Monday, March 11, 2013
Trash talking over social media websites
It has been awhile since I wrote on this blog.
Something that has interested me has been the evolution between social media and professional sports.
Prior to the use of the Internet and, now the social media websites, trash talking between teams and players have been during the games and through reporters. Now the game has moved online and fans are getting a front row seat to all the action.
The first insistence I saw teams taking the trash talking to the Internet was a few weeks ago between the Dodgers and Angels.
The Angels' Josh Hamilton hit a home run against the Dodgers in a preseason game and he and the Angels started trending on Twitter. The Angels' official Twitter account acknowledged the trends, and it said "I wonder why is that." Then the Dodgers' official Twitter account replied to the tweet saying "It remembers the first time the Dodgers were trending on Twitter."
It was a nice chuckle to a good rivalry between the two.
A few days later the Atlanta Hawks beat the Utah Jazz and Lakers fans were excited that the Jazz loss. The Hawks' official Twitter account saw that and tweet to Lakers fans saying they won't be happy on Sunday night when the Hawks will beat their Lakers. Now, that was a shot!
Days later everyone watches the viral video of the Miami Heat doing the Harlem Shake, which was pretty cool. But after that video came out, the Minnesota Timberwolves' official YouTube channel released a video titled "Timberwolves Harlem Shake." What the video turned out to be was a guy in a Heat jersey dancing, then the mascot of the Wolves comes out with a plastic bat and beats up the Heat fan. At the end the mascot shakes his finger no and walks off. That was unexpected but pretty hilarious!
But I enjoy the trash talking over social media websites. It is a new element to sports trash talking. It gives fans a chance to be a part of the culture and as of now, it seems harmless.
Let's hope it gets better!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
And the postseason only started
The intense and excitement is in the air as spring rises which only means the NBA playoffs are going on.
The first round Game 1s brought surprises across the board as the Chicago Bulls witness their Most Valuable Player, Derrick Rose, go down in the late minutes against the Philadelphia 76ers with a torn ACL.
The costly injury to Rose has changed the picture in the Eastern Conference playoffs as the Bulls are close to zero percent to win the NBA championship this year.
The clear favorite to come out of the East is now the Miami Heat as it has been tearing up the New York Knicks with a 33-point win in Game 1.
The Knicks have felt the frustration with their 12 game losing streak in the playoffs as Amar'e Stoudemire punched the glass window of a fire extinguisher after the Game 2 loss.
The Boston Celtics are still hanging around as they were able to split the first two games against the Atlanta Hawks as the series heads back to Boston.
The Celtics are still showing they are capable of competing as Paul Pierce led the team to the victory as the team was without its starting guards, Rajon Rondo (who is serving a suspension) and Ray Allen (who has been out with an ankle injury).
In the last series in the East, the Orlando Magic are playing without its superstar center, Dwight Howard, as it has split the first two games with the Indiana Pacers as the series heads back to Orlando.
The Pacers are a young team as they were able to surprise the league this season with an impressive start but the team is inexperience in the postseason and winning the series against the Magic will be an accomplishment for Indiana.
Now the excitement swifts West as the playoff series in the Western Conference has been amazing as always.
The San Antonio Spurs came out swinging and dominating throughout the season as they were able to lock up the top spot in the West and draw a first round match against the Utah Jazz.
The Spurs are gliding through the Jazz and the series is looking to be one-sided and the Spurs will eventually end it in four.
The up and coming Los Angeles Clippers made a big impression in Game 1 versus the Memphis Grizzles as the Clippers were able to come back from 21 points and beat the Grizzles on the road.
The Grizzles have the edge in the series as they made noise last postseason with their first round upset against the Spurs, but with the task of beating the Clippers and Zack Randolph trying to come back from an early season injury, the Grizzles will have a tough time getting passed the Clippers.
The other Los Angeles team, the Lakers, have had their doubts from critics throughout the season but the Lakers are looking great as the postseason moves along.
The Lakers are being pulled by Andrew Bynum, who had a triple double in Game 1 against the Denver Nuggets, and Kobe Bryant, who had 38 points in Game 2 against the Nuggets, and at the same time the Lakers offense is looking solid as the defense is impressive.
The Lakers aren't the clear favorites in the West but they are making it known that they are out to kill and win another NBA championship.
The Lakers are deadly with a healthy Bryant, a dominating Bynum, a skilled Pau Gasol and a supporting cast of talented players such as Ramon Sessions, Matt Barnes, Steve Blake, Metta World-Peace, Devin Ebanks and Jordan Hill.
The last series in the West is between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the defending champion, Dallas Mavericks, the series looks like last year's second playoff series against the Mavericks and Lakers as the first two games could have went either way.
The Thunder lead the series 2-0 at the moment but the first two games have been so close that the Mavericks could have been leading 2-0 right now or at least the series could have been heading back to Dallas tied at one.
The Mavericks are not done yet in the series but they have to find a way to hold late leads because this series can easily go seven games and it would not be a surprised if Dallas wins the series.
The first games of round one have been finalized and it is only the beginning so as the first rounds play out and the postseason continues, the intense and excitement will rise to new stressful levels for the NBA fans.
And on a side note, the Lakers and Heat will be the teams to meet in this year's NBA finals as the Lakers edge the Heat for the championship in seven games.
The first round Game 1s brought surprises across the board as the Chicago Bulls witness their Most Valuable Player, Derrick Rose, go down in the late minutes against the Philadelphia 76ers with a torn ACL.
The costly injury to Rose has changed the picture in the Eastern Conference playoffs as the Bulls are close to zero percent to win the NBA championship this year.
The clear favorite to come out of the East is now the Miami Heat as it has been tearing up the New York Knicks with a 33-point win in Game 1.
The Knicks have felt the frustration with their 12 game losing streak in the playoffs as Amar'e Stoudemire punched the glass window of a fire extinguisher after the Game 2 loss.
The Boston Celtics are still hanging around as they were able to split the first two games against the Atlanta Hawks as the series heads back to Boston.
The Celtics are still showing they are capable of competing as Paul Pierce led the team to the victory as the team was without its starting guards, Rajon Rondo (who is serving a suspension) and Ray Allen (who has been out with an ankle injury).
In the last series in the East, the Orlando Magic are playing without its superstar center, Dwight Howard, as it has split the first two games with the Indiana Pacers as the series heads back to Orlando.
The Pacers are a young team as they were able to surprise the league this season with an impressive start but the team is inexperience in the postseason and winning the series against the Magic will be an accomplishment for Indiana.
Now the excitement swifts West as the playoff series in the Western Conference has been amazing as always.
The San Antonio Spurs came out swinging and dominating throughout the season as they were able to lock up the top spot in the West and draw a first round match against the Utah Jazz.
The Spurs are gliding through the Jazz and the series is looking to be one-sided and the Spurs will eventually end it in four.
The up and coming Los Angeles Clippers made a big impression in Game 1 versus the Memphis Grizzles as the Clippers were able to come back from 21 points and beat the Grizzles on the road.
The Grizzles have the edge in the series as they made noise last postseason with their first round upset against the Spurs, but with the task of beating the Clippers and Zack Randolph trying to come back from an early season injury, the Grizzles will have a tough time getting passed the Clippers.
The other Los Angeles team, the Lakers, have had their doubts from critics throughout the season but the Lakers are looking great as the postseason moves along.
The Lakers are being pulled by Andrew Bynum, who had a triple double in Game 1 against the Denver Nuggets, and Kobe Bryant, who had 38 points in Game 2 against the Nuggets, and at the same time the Lakers offense is looking solid as the defense is impressive.
The Lakers aren't the clear favorites in the West but they are making it known that they are out to kill and win another NBA championship.
The Lakers are deadly with a healthy Bryant, a dominating Bynum, a skilled Pau Gasol and a supporting cast of talented players such as Ramon Sessions, Matt Barnes, Steve Blake, Metta World-Peace, Devin Ebanks and Jordan Hill.
The last series in the West is between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the defending champion, Dallas Mavericks, the series looks like last year's second playoff series against the Mavericks and Lakers as the first two games could have went either way.
The Thunder lead the series 2-0 at the moment but the first two games have been so close that the Mavericks could have been leading 2-0 right now or at least the series could have been heading back to Dallas tied at one.
The Mavericks are not done yet in the series but they have to find a way to hold late leads because this series can easily go seven games and it would not be a surprised if Dallas wins the series.
The first games of round one have been finalized and it is only the beginning so as the first rounds play out and the postseason continues, the intense and excitement will rise to new stressful levels for the NBA fans.
And on a side note, the Lakers and Heat will be the teams to meet in this year's NBA finals as the Lakers edge the Heat for the championship in seven games.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
The NBA Year One : After Lockout
NBA: after lockout year one.
Has anything really changed for the NBA since Lebron crumbled and the Heat lost the NBA finals to a freak playoff performance by Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks?
They always say, the glory days are lost and forgotten.
When players played the game they loved and were gracious to be paid to play.
As fans, we have waited so long for basketball, and now that we have seen enough to digest, criticize, post about on facebook and Twitter, we simply can't get enough.
It's why a lockout, and a return is enough lack of media or social coverage to have us hooked.
And once the fish is hooked, the NBA reels in their desired revenue. profits to be specific, not changing the price of
admissions or a drastic realignment of their economic plan, just enough media attention than prior, which was in a bind like the supposed players union and the NBA just months ago.
Before the season started we already had drama in the city of angels.
All star point guard Chris Paul was supposed to be traded to the Lakers in a trade that was blocked by commissioner and acting owner of the New Orleans Hornets David Stern.
Paul eventually landed in Los Angeles but with the Clippers, creating the lob city Clippers with Dandre Jordan and Blake Griffin leaving fans in awe as they catch and dunk alley oops rising above the rim to do so.
The slow and old Mavericks and Celtics are desperately trying to keep pace with young rising teams such as Portland, Denver and Philadelphia.
Kobe caught fire yet again scoring 40 or more points in four straight games, yet the Lakers find themselves chasing their in-town rival Clippers led by the addition of Chris Paul and the resurgence of Blake Griffin and "Lob City" in the Pacific division.
Dwight Howard is still unsure if he wants to leave for a large market team or stay and the Magic find themselves struggling at times.
The Bulls and reigning MVP Derrick Rose sit atop the east yet have fallen to the Heat already and still look to be missing a piece to the puzzle.
With the way the season has gone on thus far, many see the Oklahoma City Thunder led by Kevin Durant and Bryan Westbrook squaring off against the Miami Heat's big three in this years NBA championship.
Let us not forget about the intoxicating story of the rise of Jeremy Lin.
A player cut by three teams in the past two years found a home in the big apple, patiently waiting for his chance to shock the world with his talents as a point guard.
A true story of resiliency and determination to prove his worth, Lin became only the second player in NBA history to average 25 points and seven assists s game in his first five starts.
What started as a heart-warming story has become an international phenomena stretching to the far east side of Asia as the Harvard graduate and first Taiwanese American athlete to achieve global status.
Lin continues to add to his game and now has a healthy duo of All Stars in Amari Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony to distribute the ball to.
The mecca of basketball, New York has won 8 of their last 10 games with Lin as the starting point guard leading into All Star weekend. The Knicks are poised to make the playoffs and continue their climb up the eastern conference standings thanks in large part to an undrafted player cut by two teams and deemed inadequate for NBA standards.
With the all star game fast approaching the stars will aline in Orlando, and the basketball world will be rocking with even more buzz and media coverage.
Mission Accomplished for the NBA right?
Wrong, at the end of the day, the NFL, the Superbowl rematch of 2007 between the Patriots and Giants, where Peyton Manning will end his legacy and Tim Tebow are still the most coveted and reel in the bigger revenues.
As fans though we sit at the edge of our seat, draped in our favorite players gear, with our popcorn in hand anticipating the buzzer beater that will propel our team to glory.
One can hope that the lockout has brought us that much closer to those glory days of Magic, Bird and Jordan.
Has anything really changed for the NBA since Lebron crumbled and the Heat lost the NBA finals to a freak playoff performance by Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks?
They always say, the glory days are lost and forgotten.
When players played the game they loved and were gracious to be paid to play.
As fans, we have waited so long for basketball, and now that we have seen enough to digest, criticize, post about on facebook and Twitter, we simply can't get enough.
It's why a lockout, and a return is enough lack of media or social coverage to have us hooked.
And once the fish is hooked, the NBA reels in their desired revenue. profits to be specific, not changing the price of
admissions or a drastic realignment of their economic plan, just enough media attention than prior, which was in a bind like the supposed players union and the NBA just months ago.
Before the season started we already had drama in the city of angels.
All star point guard Chris Paul was supposed to be traded to the Lakers in a trade that was blocked by commissioner and acting owner of the New Orleans Hornets David Stern.
Paul eventually landed in Los Angeles but with the Clippers, creating the lob city Clippers with Dandre Jordan and Blake Griffin leaving fans in awe as they catch and dunk alley oops rising above the rim to do so.
The slow and old Mavericks and Celtics are desperately trying to keep pace with young rising teams such as Portland, Denver and Philadelphia.
Kobe caught fire yet again scoring 40 or more points in four straight games, yet the Lakers find themselves chasing their in-town rival Clippers led by the addition of Chris Paul and the resurgence of Blake Griffin and "Lob City" in the Pacific division.
Dwight Howard is still unsure if he wants to leave for a large market team or stay and the Magic find themselves struggling at times.
The Bulls and reigning MVP Derrick Rose sit atop the east yet have fallen to the Heat already and still look to be missing a piece to the puzzle.
With the way the season has gone on thus far, many see the Oklahoma City Thunder led by Kevin Durant and Bryan Westbrook squaring off against the Miami Heat's big three in this years NBA championship.
Let us not forget about the intoxicating story of the rise of Jeremy Lin.
A player cut by three teams in the past two years found a home in the big apple, patiently waiting for his chance to shock the world with his talents as a point guard.
A true story of resiliency and determination to prove his worth, Lin became only the second player in NBA history to average 25 points and seven assists s game in his first five starts.
What started as a heart-warming story has become an international phenomena stretching to the far east side of Asia as the Harvard graduate and first Taiwanese American athlete to achieve global status.
Lin continues to add to his game and now has a healthy duo of All Stars in Amari Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony to distribute the ball to.
The mecca of basketball, New York has won 8 of their last 10 games with Lin as the starting point guard leading into All Star weekend. The Knicks are poised to make the playoffs and continue their climb up the eastern conference standings thanks in large part to an undrafted player cut by two teams and deemed inadequate for NBA standards.
With the all star game fast approaching the stars will aline in Orlando, and the basketball world will be rocking with even more buzz and media coverage.
Mission Accomplished for the NBA right?
Wrong, at the end of the day, the NFL, the Superbowl rematch of 2007 between the Patriots and Giants, where Peyton Manning will end his legacy and Tim Tebow are still the most coveted and reel in the bigger revenues.
As fans though we sit at the edge of our seat, draped in our favorite players gear, with our popcorn in hand anticipating the buzzer beater that will propel our team to glory.
One can hope that the lockout has brought us that much closer to those glory days of Magic, Bird and Jordan.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Riverside City College football ranks No. 4 in the nation
An undefeated season ended with a bowl title for the Riverside City College football team on Nov. 19.
The Tigers defeated Saddleback College, 31-14, which allowed them to capture the Golden State Bowl title as well as ending the season 11-0.
Despite having an incredible season and proving themselves worthy of competing for a state championship, the Tigers were unable to compete for one, because they were in a second tier division.
Note: Teams in the first tier division of the Southern California Football Association are the only ones able to play for the state title.
Yesterday Mt. San Antonio College, a team Riverside defeated during its season, 29-26 on Sept. 24, played City College of San Francisco for the California state title.
Mt. SAC overcame two deficits but was unable to beat San Francisco and capture its third state championship. Instead San Francisco was able to defeat Mt. SAC, 52-42, to capture its sixth state championship in college history.
With the loss, Mt. SAC ended its season 13-2.
In the JC Gridiron national poll ranking, RCC ends up No. 4 as Mt. SAC ends up No. 8.
It is unknown how the national championship works but prior to the California state title game, many fans of California community college football said RCC had a chance to play for the national title.
As of now RCC ends its season as the undefeated Golden State Bowl champion and No. 4 in the nation.
The Tigers defeated Saddleback College, 31-14, which allowed them to capture the Golden State Bowl title as well as ending the season 11-0.
Despite having an incredible season and proving themselves worthy of competing for a state championship, the Tigers were unable to compete for one, because they were in a second tier division.
Note: Teams in the first tier division of the Southern California Football Association are the only ones able to play for the state title.
Yesterday Mt. San Antonio College, a team Riverside defeated during its season, 29-26 on Sept. 24, played City College of San Francisco for the California state title.
Mt. SAC overcame two deficits but was unable to beat San Francisco and capture its third state championship. Instead San Francisco was able to defeat Mt. SAC, 52-42, to capture its sixth state championship in college history.
With the loss, Mt. SAC ended its season 13-2.
In the JC Gridiron national poll ranking, RCC ends up No. 4 as Mt. SAC ends up No. 8.
It is unknown how the national championship works but prior to the California state title game, many fans of California community college football said RCC had a chance to play for the national title.
As of now RCC ends its season as the undefeated Golden State Bowl champion and No. 4 in the nation.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
The choice to play with the Lakers
Every athlete wants the opportunity to win championships and go down as one of the best in their respective sport.
Dwight Howard, center of the Orlando Magic, is no different.
He too wants to compete at the highest level and win NBA championships.
The opportunity is there for the taking for Howard right now.
The opportunity is not with the Magic but with another NBA team.
The Los Angeles Lakers are the team he has that opportunity to win championships and go down as one of the best.
The Lakers are the team that gave many players the chance to win, win and win.
Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabber, Shaquille O'Neal, James Worthy, Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, Kobe Bryant and etc. are just some of the many players who came and did a whole lot with the Lakers.
Right now the Lakers are pleading a trade that will send Chris Paul, one of the best point guards in the NBA right now, to Los Angeles where the Lakers look to win another championship and many more in the years to come.
Howard has a chance to be a part of that. He has the chance to go to Los Angeles and win, win and win with Paul and Bryant.
There is a problem though . . .
There is a rumor going around that Howard does not want to come to the Lakers only because he refuses to continue to be compared to O'Neal and have people claim he is trying to be like O'Neal.
Although that is something that can be irritating and annoying to be accused of being like someone--the chance to be as good or better than a hall-of-fame player is the best thin that can happen to a player, especially Howard.
Howard has the chance to be better than O'Neal and have people see him differently.
Although their roads started the same and can end the same. When the story is over, Howard has the control of deciding what people are going to compare when it is between O'Neal and him.
Howard cannot allow this to determine his choice to be traded to Los Angeles.
He will basically avoid winning simply because he does not want others to think he is copying O'Neal. What he should be thinking is that he is blessed to be compared to the likes of O'Neal and has the shot to experience what O'Neal did.
It is not a bad choice. O'Neal did it and he is one his way to the hall-of-fame.
The Lakers are a no brainier. The New Jersey Nets are not the right choice.
Deron Williams will leave and Howard will be alone.
The Nets are not going to be respected and the New York Knicks will always be the better team in the big apple, even if they suck.
The decision is simple and it is up to Howard to determine if he wants to be his own self or always let people to think he is the like O'Neal.
Los Angeles is where he needs to be. Paul and Bryant will be waiting for him.
Dwight Howard, center of the Orlando Magic, is no different.
He too wants to compete at the highest level and win NBA championships.
The opportunity is there for the taking for Howard right now.
The opportunity is not with the Magic but with another NBA team.
The Los Angeles Lakers are the team he has that opportunity to win championships and go down as one of the best.
The Lakers are the team that gave many players the chance to win, win and win.
Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabber, Shaquille O'Neal, James Worthy, Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, Kobe Bryant and etc. are just some of the many players who came and did a whole lot with the Lakers.
Right now the Lakers are pleading a trade that will send Chris Paul, one of the best point guards in the NBA right now, to Los Angeles where the Lakers look to win another championship and many more in the years to come.
Howard has a chance to be a part of that. He has the chance to go to Los Angeles and win, win and win with Paul and Bryant.
There is a problem though . . .
There is a rumor going around that Howard does not want to come to the Lakers only because he refuses to continue to be compared to O'Neal and have people claim he is trying to be like O'Neal.
Although that is something that can be irritating and annoying to be accused of being like someone--the chance to be as good or better than a hall-of-fame player is the best thin that can happen to a player, especially Howard.
Howard has the chance to be better than O'Neal and have people see him differently.
Although their roads started the same and can end the same. When the story is over, Howard has the control of deciding what people are going to compare when it is between O'Neal and him.
Howard cannot allow this to determine his choice to be traded to Los Angeles.
He will basically avoid winning simply because he does not want others to think he is copying O'Neal. What he should be thinking is that he is blessed to be compared to the likes of O'Neal and has the shot to experience what O'Neal did.
It is not a bad choice. O'Neal did it and he is one his way to the hall-of-fame.
The Lakers are a no brainier. The New Jersey Nets are not the right choice.
Deron Williams will leave and Howard will be alone.
The Nets are not going to be respected and the New York Knicks will always be the better team in the big apple, even if they suck.
The decision is simple and it is up to Howard to determine if he wants to be his own self or always let people to think he is the like O'Neal.
Los Angeles is where he needs to be. Paul and Bryant will be waiting for him.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
With a Broken Thumb, Come Broken Playoff Hopes
The Chicago Bears were one of the hottest teams coming out of week 11. They are on a 5-game winning streak and have tied the Detroit Lions for second place in the NFC North.
The reason I say "were" is because what looked like a solid season for the Bears (7-3), one in which they could even give the Packers a run for their money, they suddenly turned as cold as Chicago winds.
Following Sunday's game, an impressive win over the charge-less Chargers, it was reported that Bears quarterback Jay Cutler had broken his thumb, requiring surgery, and is likely out for the season.
Cutler was having a solid season, on pace to match his passing yards he had in his first season with the bears with a third of the interceptions. Now, he'll have to play cheerleader on the sidelines while he watches his team wither its way out of playoff contention.
Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher says he's not worried. He says he trusts Caleb Hanie, Cutler's replacement, who barely has more NFL snaps than yours truly.
The loss of Cutler means the end of the Bears. Bears running back Matt Forte is the major reason for the bears offense staying in games. Cutler was simply a game manager and he's been doing a stellar job not messing it up this season.
As it is, Bears' wide recievers Johnny Knox and Earl Bennett are average at best. Cutler is the reason they are making any catches at all this year. How are they going to fare with Hanie behind center? My prediction, not well.
There's six games left this season and if all goes well, they can win three. They travel to Oakland next week to take on the Raiders who have finally figured out their QB situation and are back to form.
They then play Kansas City, easy, then off to Denver to try and stop the unstoppable Tim Tebow. They then come back home to play against Seattle which should be an easy win, and then finish their final two games on the road against the undefeated Packers and the lowly Vikings.
If all goes according to plan, and when I say "according to plan", I mean Forte must be lights-out and returner Devin Hester must return at least a kick-off/punt for a touchdown in every game, the Bears should finish the season 10-6.
And you say 10-6 is a good record, well yea it is, but it might not be enough for that final wildcard spot. With Cutler out, it looks like Detroit will take the second spot in the division. To get that last spot in, they have to beat out the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons, who are both just one game behind with six games left.
So how do they do it with an inexperienced QB? Well, Mike Martz, the Bears offensive coordinator, is going to have to pull out his best Jim Harbaugh impression and get his QB to not lose these next six games.
Only difference is that Alex Smith, the 49ers QB, has had time put in to mess up and learn from his mistakes. Hanie doesn't have the experience, nor the time.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 15, 2011
After a long, tumultuous off-season, in which many of us actually thought we'd never see a game this year, week one of this season is officially in the books.
With so many off-season training camps canceled and players not having a chance to really figure it out, week one predictions were probably about as hard to guess as trying to figure out which team Terrell Owens will eventually end up with, if any.
But now that we've had a chance to finally see what's become of this shortened off-season, with new acquisitions barely a month into it with their new team, lets see if we can figure out the week 2 results.
Raiders @ Bills
While both team looked impressive in week one I believe the Raiders actually have respectable talent on both sides of the field. Raiders win.
Chiefs @ Lions
With a healthy Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson finally connecting, the Lions should be able to quickly dismantle the Eric Berry-less Chiefs. Matt Cassel on the other hand should have his hands full with the beastly Ndomukong Suh. Lions Win.
Ravens @ Titans
The Dominating Ravens defense is just too powerful for Matt Hasselbeck and his new team. Ravens win.
Browns @ Colts
I know everyone is hoping the Manning-less Colts tank the season in hopes of landing Andrew Luck, but I honestly can not see Reggie Wayne and co. purposely losing games. What does that say about their integrity? What kind of message are they sending to their friend and teammate Manning? Now, I do believe the Colts sans Manning were not good enough to beat the Texans in week one, but they are good enough to beat these Browns. Colts win.
Buccaneers @ Vikings
I expected both of these teams to win their week one match-ups, but since they didn't I'm taking home field advantage. Vikings win.
Bears @ Saints
No disrespect to the Bears but after that near comeback against who I believe is the best team this year, The Green Bay Packers, Drew Brees and the Saints take the game. Saints win.
Jaguars @ Jets
After watching the Jets on Sunday night, I think we all learned that they have a lot to work on. Mark Sanchez is not the quarterback we expected coming into his 3rd season, Antonio Cromartie isn't aggressive enough to come down with the ball and blitz needs to come a little faster. The Jags should be good enough practice for the Jets to figure this out. Jets win.
Seahawks @ Steelers
The Steelers are mad about that beating they took at the hands of the Ravens. They're taking it all on Seattle. Steelers win.
Cardinals @ Redskins
The redskins are looking pretty good under the new and improved Rex Grossman and Cobb and company still have a bit of work to do, especially the defense who gave up over 400 passing yards to a rookie in his debut. Redskins win.
Packers @ Panthers
Lets see Cam Newton throw for over 400 yards against this defense. Packers win.
Cowboys @ 49ers
A good old match-up that takes us back to those old rivalry days between these two teams. But this is 20 years later. Frisco is on the uprising but not quite there yet. I see Tony Romo fixing some of his mistakes and getting the game ball. Cowgirls win.
Bengals @ Broncos
We already know this game doesn't matter. Neither of these teams are playing in the post season. Only thing I have to say is, WE WANT TEBOW. But staying on the topic, Maybe Orton gets a little motivation from all this. Broncos win.
Texans @ dolphins
Both teams played great offensively in week one. The winner of this one is going to come on the defensive side and one team is better defensively. Texans win.
Chargers @ Patriots
Tom Brady threw for 517 yards and only one of those completed passes was to Chad Ochocinco. Patriots win.
Eagles @ Falcons
Mike Vick is back in the dirttty South. Different uniform, different bird, different time. Loaded as he is, in the wallet and on the field, I can't see Vick leaving with a loss. Eagles win.
Rams @ Giants
Eli and the Giants need to win now if they truly wish to contend in their division. Playing the injury prone Rams, or Lambs, could be a great way to start. Giants win.
We'll see how this goes
With so many off-season training camps canceled and players not having a chance to really figure it out, week one predictions were probably about as hard to guess as trying to figure out which team Terrell Owens will eventually end up with, if any.
But now that we've had a chance to finally see what's become of this shortened off-season, with new acquisitions barely a month into it with their new team, lets see if we can figure out the week 2 results.
Raiders @ Bills
While both team looked impressive in week one I believe the Raiders actually have respectable talent on both sides of the field. Raiders win.
Chiefs @ Lions
With a healthy Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson finally connecting, the Lions should be able to quickly dismantle the Eric Berry-less Chiefs. Matt Cassel on the other hand should have his hands full with the beastly Ndomukong Suh. Lions Win.
Ravens @ Titans
The Dominating Ravens defense is just too powerful for Matt Hasselbeck and his new team. Ravens win.
Browns @ Colts
I know everyone is hoping the Manning-less Colts tank the season in hopes of landing Andrew Luck, but I honestly can not see Reggie Wayne and co. purposely losing games. What does that say about their integrity? What kind of message are they sending to their friend and teammate Manning? Now, I do believe the Colts sans Manning were not good enough to beat the Texans in week one, but they are good enough to beat these Browns. Colts win.
Buccaneers @ Vikings
I expected both of these teams to win their week one match-ups, but since they didn't I'm taking home field advantage. Vikings win.
Bears @ Saints
No disrespect to the Bears but after that near comeback against who I believe is the best team this year, The Green Bay Packers, Drew Brees and the Saints take the game. Saints win.
Jaguars @ Jets
After watching the Jets on Sunday night, I think we all learned that they have a lot to work on. Mark Sanchez is not the quarterback we expected coming into his 3rd season, Antonio Cromartie isn't aggressive enough to come down with the ball and blitz needs to come a little faster. The Jags should be good enough practice for the Jets to figure this out. Jets win.
Seahawks @ Steelers
The Steelers are mad about that beating they took at the hands of the Ravens. They're taking it all on Seattle. Steelers win.
Cardinals @ Redskins
The redskins are looking pretty good under the new and improved Rex Grossman and Cobb and company still have a bit of work to do, especially the defense who gave up over 400 passing yards to a rookie in his debut. Redskins win.
Packers @ Panthers
Lets see Cam Newton throw for over 400 yards against this defense. Packers win.
Cowboys @ 49ers
A good old match-up that takes us back to those old rivalry days between these two teams. But this is 20 years later. Frisco is on the uprising but not quite there yet. I see Tony Romo fixing some of his mistakes and getting the game ball. Cowgirls win.
Bengals @ Broncos
We already know this game doesn't matter. Neither of these teams are playing in the post season. Only thing I have to say is, WE WANT TEBOW. But staying on the topic, Maybe Orton gets a little motivation from all this. Broncos win.
Texans @ dolphins
Both teams played great offensively in week one. The winner of this one is going to come on the defensive side and one team is better defensively. Texans win.
Chargers @ Patriots
Tom Brady threw for 517 yards and only one of those completed passes was to Chad Ochocinco. Patriots win.
Eagles @ Falcons
Mike Vick is back in the dirttty South. Different uniform, different bird, different time. Loaded as he is, in the wallet and on the field, I can't see Vick leaving with a loss. Eagles win.
Rams @ Giants
Eli and the Giants need to win now if they truly wish to contend in their division. Playing the injury prone Rams, or Lambs, could be a great way to start. Giants win.
We'll see how this goes
Monday, August 29, 2011
RCC women's water polo looks to repeat
A preview of the Riverside City College women's water polo team's upcoming 2011 season with coach David Alquist and a few players.
Riverside City College women's water polo from Sports Lockdown on Vimeo.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Raiders are not the team for Los Angeles
A solid reason for why the Raiders should not be a serious candidate to move to Los Angeles was justified at last night's preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers.
The nonsense game between the two bay area NFL teams was supposed to be a exciting match for fans to see their teams' progress as they prepare for the start of the NFL season, turned ugly as several fans were shot and beaten by opposing fans.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported that several men were attacked by a Oakland Raiders fan following the 49ers' preseason win over the Raiders.
One man was beaten in one of the stadium's restrooms and another man was shot several times in the stadium's parking lot.
The senseless acts of violence that occurs regularly with Raider fans has stereotyped Raider fans as wild maniacs with no respect and up to no good.
Los Angeles already has its issues with having trouble identifying the suspects who beat a San Francisco fan into a coma at the Los Angeles Dodgers' opening season game in April, and the LAPD does not need more violence at sporting events if Los Angeles has the Raiders as the only NFL team willing to move to the proposed downtown football stadium.
The irresponsible sports fans are already a hand full at Dodgers' games and after the Lakers win a championship since some fans take the streets of downtown and terrorize the surrounding areas through riots.
During the '80s and '90s when the Raiders were in Los Angeles, stories of gang members stealing the logo and colors of the then Los Angeles Raiders, to use as their own began popping up. Then the stories evolved to gang members running around the LA Coliseum causing trouble during the games.
Last night's acts caused by one Raider fan only proves that the fan base of the Raiders is a serious issue and Los Angeles does not need those issues. If anything, the problem might worsen if the Raiders move back to Southern California because the few LA fans who cause trouble will find a way to ruin a wonderful accomplishment for the community of LA and beyond the stay of the Raiders in LA.
The message will continue by people opposing the idea of bring the Raiders back to Los Angeles because residents of LA knows they do not want those wild acts performed by idiot Raider fans happening in their city.
Al Davis, you had your chance in LA, please leave your goofball team where it is at.
The nonsense game between the two bay area NFL teams was supposed to be a exciting match for fans to see their teams' progress as they prepare for the start of the NFL season, turned ugly as several fans were shot and beaten by opposing fans.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported that several men were attacked by a Oakland Raiders fan following the 49ers' preseason win over the Raiders.
One man was beaten in one of the stadium's restrooms and another man was shot several times in the stadium's parking lot.
The senseless acts of violence that occurs regularly with Raider fans has stereotyped Raider fans as wild maniacs with no respect and up to no good.
Los Angeles already has its issues with having trouble identifying the suspects who beat a San Francisco fan into a coma at the Los Angeles Dodgers' opening season game in April, and the LAPD does not need more violence at sporting events if Los Angeles has the Raiders as the only NFL team willing to move to the proposed downtown football stadium.
The irresponsible sports fans are already a hand full at Dodgers' games and after the Lakers win a championship since some fans take the streets of downtown and terrorize the surrounding areas through riots.
During the '80s and '90s when the Raiders were in Los Angeles, stories of gang members stealing the logo and colors of the then Los Angeles Raiders, to use as their own began popping up. Then the stories evolved to gang members running around the LA Coliseum causing trouble during the games.
Last night's acts caused by one Raider fan only proves that the fan base of the Raiders is a serious issue and Los Angeles does not need those issues. If anything, the problem might worsen if the Raiders move back to Southern California because the few LA fans who cause trouble will find a way to ruin a wonderful accomplishment for the community of LA and beyond the stay of the Raiders in LA.
The message will continue by people opposing the idea of bring the Raiders back to Los Angeles because residents of LA knows they do not want those wild acts performed by idiot Raider fans happening in their city.
Al Davis, you had your chance in LA, please leave your goofball team where it is at.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Fear breaks out during Mexican soccer match
A chilly reminder interrupted a soccer match in Torreon, Mexico, when a gun battle erupted outside the stadium where Los Monracas de Moreila and Santos Laguna were playing.
A loud noise echoed through the stadium as if it were a bomb, while fans cheered and players ran down one side of the field chasing the ball.
Once everyone inside the stadium realized what was happening, more firearm sounds began breaking out.
The referee blew his whistle warning everyone on the field to get off the field and seconds later the players, coaches and referees are seen taking off to the locker room as the announcers calling the match, are puzzled to figure out what was happening.
Fans are stuck in the stands in fear of what is happening outside the stadium.
The gun war outside was later identified as a gun war with Mexican drug cartels and local police, some reports said.
The gun battle lasted for minutes but the match was paused for awhile and officials felt it was OK to continue the match.
The event that occurred outside the stadium today is only a small reminder of the ugly drug war that has been going on for years in Mexico since President Felipe Calderon announced his pledge to end the drug cartels' organized crime in the country.
The video below is footage of the moments happening inside the stadium during the gun battle outside.
A loud noise echoed through the stadium as if it were a bomb, while fans cheered and players ran down one side of the field chasing the ball.
Once everyone inside the stadium realized what was happening, more firearm sounds began breaking out.
The referee blew his whistle warning everyone on the field to get off the field and seconds later the players, coaches and referees are seen taking off to the locker room as the announcers calling the match, are puzzled to figure out what was happening.
Fans are stuck in the stands in fear of what is happening outside the stadium.
The gun war outside was later identified as a gun war with Mexican drug cartels and local police, some reports said.
The gun battle lasted for minutes but the match was paused for awhile and officials felt it was OK to continue the match.
The event that occurred outside the stadium today is only a small reminder of the ugly drug war that has been going on for years in Mexico since President Felipe Calderon announced his pledge to end the drug cartels' organized crime in the country.
The video below is footage of the moments happening inside the stadium during the gun battle outside.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Riverside City College football ranks among the best
With the excitement of the upcoming season, the Riverside City College football team will be starting off as one of the best community college football programs in the nation.
According to JCGridiron.com's preseason poll, the website ranks the RCC Tigers No. 12 in the nation.
The website said the Tigers will have 18 starters returning from last season's 10-1 team, but since this season's schedule is weak; the chances for the Tigers to compete for a state title can be slim.
By viewing the Tigers' 2011 schedule, the Tigers' only tough opponent is Mt. San Antonio, who is the two-time defending state champion, whereas the other opponents are not recognizable as teams with a chance to compete for state level titles.
Although Los Angeles Harbor City College, who RCC defeated in the Central Conference Bowl title game, is ranked No. 27 in the nation.
According to JCGridiron.com's preseason poll, the website ranks the RCC Tigers No. 12 in the nation.
The website said the Tigers will have 18 starters returning from last season's 10-1 team, but since this season's schedule is weak; the chances for the Tigers to compete for a state title can be slim.
By viewing the Tigers' 2011 schedule, the Tigers' only tough opponent is Mt. San Antonio, who is the two-time defending state champion, whereas the other opponents are not recognizable as teams with a chance to compete for state level titles.
Although Los Angeles Harbor City College, who RCC defeated in the Central Conference Bowl title game, is ranked No. 27 in the nation.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Riverside City College football 2011 schedule
The schedule is released for the Riverside City College football team's 2011 season.
Following a near perfect season in 2010, the RCC Tigers look to defend their Central Conference Bowl title.
Led by first year coach, Tom Craft, the Tigers made an outstanding turn around as they ended the season 10-1 after ending the 2009 season 1-9.
Losing its only game to Mt. San Antonio, the team was able to win the East Central Conference but the loss was enough to keep the Tigers out of any contention to play for a state title.
The RCC Tigers open up the season Sept. 10 at San Bernardino Valley College at 6 p.m. followed by another road game on Sept. 17 at Victor Valley College in Victorville at 1 p.m.
The team heads back home for its home opener against the team they lost to last season, Mt. San Antonio, on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m.
The schedule plays out as followed:
Oct. 1 vs. Chaffey College at 6 p.m.
Oct. 8 at Citrus College at 1 p.m.
Oct. 15 at Orange Coast at 6 p.m.
Oct. 22 vs. Golden West at 6 p.m.
Oct. 29 vs. Santa Ana at 6 p.m.
Nov. 5 at Desert of the College at 6 p.m.
Nov. 12 vs. Southwestern College at 6 p.m.
All of the RCC Tigers home games are played at Wheelock Stadium at RCC.
Following a near perfect season in 2010, the RCC Tigers look to defend their Central Conference Bowl title.
Led by first year coach, Tom Craft, the Tigers made an outstanding turn around as they ended the season 10-1 after ending the 2009 season 1-9.
Losing its only game to Mt. San Antonio, the team was able to win the East Central Conference but the loss was enough to keep the Tigers out of any contention to play for a state title.
The RCC Tigers open up the season Sept. 10 at San Bernardino Valley College at 6 p.m. followed by another road game on Sept. 17 at Victor Valley College in Victorville at 1 p.m.
The team heads back home for its home opener against the team they lost to last season, Mt. San Antonio, on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m.
The schedule plays out as followed:
Oct. 1 vs. Chaffey College at 6 p.m.
Oct. 8 at Citrus College at 1 p.m.
Oct. 15 at Orange Coast at 6 p.m.
Oct. 22 vs. Golden West at 6 p.m.
Oct. 29 vs. Santa Ana at 6 p.m.
Nov. 5 at Desert of the College at 6 p.m.
Nov. 12 vs. Southwestern College at 6 p.m.
All of the RCC Tigers home games are played at Wheelock Stadium at RCC.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
The ultimate underdog story, Japan takes home the gold
How's this for a great humanity story? After the devastating earthquake that took so many lives and destroyed so many homes, Japan still put together a women's soccer team to compete in the world cup and they stunned the US silent with a game saving comeback, and extra time comeback, and a 3-1 penalty kick victory.
Talk about a nerve-racking game.
It's been a long road for them, battling Germany and Sweden to get to the final against the ambiguous United States. Unlike the other teams in the World Cup, Japan had something more to fight for than just their nation. Many of the players lost friends and family in the devastation. That kind of grief wears on a player to the point that the game became a means of honoring those lost loved ones.
Their heart took them all the way to final, which was impressive enough. After all, they had nothing to lose whereas the US had a reputation to maintain.
After barely qualifying for the world cup in the first place and after their mediocre performances against France, Brazil and even back in the group stages, it was really something to finally see the US play up to their full potential.
U.S. coach Pia Sundhage gathered her team and came up with a brilliant game plan: suffocate the middle, exploit their height advantage, keep the game in front of you. It worked like a charm.
The Japanese have impressed the world with their beautiful possession game and Sundhage knew that she had to find a way to shut down Japan's lethal midfield if her team was to win the game.
And they did just that.
The Americans pressed the goal hard, playing tight in the middle, changing their lineup to include an extra midfielder to compensate for Japan's. It was the best performance I've seen the U.S. put on the entire World Cup.
They played together as a team, they disciplined themselves to keep to their positions and to the game plan of suffocating the middle, and they really proved to the world that they are worthy of their No. 1 ranking. It was the first time I've seen them play seamless possession soccer.
They just couldn't score. They squandered a boatload of chances that sailed over the crossbar, whacked the post and were frantically cleared by the rattled Japanese defense, chances they would later regret.
Japan, who have been decidedly impressive all tournament long, did not look like themselves at all. They seemed terrified all game and never really recovered. The US would not let them settle into their rhythm.
In the second half, the youngster Alex Morgan came off the bench, wormed her way behind the defense, received a perfect ball from Meagan Rapinoe, and scored a beautiful solo goal.
Japan finally stepped up their game and Aya Miyama (my favorite player for Japan) capitalized on the first bout of sloppy defending for the U.S. Rachel Buehler made a miserable effort to clear the ball in the front of the net, the ball fell to Ali Kreiger who didn't seem to know what to do with the ball so close to the goal mouth and laid it right into the path of Miyama. We're tied at 1-1.
The game went into extra time, where I thought for sure the U.S. had the advantage of endurance. Sure enough, Abby Wamback, who had been pounding at the goal all game long, did what she does best and headed the ball in (I'm really not sure she can score any other way).
But once again Japan came back, this time Homare Sawa, Japan's leader and play maker, tied it up again.
We're off to penalties. And again, I thought for sure penalties favored the U.S. They hardly ever miss and keeper Hope Solo owns her goal in a way that would make former keeper Brianna Scurry envious.
So let the nail biting begin. Shannon Box was up first. The crowd held its breath as she drilled the ball into Ayumi Kaihori's leg. First penalty missed.
Next up Aya Miyama. Solo was left flat-footed as Miyama sent the ball the other direction to put Japan up 1-0.
Then Carly Lloyd stepped up. Missed horribly. It took her a second to realize that she'd sent the ball whizzing over the crossbar (as she'd been doing all game long), covering her mouth with a hand, as stunned as the crowd.
Solo kept her team in the game by saving the next shot, giving Tobin Heath a chance to tie it up but Kaihori had other plans. She dove the right way and collected the ball firmly with both hands.
That three missed shots for the US, something simply unheard of in their long, impressive history.
Solo came up with another save and FINALLY! Wamback reminded her team how to take a penalty shot and burried hers home, giving the US a slim chance to catch up, but a chance nonetheless.
So it came down to Saki Kumagai to make history for Japan. And she did.
3-1 was the final score on penalties. And what a celebration. After going through such hardship at home, it was a great humanity story to see them honor their nation with a world cup win, to see Sawa win the golden boot with five goals in the tournament, and to see their heart and hard work rewarded.
The U.S. outplayed them, held firmly to a brilliant game plan, and played like the US team of old that won the 1999 world cup.
But I have to say, Japan winning the whole thing is a great underdog story that means so much more to them and to the world than if the U.S. had taken home the gold.
Talk about a nerve-racking game.
It's been a long road for them, battling Germany and Sweden to get to the final against the ambiguous United States. Unlike the other teams in the World Cup, Japan had something more to fight for than just their nation. Many of the players lost friends and family in the devastation. That kind of grief wears on a player to the point that the game became a means of honoring those lost loved ones.
Their heart took them all the way to final, which was impressive enough. After all, they had nothing to lose whereas the US had a reputation to maintain.
After barely qualifying for the world cup in the first place and after their mediocre performances against France, Brazil and even back in the group stages, it was really something to finally see the US play up to their full potential.
U.S. coach Pia Sundhage gathered her team and came up with a brilliant game plan: suffocate the middle, exploit their height advantage, keep the game in front of you. It worked like a charm.
The Japanese have impressed the world with their beautiful possession game and Sundhage knew that she had to find a way to shut down Japan's lethal midfield if her team was to win the game.
And they did just that.
The Americans pressed the goal hard, playing tight in the middle, changing their lineup to include an extra midfielder to compensate for Japan's. It was the best performance I've seen the U.S. put on the entire World Cup.
They played together as a team, they disciplined themselves to keep to their positions and to the game plan of suffocating the middle, and they really proved to the world that they are worthy of their No. 1 ranking. It was the first time I've seen them play seamless possession soccer.
They just couldn't score. They squandered a boatload of chances that sailed over the crossbar, whacked the post and were frantically cleared by the rattled Japanese defense, chances they would later regret.
Japan, who have been decidedly impressive all tournament long, did not look like themselves at all. They seemed terrified all game and never really recovered. The US would not let them settle into their rhythm.
In the second half, the youngster Alex Morgan came off the bench, wormed her way behind the defense, received a perfect ball from Meagan Rapinoe, and scored a beautiful solo goal.
Japan finally stepped up their game and Aya Miyama (my favorite player for Japan) capitalized on the first bout of sloppy defending for the U.S. Rachel Buehler made a miserable effort to clear the ball in the front of the net, the ball fell to Ali Kreiger who didn't seem to know what to do with the ball so close to the goal mouth and laid it right into the path of Miyama. We're tied at 1-1.
The game went into extra time, where I thought for sure the U.S. had the advantage of endurance. Sure enough, Abby Wamback, who had been pounding at the goal all game long, did what she does best and headed the ball in (I'm really not sure she can score any other way).
But once again Japan came back, this time Homare Sawa, Japan's leader and play maker, tied it up again.
We're off to penalties. And again, I thought for sure penalties favored the U.S. They hardly ever miss and keeper Hope Solo owns her goal in a way that would make former keeper Brianna Scurry envious.
So let the nail biting begin. Shannon Box was up first. The crowd held its breath as she drilled the ball into Ayumi Kaihori's leg. First penalty missed.
Next up Aya Miyama. Solo was left flat-footed as Miyama sent the ball the other direction to put Japan up 1-0.
Then Carly Lloyd stepped up. Missed horribly. It took her a second to realize that she'd sent the ball whizzing over the crossbar (as she'd been doing all game long), covering her mouth with a hand, as stunned as the crowd.
Solo kept her team in the game by saving the next shot, giving Tobin Heath a chance to tie it up but Kaihori had other plans. She dove the right way and collected the ball firmly with both hands.
That three missed shots for the US, something simply unheard of in their long, impressive history.
Solo came up with another save and FINALLY! Wamback reminded her team how to take a penalty shot and burried hers home, giving the US a slim chance to catch up, but a chance nonetheless.
So it came down to Saki Kumagai to make history for Japan. And she did.
3-1 was the final score on penalties. And what a celebration. After going through such hardship at home, it was a great humanity story to see them honor their nation with a world cup win, to see Sawa win the golden boot with five goals in the tournament, and to see their heart and hard work rewarded.
The U.S. outplayed them, held firmly to a brilliant game plan, and played like the US team of old that won the 1999 world cup.
But I have to say, Japan winning the whole thing is a great underdog story that means so much more to them and to the world than if the U.S. had taken home the gold.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
United States and Japan looks to make history
The long road to glory is one match away for the United States' women's national soccer team.
Following emotional, hard fought wins over difficult teams like Brazil and France, the United States has strengthen its identity of being the most dominate women's soccer team in the world and being able to back up its No. 1 rank in the world.
Following the 2-1 loss to Sweden in the final match of group play, the United States battled a giant opponent in Brazil where the U.S. needed a late miracle from Abby Wambach in extra time to send the match to a penalty kick shootout; where the U.S. won the match 5-3 in penalties.
With little to celebrate, the U.S. had to bounce back and face a up and coming young France team full of young stars.
The France team did not mess around as it controlled the match for the majority of the time. While the match stood at 1-1 with less than 15 minutes to go, Wambach came through for the U.S. to send the team to the finals.
The U.S. will be facing Japan, who had a rough road getting to the finals, because they were not favored against Germany. Japan was not getting no media attention from its own country and many did not see them getting this far.
But Japan managed to use anything it could built momentum on and it has sent them passed Germany, who were many people's pick to face U.S. in the finals, and Sweden who were slight favorites over Japan.
The Japanese women have shown lots of pride and emotion in its matches throughout the tournament and facing them in the finals, where they do not have anything to lose, only makes the match much harder for the United States to win.
Despite the United States overcoming the Brazil team, which the best player in the world, the team has a lot on the line, including a 2-0 record the United States has in the Women's World Cup finals.
The last time United States won the Women's World Cup was in 1999 against China at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.
Faith has brought these two teams to the end of the road where one will come up glories while the other one looks beyond in what was not to be for them.
A lot is on the line for both teams as Japan is using the earthquakes that have devastated its country and the United States that has overcame elimination in stressful, heart-pounding moments.
Following emotional, hard fought wins over difficult teams like Brazil and France, the United States has strengthen its identity of being the most dominate women's soccer team in the world and being able to back up its No. 1 rank in the world.
Following the 2-1 loss to Sweden in the final match of group play, the United States battled a giant opponent in Brazil where the U.S. needed a late miracle from Abby Wambach in extra time to send the match to a penalty kick shootout; where the U.S. won the match 5-3 in penalties.
With little to celebrate, the U.S. had to bounce back and face a up and coming young France team full of young stars.
The France team did not mess around as it controlled the match for the majority of the time. While the match stood at 1-1 with less than 15 minutes to go, Wambach came through for the U.S. to send the team to the finals.
The U.S. will be facing Japan, who had a rough road getting to the finals, because they were not favored against Germany. Japan was not getting no media attention from its own country and many did not see them getting this far.
But Japan managed to use anything it could built momentum on and it has sent them passed Germany, who were many people's pick to face U.S. in the finals, and Sweden who were slight favorites over Japan.
The Japanese women have shown lots of pride and emotion in its matches throughout the tournament and facing them in the finals, where they do not have anything to lose, only makes the match much harder for the United States to win.
Despite the United States overcoming the Brazil team, which the best player in the world, the team has a lot on the line, including a 2-0 record the United States has in the Women's World Cup finals.
The last time United States won the Women's World Cup was in 1999 against China at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.
Faith has brought these two teams to the end of the road where one will come up glories while the other one looks beyond in what was not to be for them.
A lot is on the line for both teams as Japan is using the earthquakes that have devastated its country and the United States that has overcame elimination in stressful, heart-pounding moments.
Defense sends USA to World Cup final
After barely managing a win against Brazil, the US women’s soccer team had yet another less than convincing victory against France.
The game ended 3-1 but this was one of those games where the score line does not tell half the story.
Out-possessed, out-shot and out-played, the US really had no business winning the game.
In the end, however, it was the defense that decided the game. The French midfield was superb. Between Necib, Abily and Bompastor, the French controlled the game from start to finish. The first opportunity US had on was in the 10th minute of play . . . and Lauren Cheney poked it home.
It was all France after that. The five-player midfield displayed brilliant prowess, passed circles around Carly Lloyd and Shannon Box (the weakest links of the US team), sent shots whizzing barely over the crossbar, and whacked the post more than a few times, but they didn’t put the ball in the net until the second half. Sonia Bompastor to the rescue!
France’s biggest weakness was their defense. This was where the US held their greatest advantage. With a keeper as unbelievably mobile as Hope Solo, the incessant shots by Abily and France's lone striker Delie were kept at bay.
US sweeper Christy Rampone (the player of the game in my book) kept her defense together and organized them to keep the French players in front of them instead of committing to their dribbling.
And the dribbling was pretty fantastic.
Camille Abily and Louisa Necib gave the US defense fits, dribbling three and four players at once with fancy moves that would’ve impressed the Brazilians.
And I have to take a moment to mention the individual prowess Necib. Louisa Necib . . . remember that name because she is going to be the world’s next best player. Perfect touch, perfect vision, and perfect composure, the US had a difficult time containing her.
But the US defense held strong and if they did not completely contain the French players, they did enough. The French defense did not.
In the last ten minutes of play, Wambach headed the ball home and Alex Morgan scored her first world cup goal. No offense to any of the strikers but to be honest, the goals were all results of defensive errors on France’s part.
The game ended 3-1 but this was one of those games where the score line does not tell half the story.
Out-possessed, out-shot and out-played, the US really had no business winning the game.
In the end, however, it was the defense that decided the game. The French midfield was superb. Between Necib, Abily and Bompastor, the French controlled the game from start to finish. The first opportunity US had on was in the 10th minute of play . . . and Lauren Cheney poked it home.
It was all France after that. The five-player midfield displayed brilliant prowess, passed circles around Carly Lloyd and Shannon Box (the weakest links of the US team), sent shots whizzing barely over the crossbar, and whacked the post more than a few times, but they didn’t put the ball in the net until the second half. Sonia Bompastor to the rescue!
France’s biggest weakness was their defense. This was where the US held their greatest advantage. With a keeper as unbelievably mobile as Hope Solo, the incessant shots by Abily and France's lone striker Delie were kept at bay.
US sweeper Christy Rampone (the player of the game in my book) kept her defense together and organized them to keep the French players in front of them instead of committing to their dribbling.
And the dribbling was pretty fantastic.
Camille Abily and Louisa Necib gave the US defense fits, dribbling three and four players at once with fancy moves that would’ve impressed the Brazilians.
And I have to take a moment to mention the individual prowess Necib. Louisa Necib . . . remember that name because she is going to be the world’s next best player. Perfect touch, perfect vision, and perfect composure, the US had a difficult time containing her.
But the US defense held strong and if they did not completely contain the French players, they did enough. The French defense did not.
In the last ten minutes of play, Wambach headed the ball home and Alex Morgan scored her first world cup goal. No offense to any of the strikers but to be honest, the goals were all results of defensive errors on France’s part.
Nevertheless, the US capitalized on France’s unfortunate weakness and despite being horribly out-played, the US defense insured the team a place in the final for the first time since 1999.
The US will face yet another tactically strong midfield team, Japan, in the final on Sunday. France and Sweden face off in the third/fourth place match on Saturday.
The US will face yet another tactically strong midfield team, Japan, in the final on Sunday. France and Sweden face off in the third/fourth place match on Saturday.
Monday, July 11, 2011
USA narrowly defeats Brazil in quarter final
The weekend's quarter final matches of the women's world cup were . . . unexpected. Who would've thought that Japan would give the two-time reigning champions a run for their money?
Sweden soundly defeated Australia in the only quarter final match that did not go to extra time, and France emerged victorious in a penalty shootout with England. But the match of the weekend was definitely USA and Brazil.
The game was practically decided on controversial calls by the referee. Honestly, as far as play, the game could've gone either way. The USA trumped Brazil in team work and chemistry, but they were no match for the individual flare of the Brazilians.
In the second minute of play, Brazilian defender Daiane scored an unfortunate own goal, putting the Americans up for the entire first half.
The second half was where all the controversy happened. USA defender Rachel Beuhler had no choice but to pull Marta down in the box or the world's best female player would definitely have tied the game. Obvious foul. Obvious penalty. But a straight red card? I'm not sure it was even a yellow.
Christiane lined up to take the penalty, but USA keeper Hope Solo saved it (I still can't believe how good she is at saving penalty kicks). The referee whistled a re-kick.
Now, initially no one knew why. It came out later in the game that there was some encroachment by an American player . . . maybe, possibly, by a mere few inches, Wambach kind of encroached a second before the shot was taken.
In any case, Marta took the second shot. She missed a vital penalty in the last world cup final against Germany . . . but she was not about to miss again. With the game tied at 1-1, the USA down to 10 players and Brazil finally feeling their thunder, it was looking pretty bleak for the USA.
And then it got even worse.
In the first few minutes of extra time, an offside call was not called and Marta scored a tricky goal off of it. Unfortunately it does happen in soccer and you just kind of deal with it . . . And it was one pretty goal.
By the second half of extra time, with Brazil up 2-1, the USA could not wait any longer. They had no choice but to gun at Brazil with everything they had. And they did. In the end, with 10 players, USA outlasted Brazil and Abby Wambach headed the ball home in the extra time of extra time. Literally at the last possible second.
On to penalty kicks.
Poor Daiane, the same person who scored the own goal, missed her penalty and the USA scored all five of theirs.
Sweden soundly defeated Australia in the only quarter final match that did not go to extra time, and France emerged victorious in a penalty shootout with England. But the match of the weekend was definitely USA and Brazil.
The game was practically decided on controversial calls by the referee. Honestly, as far as play, the game could've gone either way. The USA trumped Brazil in team work and chemistry, but they were no match for the individual flare of the Brazilians.
In the second minute of play, Brazilian defender Daiane scored an unfortunate own goal, putting the Americans up for the entire first half.
The second half was where all the controversy happened. USA defender Rachel Beuhler had no choice but to pull Marta down in the box or the world's best female player would definitely have tied the game. Obvious foul. Obvious penalty. But a straight red card? I'm not sure it was even a yellow.
Christiane lined up to take the penalty, but USA keeper Hope Solo saved it (I still can't believe how good she is at saving penalty kicks). The referee whistled a re-kick.
Now, initially no one knew why. It came out later in the game that there was some encroachment by an American player . . . maybe, possibly, by a mere few inches, Wambach kind of encroached a second before the shot was taken.
In any case, Marta took the second shot. She missed a vital penalty in the last world cup final against Germany . . . but she was not about to miss again. With the game tied at 1-1, the USA down to 10 players and Brazil finally feeling their thunder, it was looking pretty bleak for the USA.
And then it got even worse.
In the first few minutes of extra time, an offside call was not called and Marta scored a tricky goal off of it. Unfortunately it does happen in soccer and you just kind of deal with it . . . And it was one pretty goal.
By the second half of extra time, with Brazil up 2-1, the USA could not wait any longer. They had no choice but to gun at Brazil with everything they had. And they did. In the end, with 10 players, USA outlasted Brazil and Abby Wambach headed the ball home in the extra time of extra time. Literally at the last possible second.
On to penalty kicks.
Poor Daiane, the same person who scored the own goal, missed her penalty and the USA scored all five of theirs.
Though the USA beat the mighty Brazilians (and I'm going to miss watch Marta), they're still missing something. I just don't think they have what they need to win this world cup. Sweden out classed them and if they face Sweden again, I think they will lose again for the same reason.
USA will play France in the semifinals on Wednesday and we will see if they stand to an organized midfield, something Brazil lacked but Sweden dominated.
Japan will play Sweden on Wednesday.
USA will play France in the semifinals on Wednesday and we will see if they stand to an organized midfield, something Brazil lacked but Sweden dominated.
Japan will play Sweden on Wednesday.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Tomorrow's soccer stars look to make history
The youth of soccer has been demonstrating the future of international soccer in Mexico for the past month and the celebration ends Sunday when one rising squad of youths will be crown U-17 FIFA World Cup champions.
The final two squads are Mexico and Uruguay, who will meet Sunday at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City for the top prize of the tournament.
The Mexican team had its share of doubtfulness well it trailed a strong Germany squad in the semifinals.
Mexico struck first in the beginning minutes with a header by Julio Gomez as the Mexicans celebrated the early success.
The smiles would not last long as Germany responded with a goal of its own seven minutes later. The two teams remained tied ending the first half.
By the 60th minute, Germany took the lead while Mexico began to wonder if its campaign to another U-17 World Cup title will be ending in the hands of the Germans,
Without hesitation Mexico continued to strike on goal and 18 minutes later Mexico got its answer off a corner kick and tied the match.
Soon later Gomez found himself injured and the Mexicans were left to force extra time in a 2-2 draw or score another goal with 10 minutes to go in the match.
The rising hero with a bandage wrapped around his head, Gomez, returned into the game as Mexico had a final chance to win the match with another corner kick.
As the ball with up and toward the goal, it was deflected and without thinking, Gomez scored the winning goal for Mexico to send them off to the finals.
The heroic performance by Gomez has created a avalanche of momentum for Mexico as it looks to win its second U-17 World Cup. The country won its last one in 2005, that was led by Carlos Vela.
The team will not have a easy run to the trophy because they will have Uruguay in the way, the team who shutout Brazil in a 3-0 win.
Uruguay jumped on top of Brazil with a penalty in the first half.
In the second half Uruguay poured two more goals in to send a messaged to everyone that it is not settling for a trip to the finals but to win the trophy too.
The two performances by Mexico and Uruguay in the semifinals sets up a awesome match. The two teams have been outstanding throughout the tournament as both won difficult games against outstanding opponents.
The two teams have came out from the pack and Sunday will be their chance to claim the world's prize and mark history in their young lives.
Without a doubt Mexico will have the home field advantage and will be favorites in the match but Uruguay has other plans too.
It will be a exciting match and Mexico will emerge as the clear winners.
The final two squads are Mexico and Uruguay, who will meet Sunday at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City for the top prize of the tournament.
The Mexican team had its share of doubtfulness well it trailed a strong Germany squad in the semifinals.
Mexico struck first in the beginning minutes with a header by Julio Gomez as the Mexicans celebrated the early success.
The smiles would not last long as Germany responded with a goal of its own seven minutes later. The two teams remained tied ending the first half.
By the 60th minute, Germany took the lead while Mexico began to wonder if its campaign to another U-17 World Cup title will be ending in the hands of the Germans,
Without hesitation Mexico continued to strike on goal and 18 minutes later Mexico got its answer off a corner kick and tied the match.
Soon later Gomez found himself injured and the Mexicans were left to force extra time in a 2-2 draw or score another goal with 10 minutes to go in the match.
The rising hero with a bandage wrapped around his head, Gomez, returned into the game as Mexico had a final chance to win the match with another corner kick.
As the ball with up and toward the goal, it was deflected and without thinking, Gomez scored the winning goal for Mexico to send them off to the finals.
The heroic performance by Gomez has created a avalanche of momentum for Mexico as it looks to win its second U-17 World Cup. The country won its last one in 2005, that was led by Carlos Vela.
The team will not have a easy run to the trophy because they will have Uruguay in the way, the team who shutout Brazil in a 3-0 win.
Uruguay jumped on top of Brazil with a penalty in the first half.
In the second half Uruguay poured two more goals in to send a messaged to everyone that it is not settling for a trip to the finals but to win the trophy too.
The two performances by Mexico and Uruguay in the semifinals sets up a awesome match. The two teams have been outstanding throughout the tournament as both won difficult games against outstanding opponents.
The two teams have came out from the pack and Sunday will be their chance to claim the world's prize and mark history in their young lives.
Without a doubt Mexico will have the home field advantage and will be favorites in the match but Uruguay has other plans too.
It will be a exciting match and Mexico will emerge as the clear winners.
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