Midfield Throw-ins

1. As you know, I'm a huge supporter of MLS fan clubs (with a special affinity for Chicago's Section 8).  Here's a great article from ESPN on the rise of the MLS fan clubs.  I've also updated the fan club links on the main page.
2. Tell me if this sounds familiar, MLS based US defensive midfielder loses head, acts out, gets sent off and puts team in bad position.  If you are a Real Salt Lake fan, that sounds very familiar as Kyle Beckerman flushed any hope of a supporters shield down the toilet getting sent off in the 10th minute of Wednesday's game against Chicago.  If Kyle's head can't handle (or maybe it handled it too much) Daniel Paladini, how is he going to be able to handle the antics of any Central America player?  I have a feeling we may find out in the next year and will not like the results.
3. Frank Klopas certainly didn't dream that he would have a hard time selecting a team for the Open Cup final after the triumph over Richmond.  Sure he knew he'd be facing three matches in seven days, but he surely couldn't have guessed he'd have his team in position to not only make the playoffs, but still have a shot at the division crown.  Every game is a must win now.    I think he has Interm-Manager of the Year on lockdown.
4. Sure seems to be a number of slight, nagging injuries that pop up when Henry and Becks have to get on planes these days.  If fans outside of NY and LA are showing up to see Henry and Becks, then that ticket purchase is a gamble these days isn't it?
5. Since Open Cup matches go to the highest bidder and attendances have been good, you think they could pony up a bit more for the finalists.  $50K for the runner-up, ouch!  And only twice that for the winner.  Sell the naming rights and pump some cash into this grand old tournament.