So the 2008 season kicks off in MLS and optimism abounds. I am gazing at an amazing view of the Rockie Mtns out of my hotel window.
I am in Colorado to broadcast the the Rapids and LA and it is expected to be sold-out. The evening should be chilly.
My first shock was finding out that 9 Rapids players are injured including starters like Ugo Ihemulu, Medhi Ballouchy, Pablo Maestroeni, Colin Clark and it goes on and on.
How can a team have this many injuries going into their opening game? Who is doing the physical training for this club as a number of these injuries are muscular?
Excited to see what impact Christian Gomez will have now that he is a Rapid. They still lack a proven goal-scorer.
Tonite they may just start three players that have played mainly with their reserves.
The Ruud Gullit, prounounced “Hool-it” experiment begins and it is fascinating to see if he can adapt to MLS, it’s policies, teams and players. I hope he takes this serious for the sake of the league.
David Beckham and company arrived at the airport last night to fanfare and all the talk in England is around what his future is with the national team. Looking forward to Beckham bringing some intensity to LA and opening up games with his passing ability. Lots of pressure on DB, Donovan and Ruiz to produce and remain healthy.
Looking forward to seeing Stuart Holden make his way back into the Dynamo midfield after Olympic qualifying and the trial of who becomes Brian Ching’s partner up front continues. The answer to this question could be months away.
Important tone setting results are on the cards today. Only New York and San Jose have the weekend off.
*Another good story comes out of Toronto with 2300 fans expected to make the trip to Columbus, now they just need the on field product.
I for one have had enough of the Bruno Marioni rumors to MLS, please. They even mentioned him here in Colorado. Of course they don’t have a DP slot and will not receive one until 2010 due to the Gomez trade with DC.
Enough talk lets get what should be a great 2008 underway.