Things Are Getting HOT In MLS and "F" Blanco

The playoffs have started again, a time where every game means the world.  Each game is a cup final. With the tight run in at the end of the season it has been like that for a few weeks, now we get down to the nitty gritty.

Seattle 0-0 Houston - I really respect Dominic Kinear, he knows exactly what to do at playoff time, exactly how to prepare his team and his team is always a good bet to make a run.  They played a strong game doing just what they needed to be in a position to advance next week at home.  Though I would love to see additional playoff games in Seattle with the best fans in the league, experience wins out in this one.

Schalke 2-2 Leverkusen - Leverkusen looked the better team by far in this match, up until the final 20 when Schalke was relentless, attacking non-stop and grabbing a point at home.  It is hard to say that Leverkusen blew the points, Schalke was that dominating at the end.  Another reason why Germany has the most competitive league in Europe.

New England 2-1 Chicago - Everything I stated about Dominc Kinear also applies to Steve Nichol in New England.  Every year you can discard the regular season record, when the playoff starts it is a whole new game for his Revs, this year being no exception.  Both teams are devastated by injuries so the season records aren't a good indication of strength, Chicago has 3/4 of their backline, plus their holding mid out.  I hate to say it looks like a mountain too high but I have faith the homefield, which hasn't been kind this year, will bring out the best. 

Chivas 2-2 LA - Great game in the first half, in the second LA decided to not play defanse which turned it into a one sided attck weighted to Chivas.  If LA plays anythng close to that in the return leg they are doomed.  Quite surprised by the result, I felt that LA was in top form coming into the playoffs, we'll see next week...

AJax 3-0 Feyenoord - The most entertaining game of the weekend, a massive Ducth derby between eternal rivals.  Can't beat the mood or excitement level in a match like this one.  Ajax looked tremendous, playing an attacking quick passing style that was as deadly effective as it was enjoyable to watch.  The sublte one-two combos that they were working was as great an example of jogo bonito "the beautiful game" as you'll see.

Milan 1-1 Real Madrid - Another great match, just the type you would expect from two of the most star studded teams in the world.  Great plays, super saves, skill on display everywhere you looked.  I'm on a roll, going to spark up Bayern/Bordeaux next.

On to Blanco.  His announcment that he is leaving the Fire a few days before the biggest match of the season shows what a self centered piece of shit he is.  Shouldn't he be focused on the upcoming match, and if he is not what about the disruption this causes to the team?  I have refrained from commenting on him since he has been on the team but now it is open season.  Good riddance you prima dona maniac!  I'm so gald I won't see anymore backheels to nowhere any longer. 

From the Fire point of view it is not much of a loss.  His star power has diminished at this point, the attendence bump is gone.  On the field he hasn't scored from the run of play since mid-July, that about says it all.  The $$ can be used for another top level player, if not it can be put to use on siging Morco Poppa, re-sigining John Thorrington and Brian McBride and making sure Wilman Conde doesn't go anywhere.  That is the true core of the team.