WASHINGTON, DC (Aug 6, 2008) USSoccerPlayers -- The biggest attendance draw on this year's MLS calendar happens tonight, with nothing on the line.
New York - Barcelona
7pm - ESPN2
Though it reads like a match-up from some future international league, it's actually yet another friendly. We all know how the greater NYC crowd likes to fill Giants Stadium for games that don't count, and tonight should be no exception.
Barcelona didn't sell out the joint in Chicago against Chivas on Sunday, but they've done the expected appearances in Manhattan and are set to rekindle their relationship with the big crowd and the big stage. How lucky we are.
Hey, at least the host team gets to actually play. Though how much of a game we'll get from RBNY before they make with the substitutes and the excuses is an open question.
New Bull
Day of game and RBNY makes another signing. This time it's Venezuelan international defender Gabriel Cichero joining Juan Carlos Osorio's new model army.
“We’re excited to bring Gabriel on board as we head into the final stretch of the season,” said RBNY sporting director Jeff Agoos. “Gabriel has proven himself in a number of leagues that he is a very complete defender and we are confident that he will make an immediate impact.”
The Return Of Noonan
At least on paper, Patt Noonan passed through Revs-land before winning his way West towards Columbus. Yes, this was the same move MLS shot down a few weeks ago when Columbus was willing to pay more for Noonan's services than the League would stomach.
Here's the delayed arrival version, with the expected quotes from our friends in C-Bus.
“I think we’re obviously adding a quality player who brings another dimension and further options to our attack as we enter the final third of the season and playoff push,” said Columbus coach Sigi Schmid. “He has had a lot of success in this league and we look forward to having him for many good years in Columbus.”
And from the man himself: “I am excited at the opportunity to return to MLS and especially to join the Columbus Crew. I think it will be a great fit and I look forward to helping a team that is in a great spot to make a run for an MLS title.”
I'm Kerri Strug
For those of you not up on your random John Larroquette Show references, you're why it got canceled. Join the Revolution in their press release giddiness that Ms. Strug will be paying them and their fans a visit this Saturday to "take part in the pregame coin flip and present a cheer from the Boys & Girls Club of Middlesex County at halftime."
