

Steve Zakuani:
I love Caribbean and African food. There’s a place on Rainier Ave. called Island Soul.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:34 Steve Zakuani
3:34

[Comment From @mowsley: ]
When do you expect kingdom hope to become a reality and how can we get involved?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:34 @mowsley
3:35

Steve Zakuani:
It is a reality. We have a fundraising event coming up in the next couple months and we’ll have soccer camps to follow. Check back on the website, http://www.kingdom-hope.org
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:35 Steve Zakuani
3:35

[Comment From Arsenal74: ]
Who are your favorite music groups/artists?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:35 Arsenal74
3:36

Steve Zakuani:
They’re all English. I like Leona Lewis and a guy called Dizzee Rascal. They are both from the same neighborhood as me.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:36 Steve Zakuani
3:37

[Comment From John: ]
Which MLS team do you feel the Sounders have the biggest rivalry with right now?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:37 John
3:37

Steve Zakuani:
When Portland and Vancouver get here, that will be something.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:37 Steve Zakuani
3:37

[Comment From at: ]
What has been the most memorable Sounders moment for you?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:37 at
3:38

Steve Zakuani:
When after L.A. scored their fourth goal and all the fans stood up and started clapping and singing. That was an emotional moment and showed me how special the fans in Seattle are.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:38 Steve Zakuani
3:39

[Comment From David Deen: ]
AS a young player you faced a serious setback in the form of a serious knee injury..many others in that same situation would have given up,what kept you going to overcome it?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:39 David Deen
3:39

Steve Zakuani:
I had a dream that I could be where I am today. Also my mom, she was incredible. She never let me give up on my dream.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:39 Steve Zakuani
3:40

[Comment From airkeeper: ]
What supporters’ chant gets you and your teammates pumped up most?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:40 airkeeper
3:41

Steve Zakuani:
When the fans go, "Seattle…… Sounders!" and also when they go "Come on Sounders score a goal, score a goal, score a goooooal."
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:41 Steve Zakuani
3:42

[Comment From Andrew: ]
What are your interests and hobbies outside of soccer?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:42 Andrew
3:42

Steve Zakuani:
I read a lot, especially biographies. I also play a bit of basketball. I’m not very good at all.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:42 Steve Zakuani
3:43

Steve Zakuani:
Me and Patrick Ianni play a lot. We have a bit of a rivalry going on.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:43 Steve Zakuani
3:43

[Comment From Joe R: ]
What are your thoughts about Portland and Vancouver joining MLS?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:43 Joe R
3:43

Steve Zakuani:
It’s going to be great for this entire Northwest area.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:43 Steve Zakuani
3:43

[Comment From Guest: ]
How is Sigi as a coach?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:43 Guest
3:44

Steve Zakuani:
He’s a guy who knows exactly what he wants. He’s very clear in how he gets his message across. Individually, he’s helped me so much. I have nothing but respect for him as a coach.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:44 Steve Zakuani
3:45

[Comment From Diego: ]
How do you feel about the World Cup taking place in your continent?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:45 Diego
3:45

Steve Zakuani:
Very proud. I’ve always said that it won’t be too long until as African nation wins the World Cup. It might not be this time, but sometime soon.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:45 Steve Zakuani
3:46

[Comment From Jocelyn: ]
Who is the best footballer of all time?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:46 Jocelyn
3:47

Steve Zakuani:
It’s impossible to say. Different people have dominated at different times. But my favorite of all time is Ronaldinho, and also Maradona and Zidane.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:47 Steve Zakuani
3:47

[Comment From jen: ]
what’s your favorite meal you miss back home?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:47 jen
3:48

Steve Zakuani:
Rice, jerk chicken and some plantains. That was my mom’s specialty.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:48 Steve Zakuani
3:48

[Comment From Guest: ]
Which is the hardest away stadium to play in?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:48 Guest
3:49

Steve Zakuani:
At Qwest Field we’re so used to having so many fans that it’s easy to get pumped up for the game. When we go to a stadium with hardly any fans in it, it’s hard to get that same motivation. You have to get it somewhere else.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:49 Steve Zakuani
3:50

[Comment From Patrick Leonard: ]
Who is your favorite teammates to hangout with outside of playing?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:50 Patrick Leonard
3:51

Steve Zakuani:
I room with Patrick Ianni, so we’ve become close. James Riley doesn’t live too far away either. A lot of the guys are my age, so I’ve spent a lot of time with Michael Fucito, Fredy Montero and also Pete Vagenas, who’s older than me but a good guy to be around.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:51 Steve Zakuani
3:51

[Comment From Guest: ]
How do you guys prepare for a team like Boca Juniors or any other exhibition match with a notable team from another league?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:51 Guest
3:51


Steve Zakuani:
You don’t prepare in the same way you would for an MLS team. This is more about the experience and every single player getting playing time.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:51 Steve Zakuani
3:52

[Comment From Guest: ]
Which African team do you think will surprise this time at the World Cup?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:52 Guest
3:52


Steve Zakuani:
I like the Ivory Coast. At the same time, I think England the U.S. need to be aware of Algeria. They’re a decent team.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:52 Steve Zakuani
3:53

[Comment From bmvaughn bmvaughn: ]
What did you think of Red Bull Arena last week? We loved cheering for you from section 220 up in the rafters!
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:53 bmvaughn
3:53


Steve Zakuani:
Thanks for coming. It was a fantastic stadium.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:53 Steve Zakuani
3:54

[Comment From Daisy: ]
are there any pranks you have played on your mates?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:54 Daisy
3:56


Steve Zakuani:
Sometimes after training when someone’s in the shower, I fill up a Gatorade tub with ice-cold water and then pour it over them. One time, the tub was empty and I came up on Ozzie, and I’ve never seen so much fear in someone’s face. He was very relieved when it was empty.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:56 Steve Zakuani
3:56

[Comment From Tim: ]
In the future would you rather play in a World Cup or a Champions League Final?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:56 Tim
3:56

Steve Zakuani:
A World Cup final. Because it would mean that my prediction could come true of an African team winning it all.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:56 Steve Zakuani
3:57

[Comment From funkyv: ]
Did you set any specific goals for yourself this season (i.e. number of goals, points, or assists)
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:57 funkyv
3:57

Steve Zakuani:
I never set those kind of goals. I don’t really believe in statistics too much. I just worry about playing well, and goals and assists become a byproduct.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:57 Steve Zakuani
3:58

[Comment From Jocelyn: ]
Who is the funniest player on the team?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:58 Jocelyn
3:58

Steve Zakuani:
Pete Vagenas. Hands down.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:58 Steve Zakuani
3:58

[Comment From Noah: ]
Do you think you guys are playing as good as you should be? Honestly?
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:58 Noah
3:59

Steve Zakuani:
Before the start of the season, I said the expectation levels of us were unrealistic because of what we did last year. Things we did that were great last year are just average this year. I don’t think we’ve hit top form yet, but we aren’t playing too bad either.
Thursday May 20, 2010 3:59 Steve Zakuani
4:00

[Comment From Jeremy: ]
Your cleats are awesome, what brand/type are they?
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:00 Jeremy
4:00

Steve Zakuani:
I’ve got an endorsement deal with Adidas. Through the World Cup I have to wear the yellow ones. They are called AdiZeros.
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:00 Steve Zakuani
4:01

Robert Wickwire, Times:
Steve has time for a few more questions.
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:01 Robert Wickwire, Times
4:01

[Comment From Katy and Niki: ]
What do you expect to see from Miguel Montano, from his debut he seems to be promising?
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:01 Katy and Niki
4:02

Steve Zakuani:
When a player has that much talent and they’re that young, they are fearless. Nothing fazes them. So I wasn’t surprised when he came on and did what he did. I’m excited for his future.
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:02 Steve Zakuani
4:02

[Comment From yoyomuah: ]
What inspired the mohawk?
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:02 yoyomuah
4:03

Steve Zakuani:
Before the first game of every year I have a different hair design. I was supposed to keep the mohawk just for one game, but I liked it too much. I might bring it back soon.
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:03 Steve Zakuani
4:04

[Comment From Jeremy: ]
Earlier you mentioned you enjoy basketball, while at Univ. of Akron, did you get a chance to see LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavs?
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:04 Jeremy
4:05

Steve Zakuani:
Two of Lebron’s high-school teammates played on the Akron team when I was there. So he’d always be at the games and would hold camps there, so I’ve met him a few times.
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:05 Steve Zakuani
4:05

Steve Zakuani:
Thanks for the all the questions. Sorry I couldn’t answer them all. I’ll see you on Saturday.
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:05 Steve Zakuani
4:05

Steve Zakuani:
Scarves up!
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:05 Steve Zakuani
4:05

Robert Wickwire, Times:
Thanks for all the questions and a special thanks to Steve for taking the time to chat today.
Thursday May 20, 2010 4:05 Robert Wickwire, Times
4:06

No, the title does not refer to the domination displayed this season by the Los Angeles Galaxy. Yesterday, the Seattle Sounders FC seemed as if they were mentally on a completely different planet, and not in a good way. Absolutely awful performances pretty much across the board let the Galaxy essentially walk to what was probably their easiest and most convincing victory of the season (and equaled the Sounders worst regular season loss in team history). The defense looked lazy, the midfield looked apathetic, the forwards were seemingly nowhere to be found, and even Keller looked lackadaisical in goal. I really have no explanation whatsoever for what happened. The crowd were silenced and stunned, save for a few spells of loud booing at the referees. Unfortunately, even the refs can’t take credit for the dismal performance put in by nearly every player on the pitch wearing the rave green. I think that the fan leaving the stadium next to me put it best in saying: “Someone needs to put out a missing persons report for the brains and hearts of our players today.” To be put simply: yesterday’s game was absolutely inexcusable and the fans of Seattle expect more.

That is of course not to say that the Galaxy didn’t deserve to win the game. Both Landon Donovan and Edson Buddle had stellar (no pun intended) performances, with Donovan notching a goal — his first of the season — and three assists. Both teams actually looked fairly even until the 22nd minute when Jovan Kirovski received a pass from Donovan and knocked a weak shot towards Keller, directly at his hands, who somehow let it through for the first goal of the game. Although this caused a bit of concern among the fans, things still seemed to be under control, and most of us chalked it up to an unlucky mistake. Even Kasey makes an occasional error. The slight concern quickly turned into a queasy feeling of a day going horribly wrong when Osvaldo Alonso, who up until that point had been by far the most offensively dangerous Sounder, went down injured and called for a substitution in the 35th minute. He was taken off to the sidelines and eventually subbed off in favor of Nathan Sturgis. It was later disclosed that Alonso suffered from a right quad strain.

The rest of the half was more of the same, over-passing by the Sounders, an absurd amount of offsides calls, and absolute ineffectiveness in just about every aspect of the game. Despite being down by a goal, the halftime statistics were actually even in many categories between the two teams. I won’t even bother with a recap of the remainder of the game, because we all know what happened. Absolute dominance from the visitors in combination with probably the worst defensive and offensive performance the Sounders have ever given ended in a 4-0 loss. There was, however, one or two really bright moments for the Sounders and their fans. In the 58th minute, Miguel Montaño was substituted on for fellow countryman Fredy Montero, making his first ever appearance in MLS at only 18 years of age, after his work permit finally cleared and he officially signed his Sounders contract on April 30th. Although the Galaxy did score another goal after his entrance, Seattle looked a much different team offensively and actually looked like they might score for the first time in the match. Montaño has great vision, excellent footwork, and even better speed down the wings, all of which contributed to his creation of several Sounders scoring chances. To help aid in the young speedy winger department, Sanna Nyassi was subbed on in the 70th minute to play opposite Montaño on the right wing. Both of them looked dangerous, creative, and actually tried to put the ball in the net. I’m not sure if it was part of the game plan or if players were just trying to be too cutesy and unselfish, but nearly every scoring chance that was created went by the wayside because of overpassing in the offensive third.

Sounders coach Sigi Schmid addressed this topic in his post-game press conference, noting that some players put in unacceptable performances and that changes would be made for the match next weekend away at New York. Being nothing more than a fervent supporter and occasional blogger, I obviously have no say in the matter but if I did, here’s what our lineup next week would look like:

Fucito – Montaño
Levesque – Alonso – Vagenas – Nyassi
Gonzalez – Ianni – Hurtado – Riley
Boss

I realize that this would be a fairly drastic change to the usual lineup and may not help out for this game in particular, but Sigi needs to send a message to Zakuani, Ljungberg, and Montero that their performances this weekend were absolutely 100% unacceptable as professional footballers. Don’t get me wrong though, I’m not about to jump off the Sounders bandwagon in favor of greener pastures, nor will I ever. The reason we as Seattle fans are so critical (despite the fact that we now have no mens sports teams in Seattle that have ever won a major championship) are because we love them and want them to succeed. I’d love nothing more than to see our stars shine and get back into their top form, but sometimes a message needs to be sent, and this certainly seems like one of those times. The changes however, do not only reflect poor performances by some of the players who are supposed to be providing goals, but also a reward for some of the lesser known substitutes that have looked great so far this season. Fucito, despite playing in only a couple games due to injury, has looked absolutely spectacular (see: article on the game against Kansas City). Nyassi has looked dangerous, quick, and infinitely more confident that he did at any point last season. Montaño, as highlighted earlier, was one of the very few bright spots from yesterday’s embarrassing loss against Los Angeles. The Boss for Keller change is much less to punish Kasey and much more to just give him a week of rest and clear his mind, giving Terry a chance to redeem an unlucky performance against Dallas in which he was called in cold halfway through the game and asked to save a stoppage time penalty against last year’s golden boot winner, Cunningham. In short: Seattle Sounders, we still love you very much, but you need to wake up your stars and make some changes, because you should be dominating this league with the roster you have (aside from maybe the Galaxy, who really do have star quality and team effectiveness at nearly every position). We expect better. If you’re in the Tacoma area and you’d like to join us for the game next week, myself and members of Gorilla FC and Immortal Fury will be at Meconi’s on Pacific Ave at 4:30pm Saturday to watch a re-invigorated Seattle Sounders FC take on RBNY.