WASHINGTON, DC (July 10, 2008) USSoccerPlayers -- MLS diehards in other time zones try to justify a late start to their Friday while we get the long awaited All-Star Potentially Starting XI announcement.
Big Game LA
For those of us on the East Coast willing to risk the late shift, the inner-stadium throw down that is Chivas USA - LA is live tonight on ESPN2 at 11pm. A winner takes first in the Western Conference, with the Galaxy a lot closer to full strength than Chivas USA. Prelude to running the injury report? Of course.
CHIVAS USA - OUT: FW Alecko Eskandarian (sports hernia surgery); FW Maykel Galindo (sports hernia surgery); DF Alex Zotinca (R knee ACL surgery); DOUBTFUL: MF Raphael Wicky (R calf strain); Jorge Flores (R ankle sprain); QUESTIONABLE: DF Lawson Vaughn (L ankle tendonitis)
Is it worth mentioning that the disparity beween East and West continues, with LA and Chivas USA's 21 points only good for 5th and 6th on differential back East?
Not So Big Game KC
The ESPN2 game isn't tonight's only MLS action. Kansas City hosts Red Bull NY at 8pm, with... well... the relative indignity of not being the worst team in the Eastern Conference on the line. New York is currently 6th, with the Wizards three points and -2 goals back in last place. New York has an extra game played on every team lower than third, so their 6th is somewhat deceptive.
Claudio Reyna is out, but Juan Pablo Angel is expected to play as RBNY coach Juan Carlos Osorio continues his countdown to the opening of the transfer window.
Your Vote Counts... Sort Of
An interesting note from this morning's All-Star First XI announcement. The first XI vote doesn't actually mean those players start. From the release:
First XI is not necessarily the starting lineup. Nicol will select the starters based on player availability and tactical considerations. If First XI selections are unavailable due to injury, international duty or other commitments, Nicol will select alternates for the game day roster, but all First XI players are All-Stars.
Yes, because we must maintain the tactical and player selection integrity... of the All-Star Game? Honestly.
Lombardo Out At FC
Toronto FC waived Canada U-20 forward Andrea Lombardo. He has been playing for FC's reserves this season.
