The Beautiful Game: April 2011

4.11.2011

Post RSL @ New England

Great match. Damn are we deep... RSL went into New England, on that crappy plastic pitch, and got the full three points. They did this, most surprisingly, with a bunch of reserves. Of the 11 starters, only 2 were regular starters. Will Johnson wore the captains armband and Robbie Russell played at right back as we don't have much depth in our outside back position. Outside those two, though, the rest of the team was guys who usually make the bench or, even better, don't even make the 18 for most games. Between the pipes was backup Kyle Reynish. In front of him was two very green center backs in Chris Schuler and Rawshawn McKenzie. On the outside left was "reserve" Tony Beltran, on the right was regular starter Robbie Russell. In the middle, we saw the future of RSL. Jean the Machine was at holding mid and Collen Warner was at attacking mid. The two outside mids were "reserve" Ned Grabavoy (the best role player in the league) and the little energizer bunny, Will Johnson. Up top was where the game was most exciting, though, as RSL put on display Paulo Junior and Arturo Alvarez. Both were really good on the night, the little Brazilian being the better of the two. First Half Thoughts: The game was very level for the first 15 to 20 minutes. RSL was showing some very good passing and possession. new England, on the other hand, was looking to counter and be physical. It was obvious which tactic was more attractive, but neither were killing the other too much early. Around the 20th minute, though, this all changed. RSL really got into the flow and New England simply couldn't keep pace. Paulo Junior and Alvarez were giving the backs for the Revs nightmares and the midfield for RSL was making NE's look like practice dummies. The first goal came off a corner, but that corner was achieved after a superb shot by Ned Grabavoy that was just inches off, hitting the post and getting knocked out by the defense. Schuler showed his size and headed home an inch perfect cross from Warner. The rest of the half was mostly RSL with some NE attacks and long range efforts thrown in. Second Half Thoughts: As to be expected, NE came out of halftime looking to level things up. This played right into RSL hand's, though. As the defensive line pushed higher for NE, spaces began to open up. Warner found Paulo Junior into space and Paulo slotted in home on the near post. NE had the better of the attack for the first 5 minutes, but RSL proved just how lethal they can be if given the time to build an attack. From there, the match got very chippy. getting worked by a bunch of reserves wasn't going over well with the NE players and it showed in their body language. The tipping point came around the 55th minute. Will Johnson was put into space on a through ball. In a foot race with Alston, the outside right back for NE, the two sprinted for the ball. Alston, though, suddenly decided he wasn't much interested in the ball and full on body checked Will into the side boards. Replays showed Alston taking his eyes off the ball and sizing up Will before the check. It should have been red. If it had been, I doubt the rest of the match would have gotten as out of hand as it did. instead, Will was left on the sideline, on concrete no less, trying to regroup while Alston walked away with just a yellow. From there, it was chippy. RSL wanted to get back at NE as this is a very tight-knit group. There were many chances, but RSL never sunk to the level of full on laying a guy out. A few pushes here and there and dragging a leg in a tackle, sure, but nothing like what Alston did. Then Kyle Beckerman came into the match. The game suddenly was all RSL. NE couldn't' pass to save their lives. Sharlie Joseph, who I highlighted before the match, was especially fruststrated. For some reason, he got upset with Kyle shrugging him off and took it personally. He got up in the face and gave two jabs to Kyle with his index finger... I couldn't make this stuff up. Sharlie got a red, which honestly was a bit harsh. It should have been a yellow and a VERY stern warning. If that is considered "striking" an opponent, then how does Kyle stay in the game past the 5th minute? New England had now lost their captain and were reeling for direction. Que the idiot with the head gear to fly into a reckless tackle. Phelan, who is a ginger retard, goes into a meaningless tackle with Robbie Russell near midfield. Both studs were up and it was obviously a red. Will Johnson, who was still wearing the armband despite Kyle being on the pitch, was first on the scene; as he should be. The ref did not hesitate to eject Phelan. It was a horrible tackle and not many could argue against the result. What happened afterwards, though, still is confusing to me. Will Johnson probably shouldn't have been so vocal about the ejection. The ref was already going to his back pocket, no need to get too upset. However, he is the captain, and its his responsibility to be the leader of the squad, even if just for this match. The center back for New England, #2 (I won't waste my time looking up the idiots name) took Will's yelling personally and got up into his face. Will showed great maturity and simply put his hands up and walked away. Then the AR, for who knows what reason, decided he needed to get in on the action. He rightly pointed out the center back going at it with Will, but said they both needed to be carded. Why? I have no idea. Regardless, Johnson was shown his second yellow (his first was for a tackle in the box that was very obviously a revenge tackle) and ejected. It was pure insanity. The ref had totally lost control in a matter of seconds. In the end, though, RSL prevailed. New England, even with their thuggish play, couldn't come close to what RSL put on display. A bunch of reserve players just worked their first time on their own field. New England, you should be ashamed of yourself. Player Ratings: Kyle Reynish: B+ - Didnt have to do much, but was big when he needed to be Robbie Russell: B+ - Solid night from Russell. Great passing and vision to cross the ball. Rawshawn McKenzie: A- - Made a couple big tackles that really kept New England from making a run. Chris Schuler: A - "The adverb" was tremendous. Beautiful header on the first goal and great work in the back all game with McKenzie. Tony Beltran: A- - Tony was key to getting our attack going. The first goal was built down his wing and he was heavily involved. Jean Alexandre: B+ - The Jean Machine played like I thought he would. Physical yet smooth. He earned a yellow, no doubt, and he'll need to work on that if he wants to be a regular. Still a good game, though. Will Johnson: B+ - Outside the dumb first yellow, he had a good night. Always can count on Will to work his butt off. Ned Grabavoy: A- - Ned was really good in this start. He was robbed of a goal. He was still constantly in the attack, though. Kyle Beckerman: A - He came on and the game instantly was won. New England couldn't string two passes together once Kyle stepped on the pitch. Luis Gil: B - He wasn't on for a very long time, so its hard to give him a grade. Still wasn't bad for getting his legs under him in the league. Arturo Alvarez: B+ - If the guy had a right foot he would be one of the best players in the league. As is, even with one foot, he is pretty damn talented. He was really unlucky not to get a goal. I believe it will come this month, though. Paulo Junior: A - This kid is something else. If we can get him to stay here longer than 3 years (if his play continues like this) it will be a miracle. His work rate and skill is just beautiful to watch. Love that we have a true Brazilian on the squad. Man of the Match: Collen Warner - Collen had two assists on the night and really had an amazing night. Though he may not get as noticed as a guy like Javi or Andy, he is still a great talent. How we kept him in the last expansion draft is beyond me. This guy could be our next Andy Williams, I truly believe that. Wanker of the Match: Kevin Alston - He made the first tackle that really sent this thing into craziness in the second half. if he plays some honest soccer instead of hockey, the game goes much smoother. If he gets sent off, as he should have, the game also likely goes better as RSL wouldn't feel the need for some revenge. RSL hosts the first leg of the RMC this coming Wednesday. It is going to be chippy, physical, and most of all a joy to watch. With almost all the starters rested, I would bet they come flying out of the gate. I'll have a pre-game report coming up for that one tomorrow or Wednesday morning. Cheers, 15 to 32 FORZA REAL ps, pictures have been screwing my posts up so I'm not going to do them anymore. It sucks, I know, but its the only way I can get this thing to post the way I want it to.

4.08.2011

Pre RSL @ New England

After all the excitement that Tuesday brought, it's time to go back to league play...

RSL travels to New England this Saturday to play the Revs. New England has started the year out pretty strong, given their previous two seasons especially, and are looking to continue their unbeaten streak to start the season. Of course, of the 4 games they have played in MLS regular season, though, they have only won 1 game. All of their games have been low scoring as they have only scored 5 times this season. They have 4 goals against them, which shouldn't come as a surprise knowing their record.

From the little I have seen of them, they are a talented team that plays a much more European style. They are physical and like to use speed. If RSL can get these guys chasing, then the game will favor them. However, if RSL gets sucked into a physical match then the game favors New England as we simply don't have size to compare. The match will be, as always with this team, won in the middle of the pitch. If we can possess the ball and move it around quickly, we should be able to find gaps in their backline and exploit them with the speed I assume will be up top.

Starting XI for RSL

- (given the short rest its very hard to know what Kreis will do for this one, especially with the cRapids match next Wednesday)

GK: Kyle Reynish

- I think Nicky needs a night off, especially with this one being on turf. Kyle is very capable and his big game last year was @ Seattle so the turf shouldn't be an issue.

LB: Chris Wingert

- Some veterans still need to be on the pitch in this one, that is just how it goes. Wingert is a staple of the back line. I think the guy will do just fine on short rest.

CB: Nat Borchers

- Same thing as Wingert. Nat will wear the armband in this one, I think.

CB: Chris Schuler

- Schuler had a big game @ Seattle last year, as well. So the turf won't be an issue. Olave won't be in the 18, I think/hope.

RB: Tony Beltran

- With Russell getting the start against Saprissa it only makes sense Tony starts here.

RM: Ned Grabavoy - Ned came on as a late sub in the Saprissa match so he should be fine to start. Johnson needs a little rest, I think, because of traveling with Canada. CDM: Jean Alexandre - The 'Jean Machine' will be out in full force, I think. Kyle could use a night off ahead of the cRapids match. CAM: Andy Williams - We need a true #10 on the pitch and I think Andy is just the guy. He is a joy to watch on turf and tends to really be special @ New England. I doubt he goes the full 90. He will be the first guy subbed off, I bet. LM: Collen Warner - Collen and Andy showed in the Cruz Azul match last year that they have some great chemistry. I think Kreis will tap into that and start Collen in the diamond. FW: Paulo Junior - Even though he stayed a day later in Costa Rica to renew his visa, I think Paulo makes the starting lineup. Espy and Sabo worked their tails off in that Saprissa match. Give them a night off, or at least not start them. FW: Arturo Alvarez - This one could very easily be off, but I think Kreis will use Alvarez in this match as a starter. He played pretty well as a sub in the last matches, so he should be set to get his first start in a RSL kit here at New England.

Key player to watch for New England: Sharlie Joseph I've never really bought into the idea that Joseph is the best holding mid in the league. He is talented, don't get me wrong, but I think Kyle has proven (especially in the past 2 years) that he is better. Joseph still will be the engine of this squad. If RSL is to win, it'll be because they took Joseph out of the game as much as possible. Key Player to watch for RSL: Paulo Junior

The crazy little Brazilian will give New England's defense nightmares. His quick feet is just what European style defenders hate. I think Paulo will have a great night in Boston (area).

Game Prediction: D - RSL 1 - New England 1

I think it will be a level match and that both goals will come in the second half. Both teams played during the week so the fatigue factor might set in. Kreis could really throw some firepower off the bench if he goes with the lineup I have listed above.

- New England goal 65'

- RSL goal (Paulo) 75'

Our first non-win of the season, but it would be pretty acceptable given the circumstances (short rest and turf, again). Here is hoping for better but expecting possibly less...

Cheers,

15 to 32

FORZA REAL

4.06.2011

CCL: Post RSL @ Saprissa

Losing never felt so good...

Thought the final score of the game will say Saprissa were the victors, the feelings were the exact opposite for the teams. RSL prevailed in a rather entertaining (though somewhat sloppy) match down on the carpet in Costa Rica. I haven't been as nervous as I was for this match in quite some time. The closest I can think of was the 2009 MLS Cup Final in Seattle. If I'm this much of a mess in the semis, lord knows how bad it'll be on April 19th (@ Mexico) and, especially, April 27th (@ the RioT). Last night was a testament to the team and mentality that Kreis (and Garth, and Manning, and Checketts, etc.) has built. Playing in one of the most intimidating stadiums in this region, the guys looked fairly calm and composed. It was truly a special night of confirmation about just how good this team can be... even when they lose.

Game Thoughts: First Half RSL did exactly what they needed to do in the first 45. They weathered an initial storm and then, slowly, took over the match. It was never as one-sided as the match at the RioT (few matches on the road ever are, its just how the sport works) but there were times when RSL was showing pure class despite the fact that Saprissa players were laying it all on the line and holding nothing back in their attack. In fact, RSL had arguably the best opportunity for a goal in the first half when Andy did what he always seems to do and find a passing lane nobody else thought possible. His little chipping pass from the top of the 18 to Kyle's feet was just absurd. Kyle's first touch was sloppy but decent enough to allow him to get a shot off. In hindsight, Beckerman had loads of time to settle the ball, possibly with another touch, and slot home the shot. Instead, Kyle did what he really should do in that situation and hammered a shot towards goal. Saprissa's goalie made one of his fine saves and pushed the ball over for another corner. Saprissa did pose a few threats, and even looked as though they could possibly get in behind RSL using diagonal balls. Ironically enough, their infamous plastic pitch ruined a couple of these attacks as the ball skipped too far for an attack.

2nd Half

As should have been expected, Saprissa came flying out of the gate in the second half. A sublime touch and shot from distance found them up 1-0 early on with all the momentum back on their side. It was looking as though this game could really get ugly if RSL couldn't find a way to stop their attack. Que Jason Kreis with a fantastic sub. One of my few complaints about Kreis is that his subbing rotation seems to be fixed before a match and, even then, doesn't make too much sense. In this game, though, his first sub was spot on. Andy is a tremendous midfielder, but it was obvious we weren't going to have possession unless we got down and dirty on the defensive side of the ball. that just simply isn't Williams' cup of tea . Kreis thus put Ned Grabavoy into the match and things instantly began to calm down for RSL. Slowly, the game started to level out and even started to favor RSL a bit. As I discussed prior to the first match, RSL had an obvious size factor on Saprissa and thus should be able to expose them on set pieces. It was all too fitting, then, that RSL leveled on a corner. Javi whipped in a fantastic ball that Borchers found with his head. Some scrabbling defense by Saprissa blocked the initial header. The ball fell, though, to the feet of Jamison Olave who proved that he doesn't only have the ability to score with his head. A lethal half volley nearly took the head off of the Saprissa keeper and not only leveled the match, but sunk the hearts of many of the fans and players. Now Saprissa had to score 3 more times to be victorious. There was no possibility of overtime anymore, either. This game would be decided within regular time. Saprissa then got desperate and made very offensive subs. The game started to favor them a bit, again, as RSL was okay with a lower defensive line than they were playing prior. As the game wore into the 80th+ minute, the feeling of ecstasy slowly started to seem into many RSL fans, including myself. Though, at the same time, the horrific memories of the meltdown in Mexico City were flashing by, as well. RSL needed to close this game out. It wasn't over til Count Dracula (the strange ref) called the game. Saprissa then got a penalty off of a pretty legitimate call. Grabavoy got baited in to a fantastic spin move by a Saprissa player and the ref instantly pointed to the spot. The pk taker slotted in away calmly, but it was obvious they were feeling the desperation. The push continued into stoppage time for Saprissa with shots coming in from any and every angle. however, in the end, the away goal by Olave proved far too much for them to conquer. RSL lost 2-1, but the bench reaction would have made you thought they won 5-0. Pure ecstasy both in Costa Rica and back home for those wearing RSL claret and cobalt.

Player Ratings for RSL: Nick Rimando: B+ - His size was a bit exposed in the first goal, but Nicky was solid all night. Can't blame him on the pk. He guessed right, it was just very well placed. Nicky was huge in this series. Chris Wingert: B+ - Wingert, as expected, had many attacks go down his wing. He played very well and composed. Outside of a few lapses which weren't too major, he was incredible on the night. Nat Borchers: A- - As is usually the case, Nat was solid in back. His work rate was second to none and his positional awareness was perfect.

Robbie Russell: B-

- Russell had a decent night with a few good offensive crosses. He made, though, a couple mistakes that would have costs us against a team like Cruz Azul. Not a horrible night, but nothing superb like the rest of his defenders. Kyle Beckerman: B+ - I was tempted to give Kyle an A or possibly even MOTM award, but late on he made some incredibly stupid decisions that could have burned us. I know that the Kyle we saw for a few minutes in the second half is not the KB of norm, so no reason to worry.

Andy Williams: B+

- Andy showed just how amazing he can be on turf for parts of the first half. He also showed, though, that his defensive prowess just isn't a strong spot. This isn't anything surprising, just how things are with Bomma. Still a legend, still a great match Will Johnson: B+ - Little Willy was his usual energizer bunny self in this game. Tons of work rate from the kid. I like his style and tenacity. It makes our midfield diamond complete. Good game from Will.

Ned Grabavoy: B

- Ned got baited pretty bad on the penalty. Luckily, it was so late it didn't burn us. His defense, outside that tackle, was very good though. Ned, the best role player we have. Javier Morales: A- - I wanted to give Javi the MOTM award for this one as he was just amazing last night. Whatever the reason is, Javi gets up for games against Central American teams. His skills are amazing and his vision is pure. Great player, future legend, pure class.

Alvaro Saborio: B-

- Its rather funny that Sabo was arguably our worst player on the night when all the talk was about how we would rely on him. This is not to say Sabo had a horrible night, he did his work. It just wasn't what I've come to expect out of Sabo necessarily. High expectations, I suppose, but he has proven them time and time again. Fabian Espindola: A- - I think Espy might have read that mlssoccer.com article about him this past week and took it personally. Instead of being a hot head, he was composed and ferocious. He continued to be the bulldog we all love (and hate, at times). However, he seemed to keep it in tune. I love this player and know he has the ability to be really something special this season. Well done Fabi.

Arturo Alvarez: B

- Arty (a nickname I hate, btw) was a pretty good sub for Espy. He gave us relief on the counter and was good at picking out team-mates most of the time. He will have a huge opportunity this coming weekend, I believe, to make a mark against New England. Man of the Match: Jamison Olave (A)

"The Verb", as he is rightly known, was on his top game last night. Not only because of his ridiculous half-volley, but his amazing skill on the defensive side of things. You could really tell Jamison was playing to make his presence known. The guy is what every forward fears the most. Speed, size, skill, and strong. The 4 S's, if you will, of Jamison Olave's power.

Wanker of the Match: Armando Alonso I was curious as to who would become the "dirty player" for Saprissa with the suspension of Douglas Sequirra. Then I saw Armando Alonso, and his very strange hair, and had my answer. The outside back for Saprissa was quite a hack on the night, making some truly horrible tackles on Sabo and, especially on Espy. His tackle to earn a yellow on Espy was textbook dirty and easily, had the game been tighter or the ref been more strict, could have been red. I think I may have also been influenced by whatever the hell that hair style is that Armando has. I have never seen bangs with the pulled back cornrow... nor should I ever again.

Overall, it was a pretty decent night in San Jose, Costa Rica. RSL may have lost but they got the job done. Kreis, understandably, wasn't overly pleased with the result. This is fantastic to hear. Other coaches, I know, would be basking in the glory of being the first team in the CCL Final. Kreis, he is pissed his team lost the game. I love it. RSL will face the winner of the Cruz Azul v Monterrey series which concludes tonight in Mexico City (Azul's home town). Though Azul is down 2-1 right now after the first leg, I think they are the favorites to win. That away goal, as we saw in this very game, is incredibly valuable. I think they prevail 3-1. I hope, though this may sound awful, the game gets a bit dirty. The more suspensions for that first leg in Mexico, the better for RSL.

Tickets go on sale today for the second leg at the RioT. The match is Wednesday, April 27th and is sure to sell out. Lets make sure the RioT is full of RSL supporters and not "travelling" Azul or Monterrey fans. If you are a season ticket holder, your seats are reserved and I'm sure they will cut a deal with you to buy more. If you aren't, get a hold of a season ticket holder asap. This match is going to be epic.

Cheers,

15 to 32

FORZA REAL

4.04.2011

CCL: Pre RSL @ Saprissa

RSL travels to Saprissa this Tuesday, April 5th, to play in a game that could send them to the brink of the top international club competition. So, yeah, this is kind of a big deal.

This game will truly be a test of the strength of this RSL team, in so many ways. Playing in a very intimidating stadium is something new for this group as a whole. individuals on the team have played in this kind of environment, sure, but never as a collective RSL unit. It will be a test, to say the least, of the mental strength of this squad. What will follow is my predicted starting 11 for RSL. Following that will be keys to the match, for both teams. Finished with key players to watch and my prediction on the game itself. I'll also throw in my prediction for the Cruz Azul v Monterrey match so that my championship series will be setup.

Starting XI for RSL

Given that this will be a true test of the grit of this team, I doubt Kreis makes any serious changes to the starting lineup. In fact, I would be (hope) he goes with the usual guys so that they have that built in chemistry. Thus, this is who I bet we will see walk onto the carpet tomorrow night at 8pm:

GK: Nick Rimando

- Nick has to be big for us. He will be called on numerous times, I would assume, to make some saves. He has to be the super Nicky we all love.

LB: Chris Wingert

- Chris is the staple at outside back for this squad. He has to be a leader out there and be ready for multiple attacks right at his as Saprissa loves to use the wings.

CB: Nat Borchers

- Nat is the leader of this stellar defense. If he plays well, the rest of the guys typically do as well. Nat will be tested with the speed of these players, he has to stayed composed positionally.

CB: Jamison Olave

- Olave is the beat, the verb, the destroyer. He might have to calm it down on the last part of that, though, as I'm sure Saprissa will look to get RSL into card trouble early. Jamison has to be smart in this match. No stupid, reckless tackles.

RB: Tony Beltran

- The youngster is about to play in the biggest match of his career. Tony has proven to be a tremendous defender, and that's why I bet he gets the start over Russell. We aren't so much in need of an attack as a solid defense.

LM: Will Johnson

- Johnson's work rate will really be pushed to its limit in this one. Saprissa is going to come out flying and Will has to be smart about his runs. The guy is going to be defending a lot, especially early on, so his tackles have to be smart and well timed.

CDM: Kyle Beckerman

- Kyle is going to be called on numerous times in this match to make some big tackles. Though he is sitting on a yellow card, I truly hope he doesn't hold back too much in his physical play. I'd rather have him suspended for the first leg of the championship series than us not be in the championship series.

CAM: Javier Morales

- Javi is the engine of this squad. If he steps his game up, and I'm sure he will, we should be just fine. He will be our outlet to build an attack as Saprissa will push hard early. If he can find those spaces and exploit them like he has so far this year, we can get that valuable away goal.

RM: Andy Williams

- I was tempted to put Grabavoy in the starting lineup just because we will likely be defending early and often. With the match on turf, though, its hard to find a reason not to start Andy. The guy is pure class with the ball at his feet in general, on turf he seems to be even more amazing. Having both he and Javi on the pitch is incredible for our attack, as well.

FW: Fabian Espindola

- Though this likely counter-attack heavy game looks like a prime situation for Paulo Junior, there is no way Kreis can justify benching Fabian for this one. Espy has been on a rather quiet tear this year, truly playing some great soccer. He will need to be in top form to punish the pressing Saprissa defenders.

FW: Alvaro Saborio

- Returning to his former team and pitch has to be something special and weird for Sabo. He seemed to take the match at the RioT rather personal, I can only imagine how it will feel in front of friends and family in Costa Rica. Sabo has been the man for us in CCL, this has to continue.

3 Keys to the match for Saprissa

If Saprissa wants to mount a comeback and find a way back to the championship game, these are the three areas they have to succeed in tomorrow.

1: The first and last 10 minutes of each half.

- RSL has started out strong in the last couple of matches. Saprissa cant afford to let RSL get in early. If Saprissa wants to get this thing level quick, there is no better time than the first 10 minutes of the match. Those minutes, I believe, will be very telling of how this match goes.

2: Exploit the width of RSL

- Or should I say, exploit the lack of width of RSL. Though the diamond midfield is great at possessing the ball and moving as a unit, its not the best approach defensively. If Saprissa can get out wide it will cause RSL to get much more separated than they like to be. Early switching balls and speed are the key to beating the RSL midfield and defense.

3: Shut down the midfield - especially Javi

- The teams that tend to have success against RSL always clog up the middle of the pitch and get RSL out of its possession oriented rhythm. This will force Saprissa to really have a high defensive line. A risky venture, but if it works it'll pay off greatly.

3 Keys to the match for RSL:

If RSL wants to be the first MLS team to go to the championship series in this tournament setup, then these are the areas they must execute on very well.

1: The first and last 10 minutes of each half:

- It is vital that RSL not give up its 2 goal lead early. A counter goal would be gigantic in this match, especially early. I hope Kreis has these guys set on defending as a unit and exploding into an attack early on. It could really devastate Saprissa if they were suddenly down 3-0 and, thus, needed 4 goals to advance.

2: Find Sabo

- I'm sure Saprissa will have him marked very tightly, but if RSL can get the ball up to Sabo and he can hold it up for them, they will have success. Sabo is a special player and this is his match to put a mark on.

3: Don't be afraid

- Playing in such an extreme environment can be a nerve shaking experience for a team. These guys have to show their maturity and composure by not letting the crazy fans get to them. If RSL goes down a goal, its not the end of the world. The stadium, I'm sure, will feel as though its about to burst. RSL has to just focus and take the game one pass at a time. Focus and determination will win this series for RSL.

Player to watch for Saprissa: Jairo. Arrieta

- Arrieta is tied for leading goal scorer (3) for Saprissa in this tournament with Armando. Alonso. Saprissa has to get goals in this game to survive. Arrieta, I'm sure, will be key in the attack.

Player to watch for RSL: Nat Borchers

- Lets be honest, RSL is going to defend for a large portion of this match. Thus, it is imperative that the defensive leader have a great night. Nat is, as I stated before, the leader of this impressive defense. If they have a good night, it will be because Nat was a tremendous leader.

Game Prediction: Saprissa 2 - RSL 1

- Yes, I'm predicting the first loss of the 2011 season for RSL. I have faith in the boys, don't get me wrong, I just think this is a gigantic test for them and Saprissa. That score line, as you will note, would have RSL advance to the championship series. On aggregate, RSL would be up 3-2 and have an all too valuable away goal.

Scoring summary:

- Saprissa: 18', 75'

- RSL: 63' (Saborio)

As for the Cruz Azul v Monterrey series, I see that one going in favor of Cruz Azul. Though they are down 2-1, they are coming home to their intimidating stadium. I wouldn't be surprised to see them put on a show and win by a couple goals. I doubt it will happen, but they have the talent to pull it off. I bet they win 3-1 and, thus, advance on a 4-3 aggregate. That would setup an incredible Group A rematch for the championship. If you thought the 4-5 thriller in Mexico City or the 3-1 shocker in Salt Lake were impressive, I'd wager the final will be even better.

Cheers,

15 to 32

FORZA REAL