Kansas City Wizards » Colorado Rapids

Open Cup

travis — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:46:32 +0000

After a non league victory over the weekend, time to go after the U.S. Open Cup. Not sure why it’s an Open Cup – a funny but logical name – instead of just the US Cup, but it will have to do. The Rapids come to Kansas City – or more specifically Overland Park, Kansas, to play the Wizards at Shawnee Mission North High School. A perfect place for a match in an obscure, yet old tournament. I didn’t know this until recently that the Open Cup is actually 95 years old – pretty decent when you consider the sort of background soccer has in the U.S. Don’t forget to check the local paper. Winner gets a spot in the 16 team field against a team from the lower divisions. Those games start on July 1. More details available here.

Enough about history. Go here for that. Not sure how things will look come kickoff time. I’d expect Lopez to rest, although more starters will play than they did over the weekend. Coach Onalfo might be concerned about repeating the success of 2004, but the league has to be more important, especially with the struggles KC has endured. I think the Wizards could grab a win tonight, but to see them drop out wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world.

Chance Myers starting…

travis — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 02:04:54 +0000

The number one draft pick made his starting debut tonight against Houston. He made his first appearance of the season this week against the Revolution, and showed flashes of what could be a strong rookie season. Wonder if he’ll make it the full 90 tonight. Unfortunately, the game is not on MLS TV so I will either have to watch the replay or have to stick with the highlights only.

Wizards win second in a row

travis — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 02:17:52 +0000

With three goals in the second half, including a late winner from substitute Scott Sealy, the Wizards won their second consecutive game of the season over the Rapids. Conrad scored twice within three minutes off of set pieces. The Rapids fought back to tie it at 2-2 before Sealy’s winner

I’m going to try and watch the game later today, so no thoughts quite yet. Recaps and highlights from MLS (along with a quotesheet) and Soccernet both give a good recap, although tomorrow I’m going to try and have something up in my own words.

Week Two Preview: Colorado Rapids

travis — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 15:45:19 +0000

Lots to talk about before today’s game. Unfortunately, I’m dead tired and don’t have much to say, so I’ve scoured the Internets to bring the best of what’s out there. Ivan Galarcep does a nice piece on the Wizards for soccernet, re-emphasizing that they are the team to watch out for this season. Last week against United the potential was definitely there, and as Trujillo and Claudio Lopez adjust, the attack becomes more dangerous.

This weekend may feature the debut of the number one overall pick in the Super Draft as Chance Myers tries to overcome a toe injury he suffered last week and maybe grab a start. A complete preview as well as injury list is available here on the MLS main page.

The bottom line of this game is simple. Both the Wizards and the Rapids are out to prove that last week was no fluke. The smaller confines of Community America Ballpark should continue to provide a solid homefield advantage for KC, and I see them walking away with a 3-1 victory.

Wizards make wise move, change game time plus highlights

travis — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:34:16 +0000

With the success of the University of Kansas basketball team, the Wizards have moved the kick off of Saturday’s game against the Rapids to 4 PM CT. In case you are in any doubt of that game time, their main page has the goods right here.

This is without a doubt a no-brainer for the Wizards. By leaving the game at the same time, they would lose not only fans coming out to the game, but also television viewers as well. Glad to see an MLS team like that recognizing the demographics of the surrounding area. Although, if you are reading this and live in the proximity, please share your thoughts on the situation. My conclusions are simply educated guesses.

Not much other news to report. Claudio Lopez’ goal against D.C. has him up for the MLS Goal of the Week. Sorry, it’s the Sierra Mist Goal of the Week. His celebration is the picture on the left. Highlights are right here, including the worst possible camera angle ever:

I love how the MLS isn’t like the EPL when it comes to highlights. Enjoy.