Dynamo Defused!! Houston Reserves 0-1 Charleston

The Charleston Battery vaulted back into second place in the USL Pro standings with a resplendent performance Sunday morning, defeating the Houston Dynamo Reserves at BBVA Compass Stadium.  Making a strong argument for the virtues of lower division soccer, the Battery toppled arguably the best  Reserve Squad in the country (on their own turf), handing them their first loss of the season.

Although faced with a daunting road trip and a minor injury crisis, Charleston took the pitch as if they owned it.  Defender Taylor Mueller nearly opened the scoring in the 4th minute, but his headed shot arched over the crossbar.  And it was the Battery defense that kept things level, squelching several Dynamo attempts in the early going.  Momentum swung dramatically in favor of the visitors just after the quarter hour mark.  Springboarding from a critical stop by Odisnel Cooper, it was nearly all Charleston for the remainder of the half.  Jose Cuevas pulled the trigger before an open net in the 16th minute, but his effort sailed just wide.  Entering into a brilliant spell of possession, the Battery harried Houston's defense in a shot-a-minute term leading up to the half hour mark.  On 30 minutes, the Dynamo managed a lightning-counter and forced a fine punch save from Cooper.  However, Captain Colin Falvey collided aerially with the lunging goalie and was temporary removed from play in what proved to be a harmless but scary moment for Battery fans.

The eventual breakthrough would come in the 35th minute, as Charleston scored with play resulting from a free kick in Houston's defensive third.  Cuevas slotted the set piece to an advancing Emmanuel Adjety.  Crossing quickly, Dane Kelly was given the ball and room to work with.  The crafty Jamaican promptly put the Battery in front with a low shot to the far post.  Houston took the sucker-punch in stride and forced another save from Cooper within a minute of the goal.  However, long bouts of possession allowed Charleston to maintain the upper hand.

The second half was another chapter of the same story, with Charleston bossing the show by patient possession, running rings round their opponents.  The Dynamo certainly managed plenty of pressure, but the Battery defense was equal to the task.  In the final ten minutes of play, Houston's attack intensified with Brian Ching leading the charge, but Cooper held firm and recorded a handful of clutch saves to preserve all three points for Charleston.

This is an incredible result for the Battery and its no small thing for Charleston to dent the Dynamo Reserves' perfect record.  Now sitting firmly in second place in the standings, the Battery are well positioned to reset the bar in the USL Pro table.  The boys fly out of Houston this morning for Portland and the Timber's U-23's in their Tuesday night Open Cup tangle.  Thanks to the efforts of CHSSoccer.net, the Timbers have agreed to stream the match from JELD-WEN field.  With such a short turnaround and a good deal of travel time, the game will ask some serious questions about Charleston's depth and Cup credentials.  But if you ask me, I'm confident its another test we'll pass with flying colours!!

Oh and if you missed the Sunday morning match, the fine folks in Houston have already uploaded the full stream to YouTube!


(photo credit: Dynamo facebook)

Mixed Results in the Southern Derby

While a washing machine on the fritz and a host of other complications kept me from the computer this week, I always assume soccer news is better late than never!  With that being said, lets take a look at the past week for the Charleston Battery.

Charleston 4-2 Wilmington

Taking the game by the scruff of the neck, the Battery lit up the scoreboard in only the second minute of play!  Nicki Paterson supplied Dane Kelly and with the Jamaican's sparkling finish, the pair made sure all 3,699 fans were on their feet (whether they'd found their seat or not!).  Ten minutes later, Paterson notched a goal of his own, scoring his third in as many games, with an unstoppable missile.  Charleston continued the one-way traffic, netting another in the 21st minute.  This time it was Zach Prince who pounced on a loose ball and curled a shot just inside the far post netting.  Unsatisfied with three, the Battery would score again on the half hour, as John Wilson solidified his role as on-field legend.  Receiving a precision pass from Quinton Griffith, Wilson rifled a shot with his swinger and found the mark from a distance of about 30 yards.  There's scarcely been a more productive spell for the Charleston Battery, but it would prove to be only part of the story.  

It was truly a tale of two halves, and the Hammerheads took the pitch with something to prove.  A renewed Wilmington side was led by Paul Nicholson who scored twice in six minutes in the 53rd and 59th.  Sniffing an epic comeback, the visitors pressed harder than ever and an already physical contest would soon go progress to ejections.  Charleston's Cody Ellison was shown red for his role in a scuffle in the 69th minute and Wilmington's centre back Gareth Evans was dismissed only three minutes later. The discipline certainly deflated the tension a bit, but would not prevent the Hammerheads from forcing a good save from Odisnel Cooper and rattling the crossbar before it was all over.  

Charleston's impressive offensive showcase in the first half was followed by an equally solid defense performance in the second.  Given their recent form, most would be impressed by the fight in the fatigued Hammerheads squad and I'd say it was one of their best outings this season.  Continuing to climb in the USL Pro table, the Battery also bagged their first points in the 2013 edition of the Southern Derby.

Charlotte 1-0 Charleston 

With a rare Tuesday fixture, the boys traveled north to lock horns with long-time rivals the Charlotte Eagles in the second installment of the Southern Derby saga.  The in-form Eagles are flying high this season as they stand alone with Richmond as the only undefeated teams in USL Pro.  And with only four goals allowed (1st in the league) Mark Steffen's defense surely means business.  

While it may not have been described as beautiful, the match featured some hard-nosed, quality play from both sides.  Chances on goal were certainly few, but Charlotte had the first opportunity, firing high in a corner kick scramble ten minutes on.  The Battery responded with a fine volley off a Charlotte clearance in the 18th minute.  Emmanuel Adjety placed the ball well, but his shot was found firmly lodged in the side netting.  It wasn't long before the game evolved into a war of attrition, as both teams locked into defensive formations.  The breakthrough would come in the 65th minute when Charleston surrendered a free-kick just outside the penalty area.  Eagle's defender Shaun Francis took the kick, skirted the wall, and beat Cooper to put Charlotte in front.  The Battery countered immediately with offensive substitutions and chased the game for the rest of the match.  In the final ten minutes, Charleston managed a few good scoring chances but were unable to make them count.  

The loss in Charlotte is certainly a frustrating one, but should not be a great discouragement.  The Battery played well but were punished for a momentary defensive lapse.  Perhaps worse than the result was the injury to Amadou Sanyang early in the first half.  Having already suffered a concussion in preseason, taking the hard knock on Tuesday was undoubtedly the last thing he needed.  

The Battery look forward to another busy week traveling to face the Houston Dynamo Reserves in inter-league play at BBVA Compass Stadium Sunday morning.  The Pride of the Lowcountry will then fly out of Houston and head for Portland, Oregon to take on the Timber's U-23's in the Open Cup Tuesday night.  Its a lot to ask of any team, but we have high hopes and I don't expect those hopes will be disappointed in either affair.  Here we go boys!!

Up the Battery!!!

Its Finally Here! Open Cup Kickoff!!

(photo credit: TheCup.US facebook)

One hundred years of US Soccer have led to this...the Centennial edition of the the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.  Without a doubt, the nation's longest standing athletic tournament, the Open Cup is one of the purest, most exciting competitions you'll find anywhere in the wide world of sports.  Prone to historic upsets and Cinderella stories, I've always found myself cheering for the little guys, even if they're up against a team I would normally root for.

The Charleston Battery are no strangers to success in the Cup, and have made quite a name for themselves as giant-killers, in their own right.  In 1999, the Battery topped DC United 4-3 in an extra-time thriller.  Two years later, the Pride of the Lowcountry drubbed the New York MetroStars 4-1 at Blackbaud Stadium.  Charleston are one of the only lower division sides to ever make an appearance in the final stage of the tournament, falling 2-1 in heartbreaking fashion to DC United in 2008.  Perhaps my favorite Battery Open Cup match was the 3-1 rout of Chivas USA in Charleston...Not only did Charleston net three fantastic goals, the goats were so upset at their own manhandling that by the end of game they started a fight and several of their players were ejected with only seconds to play.

The powers that be have made it clear that another successful Open Cup run is a priority for the Charleston Battery this year, and with a huge bundle of cash and Champion's League spot up for grabs, why not??  Unfortunately, as its slated up, May is one of Charleston's busiest months in terms of fixture congestion, but it will interesting to see how the pieces come together when the Battery enter the fray in the second round.  For an in-depth analysis of how Charleston enters the draw, check out CHSSoccer.net.

But first things first.  Technically, the dance has already begun.  Two play-in matches took place Tuesday night to determine the final field in the first round.  In typical Open Cup style, even these preliminary matches were high scoring nail-biters.  FC Hasental (NPSL, and yes their crest bears a rabbit) downed the Fresno Fuego Future with four straight goals as the match finished 5-3.  Interestingly enough, the other match finished 5-3 on PK's, as the Georgia Revolution (also NPSL) squeaked by the Colorado Rovers after extra time.  If you haven't already seen it, here's a look at the first round of play:

FIRST ROUND SCHEDULE

May 14	Mass Premier Soccer (USASA) at GPS Portland Phoenix (PDL)	8 p.m. ET	Memorial Field, Deering High School; Portland, Maine
May 14	Icon FC (USASA) at Brooklyn Italians (NPSL)	8 p.m. ET	Aviator Sports Complex; Brooklyn, N.Y.
May 14	New York Red Bulls U23s (NPSL) at Ocean City Nor'easters (PDL)	7:30 p.m. ET	Carey Stadium; Ocean City, N.J.
May 14	FC Lehigh Valley United Sonic (NPSL) at Reading United AC (PDL)	7 p.m. ET	Don Thomas Stadium; Reading, Pa.
May 14	Ocala Stampede (PDL) at Red Force (USASA)	7:30 p.m. ET	Florida International Soccer Stadium; Miami, Fla.
May 14	VSI Tampa Bay FC (USL PRO) at Orlando City U-23s (PDL)	7 p.m. ET	Seminole Soccer Complex; Sanford, Fla.
May 14	Chattanooga FC (NPSL) at Carolina Dynamo (PDL)	7 p.m. ET	Macpherson Stadium; Greensboro, N.C.
May 14	Dearborn Stars (USASA) at Michigan Bucks (PDL)	7:30 p.m. ET	Ultimate Soccer Arenas; Pontiac, Mich.
May 14	RWB Adria (USASA) at Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL PRO)	7 p.m. ET	Highmark Stadium; Pittsburgh, Pa.
May 14	River City Rovers (PDL) at Dayton Dutch Lions (USL PRO)	7 p.m. ET	Beavercreek High School; Beavercreek, Ohio
May 15	Madison 56ers (NPSL) at Des Moines Menace (PDL)	7:30 p.m. CT	Valley Stadium; West Des Moines, Iowa
May 14	NTX Rayados (USASA) at Austin Aztex (PDL)	7:30 p.m. CT	House Park; Austin, Texas
May 14	Phoenix FC (USL Pro) at FC Tucson (PDL)	7:30 p.m. Arizona Time	Kino Sports Complex Grandstand; Tucson, Ariz.
May 14	Sacramento Gold (NPSL) vs. Portland Timbers U23s (PDL)	7:30 p.m. PT	JELD-WEN Field; Portland, Ore.
May 14	Doxa Italia (USASA) at Sounders FC U23s (PDL)	7 p.m. PT	Sunset Chevrolet Stadium; Sumner, Wash.
May 14	PSA Elite (USASA) at Laredo Heat SC (PDL)	8:15 p.m. CT	Texas A&M International Soccer Complex; Laredo, Texas
May 14	Real Colorado Foxes (PDL) at Georgia Revolution (NPSL)	7 p.m. ET	RYSA Soccerplex; Conyers, Ga.
May 14	FC Hasental (NPSL) at Ventura County Fusion (PDL)	7 p.m. PT	Ventura College; Ventura, Calif.

There are a handfull of oddballs from smaller conferences and associations and its always nice to have those wildcard darkhorse teams to spice things up.  You'll also notice there are several representatives from the ever-expanding grassroots league, the National Premier Soccer League.  Of course there are several PDL clubs in the mix and even a few USL Pro squads in the first round.  Here are the teams to keep your eye on:

Ocean City Nor'easters: Ever the underdog, these boys understand what the tourney is all about.  In a previous USOC tangle with DC United, their fans managed to intimidate the screaming eagles and only just fell short of a glorious upset.  

Reading United AC:  The Battery hosted this side last year and the PA squad can be tough competition.  Reading's alumni have really begun to go places...we're talking MLS and beyond.

Chattanooga FC:  These boys are known for quality football and their supporters, the Chattahooligans are largely responsible for inciting a football culture revolution in Middle Tennessee.  Nos vemos, El Conductor!!

Michigan Bucks:  Drawing on a wealth of college talent, the Bucks have won the PDL title and had an excellent run in the Cup last year.  Don't be surprised if they knock off a few big names this go around.  

I love this competition and what it means for the Beautiful Game in America.  I'm practically beside myself with anticipation!  Let it begin!  Let it begin!!

Who will be the next to lift the Cup??  I can't wait to find out!

Sounders Make History in CCL

Been following the CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinals??  You should be.  The Seattle Sounders sent shock waves through the North American soccer world Tuesday night by upsetting the Tigres and becoming the first MLS side to knock out a Mexican opponent in CCL competition.  Despite going down a goal, the Sounder's second half surge, complete with a trio of majestic goals, lifted the West Coast warriors to a 3-2 aggregate win over the Tigres.

Relive the glory at CenturyLink Field here:



In the other quarterfinal fixtures, Monterrey mastered Guatemalan side Xelaju (4-2 aggr.) and Santos Laguna dropped the Dynamo like a bad habit (3-0; 3-1 aggr.).  The LA Galaxy eased past Herediano 4-1 at the Home Depot Center, advancing with a landslide victory.

The semifinals will feature two Liga MX vs. MLS showdowns, with LA forcing a grudge match with two-time defending champions Monterrey.  The Sounders have their own axe to grind; the last time they faced Santos, they were chewed up and spit out in a 6-1 thrashing in Torreon.

Mouthwatering stuff to be sure...

Kickoff!!

The USL Pro Regular season is officially underway!  The LA Blues kicked things off by dispatching the expansion side Phoenix FC 2-0 Saturday night.  The revamped Blues, now under the leadership of Premier League legend Joey Barton, looked sharp, finding the net in each half to secure three points.  The visiting Wolves struggled to build any momentum and with a player sent off just before the break, their hopes of a comeback all but vanished.  Its a fine start for LA, having never won their home opener.  The Wolves will look to rebound next Saturday when they play host to the league's other expansion team, VSI Tampa Bay in the weekend's only USL Pro fixture.

Around the League

The biggest news today is the Toronto FC press release announcing they have officially signed Ryan Richter of the Charleston Battery.  The versatile footballer played a vital role in Charleston's 2012 Championship run, providing a constant offensive threat while actively winning challenges in the midfield as well.  Richter was originally drafted by the Philadelphia Union and went on to spend time with the Harrisburg City Islanders.  He came to Charleston in the spring of 2012 and after the Battery's title winning season, narrowly missed a roster spot with DC United in preseason.  The transfer should be a good match for the Reds and although he will be sorely missed in Charleston, we knew it was only a matter of time before he returned to the MLS stage.  

Charleston have resigned the goalkeeping talents of Kevin Klasila who missed the majority of the 2012 season with an injury.  After several strong preseason performances, Klasila looks ready to make up for lost time and take his place in the first team.  

The Battery have also officially signed midfielder Jarad van Schaik.  The midfielder joins the Battery following a two year stint with the Puerto Rico Islanders.  Van Schaik will bring even more depth to an already experienced Charleston midfield.  

VSI Tampa Bay have acquired JT Noone in preparation for their inaugural USL Pro season.  Noone enjoyed a successful spell with the Ocean City Barons of the PDL before signing professionally with the Harrisburg City Islanders.  Bouncing back and forth from Harrisburg to the Philadelphia Union,  the transfer comes on the heels of Noone's indoor championship with MISL's Baltimore Blast.  

And finally, the Union have announced that three players will join the Harrisburg City Islanders on loan, as part of the team's MLS-USL affiliation.  Forward Cristhian Hernandez and midfielders Greg Jordan and Jimmy McLaughlin will join the Islanders for their 2013 campaign while Philadelphia reserves the right to recall them any time during the loan period.  

Enjoy your Monday and as always, thanks for reading The Beautiful Game!

Battery Show Fight in CCC Goalfest

Braving the bitter cold, Battery fans were treated to a ten goal double feature exhibition Saturday night at Blackbaud Stadium in the opening round of the Carolina Challenge Cup.  And although Charleston fell 3-2 to the Vancouver Whitecaps, the boys have plenty to be proud of as the home played with spirit and determination against their MLS foes.

Vancouver opened the scoring early led Kekutah Manneh.  The rookie might have had a hat-trick, but his first attempt on goal in the second minute was adjudged offside.  Not to be denied, Manneh secured the first goal only two minutes later.  The Whitecaps made a strong showing offensively, belying the fact the game was a preseason friendly.  In the opening stages, Charleston were disorganized at the back and were it not for the reflexes of Kevin Klasila, the carnage could have been greater.  Manneh would score again in the 27th minute, burning down the left flank and searing the net with another well placed shot.  Regaining some composure, Charleston mounted an attack just before the break, but Jose Cuevas' shot slumped just wide of the far post.  

At the restart the 'Caps continued pouring it on and in the 50th minute Daigo Kobayashi volleyed home a strike that seemed taken from one of Ronaldinho's Nike videos.  I honestly think it was one of the most impressive goals I've seen at Blackbaud.  Even with the three goal deficit, the Battery were able to regroup and finish the match with admirable form.   Returning veteran Nicki Paterson rallied the troops and the charge, producing a goal in the 71st minute.  The Scotsman picked out the surging Dane Kelly who advanced to the final third.  Kelly chipped the ball to trialist Gibson Bardley who shrugged the defense and threaded it back to Patterson.  It was clinical finishing as Patterson's one-touch shot burried the ball into the roof of the net.  Charleston nearly doubled their tally six minutes later but was thwarted with a fine save from Vancouver's Brad Knighton.  However, Dane Kelly continued to make his mark on the match, ripping another Battery goal ten minutes from time.  Shouldering through the backline, the Jamaican expertly placed a magnificent goal.  Unfortunately, the whistle came at the wrong time for the boys as Charleston were unable to recover from Vancouver's early lead.  

The Battery have been training for just over a week, and considering the fact that the MLS regular season kick off is just around the corner, I think this is a fine result for Charleston.  Now there's plenty of room for improvement, especially concerning defensive solidarity, but that will come naturally as chemistry grows and the final roster is ironed out.  

Preseason Continues

With only days before the Carolina Challenge Cup, training camp is in full swing for the Charleston Battery.  Here's an inside look as the defending USL Pro Champs dust off the cobwebs and get set to play host to some talent rich MLS squads:WCIV-TV | ABC News 4 - Charleston News, Sports, Weather

Remember, Charleston will face the Vancouver Whitecaps in the second match on Saturday.  The 'Caps are captained by EPL legend Jay Demerit and Vancouver just recently signed former Battery striker Tom "Wildman" Heinemann.  And since Charleston has been paired with the Houston Dynamo for a few matches this season, it will be good have a look at our MLS competition.

In the meantime, have you been following the Disney Pro Soccer Classic??

So far, its been an excellent showcase of up-and-coming talent, with lively preseason matches between MLS, USL, and NASL teams.  All the games are being streamed live on MLSsoccer.com.

An incredibly sharp Columbus Crew steamrolled the Philadelphia Union 4-0 earlier this afternoon.  Philly fielded several USL vets called up from Harrisburg, but the Union were no match for the Finlay & Finley show as Dominic Oduro played his part in dismantling the opposition as well.

Can't catch the games live?  No problem, highlights and full replays of every match are right here.

Also, the Desert Diamond Cup kicks off tonight as the Seattle Sounders take on the New England Revs.  Look for former Arsenal back Mikael Silvestre to feature for Seattle since the Premier League vet was only just snatched up from the Portland Timbers training camp.

Not enough for your football fix?  I heard some tidbit about an epic Champions League match or something like that...but if that won't do ya, then you'll just have to wait til Saturday!

(And if for some reason you can't make it to the 'Baud, those games will be streamed live on UNATION!!)

Cheers!

MLS Preseason Update

The Desert Friendlies

The Desert Friendlies conclude today as the PDL's FC Tucson square off with the Portland Timbers.  The DF's have been lively so far as several MLS contenders continue to fine-tune their squads.  Portland seem to be a step ahead of the competition, and it looks as though former EPL defensive back Mikael Silvestre has earned a spot in the Timbers Army.  In one of the early fixtures, FC Tucson gave Open Cup Champions Sporting KC a good run for their money, while giving the home fans something to cheer about as well.  With some outstanding in-goal heroics, Tucson are off to a bright start in 2013.  Enjoy the highlights from that encounter:

Cooper trains with FCD in Cancun

Cooper Returns to FC Dallas
In a surprising move this week, the New York Red Bulls traded striker Kenny Cooper to FC Dallas for allocation money and a draft selection.  The former Hoops man had an outstanding season with New York scoring 18 goals and recording several assists. 
 A Dallas native, Cooper began his professional career with FCD.  Having played in Europe with 1860 Munich and Plymouth Argyle, the forward returned to the States joining the Portland Timbers in their inaugural MLS season.  After signing with the Red Bulls, Cooper enjoyed his most productive run since leaving Texas.  No doubt, the locals will be happy about his homecoming, and with the combination of recently acquired Eric Hassli, the two could quickly form the most lethal strike force in the league.

(photo credit: FC Tucson facebook, FCD facebook)

The Major League Connection

While the ink has only just dried on the groundbreaking MLS/USL partnership agreement, the relationship between the two leagues is anything but a new one.  In fact, most casual fans might dismiss the assertion that the United Soccer League has been instrumental in shaping the dynamic, successful, ever expanding organization we now know as MLS.

Take a look at the teams at the top of the American soccer pyramid.  Granted, there are several MLS teams who are football pioneers in their own right, but the Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers, Vancouver Whitecaps, and Montreal Impact were all once among the most competitive sides in the USL.

Now look at the players that make up the mosaic of Major League talent.  You've got a handful of international stars (either waxing or waning), a good crop of kids drafted from their college teams, and a gracious harvest of persistent professionals who've made the breakthrough to the top tier of the national system.

Need examples?  Well, thanks for asking!  Here ya go:

Start with the Seattle Sounders.  From Charleston alone they've picked up Osvaldo Alonso, whose become their midfield maestro and team captain.  They also nabbed Lamar Neagle who has since been traded to the Montreal Impact.  Alex Caskey earned his MLS contract last year and features regularly with the boys in Rave Green.

The Battery's "Wildman", Tom Heinemann, signed first with the Columbus Crew in 2011 following Charleston's incredible Championship season.  Flourishing as an impact player, Tom was sidelined by injury in his second year.  But the future looks brighter still since the forward just completed a transfer to the Vancouver Whitecaps.  During his loan from NY Red Bulls to the Wilmington Hammerheads, last season Cory Hertzog won a spot on the USL All-league team and was easily one of the most entertaining players in USL.  Hertzog also recently put pen to paper with the 'Caps.

In Portland, the Timbers can thank the likes of the LA Blues for the striking starlet Bright Dike.  Dike's stint in LA paved the way for his acclimation to playing on an even larger stage.  Portland's defensive rookie Andrew Jean-Baptiste also spent time with the Blues last summer.

Especially considering the potential of the new MLS/USL partnership, this is really just the beginning.  The Charleston Battery has four more players training/on trial with MLS clubs and there's a good chance several of them may make the step up.  The Battery's offensive spark and set-piece hero Nicki Patterson is in camp with the New York Red Bulls, having impressed the big boys in their Open Cup outing in the Lowcountry.  Jose Cuevas, USL rookie of the year, is being looked at by the Seattle Sounders and is joined by teammate Cody Ellison.  Midfielder Ryan Richter, who enjoyed an incredible run of form throughout last year's championship season, is on trial with D.C. United and things look quite promising for him in the Capital.

USL Pro will soon be wrapping up their annual player combine, which promises to pump even more fresh talent into the system and with so many PDL franchises opening up across the States (not to mention the NPSL) the sport in America is growing in leaps and bounds.  Now that the nation's two premier leagues have joined forces, the sky is the limit!



(photo credit: MLS facebook page)

"The New Deal" - Unwrapping the MLS/USL Affiliation Agreement

After months of speculation, Wednesday's announcement made the Major League Soccer & USL Pro partnership official.  MLS & USL Pro have entered into a long-term commitment that will restructure the the current MLS Reserve League.  The agreement also looks toward establishing a USL affiliate for each MLS franchise.  In addition to strengthening player development and a unified league pyramid, MLS could potentially explore opportunities to expand the league by "promoting" USL franchises.

But before we get ahead of ourselves, lets take a moment to unpack this monumental development.  While both leagues would describe the partnership as a work in progress, the framework for the 2013 season is in already in place.  (No Quarter also has an excellent breakdown of the new agreement here)  MLS owners have settled on three options for MLS teams and the lower division league:

<> Affiliation- MLS sides would name an official USL partner that would in-effect serve as their development team.  The deal would include at least four signings loaned to the USL side, with the strong implication that the USL has a weighty say in the process.  

<> Creation- MLS teams could choose to field their own stand-alone USL Pro team.  This choice may be the most beneficial in terms of bolstering the USL Pro league, but it would also prove the most expensive and technically challenging.  

<> Integration- MLS franchises may continue on their current track in the Reserve League, but would have a USL "partner" whom they face a few times throughout the RL season.  

So who's going where??  

Four MLS teams have already announced a USL affiliation:

D.C. United - Richmond Kickers

Philadelphia Union - Harrisburg City Islanders

New England Revolution - Rochester Rhinos

Sporting Kansas City - Orlando City Lions

Since no MLS side has opted to field an independent USL Pro side as of yet, that leaves integration for the remaining teams, with the exception being Chivas USA, who chose to forgo the Reserve League all together.  Initially, there will be two interleague fixtures for each USL side (home & away; except Antigua).  The results will count and be figured in to Reserve League/USL Pro standings, respectively.  The integration assignments for 2013 MLSRL/USL Pro are as follows:

Los Angels Blues vs. Los Angeles Galaxy

VSI Tampa Bay vs. Portland Timbers

Antigua Barracuda FC vs. FC Dallas & San Jose Earthquakes
Charleston Battery vs. Houston Dynamo
Charlotte Eagles vs. Chicago Fire
Dayton Dutch Lions vs. Columbus Crew
Harrisburg City Islanders vs. Colorado Rapids
Orlando City vs. Seattle Sounders FC
Phoenix FC vs. Real Salt Lake
Pittsburgh Riverhounds vs. Toronto FC
Richmond Kickers vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC
Rochester Rhinos vs. Montreal Impact
Wilmington Hammerheads vs. New York Red Bulls

While such widespread changes could potentially threaten the identity of smaller market USL sides, keep in mind the Charleston Battery has remained at the forefront of the professional soccer scene in the US, not to mention, they are the proud owners of America's first soccer-specific stadium.  Further, Charleston, Richmond and a few other USL teams have been in continuous operation for almost twice as long as Major League Soccer.  Of course, there will be plenty more changes to come in the next several years, but it looks to be a most promising development for American fans of the beautiful game.  

Probably what excites me the most about the whole shebang is an intensified rivalry between inter-league foes in the US Open Cup!!

So here's to the new partnership and another year filled with fantastic football!!  

"...And We're Back!"

Don't worry! We're back!

As you may have noticed, the creative cannons at The Beautiful Game have fallen silent in recent weeks.  Due to circumstances beyond our control (kinda tricky to blog without internet access), the site has been out of commission for a good month or so.  That being said, we're back in action!!  Now a lot has happened in the past several weeks so we've got some catching up to do!!  Here's what you can look forward to upcoming posts:

The Charleston Battery

While I am unable to provide match recaps for every game missed, I'll certainly hit the highs and lows of the past month and what's ahead for the Black and Yellow.

Arsenal

The Gunners have just finished their preseason run and there are several new faces at Asheburton Grove.  I'll have all the details as well as a preview for the upcoming English Premier League kickoff.

SC Soccer

Look for season recaps from the Palmetto State's two new clubs, Palmetto Bantams FC and the Myrtle Beach Mutiny.

Euro 2012

All the best from this year's European tournament.

London 2012

A glimpse at what transpired in the world of football at the Summer Games.

Major League Soccer

Finally, a rundown of league happenings and the push for the MLS playoffs.

I'm also in the process of retooling our facebook page, more on that in the coming weeks.  Thanks for your patience during our recent absence, and here's to the beautiful game!!!

Open Cup Chaos

Once again, this competition has been turned on its head!  Tuesday was certainly a great night for the underdogs as third round Open Cup action saw several of the nation's premier soccer clubs suffer shock defeats at the hands of their lower division opponents.  In total, eight of the fourteen MLS sides were knocked out of the competition.  And while it may be old news by now, here's a recap of all the Open Cup action from the past week:

Richmond Kickers 1-2 DC United
United squeaked by their in-state rivals with an overtime thriller in Richmond City.  Salihi grabbed the early goal at twenty-four minutes but Nyazamba brought the Kickers level from the penalty spot in first half stoppage time.  United's Saragosa netted the game winning goal deep into extra time to give DC the win.

Harrisburg City Islanders 3-3 New England Revolution (Harrisburg advance 4-3 on PK's)
Without question the wildest game of round three, Harrisburg showed fans of the game what this competition is all about.  All six in extra time; three for the Revs in the first fifteen, followed by an Islanders rapid-fire comeback.  Harrisburg downed New England when it came to penalties, and while its a terrible way to lose...its pretty dang exciting.

San Jose Earthquakes 2-1 Ft. Lauderdale Strikers
A forty-five yard bomb put the Strikers ahead when Mark Anderson caught the Quakes keeper napping just before the break.  But the upset was overturned when San Jose rookie Sam Garza found two goals in seven minutes midway through the second half to help the Quakes move on to the next round.


Charleston Battery 0-3 New York Red Bulls
Despite spirited play from the hosts, the Red Bulls proved to much for Charleston on the evening and progress in the cup. Read the full match report here: The Empire Strikes Back

Sporting Kansas City 3-2 Orlando City
Soony Saad was Sporting's two goal hero in their scrappy win over Orlando City.  As Orlando is prone to do, City made a poor show of things with a revolting foul and sending off twenty minutes from time.
Although the victory was a narrow one, margin matters little in the Cup.


Philadelphia Union 3-0 Rochester Rhinos
Scoring twice, Freddy Adu led Philly in their convincing victory over the Rhinos.  W's have come at a premium this year for the Union and any win is certainly good news.  Outlasting the lightning delay and subsequent monsoon, Philadelphia progress to the next round.

Michigan Bucks 3-2 Chicago Fire
More heartbreak awaited the Fire this year in the Open Cup.  Fielding largely reserves, Chicago met their match in the Michigan Bucks.  The PDL unit took the early lead and then impressively fought back to level a 2-1 game.  Scoring three minutes into overtime, the Bucks made Chicago pay the price for failing to give this competition enough respect.

Columbus Crew 1-2 Dayton Dutch Lions
The Dutch Lions left Crew Stadium with a shock upset after two goals in as many minutes at the end of the match.  An uninspiring game was punctuated only by a Crew PK to take the lead in the sixty-fourth minute.  However, Daniel Holowaty had other ideas when entered the match for Dayton with twelve minutes to play.  Assisting a pair of Dayton goals after just taking the pitch, Holowaty led the Lions to the next level.

Tampa Bay Rowdies 1-3 Colorado Rapids
While the scoreline certainly flatters Colorado, the Rapids handled a lively bunch of Rowdies in Tampa Bay.  Finding the net from a penalty in the fifteenth, the visitors took control early and didn't let up.  Wells Thompson led the charge, spurring both first half Rapid's goals.  The Rowdies showed some grit striking the frame of the goal several times, but Colorado's second half strike put the game to bed.  Despite scoring a consolation goal in stoppage time, it was 'lights out' for Tampa Bay.

San Antonio Scorpions 1-0 Houston Dynamo
In another gritty and surprising affair, San Antonio dumbfounded the Dynamo.  Scoring off the crossbar from a penalty, the Scorpions took the lead early in the second and then poured on the pressure.  Houston had virtually no response and were deservingly eliminated from the competition.

FC Dallas 0-2 Charlotte Eagles
The Eagles pulled off an impressive upset in the Lone Star State in a costly match for the Hoops.  FCD lost several key players to injury, while Charlotte thrived, scoring at the end of both halves.

Ventura County Fusion 0-1 Chivas USA
The Chivas, a team who know what it means to be lambasted and laughed out of the tournament, fielded a strong team against the Fusion.  They were rewarded for their investment.  The Goats took an early goal and although County pressed for the remainder of the match, they were unable to find a breakthrough.

Carolina Railhawks 2-1 LA Galaxy
A vibrant Railhawks side escorted the reigning MLS champs to a new low in Open Cup defeat.  Noonan put the Galaxy ahead in the first, but Carolina netted two in the last fifteen minutes as the team most likely to earn the next MLS expansion spot redefined shame for the visiting LA squad.

Real Salt Lake 1-3 Minnesota Stars
The intrepid Stars milked RSL for all they were worth in a landslide victory that was never even close.  Claiming their Major League scalp, Minnesota advance while Salt Lake are left wondering "What just happened?"

Seattle Sounders 5-1 Atlanta Silverbacks
Seattle decimated the Apes in a rout led by Osvaldo Alonso and Alex Caskey.  There was little to separate the two in the first half, but the break was bookended by two Sounder's goals.  Alonso provided the spark and Caskey lent his speed as the former Charleston midfielder scored his first goal in a Sounders uniform.


Portland Timbers 0-1 Cal FC
Finally, a historic win by amateur underdogs Cal FC at JELD-WEN capped an already exciting third round.  Despite a whopping forty-three chances on goal, including a Kris Boyd PK, the Timbers failed to make a single one count.  Cal found their goal five minutes into overtime and became the first amateur team to score (much less defeat) Major League Soccer opposition.

Here's the moral of this third round story: Respect the Cup.

So many of the small fry's and amateur clubs are honored to even be included in this competition...so naturally they're gonna fight like crazy to earn the right result.  Its insulting when the big money MLS teams send out they're reserve squads.  Teams like New York and Chivas came to play and won their games.  Teams like LA, Houston, Colombus, and Chicago did not...and they were simply embarrassed.

So cheers to lower division football and the growth of the beautiful game in throughout the States!!

(Also, if you're looking for a bit more detailed recaps, click here.)