http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?fid4ct=24513 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:08:00 EDT Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:40:00 EDT http://backend.userland.com/rss RapidFeeds v0.1 -- http://www.rapidfeeds.com In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul provides his thoughts on the Canadian Soccer Association's recent announcement that the Canadian Men's National Team will play all of its 2012 home World Cup qualifiers in Toronto at BMO Field. He also discusses the selection of the United States as the opponent for Canada in their last friendly before their second round of World Cup qualifying kicks off. Paul discusses the Vancouver Whitecaps acquisition of Sebastian Le Toux and their hiring of Carl Robinson as an Assistant Coach, as well as breaks down Toronto FC's offseason roster moves. He also provides his analysis the Canadian Women's National Team's performance at the recent CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Vancouver. Lastly, Paul provides a quick teaser about his upcoming book. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6500110 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6500110 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:55:00 EDT Having already covered the educational and developmental aspects of the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) and Ajax Amsterdam FC model being emulated by Toronto FC the final part in this series will focus on financial responsibility and how being a “Feeder” club is beneficial to Toronto FC, TFC Academy and Canadian Men’s National Team. As the old saying goes “A penny saved is a penny earned”, truer words have never been spoken, especially when speaking about football clubs.
 
 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499337 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499337 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:21:00 EDT Paul Marhue's take on the right mode of transportation... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499334 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499334 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:20:00 EDT 2012 is shaping up to what could be the best year of Canadian football in recent memory. The women’s national team appears back on track heading to the London Olympics, the Men’s national team, buoyed by the potential addition of dynamic midfielder Jonathan De Guzman, are positioned to make progress in the third round of World Cup Qualifying, and for the first time since 1983 there are top flight teams in Canada spanning coast to coast. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499333 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499333 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:19:00 EDT Finally the weekend has arrived where there will be no more lamenting of winter breaks and patiently waiting for all of Germany to come out of it’s deep freeze. However no sooner can we celebrate this than a slew of matches across the continent were postponed. Regardless of another wrench thrown in a high count of Canadians competing this weekend, the good news is the players that have been garnering the most attention have kept up their fine form. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499331 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6499331 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:18:00 EDT RedNation recently had the chance to catch up with Dr. Hill to discuss the state of match fixing in 2012 and to get his thoughts on developments in his field of expertise since The Fix was published. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6498951 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6498951 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 21:48:00 EDT The Canadian International and Politehnica Timisoara striker reveals the ten players he would most like to line up with to form his ideal starting eleven. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6497582 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6497582 Sat, 04 Feb 2012 01:29:00 EDT There are some things in life that I will never understand: algebra, shopaholics, and why, when given the choice, somebody would opt for white bread over nice, seedy, brown stuff. When it comes to football, I like to think I understand it all – even Arsene Wenger’s questionable substitutions – but, alas, I do not: why oh why do football clubs often wait to negotiate the bulk of their transfers when the window is going to shut in an hour or two? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6496893 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6496893 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:17:00 EDT The first thing to get out of the way is – should you ever get an opportunity to attend a kit unveiling, do not pass it up. I highly recommend it. It is so choice. Six bison burger sliders, four flatbread pizza slices, two mini beaver tails and two extra pints because “I dropped my drink vouchers” later, all I can say is the new kits are AWESOME. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6496429 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6496429 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:22:00 EDT The day Toronto FC signed Ecuadorian centerback Geovanny Caicedo, I decided to celebrate with a burrito, because ... why not? Caicedo, along with his fellow teammate and compatriot Joao Plata, will be vital figures for the Reds roster in 2012. Add to the fact that Eric Avila found himself a fellow Gaucho to compete with in Luis Silva, and the call of the Californian burrito was overwhelming – but where to find it? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6495204 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6495204 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 23:25:00 EDT Consider 2011 to be a very distant memory for the Vancouver Whitecaps, as they’re clearly looking forward to 2012. In a city that demands success, the Whitecaps have proved this offseason that they’re not content to sit on the sidelines of MLS soccer and wait to be good; they’ve been aggressive, they’ve had deep pockets, and they’ve acquired some supreme talent in the last couple of months. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6494977 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6494977 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EDT With TFC undergoing so many changes last season, both in terms of personnel and organizational philosophy, 2011 was certainly a year in which most of the players on the Toronto squad barely had a chance to catch their breath. That said, maybe more than any other player on the roster, Terry Dunfield experienced a genuine whirlwind of a calendar year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6494610 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6494610 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:24:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, former Canadian International and Vancouver Whitecaps defender Chris Williams sits in again for Paul and discusses a wide range of topics related to the performance of the Canadian Women's National Team at the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Vancouver. He also provides his thoughts on Josh Simpson's recent decision to terminate his contract with Manisaspor due to unpaid wages and his signing with BSC Young Boys in Switzerland. Chris also breaks down Toronto FC's offseason and their signing of defender Geovanny Caicedo, as well as provides his opinion on the state of the Whitecaps attack heading into their second MLS campaign and Vancouver's decision to release Designated Player Mustapha Jarju. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6493387 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6493387 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:05:00 EDT In the wake of an MLS Draft, emerging youth academies and a third top flight football club in Canada, it can be hard to imagine it was only a short time ago that none of those paths to a professional football career would have been an option among young up and coming players in this country. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6493360 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6493360 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 02:24:00 EDT New East Side Stand Up! strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492773 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492773 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:16:00 EDT With their spots in the 2012 London Olympic Games secured, Canada and the US battled to reign over the CONCACAF region. The 4-0 result in favour of the Americans really wasn't the way that Canada had anticipated their tournament to end, but the sell out crowd of 25, 427, the second largest attendance for a senior women's match in Canada behind their 2003 friendly against Mexico (29,000), capped off five nights of raucous fanfare that makes the arrival of the 2015 Women's World Cup in Canada ever more exciting. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492721 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492721 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:28:00 EDT While in Part one we looked at how the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) and Ajax Amsterdam FC treats the education of players and coaches this article will focus on development centered on free expression. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492248 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492248 Sun, 29 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EDT With Toronto FC having opened their preseason, the entire squad is concurrently preparing for the 2012 MLS season and their huge CONCACAF Champions League fixture against the MLS Cup Champion Los Angeles Galaxy on March 7th. And while the Galaxy certainly have to be considered the favourites in their Knockout stage matchup with the 2011 Canadian Champions, all of the Toronto FC players have expressed their belief that they can defeat Beckham, Donovan and company if they play to their full potential as a team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492244 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492244 Sun, 29 Jan 2012 23:57:00 EDT All in all it was another weekend mixed with some high moments as we wait for a few players to return from injury, and a handful more from a long winter break. The Bundesliga is a week away from being in full swing from top to bottom and there will be some important players to watch in the second half of the campaign, namely can Olivier Occean continue his form and will Randy Edwini-Bonsu be able to carry his prolific rate from Finland to Braunschweiger. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492242 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6492242 Sun, 29 Jan 2012 23:56:00 EDT In watching this Canadian women’s national soccer team over the past few weeks, the togetherness this team shows is really what sticks. While we in the media would ask the likes of Karina LeBlanc and Erin McLeod, both world class keepers, how they get along, since undoubtedly they would love to be playing every game. There could be some bitterness towards the other that they have to split time—they simply say there’s a bigger picture involved. It’s not about personal accomplishments. They’re representing their country and what matters most is that the team gets the win, no matter who’s in net. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6491959 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6491959 Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:21:00 EDT The Canadian Women's National Team have qualified for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, after a 3 - 1 victory over Mexico. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6491377 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6491377 Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:15:00 EDT Toronto FC officially kicked off their 2012 campaign yesterday with their annual Media Day festivities and, unlike past years, there was a distinct feeling of real continuity around the proceedings. Whereas in previous years these types of events were chock full of a multitude of new faces and often centred on a new Head Coach, everything about yesterday’s kickoff felt like a logical progression from the renewal project that had begun under Head Coach and Technical Director Aron Winter at the beginning of last season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6490504 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6490504 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:58:00 EDT The Canadian Women's National Team are ninety minutes away from advancing to the Finals, but most importantly earning a spot in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games. All that is standing between them and London is Mexico, who Canada has defeated sixteen out of eighteen encounters. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6490100 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6490100 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:43:00 EDT In this interview, Reggie and RedNation discuss his move to the MLS and signing with Toronto FC, his goals for his first season in Major League Soccer, the possibilities inherent in playing on a forward line with Danny Koevermans and Joao Plata, how well his game fits into Aron Winter's tactical system and Canadian International Jaime Peters. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6489671 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6489671 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:34:00 EDT In Part 1 of this article, the science behind both conventional and harnessed treadmill over-speed training methods was examined. In Part 2, the specific training plan used with Joseph Di Chiara, of Team Canada and Krylia Sovotev in the Russian Premier League, during the December 2011 break, will be presented. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6488662 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6488662 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 23:19:00 EDT n this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Marius Rovde, goalkeeper coach with both the U20 and U17 Canadian National teams and the Vancouver Whitecaps, sits in for Paul and discusses the state of the Canadian Men's National Team keeper pool, the next generation of Canadian keepers, what he looks for when trying to find young keepers with the potential to move on to the professional and International levels and how the young talent that Canada has at the keeper position compares to that of other CONCACAF countries. He also provides his thoughts on the general state of youth player development in Canada, the importance of having at least one of the Canadian MLS clubs competing in the 2012 MLS Playoffs and the performance of John Herdman and the Canadian Women's National Team at the 2012 CONCACAF Women's Olympic Qualifying tournament in Vancouver. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6487825 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6487825 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:45:00 EDT Alan Koch a native of Durban, South Africa will enter his fifth season as head coach of the Simon Fraser University men's soccer program in 2012. Koch, now a proud Canadian citizen, is the quickest coach in SFU history to get to the 50 win milestone. He has an overall head coach record of 90-27-2 (68-11-2 at SFU), and a .756 winning percentage. He has earned four consecutive Conference Coach of the Year awards since arriving at SFU. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6487709 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6487709 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:30:00 EDT Regarded as the fourth best team in the region, Las Ticas was anticipated to be Canada's only formidable opponent in the group stage. Costa Rica, like Canada, was victorious over both Cuba and Haiti en route to Monday night's match. The last time the two teams met was at last year's Pan American Games where Big Red triumphed 3-1. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6487617 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6487617 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:23:00 EDT As the philosophy of Toronto FC continues to build and grow it has been made abundantly clear that they are following the model established by Dutch soccer club Ajax Amsterdam FC. While it begins and ends with Head Coach and Technical Director Aron Winter, the addition of new Academy Director Thomas Rongen and the inevitable addition of like minded coaches is a true sign of the clubs intent. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6486858 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6486858 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:26:00 EDT New East Side Stand Up! strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6486095 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6486095 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 03:52:00 EDT With a handful of leagues and clubs coming out of their winter break, the weeks ahead will finally begin to produce some substantial news for Canucks abroad once again. The Bundesliga kicked off the second half of their season, with the 2.Bundesliga to follow in the first weekend of February. The Netherlands are now back into it full swing, and after that we are just waiting for Tosaint Ricketts to recommence with his Romanian side Timisoara. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6486094 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6486094 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 03:51:00 EDT The final score was a lot closer than anticipated, nonetheless, a win is a win and Canada officially booked their ticket to the semi-finals of the 2012 CONCACAF Women's Olympic Qualifiers with a 2-0 victory over Cuba. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6485566 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6485566 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:27:00 EDT Captain Christine Sinclair reaffirmed her status as a world class player, securing 4 goals and an assist. She's now the 5th all-time leading scorer in women's international soccer with 124 goals, just one behind the USWNT's Abby Wambach, and currently leads all-time CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying scoring with 10 goals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483681 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483681 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:55:00 EDT With both the MLS SuperDraft and MLS Supplemental draft having been completed, most Major League Soccer clubs are now looking for established veteran talent to fill out their rosters and to hopefully give them a leg up on the competition. And in the case of clubs like the Montreal Impact, some are looking to sign just the right Designated Player to bolster their team on the pitch and at the box office. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483672 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483672 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:41:00 EDT Well, after flirting with the idea of ending his career playing in the City of Light with Paris Saint-Germain, Goldenballs himself, David Beckham, made it official today that he is returning to the Los Angeles Galaxy to continue his role as a soccer missionary in the United States. The 37 year old former Manchester United and England National Team star has signed on for two more years with Major League Soccer and his entire brood will accompany him back to Beverly Hills. Nudged on by NBC, Tim Tebow apparently prayed that it would happen and some higher power has now made his return a reality. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483212 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483212 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:52:00 EDT Going into the MLS SuperDraft many Toronto FC journalists and supporters were clamouring for a new central defender. It made sense; heading into the new season Toronto is rumoured to be losing Andy Iro to free agency and both Dicoy Williams and Adrian Cann are recovering from serious knee injuries. Although captain Torsten Frings was deployed in the position numerous times last season his best position is clearly midfield. This left the club with Ty Harden as the only dependable centre back on the squad, and even then he has his many detractors. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483211 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6483211 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:41:00 EDT With the addition of Darren Mattocks to the fold, the Vancouver Whitecaps have another reason to be optimistic about next season. If you look up and down their lineup, you see a plethora of potential. Eric Hassli, Camilio, Atiba Harris and possibly Mattocks will anchor the offensive side of the ball, while Jay Demerit and Alain Rochat will anchor the defense. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6482174 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6482174 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:32:00 EDT The 2012 CONCACAF Olympic Women’s Qualifying tournament that is set to get underway is a rare opportunity for the Canadian women’s team to get a series of games at home in front of Canadian support. After this summer’s World Cup, the women’s team is in a bit of a campaign to save a little face after this summer’s World Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6482013 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6482013 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:09:00 EDT It’s been quite the busy time for Goalkeeper Brad Knighton. While most MLS players have been relaxing on vacation or getting ready for the season in the weight room, Knight has had a new baby girl to occupy his time. If he was a bit sour about his trade to the Vancouver Whitecaps, you could forgive him, However, Knighton is cheery as ever, albeit with a definite tone of fatigue in his voice. Knighton, who spent last season in Carolina playing for the Railhawks, is excited to be back in the MLS, and will unquestionably feel a whole lot more relaxed when his move is complete. For now, he’s happy that the Whitecaps have helped ease the transition to moving to a new country. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6481601 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6481601 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:21:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the opportunity to chat with FC Edmonton Technical Director Joe Petrone to discuss his team's offseason and preparations for its second season in the North American Soccer League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6481063 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6481063 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:56:00 EDT Thousands rise to their feet inside Wembley Stadium, as Gillingham sets up for what could be the last corner kick of regulation. The ball is hoofed into the box, and among all the black and blue Shrewsbury jerseys, Simeon Jackson leaps to put his head on the perfectly placed cross. The ball hits the post, bounces off the goalie’s hands and crosses the goal line. The blue side of Wembley erupts as Jackson runs with his teammates to celebrate a legendary League Two Final in London. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6480065 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6480065 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 23:47:00 EDT Last week I went to watch the Toronto Raptors lose against the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. Despite finding televised basketball quite tedious, I actually enjoyed my first live experience of the sport. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6480064 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6480064 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 23:46:00 EDT The grassroots of Canadian soccer in Ontario has always been akin to the Wild West, with so many different entities having completely separate ideas and placing importance on their own agendas. To this day, it’s even the case of individual teams within a given league placing importance on specific aspects, some clubs playing older players with a focus on strictly winning, others using it as a means to promote their individual academies and some are just happy to be a small community Sunday league team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6479170 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6479170 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:23:00 EDT While it is still a select group who’ve continued to compete through the end of December and most of January, overall there were plenty of good results for Canadians across the pond this past weekend. Germany has been the spot where Canucks have been making their mark, but over the last month England has seen two players make headlines home and abroad. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6479169 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6479169 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:22:00 EDT New strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6479168 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6479168 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:19:00 EDT While there is no doubt Andrew Wenger, who was selected with the first overall pick in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft by the Montreal Impact, is an excellent player and young prospect, he still comes to La Belle Province with some uncertainty surrounding him. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6476828 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6476828 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:02:00 EDT Having the second overall selection in the 2012 SuperDraft, Vancouver were always at the mercy of the Impact regarding what direction they would head in terms of their pick. It was almost a given that Akron attacker Darren Mattocks and Duke's Andrew Wenger would go one-two, but with Montreal having the first choice the Whitecap's wants would be determined by Montreal's needs. In the end, the first pick was Wenger, a jack of all trades, and Vancouver wasted no time selecting one of the most prolific goal scorers out of Akron University, and the draft, in recent years. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6476827 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6476827 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:01:00 EDT Toronto FC entered the 2012 MLS SuperDraft with two first round draft picks in their pocket, and in typical fashion, Aron Winter and Paul Mariner surprised everyone with two unexpected selections. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6476826 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6476826 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EDT A common theme among the professional soccer players we work with at the Soccer Fitness Training Centre is that they arrive in Toronto over the December break with a limited amount of time, but still want to train intensely in order to go back to their clubs in January in better shape than they were when they left. This was certainly the case with Joseph Di Chiara, who plies his trade with Krylia Sovotev in the Russian Premier League, and is also presently a member of the Canadian Men’s senior National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6475686 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6475686 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:23:00 EDT Part Two of our draft day speculation takes us to Toronto FC's second pick in the first round, this one coming in at twelfth overall, and, if rumours are to be believed, the number 12 spot may hold a higher priority in Aron Winter's eyes than the previously mentioned number 4 pick. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6474745 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6474745 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:08:00 EDT On Sunday, Manchester United traveled the short distance to the Etihad Stadium and conquered their cross-city rivals Manchester City 3-2. The major talking point wasn’t Rooney’s opener: a neat, planted header into the top corner; nor was it City’s response: nearly leveling after going into the half-time break 3-0 down. It wasn’t even the return of 37 year-old Paul Scholes’s return to action for the Red Devils despite retiring in the summer. No, the major talking point of the 162nd Manchester derby is Chris Foy’s 12th minute dismissal of City captain Vincent Kompany. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6474743 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6474743 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:05:00 EDT With the 2011 draft having little to live up to compared to 2010, it has now been three years since what many call the best draft ever in the class of 2009. That year has seen seven of it’s top ten picks become solid MLS starters, with another handful beyond also proving to be first string caliber players. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6473839 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6473839 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:21:00 EDT New strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6473286 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6473286 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:28:00 EDT As one of the longest serving members of the Toronto FC organization, Senior Director of Business Operations Paul Beirne is well known to Toronto FC’s fan base and supporters. With the club since 2006, Beirne played a large part in the team’s initial breakout success in the Toronto market and his enthusiasm for the team, its fans and the entire experience has long been a hallmark of the organization’s communications and relationship with Toronto FC’s passionate fans. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6472794 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6472794 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:48:00 EDT On January 12, Major League Soccer kicks off the 2012 season with the annual MLS SuperDraft. In its thirteenth year, the SuperDraft presents the 19 MLS clubs with a unique opportunity at signing young, collegiate-level signings, along with South American talent making their way over to Major League Soccer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6472793 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6472793 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:47:00 EDT The waiting game continues for the majority of Canadians to commence the second half of their season, but in the meantime some names of note had productive games for their domestic clubs. Outside of the UK, Turkey and Australia, there was little to see in terms of Canucks competing, but with the FA Cup still in it’s early stages, nearly every club had a fixture, as well as the Scottish Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6472792 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6472792 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:46:00 EDT In a move that has not been officially announced as of yet, RedNation Online has learned that Dutch soccer coach Thomas Rongen is expected to be named as Toronto FC’s next Academy Director, succeeding Stuart Neely at a position that will be key towards the club realizing its youth player development goals in the coming years. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6470416 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6470416 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EDT For the Montreal Impact, the release of the MLS schedule answered some questions on the number of games played at the Olympic Stadium and also the opponents from the Western Conference who will come to La Belle Province in 2012. Here's a quick look at the Impact's schedule for 2012. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6470414 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6470414 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 23:01:00 EDT As soccer continues to build and grow in North America there is a premium put on young domestic talent. This has been recognized by Major League Soccer with initiatives such as MLS Combines, Super Drafts and home grown talent rules put in place. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6469687 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6469687 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:06:00 EDT Heading towards training camp, in preparation for their first season in North America's top flight, the Montreal Impact have already signed 2 Canadian players in Patrice Bernier and Greg Sutton. Under current MLS rules, it is still one less than the league minimum. The Impact have announced that they have given trials to 5 players who are considered by MLS as Canadians, all of whom played last year for the organization. They are: Reda Agourram, Simon Gatti, Mircea Ilcu, Nevio Pizzolitto and Eduardo Sebrango. One would have to guess that at least one of those players will be offered and sign a contract with the club, if not more. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6468551 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6468551 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to chat with Vancouver Whitecaps President Bob Lenarduzzi about several of his club’s main offseason developments, including the recent resignation of CEO Paul Barber, the acquisition of South Korean fullback Young-Pyo Lee and what the organization learned from its first year competing in Major League Soccer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6468550 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6468550 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EDT New strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6467482 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6467482 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 23:56:00 EDT So long 2011 and bring on 2012. Unfortunately as it is the winter season, most domestic leagues outside of North America are on a break and will not be starting up until later on in the month, or even early February. However, there was still significant action in the U.K. as both England and Scotland went through a slew of matches that will continue through this week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6467480 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6467480 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 23:55:00 EDT He was the toast of Vancouver for a large portion of last season for the Whitecaps. A giant, standing 6’4 and weighing in at 200 pounds. A complex myriad of tattoos adorned each of his arms. Eric Hassli had the look of a superstar, and in his first MLS match the talent was on display for all to see. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6467418 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6467418 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:04:00 EDT For better or worse! Many things happened of the course of 2011 for The Canadian Women's Natinal Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6466954 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6466954 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:54:00 EDT Another year has gone by in Canadian soccer, filled with highs and lows, but no doubt there was never any shortage of stories to cover, players to profile or matches to report on. It was a busy year that takes us in to 2012 with optimism that soccer in this nation is continuing to grow and make steps towards gaining widespread popularity. To finish off 2011 here at RedNation Online we called upon our team of writers to come up with their thoughts on the year that was and what they are looking towards in 2012. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6465658 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6465658 Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:11:00 EDT With the recent ousting of Steve Bruce from Sunderland after two wins in thirteen games of the 2011/12 Premier League campaign, and the seemingly inevitable sacking of Steve Kean by Blackburn Rovers’ chicken-abusing owners Venky’s, has it become necessary for a manager to be a novelty in order to be safe at a top-flight club? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6461525 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6461525 Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:15:00 EDT We've made our way to the final day, day 12 - Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, dear reader! Toronto FC has gone through many wishes, surrounding depth, player signings, style of play, academy infusion and even a roof! Today, on Christmas day, Toronto FC...give your 12th man pride! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6459532 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6459532 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 00:38:00 EDT We’re almost there! Eleven days of Christmas wishes for the Reds! We’ve gone through everything from depth, to goalkeeping, venues and menus, and Toronto FC’s successes in 2012. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6458621 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6458621 Sat, 24 Dec 2011 00:10:00 EDT The tenth day of Christmas comes with the news that Toronto FC have decided to use the Rogers Centre as their venue for the home leg against the Los Angeles Galaxy. So, on day ten, let’s all come together and ensure there are only ten empty seats at the dome! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6457656 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6457656 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 23:33:00 EDT In this interview, Philippe and RedNation discuss the state of the Montreal Impact Academy as the organization prepares to make its debut in Major League Soccer in 2012. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6457118 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6457118 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:28:00 EDT Our ninth day of Christmas brings us to the TFC Academy. It’s about time Toronto FC landed a young, on-fire Canadian striker to call their own. For the sake of the identity of the club, Toronto FC needs to find a forward from within the academy itself and make a hero out of the hometown footballer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6456599 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6456599 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:08:00 EDT Head coach John Herdman announced the 20-player squad that will compete for one of two berths to the 2012 London Olympics at the CONCACAF Women's Olympic Qualifiers in Vancouver. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6455940 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6455940 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:47:00 EDT Since joining Red Nation Online I’ve covered the topic of youth development in Canada fairly extensively and strive to “keep it real” on the subject whether my opinions are seen as overly positive/negative or neutral. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6455419 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6455419 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 23:18:00 EDT Day 8 of our Christmas special takes us to a very special day a few months from now – Toronto FC’s CONCACAF Champions League clash with the LA Galaxy in March. An 8-goal split between the LA Galaxy and Toronto FC gives both sets of supporters an entertaining, eventful series. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6455415 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6455415 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 23:14:00 EDT The Impact called for a major announcement Monday and they did not disappoint. Even though over the last year it felt unlikely that Patrice Bernier would become a member of the Impact, the club and local player have agreed to a contract. By signing Bernier, Montreal made their most significant move since they were announced as MLS’ 19th franchise and this is their biggest signing thus far for many reasons, both on and off the field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6454517 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6454517 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 23:35:00 EDT Oh, the seventh day is a day of reflection, where we stop looking forward and look back at the 2011 campaign. There were many bright spots in the team of 2011, but none shone quite as bright as Joao Plata, our little number 7. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6454512 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6454512 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 23:13:00 EDT The latest East Side Stand Up! strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453803 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453803 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:30:00 EDT In this interview, Joe and RedNation discuss Whitecaps CEO Paul Barber's recent resignation, the Whitecaps acquisition of South Korea International Lee-Young Pyo, the current state of Vancouver's back line, his relationship with fellow keeper Jay Nolly in 2011 and his first impressions of incoming Whitecaps Head Coach Martin Rennie. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453802 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453802 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:29:00 EDT Bellies full, Voyageurs Cup in hand, the sixth day at Toronto Football Club brings us to the transfer season. Silly season to some, the MLS transfer window is the time of the year when every single player departs from Toronto FC and heads for another team. This year, however, looks to be different. 
 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453757 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453757 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 02:15:00 EDT Things have slowed down considerably, as for many leagues the winter break is now in session, and for Canadians playing overseas the results matched as another weekend has gone by with few standout performances. There are still a strong group of Canucks who keep their spots in the starting eleven, continue to get minutes and whose team got the result needed, but few who made us stand up and take notice. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453756 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6453756 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 02:14:00 EDT Our fifth day in this football-inspired countdown brings us to the menu at BMO Field. Here are five changes to the menu at BMO Field, that will spread the greatest Christmas cheer of all – meat and beer: http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6452753 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6452753 Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:40:00 EDT Day Four brings back such good memories of years past: The miracle in Montreal in 2009, the lacklustre 2010 campaign with only seven goals scored, and, who can forget, the 2011 heartbreak of the Vancouver Whitecaps. Three years of Toronto FC trophy collecting in Canada’s most prestigious football competition, the Nutrilite Canadian Championship. On our fourth day, Toronto FC, we ask you for our fourth title.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6452086 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6452086 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 02:59:00 EDT Day Three of our Christmas countdown has arrived, and today, Stefan Frei and Milos Kocic require some company. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6450910 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6450910 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 23:17:00 EDT A versitile player, Jeremy Hall was acquired from FC Dallas at the end of November for a second round draft pick in the 2013 SuperDraft. Originally an 11th pick overall by the New York Red Bulls in 2009, Hall was a mainstay for his first two seasons before being traded to the Portland Timbers. In Portland, Hall also saw plenty of time on the pitch before being sent to FC Dallas midseason. As was the case throught the 2011 campaign for Toronto FC, it is not much of speculation that Aron Winter must have liked what he saw when TFC went up against FC Dallas and has looked to bring in another piece of the puzzle. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6450909 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6450909 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 23:16:00 EDT With a new roof firmly in place (I hope), our Christmas countdown continues. Toronto FC’s need for depth in all positions is the second wish of the holiday (off)season! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6450036 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6450036 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:38:00 EDT Last Wednesday, Toronto FC unveiled the signing of the wonderfully-named Reggie Lambe on a free transfer. The Bermudan winger’s contract at Ipswich Town expired over the summer and director of player development Paul Mariner, who scored nearly 100 goals for Ipswich Town during his playing career, revealed that Lambe had been on his radar for some time. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6449986 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6449986 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:19:00 EDT For a team that has only recently completed their first season of MLS play, the Vancouver Whitecaps haven't quite emulated Manchester United’s vibe of deep rooted tradition. The carousel that has been their management hasn’t exactly helped that either. Already going through two head coaches (and now on their third) after one season of work, and now CEO Paul Barber has recently stated his intention to step down in February. It doesn’t really scream stability to the supporters of the franchise. However, before fans of the boys in blue and white get too agitated after the most recent shake-up, the question needs to be asked, is the departure of Barber a good thing or a bad thing? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6449430 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6449430 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:23:00 EDT We kick off our 12 days of Christmas at Toronto FC with the grandest wish of all – a brand, spanking new roof over the 20,000-seat stadium we call home, BMO Field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6449047 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6449047 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 23:34:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, we kick off six weeks of guests sitting in for Paul. First up is former Canadian International and Vancouver Whitecaps defender Chris Williams, who discusses the recent purchase of MLSE by Rogers and Bell and the ramifications for Toronto FC. Chris also provides his analysis of the resignation of Vancouver Whitecaps CEO Paul Barber, the Whitecaps signing of South Korea International Lee-Young Pyo, Vancouver Head Coach Martin Rennie and Toronto FC's recent signing of winger Reggie Lambe. Lastly, Chris provides his picks for the Canadian players who shone the brightest in 2011. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6448104 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6448104 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:27:00 EDT East Side Stand Up! looks to take advantage...New strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6446978 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6446978 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 01:17:00 EDT It isn’t just the weather that turned cold this weekend, as for the second week in a row Canucks playing outside of North America struggled to have a significant impact, or be involved in any big games to note. After the second round of World Cup Qualifying, Canadians put out a series of excellent displays, with two weekends ago being one of the best in recent memory. As the mid-point of the season nears for many players, the long grind of a winter schedule is setting in. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6446962 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6446962 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 01:03:00 EDT Jaro Zawislan is the Head Coach of the Cornell men's soccer program. Over his first three years at the helm of the team he has turned around a struggling program and made it into a squad to be reckoned with at the U.S. Collegiate level. Originally a native of Poland, Zawislan immigrated to Canada with his family when he was 17 years old and later attended Clemson University, where he played on the men’s soccer team from 1990 to 1993. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6446920 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6446920 Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:50:00 EDT In this interview, Richard and RedNation discuss his first year on the job at the helm of the Whitecaps Residency Program, 17 year old Residency Graduate Bryce Alderson, what he looks for in terms of the players that he wants to bring into the Residency Program, Arsene Wenger’s recent contention that the next great players will come from Asia and the United States, the recent prevalence of Dutch coaches in Canada, and the importance of International competition for young developing players. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6443925 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6443925 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 03:52:00 EDT RedNation Online weigh in with their picks for the 2011 Canadian Men's and Women's Player of the Year. With the Canadian Soccer Association announcing their nominees for their 2011 Canadian player awards on Monday, the debate has begun as to who the ultimate winners will be. Canadian media and coaches will be asked to select two players - one male and one female – for the Canadian Soccer Association’s top prize, the Canadian Player of the Year award in the Male and Female categories. The award will celebrate Canada’s top two soccer players in recognition of their 2011 achievements with both the national team and their respective club teams. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6442707 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6442707 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:20:00 EDT In my role as Fitness Coach with the Canadian National Women’s U17 team, I was recently tasked with planning the physical component of their 8-day training camp in November, 2011. Upon reviewing the camp schedule, I saw that the plans included 2 exhibition games, 2 inter-squad games, and 2 training sessions per day over the course of the week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441829 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441829 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 02:49:00 EDT Earlier this week Toronto FC announced the club and Academy Director Stuart Neely have parted ways with the Scotsman resigning from his post. Even this has come as something of a shock with respect to how sudden it happened and with everyone from fans, players, club staff and parents of current/former players only having nice things to say about Neely, it does indicate that major changes are set to take place within the club’s youth development structure. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441809 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441809 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:39:00 EDT Back home in England, when the football season was over I was a grumpy individual. That late-May to mid-July neglect of football devotion often left me looking elsewhere for gratification. A six-week hunt for a new hobby, if you like. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441722 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441722 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 23:45:00 EDT In a move that had been rumoured over the past several weeks, Swedish Premier League side Örebro SK announced today that it has signed Canadian Goalkeeper Tomer Chencinski through the 2013 season for an undisclosed transfer fee. The 27 year old Chencinski makes the move to Sweden following a standout 2011 season with Vaasan Palloseura (VPS) in which he earned the Finnish club’s Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player Awards and finished the season 3rd in the league in Goals Against Average, giving up only 34 goals (4 from penalty kicks) in 28 matches. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441127 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6441127 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 09:24:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul provides his position opinions on the recent signal by Jonathan de Guzman that he would like play for Canada and the hiring of Nick Dasovic as the new Head Coach for the Canadian Men’s Under-20 national team. He also discusses Junior Hoilett and Stephen Hart and provides his picks for the Male and Female Canadian Players of the Year for 2011. Paul also breaks down the rumoured news that Toronto FC have re-signed Joao Plata and talks about the recent announcement that Terry Dunfield is recovering from hernia surgery. He also provides commentary on the resignation of Stuart Neely as TFC Academy Director, Toronto's recent acquisition of former FC Dallas defender Jeremy Hall and the Whitecaps trading of Shea Salinas to San Jose for allocation money. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6440791 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6440791 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 01:52:00 EDT No frills Canadian international defender David Edgar is currently plying his trade in the second tier of English football with Burnley. Known by many for his ability to play all along the backline as well as defensive midfield, Edgar is certainly one of the more versatile performers within the English game. It may be due to his adaptability that the Canadian had not until recently been able to make a position his own at Burnley, whether at the Premier League level or in the Championship. But recent months have seen Edgar playing more regularly at the club level and the player himself admits that he has been pleased to have had the opportunity to play more regularly at his natural position. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6440790 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6440790 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 01:50:00 EDT Last weekend would be a tough one to follow after a breakout series of performances, and it was much quieter this first week of December. However, with a few players still on the road to recovery, seasons’ coming to a close, the winter break looming, the continent was overall quieter than it had been since August. It wasn’t completely silent for Canucks overseas as several components to the National side still were able to get in and contribute to their club team’s results. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6440106 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6440106 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 09:20:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Josh discuss his current campaign with Turkish club Manisaspor, life on and off the pitch in Turkey, his evolution as a player over the course of his career, his thoughts on Canada’s next round of World Cup qualifying against Honduras, Panama and Cuba, and the recent news that Villareal attacking midfielder Jonathan de Guzman is interested in playing for Canada at the International level http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6439831 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6439831 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 03:32:00 EDT In 1977 Bobby Iarusci was on top of the world. At 21-years of age he had just completed his first professional season with Metros Croatia, played with the black panther of Portugal - the great Eusébio, was named the Rookie of the Year, and to top it all off, won an NASL championship in his home city of Toronto. Nothing could be finer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6439735 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6439735 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:14:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Jim discuss his playing career as a former Captain of Toronto FC, his current role as the Head Coach of the TFC Academy Junior team, the potential of the TFC Academy, Toronto FC Head Coach and Technical Director Aron Winter, TFC left back Ashtone Morgan, the current state of the Canadian Men’s National Team, Norwich City striker Simeon Jackson and the growth of soccer in Toronto and across Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6435978 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6435978 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:02:00 EDT Shea Salinas has been traded to the San Jose Earthquake for allocation money. Salinas, who began his career with San Jose wasn’t entirely surprised to hear the news. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6435912 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6435912 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:52:00 EDT One minute and thirty-one seconds was all it took to potentially shake up not only the Canadian Men’s National Team, but the CONCACAF region as well. In a short excerpt of an interview with Julian De Guzman on The Score, James Sharman asks the question that has been posed, and politely dodged, so many times before. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6434978 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6434978 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 01:29:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul breaks down Montreal's picks in the MLS Expansion Draft, touts their acquisitions of Donovan Ricketts and Davy Arnaud and discusses Brian Ching's unhappiness around being selected in the Expansion Draft. He also discusses the Expansion Draft from the standpoint of Toronto FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps and talks about the player that Montreal will be getting in Jeb Brovsky. Paul also provides his analysis of the recent rumour that Toronto FC are considering bringing former TFC midfielder Pablo Vitti back to the team and discusses where the MLS ranks in the global football pecking order. In a discussion centred on youth player development, Paul discusses the pros and cons of staying in North America versus going to Europe and provides his thoughts on a recent RedNation interview with Bobby Graham of the Winstars Soccer Consulting and Academy. Lastly, Paul answers a question submitted by a listener pertaining to his recent comments about Stephen Hart following the Canadian Men's National Team's lacklustre draw on the road against St. Kitts and Nevis in World Cup Qualifying and ends the podcast with a passionate defense of the enduring value that former National Team Coaches can bring to the Canadian soccer system. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6434028 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6434028 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:28:00 EDT Believe it or not but we are roughly four months away from our Canadian U23 squad taking part in the 2012 CONCACAF Men’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament. In the process they are not only looking to book a place to London 2012, but break what would be a 28 year (or 6 Olympics) run of non-qualification. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6433947 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6433947 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 23:04:00 EDT With the expansion draft behind them and the recent release of seven players deemed surplus to requirements, the Toronto FC brain trust of Aron Winter, Bob de Klerk and Paul Mariner can now start the process of continuing to improve their squad towards a crucial 2012 campaign in which the club absolutely must qualify for the MLS Playoffs. And while Winter and company did a very good job of reworking their roster during the 2011 season into one better suited for the team's newfound Dutch tactical approach, it's hard not to see how financial constraints will test the creativity and expertise of the trio and limit their ability to make the types of necessary player acquisitions which are needed if the team is to continue its upward ascent next season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6433294 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6433294 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:52:00 EDT Looking forward to a short off-season at East Side Stand Up! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6433037 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6433037 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 01:26:00 EDT Toronto FC needs a new CB. That much is clear. As a lifelong Toronto FC fan, this has not always been a problem. I remember a day where Toronto FC had consistent CBs that did their job well and were of the highest quality possible. These CBs may not have been the flashiest, or the most expensive, but they were up to par, good enough for Toronto FC and their high standards. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6432969 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6432969 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 23:32:00 EDT With nothing else to focus on other than domestic football, Canadians competing outside of North America put forth one of the most productive weekends in recent memory. A slew of Canucks got their name on the scoresheet and played important roles in their club’s results this weekend with a handful of notable results. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6432968 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6432968 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 23:32:00 EDT With the results that the Canadian Women's National Team have been securing in the past couple of months, players and fans alike can attest that the team is making great progress in preparation for the 2012 CONCACAF Women's Olympic Qualifiers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6431062 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6431062 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:11:00 EDT The Winstars Soccer Consulting and Academy focuses on professionally-centered soccer development, preparing elite players for U.S.- Collegiate and worldwide pro-league competitions. Academy Director Bobby Graham is one of the more knowledgeable coaches on the North American soccer scene and he was gracious enough to take the time to chat with us about coaching, the development options available to young Canadian players and the general state of youth player development in Canada today. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430797 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430797 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 23:56:00 EDT Jesse Marsch and the Montreal Impact appear to be clearly defining their approach to their first season through the expansion draft. Looking at the players that have been brought in thus far, and now with the ten new faces (give or take) yesterday, it will be encouraging as an Impact supporter to see they are taking no chances and look to be shoring up every position as early as possible. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430347 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430347 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 09:16:00 EDT Sepp Blatter, president of FIFA since 1998, offended many last week after his comments to CNN about racism on the football pitch. “There is no racism,” he claimed on the same day Liverpool’s Luis Suarez was charged with racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra. "There is maybe one of the players towards another - he has a word or a gesture which is not the correct one. But the one who is affected by that, he should say: 'This is a game. We are in a game, and at the end of the game, we shake hands.'” http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430089 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430089 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:21:00 EDT RedNation and Randy discuss his recent signing with Bundesliga 2 side Eintracht Braunschweig, his prolific goalscoring with Finnish Second Division team AC Oulu, his experiences with the Vancouver Whitecaps and the Whitecaps Residency Program and his thoughts on possible future call-ups by the Canadian Men’s National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430075 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6430075 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul speaks at length regarding the Canadian Men's National Team as he breaks down Canada's 4-0 victory over St. Kitts in World Cup Qualifying, discusses the potential and merits of David Edgar, Adam Straith, Ashtone Morgan, Nik Ledgerwood and Tosaint Ricketts, and provides his thoughts on Dwayne De Rosario's achievement of tying Dale Mitchell as Canada's All Time Leading Scorer. He also discusses the recent announcement that De Rosario has been named as the first ever Canadian player to win the MLS MVP award and gives his commentary on the Los Angeles Galaxy's 1-0 win over the Houston Dynamo in the MLS Cup final. Lastly, in some interesting Vancouver Whitecaps talk, Paul discusses the signing of Bryce Alderson, the possible conversion of Gershon Koffie to a right back and how the Major League Soccer move to an unbalanced schedule should benefit a Whitecaps side that endured a very heavy travel load during their first season in the league. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6429050 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6429050 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:27:00 EDT With a genuine feeling of optimism permeating everyone around Toronto FC these days, the team’s original Designated Player signing, Julian de Guzman, is a veteran player who can provide a unique perspective on the transformation the team has made under Head Coach and Technical Director Aron Winter. With De Guzman’s tenure with TFC having been one of a rollercoaster variety in which he has dealt with injuries, coaching changes and all different types of organizational drama since he joined the team in summer of 2009, RedNation recently caught up with the long time Canadian International to discuss the current state of Toronto FC and his present mindset as a player with the club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6429011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6429011 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 23:13:00 EDT Major League Soccer’s annual tradition of dumping a 500-piece box of Legos on top of fans’ heads and telling them to make something of it (I refer, of course, to the MLS Expansion Draft) is well on its way once again! This time, the lucky expansion side is the Montreal Impact, another Canadian team making their way to the big leagues. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6428307 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6428307 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 09:31:00 EDT Major League Soccer today released the list of players that each club has protected and left unprotected for the upcoming expansion draft that the Montreal Impact will use to build their team for their first year in the league. For Toronto FC supporters there were a few surprises, as Terry Dunfield, Ty Harden and Andy Iro were all among the eleven players that TFC have protected for draft that will be held on Wednesday, November 23rd. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6428306 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6428306 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 09:29:00 EDT There weren’t many shocking decisions made when the Vancouver Whitecaps announced their list of protected players today. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6428304 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6428304 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 09:29:00 EDT In my last article I mentioned in passing that we as a soccer nation are too dependent on the US colligate system (NCAA) to develop our players and don’t take into account what we have to offer, which is mainly Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) soccer. In this article I wanted to expand on an idea that would involve all Canadian MLS and NASL clubs, which could ultimately end up deepening the Canadian soccer talent pool and shaping the way we think about youth development in Canada going forward, however before I get to that let me give a little background. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6427203 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6427203 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:22:00 EDT Hindsight is always 20/20, but the recent announcements that the MLS have made with their end of season awards have actually very much been an indightment of many of the past decisions that Toronto FC have made in their first five seasons in the league. While the Reds undoubtedly made progress under Aron Winter in 2011, the last couple of weeks have highlighted five very different types of decisions made by previous General Manager Mo Johnston and the organization that have again placed TFC into a somewhat negative light. While the mistakes described herein were not made by the current Toronto management team, Winter, De Klerk and Mariner would do well to learn from the mistakes made by their predecessors. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6427202 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6427202 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:19:00 EDT Now that the second round of World Cup Qualifying is over and done with, Canadians competing off the continent return to their clubs and can focus on their domestic seasons for the next six months. Overall it was positive to see that the majority of those who participated in the two games against St.Kitts were rewarded with significant playing time this weekend and some becoming an integral part of their club’s result. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6427201 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6427201 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:18:00 EDT East Side Stand Up takes a shot at FIFA big man Sepp Blatter. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6426975 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6426975 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 02:21:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Tomer discuss his recently completed breakthrough campaign with VPS in Finland, his future goals as a player on the rise in Europe, his previous experiences with his former club in Moldova and with his hometown side Toronto FC, his aspirations with respect to possibly playing for Canada at the International level and his current off-season training regimen now that he is back in Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6426961 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6426961 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 01:56:00 EDT Don Garber gets perhaps one last kick at the can to prove bringing David Beckham was all worth it in the end. In Los Angeles, with names like Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane in tow, the Beckham Experiment could very well be considered a success if the LA Galaxy are able to take out the Houston Dynamo Sunday night. Of course this will be no easy task as Houston have shown their mettle against two high flying attacks to get to this point but will need to overcome the loss of stalwart midfielder Brad Davis, who succumbed to an injury in the Conference Finals. With Davis available, while they would still be underdogs, Houston had a fighting chance, but without him it now seems very unlikely that the Dynamo will be able to finish off their storybook campaign and the Don will finally be able to see number 23 lift the MLS Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6424830 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6424830 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:31:00 EDT There has been a lot of talk about how it would be unprecedented for a player who has featured on three clubs to be voted for MLS Most Valuable Player. I’m going to tell you right now that that should not factor in any significant way into voting for Dwayne De Rosario for MLS MVP. Why? Because there’s plenty of players who stuck on one club throughout the year that will not and should not be considered for the award. If you cannot use the number of clubs to decide who should win, then you cannot reasonably use it as a way of excusing a player. It makes absolutely no sense to do so, especially when the Most Valuable Player award is really an award for individual achievement amongst a player during the MLS season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6424434 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6424434 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:48:00 EDT With the Canadian Men’s National Team having completed their initial round of World Cup qualifying with a statement victory over St. Kitts and Nevis at BMO Field in Toronto on Tuesday night, the Canadian Soccer Association has released the dates for the six matches that Canada will play in the next round of qualifying. A quick look at the home and away dates against Canada’s three opponents suggest that the Canadian team has once again come out a little bit lucky in terms of the fixture schedule that has been mandated by FIFA. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6424145 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6424145 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:02:00 EDT There is a genuine sense of optimism surrounding TFC that has not been felt since the end of 2008 and heading into the 2009 campaign. The signs are there that should the club make the proper moves and continue on what appears to be the right path, the team will finally have the breakthrough in the league that has eluded them for the last five years. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6423035 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6423035 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:06:00 EDT Canada finishes the second round nearly through the same scoreline that they opened it, but in between two four goal home displays, gave supporters plenty to discuss in terms of their chances for round three. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6423034 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6423034 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:06:00 EDT The Canadian National Team entered their final match in the second round of World Cup with a spot in the next round already clinched, but also with all kinds of pressure hanging over them due to the lacklustre performance they delivered in St. Kitts last Friday. Canada Head Coach Stephen promised Canadian supporters ahead of the match that they would see a different Canadian team at BMO Field and also hinted that he was going to make fairly significant lineup changes for the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6422039 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6422039 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 02:21:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul pulls no punches in assessing Canada's lacklustre performance in World Cup qualifying against St. Kitts and looks forward to the big challenges the team will face in the next round against higher quality opposition. He also discusses the recent announcement by former Vancouver Whitecaps and Montreal Impact player David Testo, who has joined the rare group of professional athletes who have announced publicly that they are gay. Paul also talks about the MLS Cup Final, touts the success of Andre Hainault and the Houston Dynamo and explains why staying with the Los Angeles Galaxy is the best option for global superstar David Beckham. Lastly, Paul provides his opinions on which players Toronto FC should protect in the upcoming MLS Expansion Draft. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420889 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420889 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 01:18:00 EDT Ever since Stephen Hart took over as full-time head coach of the senior men's national team in December 2009, he has been candid in stating that one of his main goals was to build more depth at each position in Canada’s player pool. Approaching two years into his reign, Hart has indeed increased the depth at most positions on his squad, with obvious examples being the addition of keeper Milan Borjan as a vital addition at a crucial position, Ashtone Morgan bringing some much needed youth to the left back spot, Tosaint Ricketts looking very dangerous up top and talented defenders Adam Straith and David Edgar injecting new blood into the back line. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420861 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420861 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 23:38:00 EDT Group D is all locked up, yet the pressure is still on for Canada as they host St.Kitts in their final match of the second round of World Cup Qualifying. Despite advancing, few are celebrating a 0-0 draw against the 109th ranked team in a match that provided more signs of concern than confidence http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420825 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420825 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 23:14:00 EDT Everybody that talks to Nana Attakora these days seems solely preoccupied with asking him about where he is going to play his club soccer next season, while the player himself is fully focused on a different area of his career. According to the 22 year Toronto native, he is completely concentrated on getting back to full physical and match fitness and he’s grateful for the opportunity that the current Canadian National Team call up has afforded him in that regard. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420039 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6420039 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:37:00 EDT The Canadian Men’s National Team returned to the training pitch on Sunday in advance of the team’s home fixture and final second round World Cup qualifying match against St. Kitts and Nevis at BMO Field on Tuesday. While Canada has already clinched Group D and booked a spot in the next round, Head Coach Stephen Hart was adamant that Tuesday’s game is anything but meaningless. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419990 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419990 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 07:48:00 EDT East Side Stand Up! looks to celebrate the final Toronto FC match until next spring. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419671 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419671 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:12:00 EDT In this article I want uncover an issue I have with MLS in regards to Canadian Soccer and Youth Development, show the pros and cons of both the two current short term options being the Canadian Soccer League and MLS Reserve League, and spotlight the desperate need for the recent viability study outsourced by the Canadian Soccer Association to be conducted over the next several months to really get the ball rolling on a Canadian Second Division. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419661 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419661 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 23:37:00 EDT The Montreal Impact are making their way over to the greenest possible pastures in North American soccer – Major League Soccer. The 19th team in MLS and the newest expansion franchise enters the league with a group of supporters who have already shown they have what it takes to emulate, replicate, and, maybe, trump (!) the likes of Portland, Vancouver and, well, that other Canadian team, Toronto FC.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419655 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419655 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 23:36:00 EDT n Northwich Victoria assistant Andy Morrison’s book we learn, or have it confirmed, that the bloke is quite insane. On the pitch the Scot was the quintessential defensive captain: his leadership skills inspired a young Manchester City team from the third tier to the Premier League, despite being of average height he was colossal in the air, and his passion ensured he was a fan favourite at the four teams he played at most regularly (Plymouth Argyle, Blackpool, Huddersfield Town and Manchester City). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419654 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6419654 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 23:35:00 EDT Canada has kept a clean sheet for two games in a row, however, that is negated by the fact they themselves have been unable to score in two games against competition who they should have found a way to put one in the net. Here are the player grades from their away match in St.Kitts. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6418039 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6418039 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 10:53:00 EDT It’s a job done. They did what they had to do. Needing a point, the Canadian men’s soccer team did just enough to salvage a 0-0 draw against St. Kitts and Nevis at Warner Park in Basseterre, St. Kitts. They got off to a good enough start. In the opening minutes, Canada’s passing was textbook stuff as they were easily knocking the ball around their less-fancied opposition. But as often happens with Canadian soccer teams, the chances created weren’t converted. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6417657 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6417657 Sat, 12 Nov 2011 00:53:00 EDT Just one point away from advancing, Canada’s soccer team took to the pitch in their one training session at Warner Park Thursday morning. Under humid, muggy conditions, the team kept their session light as the day before the game is really meant to get a feel for the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6416309 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6416309 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:53:00 EDT With the Canadian Men's National Team needing only a single point in their final two second round group stage matches against St. Kitts and Nevis to clinch their group and move on to the next round of World Cup qualifying, Head Coach Stephen Hart is focused solely on Friday's fixture in St. Kitts. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6416034 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6416034 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:25:00 EDT Let’s get one thing straight. Although I would have believed it if it were true, Warner Park in Basseterre, St. Kitts is NOT named after former CONCACAF head honcho Jack Warner. It’s in fact named for Thomas Warner, who helped establish the first British Colony in the Caribbean there in 1623. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6415610 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6415610 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:16:00 EDT In Part 1 of this 2-part article, we examined the science behind the Soccer Fitness Goalkeeper-Specific Training Protocols. Plyometric exercises, which form the foundation of most traditional sport-specific strength and power programs, are also the key feature of our Goalkeeper-Specific Protocols. In Part 2 of this article, we will review some specific examples of the plyometric exercises themselves. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6413794 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6413794 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 01:34:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul provides his thoughts on Canada's roster for the team's World Cup qualifying matches against St. Kitts and Nevis, the return of Patrice Bernier to the National Team fold and the recent decision by defender Andre Hainault to turn down a call-up in order to focus on the MLS Playoffs with his club team, the Houston Dynamo. He also discusses Toronto FC's decision to release Demetrius Omphroy and Matt Gold, TFC's apparent move away from NCAA players in favour of developing their own players via their Academy system and why the college system is still a vital mechanism for both the MLS and the players in the league. Paul also provides his pick for which CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal opponent would provide Toronto with the best chance to move to the semi-finals of the competition and explains why TFC should play their home Champions League fixture in March at the Rogers Centre. Lastly, he provides his analysis of Martin Rennie's first weeks on the job as Head Coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps, the Caps decision to re-sign Atiba Harris and the importance of Vancouver retaining the services of Camilo in 2012. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6412626 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6412626 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EDT With the MLS expansion draft looming, the Vancouver Whitecaps have some serious decisions to make. They could lose a player in the draft, and they essentially have eleven players they can make “safe”, as in, they cannot be chosen. So who do the Whitecaps protect? For starters, not every player is eligible to be snookered away from the Caps in the draft. Some players fall under certain exempt categories, and therefore cannot be taken. Those players include Phillipe Davies, Michael Nanchoff, Nizar Khalfan, Omar Salgado, Brian Sylvestre and Russell Teibert. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6412541 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6412541 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 22:41:00 EDT Last week I wrote an article on Toronto FC Academy and possible candidates for the next graduating class, so with the Montréal Impact coming into Major League Soccer next season I’ve decided to do something similar showcasing some of the talented players that could get a call up. However, the situation is a little different in Montréal as they are not only an expansion side having to go through an Expansion Draft, Re-Entry Draft and the MLS Super Draft. They are also going under stadium renovations as well as being coached by a former MLS veteran and first time coach Jesse Marsch who is part of former US National Team Coach Bob Bradley's coaching tree as one of his assistants. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411322 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411322 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 23:33:00 EDT It was the last set of fixtures before the international break and throughout the recently announced squad for the two games against St. Kitts, the called-up players all made appearances to head into the qualifiers in game shape. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411321 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411321 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 23:32:00 EDT New East Stand Up! strip by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411320 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411320 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 23:26:00 EDT One of the most exciting aspects of the Toronto FC squad that ended the 2011 season was the positional flexibility of the majority of the players who were on the roster in the final months of the campaign. While the fluidity of Torsten Frings, who switched regularly from playing in the midfield to leading the backline, was the most highlighted instance of this characteristic, forward Ryan Johnson just might the player who best exemplifies both the flexibility that Head Coach Aron Winter had when filling out his starting lineup and that core philosophy of Dutch football in which players switch positions on the fly during the run of the play. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411305 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411305 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 23:13:00 EDT Calgary born Canadian International Issey Nakajima-Farran is a player who highlights the truly global industry that is professional soccer. At 27 years old he has played professionally in Japan, Singapore and Denmark and recently made his debut with Australian powerhouse the Brisbane Roar. At the International level, Issey has been capped 24 times and has competed all over the world with Canada in a national team career in which he has represented his country in three CONCACAF Gold Cup tournaments and played in four FIFA World Cup qualification matches. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411304 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6411304 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 23:12:00 EDT My fellow RedNation Online contributor Ian Clarke recently asked me what I thought Toronto FC’s most important initiative was over the course of the last five years. Which initiative would bring Toronto FC the most success in the long run? I must admit, it had me stumped for a moment, but I think it’s safe to say, one little detail of Toronto FC’s academy will end up being the most crucial structure for future success. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6410178 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6410178 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 23:20:00 EDT After the first leg of the MLS Conference Semi Finals, everything looked to be on course for the top seeds to make their way to the next round, save for the Seattle Sounders. One of the best road teams, and the first team to deal Real Salt Lake their first home loss in MLS play in over thirty games, could not replicate that and found themselves down 3-0. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6410177 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6410177 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 23:19:00 EDT Canadian head coach Stephen Hart is only making a token few changes over last month’s squad as Canada prepares for their final two games of the second round of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6407185 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6407185 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:06:00 EDT A Monday 24th October in Manchester. The afternoon’s weather is surprisingly good, but the streets are quiet with City and United fans nursing their post-derby hangovers (for very different reasons) in offices, shops and bars. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6406646 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6406646 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:20:00 EDT As another year passes by the unfortunate tradition in Toronto has become looking back on the season, the club and it's players, while 8-10 other teams continue on into the playoffs. For the last half decade, TFC own the distinction of being the only MLS club to miss out of the post-season five years in a row. However, it is not like 2007-2011 has been boring, and quite the contrary there has rarely been a dull moment, well, outside of the playing field at least. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6406265 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6406265 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:35:00 EDT When 55,571 loud and passionate Montreal-ers crammed into the Olympic Stadium for a soccer game on February 25th, 2009, something happened in Canadian soccer that has yet to be duplicated in Canadian. It wasn’t an international friendly featuring some of the biggest names in the game—the fans were there to cheer on their own, local team in the CONCACAF Champions League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6406168 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6406168 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:07:00 EDT One of the most common post season topics that have been covered by a number of writers as they have looked back on the season that was for Toronto FC has been the emergence of the talented young players on the team and the hope that those youngsters provide the club with, both now and in the future. And while Joao Plata, Ashtone Morgan, Matt Stinson and Doneil Henry deserve all of the kudos and plaudits they have been receiving for their impressive 2011 campaigns, one young player who is often consistently left out when the discussion centers on Toronto’s young talent is Nick Soolsma. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403989 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403989 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:16:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul provides his thoughts on MLS Golden Boot Winner Dwayne De Rosario and D.C. United's intention to sign him as a Designated Player and pulls no punches in talking about the Vancouver Whitecaps recent firings of Assistant Coaches Colin Miller and Denis Hamlett. He also breaks down Vancouver's 2011 roster and provides his opinions around how the Whitecaps should retool for 2012. Paul also discusses the Toronto FC goalkeeping situation with Stefan Frei and Milos Kocic, the fact that the majority of MLS players are often left in precarious situations due to the prevalence of team options and non-guaranteed contracts with the league, and the comments of Aron Winter, Paul Mariner and Bob De Klerk at TFC's end of season media event. Lastly, Paul provides his thoughts on the Canadian Women's National Team's victory over Brazil and their Gold Medal at the Pan American games, as well as the no nonsense manner in which Head Coach John Herdman has been leading his squad. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403732 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403732 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:57:00 EDT While many Canadian soccer fans are likely less enthused to follow the 2011 MLS Playoffs than they would be if either Toronto FC or the Vancouver Whitecaps had qualified, the post season is not completely lacking in Canadian content. Canadian International Will Johnson played ninety minutes as Real Salt Lake took a commanding lead in the home leg of their Western Conference semifinal against the Seattle Sounders with a 3-0 home win last Saturday. And Houson central defender Andre Hainault was also a key performer in the Dynamo's 2-1 win at PPL Park in the opening leg of their Eastern Conference semifinal, as the Quebec born Canadian Men's National Team centre back scored the opening goal in the 5th minute of the match. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403597 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403597 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 23:48:00 EDT With the emergence of Doneil Henry, Ashtone Morgan and Matt Stinson during this past season combined with the continued development of players like Oscar Cordon and Keith Makubuya, as well as the hopeful return from injury of Nicholas Lindsay, the relative infancy of Toronto FC Academy is already starting to bear fruit. And with the new Academy facilities in the Downsview area set to open in June/July of 2012, it’s sure to only be the beginning. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403593 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6403593 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 23:48:00 EDT New East Side Stand Up! strip now up...by Paul Marhue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6402585 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6402585 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:28:00 EDT Another week, and another fairly positive series of appearances, performances and results for Canadians plying their trade in outside of the Americas. As November 11 and 15 approach, keeping an eye on the players who have been key to the first set of World Cup Qualifying results, as well as some who might be able to justify a call-up either in two weeks or next summer, is important to determine who can be depended on to finish off the round on top. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6402119 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6402119 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:22:00 EDT Calling soccer by it's worldwide name, football, can be a confusing affair in North America. Round ball or pointy ball? Now with MLS introducing Wild Card playoff spots, well, that certainly doesn't help distinguishing the two and all that is left to do is mandating cheerleaders and starting the season in September. The first ever set of Wild Card matches that salvaged the seasons of New York and Columbus are out of the way and now we can get down to the business of Conference Semi-Finals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6400660 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6400660 Sat, 29 Oct 2011 18:44:00 EDT For the first time in an 11 year career in which he has established himself as one of Major League Soccer's all time great players Dwayne De Rosario has now won the MLS Golden Boot as the top scorer in the North American top flight. And with many prognosticators having predicted before the 2011 season that the 33 year forward/midfielder surely had to be starting on the beginning of his decline as a player now in his thirties, the Canadian International has one again proven his detractors wrong, not only with the Golden Boot award, but also with the fact that he is once again a favourite to take home the Major League Soccer MVP award. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6399203 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6399203 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 15:04:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Patrice discuss his current campaign with Danish side Lyngby, his current fitness following a pair of injuries that kept him off the pitch for a significant amount of time, Canada’s recent World Cup qualifying matches, the key factors related to being successful in the CONCACAF region and the qualities that Quebec native Olivier Occean brings to the Canadian National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6398402 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6398402 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 03:34:00 EDT A month or two ago, RedNationOnline were told that they were nominated for a Canadian Online Publishing award. It was quite a feat: alongside RNO in the best online-only news publication website was The Tyee, the Vancouver Observer and CBC News, who have a bottomless pit of cash. I, by contrast, wear trousers to work where I have ingeniously stapled a pocket back together. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6397171 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6397171 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:20:00 EDT With Ashtone Morgan winning a starting spot with Toronto FC in 2011, Matt Stinson impressing at a number of positions throughout the year and Doneil Henry earning plaudits for shutting down Brek Shea in a win or your eliminated Champions League match, the 2011 Toronto FC campaign that has just concluded was very much a season long story that could have been titled "The Kids are all right". http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6396546 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6396546 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:37:00 EDT While it has been easy to have been impressed with the on the pitch performances of 2011 Toronto FC rookies like Ashtone Morgan, Doneil Henry, Joao Plata and Matt Stinson, another positive has to be character and professionalism that these players have shown off the pitch and with the media during a grueling and busy season that has just concluded. And with Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter having put such a premium on the importance of team leaders over the last several months, Stinson in particular has looked very much like a young player who could evolve into future leader for his hometown side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6396534 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6396534 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:28:00 EDT The goalkeeper position has always presented unique challenges to soccer fitness coaches. While some of the physical attributes required of goalkeepers are similar to those required of players (strength, speed, jumping power) the actual energy system(s) used by goalkeepers in match play are completely different, and thus require specific training exercises to produce specific adaptations that will improve performance. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6395117 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6395117 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 03:15:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul provides his thoughts on Toronto FC's huge victory over FC Dallas to earn a spot in the Knockout stage of the CONCACAF Champions League and whether or not that achievement will buoy attendance and fan interest for TFC as the team heads into a crucial year in 2012. He also provides his thoughts on Toronto's underwhelming performance in their final league match against New England, gives his opinion on a much debated recent article on TFC in the Toronto Star by Cathal Kelly and highlights the importance of bringing Joao Plata back to Toronto next season. Paul also provides his assessment of Vancouver's loss to Colorado in their season finale, speculates on the absence of Eric Hassli from that game and discusses whether or not Whitecaps fans should be concerned by the manner in which Martin Rennie's 2011 Carolina squad struggled down the stretch and in the playoffs. Lastly, Paul provides his picks for his favourites and dark horse teams for the 2011 MLS Cup and discusses the historical and future ramifications of the MLS coming to Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6393568 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6393568 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:13:00 EDT The 13th edition of the Canadian Soccer League Final sees newly formed Capital City FC take on Toronto Croatia looking to win their fourth Givova Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6393251 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6393251 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:31:00 EDT The Whitecaps marched into their final match of their inaugural MLS season on Saturday evening, taking on the Colorado Rapids. It was the tale of two teams going in opposite directions. The Whitecaps, long out of playoff contention were simply looking to finish the season on a high note; and for some players, they were playing for their jobs. For the Rapids, a win meant home pitch for their wild card match next week. Remember how I said jobs were on the line? With the expansion draft looming, players that enjoy Vancouver and aren’t keen on moving again certainly had to have that light a fire underneath them. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6392378 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6392378 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:01:00 EDT New East Side Stand Up! strip by Paul Marhue for October 24, 2011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391889 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391889 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:45:00 EDT With Toronto FC left back Ashtone Morgan having enjoyed a breakthrough season in his first season as a professional, the 20 year old Toronto native is quick to admit that he is both excited for next season while at the same admitting that it would be just fine with him if the 2011 season did not end at all. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391883 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391883 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:25:00 EDT With Toronto FC having ended their season on a high by qualifying for the knockout stage of the CONCACAF Champions League last Tuesday, some pundits are calling that win a watershed moment, while others are taking a more wait and see approach to stating that TFC have finally turned a corner towards a winning tradition. With that debate in mind, Toronto FC Designated Player Torsten Frings met with the Toronto media for the final time in 2011 following Saturday’s 2-2 draw with New England and the former German International and Bundesliga Champion was very confident in stating that Toronto FC have indeed entered a new era in the history of the club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391882 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391882 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:25:00 EDT Armen Bedakian looks at Toronto FC's last two results and how different they were. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391881 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391881 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:24:00 EDT And with a fairly muted performance, the Vancouver Whitecaps inaugural campaign in the MLS has come to a close with a whisper rather than a bang. In many ways, this match represented a microcosm of Vancouver’s season, with the team in the match, but falling short by a goal and delivering a performance in which the back line struggled while the service to the forwards up top was less than required. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391869 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391869 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:23:00 EDT It ought to have been expected there would have been somewhat of a hangover from Tuesday night. However, there was still hope that TFC would have seen New England as wounded prey and come out ready to go for the kill. Instead, with the game really meaning nothing, Toronto went through the motions and almost finished their campaign losing all their momentum gained over the last two months. In the end they gave the home support a last minute goal to cheer about and hope for next season the team is on the right track. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391868 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391868 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:22:00 EDT As November approaches and the final matches of the Second Round of World Cup Qualifying near, it is good to see weekends like this where for the most part, Canadians playing in Europe saw significant minutes for their club teams. There are still a small handful that raise concern as you want to biggest names playing at the highest level to be seeing the pitch week in week out, but there was enough through October 23 to remain positive about. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391865 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6391865 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:21:00 EDT Fresh off what is pretty much universally being called Toronto FC’s best performance ever in their 3-0 Champions League win over Dallas last Tuesday, the Reds arrived back home at BMO Field for their final match of the 2011 Major League Soccer season against the New England Revolution. With the Revolution sitting last overall in the MLS standings, Toronto was certainly positioned to end their season on a high note, which is something TFC Head Coach Aron Winter has been preaching over the last few days. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6390768 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6390768 Sat, 22 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EDT This weekend marks the finales for many of the teams in the 2011 MLS season. Unfortunately yet somewhat predictably, the Vancouver Whitecaps are one of those sides. In a year that has seen them go through a coaching change, face a number of injuries to key personnel, as well the early season disciplinary woes of one of their top strikers, the playoffs just wasn’t in the cards for this expansion club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6389507 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6389507 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 19:21:00 EDT Toronto FC are back home for their final match of the 2011 campaign, and there is no opponent more fitting than the New England Revolution. Five years ago to wrap up TFC’s first ever season, the Revolution came to BMO Field and in the dying seconds Danny Dichio added another classic moment to his career in the red and white to level the score at 2-2. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6388733 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6388733 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:17:00 EDT I’ve done something incredibly stupid: I’ve agreed to grow a moustache during November to boost awareness of prostate cancer. I’m definitely not moaning about the charitable side of things – I’ve known people affected by this disease and will unfortunately learn to know more – It’s just that I will look a complete and utter fool. I’m no Magnum. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6387262 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6387262 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:43:00 EDT Toronto FC’s win over FC Dallas to advance past the group stage had a profound impact tonight. It changed the way I looked upon this season. For me, the majority of TFC’s season has been a miserable disappointment, lurching from one failure to another. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6386062 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6386062 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:26:00 EDT There might be only one other match that could top the display seen on Tuesday night. TFC came into Pizza Hut Park ready and focused to see this game through and leave it all on the pitch. In the end, all the risks taken and strategy executed by Aron Winter on Saturday to rest key players paid off as he hit the jackpot earning a point in Philadelphia and having a side who were fully rested and prepared to win against Dallas. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6385558 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6385558 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 09:34:00 EDT Aron Winter reverted to a 4-2-3-1 shape for this crucial Champions League match, abandoning the 3-4-3 formation he’d been using in recent weeks to some degree of success. Meanwhile, FC Dallas lined up in their familiar fluid formation where the only real constants were the back four with Daniel Hernandez just ahead of them and Andrew Jacobson providing additional support. Their front four was extremely fluid and it almost makes no sense to try and label them in a diagram. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6385103 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6385103 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 02:50:00 EDT This match was billed as the biggest in the short history of Toronto FC and, while that might have sounded like hyperbole to some, the statement really did set the stage for TFC’s second last game of 2011 pretty adequately. With the Reds having missed out on the playoffs for the fifth straight year, this match offered Toronto something of an opportunity to salvage their season and to give their supporters a sign that the team has genuinely turned a corner with their improved recent form. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6385033 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6385033 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 01:50:00 EDT Paul breaks down Canada's disappointing 0-0 draw with Puerto Rico in World Cup Qualifying, explains how he would have attacked a team playing ten men back, picks his Man of the Match for Canada against Puerto Rico and touts the merits of young forward Tosaint Ricketts. He also provides his analysis of the Vancouver Whitecaps recent two game win streak and their recent loss to Dallas, which meant that the club has gone winless on the road in their first season in the MLS. And ahead of Toronto's crucial CONCACAF Champions League fixture against FC Dallas, Paul provides his analysis of the Texan's performance against Vancouver, Toronto's very positive showing in a 1-1 road draw against Philadelphia and discusses the positive news that came last week in the form of Toronto FC breaking ground on a multimillion dollar Academy and Training Facility at Downsview Park in Toronto. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383353 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383353 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:04:00 EDT Is it possible to open up the countdown and not come up with some angle to describe this game as the most important match in the team’s history? Probably not so let’s just get it out of the way – Toronto FC are now in the heart of Texas for their most important game in the history of the team! That’s right, a chance to follow in the steps, and possibly go beyond the achievement of Montreal and become only the second Canadian side to advance to the knockout round of the CONCACAF Champions League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383352 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383352 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:03:00 EDT On October 18th, Toronto FC take on FC Dallas in the final group stage game of the CONCACAF Champions League. A win guarantees Toronto FC a spot in the knockout stages. It is, quite simply, the biggest game Toronto FC have ever played. Should Toronto come away from Pizza Hut Park with a victory, they will have gone farther in the Champions League under Aron Winter than any other manager. Dallas, however, isn’t going to go down without a fight – here are 10 things Toronto FC must do to defeat their MLS opponents to the south. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383351 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383351 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:02:00 EDT The playoffs have now been cut from eight teams to the final four, it was an eventful Quarterfinal round and two teams are one step closer to reaching the 2011 CSL Championship Final and lifting the Givova Cup (formerly known as the Rogers Cup). Unlike the Quarterfinal round that is a two-legged affair the semis are a one-match playoff at the venue of the higher seed, the winners will then play the final on a neutral site. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383350 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6383350 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:01:00 EDT New East Side Stand Up for Monday, Oct 17, 2011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381666 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381666 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 23:58:00 EDT Toronto have had their chance to save face and earn back respect against three opponents who quite simply humiliated them this season. TFC went from 6-2, 5-0, 4-0 to tighten the reigns and earn their third consecutive 1-1 draw against the teams who dominated them the most. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381637 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381637 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 23:19:00 EDT The Whitecaps two game win streak has come to an end as they have now joined the small group MLS clubs who have gone through an entire season without winning on the road. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381634 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381634 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 23:19:00 EDT After a disappointing result at home to Puerto Rico, the National Team disbanded and returned to their club teams to compete in this weekend’s fixtures. While in North America Julian De Guzman and Terry Dunfield were given a break after back to back games, the Canucks in Europe were offered no such reprieve. However, given how noticeable the level of play the likes of David Edgar, Olivier Occean and Lars Hirschfeld brought to the table, continued starts and ninety minutes should result in improved performances in the red and white. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381613 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6381613 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 23:18:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps marched into their final away match of the season on a high note. The first winning streak of the season will do that to you. They had pounded Real Salt Lake in a 3-0 drubbing, and then had followed it up with a very solid 2-1 victory against D.C. United. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6380401 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6380401 Sun, 16 Oct 2011 02:23:00 EDT Toronto FC earned themselves a respectable result in Philadelphia, coming back to tie the Eastern Conference leading Union 1-1 at PPL Park Saturday afternoon. It was an encouraging result in many ways for the Reds as they were able to leave with a point and very competitive showing, as well as resting key players ahead of their Champions League decider Tuesday night against FC Dallas. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6380131 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6380131 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 20:40:00 EDT It’s certainly starting to look like the Whitecaps are starting to feel at home at BC Place, as they won two games in a row for the first time in their admittedly short MLS existence with a victory over D.C. United. While the absence of Canadian MLS scoring machine Dwayne De Rosario likely changed the complexion of this fixture, it was still another all around strong performance by Vancouver. Tom Soehn has to be asking himself where the team that has played in the last two games has been for the majority of his helm as Whitecaps Head Coach. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6378266 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6378266 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:02:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Steven discuss FC Edmonton’s recently completed first season in the NASL, the possibility of Edmonton moving to the MLS some day, Edmonton’s recent announcement that eleven players will not be returning to the club in 2012, the Canadian impact players on the Alberta-based NASL team, including Shawn Saiko, Kyle Porter and Paul Hamilton, whether or not Canadian International David Monsalve will assume the number one keeper position next year, Edmonton’s success as a development platform for Canadian players and influence of Dutch Head Coaches at both Toronto FC and FC Edmonton. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6377867 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6377867 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 03:00:00 EDT It’s back to business for Toronto FC as they wind down another season sans post-season play. Traveling to the City of Brotherly Love to take on the Eastern Conference leading Philadelphia Union, the Reds will be in tough with a critical Champions League fixture looming next Tuesday. Even without the difficult task of player management, Toronto are up against one of the most consistent teams in the league, who are now in the midst of a series of strong results. Recently Aron Winter has used lengthy breaks in league play to his advantage, but with all eyes on Dallas next week, this match could just be a matter of trying to get out alive with enough fresh legs to leave it all on the pitch Tuesday night. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6377862 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6377862 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 03:54:00 EDT While Vancouver has struggled for wins for the entire season, Dallas is only now coming out of a prolonged slump. Before the aforementioned victory over Chicago, the Texans had been on downward slop of 400 minutes of scoreless soccer and a number of frustrating 1-0 defeats. Injuries to key personnel, suspensions due to red and yellow cards and a super heavy schedule of matches and travel due to the team doing double duty in the CONCACAF Champions League all added up to a truly miserable and under-performing month of September for Dallas. The men question now is whether or not the team is back its former self or just benefited from playing against one of the poor teams in the league in the Fire. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6377849 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6377849 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 03:54:00 EDT It was a different look for both teams up front going into Wednesday’s clash between the Vancouver Whitecaps and DC United. In the Whitecaps starting lineup, Long Tan got the start at striker alongside Camilo. It’s clear by this move that Head Coach Tom Soehn has lost a little faith in the abilities of Mustapha Jarju when it comes to putting together a full 90 minutes. Eric Hassli also started off on the bench after coming back from a one game suspension. Soehn elected to give Nizar Khalfan a well deserved second straight start at midfield, following his great game last week versus Real Salt Lake. Davide Chiumiento was the missing cog in the midfield starting lineup, perhaps nursing a recent knock. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6376682 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6376682 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 11:41:00 EDT When Demetrius Omphroy was selected by Toronto FC in the second round of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft back in January, the general consensus was that the 22 year old University of California, Berkeley product was ready to compete for minutes at right back in TFC’s new 4-3-3 tactical approach. That idea was reinforced by incoming Head Coach Aron Winter when he classified Omphroy as one of the defenders that really impressed him at the MLS Combine. Fast forward to the tail end of the 2011 season and Omphroy is now on a very different track, with the organization making a decision early in the year to move the personable and skilled California native from the back line to the front line. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6376037 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6376037 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:25:00 EDT What goes up, must come down. Unfortunately for Canada their offensive outburst Friday night could not be sustained when it mattered most: in front of their home supporters. Not only was it a scoreless draw, but one that delivered few moments of genuine excitement as chances were at a premium and neither keeper were truly put to the test. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6376036 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6376036 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:25:00 EDT With only two more home games left at BC Place, the Whitecaps are hoping to end the year on a high. Their most recent result definitely helps that cause. Going into last Thursday’s match against Real Salt Lake, the Caps had dropped 3 straight. This included a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Portland in the debut of the newly renovated BC Place stadium. However, last week’s match against the #3 team in the Western Conference, proved to be the perfect bounce back game. The Caps jumped on their competition from Utah early, earning two straight penalties at the tail end of the first half and start of the 2nd half. Camilo converted the spot kicks, and with a late game insurance marker from midfielder Nizar Khalfan, the Caps had the home crowd going home happy with a 3-0 win. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6375119 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6375119 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:21:00 EDT Fresh off a dominant performance away in St. Lucia on Friday, Canada arrived back home looking to deliver another standout performance in front of what was expected to be a large crowd of Canadian supporters at BMO Field in Toronto. Standing in the way of a home victory for Stephen Hart’s side was a Puerto Rico side that is generally conceded to be the second best team in Group D after Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6374510 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6374510 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:23:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul discusses the positive manner in which Stephen Hart has dealt with the lack of playing time that Simeon Jackson has been receiving at the club and Jackson's stellar play with Canada in his most recent International fixtures. He also talks about Canada's progress as a team as they look to build confidence and momentum through their first round of World Cup qualifying. Paul also gives his thoughts on a recent statement by TFC forward Ryan Johnson that the current Toronto FC squad is a legitimate playoff team and discusses Vancouver's bounce-back win over Real Salt Lake. He also provides his assessment of Vancouver players Carlyle Mitchell and Long Tan and answers two thought provoking Whitecaps related questions submitted by listeners: 1. Is the MLS more competitive in Vancouver's first year in the league than it was when Toronto FC debuted back in 2007; and 2. Would Vancouver's season have turned out differently had Teitur Thordarson not been fired as Head Coach in the middle of the season? Lastly, Paul provides some positive signings on the Montreal Impact's signing of defender Nelson Rivaz and their astute hiring of Mike Sorber as an Assistant Coach, as he ends the podcast with a thought provoking discussion of how important it is for a Head Coach to hire not only a competent coach as his lead assistant, but also a genuine friend who will have his back when times get tough. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373188 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373188 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:38:00 EDT Two things that have never been in doubt when looking at the potential of Simeon Jackson to be a difference maker for the Canadian National Team have been his talent and his determination. Instead, the main question surrounding the 24 year old forward has always been when (and not if) he was going to deliver the type of game breaking performance for Canada that has become the hallmark of a career in England that has thus far been characterized by Jackson scoring big goals in promotion clinching victories. While no one is confusing the St. Lucia National Team with a Mexico or a Manchester United, Jackson’s hat trick against the St. Lucians last Friday was certainly a welcome sign that the Norwich City striker is indeed finding his form in his first World Cup qualifying matches. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373037 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373037 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 23:06:00 EDT With Canada delivering the type of dominating performance against St. Lucia on Friday that Canadian soccer pundits have been bellowing for since Canada kicked off their first round of World Cup qualifying for Brazil 2014 and with Simeon Jackson having become only the second player in the history of the Canadian Men’s National team to score a hat trick, the news that Julian de Guzman has earned his 50th cap for Canada has flown a little bit under the radar. RedNation Online recently caught up with the veteran midfielder to discuss the milestone and the progress that the Canadian National Team has made since he made his first appearance back in 2002. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373016 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373016 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EDT With Canada playing the middle two matches of the national team’s opening round of World Cup qualifiers in the early part of October, Head Coach Stephen Hart had to call up a few players who had not worn the Canada kit in some time due to the injuries accrued by some of his recent squad regulars. And in something of a surprise move, keeper Kenny Stamatopoulos got the start in Canada’s 7-0 victory over St. Lucia last Friday and the Toronto native could not be happier with both that result and the fact that he is be back with the Canadian squad for the first time since 2006. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373015 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373015 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EDT With the Canadian National Team coming off a dominating 7-0 away from home win over St. Lucia last Friday, striker Simeon Jackson is rightfully receiving many of the plaudits for becoming only the second player in the history of the Canadian National team to score a hat trick. That said, it is also important to recognize that Canada went into the St. Lucia fixture with the majority of their recent first choice defenders, including de facto team captain and key central defender Kevin McKenna, unable to play due to injury. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373014 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6373014 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 22:29:00 EDT Fresh off their most lopsided win in team history, the Canadian Men’s National Team return home and to Toronto to face Puerto Rico in the fourth fixture of the Second Round of World Cup Qualifying. Sitting atop Group C, Canada will play the Puerto Ricans for the second time, having won 3-0 at Estadio Juan Ramón on September 6. On Friday night, Canada could not have asked for a better result and performance to lead into this match, thoroughly dominating St. Lucia with three key attackers putting forth strong, comprehensive displays and scoring in bunches for the rout. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6372927 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6372927 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 21:25:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Andrew discuss his current campaign with Telstar in Holland, the recent launch of Dutch Connections FC and its upcoming initiatives, the impact of having Dutch coaches at Toronto FC and FC Edmonton, the Canadian National Team’s current World Cup Qualifying campaign and up and coming Canadian striker Tosaint Ricketts. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6371464 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6371464 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 02:15:00 EDT New East Side Stand Up! for October 10, 2011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6371463 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6371463 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 02:14:00 EDT RedNation Online's Gavin Day spoke to Stephen Hart, Dwayne De Rosario, Iain Hume and Simeon Jackson following Canada's 7-0 win over St. Lucia for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6368674 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6368674 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 07:43:00 EDT The key to the ratings, as seems to be the logic on a scale of 1-10, is not to view it as a “grade”, as in a 6 would be a 60 or a C. The formula is that each player begins the game with a 5 and is the equilibrium from which their performance either improves or degrades moving in increments of .5. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6368597 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6368597 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 07:08:00 EDT After their 4-1 win over St. Lucia in Toronto raised some questions, the Canadian men’s soccer team silenced the critics with a 7-0 dismantling of minnows St. Lucia. The win made history as Canada’s most lopsided victory in history and biggest World Cup qualifying win since a 5-1 result over the United States in 1957. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6368146 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6368146 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 01:20:00 EDT Live game coverage by the Canadian Soccer Association's Max Bell and RedNation's Gavin Day. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6367083 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6367083 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:02:00 EDT What a difference a few days and several lineup changes can make. After a disappointing loss in their first match at the refurbished BC Place, Vancouver came out gangbusters in this one, as they easily defeated an undermanned Real Salt Lake squad by a comfortable margin. Whitecaps Head Coach Tom Soehn needed to inject some fresh energy into his lineup following Sunday’s lacklustre showing against Portland and, for at least one night, it looks he found the winning combination. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366970 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366970 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:32:00 EDT Thursday’s makeup game pitted the Whitecaps against Real Salt Lake underneath the open roof at the newly renovated BC Place. RSL came into the matchup holding onto the #3 spot in the Western Conference standings. However, they were without one of their key players on this night. Midfielder Kyle Beckerman was unable to dress after receiving a red card in last week’s home match against the Chicago Fire. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366966 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366966 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:31:00 EDT Twitter feeds from the CSA, Gavin Day of RedNation Online and Sportsnetworld's Gerry Dobson, are available for you to follow updates. No need to have a twitter account. Feeds will refresh on their own in 5-8 second intervals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366207 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366207 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 02:57:00 EDT The playoffs are officially set in the Canadian Soccer League; it has been a very interesting season and has thrown up some very intriguing matches for the Quarterfinals. In this article I will break down each of the pairings and giving a prediction of who will advance but before I do there are a few aspects of the playoff format to keep in mind. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366107 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366107 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 01:16:00 EDT The Canadian Men’s National Team head into their second set of matches in the Second Round of World Cup Qualifying, as they take on CONCACAF minnows St. Lucia Friday night. There do not look to be many surprises leading into this match, as Canada dispossessed the Caribbean nation in the opening fixture of this group stage 4-1 and realistically should have won by an even bigger scoreline. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366068 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6366068 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:13:00 EDT With injuries and other commitments to a number of senior players on the Canadian squad, the upcoming two games could feature something of a youth movement on the back line. With Kevin McKenna out with a foot injury and Andre Hainault opting to remain with the Houston Dynamo as they look to secure a playoff spot, the central defensive pairing that has been in place effectively since the Gold Cup is gone. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6365982 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6365982 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 23:20:00 EDT With the Canadian Men’s National Team 2-0 in World Cup Qualifying thus far and with Canada having defeated the team’s next opponent 4-1 in Toronto in September, Canadian National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart is still not about to take the St. Lucians lightly, nor is he treating Tuesday’s fixture as an opportunity test out young players or rest starters for a match against a perceived more difficult opponent in Puerto Rico on October 11th. According to Hart, there can only be one priority at this point and that is to earn three points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6365511 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6365511 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:19:00 EDT For many Toronto FC fans it probably seems like a lifetime ago, but one of Aron Winter’s first moves when he took over at the helm of TFC was to bring in three Dutch players to help with his new squad’s transition to a Dutch 4-3-3 system. Both Nick Soolsma and Javier Martina have played reasonably significant roles in a transitional season for Major League Soccer’s original Canadian franchise, the most experienced of that initial Dutch trio, Elbekay Bouchiba, has yet to play a minute for Toronto due to an ACL knee injury. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6363994 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6363994 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 22:34:00 EDT For the second time in as many months, the Canadian men’s soccer team will be playing a road World Cup qualifier in a stadium not built with soccer in mind. Last month, the Canadians played Puerto Rico at the Estadio Juan Ramon Loubriel which was built for baseball. This time around, Canada will take on St. Lucia at the Beausejour Stadium which is, in fact, a cricket oval. Built in 2002, the Beausejour Cricket Oval hosted some of the cricket World Cup in 2007 and just last year was the venue for some of the World Cup of the T20 version of cricket. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6363926 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6363926 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 21:48:00 EDT After posting two straight disappointing results against NorthWest rivals, the Vancouver Whitecaps are looking for redemption Thursday night. This is when they face Real Salt Lake in a rescheduled match. The game that originally was supposed to be played on July 16th, will instead be the second soccer match held in the newly renovated B.C Place. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6363080 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6363080 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:43:00 EDT In the previous installment of The Training Edge, I previewed the Soccer Fitness Soccer-Specific Fitness Assessment Protocol, including the theory and methodology, as well as a rationale for the specific tests chosen. Part 2 of this article contains a detailed written synopsis, as well as the attached video, which will give you the most accurate picture possible of the tests themselves and charts containing standards and norms for various levels of play have also been provided. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6362115 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6362115 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 23:08:00 EDT A weekend of football as explosive as a mouthful of Altoids mints – I tried this, salivated copiously, and started to talk like Daffy Duck – overshadowed the week where stories of a certain neckless Argentine forward’s selfishness took over football’s column inches. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6362079 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6362079 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:36:00 EDT The name Joseph Di Chiara has been pretty much akin to that of a Canadian Soccer mystery man over the last several months. As the lone Canadian competing in the Russian Premier League on Samara-based side, FC Krylia Sovetov Samara, the 19 year old midfielder has impressed many Canadian soccer supporters with that achievement alone and his rise has had many of them asking questions along the lines of just how good the Thornhill native really is and when he might get his first call-up by the Canadian Men's National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6361567 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6361567 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:28:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul discusses Canada's roster for the Canadian Men's National Team's next two World Cup qualifying matches against St. Lucia and Puerto Rico, highlights the importance of team harmony in any successful qualifying campaign and talks about the challenges Stephen Hart faces in managing playing time and egos at the International level. He also discusses some of Hart's recent comments on midfielder Terry Dunfield and breaks down TFC's recent draws against Pumas in the Champions League and New York in the MLS, praises the manner in which an undermanned Toronto squad rose to the challenge against a superior Mexican side in the Champions League and provides further commentary on TFC's chances against Dallas in their final group stage fixture. Lastly, Paul provides his thoughts on Vancouver's underwhelming performance in their loss to Portland, touts the tactical flexibility that a 4-3-3 system offers and expresses his excitement around the advent of BC Place as an MLS soccer venue. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6360241 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6360241 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT It’s been quite the rookie year for 20 year old Toronto FC fullback Ashtone Morgan. The Toronto native and TFC Academy Graduate made his professional debut in March in TFC’s home opener win over Portland and it has been a steady progression for the talented youngster over the course of his first season in the MLS. In recent weeks some very impressive play has seen Morgan cement a place in Aron Winter’s starting eleven and the recent news that he has earned his first call up to the Canadian Men’s National Team seems very much like a natural evolution for one of the young Canadians who has genuinely impressed the Canadian soccer community in 2011 with both his play and his attitude. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358383 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358383 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:49:00 EDT Toronto FC midfielder/defender Torsten Frings isn’t the only former Werden Bremen player and German International competing in the MLS these days. 38 year old keeper Frank Rost also made the jump from the German Bundesliga to Major League Soccer during the summer transfer window when he signed with the New York Red Bulls and the native of Karl-Marx-Stadt, East Germany has had to adjust to a new league, team and culture while concurrently trying to play a key role in helping the Red Bulls to perform in an optimal manner down the stretch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358382 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358382 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:49:00 EDT Stephen Hart has named his roster for the next set of World Cup Qualifiers, and with those players in mind, they got one last weekend in playing for domestic club prior to the break. Canada’s biggest names were kept quiet this weekend, either from soundly being beaten or absence in the line up. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358381 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358381 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:48:00 EDT For the second match in a row, Toronto FC exceed expectations and find a way to get out in front, and nearly snatch three points, from much higher quality of opposition. Taking on both Pumas and New York back to back had the potential for two drubbings, but credit to the right tactical approach from Winter and the players involved who raised their game to match and stifle two very dangerous attacking sides. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358380 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358380 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:47:00 EDT In direct contrast to their first Home Opener this year, a Vancouver Whitecaps squad that should have come out firing on all cylinders against a Cascadia opponent at the launch of BC Place as a world class soccer venue instead delivered one of their worst performances of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358379 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358379 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:46:00 EDT At 6 foot 5, Andy Iro certainly cuts an imposing figure as a central defender and the former Columbus Crew 1st round pick is one of the key players who joined Toronto FC as Aron Winter drastically remade the TFC roster midseason. The 26 year old Liverpool, England native is a player who has achieved tremendous success at the both the U.S. collegiate level, where he was a key player when the University of California, Santa Barbara won their first ever national championship in soccer, and in the MLS, where he won the MLS Cup and a Supporter’s Shield with the Columbus Crew in 2008. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358367 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358367 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:33:00 EDT With a season full of negatives, the Vancouver Whitecaps finally had a positive; and that was before they even stepped on the pitch. BC Place re-opened on Sunday, much to the delight of the Whitecaps faithful. The air was electrifying, with a brilliant opening ceremony. The crowd was deafening, with a raucous chorus of “Whitecaps” booming through the air. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358366 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6358366 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 23:33:00 EDT With Toronto FC already having redeemed themselves in the Champions League with an impressive 1-1 draw on Tuesday against a Pumas side that had throttled them 4-0 in Mexico City a couple of weeks ago, the Reds went into their first match of October looking to earn some redemption for a humiliating 5-0 defeat against the New York Red Bulls back in July. While TFC was a struggling side striving for cohesion and consistency when these teams last met, on this day it was the Red Bulls that entered play as the struggling team. New York went into this one badly needing three points to keep themselves in the MLS Playoff picture and Hans Backe fielded a star-studded lineup that has played well below its potential in recent weeks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6356839 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6356839 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 01:11:00 EDT The BC Place era is finally here for the Vancouver Whitecaps, who will be looking to ride the momentum from moving into their fanatastic new home to a strong end to their first season in the MLS. With five matches remaining in their inaugual campaign in the North American top flight, including four at home, the Caps will be looking to set the tone for 2012 as they start a new chapter in their MLS history. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6356139 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6356139 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 12:25:00 EDT Toronto FC are now into match two of the Fall 2011 Redemption Tour, as they host the plummeting New York Red Bulls Saturday night. After saving face in the home fixture versus Pumas mid-week, they now have the opportunity to prove the team that was humiliated 5-0 early July at Red Bull Arena is dead and gone. The Red Bulls struggles of late, on and off the field, are well documented as they have dropped countless points due to poor defending and goalkeeping, and now it would appear the mentality of the team has come into question as part of their collapse. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6354229 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6354229 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 07:35:00 EDT Men’s Canadian National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart has announced his 18-man roster for Canada’s next two World Cup qualifying matches against St. Lucia (in St. Lucia on October 7th) and Puerto Rico (in Toronto, ON on October 11th). There are six changes to coach Hart’s 18-man roster from the last two FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in September, with two new players earning their first call ups to the national team, Joseph Di Chiara and Ashtone Morgan. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6353199 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6353199 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 17:15:00 EDT Toronto’s biggest game of the season gave us quite a bit to talk about. Jimmy Stone once again joins us for The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6351851 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6351851 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:18:00 EDT The satisfaction of TFC’s redeeming performance against Pumas was bittersweet as their short-staffed roster surprised many and looked like they could actually come away with all three points. Five minutes into the second half it was not to be, but in the end fending off a more technical and offensively superior side showed the character and will supporters have been longing for all season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6351850 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6351850 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:18:00 EDT I’m writing this part of the column in the Eggsmart down the road from my house. I had never been before and, I have to say, it’s not as bad as I thought it would be. However, it has reminded me of a difference between North Americans and the British that I feel will never be bridged. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6351849 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6351849 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:17:00 EDT With Toronto FC having experienced both euphoric victories and disappointing losses in recent weeks, it wasn’t a stretch to imagine that the players on TFC came into this key CONCACAF Champions League match both physically and mentally exhausted. Add to that the fact that the Reds would need to deliver a result without key players like Torsten Frings, Joao Plata, Eric Avila and Terry Dunfield and a win against one of the top teams in Mexico was always going to look like an uphill battle. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6350367 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6350367 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 01:47:00 EDT It’s been an interesting year for the Whitecaps, to say the least. After a phenomenally entertaining first match, it’s been a downward slide, one that continued on Saturday night with a 3-1 loss to the rival Seattle Sounders. However, one of the bright spots recently is that Captain Jay DeMerit is finally healthy. And when Demerit is healthy, he easily ranks with some of the best defenders in the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6348600 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6348600 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 01:17:00 EDT Paul responds to several pointed questions from listeners about Dwayne De Rosario, Owen Hargreaves and Aron Winter. He also discusses Toronto FC's victory over Tauro FC in the CONCACAF Champions League, the Champions League ramifications of TFC's underwhelming loss to Chivas USA on Saturday, Aron Winter's decisions to not rest some key starters ahead of Toronto's crucial Champions League match against Pumas and to move Torsten Frings back to the midfield against Chivas, and whether or not a permanent move to centre back would be the right move for both Frings and TFC. Paul also answers the Canadian footy fan centric question of which of the two Canadian MLS clubs has the better European DP centre forward. Lastly, he also provides his commentary on the Whitecaps hammering at the feet of the Seattle Sounders and discusses whether or not Tom Soehn deserves criticism for a lineup too heavy on offensive players with limited defensive acumen. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6348528 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6348528 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 23:34:00 EDT It’s been a roller coaster ride for Toronto FC over the last two weeks, with monumental victories and confidence-jarring defeats. Through the next month they will have opportunities to right some of their worst-ever results, starting Tuesday night when they host Pumas in the return fixture of their CONCACAF Champions League match-up. In the away game, TFC were castrated within the first thirty minutes and in the end fell to a very fortunate scoreline of 4-0. The Reds are missing some important players on this night, most notably Torsten Frings, who picked up his second yellow card in the dying seconds of the Tauro win last week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6348527 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6348527 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 23:33:00 EDT Toronto FC’s fifth season is coming to a close in the coming weeks, and with playoff hopes extinguished, the Reds look to CONCACAF play for a chance at salvation. Sitting in third with six points, Toronto take on Pumas UNAM from Mexico on Tuesday. Toronto’s Champions League ambitions will be realized with a win, and will more than likely be forgotten with a loss. With the pressure mounting on Aron Winter’s shoulders, the return of the young Ecuadorian Joao Plata will help ease some of the weight. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347647 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347647 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 11:09:00 EDT Overall, there were some more encouraging displays and results for Canadians across the Atlantic this past weekend. While there are still several notable games to be played on Monday, enough took place for supporters to be pleased with several players taking part in key matches and getting significant playing time. As the next two fixtures for World Cup Qualifying approaches, it is beginning to become a bit clearer who will fit in to the mandate of playing time and Stephen Hart will have enough options from this to not just base his selection on minutes played, but also form. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347441 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347441 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:19:00 EDT For the second week in a row, Toronto FC will be facing their biggest match of the season head on, as they take on a Mexican side that hammered them away from home two weeks ago in a crucial fixture that will likely decide if they will remain alive in the CONCACAF Champions League. Last week, Toronto rose to the challenge with a commanding victory at home over Panamanian side Tauro FC, but they will likely need to raise their games that much more against Group C leaders Pumas, who defeated the Reds 4-0 in Mexico City. Ask any number of the TFC players if things will be different in the rematch and three words are invariably uttered: home field advantage. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347423 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347423 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:17:00 EDT So it’s done. All the Canadian teams sealed their fates in one way or another over the last week. Three of them, in various ways, were eliminated mathematically from playoffs. And one, perhaps the most unlikely of them all, rose to meet the annual challenge. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347421 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347421 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:16:00 EDT The recent announcement of the long awaited Long Term Player Development Program (LTPD) being implemented by the Ontario Soccer Association (OSA) & Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) has finally been put into place and not a moment too soon. While for the casual soccer fan and/or one whom only pays attention to professional soccer at the highest level may not know what this means for soccer in this country, but for those involved at the grass roots level this is great news. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347418 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347418 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:14:00 EDT Some called for Aron Winter to go for it in this game in terms of player selection, seeing wounded prey and a genuine opportunity for a rare road victory. He did just that, taking a risky chance, and ended up losing badly as Chivas took advantage of a very casual Toronto FC who went through the motions and that was not enough against a very in-form and dangerous Juan Pablo Angel. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347416 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347416 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:13:00 EDT The Whitecaps continued to look quite porous in the back as they once again showed that they are quite a ways off from being genuinely competitive against the top teams in the MLS Western Conference. The back line of Leathers, DeMerit, Boxall and Harvey was again very poor, with the Whitecaps captain in particular struggling mightily in this one. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347414 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6347414 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:12:00 EDT There was a significant amount of emerald green at Empire stadium Saturday night as 1500 residents of the greater Washington area witnessed Seattle’s clash with the Whitecaps in the last game played at Empire Field. Both sides went into the game vying for the 2011 Cascadia Cup - for the Sounders all they needed was a victory on the road to clinch the trophy while the Caps would have to win outright for the hardware to be their’s. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6346317 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6346317 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 12:47:00 EDT The main question heading into this match concerned whether or not TFC Head Coach Aron Winter would rest some of his starting lineup ahead of a key Champions League match against Pumas on Tuesday. With Winter repeatedly stating in recent weeks that he only looks at the next game on the schedule when planning his lineup choices and tactics, the Dutchman stood by his convictions and went what has become his A starting lineup (with Nick Soolsma covering for the currently injured Joao Plata) in recent weeks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6345805 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6345805 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 02:11:00 EDT There are two big stories entering the Whitecaps Saturday night clash with the Seattle Sounders. One effects the home side and the other, the visitors. For the Whitecaps it is the final game being staged at Empire Field. Following this clash, Vancouver will move into the newly renovated BC Place. Empire Field has been relatively unfriendly to the Caps in their debut season, as they have only picked up 4 wins out of a possible 12 games at home. This may be seen as expansion team blues, however if you look at the other freshman MLS squad, the Portland Timbers, it’s a different story. The Timbers are a team that while suffering struggles on the road, have been lethal at home, posting a 9-4-3 record. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6345011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6345011 Sat, 24 Sep 2011 09:07:00 EDT TFC are back on the road looking for their second away win of the season as they travel to the west coast to take on the struggling Chivas USA. It is one of the few games, when looking through the schedule at the start of the year, that could have been highlighted as a potential road victory, and as the date approaches is still the case. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6343308 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6343308 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 01:37:00 EDT He’s the kind of player that’s just fun to watch. He steps over the ball and cuts in, passing with more than just repetitive boredom – each movement on and off the ball is visibly thought out, planned. His head is up, his feet are constantly moving, and his turn is precise. Giving up Eric Avila may just prove to be FC Dallas’ biggest blunder of their season.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6343306 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6343306 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 01:33:00 EDT Thus far, the Canadian Men’s National Team is 2-0 in their initial round of World Cup qualifying and, for many observers, neither those victories nor the fact that the team has scored seven goals versus one conceded is enough to convince some pessimists that Canada will have what it takes when the team plays against some of the big boys in the CONCACAF region later on in the qualifying process. Ask Canadian striker Iain Hume whether Canada can run with the top teams in the region and he will tell you that Canada can compete with any International soccer team in the world. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6343265 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6343265 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:18:00 EDT At Manchester United, coming into training camp 5lbs overweight can cost you $5000. In fact, in most professional first and even second division teams, players are fined between $100 - $1000 per pound of extra weight gained in the off-season. Elite players also stand to lose something even more valuable than money – playing time – if they show decreased performance on endurance testing measures when training camp begins. When taken together, these facts serve to highlight the importance of physical and physiological testing for elite level soccer players. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6341930 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6341930 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 23:30:00 EDT TFC get the all-important win, keeping them alive until later on Wednesday night, which will determine just how hard their path to the knockout stage will become. For now they hold their destiny in their own hands and regardless of how good the performance is, when all three points are taken, at the end of the night that is all that matters. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6341893 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6341893 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 21:48:00 EDT Last week I had an overwhelming sense of guilt. I don’t feel it often and it certainly isn’t something I’d like to feel again soon. I still feel a fair portion of it now: unappetisingly dolloped in front of me; all lumpy and sloppy like the contents of a meatball marinara Subway. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6341255 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6341255 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 10:12:00 EDT After a solid win against the Colorado Rapids in the league last Saturday, there was little rest for Toronto FC as they found themselves back on the pitch on only three days rest for a crucial Champions League match against Panamanian side Tauro FC. With the Reds currently sitting in third place in Group C, Toronto entered this match looking to make it a two game sweep over a CONCACAF opponent that they defeated on the road on August 18th in a game that was marred by some very suspect refereeing by a Cuban officiating crew. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6340793 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6340793 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:40:00 EDT With six goals scored in seven league matches, it will be interesting to see just what Danny Koevermans can do when he is fully match fit. The current MLS Player of the Week, who joined Toronto FC during the summer transfer window, admits that he is still working to gain full fitness and that it is entirely probable that TFC fans won’t actually see him in his top gear until next season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6340054 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6340054 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:48:00 EDT With Toronto FC having achieved a record of 5 wins, 3 losses and 2 draws over their last 10 matches in all competitions, plenty of plaudits have been thrown the way of Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans, the two Designated Players the club signed during the summer transfer window. While those two exceptional players have indeed made a major difference in the fortunes of TFC in the latter part of the 2011 season, Toronto’s third and original Designated Player, Julian de Guzman, has been no slouch in terms of his own performances in recent weeks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6339634 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6339634 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 23:25:00 EDT Toronto FC have made themselves a nice Jekyll and Hyde sandwich and now we will see if they can stay in form as they host Tauro FC for their fourth group stage match in the Champions League. Fresh off back to back wins in MLS play, but back to back losses against CONCACAF competition, Tauro at home represents a golden opportunity for TFC to get back in the hunt for a knockout round spot and continue their momentum earned Saturday afternoon in their 2-1 victory over Colorado. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6339629 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6339629 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 23:11:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul breaks down Toronto FC's 4-0 defeat to Pumas in the Champions League and highlights the challenges inherent in playing in Mexico and at altitude. He also discusses Toronto's 2-1 bounce back win over Colorado, Torsten Frings as a Sweeper, the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-0 defeat at the hands of the league leading Los Angeles Galaxy and Vancouver's defensive problems and difficulties in competing physically for a full ninety minutes. Lastly, Paul also explains why Canadian Men's National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart should call up TFC left back Ashtone Morgan and expresses his satisfaction about the positive manner in which the Canadian Women's National Team has played and competed under new Head Coach John Herdman. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6339616 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6339616 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 22:34:00 EDT RedNation and Ashtone discuss his thoughts on his first season in the MLS with Toronto FC, his evolution playing under Aron Winter and alongside TFC veterans like Torsten Frings, Julian de Guzman and Ryan Johnson and his recent public confirmation on committing his International future to Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338688 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338688 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:06:00 EDT Toronto FC defeated the reigning MLS champions, The Colorado Rapids, 2-1 at BMO Field, securing a full three points. Toronto once again showed the offensive potency that saw them topple Columbus last week. Toronto started off slowly in the first half, controlling possession and dictating play; unfortunately, the first half was slow, neither team able to figure the other out. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338653 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338653 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 22:46:00 EDT It was the battle of who can bounce back, as both teams were embarrassed mid-week by their Mexican Champions League competition. TFC had their arms raised at the end of the day through a strong defensive showing, and comprehensive team effort, that shows they are now finally turning into a team that can compete against the best in MLS. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338652 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338652 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 22:46:00 EDT With the Whitecaps not exactly earning the title of Road Warriors this season, at least in terms of their ability to achieve win away from home, this one was always going to be an uphill battle for Vancouver. The Galaxy are playing on a different level from a number of the teams in the MLS, have a solid team from top to bottom and possess three game breakers who can produce some magic at any point in a match. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338651 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338651 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 22:45:00 EDT LA Galaxy 3 Vancouver Whitecaps 0 This game was going to come down to how the Whitecaps handled the Galaxy offensive attack. With Robbie Keane, David Beckham and Landon Donovan being the notable names leading LA, the Caps fielded what is probably their strongest back four. Jonny Leathers was back in the starting lineup, replacing John Thorrington at outside back. With Jordan Harvey playing the other outside back position, Alain Rochat and captain Jay DeMerit manned the middle of the defense. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338650 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338650 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 22:44:00 EDT Montreal Impact 2 FC Edmonton 0 With a playoff spot on the line, the Montreal Impact could not afford to lose their last regular-season home game against FC Edmonton. Turned out to be a lot less painless than expected; taking home the 2-0 win and much-needed three points in a decidedly easy match up. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338649 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338649 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 22:44:00 EDT There was not too much to get excited about for Canadians playing overseas this past weekend, as many saw significant playing time, but few were instrumental in their club’s result. It was a mixed bag as the usual suspects in England are still struggling to find minutes, even though the most notable Canadian, David Edgar, has gotten 90 minutes several games on the bounce. Iain Hume also continues his fine run of form for Preston North End as he scored a goal in their 3-1 victory over Brentford. As Canada nears their second set of fixtures in World Cup Qualifying, Stephen Hart will be pleased to see the majority of his key players in the starting line-up, still getting minutes each week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338648 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6338648 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 22:43:00 EDT Toronto FC and the Colorado Rapids returned to league play on Saturday afternoon on fairly equal footing. With both clubs having competed in the CONCACAF Champions League midweek and with both teams having suffered embarrassing defeats at the hands of Mexican sides, both the Reds and the visiting Rapids entered the afternoon looking to bounce back with strong performances and aiming to get back onto a winning track. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6337490 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6337490 Sat, 17 Sep 2011 19:27:00 EDT When the Canadian Women’s National Team play their nextmatch on Saturday against the United States in Kansas City, the fixtures won’t only highlight the first time the team has played since a disappointing World Cup for the team in Germany during the summer, they will also mark the debut of Canada’s new head coach, John Herdman. And after a week long training camp with his new squad, the former New Zealand Women’s National Team Head Coach says that things have already started to come together nicely for him and the team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6337035 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6337035 Sat, 17 Sep 2011 10:10:00 EDT After letting three points slip away last week against the New York Red Bulls, the Caps now travel to Los Angeles to play a beefed up Galaxy squad. LA has recently let go of striker Juan Pablo Angel, who is now property of Chivas USA. They made that move to make room for Irish international striker Robbie Keane. Keane, who is renowned for his roundoff corner flag goal celebration, scored in LA’s last match, a 2-1 loss to Monarcas Morella in CONCACAF Champions League play. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6336171 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6336171 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:41:00 EDT In this interview, Peter and RedNation discuss the Whitecaps first season in the MLS, the mood around the club heading into the final weeks of the 2011 season, the state of the team heading into a crucial off-season, incoming Head Coach Martin Rennie and the Whitecaps upcoming first MLS match at BC Place. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6335461 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6335461 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 02:09:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer Association and Josh Simpson held a conference call with members of the media on Thursday to discuss Canada's victories over St. Lucia and Puerto Rico in World Cup Qualifying, as well as rumours around an upcoming friendly between Canada and Tunisia to held in February, playing with fellow Canadian International Mike Klukowski at the club, the challenges inherent in playing for the Canadian Men's National Team while playing professionally in Turkey and the importance of team attitude when competing at the International level. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6335289 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6335289 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 23:47:00 EDT It is difficult to hold back using dozens of potential analogies and metaphors that could describe the harsh reality bestowed on TFC after a merciful 4-0 scoreline, and loss, at the hands of Pumas. They’ve all been said and now Toronto must put a severe humbling behind them and continue plowing ahead as they face another recently embarrassed side in the Colorado Rapids. Also coming off a harsh defeat, 4-1 at home to another Mexican club, Santos Laguna, the Rapids are at a point in their season where they need to quickly get some momentum and positive results if they are to realistically position themselves as contenders for the MLS Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6335285 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6335285 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 23:40:00 EDT In a match that on the surface appeared very much like that of a team crashing back to reality, Toronto FC indeed played poorly in their 4-0 Champions League loss to Mexican side Pumas UNAM. While it is hard to highlight any player not named Kocic or Frings – and maybe Johnson – as having delivered a quality performance, this loss also highlighted two very important things about Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6334427 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6334427 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:21:00 EDT Toronto FC likely arrived in Mexico with their chests puffed out after a decisive and impressive victory on the road against MLS Eastern Conference leader the Columbus Crew on Saturday. With confidence high and Julian de Guzman on his best run of form since he joined TFC, the Reds were still going to need a flawless performance against a high powered Pumas UNAM side. A victory on the road in Mexico would not only duplicate the feat that FC Dallas achieved last month when they became the first MLS team to win a Champions League match in Mexico, it would also put Toronto in an excellent position to advance to the knockout stage of CONCACAF’s premier club competition. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6334425 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6334425 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 08:05:00 EDT I don’t condone fighting. I’ve just never seen the point in getting punchy on a Saturday night – maybe it’s because I’m not from Newcastle. I like boxing, but that’s an excellent sport boasting in-depth gameplans and a fascinating history. But fisticuffs just for the hell of it? No, not for me. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6333122 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6333122 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 10:18:00 EDT Fresh off their biggest win … ever? Toronto FC now travel to another hostile stadium to take on Pumas in their third fixture of the CONCACAF Champions League. Perhaps the biggest hurdle in the club’s short history was cleared on Saturday night in a 4-2 win over Columbus, and they will need to maintain their momentum and confidence as they head into Mexico, a country only one MLS team has ever left with all three points. Pumas, the 2011 Clausura Champions, began their Apertura season strong, with three wins out of the gate, but are now in struggling through a terrible run of form that has seen them not win since August 3rd. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6332420 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6332420 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 23:30:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul speaks at length about the Canadian Men's National Team's victory over Puerto Rico in World Cup qualifying, the importance of Atiba Hutchinson, David Edgar as a right back at the International level, the emergence of Tosaint Ricketts, a couple of controversial Tweets by Will Johnson, the challenges of being a coach in the Internet age and how Canada should prepare for the next round of World Cup Qualifying. Paul also discusses the Vancouver Whitecaps recent draw against the New York Red Bulls, TFC's huge win over the Columbus Crew, the improved play of Julian de Guzman and the potential of Ashtone Morgan. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6330961 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6330961 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 23:36:00 EDT With a little under a month left in the season the standings are starting to take shape for the playoffs. The top teams are just about jockeying for position while the rest are in a dog fight for the final few places. There are still games to be played and a few teams have matches in hand, but here is a quick overview of how we currently stand and some possible playoff matches. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6330940 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6330940 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 22:52:00 EDT I’ve waited five years to write this piece. Five nerve-wracking, heart-thumping years to officially put this into writing, so here it is: For Toronto FC fans, this is a momentous occasion. For the diehards who have been with this team for five long years, today marks a new chapter in the history of TFC. For new supporters, Toronto FC have shown they’re a team now changed. One such supporter is Jimmy Stone, a London native who has become frustrated and tired of monotonous English football; he has adopted Toronto FC as his team of choice as he chronicles his journey exploring MLS. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329673 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329673 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:20:00 EDT TFC went out and did what was, up to this point in their history, the near impossible. Not only did they win on the road, but at Crew Stadium to clinch the Trillium Cup for the first time. This victory delivers a massive boost in morale and confidence (for the team and supporters) in what has been a very trying season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329668 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329668 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:19:00 EDT TFC went out and did what was, up to this point in their history, the near impossible. Not only did they win on the road, but at Crew Stadium to clinch the Trillium Cup for the first time. This victory delivers a massive boost in morale and confidence (for the team and supporters) in what has been a very trying season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329667 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329667 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:18:00 EDT The momentum from back to back wins for Canada carried over the Atlantic as it was a good weekend for Canucks playing overseas. With the last few leagues on the continent finally underway, there is a plethora of players now competing in Europe. From England and Germany to now Scandanavia and Turkey, there are fewer wasting on the bench with the majority seeing the pitch this past weekend. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329666 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6329666 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:11:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps arrived Harrison, New Jersey looking to build on the improved form that they had shown in August and hoping to take advantage of a struggling New York Red Bulls side that is now inexplicably in a real struggle to make the playoffs. With the Whitecaps having enjoyed a week off from MLS competition, Head Coach Tom Soehn had a healthy squad to choose from, as he made to two changes to the starting eleven that had defeated Houston 1-0 at Empire Field, with Shea Salinas and Camilo returning to the starting lineup in place of Mustapha Jarju and Jonathan Leathers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6328852 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6328852 Sun, 11 Sep 2011 10:29:00 EDT Toronto arrived in Columbus, Ohio to take on their arch rivals the Columbus Crew after having more than a weak off to refresh themselves and bounce back from conceding a late goal in drawing their last match at home against the San Jose Earthquakes. While Columbus has been far and away the more successful team in five years of battles between the two clubs, the Reds entered this match knowing that a win would award them their first ever Trillium Cup, which is given each year to either Columbus or Toronto based on the head to head record between the two teams. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6328329 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6328329 Sat, 10 Sep 2011 23:04:00 EDT Following the Labour Day layoff, the Caps have the unenviable task of traveling to New York to play the Red Bulls Saturday. The city that never sleeps will be emotionally charged this weekend as Sunday marks the 10 year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6326041 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6326041 Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:35:00 EDT Toronto FC are rested, rejuvenated and ready to finish their season strong and there is no better opponent to signal their progress and improvement than traveling to Columbus to take on the Crew. TFC languish near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, while for the third year straight Columbus quietly have gone about their business and find themselves top of the division. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6325018 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6325018 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 23:59:00 EDT I was contacted by Bennett Jull on Monday, August 22, at 10:00am. He is a 16 year old soccer player I had coached and trained previously, and I had not heard from him in over a year. We had a brief conversation, in which he explained his present soccer situation. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6323121 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6323121 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 22:52:00 EDT At 18 years old, Toronto FC midfielder and TFC Academy Graduate Matt Stinson is one of the young players who has impressed with Toronto FC this year and the football education he is receiving this season could really pay dividends for TFC over the next several years. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6323117 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6323117 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 22:41:00 EDT With an opening win in World Cup qualifying over St. Lucia to their credit, the Canadian Men’s National Team arrived in Puerto Rico to play their second fixture in a week against a side that many expected would be a much stiffer opponent. With Canadian Head Coach Stephen Hart often calling playing away from home in the CONCACAF the great equalizer, Canada went into this one knowing they were going to have to get the job done with Atiba Hutchinson, as Hart gave his still recovering from injury best player the night off. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6321561 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6321561 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:25:00 EDT Canada 3 – Puerto Rico 0 Once again some might say the scoreline is not indicative of the run of play through ninety minutes, but in the end Canada gets the job done in a tough environment to go well ahead of the pack in Group D of World Cup Qualifying. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6321541 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6321541 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 23:42:00 EDT Well, it wasn’t pretty. But that doesn’t matter. After Canada’s 4-1 win over St. Lucia, I breathed a deep sigh of relief. Canada had started the match on fire only to have that fire put out instantly by a goal from St Lucia. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6320515 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6320515 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:31:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul pulls no punches in offering his opinions on Canada's performance against St. Lucia in their first World Cup qualifying match on the road to Brazil 2014, the encouraging home crowd at BMO Field in Toronto for the St. Lucia fixture, the challenges inherent in facing off against a side of obvious inferior quality, the enigma that is Canadian right back Jaime Peters, the hiring of John Herdman as the new Head Coach of the Canadian Women's National Team and what Herdman's hiring says about the sad state of coaching development and opportunities in the Canadian soccer industry. Paul also names his Three Stars for Canada for the St. Lucia match and provides hard hitting answers to a pair of questions submitted by podcast listeners on Canada's struggles during their last World Cup Qualifying campaign under Dale Mitchell and on what Paul would do if he was at the helm of a Toronto FC side that is all but certain to miss the MLS playoffs for the fifth straight year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6320128 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6320128 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:24:00 EDT RedNation Online's Gavin Day traveled to Puerto Rico to take in the Canadian Men's National Team training sessions prior to their second World Cup Qualifying matche against Puerto Rico. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6320127 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6320127 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:23:00 EDT After a critical victory Friday night over St. Lucia, Canada looks to build momentum in the Second Round of World Cup Qualifying as they travel south to the fortress that is known as Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium to take on Puerto Rico. Canada went through some trying moments in their opening fixture, but in the end getting the important three points is all that matters, as does the fact their two other competitors drew their match to put them clear on top of the table. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6319897 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6319897 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:22:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Jay Long, a frequent contributor to the website IMS Soccer News and a long time observer and analyst of soccer in Puerto Rico. Long currently co-hosts a podcast on the North American Soccer League (NASL) and he was kind enough to chat with RedNation and provide his insights on the Puerto Rico National Team in advance of the upcoming World Cup qualifying match between Canada and Puerto Rico. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6319891 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6319891 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 22:16:00 EDT The Canadian Men’s National Team kicked off what Canadian Soccer Supporters are hoping will be a long journey culminating in an appearance at Brazil 2014 with their opening World Cup qualifying match against St. Lucia today in Toronto. Canada went into this game as heavy favourites against a St. Lucian side made up pretty much solely of local players and semi-professionals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6315906 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6315906 Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:19:00 EDT The Canadian Men’s National Team kicks off their arduous journey to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil Friday night as they take on CONCACF minnows St. Lucia. The mantra all week has been not looking past any team and Stephen Hart’s initial selection for the squad reflects that, as nearly man for man he has called up what many would call the best senior players available. In St. Lucia, Canada are taking on the 187th FIFA ranked team in the world, and a side that are composed of mostly domestic players with a few based out of Trinidad and Tobago. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6314369 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6314369 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 23:36:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Canadian International Marcus Haber to discuss the start of the Canadian Men’s National Team’s World Cup qualifying campaign for Brazil 2014. In this interview, Haber discusses his fitness following a serious knee injury that he suffered last year, his recent form with Scottish side St. Johnstone, his development as a young player since making the move to the United Kingdom, and his thoughts on the need to adjust his game for matches played in the CONCACAF region. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6314359 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6314359 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 23:33:00 EDT With Canada starting the beginning of a journey that all involved are hoping will result in the second ever appearance by a Canadian side at a FIFA Men’s World Cup, Friday’s fixture against St. Lucia will also mark the first World Cup qualifying campaign for a number of the players on Stephen Hart’s squad, including young players such as Milan Borjan, Simeon Jackson and Jonathan Beaulieu-Bourgault. At 29 years old, Terry Dunfield is also set to appear in his first World Cup qualifying matches and the Toronto FC midfielder is suitably excited. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6314358 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6314358 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 23:32:00 EDT Canadian Men’s National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart met with the press today in downtown Toronto to discuss Canada’s initial World Cup qualifying match against lowly ranked St. Lucia and, while he indicated that his team was completely confident that they will get a winning result, he also stressed that the Canadian National Team is not looking past St. Lucia or taking the 189th FIFA ranked side lightly. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6313568 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6313568 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 10:40:00 EDT While he would much rather be playing for Canada as opposed to watching, injured Toronto FC defender Adrian Cann is still looking to play a vital role as the Canadian Men’s National Team kicks off their World Cup qualifying campaign for Brazil 2014 on Friday. Cann and Umbro Canada will be hosting a pre-match event at Umbro’s official 2014 World Cup Qualifier Headquarters before Canada begin their World Cup qualifying campaign against St. Lucia at BMO Field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312961 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312961 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 23:27:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Simeon discuss his thoughts on his first World Cup qualifying campaign with Canada, his first few weeks in the English Premier League with his club side, Norwich City, Blackburn Rovers Canadian striker Junior Hoillet, and proving himself again in the top tier of English football. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312902 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312902 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:35:00 EDT I’ve enjoyed making comparisons between the British and Canadians in the four months I’ve been here. The latest thing I’ve found is that the British tend to dwell on things more. We’re still very upset about the death of Princess Diana. I expect some Canadians are too, but Lady Di continues to regularly appear in the British newspapers – namely the terrible tabloids like the Daily Mail and Daily Express. While her passing was tragic and planned out in an underground lair by the Queen – incredibly some are convinced of this – it was nearly fifteen years ago now. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312050 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312050 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 07:48:00 EDT When Canadian Men’s National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart announced his roster for Canada’s first two qualifiers for the 2014 World Cup, one of the surprise call-ups was none other than arguably Canada’s best player, Atiba Hutchinson. With the 28 year old midfielder still recovering from the knee injury that prevented him from playing in the team’s final two matches at the recent Gold Cup, it had been expected that the Brampton, Ontario native would not be available for Canada’s first two qualifiers against St. Lucia and Puerto Rico. But with Canada currently training in Alliston, Ontario ahead of Friday’s fixture against St. Lucia at BMO Field, Hutchinson was quick to pronounce himself fit and ready to go. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312049 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6312049 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 07:48:00 EDT RedNation Online spoke to Milan Borjan, Iain Hume, Andre Hainault, Tosaint Ricketts and Stephen Hart ahead of Canada's first match against St. Lucia http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6311638 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6311638 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 07:45:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his opinions on Toronto FC's 1-0 defeat to FC Dallas in the CONCACAF Champions League, why FC Dallas is the benchmark for Toronto and Vancouver to aspire to, TFC's 1-1 league draw with San Jose and Toronto's ongoing difficulties defending set pieces. We discuss Toronto FC defenders Ty Harden, Andy Iro and Ashtone Morgan, the Vancouver Whitecaps 1-0 victory over the Houston Dynamo, Whitecaps Designated Player Mustapha Jarju, the lack of Canadian players playing for Vancouver, the recently announced roster for Canada's first two World Cup qualifying matches against St. Lucia and Puerto Rico, Atiba Hutchinson and Canada's depth at the midfield position. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310208 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310208 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 01:13:00 EDT Toronto FC, fresh off a 1-0 loss against DC, looked to bounce back against Frank Yallop's San Jose Earthquakes. A strong start in the first half an hour saw Toronto FC control the pace of the game, as the Reds distributed well, establishing themselves in the midfield and pressuring well. A 1-0 scoreline at the half seemed to give Toronto FC some confidence, before a collapse in the final moments saw San Jose level. A point at home is worrisome for Winter, who will be relieved to have a week long break to regroup and refocus. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310128 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310128 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:20:00 EDT Toronto FC’s 1-1 draw on Saturday against the San Jose Earthquakes wasn’t only notable for the fact that it marked another home draw for a side that has struggled to find victories this season, it also marked the return to BMO Field of an original TFC member and a Toronto native who was a fan favourite during pretty much his entire four plus years with the Reds. And while he didn’t see the pitch on Saturday, Canadian International Nana Attakora did indicate after the match that being in the visitor’s dressing room was a strange feeling for the Toronto native. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310118 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310118 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:04:00 EDT While there were a few players who were surprise additions to the Canadian Men’s National Team’s squad for Canada’s first two World Cup qualifying matches to be held during the first week of September, one name that immediately stuck out and then almost just as immediately made complete sense was that of Ante Jazic. With CMNT Head Coach Stephen Hart having opted to work a large number of younger players into his team since he was named as the team’s full-time Head Coach in December 2009, the 35 year old Jazic initially looked like an odd selection until one considered the very significant International experience he brings to the table. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310112 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6310112 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:03:00 EDT Toronto FC 1 – San Jose 1 TFC turned back the clock to 2009 and once again surrendered a late equalizer to the Earthquakes to essentially signal the end of any post-season aspirations. It was far from a dire performance from TFC, but an inability to find the insurance goal coupled with a lapse in concentration on a set piece is the recipe for dropped points at home. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308752 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308752 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:31:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 – Houston Dynamo 0 Has the DeMerit-Rochat central defense era officially begun? Both defenders were pillars of strength and experience in a clean sheet performance that suggested that Vancouver’s inaugural season in the MLS might have turned out a little differently if those players had not missed so many games due to injury. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308751 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308751 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:31:00 EDT The Canadian World Cup squad was named late last week and as expected it’s the strongest squad that could be named. I agree with the approach by Stephen Hart, as the team needs as many matches as possible and need to respond after a horrible Gold Cup campaign. The likes of St. Lucia, Puerto Rico and St. Kitts and Nevis aren’t the strongest of opposition and are largely made of semi professional player so I have full confidence that we will take care of business early with a few matches to spare – although anything can happen in soccer so I don’t want to seem overconfident). With that said it would make no sense to call back our European based players for what are “free” or for lack of a better word “meaningless” matches. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308746 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308746 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:30:00 EDT The floodgates opened for Canadians scoring overseas this past weekend as a handful of Canucks not only won their fixtures, but contributed in the scoreline. Olivier Occean keeps up his pace, and potential future hopefuls for the senior team Tosaint Ricketts and Andrew Ornoch have begun their season tally in the opening weeks of their seasons. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308745 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308745 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:29:00 EDT Montreal Impact 2 Minnesota Stars 0 For the first time in the season, the Montreal Impact has managed to string together three wins by shutout, putting them only three points shy of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers who are holding onto the sixth playoff spot. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308744 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6308744 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:28:00 EDT When the Vancouver Whitecaps played the Houston Dynamo back in April the result they ended up on the losing end of a 3-1 pasting in Texas. With the Caps struggling and enduring a lot of criticism in recent weeks, Vancouver likely went into this home fixture looking for revenge and with a determination to make a statement at home. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6307895 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6307895 Sun, 28 Aug 2011 12:34:00 EDT After finding themselves on a six game unbeaten streak in all competitions heading into the end of August on a fine run - and having defeated Real Salt Lake at home two weeks ago - Toronto FC went into Saturday’s home fixture against the San Jose Earthquakes on a two day game losing streak. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6307345 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6307345 Sun, 28 Aug 2011 02:33:00 EDT I awoke on a Monday morning to a text from former RNO writer Max Bell, now working for the CSA. He asked if I could meet him at BMO Field to help him produce a promo he was putting together in advance of Canada’s World Cup qualifying run. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6306734 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6306734 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 16:17:00 EDT The Game and Its Result:
 Toronto FC had a second shot at FC Dallas in Champions League play, and on the night – well, on the morning really – Toronto did not look like they would disappoint. A much stronger display saw TFC control possession, create chances and pass well amongst themselves. Ultimately, a 1-0 loss isn’t a good thing for Toronto, but the quality of play was better than the night before. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6305752 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6305752 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 22:55:00 EDT The Whitecaps will clash with the Houston Dynamo Saturday, in their last match before a labour day vacation. In the first game between the two sides, a poor second half led to Vancouver losing 3-1 in Houston. In this game Jay DeMerit returned perhaps prematurely from a groin injury, and appeared to re-aggravate it in the first half. This continued a steady stream of injuries the American has suffered from all year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304694 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304694 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:44:00 EDT It’s becoming a case of same old for TFC as once again they are on only one day’s rest before they suit back up and head to the pitch, this time to host the struggling San Jose Earthquakes. Toronto’s postponed Wednesday night Champion’s League tilt against FC Dallas meant an early morning replay all but eliminated an important day of preparation for their next opponent. Fortunately the Reds are up against a team who have not won a game since early June and if there was one team whose defending has been more shocking than Toronto’s, San Jose could be them. In need of a win after an encouraging run of form earlier in the month, this is one of the few opponents left TFC have to look at and go for broke in order to get a rare three league points. They have the horses to run at San Jose, and if they can click offensively and run at the Earthquakes, an important victory can be theirs. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304125 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304125 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:44:00 EDT Men’s Canadian National Team Head Coach has announced his 19-man roster for Canada’s first two World Cup qualifying matches as Canada begins the long road of attempting to qualify for Brazil 2014. The Canadian national team will begin its qualifying campaign against St. Lucia at BMO Field in Toronto on September 2nd and will then head to Puerto Rico for their second fixture on September 6th.

Hart has called up sixteen players who were involved in Canada’s 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup squad, as well as strikers Iain Hume and Olivier Occean and defender Ante Jazic. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304123 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304123 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:42:00 EDT While stories outside of Vancouver are highlighting the fact that the players on the Whitecaps are now in the position where they have to focus on fighting for their jobs for next year, the situation isn’t all that different in Toronto. While much ink has been spilled around the fact that Toronto is still in contention for something via the Champions League, the fact that they are also in last place in the MLS Eastern Conference suggests that not that many of the TFC players should feel that comfortable in renewing an apartment lease for 2012. As the weeks go by quickly heading to the conclusion of the 2011 season, it’s fairly easy to pick out the players who are consistently good week in week out when compared to those that have struggled to find success with Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304122 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304122 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:40:00 EDT There was a sense of Déjà vu hanging over this match, as Toronto FC had once again had an opponent’s 1-0 lead in tournament play wiped by extreme weather on a Wednesday night. In this instance, the situation differed greatly from Toronto’s previous Canadian Championship replay against the Vancouver Whitecaps in that in this instance Toronto and FC Dallas went ahead and replayed the match early the next morning. While the rain and fireworks from the night before had subsided, both teams took to the pitch on hot and muggy morning with the score reset back to zero. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304121 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6304121 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:40:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Canadian International Julian de Guzman to discuss the start of the Canadian National Team’s World Cup qualifying campaign for Brazil 2014. In this interview, De Guzman discusses his fitness heading into Canada’s first World Cup qualifier against St. Lucia, his recent form with Toronto FC, the state of the Canadian midfield given the absence of an injured Atiba Hutchinson, Canada’s first three opponents (St.Lucia, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts and Nevis) in World Cup qualifying, how he balances club and country responsibilities, and the state of mind of some of Canada’s older players heading into what could be their final chance at playing in a World Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6303282 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6303282 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 11:34:00 EDT TFC return home to BMO Field after a disappointing display in Chicago on Sunday to take on FC Dallas in the second fixture of their Champion's League schedule. Once again Toronto barely have a minute to catch a breath before the need to return to the pitch for a critical match. A dire, but important, three-points were earned by the Reds in their opening match against Tauro FC to start off the group stage right. Dallas one-upped them, and all of MLS, by becoming the first team in league history to win in Mexico with their 1-0 victory over Pumas last week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301395 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301395 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:20:00 EDT At 22 years old, Toronto FC forward Peri Marosevic is one of a talented group of young players that Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter has brought together since taking over at the helm of the club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301391 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301391 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:18:00 EDT The last time that Toronto FC went up against FC Dallas the end result was 1-0 loss to a 2010 MLS Cup finalist. While that fixture marked the Major League Soccer debuts of TFC Designated Players Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans, it was Dallas forward Brek Shea who stole the show on that day. Fast forward a month and Toronto is now a revitalized squad after making a number of roster moves and integrating the new players into the TFC system over the last thirty days. And while Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter has the utmost respect for an FC Dallas side that currently sits high up in the MLS table, he is also confident that they will see a much different Toronto FC this time around in the CONCACAF Champions League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301390 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301390 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:17:00 EDT Traveling on Toronto’s subway the other morning, I found myself marveling at a girl. I had to stop myself before I was mistaken for an oogling weirdo. She was alright looking, but that wasn’t it. She was using eyelash curlers. What normally springs to mind when I witness a female of the species performing arduous, fiddly tasks to make her face look as aesthetically pleasing as it allows is: “I’m glad I’m not a girl”. Is that sexist? I don’t know, but I can’t help thinking it. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301389 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301389 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:16:00 EDT In my experience as the Assistant Coach and Fitness Coach of the York University Women’s Varsity Soccer Team from 2009-2011, my greatest challenge was to try to devise a physical training program which was intense enough to challenge – and thereby improve the function of – the aerobic, anaerobic, and musculoskeletal systems, yet at the same time which would not cause adverse effects of overtraining and lead to injuries. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301036 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6301036 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 02:53:00 EDT Toronto FC entered this match high on confidence and a 6-game undefeated streak to their name. With Torsten Frings back in the lineup, Toronto was set up well to take on last place Chicago. Unfortunately, things don’t always work out the way we plan it, and Toronto once again fell to MLS opposition. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6299702 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6299702 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 10:42:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his opinions on Toronto FC's 2-1 win in their CONCACAF Group Stage opener against Tauro FC, the differences in the soccer cultures in Central America and North America, the importance of Torsten Frings to Aron Winter's 3-4-3 system, the recent increase in playing time of TFC Academy graduates Matt Stinson, Ashtone Morgan and Doneil Henry, TFC's loss on the road to the Chicago Fire, former Toronto fullback Dan Gargan, Vancouver's defensive struggles in their loss to the Portland Timbers and the mounting pressure on Whitecaps Head Coach Tom Soehn. Paul also discusses a few of the players that he would like to see Stephen Hart select for Canada's upcoming World Cup qualifiers and where the Canadian Men's National Team should play their future home World Cup qualifiers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6299129 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6299129 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 01:38:00 EDT While most leagues across Europe have begun, or are well into their seasons, until a few more start up, specifically Turkey, there are mixed results for Canadians getting playing time overseas. Added to that is the rumours and possibilty for some moving clubs or signing on in the next few weeks. Players such as Tomasz Radzinski and Patrice Bernier still could be playing in the same leagues they competed in last year, with Radzinski linked to Antwerp last week and Bernier not ruling out the possbility of staying in Denmark despite rumour of him returning to North America. Rob Friend looks to be a few players deep in the depth chart for Hertha Berlin and a loan for his services is sounding realistic for this season. With the senior players comes some news of U17s, as rumours of two attackers, Sadi Jalali potentially joining Bundesliga outfit Kaiserslautern and Keven Aleman currently spending time trialing in Spain. The next few weeks should clear up all of those futures and add to the list of Canadians competing across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6298086 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6298086 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:45:00 EDT Toronto’s six game unbeaten streak ended with a thud in Chicago, as the team looked to be suffering from a combination of fatigue brought on by a heavy travel schedule and the fact the squad is still working things out with their new 3-4-3 formation. While many observers singled out this fixture as the one in which the Reds would finally emerge victorious on the road, the final score line adequately reflected the performance of both teams, with Chicago clearly the better side on this day. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6298080 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6298080 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:44:00 EDT It’s gut check time for the Vancouver Whitecaps. Too few of the Caps players showed up for a Cascadia Cup match in which you would have expected the team to be fighting tooth and nail for at least a point on the road. With two more instances of sloppy defensive play by the Whitecaps staking Portland to an early and comfortable lead, this was a dreary match from a Vancouver standpoint, as the Whitecaps looked disinterested more than anything else. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297589 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297589 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:51:00 EDT With Toronto FC on a six game unbeaten streak in all competitions, the Reds arrived in the Windy City on a confident run of form and looking for their first league road victory of 2011. With the Chicago Fire enduring a terrible season and not having won a league fixture in over two months, this match represented a golden opportunity for the Reds to continue their unbeaten streak and to reinforce the idea that the team has finally turned a corner under Head Coach Aron Winter. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297588 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297588 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:50:00 EDT If the Vancouver Whitecaps have learned one thing this season, it has likely been an affirmation of that truism that there are no easy matches in Major League Soccer. While many might have expected that a fixture against a fellow MLS expansion side would provide a decent opportunity for Vancouver to earn their first ever MLS road victory, Jeld Wen field, the home of the Portland Timbers, has become one of the most imposing places to play in for any team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297587 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297587 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:49:00 EDT The team that has intrigued me the most in the CSL this season has been Montreal Impact Academy. Being the only club in the league based outside the province of Ontario is one reason, but also because it’s a glimpse into the club's future with it being their U21 side. With the Impact joining MLS next season, renovating Stade Saputo and naming a coach with no real track record in Jesse Marsch to lead them in their inaugural campaign has peaked my interest in more ways then one. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297586 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297586 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:49:00 EDT In his book Brilliant Orange, British author David Winner gives an in-depth analysis of the parallels between important characteristics of the Dutch nation and its football culture including its national team, clubs and players. Through interesting perspectives of Dutch architecture, culture, history and society, Winner takes the reader down an interesting road from the infancy of Dutch football, to its greatest heights of the 1974 FIFA World Cup with the likes of Cruyff, Neeskens and Rep to the eventual disaster in 2001 when the Dutch failed to make the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and Korea. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297585 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6297585 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:48:00 EDT Toronto FC have officially kicked off their whirlwind MLS/CONCACAF schedule and head into the windy city for their second stop to take on the struggling Chicago Fire. The Reds are coming off a performance that will be tough to use as an indicator of their current form, but have an opportunity to erase it, move on and forget it ever happened. In TFC’s favour is despite a tough travel schedule, Chicago will be on the same amount of rest with a Thursday night game to level the playing field. Records aside and table positions aside, this game will be decided based on current form, to which Toronto hold the advantage and are in a real position to notch their first road win of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6295356 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6295356 Sat, 20 Aug 2011 09:43:00 EDT Toronto FC, now 4-0-2 in all competitions in their last 6 games, continued their impressive run of form in Panama, defeating Group C opponents Tauro FC 2-1 in Champions League play. Taking three points in Panama, Aron Winter’s side now sit on top of Group C, ahead of Dallas who beat Pumas 1-0 in Mexico. With this result, Toronto FC ‘s confidence grows even more, and as the team gels together, results in CONCACAF become more and more important. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6295355 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6295355 Sat, 20 Aug 2011 09:42:00 EDT Two expansion franchises rekindle on old rivalry in the City of Roses Saturday. That’s when the Vancouver Whitecaps travel to Jeld-Wen field to battle the Portland Timbers. This is the second game for Vancouver in 2011’s version of the Cascadia Cup. In the first installment of this annual grudge match between Portland, Seattle and Vancouver, the Caps faired decently well. Playing in a hostile environment at Quest Field on June 11th, Vancouver drew the Sounders 2-2. In that match the Caps were able to battle back and tie the game in the 85th minute, on what is being described as the goal of the year from Eric Hassli. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6294333 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6294333 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:02:00 EDT The final whistle couldn’t come soon enough and it wasn’t necessarily to ensure Toronto FC would hold on for the win. After Julian De Guzman’s second goal at the 24th minute, the match went into a tailspin and became excruciating to watch. It was a painful display of disorganization on the part of TFC and farcical refereeing that did nothing to remedy the reputation that comes with playing in Central America. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6293868 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6293868 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:14:00 EDT Toronto arrived in Panama City to open their CONCACAF Champions League Group Stage challenge against the perceived minnow in the group in Tauro FC. The Reds likely had only one goal in mind and that was to escape the unfriendly confines of Central America with all three points. While Aron Winter once again chose to field the 3-4-3 tactical formation earned his side a 1-0 league victory against 2010-2011 CONCACAF Champions League Finalists Real Salt Lake, he was also forced to make two changes to his lineup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6293861 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6293861 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:13:00 EDT A form of redemption can be had Thursday night as TFC travel to Panama City to take on Tauro FC in their opening fixture of the CONCACAF Champion's League group stage. A year ago the Reds found themselves in the improbable position of earning three points against Mexico's Cruz Azul, only to squander this advantage by losing to Arabe Unido 1-0. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6291774 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6291774 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:13:00 EDT When Toronto FC traded backup goalkeeper and MLS veteran Jon Conway to the Chicago Fire, for a third round, 49th overall pick in the annual MLS SuperDraft, no one could have predicted what an absolute success their choice would turn out to be. Conway’s departure saw the selection of the young Ecuadorian, Joao Plata, who arrived via a loan deal with MLS. Aron Winter, Bob de Klerk and Paul Mariner’s last minute dealing may have been a minor detail in an otherwise unimpressive talent pool, but signing Plata has not only proved to be a massive success, it has also shown a level of competency in player management by a new Toronto FC coaching staff.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6291773 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6291773 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:12:00 EDT After two seasons of failing to advance to the CONCACAF Champion's League group stage, first by missing the competition all together in 2008, and then losing out to Puerto Rico in 2009, Toronto FC return for their second time in a row to the round-robin phase of the tournament. Last year they were unable to progress past this point, falling behind Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul and eventual finalists Real Salt Lake. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6290277 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6290277 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:54:00 EDT The other day, a couple of blocks from my downtown Toronto home, I strolled up to a chubby teenager donning a black t-shirt which read: “I’M SHY. NOT ANTI-SOCIAL! (YOU CAN TALK TO ME!)”. As I ­­went past he smiled demurely – naturally, given the t-shirt – and carried on walking, in his non-offensive Canadian demeanour. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6290276 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6290276 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:53:00 EDT One of the most well known and knowledgeable figures within the Major League Soccer community, Alexi Lalas is a former American soccer star and a former general manager with the San Jose Earthquakes, New York MetroStars and the Los Angeles Galaxy. He currently works as an analyst for ESPN and ABC sports, providing commentary and analysis on ESPN and ABC’s coverage of Major League Soccer, U.S. Men’s National Team matches and the Barclays Premier League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6290082 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6290082 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 21:47:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his opinions on Toronto FC's 1-0 win over Real Salt Lake, TFC keeper Milos Kocic, Torsten Frings as a centre back, the benefits of a 3-4-3 formation, Vancouver's 4-0 defeat at the hands of D.C. United, the hirings of Martin Rennie and Jesse Marsch as Head Coaches by the Vancouver Whitecaps and Montreal Impact, Tom Soehn and the challenges that Rennie and Marsch will face as they take the head coaching reins at the MLS level. Paul also offers his assessment of Canadian International Patrice Bernier and the value he could bring to one of the Canadian MLS clubs. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6288530 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6288530 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 23:56:00 EDT Ethan Gage joins a small handful of Canadians that are trying to break through at their respective clubs in England for the 2011/12 season. The 2010 Canadian U20 Player of the Year was signed by Reading FC earlier in January and has made his way into the team for their campaign in the Championship. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6288518 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6288518 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 23:35:00 EDT However you want to frame it, TFC earned themselves a huge win Saturday night and legitimately can give confidence into future performances. While Real Salt Lake looked the more polished side, Toronto had the horses to stay in the game and with luck in their corner to finally earn three points against a top MLS side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286825 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286825 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 22:52:00 EDT A 4-0 loss for the Whitecaps on Saturday marked a less than triumphant return to Washington D.C. for former D.C. United Head Coach Tom Soehn, who looks to be stumbling through his short tenure as Vancouver Head Coach. With it already having been announced that Martin Rennie will be taking over as Whitecaps skipper next year, you have to wonder if that announcement will have any effect on how the Vancouver players perform for the lame duck Soehn through the remainder of the 2011 campaign. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286824 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286824 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 22:50:00 EDT What is it that draws everyone from die hard supporters to the most casual of sports fans to tournaments like The F.A Cup and NCAA Tournament, for the most part it’s to see the “Cinderella Story”, that tiny team from the middle of nowhere make a miraculous run against the best in the business. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286823 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286823 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 22:49:00 EDT With the kick-off of the new football season in England, it was high time to get the Across the Pond weekly round-ups started again. While one attacker in England has been making noise for a year now, it is the official Canadian striker Simeon Jackson that will garner a strong following as he looks to make his mark in the Premiership. While some players are still fighting for minutes, in Germany there is a list of Canadians who look like they will be integral parts of their club for the 2011/12 season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286822 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286822 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 22:49:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps arrived at RFK stadium coming off their most decisive victory since their MLS home opener against Toronto FC back in March. In last week’s 4-2 home victory over Chicago, the Whitecaps dominated and looked very much like a team that was finally putting it all together. With that momentum behind them, the Whitecaps were likely quite confident about achieving a road result with a full week to prepare for their fixture against D.C. United, as well as buoyed by the return of team captain Jay DeMerit to the starting eleven. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286227 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6286227 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 11:54:00 EDT Toronto FC 1 Real Salt Lake 0 The Prelude to Battle Fresh off an exciting 3-3 draw which saw a red card, six total goals, a hattrick by De Rosario, and a well-fought draw against DC United, Toronto FC took on former MLS champions Real Salt Lake on Saturday. Real Salt Lake, missing their superstar defender Jamison Olave, fielded a less-than-perfect starting XI; Toronto, in turn, responded with a couple new positional changes – Torsten Frings started at center-back, Julian de Guzman gets the start after his crucial goal in last weeks encounter, and Peri Marosevic was selected ahead of Ryan Johnson – both have been clinical in their goalscoring in their brief appearances for Toronto. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6285713 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6285713 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 01:11:00 EDT The Caps were barely three days removed from registering their first victory since June 18th, when they were making headlines once again. That was when management announced the plan to appoint ex Carolina Redhawks bench boss Martin Rennie, as their head coach at the end of the 2011 campaign. This would be the Caps third coaching change in the calendar year. The Whitecaps began the season with Teitur Thordason at the helm, only to see the Icelandic replaced by Tom Soehn, after a string of poor performances. According to team management, Rennie was being sought after by a number of clubs, which was why the Caps acted now, as opposed to waiting till the end of year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6283527 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6283527 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 09:24:00 EDT TFC have enjoyed a rare moment of reprieve from fixtures and get a much needed rest as they prepare to host Western Conference heavyweights Real Salt Lake on Saturday night. The Reds are coming off a back and forth battle with DC United that further confirmed the offence is now firing on all cylinders, but defensively they are still languishing at square one. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6283188 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6283188 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 03:18:00 EDT With five minutes left in a game that was all in the Montreal Impact’s favour, the team blew a two-goal lead to tie FC Tampa Bay 3-3. In their fourth and last meeting with the Florida team, the Impact had all the momentum on their side but key defensive failures meant a game that was in the bag ended with a draw. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6282647 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6282647 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EDT Another week, another record shattered by Toronto Football Club, and once again, the record in question is broken for all the wrong reasons. In this case, Toronto FC have surpassed the inaugural New York MetroStars in player turnover in a single season, acquiring Eric Avila from FC Dallas and bringing their overall number of players to 36.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6281809 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6281809 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 06:07:00 EDT Now standing beside Europe's most recognizable global cities, Barcelona has risen and emerged over the last decade nearing as popular a destination as London, Paris and Rome. The Catalonia capital has rivaled these three European capitals as an epicentre of architecture, history, art, restaurants, fashion, and with FC Barcelona winning their third Champion's League title in under ten years, surpassed all in football. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6281806 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6281806 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 06:06:00 EDT The Montreal Impact announced on Aug. 10 that former MLS player and assistant coach for the United States Men’s national team Jesse Marsch would be the head coach of the team for the 2012 inaugural season in the MLS. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6280611 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6280611 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:39:00 EDT Earlier today the Vancouver Whitecaps confirmed the rumours that had been swirling around the Canadian soccer community for the last twenty four hours, announcing that up and coming coach Martin Rennie will take over as head coach for the Whitecaps for the 2012 season. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed. Rennie will become Vancouver’s third MLS head coach following the short reins of Teitur Thordarson and Tom Soehn. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6279246 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6279246 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 17:04:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his opinions on Toronto FC's qualification for the Group Stage of the 2011-2012 CONCACAF Champions League, Aron Winter's decision to start keeper Milos Kocic in the second leg Champions League match against Real Esteli, Toronto's chances of making it out of the Champions League Group stage, Toronto FC's 3-3 draw with D.C. United, Dwayne De Rosario's hat trick against TFC, Andy Iro's rough outing against D.C., Julian de Guzman's first goal for Toronto FC, the potential of the Canadian Soccer League, the importance of opening up the Canadian Championship tournament to more lower division clubs, the best career approach for young players in terms of going to college vs. heading to Europe and the Montreal Impact's new logo. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6278380 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6278380 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:21:00 EDT Six matches into his Major League Soccer career with Toronto FC, Torsten Frings has lead his new squad to a record of two wins, two draws and two losses in all competitions during a difficult transition period in which his club has brought in thirteen new players and shipped off seven to other clubs. And given that roster turmoil, the former German International believes that Toronto is genuinely improving while also stating that there are still keys areas of the game in which they must improve dramatically. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6277981 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6277981 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 21:42:00 EDT Toronto FC’s 3-3 tie with DC United sees the Reds fight for a point away from home. Aron Winter’s side is starting to show the kind of resilience and never-say-die attitude that TFC fans will love. A comeback draw against Portland set the stage for this week’s MLS encounter, and Toronto, who hit a bit of fortune early on with the expulsion of DC goalkeeper Bill Hamid. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6277267 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6277267 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 09:21:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Paul discuss his current fitness after recently undergoing arthroscopic surgery, his plans with respect to continuing his professional playing career, Canada’s upcoming World Cup Qualifiers, Canada’s recent performance at the 2011 Gold Cup and his thoughts on becoming Canada’s all-time caps leader. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276888 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276888 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 02:46:00 EDT The Montreal Impact officially unveiled the new logo for next year’s first season in Major League Soccer on Saturday. Following the shield theme of other MLS teams, the Impact’s logo celebrates Quebec’s unique culture. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276831 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276831 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 01:34:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps have been looking for the right mix and tactical approach to maximize their considerable talent for pretty much all of their inaugural MLS campaign. While it should be taken into account that this victory came against one of the weakest sides in the league, Whitecaps fans should still feel pretty good about what was one of the team’s most complete performances of the year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276829 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276829 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 01:33:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer League is nearing its midway point of the season and with just over two months left till the playoffs things are really starting to heat up, here are a few storylines that have developed to this point. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276827 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276827 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 01:31:00 EDT With the good comes the really bad. Another dramatic display from TFC that saw three second half goals nearly end up stealing all three points. But on the flip-side was undisciplined and shoddy defending that resulted in former team captain Dwayne De Rosario putting three past his former team and nearly getting a fourth to win the game in the dying minutes. Overall, it was another performance that shows signs of progress but also is littered with question marks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276775 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276775 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:29:00 EDT Sunday's match pitted the Whitecaps against Eastern basement dwellers the Chicago Fire. The Caps offense were without Mustapha Jarju, as the Gambian was away on international duties. Vancouver elected to start Jay Nolly in net for the first time since the international friendly versus Manchester City. Whitecaps head coach Tom Soehn also gave John Thorrington the start at midfield, who was probably drawing in, due to the absence of Jarju. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276681 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6276681 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:20:00 EDT With De Rosario having scored a goal against the Red Bulls and a brace against another former team in the San Jose Earthquakes over the last couple of weeks, it seemed almost predestined that the Toronto native was going to find some way to hurt Toronto FC in this one. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6275543 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6275543 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 00:44:00 EDT With the Caps tenure at Empire Field coming to a close, games like Sunday’s affair against the Chicago Fire could go along way in erasing the poor memories Vancouverites have had this year at the stadium on Renfrew street. Granted Vancouver’s only two wins have been at home, but a consistent inability to put together a full 90 minute effort is something that has made even the most loyal Caps fan groan. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6275025 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6275025 Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:32:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Dejan discuss D.C. United’s 2011 campaign, Charlie Davies, Ben Olsen, Dwayne De Rosario, his evolution as a player over three years competing in Major League Soccer, the Canadian Men’s National Team and D.C. United’s upcoming match at home against Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6272707 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6272707 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 01:20:00 EDT Toronto FC head into their third match of the week to face off against Eastern Conference rivals, the ascending D.C. United, at RFK Stadium. A field that the Reds have not traditionally done well in, save for last season on the back of Dwayne De Rosario, they now face their former captain and a much stronger side than their last visit at the end of 2010. D.C. has already delivered a humiliating 3-0 thumping at BMO Field and now it’s a chance at redemption for TFC. In their favour is that few players in the home fixture are still around, and the new faces have begun a good run of form over the last two weeks. However, D.C. are a step above the competition faced over the last fourteen days and the hard grind of the last week makes this match, and finding a result, a difficult task. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6272490 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6272490 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 22:55:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Canadian International David Monsalve to discuss his recent signing with FC Edmonton. In this interview, Monsalve discusses his decision to return to play in Canada after a couple of years playing professionally in Finland, how his deal with FC Edmonton came about, what he learned from the experience of playing professionally in Europe, how playing for a Dutch Coach informs his approach to the game as a keeper, how a club like FC Edmonton benefits Canadian soccer and his experiences living and playing in Edmonton thus far. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6271989 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6271989 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:05:00 EDT With the Canadian Men’s National Team having recently learned the specifics surrounding their draw for their 2014 World Cup Qualification cycle, Stephen Hart and the Canadian Soccer Association held a conference call with the media to discuss Hart’s thoughts on the draw and his preparations for first round of World Cup qualifying. With many CMNT supporters quite positive about the fact that Canada will initially face off against world soccer minnows in the form of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Puerto Rico and Saint Lucia, the Canadian Men’s National Team Head Coach indicated that while he is confident of Canada’s chances heading into the opening round of qualification, Canada won’t be taking any team lightly. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6271916 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6271916 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:03:00 EDT Toronto FC’s 4-2 aggregate victory against Nicaraguan opposition sees the Canadian outfit advance into the group stages of the CONCACAF Champions League. Though league success has not come to Toronto, TFC have enjoyed numerous victories and triumphs in CCL play – Aron Winter will look forward to the 6 new added games to further bring his side together.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6270645 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6270645 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 23:23:00 EDT Toronto arrived for this decisive second leg match in Nicaragua having never won a CONCACAF Champions League match away from home. With the team likely fatigued from a very significant travel schedule, but also likely buoyed by a comeback performance in the MLS against Portland on the weekend, Toronto was likely going to be up against both a Real Esteli side with nothing to lose and the usual questionable CONCACAF refereeing. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6269258 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6269258 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 04:38:00 EDT FC Edmonton announced today that they have signed 23 year old Canadian International David Monsalve, who had been on trial with the club and who now immediately joins the first team. A Toronto native, Monsalve brings North American, International and European experience to FC Edmonton. He was capped by the Canadian Men's National Team in 2010 and has previously represented Canada at the U-17, U-18, U-20 and U-23 levels. At the professional level, Monsalve started his playing career in 2007 with Toronto FC, where he earned the distinction of being the youngest keeper ever to compete in an MLS match. Following his time with Toronto, the 6 foot 2 keeper played for two years in Finland with FC Inter Turku, with whom he won the 2009 Finnish Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6268432 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6268432 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:55:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul provides his thoughts on Canada's World Cup Qualifying draw and the Canadian Men's National Team's chances to qualify for Brazil 2014, the hiring of Toronto FC consultant Jurgen Klinsmann as the Head Coach of the U.S. National Team, the Vancouver Whitecaps 4-0 loss to Landon Donovan and the Los Angeles Galaxy, Toronto FC's 2-2 draw on the road against Portland, the potential of a Torsten Frings-Julian de Guzman -Terry Dunfield midfield combination, Toronto's 2-1 victory in the opening of the 2011-2012 CONCACAF Champions League Preliminary Round, Aron Winter's lineup choices against Real Esteli, the proper match environment in which to develop very young Canadian soccer players and Oakville Soccer Club's Long Term Player Development Plans. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267271 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267271 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:06:00 EDT Toronto FC head into hostile footballing territory, better known as Central America, to take on Real Esteli FC in the second leg of their CONCACAF Champion’s League group stage qualifier. The Reds thoroughly dominated the Nicaraguans in the opener, but a Milos Kocic goalkeeping blunder gave Esteli a critical away goal and makes the return match a much more interesting affair. There is no doubt this match will have several question marks surrounding it, however, there is a serious gap in the quality between the two sides. TFC should come into this match prepared to put in a professional display and get the result needed to progress in the tournament. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267270 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267270 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:06:00 EDT In life it can be difficult to qualify why we enjoy certain things and dislike others. Each person is a unique individual in their own right thus its difficult to explain to others why we like chocolate over vanilla or jazz over rock. This same notion holds true for why we love football. Indeed, at times it is difficult to explain to others why we love football. In the end, we love it because well, we just love it. It’s as simple as that. However in this sometimes hostile-to-football world we live in, it can be useful to qualify the reasons of why we love the game. Thus, in this light, I have sought to identify my own five reasons as to why I love this sport. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267267 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267267 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:02:00 EDT While it was their biggest defeat of the season, Vancouver’s loss to Western Conference superpower the Los Angeles Galaxy was very much still a match in which the home side delivered some intriguing and positive developments. For an hour, this one was a tossup that either team could have won. Some bumbling defensive mistakes by the Whitecaps opened the door to the match becoming a rout for the visitors, which ultimately concealed the fact that the home side looked more potent offensively for the first sixty minutes. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267266 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267266 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:01:00 EDT Montreal Impact 1 Puerto Rico Islanders 0 The newly transformed Montreal Impact took on the Puerto Rico Islanders at home on July 31. Since sporting director Nick De Santis stepped in as interim head coach in June, the Impact brought back retired striker Eduardo Sebrango, also adding midfielders Ryan Pore and Ian Westlake as well as defender Cameron Knowles. A late-in-the-game ejection of Puerto Rico Islander Yaikel Perez led the Impact to capitalize, scoring the only goal of the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267265 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6267265 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:01:00 EDT As was the case Wednesday night against Real Esteli, a positive result is left with question marks and clear signs there is still a lot of work left to be done. Despite this, the Reds put forth one of their most inspiring displays since the LA Galaxy away fixture, and perhaps for the first time this season there is clear evidence that the right mix of players are on the field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6266412 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6266412 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 11:19:00 EDT With the general consensus among supporters being that Toronto FC has made life a lot harder for themselves due to the away goal that they conceded to Nicaraguan side Real Esteli in the opening leg of their Champions League Preliminary Round, Toronto forward Ryan Johnson and his teammates are confident that will get the job done in the away match and will qualify for the group stage of the tournament. With many pointing to the fact that Toronto failed to finish the majority of the chances they generated on Wednesday night while also conceding an away goal to a less than imposing side, the Jamaican International took the number of scoring opportunities his side created as a very positive sign. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265804 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265804 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 01:12:00 EDT Yesterday I sat and watched the entirety of the World Cup Qualifying draw and as each country was drawn in each region I had more than a few fistpumps of joy. But nothing compared to the draw for Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265747 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265747 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:22:00 EDT Toronto FC’s performance against Portland had its highs and lows. There’s no doubt about that. In a single game, Aron Winter’s side demonstrated the things that have given some fans their reasons to be overly optimistic about the side and in the same game demonstrated the things that gave a separate set of fans their reasons to be overly pessimistic. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265707 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265707 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:22:00 EDT The more the season progresses, the more common trends continue to occur in every match the Vancouver plays in. This fixture versus the MLS leading Los Angeles Galaxy, was supposed to be a good measuring stick to see if the Caps could continue the momentum that saw them pick up a hard fought 2-2 draw last game against the San Jose Earthquakes. However, this game had a familiar ebb and flow. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265098 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265098 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 12:48:00 EDT A ‘never-say-die’ performance gives a glimpse into what Toronto’s offence has to offer, but defending remains an area of concern that continues to drag the team down. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265097 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6265097 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 12:47:00 EDT Vancouver are coming off some much needed rest after not playing since July 20th’s 2-2 draw in San Jose. In the match they were able to fight back from two one goal deficits, thanks to a brace from Eric Hassli. The draw earned midfielder Shea Salinas and Head Coach Tom Soehn places on the MLS Team of the Week, for Week 19. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6262739 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6262739 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:32:00 EDT As much as TFC need a 'W', and 2-1 usually would be something to celebrate, an unconvincing scoreline will hurt Toronto in the short-term as Aron Winter now will have tough roster decisions with the games ahead. Spark and Andre go over the win, but how it impacts the approach of Portland and the return leg against Real Esteli and where the team is sitting at this point of the campaign. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6262707 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6262707 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:10:00 EDT Toronto FC grinds through the dog days of summer, and with it is an unrelenting schedule of two-a-week games as they head into their fourth in the last fourteen days. The Reds are up against the Portland Timbers, who began their inaugural MLS campaign slow out of the gates, but quickly got their feet under them once they started playing home games at Jeld-Wen Park. They are on a bit of a skid as of late, losing four in five, but fortunately for them the trend this season has been Toronto FC are good for what ails you. Having troubling winning on the road? Come to BMO Field! Can't find the back of the net? TFC will remedy that! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6262000 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6262000 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:39:00 EDT Toronto FC record their first win in a long time, giving both fans and players a bit of hope looking forward in the Champions League. Aron Winter will now look to the return trip in Nicaragua with high expectations for his side, who hold a 2-1 lead. 

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261999 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261999 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:38:00 EDT Is the glass half full or half empty? That’s the question many Toronto FC supporters are likely asking themselves after the opening leg of TFC’s CONCACAF Champions League matchup against Real Esteli. While TFC delivered their most dominant performance of the season in terms of possession and chances created, they will now head to Nicaragua with a smaller advantage than many had predicted. With the Reds creating many scoring opportunities but not converting many, the type of defensive breakdown that has been the downfall of the Season V once again reared its ugly head and planted seeds of doubt that Toronto will emerge victorious over two legs against a less than formidable side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261995 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261995 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:37:00 EDT Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter wasn’t kidding when he suggested that further roster moves were still possible following a recent blockbuster week of trades that saw Nana Attakora, Alan Gordon, Jacob Peterson and Tony Tchani head out and Andy Iro, Leandre Griffit, Ryan Johnson and Terry Dunfield join TFC. In a move that wasn’t a huge surprise, Toronto FC announced today that defender/midfielder Dan Gargan has been traded along with a second round pick in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft to the Chicago Fire for defender Dasan Robinson. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261480 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261480 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 12:54:00 EDT I often write half an article only to pause and not know where I'm going with it. Subsequently, those articles die, primarily because my feelings calm and the rage subsides.Tonight is not one of those nights. Toronto FC, for all of the brilliance of Joao Plata, for all the dominance for the majority of the match against Real Esteli, still failed to get the result it needed. Yes, it defeated Real Esteli and by TFC standards, that's a good result, especially this season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261454 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6261454 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 12:42:00 EDT In the first of two games in which TFC has a chance to salvage something of substance from their season, Toronto arrived back at BMO Field for the first leg of their 2011/12 CONCACAF Champions League Preliminary Round in a position they haven’t occupied very often this season: that of the favourite. With most of the Central American leagues between seasons and with players not yet fully match fit, anything less than a convincing result against Real Esteli was going to be a major disappointment. With TFC only still in the MLS playoff chase mathematically, many have been calling for Toronto to prioritize the Champions League and expected Aron Winter to field a first choice lineup against the Nicaraguan club. Well, once again Winter proved he isn’t going to kowtow to anyone, at least in terms of his lineup choices. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6260881 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6260881 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 01:21:00 EDT With rumours and innuendo swirling around the possible signing of Owen Hargreaves by the Vancouver Whitecaps in recent weeks, a much sounder choice seems to have presented itself for British Columbia’s premier soccer club. With reports out of Montreal stating that Vancouver is currently in talks with Canadian International and free agent Patrice Bernier, it’s hard not to see Bernier as a better option than the much maligned Hargreaves to fill the role of a top quality veteran midfielder for the Whitecaps. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6259473 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6259473 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:44:00 EDT It is the first of what could be Toronto FC's most important two games of the season. After winning the Nutrilite Cup through a rare exceptional performance, the next step in qualifying to the CONCACAF Champion's League begins Wednesday against Nicaragua's Real Estali. TFC are in the same fortunate position as they were against Motagua last year in that most Central American leagues are between seasons and players not yet fully match fit. With the key to victory coming down to how these sides match up player for player, this is really the one match this year that TFC can go into and should by all accounts soundly defeat their opponent. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6259472 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6259472 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:44:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul takes no prisoners in providing his thoughts on the resignation of Carolina Morace, the manner in which the Canadian Soccer Association should go about making a crucial hiring to replace her and his general thoughts on being an impartial media analyst with strong, thoughtful, honest and informed opinions. Paul also discusses FC Dallas Head Coach Schellas Hyndman, Livestrong Sporting Park, Owen Hargreaves and Whitecaps midfielder Gershon Koffie. He also breaks down the performances of Toronto FC in their losses to FC Dallas and Sporting KC and the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-2 draw with the San Jose Earthquakes. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6258059 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6258059 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:07:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Canadian International Terry Dunfield to discuss his recent trade from the Vancouver Whitecaps to Toronto FC. Always candid, Dunfield discusses his move from Vancouver to Toronto, the status of the injury that has prevented him from making his TFC debut thus far, how he might fit into TFC Head Coach Aron Winter’s midfield, the opportunity to play with Torsten Frings and Julian de Guzman and his chance to compete in the CONCACAF Champions League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6257973 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6257973 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 22:44:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Heiko Oldoerp of the German Press Agency. In this interview, Heiko discusses Toronto FC Designated Player Torsten Frings, the former Werden Bremen midfielder’s first match in the MLS, the influence of German legend Jurgen Klinsmann on Frings decision to sign with TFC, the reaction to his move to North America back in Germany and what Toronto FC fans can expect from the former German International. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6256805 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6256805 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 02:54:00 EDT The waiting game continues and is in full effect for TFC as another disjointed, out-of-sync display puts them further and further away from the post-season picture. Although, considering Aron Winter does not appear to have that as a realistic goal for this season, any level of team competitiveness, cohesion and unity would be ideal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6256804 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6256804 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:25:00 EDT After losing 1-0 to FC Dallas in their first match after radically restructuring their roster over the last couple of weeks, Toronto FC went on the road in search their second win in 13 games and their first under the on the pitch leadership of Torsten Frings. Whether or not Livestrong Sporting Park is the second coming of Rio Tinto Stadium, there would be little argument from most pundits that defeating Sporting Kansas City was going to be a tall order indeed. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6255711 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6255711 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 01:08:00 EDT It’s often been said that one of the hardest parts about being a professional athlete in North America is having to deal with the fact that players can be traded and sent packing to another part of the continent at a moment’s notice. Such was the case for Ryan Johnson, who last week resided in California as a member of the San Jose Earthquakes and who this week now finds himself making a new home for himself in Toronto as a member of Toronto FC. While these types of midseason trades can often be a major disruption and inconvenience, Johnson is actually relishing the fresh start that Toronto presents. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6254096 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6254096 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:38:00 EDT There's no time to lose for TFC as they immediately head into another MLS fixture Saturday night to take on the rejuvinated and home-field-happy Sporting Kansas City. After a week and a half of no games, Toronto now goes through a slew of matches and for a team who are looking to establish some cohesion with all of the new faces, it will come through, or at the expense of league matches. The Reds will be doing a two-a-week for the next fourteen days and that could extend into the fall. Kansas City finally will be looking to reap the rewards of a home field run now that Livestrong Park is finally built. With no time to put in a hard practice, it is not a stretch to say TFC will look very similar to their outing against FC Dallas, and against a KC side now enjoying homefield advantage, this does not look like the breakthrough match for the new Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6253679 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6253679 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 09:40:00 EDT While it wasn’t a performance that resulted in Vancouver’s first MLS road victory, the Whitecaps draw against San Jose on the road on Wednesday was a two goal performance that suggested that the team offence will shift into a second gear in the final three months of the season. With both DeMerit and Rochat not fit to play and Jordan Harvey suspended, a patchwork back line was all that stood between the Whitecaps and victory on this day. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6253056 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6253056 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 23:04:00 EDT After what likely seemed like an eternity to long suffering TFC fans, Wednesday’s midweek fixture at BMO Field against FC Dallas finally allowed supporters the opportunity to finally see what the team’s new Designated Players Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans would bring to the pitch. And with the club making three trades since Toronto’s previous match against Houston, Frings and Koevermans weren’t the only new players in the squad. While recently acquired Canadian International Terry Dunfield was not fit for this fixture, Ryan Johnson, Andy Iro and Eddy Viator were all in the starting lineup alongside the team’s new DP’s. Toronto’s third Designated Player Julian de Guzman was not available due to an injury. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6251685 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6251685 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 01:21:00 EDT Covering the CSL this season has personally been a really good experience overall, I only knew about the league from watching a few games on Rogers TV last season and from a distance I liked what I saw. Since getting a closer look I have mixed feelings, on the positive side I love watching and interacting with players from the CSL Second Division and really enjoy some of the stories of US Collegiate scholarships, loans and trials to teams abroad, national team call ups and youth development. That being said the lack of league wide marketing/advertising; inconsistent officiating and structuring of player contracts (of the players that do get paid) are some of the factors that leave a sour taste in my mouth. However there is one question that baffles me and leaves me in a state of confusion and it is where does the CSL fit in the Canadian Soccer Hierarchy? (Which in its self is unofficial). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250758 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250758 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 09:53:00 EDT Short layoffs seem to be a trend on the Whitecaps schedule. Following the friendly versus Manchester City, the Caps will be playing the San Jose Earthquakes on Wednesday. The Caps are coming off of a 2-1 loss, in that fixture versus Manchester City. In the game the Caps held a 1-0 halftime lead thanks to a goal by Camilo. Head Coach Tom Soehn opted to throw on all of his horses in the first half, and when the teams switched ends, Manchester City began dominating the run of play. Following a John Guidetti tying goal in the 68th minute, the stage was set for a sublime game winner. City’s Shaun Wright Phillips scored what can only be described as a world class goal, with a 30 yard strike in the 84th minute. This goal all but sealed the victory for the visiting squad. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250489 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250489 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 06:17:00 EDT After a debilitating double loss against both New York and Houston, Toronto FC come off from a midseason break to take on FC Dallas. Normally, a midseason encounter with western opposition doesn’t draw much attention, but for Toronto FC fans, the Wednesday encounter sees both Danny Koevermans and Torsten Frings finally suiting up for their newest club side. With fresh blood and new leadership in the midfield and forward positions, Toronto FC must start producing, if post-season glories are to be attained. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250459 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250459 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 05:26:00 EDT It’s finally here. All the chocolates have been eaten in the TFC Advent calendar and the day has arrived when Danny Koevermans and Torsten Frings will suit up in red. This day has been circled since June 29, however the asterisk in their first match in front of home supporters is that it will be against perennial Western Conference contenders FC Dallas. TFC have badly needed quality improvements and impact players and now they have two that will greatly increase their competitiveness. They will need it Wednesday night against Dallas and with an injection of not just quality, but optimism, two weeks ago this game would have likely been tagged likely as a loss, but now can be viewed with the genuine potential of a positive result. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250121 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6250121 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 23:09:00 EDT This was a friendly for the ages. Another first for the MLS version of the Vancouver Whitecaps. Monday’s tilt against Manchester City, pitted a struggling Caps squad against the reigning FA Cup Champs. The Whitecaps lineup showed a bit of a different look as Jay Nolly was back in the starting 11 fully recovered from his foot tendon injury. They also played with three at the back for the first time all year. This was to make room for what could be a new dangerous trifecta offensively. Eric Hassli and new signing Mustapha Jaju were side by side at striker, with Camilo at his usual spot on the left. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6249476 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6249476 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:02:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul provides further elaboration and commentary on his candid and thought provoking article, Politics rule in a weak Canadian Soccer Nation. He also breaks down Vancouver's signing of Designated Player Mustapha Jarju and their trade of Terry Dunfield. Paul also provides detailed commentary on the three trades that Toronto FC made this past week, as Aron Winter looks to continue his rebuild of TFC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6248672 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6248672 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 01:37:00 EDT It’s another round of Counter Attack: Toronto FC Edition. This time we're focusing on the Reds, their signings and what we expect down the final third of the 2011 Season. It's been a lacklustre campaign for TFC and all the hoopla around Jurgen Klinsmann and subsequently the arrival of Aron Winter were filled with promise. There have been polarizing views on the state of the club over the last few months, but since the signings of Danny Koevermans and Torsten Frings, followed by another round of trades last week, there is definitely discussions to be had on where this team is going. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6248671 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6248671 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 01:36:00 EDT It was a fight for the Montreal Impact to retain their seventh place position in the eight-team NASL at Saputo Stadium on Sunday, with the home team taking on the Atlanta Silverbacks in the sweltering 30-degree heat. A win for Atlanta would give them 11 points, tying them with Montreal as the last team in the standings. The Impact managed to prevent such a fate by scoring in extra time to a 2-2 tie. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6247775 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6247775 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:46:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Paul discuss his thoughts on the Vancouver Whitecaps first half season in Major League Soccer, the recent trade of Terry Dunfield from the Whitecaps to Toronto FC, Vancouver rookie Russell Teibert, depth at the goalkeeper position for the Canadian Men’s National Team, Canada’s performance the 2011 Gold Cup, Canada U-17 keeper Maxime Crepeau, the challenges inherent in competing in the CONCACAF region, playing for Canada at 1986 World Cup and Umbro’s plans for the Canadian kit for Canada’s centenary year in 2012. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6247253 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6247253 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 01:42:00 EDT Euro 2004, Quarterfinals, Netherlands vs. Portugal, fifty-ninth minute, Portugal is up one goal. Cristiano Ronaldo takes a short corner and delivers it to Maniche on the edge of the box, Maniche hardly looks and strikes a wonder shot curling around the far post, somehow missing everybody including Dutch keeper Edwin van de Sar. This would be a pivotal moment in my life. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6247045 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6247045 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 22:11:00 EDT With questions abounds on Thursday from Toronto FC wheeling and dealing to create a logjam in an already crowded midfield, the picture became a bit clearer on Friday with another trade that looks to be one of still more to come. It cannot be argued against that changes needed to be made, however, with six new players coming in and signs of more, Toronto will be forced to go through a period of awkwardness and unfamiliarity before they come together as a team and put forth any kind of legitimate competitiveness. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6245041 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6245041 Sat, 16 Jul 2011 11:12:00 EDT For a second straight week the Caps have tinkered with their roster. The first significant move was bringing in striker Mustapha Jarju on Tuesday, who became the first African footballer to be signed as a designated player. Last season in Belgium, the Gambian international helped his squad RAEC De Mons get promoted out of the second division. It’ll be interesting to see how the Jarju/Hassli partnership works up front. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6244409 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6244409 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 22:14:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Canadian forward/midfielder Robbie Tice as he settles in with his new club, Norwegian side Kjelsås IL. At 20 years old, the White Rock, British Columbia native is a promising young player who has already completed three professional seasons in Europe while playing in Scotland, England and Norway. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6243108 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6243108 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 01:13:00 EDT With both of the Canadian MLS clubs having suffered through less than sparkling campaigns through the first half of the campaign, it’s not a huge surprise that both Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps have elected to make mid-season roster changes. In fact, Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter was downright blunt in promising it after a couple of recent losses. That said, it is hard to look at the trades made by the Canadian MLS teams without looking at them as curious moves made by each club’s management teams, at least on the surface or first glance. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6243107 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6243107 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 01:12:00 EDT Montreal Impact 1 Ft. Lauderdale 1 The Impact began the second half of the regular season in seventh place of eight in the NASL and without a win in six games. With a ten-day break between losing 2-0 to the Carolina RailHawks and taking on the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at home, the Impact came out strong but managed to come away with a 1-1 draw. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6243106 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6243106 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 01:11:00 EDT Ten Books That Screwed up the World and Five others that didn’t Help, ruthlessly exposes the absurdity of some of the worlds’ most destructive books. The opening chapter is a damning critique of a manuscript which is mandatory reading for most first year political science students. The name of the referenced book in this first chapter is The Prince whose thesis, encapsulated, espouses that good is bad while bad is good. Expanded, it promotes honesty as being naïve, cutting corners as being smart, while being sly, undermining, and two faced is encouraged as rational modus operandi. The ethos of Politics! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6241445 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6241445 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:58:00 EDT Since changing the name from “CSL Reserve League” to “CSL Second Division” the Canadian Soccer League have made a few changes in order to raise competitive levels and help with youth development. One of these changes have been to add three new clubs, these clubs are KW United FC from Kitchener-Waterloo, Prospect FC from Kingston and the focus of this article Niagara United from Niagara Falls. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6241444 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6241444 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:57:00 EDT In the up and down first four months that has been Season V for Toronto FC, one player who has recently started to display an impressive and steady run of form for the Reds after a rough start with his new club is Nathan Sturgis. A lot was expected of the former Seattle Sounders midfielder after he was acquired for Toronto's first pick in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft and his first season with Toronto ultimately began with more time on the bench and in the press box than it did on the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6241443 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6241443 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:56:00 EDT After weeks of rumours linking the Whitecaps with chronically injured, and hated in Canada, England International Owen Hargreaves, Vancouver appear to have made another sound Designated Player signing in the form of Gambian striker Mustapha Jarju. At only 24 years old, the player who goes by the nickname Toubabo breaks the common mold of a Designated Player that has left their best days in the past while still bringing some name recognition and potential marketing panache. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6240241 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6240241 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 06:09:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Canada’s loss to Nigeria in their final match at the FIFA Women's World Cup, Carolina Morace, Even Pellerud, Toronto FC's losses on the road to the New York Red Bulls and Houston Dynamo, the return to fitness of Alan Gordon, Stefan Frei, Vancouver's losses to the Columbus Crew and the Colorado Rapids, Omar Salgado, Jordan Harvey and the Paul's picks for which players should start up front and in the midfield for Toronto FC when new Designated Players Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermanns are eligible to play on July 20th. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6238491 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6238491 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:39:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Milan discuss his thoughts on his transfer to Sivasspor of the Turkish Super Lig, his ongoing development as a young keeper, the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the Canadian Men’s National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6237016 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6237016 Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:19:00 EDT The “Beautiful Game” in Canada is an ever-changing landscape; this is an even truer statement when talking about soccer in Ontario. When thinking about soccer in this province first thoughts might lean to Toronto: they have a professional team in the highest tier of North America, have various soccer clubs, academies and events throughout the city and have a huge pool of talent to work with. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236972 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236972 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 23:06:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 – Colorado Rapids 2 If the Whitecaps were indeed playing below their capabilities back when they had Hassli, Chiumiento, Dunfield and DeMerit all contributing to the top of their abilities, the Whitecaps now find their star depleted squad punching above their weight and just falling short in terms of finding a way to win. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236971 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236971 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 23:05:00 EDT Houston Dynamo 2 – Toronto FC 0 The only good thing about Toronto FC that can be said after their 2-0 defeat is that at least the score wasn’t a 5-0 bloodbath like the fans who turned in for the Red Bulls match were forced to endure. Other than that, this one was another one of those TFC performances that makes you wonder if the club is ever going to turn the corner. The injuries on the back line are well documented and they played a role in this loss to an opponent that could have been defeated with an improved performance. On the offensive end, the Toronto forwards might as well have had all their faces placed on a milk carton. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236970 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236970 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 23:05:00 EDT Upon the announcement of the starting eleven for this tilt, it was not surprising to see Jordan Harvey getting a start for the Caps on their backline. With the new addition manning a left fullback position, Jonny Leathers moved to his natural spot at right back. In the midfield Michael Nanchoff got his first start of the year, as it looks like Whitecaps coach Tom Soehn would rather pick people out of the press box, than place Terry Dunfield in the starting lineup. Midfielder Nizar Khalfan was awarded his second straight start, which was fitting as he was one of the stronger Caps on Wednesday night. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236633 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236633 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:24:00 EDT Toronto FC’s playoff drive essentially began with today’s road fixture against the Houston Dynamo. With games on the schedule dwindling down and winning on the road always difficult in the MLS, Toronto was going to need to dig deep and deliver an effort that would provide the team with it’s first victory on the road this season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236269 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6236269 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 11:44:00 EDT Saturday, with Vancouver on the road in Colorado, the Caps back line could have a new face in the lineup. On Thursday Whitecaps management addressed a major need, one day after a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Columbus. Former Philadelphia left back Jeff Harvey was acquired in exchange for allocation money. This move could be due to the fact that Jay DeMerit continues to be shelved by his groin injury. With the captain out of the lineup, Head Coach Tom Soehn tends to favor moving outside back Alain Rochat over to the middle leaving a vacancy for Harvey. Harvey was on a stingy backline in Philly and is excited at the prospect of playing for the expansion team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233734 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233734 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:49:00 EDT It is now official. My prediction in earlier column about Canada finishing as a top 4 team at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup has been proven off base. This prediction had been based on the range of consecutive strong playoffs since 2002 - the last one being 5th place Olympic finish in 2008 - and the fact that Canada's team is in its prime age for performance – and, of course, first and foremost, on the more recent wonderful stories about the team's "turn around". http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233443 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233443 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:27:00 EDT There is little to no time to dwell on Toronto FC’s most recent debacle as they have to head into a historically tough venue to take on the Houston Dynamo. With few words left to describe the performance or display put out against New York it will be interesting to see how Aron Winter is able to get his players to refocus and prepare mentally to take on the Dynamo. In this opponent, the Reds are being handed a relatively good match-up to bounce back from a horrible loss, in that Houston, while fifth, are only two points ahead of TFC and only have one more win. However, on the flipside, TFC would appear to be the perfect opponent for Houston regain some form after only notching one win in their last five games. On the surface, three days would appear too little time for TFC to come up with anything to avenge their recent defeat and will have to dig deep to leave the Lone Star State with any points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233136 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233136 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 07:36:00 EDT The Whitecaps have to be scratching their heads in an exasperated fashion after falling at home to the Columbus Crew after dominating play for much of the match. With Vancouver missing probably their top three key players in Eric Hassli, Davide Chiumiento and Jay DeMerit, the entire of starting eleven played a spirited and composed match in which they deserved at least a draw and probably all three points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233131 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6233131 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 07:35:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 0 Columbus Crew 1 It was a familiar story at Empire Field, as the Whitecaps once again suffered from the same problems that have plagued the side all year. Granted they were playing shorthanded in the match as this was a starting 11 already without DeMerit and Chiumiento. Add to that the absence of Eric Hassli and this was a team without a gamebreaker. Omar Salgado took Hassli’s place in the lineup. Salgado could be the one player that has fond memories of the last time Columbus faced Vancouver in Columbus as he registered his first MLS goal on a header in the April 30th contest. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6232075 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6232075 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:31:00 EDT No, I'm not referring to the band that sang Absolutely (Story of a Girl). I'm referring to how long it is until July 15th. That's when the transfer window opens and Aron Winter has an opportunity to bring a new centreback (as well as his new designated players) in. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6231064 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6231064 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 01:28:00 EDT New York Red Bulls 5 Toronto FC 0 The Prelude to Battle Toronto FC didn’t have a whole lot of time to celebrate their 3rd consecutive Canadian Championship, as the team had only a couple of days rest before they had fly to New York to take on one of the powerhouses in the MLS. This one was set up going in as the top offense in the MLS in the New York Red Bulls going up against a TFC side that has conceded the most goals in the league. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6230951 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6230951 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 23:44:00 EDT In case you've missed it: it's been a year of near complete disappointment for Canadian soccer. I say near, because the Canadian U-17s performed admirably in the U-17 World Cup and FC Edmonton seems to be performing admirably at the Division 2 level in North America. But outside of these two anomalies, Canadian soccer has been hit with devastating result after devastating result this year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6230092 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6230092 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 11:40:00 EDT While Joao Plata has rightly been drawing many of the plaudits lately due to the central role that the rookie forward played in TFC winning their third straight Canadian Championship tournament, Aron Winter and Richard Eckersley also deserve major pats on the back for the parts they played in Toronto winning a trophy in a season that has not been marked by very many victories of note. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229772 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229772 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 06:43:00 EDT The Caps are coming off of a tough week that saw them drop two games to TFC, with the latter being an especially bitter pill to swallow as it was for the Nutrilite Canadian Championship. Holding an early 1-0 edge after Camilo beat Red’s keeper Stefan Frei with a masterful free kick, but following the 30th minute Vancouver fell apart and ultimately lost 2-1. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229770 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229770 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 06:42:00 EDT he Canadian Champions have a quick turnaround after defending their title and now must take a quick flight down to New Jersey to take on the New York Red Bulls. TFC are riding a wave of confidence after back-to-back wins over the Vancouver Whitecaps and with reinforcements on the way, are looking to impress their incoming Designated Players. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229769 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229769 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 06:42:00 EDT Nigeria 1 Canada 0 The Prelude to Battle After a disastrous performance in a loss last Thursday that ended Canada’s run at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Canadian Women’s National Team regrouped for their final match of the Group Stage. In a match that pitted the CONCACAF Champions against the African Champions, both Canada and Nigeria entered this one looking for redemption after being eliminated due to losing their first two matches. 

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229768 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6229768 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 06:40:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Canada’s devastating loss to France and elimination from the FIFA Women's World Cup, Carolina Morace, Toronto FC's victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final match of the 2011 Canadian Championship, Toronto's signing of Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans as Designated Players, the trading of Dwayne De Rosario from the New York Red Bulls to D.C. United and the Canadian players that Paul would have most liked to have played with during his Hall of Fame playing career. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6227803 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6227803 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 02:21:00 EDT When Toronto FC announced two new designated player signings – Torsten Frings from Werder Bremen and Danny Koevermans from PSV Eindhoven – the city fell in love with the former, the German international midfielder, scorer of cracking goals, infamous for being public enemy numero uno for some time in the USMNT camp. German fever spread quickly, as ads for Frings jerseys – at a premium, by the way – found themselves posted on Toronto’s official website, up for grabs to a fanbase hungry for successful players. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6227578 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6227578 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 22:41:00 EDT When looking at the fortunes of Canada’s two Major League Soccer clubs over the last week or so, it is amazing to see how quickly fortunes can change in sports. Heading into a league fixture and the rescheduled second leg of the Canadian Championship tournament against Toronto FC last week, the Vancouver Whitecaps very much appeared like the Canadian side that was in ascendency, while TFC looked like a struggling club with a talent deficit and a fan base that was losing interest. Fast forward a week and a genuine positive energy seems to have returned to Toronto FC following two victories, including a 3rd straight Canadian Championship, while the Whitecaps are now the team smarting from two straight losses to their Canadian cousins. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6226759 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6226759 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 11:47:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Russell discuss his thoughts on his first half season in the MLS, the Vancouver Whitecaps Residency Program, his role under new Whitecaps Head Coach Tom Soehn, playing with Eric Hassli and Alain Rochat and the signing of his first professional contract. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6226074 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6226074 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 02:08:00 EDT After a few weeks in which it was starting to look like the Vancouver Whitecaps were putting it all together, the 'Caps have undoubtedly taken a step back in a very poor effort in a crucial match that decided the Canadian Championship tournament. If this performance highlighted anything, it was probably just how fundamental Davide Chiumiento is to the Whitecaps offense. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225866 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225866 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 22:39:00 EDT Toronto FC might not have defied all the odds, but certainly put forth a display of football that will become a beacon of optimism to get supporters through what has been a rough first half of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225865 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225865 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 22:38:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer League takes it’s fair share of criticism and to be fair most of it is justified, but one aspect that they have got spot on has been the re-branded “CSL Second Division” formerly known as the “CSL Reserve League”. I wanted to take this opportunity to give its clubs and players some much needed love and support, as it’s also where I do the bulk of my work with Brampton City United FC and really enjoy how they are growing, developing and playing with passion. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225856 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225856 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 22:29:00 EDT The fourth edition of the established Nutrilite Canadian Championship, and the tenth awarding of the Voyageurs' Cup has gone to Toronto FC. By the end of the 2nd leg, three key factors stood out in why Vancouver failed to get the result they needed in Toronto. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225853 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6225853 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 22:24:00 EDT After almost nine weeks since the commencement of the 2011 Nutrilite Canadian Championship tournament, it all came down to todays’s final (rescheduled) fixture between Canada’s two Major League Soccer clubs. While a mere seven days ago it appeared Vancouver was the team coming into this match with all of the momentum, today’s game ultimately presented a match between two equally matched sides that were both missing key players. This one looked like it was going to be an old fashioned guts and glory match in which the team that truly wanted to more was going to come away with the trophy, Canadian bragging rights and a place in the CONCACAF Champions League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6224186 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6224186 Sat, 02 Jul 2011 21:55:00 EDT It’s like déjà vu all over again. NCC final and deciding game the redux, and looking at the weather forecast we could be in for third time’s a charm when it comes to finally completing this fixture. Regardless, all the chips are on the table for this one as both Toronto and Vancouver’s seasons could rest on this one match. The winner can, at the end of the year when most likely they have missed the playoffs, look back and say at least they won something significant. There is no doubt about it, the gamble of putting out a weaker side may have backfired for Vancouver as TFC look buoyed by not only their win, but two Designated Players joining the club that will give them massive push. With both sides fielding a much stronger line-up than Wednesday’s game, the quality of the match should be much improved and while Vancouver still hold the edge in terms of quality players, TFC look to have the intangibles that should give them the edge and their third straight Canadian title. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221899 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221899 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 12:27:00 EDT In the first game since Marc Dos Santos handed in his resignation as head coach, the Montreal Impact took on third-seeded Puerto Rico Islanders on June 29 at Saputo Stadium. The even-keeled match ended in a nil-nil draw with a nail-biter ending in stoppage time. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221420 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221420 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 05:27:00 EDT After an inspiring effort in defeat against Germany in their opening match at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, win or go home time arrived for Canada much earlier than the side truly deserved. With France having won their opening Group A fixture against Nigeria, Canada’s second group match ultimately became the match which would determine whether or not the much heralded Canadian team would make it through to the Knockout stages. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221406 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221406 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 05:19:00 EDT The first ever league match played in Toronto between two Canadian MLS clubs was fairly underwhelming considering the circumstances. With the rescheduled second leg of the Canadian Championship final only days away, this was a match that felt very much like the calm before the storm. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221404 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221404 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 05:18:00 EDT Aron Winter walks into his office after the game, perhaps pours himself a glass of whiskey, and counts to three on his hand. A full three points, at last. The last win seems like ages ago, but for Winter and Toronto FC, a victory in the NCC prelude match is a huge sigh of relief. 

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221403 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6221403 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 05:18:00 EDT On a historic day in which Toronto FC announced the signing of not one, but two designated players in the forms of Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans, this fixture also marked the first ever time that two Canadian MLS clubs faced each other in Toronto at BMO Field. With the rescheduled second leg of the Canadian Championship looming on Saturday, Whitecaps Head Coach made his priorities very clear when his lineup was announced, with the Whitecaps choosing to rest almost their entire starting eleven ahead of the crucial weekend fixture. Jay Nolly, Wes Knight, Greg Janicki and Blake Wagner all made their first appearances since Soehn replaced Teitur Thordarson and Peter Vagenas, Russell Teibert and Omar Salgado got starts in place of Terry Dunfield, Camilo and Eric Hassli. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6219484 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6219484 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 01:30:00 EDT It’s another round of Counter Attack: Canadian Edition. The rescheduled second leg of the 2011 Canadian Championship tournament is upon us and it is shaping up to be a bare knuckles battle between Canada’s two MLS clubs. With both Toronto and Vancouver having won only two league matches thus far, the Voyageurs Cup looks like it will be the only opportunity for either team to come away with a piece of silverware in 2011. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6218964 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6218964 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 16:14:00 EDT The Montreal Impact announced on Tuesday morning that Marc Dos Santos has resigned as the team’s head coach. Sporting director Nick De Santis has stepped in on a temporary basis. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6217821 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6217821 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 23:09:00 EDT It’s fitting that the Whitecaps home, Empire Field, neighbors the grounds that hosts the annual PNE and Playland festivities because it’s sure been a roller coaster ride this season, for the lads from Vancouver. After gaining momentum, with a tie in Seattle, and a huge win against the Union, the Caps followed those strong performances up with another flat outing. Facing a Sporting Kansas City squad last week that at the time occupied the last place position in the Eastern Conference the Caps squandered an early lead to drop the game 2-1. It was a lackluster performance, that was put together by their best players, two of which ran into injury troubles and had to replaced at the half. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6217774 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6217774 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 22:33:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Shea Salinas of the Vancouver Whitecaps. In this interview, Shea discusses his first season with the Whitecaps, Vancouver’s recent coaching change from Teitur Thordarson to Tom Soehn, playing with Whitecaps Designated Player Eric Hassli, Vancouver’s recent win against his former team the Philadelphia Union and the Whitecaps upcoming rescheduled Canadian Championship final second leg against Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6216326 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6216326 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 02:09:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Canada’s U-17 Men’s Team and their positive performances at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, Canada's inspirational performance against Germany in their opening match of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Canadian Superstar Christine Sinclair, the importance of Sinclair's spectacular free kick goal against Germany, Canada defensive midfielder Sophie Schmidt, the difference between coaching men and women,  Canada's next match against France, Toronto FC's 3-1 defeat to Real Salt Lake, rumours surrounding Rob Friend and Torsten Frings as possible acquisitions by TFC, the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-1 loss to Sporting Kansas City, the rumoured sale of Camilo during the summer transfer window and the two upcoming matches between Toronto FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6216231 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6216231 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:23:00 EDT Since changing its name to the CSL (Canadian Soccer League) back in 2002 this league has had its fare share of teams, but some matches just seem to have more meaning then others. In this article I highlight what the top CSL “Derby Matches” are for the 2011 season, these are games which have significance to the league, cities that there played in and to their supporters that over time will only get stronger. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214686 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214686 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:04:00 EDT After an inspiring comeback draw against Seattle two weeks ago and a very good victory against the high flying Philadelphia Union last weekend, it’s hard not to look at Vancouver’s 2-1 defeat on the road to Kansas City as a bit of a letdown. While it was far from a disastrous performance, this game represented one of those games in which the Whitecaps star players did not play at the level that Whitecaps supporters have come to expect from the http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214685 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214685 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:03:00 EDT It’s come to that point in Toronto FC’s season where a result like this does not cause a stir or any degree of outrage. For this to happen barely a week into the summer gives an indication how far the club has to go to instill legitimate competitiveness and confidence in it’s support. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214684 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214684 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:01:00 EDT Germany 2 Canada 1 The Prelude to Battle After months of anticipation, the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup kicked off today with Canada opening their tournament against the hosts and one of the favourites to win the World Cup in Germany. Against the backdrop of a fantastic stadium in the Olympiastadion in Berlin and a raucous atmosphere that recalled the successful FIFA World Cup held in Germany in 2006, Canada entered the lion’s den as the clear underdogs, but also looking to send a message that they deserve to be counted as one of the top teams in women’s soccer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214650 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214650 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 22:26:00 EDT Sporting Kansas City 2 Vancouver Whitecaps 1 Julio Cesar scored his first goal in Major League Soccer to help Sporting Kansas City to a 2-1 comeback victory at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park Saturday night. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214114 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6214114 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 13:09:00 EDT After a disappointing last minute home loss to Seattle last weekend, Toronto FC arrived at the imposing fortress that is Rio Tinto Stadium looking to continue an effective run of road form in which the Reds had earned three straight draws. A depleted due to injury TFC squad were likely going to need a defensively flawless performance against Real Salt Lake (2009 MLS Cup Champions and CONCACAF Champions League finalists) if they hoped to steal even a point against a side with more talent, cohesion and experience. With playmaker Javier Morales injured, Toronto would be facing a Salt Lake squad without their best offensive player, but also a team that still featured a back line which has conceded only four goals at home this season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6213523 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6213523 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 01:41:00 EDT This bit may come off a little critical of the Canadian U-17s and I should preface this article by saying that Canada’s lads played well in this tournament as a whole and everyone has their down days. Overall, Canada did well in the tournament and a lot of the youngsters have future games and careers to look forward. While things didn’t go our way today, we can still be proud Canada garnered two points from the tournament, a feat which was infinitely (literally infinitely – credit to Benjamin Massey for that one) better than previous performances at the tournament. It would have been nice to advance but some perspective is needed. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6213393 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6213393 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 22:48:00 EDT Canada 0 Rwanda 0 Fresh off making history by earning Canada’s first ever point at a FIFA U-17 World Cup with a draw against England, the Canadian FIFA U-17 squad entered their final group C match looking to make more history against a Rwandan side that was looking to make some history of their own in their first ever FIFA U-17 World Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6213389 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6213389 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 22:47:00 EDT Could a team that up until last week only had one victory on the season, be on the verge of a winning streak? Well before the Seattle Sounders match two weeks ago, that would have be an absolutely absurd statement. However this isn’t Teitur Thordason’s Whitecaps. Not to paint the ex coach with a negative brush, but since his firing, the Caps have showed more life on the pitch. Two perfect examples are the last two games. On the road against the Sounders on June 11th, the Caps squandered a one goal lead late in the match. However, as opposed to metaphorically jumping on the bus to travel back up the I-5, they fought back, and tied the game thanks to a masterful strike from Eric Hassli. 

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6211797 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6211797 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 23:37:00 EDT The World Cup show will begin for both Canada and the world on Sunday at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, Germany and the Canadians certainly won't have the chance to ease into the tournament against an easy mark such as Equatorial Guinea or New Zealand. In what will be a very stern test, Canada start off their 2011 World Cup against the tournament hosts, Germany, who are two-time World Cup winners and once again favourites to win the trophy. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6211673 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6211673 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 22:12:00 EDT TFC are now in the thick of it as they head on the road to the one stadium in MLS that can truly call itself a fortress. The Reds are in Sandy, Utah to face the 2009 MLS Cup champions and widely acclaimed Real Salt Lake in a match that has ‘just keep it respectable’ written all over it. While RSL are not as potent as they have been in the last few years, mostly due to the loss of midfielder Javier Morales, head coach Jason Kreis still has put together a disciplined side with quality depth, especially in the midfield. TFC on the other hand are lacking a real game-changer and it appears supporters will have to sit patiently until July 15 and hope that all the talk being generated from Aron Winter et al. leads to action. As it stands right now TFC don’t have the horses to run with the top sides in the league, Saturday’s match with Salt Lake included. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6210830 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6210830 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:02:00 EDT Many observers of the world of International women's soccer generally look at Canada as a possible darkhorse to win the 2011 World Cup and as a team that is firmly in a group of second tier contenders just behind the top four powerhouses that are Germany, Brazil, the United States and Sweden. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6210097 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6210097 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:43:00 EDT As someone who is very much in tune with the comings and goings of women’s soccer, I am often asked who I think the main players to watch will be at any of the major tournament, such as the one we entering now with the 2011 World Cup in Germany. I have to say, it is a little bit harder to predict potential impact players in the women’s game. It’s not difficult to say who the stars are because the top players in women’s soccer are even more dominant than the stars in the men’s game. In the men’s game, of course you have Messi, who is a standout star that stands above everybody else. In many ways, he is even more superior today than Pele was in his time. In general though there are so many really brilliant and exceptional male players that you don’t see a few who stand that far apart from the very many excellent players playing in the world today. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6210025 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6210025 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:52:00 EDT want to preface this article by saying I’m not in the business of placing blame but rather to shed light on issues and come up with possible solutions. With Canada’s recent and premature exit from the CONCACAF Gold Cup it has many media and supporters asking the question where do we go from here? This is not only a question about what the Canadian Men’s National Team does to prepare for World Cup Qualifying but the broader aspect of who is coming up in the national youth set up? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6209846 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6209846 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 20:47:00 EDT How do I sum this up? Amazing, fantastic, faith building...Or how about just another day at the office. Because that’s how Canada played against England. Poised, cool, calm and professional. Canada’s U-17s dealt with England’s U-17s like they played them all the time. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6209311 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6209311 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 11:59:00 EDT Coming into their second U17 World Cup fixture, head coach Sean Fleming was in good spirits despite losing the opener 3-0 to Uruguay. Added to the loss also came an injury to starting goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau, and TFC Academy product Quillan Roberts would get the nod to start the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6208533 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6208533 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:09:00 EDT When Aron Winter first took over as Toronto FC Head Coach and Technical Director over the most recent MLS offseason, the former Ajax Youth Team Head Coach came to Toronto with a reputation as a manager who was excellent at developing and coaching young talent. And with that pedigree many pundits expected that the 2011 version of Toronto FC would be peppered with talented youngsters from the TFC Academy. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6208515 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6208515 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:08:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer Association and Canada U-17 Head Coach Sean Fleming held a conference call with members of the media on Tuesday to discuss Canada's second group stage match against England at the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Fleming was candid in expressing his desire to see Canada build on the things they did will in their tournament opening to loss to Uruguay, as the squad looks forward to making history by becoming the first Canadian team to earn a point at a U-17 World Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6207026 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6207026 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:32:00 EDT With the requisite one week period of mourning after a team bows out of an international tournament now ending, RedNation Online felt it was time to take a moment to look back on Canada's performance at the 2011 edition of the CONCACAF Gold Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6207024 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6207024 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:27:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Toronto FC left back Danleigh Borman following TFC’s last minute 1-0 defeat to the Seattle Sounders. As one of the players acquired in the trade of Dwayne De Rosario, the South African born defender is one of the new players brought into the Toronto fold as Head Coach Aron Winter looks to rebuild TFC into a team capable of excelling in a fast paced 4-3-3 formation. In this interview, Borman provides his thoughts on the challenges he faced in joining a new team, how he is adapting to playing under Winter, his experiences playing with the star studded New York Red Bulls and the potential inherent in the squad that TFC has assembled. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6206126 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6206126 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 10:26:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on the Canadian Men's National Team's early exit at the 2011 Gold Cup, Canada's draw against Panama in their final Group Stage Match, Vancouver's breakthrough win over the Philadelphia Union, Davide Chiumiento as central attacking player, Toronto's midweek draw against New England, TFC weekend loss to Seattle, the difference that Alan Gordon makes to the Toronto FC offense and Aron Winter's man management choices through the first half of the 2011 Major League Soccer campaign. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6205538 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6205538 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:49:00 EDT With Canada making its first appearance at the FIFA U-17 World Cup since it finished 16th at the 1995 tournament in Ecuador, the Canadian team went into the 2011 World Cup with modest intentions as it looked to put a history of poor performances at the U-17 World Cup behind it while at the same time contending with the fact that it was placed in one of the toughest groups in the competition for the group stages. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204486 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204486 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 09:52:00 EDT With the news that on-loan midfielder Alen Stevanovic has been recalled by Serie B side Torino, Toronto FC find their already injury depleted roster down another man just as the team heads into a difficult stretch of games with a fixture away to Real Salt Lake and back to back matches, including a Canadian Championship final replay, against a suddenly surging Whitecaps FC squad. Regardless of whether or not the TFC medical staff has resorted to horse placenta therapy with the team’s lengthy list of walking wounded, the departure of the oft injured himself Stevanovic does not come without its advantages. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204062 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204062 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:42:00 EDT Over the first two months of the Canadian Soccer League season there have been quite a few great performances by players who in my estimation are rising stars in the world game. The players on this list, in my opinion, are either ready to make the immediate step up into MLS, or at the very least capable of making it on MLS rosters depending on the philosophy of the club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204061 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204061 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:41:00 EDT It was a long time coming, but Vancouver finally has their second league win of the 2011 MLS campaign. In what might have been the most complete performance the ‘Caps have delivered at the MLS level, Vancouver was excellent in every facet of the game, as they were very good defensively while at the same time moving the ball in a very fluid fashion as the team switched effortlessly to attacking at the other end of the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204060 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204060 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:40:00 EDT Disappointment once again is the easiest way to characterize Toronto FC’s most recent result as they could not generate anything substantial against a 10-man side and ultimately ended up losing the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204059 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6204059 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:40:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 Philadelphia Union 0 The relief was clear to see on the faces of Whitecaps players when referee Alex Prus blew the final whistle at Empire Field Saturday night. The 1-0 victory over the Philadelphia Union was the 'Caps first win of the Tommy Soehn era, and the first since opening day against Toronto FC on March 19. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6203318 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6203318 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 11:38:00 EDT Toronto FC 0 FC Seattle Sounders 1 The Prelude to Battle Toronto FC arrived back at home today to face the Seattle Sounders after a couple of encouraging draws on the road. With the Sounders having defeated the Reds 3-0 in Seattle already this season, TFC was likely looking for some revenge against a side that would also provide a good barometer for where Aron Winter’s side was at as the MLS season approaches its mid-way point. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6202900 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6202900 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 02:30:00 EDT This Saturdays match can be tabbed Hassli Califf: Part Two. This is due to the falloff from round one of the matchup, that saw the Philadelphia Union defeat the Whitecaps 1-0 on March 26th. In that game Eric Hassli was dismissed after receiving two yellow cards. The Caps tried to weather the storm after falling a man short, but super pest Carlos Ruiz would break the deadlock in the 77th minute tapping home the winner after being fed a pass from Sebastien Le Toux. Hassli’s post match comments helped fuel the rivalry when he said through a translator, that he couldn’t wait for the rematch against Union defender Danny Califf. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6201010 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6201010 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 11:26:00 EDT Toronto FC return to home from back to back draws on the road to take on, and hopefully enact some revenge, on the visiting Seattle Sounders. TFC come in to this tilt on the heels of two telling results away from BMO Field. In the 2-2 draw with Los Angeles, the Reds demonstrated never say die determination and followed it up with a 0-0 scoreline in New England that didn’t see the same desire to score but had long stretches of dominant possession. These positive could build up and translate into a much better effort against a Seattle side who thoroughly handled Toronto 3-0 on April 30th. With some key players returning into the fold, this match will be a good barometer on whether TFC are able to compete against the top half of MLS. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6200967 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6200967 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 10:28:00 EDT Gold Cup 2011 wrap up video interviews with Stephen Hart, Terry Dunfield, Simeon Jackson and Milan Borjan. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6200422 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6200422 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 23:41:00 EDT Toronto FC 0 – New England Revolution 0 Toronto FC notch another away point as they put forth a good display against New England Wednesday night. At no point did it look as though either side were capable of owning the match, even though Toronto enjoyed a lengthy run of play for the first half. TFC will be pleased to get a result, but might wonder if they had pushed more in the final third of the game could have come away with all three points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6200374 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6200374 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 22:22:00 EDT Against one of the poorer sides in MLS, Toronto FC weren't able to come away with their first road win of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6199416 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6199416 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 06:25:00 EDT And that’s a wrap. Canada bows out of the 2011 Gold Cup after a heartbreaking 1-1 draw against Panama when they needed the win to ensure passage to the knockout round. An extra-time goal saw multiple Canada players standing and watching their tournament hopes go off the crossbar, land at the feet of a Panamanian who sent the ball on goal to squeeze past keeper Milan Borjan. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6199041 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6199041 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 22:04:00 EDT TFC stay out on the road for a Wednesday night tilt against their Eastern Conference rival, and co-bottom dwelling, New England Revolution. Both clubs have gotten off to a lackluster start to the first half of the season with neither being able to find any sort of consistency in terms of results. While Toronto are coming off an inspiring 2-2 draw with the LA Galaxy, the Revolution nearly came away with a result against New York Friday night in a gutting 2-1 loss. The Reds might be riding a bit of a high, but finding back to back inspired performances has been an anomaly this year, and New England are desperate to get a win as they have gone four matches without one. Their road record coupled with a poor history at Gillette Stadium makes a win for Toronto very unlikely, however, should key players be fit for this match, coming away with a point is not out of the question. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6198551 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6198551 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 11:16:00 EDT CANADA 1 PANAMA 1 The knockout stage came early for Canada at the Gold Cup with their final group stage match against essentially being a win or go home encounter. After a couple of performances in which the Canadian team had stretches where they played like Canadian National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart has expected them to, the Canucks went into this without having scored a goal from open play in their two initial fixtures. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6198008 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6198008 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:28:00 EDT RedNation Online's Gavin Day speaks to Stephen Hart and Kevin McKenna ahead of Canada's showdown with Panama in the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup group stage. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6196884 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6196884 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 04:07:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Toronto FC's stunning comeback draw against the Los Angeles Galaxy, TFC striker Alan Gordon, TFC captain Maicon Santos, the Vancouver Whitecaps Cascadia Cup draw against the Sounders, why Eric Hassli should be the benchmark for MLS Designated Players, and the Canadian Men's National Team's group stage matches against the United States and Guadeloupe at the Gold Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6196843 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6196843 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 03:10:00 EDT RNO's Gavin Day speaks with Ali Gerba, Kevin McKenna and Milan Borjan after Canada v Guadeloupe. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6196163 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6196163 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 13:31:00 EDT The Whitecaps first match in the Cascadia Cup was a thriller capped by a truly exceptional world class goal by Eric Hassli. At least for one evening, Vancouver should feel justified in forgetting that the team only has one win and just back in excellent result in a difficult atmosphere versus a Pacific Northwest rival. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195559 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195559 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:37:00 EDT Many TFC supporters weren’t expecting much from the Reds against the Galaxy, as Toronto showed a lot of fight and character in coming back to earn a 2-2 draw on the road against a league-leading Los Angeles side. After an inauspicious start to the game while conceding a very early goal, the Reds endured injuries and a dagger to the heart of a goal by Juan Pablo Angel, but bounced back in the dying seconds to pull out a result. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195558 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195558 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:36:00 EDT Toronto FC’s come-from-behind draw, which really feels like a win, is the first instance of true character that the reds have displayed this season. An Alan Gordon-inspired comeback means Toronto FC go home with a well deserved point against MLS’ strongest side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195557 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195557 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:35:00 EDT It was an underwhelming performance by the Canadians in their first victory at the 2011 Gold Cup. Up a man for ninety minutes, the men in red looked like they had no idea what to do with the gift of a man advantage. Milan Borjan was Canada’s man of the match in his Gold Cup debut, as the CONCACAF veterans on Canada’s roster looked like they were wilting due to the Tampa heat. With Panama defeating the United States in the other Group C match up, Canada is going to have to come up with a much better performance against Panama on Thursday if they want to qualify for the knockout phase of the tournament. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195556 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195556 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:34:00 EDT There aren’t many players in world soccer that would attempt the shot Eric Hassli volleyed past a bemused Kasey Keller to give the Vancouver Whitecaps a 2-2 draw with the Seattle Sounders in this year’s edition of Cascadia Cup, and there are fewer still that would actually finish the play with a shot on target, let alone a goal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195384 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195384 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 19:09:00 EDT There aren’t many players in world soccer that would attempt the shot Eric Hassli volleyed past a bemused Kasey Keller to give the Vancouver Whitecaps a 2-2 draw with the Seattle Sounders in this year’s edition of Cascadia Cup, and there are fewer still that would actually finish the play with a shot on target, let alone a goal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195349 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6195349 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 18:27:00 EDT Los Angeles Galaxy 2 Toronto FC 2 Toronto FC faced an uphill battle as the Reds went into this matchup against the Los Angeles Galaxy at the Home Depot Center looking to build on a scoreless draw against Sporting Kansas City last weekend. Both teams went into this one missing key players, with Julian de Guzman, Landon Donovan and Donovan Ricketts all on International duty at the Gold Cup. With the Galaxy not having conceded a goal in the team’s last four matches, it didn’t appear that this one was going to breakout night for TFC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194704 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194704 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 02:12:00 EDT CANADA 1 GUADELOUPE 0 After losing to the United States in their opening match of the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Canadian Men’s National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart made four changes to his lineup for the team’s second group stage match against Guadeloupe, with two of those changes being brought on by training session injuries to a couple of starters. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194557 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194557 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 22:16:00 EDT The idea of entering a hostile environment with tens of thousands of people screaming at you isn’t something many of us dream of, but for professional soccer players like Whitecaps FC’s Michael Nanchoff, it’s a dream come true. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194438 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194438 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 19:10:00 EDT Canada-Guadeloupe video preview: Hart, De Rosario, Gerba and Hainault http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194201 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194201 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 13:43:00 EDT Alan Gordon was acquired from Chivas USA for midfielder Nick Labrocca at the start of the MLS season. Whether it is fair or unfair, Gordon will be compared to former TFC defender Marvell Wynne, the player Toronto traded in the deal to bring Labrocca to the Ontario side. When he joined the team he was billed as a gritty, hardworking targetman and supporters were lukewarm on his upside. They hoped he could provide a few goals along with a good workrate but didn’t expect much in the way of becoming a regular starter. While he may not be a prolific scorer or top tier striker, it is safe to say Alan Gordon has had a positive impact on his new club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194172 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6194172 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 13:09:00 EDT Toronto FC continue through one of their most difficult periods in the club’s existence and it won’t get any easier as they are on the road up against the top MLS side, the Los Angeles Galaxy. The Reds are in the midst of a poor run of form with a 6-2 home loss to Philadelphia on May 28 and a completely uninspired 0-0 draw with bottom dwelling Sporting Kansas City. They will facing a more motivated side as Bruce Arena was not pleased with his team’s 0-0 draw in DC last weekend and for them to return home, it is near certain they will be able improve on that result. Toronto FC? They are missing a handful of key starters, and even though the one consistent and dedicated attacker in Alan Gordon has returned, as well as Jacob Peterson, TFC appear to not have the depth to compete against the top sides, especially away from BMO Field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193136 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193136 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 11:46:00 EDT This is the first game for the Caps in the 2011 version of the Cascadia Cup. This annual competition pits Vancouver against geographic rivals, the Seattle Sounders and the Portland Timbers. The winner of the trophy is the team with the best head to head record at the end of the season. The Caps have been the strongest of the three sides throughout the years, winning Cascadia in 2004, 2005 and in 2008. Last year with Seattle playing the MLS, the Timbers and Whitecaps clashed in a head to head for the Cup. Portland was the stronger of the two teams, winning the coveted hardware to make it back to back titles for them. This years competition is already under way, as Portland and Seattle squared off on May 14th drawing 1-1. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193134 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193134 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 11:46:00 EDT When Stephen Hart was first named as the full Head Coach for the Canadian Men’s National Team one of his initial stated goals was to build more depth on the team and to create a competitive environment in terms of having players competing for playing time at every position on the pitch. With the continued of evolution of Marcel de Jong into a top flight player in addition to established veteran Mike Klukowski, left back looks to be a solid position of strength for Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193061 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193061 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:56:00 EDT It’s been a tumultuous couple of weeks for the Vancouver Whitecaps, with a new coach, a goalkeeping switch, and yet another Eric Hassli suspension, but for two young players, Bilal Duckett and Alexandre Morfaw, the change in coach has meant opportunities to play in Major League Soccer for the first time. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193060 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6193060 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:55:00 EDT As one of the players who has made a return to the Canadian Men’s National Team after some time away, striker Ali Gerba was also one of the few Canadians who really stood out in the team’s 2-0 loss to the United States, as he came on late in the game as a substitute and easily could have had two goals if not for a couple of brilliant saves by U.S.A. keeper Tim Howard. With his club career finally looking settled with him as a key player with his hometown club, the Montreal Impact, Gerba has returned to the national team in a positive frame of mind and he is genuinely appreciative of the opportunity to represent Canada again. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6191850 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6191850 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:28:00 EDT The Good The Canadian National Team took on their archrivals – namely the United States – and besides the score, Canada did have moments of impressive play. Firstly, credit must go to a couple players; Josh Simpson had moments of inspired play, his blazing runs getting past Cherundulo on a couple of occasions. The Canadian winger played smart on the left, cutting in at times to supplement the forward and allowing Dwayne De Rosario the chance to roam from mid-to-left. Speaking of, De Rosario once again had a very trademark game, the kind of game the Voyageurs – who, it’s worth noting, were out in full force and with full voice – have grown accustomed to, or at least, the Toronto FC faction within. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6191849 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6191849 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:26:00 EDT It was less than hoped, but realistically better than what it could have been as Canada were silenced against the United States in their 2011 Gold Cup opener. Les Rouges can attribute much of this loss to a very lackluster opening twenty minutes and they appeared to have no clue how to get out of first gear as the Americans piled on the pressure right from the get go. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6191114 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6191114 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:24:00 EDT RedNation Online's Gavin Day caught up with Josh Simpson, Will Johnson and Terry Dunfield after their 2-0 loss to the United States to discuss the match. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6190688 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6190688 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 10:26:00 EDT Canada’s opening fixture at the 2011 Gold Cup was billed as an opportunity for the Canadian team to exact revenge for loss to the United States in the 2007 Gold Cup that was facilitated by a poor call by the referee. Instead of coming out of the gates with fire in their eyes and revenge on their minds, Canada started out this match very tentatively and never recovered from a poor first half that likely left Canada Head Coach Stephen Hart exasperated. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6190161 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6190161 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 23:40:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Canadian midfielder Will Johnson during Canada's training sessions in advance of the 2011 Gold Cup and the Real Salt Lake stalwart offered his thoughts on a wide range of topics including the advantages of playing in the CONCACAF Champions League for Canadian Internationals, the importance of outworking the opposition, his physical state after a very busy recent schedule and whether or not the Gold Cup will provide a good barometer for the Canadian National Team as it prepares to commence the next round of World Cup Qualifying. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6189100 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6189100 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 05:12:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on the firing of Teitur Thordarson by the Vancouver Whitecaps, Vancouver's first matches played under new Head Coach Tom Soehn, Toronto FC's scoreless draw against Sporting Kansas City, the season-ending injury to TFC defender Adrian Cann, the Canadian Men's National Team's 2-2 draw against Ecuador and CMNT winger Josh Simpson. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188911 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188911 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 01:22:00 EDT The 2010-2011 Bundesliga campaign was one that FC Köln defender Kevin McKenna likely wants to put behind him. With a serious knee injury and a back ailment causing the veteran Canadian International to miss most of his club season, the 31 year old is keen to look forward and he is excited to suit up for Canada as it heads into the 2011 Gold Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188837 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188837 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:09:00 EDT When Canadian National Team keeper Milan Borjan was first approached to represent Canada at the International level, the talented young keeper did not know a whole lot about the Canadian Men’s National Team. As he has become integrated into the CMNT setup over the last several months, he has not only learned about the history of the team and developed relationships with the other players and the coaching staff, he has also heard the stories about other players who, like him, had multiple options at theInternational level - and who chose to represent countries other than Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188833 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188833 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EDT For a nation like Canada, the Gold Cup is a tournament that can provide a huge boost to their ultimate goal – World Cup qualifying. The Gold Cup is the only other source of competitive fixtures for Stephen Hart’s side and he has prepared his team with friendlies versus Greece, Belarus, and Ecuador. One can look at these matches to try and predict how his team will play for the upcoming tournament. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188771 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6188771 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 22:45:00 EDT After a week of training and a warm up match against Ecuador in Toronto, the main event for the Canadian Men’s National Team kicks off on Tuesday in Detroit when the team faces the United States in their 2011 Gold Cup opener. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187738 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187738 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:29:00 EDT With the Canadian Men’s National Team playing in another Gold Cup tournament, Canadian soccer fans will get a glimpse of the progress that the Canadian National Team has made under Head Coach Stephen Hart over the last couple of years. With Hart being clear that the World Cup is his only priority, this CONCAFAF tournament is really more of a tuneup and final player audition for Canada’s upcoming World Cup qualifying matches than a final end game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187737 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187737 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:28:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the chance to catch up with Dunfield during Canada's final preparations for the Gold Cup and the Vancouver native offered his candid thoughts on a wide range of topics including the joy of scoring international goals, representing one's country via the national team, playing a physical style against CONCACAF opponents and the state of the Canadian team heading into their opening Gold Cup fixture against the United States. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187736 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187736 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:27:00 EDT The 2011 Gold Cup is now underway as CONCACAF’s premier tournament is in the cycle where supporters of the game will see the best players from each nation taking the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187735 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187735 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:26:00 EDT Gavin Day interviews Simeon Jackson, Josh Simpson and Will Johnson at the Canadian Men's National Team training camp ahead of their first 2011 Gold Cup match.... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187734 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187734 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:24:00 EDT Goals by Jean Alexandre and Fabian Espindola punctuated an excellent display of possession football from Real Salt Lake at Rio Tinto Stadium on Saturday night as the CONCACAF Champion's League finalists defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps comfortably. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187127 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6187127 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 10:54:00 EDT As has become a relatively common occurrence for Toronto FC thus far this season, Saturday’s match-up demanded some form of bounce back performance by the lads in red. After one of the worst performances in the history of the franchise in the 6-2 pasting the Reds suffered at the hands of the Philadelphia Union last weekend, nothing less than a victory was likely going to be enough to appease both TFC supporters and Toronto Head Coach Aron Winter. And with a depleted roster at the Dutchman’s disposal all three points was not going to be an easy task. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6186765 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6186765 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:46:00 EDT Montreal Impact 2 FC Edmonton 0 Despite a 5-0 drubbing from the Montreal Impact on May 1, FC Edmonton was second in the NASL with a 5-2-1 record going into their revenge game at Saputo Stadium on Saturday, June 4. The team had not lost since playing Montreal in Edmonton at the beginning of May. The Impact were 1-4-2 going into the game and had yet to win on home turf. In spite of these numbers, the Impact came out on top with a decisive 2-0 victory. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6186707 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6186707 Sat, 04 Jun 2011 23:00:00 EDT RedNation Online's Martin MacMahon sits down with Davide Chiumiento, discussing his professional soccer career in Europe, his international career, and his goals with Whitecaps FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6185382 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6185382 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 17:45:00 EDT "It’s the same old story, same old song and dance my friends.” Words sung by Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, that could apply to Tom Soehn’s first match in charge, Wednesday night against Chivas USA. The Caps once again failed to finish on quality chances, rattling shots off crossbars or missing the net completely. They once again battled back, after conceding a goal early in the second half. The Caps got a great game out of Eric Hassli.... until he was sent off for making a bonehead lunge at Chivas USA’s Ben Zemanski. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6185244 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6185244 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 15:29:00 EDT Usually for a match like this, an expression surrounding the comforts and advantage to being in a home stadium would be employed. However, after last weekend’s 6-2 destruction at the hands of one of the worst road teams in MLS, the term ‘home sweet home’ just doesn’t seem right. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6185226 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6185226 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:53:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 – Chivas USA 1 The first Vancouver Whitecaps match of the Tom Soehn era ended up looking a whole like those of the Teitur Thordarson era. A draw? Check. Good character displayed by the Whitecaps in a comeback performance? Check. Some big saves by a veteran Whitecaps keeper? Check. And a red card to the team’s impressive Designated Player? Check. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6184107 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6184107 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 17:17:00 EDT It was supposed to be a fresh start for the Whitecaps, but a 1-1 draw with Chivas USA and the third Eric Hassli sending off of the year made new head coach Tommy Soehn's first day at the helm feel more like deja vu than the dawn of a new era. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6183786 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6183786 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 11:34:00 EDT Canada-Ecuador post game video interviews http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6183002 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6183002 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 02:47:00 EDT Canada 2 Ecuador 2 The Canadian Men’s National Team arrived back at BMO Field today for their first home match of 2011 and their final tune-up before the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament. In a match up between 76th ranked Canada and 64th ranked Ecuador, Canada Head Coach Stephen Hart give Milan Borjan the start in net, with Julian de Guzman starting this one on the bench and Dwayne De Rosario making his first appearance at BMO Field since he was traded by Toronto FC to the New York Red Bulls. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6182877 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6182877 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 01:36:00 EDT The first Whitecaps FC practice under new coach Tommy Soehn was nothing out of the ordinary, until its conclusion. Given that the team plays Chivas USA tomorrow, the practice was light and didn't feature any major physical training. But right at the end, there was a thing everybody watching on the sidelines couldn't help but focus on. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6180537 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6180537 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 09:57:00 EDT Tony Tchani was the center piece of the trade that sent Toronto FC captain Dwayne De Rosario to the New York Red Bulls, and as such it would be reasonable to expect a big impact from the Cameroonian midfielder. So far his performances have been solid if unspectacular with many fans acknowledging the raw talent he possesses that made him the second overall pick of the 2010 MLS SuperDraft, and although he has established himself as a first team regular most would agree that Tchani still has more to offer. The question becomes, what is he truly capable of and how can he reach that potential? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6180419 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6180419 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 09:23:00 EDT Over the last year of Canada's preparation for the Gold Cup and ensuing World Cup Qualifying, there has been a steady increase in the level of competition. With a mix of South American and European friendlies, Canada has put themselves in tough situations against strong opponents employing some of the best attacking players in the world. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6179523 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6179523 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 02:52:00 EDT RedNation Online was on-hand to speak with familiar members of Canada's current training camp. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6178630 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6178630 Tue, 31 May 2011 20:09:00 EDT As a former Tottenham Hotspur director, Whitecaps chief executive officer Paul Barber knows all about football clubs making decisions based on a hunger for immediate results. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6178119 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6178119 Tue, 31 May 2011 17:25:00 EDT Well I would be remiss not to mention that this is the first game in the Post-Teitur era. Judging by the comments of media and fans around this town, this could also be referred to as the Post Teitur “error”. Thordason’s dismissal Monday morning saw the coaching reigns passed to Tommy Soehn, the team’s director of soccer operations. Soehn’s previous coaching experience was in the US Capital, coaching DC United to a Supporters Shield and a US Open Cup Championship. He finished his 3 year tenure with a record of 36W-31L-25D. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6177782 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6177782 Tue, 31 May 2011 14:40:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on the aborted second leg of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship between Toronto FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps, TFC's disastrous defeat at home to the Philadelphia Union, Vancouver's weekend draw against the New York Red Bulls, Whitecaps strikers Camilo and Eric Hassli, Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter and the midfield options that Canadian Men's National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart has at his disposal for the Gold Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6175763 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6175763 Tue, 31 May 2011 01:18:00 EDT Stephen Hart and the Canadian Soccer Association held a press conference in Toronto today in advance of Canada’s International friendly match against Ecuador at BMO Field on Wednesday, June 1st. During a lengthy session in which both Hart and Ecuador Head Coach Reinaldo Rueda set the stage for the Canada-Ecuador match, the Canadian National Team Head Coach reinforced his often stated message that, while the Ecuador match and the Gold Cup tournament which that will follow it are vitally important initiatives, Canada’s preparation for the team’s upcoming World Cup Qualifier is his primary objective. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6175743 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6175743 Tue, 31 May 2011 00:17:00 EDT You can’t teach speed. That truism applies to all sports and soccer certainly isn’t exempt in that regard. Edmonton-born striker Tosaint Ricketts might be the fastest player on the Canadian Men’s National Team and he is a player with the potential to bring another dimension to the Canadian attack. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6175742 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6175742 Tue, 31 May 2011 00:15:00 EDT Only 12 games into their inaugural season in Major League Soccer, the Vancouver Whitecaps have fired head coach Teitur Thordarson, replacing him with Tommy Soehn, the team's director of soccer operations. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6174759 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6174759 Mon, 30 May 2011 17:23:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Atiba discuss his recently completed first season with PSV in the Dutch Eredevisie, his years as one of the top players in Danish Superliga, his thoughts on winning the 2010 Canadian Player of the Year Award, the Canadian Men’s National Team, Canada Head Coach Stephen Hart, the 2011 Gold Cup and the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers for Brazil 2014. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6172305 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6172305 Mon, 30 May 2011 00:45:00 EDT After seven games in the NASL so far this season, the Montreal Impact have yet to find a successful rhythm with their only win of the season coming at the expense of expansion team FC Edmonton. Their two-game road trip didn’t prove motivational as the team came away with a 3-0 loss to FC Tampa Bay and a scoreless draw against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6171564 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6171564 Sun, 29 May 2011 19:09:00 EDT While the Whitecaps completed another home fixture without earning a win, it’s hard to look at Saturday’s draw against the New York Red Bulls as anything other than a positive result. Playing on very little rest after the team’s Poseidon Adventure midweek in the aborted Canadian Championship Final second leg on Wednesday, the Whitecaps certainly did much better than TFC in their return to the league schedule. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6171563 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6171563 Sun, 29 May 2011 19:09:00 EDT There are no two ways to cut it, Toronto FC supporters were witness to quite possibly the most abject performance at BMO Field ever. Just when a case could have been made that progress was being made, it has all be leveled and returned to ground zero. Any fortunate results that masked the ability of the roster was exposed on this afternoon as there might be depth, but quality depth is sorely lacking. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6171560 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6171560 Sun, 29 May 2011 19:08:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 New York Red Bulls 1 A converted penalty by Eric Hassli was not enough for the Vancouver Whitecaps as they continued their winless streak in Major League Soccer with a 1-1 draw with the New York Red Bulls in front of 21,000 at Empire Field. The result means the Whitecaps have now played 11 matches since their only league victory on opening day. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6169410 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6169410 Sun, 29 May 2011 03:40:00 EDT The Soccer Gods (or at least the MLS Schedule maker) were not kind to TFC in scheduling this fixture. With only two days rest to recover and dry out from a truly bizarre and exhausting Canadian Championship non-match at BMO Field against the Whitecaps on Wednesday, TFC had to contend with an early 12:30pm start against the high flying Philadelphia Union. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6168398 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6168398 Sat, 28 May 2011 20:40:00 EDT The New York Red Bulls are leading the Eastern Conference, but the team the Vancouver Whitecaps will face on Saturday will be without some of its key components. In addition, the Red Bulls are experiencing a drop from their usual standards, having failed to win in their last four matches, picking up three draws and a loss. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6166409 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6166409 Sat, 28 May 2011 06:12:00 EDT On only two days rest, recovering and drying out from the ‘non-match’ with Vancouver, TFC have to get up for another fight as they host the Philadelphia Union Saturday afternoon. An early start to avoid competing with the Champion’s League gives the Reds a quick turnaround and little time to recover, but with a week’s break until their next game can afford to empty the tank in this one. Philadelphia have surprised many out of the gate, finding themselves in second place with games in hand. However, they have not dominated in their wins and have been poor on the road thus far - despite the hype surrounding their good start to the season, Toronto are in a good position to find a result and build momentum heading into June. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6164012 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6164012 Fri, 27 May 2011 15:08:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Danny Califf of the Philadelphia Union. In this interview, Danny discusses Philadelphia’s strong start to the 2011 MLS Campaign, his years playing professionally in Denmark, Union Head Coach Peter Nowak, Philadelphia keeper Faryd Mondragon, the physical nature of the central defender position and the Union’s upcoming match against Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6161942 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6161942 Fri, 27 May 2011 01:39:00 EDT The Reds are bailed out by weather and will live to defend their Championship for another 12 hours! Who knows when this game will be settled? Will it be May 26th at 11am? Will they pitch be playable by then? Either way Toronto will get fight another day. The lads are soaked and the weather and language is foul for this quick pod. Spark has no control over Tim and Stephe. Lots to rant about on East Siiiide! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6158229 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6158229 Thu, 26 May 2011 01:22:00 EDT One of the most impressive performers in Toronto FC's scoreless draw in Colorado on Sunday was first year TFC player Mikael Yourassowsky. The most common initial label for any soccer player is their position on the pitch, but ascribing a primary position to Yourassowsky is a bit of a challenge. The Ixelles, Belgium native has already played pretty much every position outside of keeper during his short time with Toronto and he has shown himself to be a capable performer in every place on the pitch that Aron Winter has placed him. Ask the versatile Yourassowsky himself if he has a favourite position and he is quick to state that he is happiest playing out wide. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6156134 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6156134 Wed, 25 May 2011 12:41:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on the first leg of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship between Toronto FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps, TFC's draw on the road against the Colorado Rapids, Toronto recent release of three TFC Academy Players, Vancouver Head Coach Teitur Thordarson and the announced Gold Cup roster for the Canadian Men's National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6154012 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6154012 Wed, 25 May 2011 00:09:00 EDT With Toronto FC on the cusp of a third straight Canadian Championship and the team showing improved form within Aron Winter's system over the last several weeks, it's easy to get excited about the club's future prospects while forgetting that the team is also focused on building a football side and team identity that will be enduring and successful for years to come. In that sense, while it is easy to be positive about the improved form of Designated Player Julian de Guzman, an equally encouraging development for TFC has been the inspired play of 23-year old forward Nick Soolsma. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6153840 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6153840 Tue, 24 May 2011 23:08:00 EDT It all comes down to this. Following a 1-1 draw in Vancouver, the Whitecaps and TFC will continue their rivalry at BMO Field in Toronto. On May 17th, the Caps were able to draw first blood thanks to Eric Hassli’s sublime left foot strike in the 64th minute, but the Reds replied shortly after when their own world class striker, Maicon Santos, cheekily flicked a cross from fellow forward Nick Soolsma to draw them level. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6152868 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6152868 Tue, 24 May 2011 16:50:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Nick discuss his induction into the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame, his playing career for both club and country, how the environment has changed for Canadian soccer players since his playing days, his time as both an Assistant Coach and Head Coach with Toronto FC and his thoughts on the current state of soccer in Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6149825 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6149825 Mon, 23 May 2011 20:52:00 EDT The Reds did well Sunday night to get a similar result to their midweek draw with Vancouver, but in a much different manner. Unlike their Nutrilite tilt where they were overmatched for most of the game and lucky to get away with a 1-1 draw, Toronto put in a strong defensive effort and had every chance to come away with the win. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6149152 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6149152 Mon, 23 May 2011 16:35:00 EDT At the Whitecaps last practice in Vancouver before the team heads to Toronto for the second leg of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship final, head coach Teitur Thordarson told reporters he knew exactly what to expect against TFC in the second leg. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6148472 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6148472 Mon, 23 May 2011 12:41:00 EDT Toronto FC 0 - Colorado Rapids 0 A make-shift and ever changing starting eleven did head coach Aron Winter proud as the Reds earned a point in Colorado with a 0-0 draw against the Rapids. TFC were game and competitive for the entire match, and while chances were few and far between, the result and overall performance shows signs of improvement away from BMO Field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6146291 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6146291 Sun, 22 May 2011 23:39:00 EDT A bruised and battered Toronto FC fly into Colorado to take on the reigning MLS Cup Champions, Colorado Rapids. The Reds will be in for it as they are a severely depleted side, and Colorado are beginning to find their stride through the first third of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6140833 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6140833 Sat, 21 May 2011 12:08:00 EDT In this interview, Josh discusses signing with the Colorado Rapids and the early days of his MLS career, his time with the TFC Academy, playing in the MLS Reserve League, his professional debut against the Chicago Fire in the US Open Cup and his goals for the future. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6135157 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6135157 Fri, 20 May 2011 01:26:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 - Toronto FC 1 Once again Teitur Thordarson and the Whitecaps have a genuine cause to feel hard done by in the Nutrilite Canadian Championship Tournament. Vancouver delivered a dominant performance and was clearly the better team on the night, yet Toronto came away with the series advantage as they now head back to Hogtown with an away goal to their credit. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6133835 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6133835 Thu, 19 May 2011 16:47:00 EDT Toronto FC 1 - Vancouver Whitecaps 1 It was not pretty for most of the 90 minutes, but Toronto FC found a way to get a crucial away goal and put themselves in a strong position to win their third consecutive Voyageurs Cup. There is no doubt the missed calls by the referee will be the talking point for many, and one of the two debatable penalties probably should have been awarded, but Vancouver missed countless chances from open play and at the end of the night, TFC had lady luck on their side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6133834 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6133834 Thu, 19 May 2011 16:47:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 Toronto FC 1 Eric Hassli bumped his slump and the Vancouver Whitecaps had their second-best performance of the season, but a Maicon Santos equalizer means Toronto FC has the advantage going into the second leg of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6132045 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6132045 Thu, 19 May 2011 06:11:00 EDT While much of the conversation around today's first-leg match of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship has focused on the disappointing performances of the finalists during Major League Soccer play this season, Whitecaps FC captain Jay DeMerit claimed his side are showing signs of progression despite their poor results. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6129047 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6129047 Wed, 18 May 2011 11:54:00 EDT Wednesday night, TFC makes it’s much awaited return to Empire Field for the first leg of the final for the Nutrilite Canadian Championship. No offense to both Edmonton and Montreal, but it is fitting that these are the two sides that are going to be vying for the championship. Not only is this a strong rivalry between East and West, but TFC will no doubt be looking for a measure of revenge after their poor showing in Vancouver in their opening game of the MLS season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6128965 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6128965 Wed, 18 May 2011 10:29:00 EDT It’s another round of Counter Attack: Canadian Edition. The final for the 2011 Canadian Championship tournament is upon us and it will be a battle between Canada’s two MLS clubs. With Toronto having won two league matches thus far and the Whitecaps still sitting on just a solitary victory, the final isn’t exactly shaping up to be a clash of the titans like say Barcelona vs Manchester United. But parity is the name of the game in North American soccer and, with neither team standing head and shoulders above the other, supporters from both sides have genuine hope that their team will emerge victorious.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6128633 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6128633 Wed, 18 May 2011 07:06:00 EDT With both Toronto FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps having endured up and down seasons in the MLS thus far, not many prognosticators have made assured predictions as to which of the two Canadian MLS clubs will be crowned as the victor in the 2011 edition of the Voyageurs Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6126367 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6126367 Tue, 17 May 2011 11:50:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Toronto's recent loss to FC Dallas and their weekend draw with the Chicago Fire, the Vancouver Whitecaps comeback draw against San Jose and their loss to New England on Saturday, the return of Jay DeMerit to the Whitecaps lineup, the two positions that TFC are in most need of a talent upgrade at, the scoring woes of Eric Hassli and Camilo and Aron Winter's response to a piece in the media that suggested that Nana Attakora had been benched due to his refusal to sign a new contract with TFC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6125241 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6125241 Mon, 16 May 2011 23:51:00 EDT For Canadians playing the September to May season, it’s pretty much a wrap with only a small group still having games left in the schedule. Only a few internationals have suffered setbacks in their club situation, most notably in England with Iain Hume and Gavin McCallum’s clubs being relegated. Daniel Imhof, who has not suited up in all red for some time, is also a part of that list as his Swiss club St. Gallen are on the ropes and will know their fate over the next week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6124937 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6124937 Mon, 16 May 2011 21:40:00 EDT Aron Winter continued to use a 4-3-3 formation with Dan Gargan slotting in at left back due to both Danleigh Borman and Mikael Yourassowsky being unavailable. The visiting Chicago Fire used a similar shape. Diego Chaves started alone up front with Daniel Paladini buffering the back four. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6124928 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6124928 Mon, 16 May 2011 21:33:00 EDT New England 1 – Vancouver Whitecaps 0 Another glass half empty, glass half full performance by the Whitecaps, who realistically must be extremely worn down from a very difficult schedule. The draw with New England was their 7th match in 21 days, as the team has regularly between travelling back and forth between the East and West coasts. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6120886 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6120886 Sun, 15 May 2011 19:18:00 EDT Toronto FC 2 - Chicago Fire 2 An impressive first half and opening to the second forty-five went to waste as Toronto FC were unable to adjust down the final third of the game. A two-goal lead and three points would have almost completely disappeared in a 2-2 draw with Chicago were it not for last minute heroics once again from Stefan Frei http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6120885 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6120885 Sun, 15 May 2011 19:17:00 EDT Toronto FC did manage to score twice and for the first hour looked the stronger side. Though it feels like points lost, Toronto FC did manage to gain a point, which is a better result than the loss which was predicted across the board to Chicago. 

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6120884 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6120884 Sun, 15 May 2011 19:16:00 EDT fter being on the road to take on Vancouver in the Nutrilite Canadian Championship and then beating Thierry Henry and the New York Red Bull 1-0, the Montreal Impact were back to regular NASL competition against the Carolina RailHawks with home field advantage. The team didn’t seem to show up to play, however and fell 2-1 to the surging RailHawks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6119951 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6119951 Sun, 15 May 2011 13:18:00 EDT Shalrie Joseph scored a penalty in the 49th minute which proved to be the only goal in a tight 1-0 victory for the New England Revolution over the Vancouver Whitecaps. The penalty was a result of a foul by Caps fullback Wes Knight on Revs midfielder Benny Feilhaber. The U.S. international showed his Brazilian roots with a clever touch in the penalty area before falling to the ground after a clumsy tackle from Knight. While the fall was theatrical, it was the correct call by referee Chris Penso as Knight made contact with Feilhaber’s foot on the play. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6118883 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6118883 Sun, 15 May 2011 05:58:00 EDT Toronto FC returned home to the friendly confines of BMO Field to take on another very beatable side in the form of the 1-3-4 Chicago Fire. With the Reds coming off a decent performance in a defeat to FC Dallas that was marred by a questionable penalty call against Toronto, anything less than a win from the home side was going to be considered a disappointment. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6118157 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6118157 Sun, 15 May 2011 00:52:00 EDT This is the 2nd meeting of these two squads in the 2011 season. The first contest, on April 6th ,will be remembered for the “Eric Hassli jersey incident” when the French striker tore off his jersey to throw into the crowd after scoring a penalty. He was immediately given his second caution, and subsequently told to hit the showers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6112518 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6112518 Fri, 13 May 2011 13:13:00 EDT Toronto FC return home to the friendly confines of BMO Field to take on a side they have traditionally done well against at home, the Chicago Fire. A shell of their former selves, Chicago are struggling much like TFC in the early going of this season and find themselves just below the Reds with two games in hand. Toronto has shown improved form over the last two weeks, with the Seattle away game being a major bump in their progression. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6112516 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6112516 Fri, 13 May 2011 13:12:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer Association and Simeon Jackson held a conference call with members of the media on Thursday to discuss Canada's upcoming home friendly against Ecuador and the upcoming Gold Cup tournament in the United States this summer, as well as the success that Jackson has enjoyed in England while playing a major role in helping Norwich to earn promotion to the English Premier League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6112011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6112011 Fri, 13 May 2011 09:59:00 EDT TFC went down to Pizza Hut Park and in front of a sparse crowd put forth a much improved road performance, but still could not lay claim of getting over the hurdle of being a legitimate threat away from home. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6111878 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6111878 Fri, 13 May 2011 09:34:00 EDT It was meant as a cross, but it turned out to be Davide Chiumiento’s first Whitecaps FC goal, and yet another injury time marker at Empire Field. With just two minutes of stoppage time on the clock, the diminutive Swiss-Italian scored an unintended goal to give his team a 1-1 draw against the only side below it in the Western Conference. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6111877 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6111877 Fri, 13 May 2011 09:34:00 EDT TFC went into Pizza Hut Park looking to maintain the momentum and overall good run of from seen over the last week. A win over FC Edmonton and a solid outing Saturday night against Houston, that saw perhaps the most comprehensive effort over 90 minutes this season, was the motivation heading into Dallas looking for their third win in a row. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6107958 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6107958 Thu, 12 May 2011 09:43:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on the conclusion of the opening round in the 2011 Canadian Championship Tournament, Toronto FC's bounceback win over the Houston Dynamo, the Vancouver Whitecaps weekend draw with the Chicago Fire, the recent controversy regarding Dwayne De Rosario's availability for the 2011 Gold Cup, De Rosario's recent comments on Blackburn Rovers striker Junior Hoilett and the success that Simeon Jackson has enjoyed while helping Norwich City earn promotion to the English Premier League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6103366 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6103366 Wed, 11 May 2011 06:13:00 EDT The Caps are coming off of a 0-0 draw in Chicago on Saturday and the team should be kicking themselves as they were the more dominant club on the day. They still lack the finish that they possessed on the opening match of the season versus TFC. Striker Eric Hassli, looked timid against the Fire because his physical brand of football that he used to play with, has been neutralized. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6101573 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6101573 Tue, 10 May 2011 18:39:00 EDT It’s all coming down to consistency for Toronto FC at this stage of their transition at the hands of Aron Winter and once again they have been served up a proper litmus test in an away tilt against the 2010 MLS Cup finalists, FC Dallas. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6101560 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6101560 Tue, 10 May 2011 18:38:00 EDT With Toronto FC having chalked up their second win of the 2011 season against Houston on Saturday, all is well with TFC for at least a few days. For the eternal Reds optimist, Joao Plata is now Toronto's version of Lionel Messi and a playoff berth looks like a good bet. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6098510 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6098510 Tue, 10 May 2011 00:54:00 EDT With most continental leagues down to their final games, celebrations have begun for those promoted and planning has started for those who missed out and worst case, have been relegated. There are a few Canadians abroad whose outlook on 2011/12 will go down the final match of the season as in Germany and Holland, there are players who have important games in the final fixture of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6097595 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6097595 Mon, 09 May 2011 19:11:00 EDT With the Major League Soccer Players Union releasing salary numbers for all players in the league this weekend, I thought it would be interesting to compare the money earned by Whitecaps FC players with their on-field contributions at this early point in the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6097192 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6097192 Mon, 09 May 2011 17:04:00 EDT In the winter of 2000, I had signed my contract with the Canadian Soccer Association and for the purpose of identifying players, a number of exhibition games were staged across the country. The second of these matches took place at a (rainy) venue in Vancouver, with the scrimmage teams consisting of players invited by some local BC coaches - coaches I did not know. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6097191 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6097191 Mon, 09 May 2011 17:04:00 EDT The Whitecaps earned their first MLS point on the road with Saturday’s 0-0 draw with the Chicago Fire. Winning on the road in the MLS is something that even the best teams struggle with, so, taking that into account, this was a positive result. That said, Chicago has been one of the minnows in the league thus far and, with a better offensive performance, three points were there for the taking by the Whitecaps. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6094331 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6094331 Sun, 08 May 2011 22:54:00 EDT Toronto FC delivered the win when it was needed most and gave supporters a glimmer of hope that things are in fact on the upswing in a solid outing against Houston. Consistency will be the next order of business but if one thing can be taken from this match it’s that several players stepped up and showed Aron Winter that key positions are not necessarily locked down. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6094330 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6094330 Sun, 08 May 2011 22:53:00 EDT A great result against a strong conference rival gives Toronto FC a much needed three points, and puts them back into the mix for a mid-table position moving forward. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6094329 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6094329 Sun, 08 May 2011 22:53:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps earned their first away point in Major League Soccer against the Chicago Fire at Toyota Park, but the reality is the team will be looking at the game as an opportunity missed. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6091208 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6091208 Sun, 08 May 2011 02:47:00 EDT Toronto FC went into their weekend fixture against the Houston Dynamo in dire need of a second league victory and their second bounce back performance in a couple of weeks after a dreadful team performance on the road against the Seattle Sounders last Saturday. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6091061 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6091061 Sun, 08 May 2011 01:52:00 EDT Thursday evening, Canadian Soccer News writer Pierce Lang wrote a piece entitled, “Hate in the Stands: Where do we Draw the Line?” In the article, Lang tackled the issue of so-called homophobic chanting during the match, specifically a chant I could hear all the way up in the press box, which went, “We’re pink, we’re black, we take it from the back!....Montreal!” With the article and the chant getting some interesting feedback on twitter, I decided to give Southsiders President John Knox a call to get his take on the article, and on the chant itself. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6089825 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6089825 Sat, 07 May 2011 18:09:00 EDT Moments of competitiveness have been few and far between early on in this MLS season as the Reds continue to experience growing pains in Aron Winter’s system. Houston on the other hand have been an established contender under Dominic Kinnear since they moved from San Jose in 2006. With word out that Alan Gordon is not likely to play on Saturday night, the chances of TFC scoring have been greatly reduced. A Houston side that have traditionally been able to come away with points at BMO Field will give Toronto everything they can handle in this encounter. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6085751 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6085751 Fri, 06 May 2011 17:27:00 EDT Not to bring up scheduling right off the hop, but let’s face it one team will be extremely well rested, and another is coming off of grueling extra time midweek match. The Whitecaps are the worn out squad, who will be going through a rough stretch of the season that will see them play 4 games in 10 days. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6084986 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6084986 Fri, 06 May 2011 12:36:00 EDT RedNation and Andrew discuss his development over the last three years playing in the MLS, Houston’s strong start to the 2011 campaign, Houston Head Coach Dominic Kinnear, former Dynamo and Canadian National Team keeper Pat Onstad, the importance of home support at Canadian National Team matches in Canada, the Canadian National Team’s recent strong performances, the state of Canada’s back line and the next round of World Cup qualifying. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6083223 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6083223 Fri, 06 May 2011 01:52:00 EDT Empire Field saw a frenetic finish on Wednesday evening as the Vancouver Whitecaps squeaked through by the skin of their teeth against the Montreal Impact in the second leg of their Nutrilite Canadian Championship series. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6081369 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6081369 Thu, 05 May 2011 15:56:00 EDT Toronto FC arrived back at BMO Field for the second leg of their Canadian Championship opening round against FC Edmonton with a very simple assignment: don’t lose by four unanswered goals in front of their home crowd. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6078730 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6078730 Thu, 05 May 2011 01:09:00 EDT With Eric Hassli sitting out his third Major League Soccer match due to suspension this season against the Columbus Crew this weekend, I decided to call up a journalist who covers the Swiss Super League to get a perspective on Hassli’s reputation and history in that country. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6077318 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6077318 Wed, 04 May 2011 16:38:00 EDT Canadian Men's National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart held a conference call with members of the media on Tuesday to discuss Canada's upcoming home friendly against Ecuador and the upcoming Gold Cup tournament in the United States this summer. Hart spoke at length about those two topics in particular, as well as other issues such as the impact of the Canadian club teams on the development of youth players for the national programs, World Cup qualifying and Simeon Jackson's role in Norwich gaining promotion to the English Premier League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6076183 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6076183 Wed, 04 May 2011 10:13:00 EDT Simeon Jackson has done it again. The 5'8 striker continues to punch above his weight and prove that he can elevate his game to the level of his competition. His incredible run of form over the last month with Norwich City was stamped Monday night where his game winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Portsmouth ensured the Norfolk club automatic promotion to the Premier League for 2011/12. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6073247 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6073247 Tue, 03 May 2011 17:03:00 EDT This is the 2nd leg of the first round Nutrilite Canadian Championship matchup. In the first game Whitecaps midfielder Terry Dunfield scored the only goal in the game, as Vancouver prevailed 1-0. Both teams are coming off two very different results. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6073244 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6073244 Tue, 03 May 2011 16:57:00 EDT Paul offers his thoughts on the opening matches in the 2011 Canadian Championship Tournament, FC Edmonton, the effect of Dutch Head Coaches on the Canadian soccer landscape, Toronto FC's disasterous loss to the Seattle Sounders, the Vancouver Whitecaps weekend loss to the Columbus Crew, Whitecaps rookie Russell Teibert, Toronto FC designated player Julian de Guzman, TFC Captain Maicon Santos and why there are so few Canadians playing on the Canadian MLS teams. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6070803 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6070803 Tue, 03 May 2011 03:48:00 EDT Simeon Jackson will be joining a small group of Canadian strikers who have competed in England’s Premier League. The news today, and has been for over a month now, is his outstanding run of form that has resulted in another goal for Norwich securing them automatic promotion to the top flight. A 1-0 victory over Portsmouth, coupled with Cardiff City losing 3-0 to Middlesbrough, has put The Canaries back into the Premier League for the first time since 2004/05. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6069514 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6069514 Mon, 02 May 2011 20:06:00 EDT The city of Tokyo is one of the most dynamic and exciting cities on the planet. This is by no means an exaggeration. The city hums with vibrancy unparalleled anywhere in the world. If you like sport then Tokyo is a perfect match. Tokyoites are heavily into different types of sports and sporting events. Along with baseball; soccer has slowly begun to shape itself into a sport widely played throughout Japan. This began to occur in the 1970’s and 1980’s, but did not really shape itself as a force until the formation of the J League (Japan League) in 1992. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6069513 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6069513 Mon, 02 May 2011 20:05:00 EDT MONTREAL IMPACT 5 - FC EDMONTON 0 After losing their first two NASL games as well as their Nutrilite Canadian Championship game against the Vancouver Whitecaps, the Montreal Impact finally found the key to success when they beat FC Edmonton 5-0 in Edmonton on Sunday, May 1. It was the first ever meeting between the two teams as FC Edmonton plays its premiere season in the NASL. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6067861 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6067861 Mon, 02 May 2011 11:22:00 EDT The good thing was that Toronto only lost by three. Beyond that, a poor performance riddled with little creativity and a handful of half-chances. Toronto FC must improve.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6066021 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6066021 Sun, 01 May 2011 23:48:00 EDT Toronto FC, having entered into its fifth cycle of rebuild, have done a lot of positives – at least, that’s what MLSE would like you to believe. Signing players and applauding new coaching selections typify the kind of self-congratulating mentality that Maple Leafs Sports + Entertainment has made its glorious name known for, at least amongst fans across the sports spectrum. Lauded as a real success, the arrivals of Aron Winter and Paul Mariner were fed to fans as the equivalent of playoffs for Toronto. Smiles and handshakes now long forgotten, Winter’s efficiency is now the spotlight issue amongst the Toronto football scene. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6066012 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6066012 Sun, 01 May 2011 23:46:00 EDT Toronto FC 0 - Seattle Sounders 3 Two steps forwards, one step back. Or that's how the saying goes. Aron Winter looked exasperated watching this one from the sidelines and he, more than anyone else, knows that TFC are going to be an up and down squad as the team rebuilds on the fly. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063864 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063864 Sun, 01 May 2011 09:58:00 EDT Toronto FC arrived at Qwest Field bringing a decent amount of momentum heading into their weekend fixture against the Seattle Sounders. After a strong performance in a home draw against the Columbus Crew and a 3-0 demolition against a 10 man FC Edmonton side in their midweek Canadian Championship match, the Reds went into this one with a decent chance of coming away with something in an imposing away atmosphere. With Seattle missing their two leadings scorers, O'Brian White and Steve Zakuani, who has been lost for the season due to a horrific leg break last weekend against Colorado, Toronto found themselves up against a weakened Sounders side that looked like it would field a patchwork offense. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063029 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063029 Sun, 01 May 2011 04:07:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 Columbus Crew 2 Omar Salgado made the most of his first Major League Soccer start by scoring a wonderful headed goal to bring the Vancouver Whitecaps back into a match they were losing 2-0 to the Columbus Crew, but it wasn't enough as his club fell to yet another road loss. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063028 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063028 Sun, 01 May 2011 04:07:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 – Columbus Crew 2 The Whitecaps were looking for both their second win of the MLS season and their first victory on the road. Overall, the team delivered a decent road performance, but, in the end, came away with zero points. Vancouver started this one very slowly as it looked like the club was playing for a draw. When Columbus opened the scoring, the Caps had a difficult time changing to a more offensive set of tactics and they stalled for much of the match. Their offensive performance improved greatly when Nizar Khalfan, Shea Salinas and Jeb Brovsky substituted on in the second half, with the team generating a number of scoring chances and Brovsky delivering his best performance of the campaign.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063027 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6063027 Sun, 01 May 2011 04:00:00 EDT In many ways, second year midfielder Jacob Peterson can be looked at as the perfect representation of Toronto FC as a whole through the early part of the 2011 campaign. At various points, he's looked quite good and at others times it has been a bit of a rough going for him, with his role on the team changing constantly as the TFC coaching staff keeps looking for the ideal starting eleven. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6062214 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6062214 Sat, 30 Apr 2011 22:41:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps hope to break an MLS winless slump that has seen them not register a victory, since the first game of the year versus TFC. The Caps are fresh off the heels of a 1-0 win in Montreal, in the first round of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship. In that match, Vancouver were led by a dominate performance from a midfielder as Russell Teibert made his triumphant return to the starting lineup for the first time since Week 2 versus Philadelphia. The Niagara Falls native received the Man of the Match honours after he set up fellow midfielder Terry Dunfield in the 67th minute for the only goal of the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6057646 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6057646 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:42:00 EDT Toronto FC remain out west after getting a much needed victory mid-week in the Nutrilite Cup against FC Edmonton. Flight delays and all, TFC head to Seattle to take on the dangerous Seattle Sounders whose overall depth will be put to the test on this match up. Missing their two leadings scorers, Steve Zakuani to a horrific leg break last weekend against Colorado, and O’Brian White out as well, the Reds are suddenly in a position where coming out of this one with a result is very achievable. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6057645 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6057645 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:39:00 EDT It was the kind of result that almost erases memories of 2008 when Toronto were unable to assert themselves against what was deemed lesser opposition. On this night, TFC were able to impose themselves both physically and technically on Edmonton, who looked everything a team that only had three games under their belts. A few more games or even a season will serve them well as outside the opening minutes and Kyle Porter, did not appear to have any confidence they could come away with anything against Toronto. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6056751 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6056751 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 11:24:00 EDT Toronto FC, fresh off their home game stretch which saw mixed results, head off to the Emerald City, three points a clear priority. Toronto – who have been decidedly average as they rebuild – has amassed numerous tie-game results up to this point; certainly, one win in six games is not a healthy result, however, Aron Winter’s young side know that positive results are on the way. 

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6054920 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6054920 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 22:53:00 EDT The Whitecaps got the job done in their first 2011 Nutrilite Canadian Championship match with a victory and an away goal. With Toronto FC winning 3-0 in Edmonton, there is now a very good chance that a Canadian MLS team will be hoisting the Championship Trophy and heading to the CONCAF Champions League Qualifying Round. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6054919 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6054919 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 22:52:00 EDT Montreal is first and foremost a hockey city; not a soccer one and nothing was more evident than when the Montreal Impact took on the Vancouver Whitecaps as part of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship. A header from Whitecaps midfielder Terry Dunfield was the only goal in the 1-0 match in Vancouver’s favour, in front of no more than 8,000 fans. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6053551 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6053551 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:07:00 EDT Toronto FC put forth the kind of match that was needed to ensure they come home for the second leg in a strong position to advance to the finals. By not taking their opponents for granted, as was seen in the 2008 tournament, the Reds are one step closer to their third cup in a row. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6051349 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6051349 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 00:16:00 EDT One of the most positive aspects about this summer's Women's World Cup, is the fact that the tournament is being hosted by the German Football Federation - therefore, we know with certainty that the event will run both smoothly and efficiently. While Germany is the expected favourite for top spot when the final takes place on July 17th, another team stands out to challenge for gold - the USA, as expected. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6050280 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6050280 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 18:57:00 EDT Another short layoff for the Caps as they enter the first leg of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship. The Cup which pits squads from Canada against each other has alluded the Caps, since it’s inception in 2008. Vancouver is coming off their 2-1 defeat against FC Dallas at home on Saturday. This was a game that saw them take a 1-0 lead on a goal by defender Alain Rochat. FC Dallas was able to score the equalizer on a corner early on the 2nd half. With just 7 minutes remaining in the match, the Caps conceded another goal, much to the chagrin of goaltender Jay Nolly. The Caps will now fly into Montreal to renew an old rivalry dating back to the days of both squads playing in the NASL. The Impact will be a hungry squad as a good performance against Vancouver, will be a perfect setup to their move next year, as they become the 19th team in the MLS. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6049249 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6049249 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:57:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Toronto FC's recent bounce back draw against Columbus after a poor showing against D.C. United, the Vancouver Whitecaps weekend loss to FC Dallas, new TFC fullback Richard Eckersley, Eric Hassli's latest suspension, Terry Dunfield and the Canadian National Team, the management success of Real Salt Lake and whether or not it would be appropriate for a Canadian MLS team to sign Owen Hargreaves. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6047591 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6047591 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 02:17:00 EDT With the fourth edition of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship kicking off on Wednesday, the tournament has introduced a new format and added a fourth club to the competition in the form of FC Edmonton. While the Vancouver Whitecaps and Montreal Impact will get the chance to renew what was previously an intense second division rivalry in the opening round, Toronto FC will get their first face to face look at the new kids on the block from Edmonton. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6046712 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6046712 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 16:42:00 EDT RedNation and Shaun discuss FC Edmonton’s inaugural season in the NASL, the team’s success early in the 2011 campaign, the club’s upcoming match against Toronto FC in the Nutrilite Canadian Championship tournament, his years with Middlesbrough and represented Canada with the U-23 National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6044549 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6044549 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 01:50:00 EDT Ask new Toronto FC defender Richard Eckersley to compare his current Head Coach Aron Winter to his past skipper Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United and he will most likely state that he hasn't yet had enough time to formulate anything close to a comprehensive answer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6043203 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6043203 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:09:00 EDT Easter weekend has come and gone and with it the drama and intensity of promotion and relegation battles have intensified. There hasn’t been a weekend over the last month without a fixture that a supporter of Canadian internationals in Europe can’t watch with intent. From Simeon Jackson at Norwich City to Nik Ledgerwood at Wehen Wiesbaden, promotion to the next level will go down to the final match, while Iain Hume’s run at Preston has ended in relegation and even Kevin McKenna at FC Koln are in a position where they simply can’t lose in the final weeks or will also go down. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6043202 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6043202 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:06:00 EDT Toronto FC’s goalscoring mini-slump came to a close, Toni Tchani netting late in the first half. Tchani, who was traded for Dwayne De Rosario, found himself gifted a pinpoint pass by Julian de Guzman and slotted home brilliantly. 

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6043197 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6043197 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EDT Toronto FC 1 - Columbus Crew 1 A much needed point for Toronto FC with several positives to take away from their draw with Columbus Satruday afternoon. The first half specifically saw TFC implement and successfully execute the branded possession-style football Aron Winter has been touting since preseason. What was most encouraging was that the majority of possession was not between Stefan Frei and his defenders, but for the most part spread around most of the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6041355 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6041355 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 05:31:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 1 – FC Dallas 2 For all of the good qualities that the Vancouver Whitecaps have shown thus far in their inaugural MLS campaign, things have not started off with Empire Field being anything close to resembling a fortress. The Caps have played exciting, character-laden, attack minded football in their first eight league matches, but they only have one win so far, while playing five of seven matches at home. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6041354 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6041354 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 05:31:00 EDT Heavy winds and a lack of energy in the offensive zones led to a 0-0 draw between the Montreal Impact and FC Tampa Bay at the first game of the season at Saputo Stadium in Montreal on April 23. Tampa opened the game with a strong offensive attack in the 5th minute when midfielder Tsuyoshi Yoshitake deked Impact goaltender Bill Gaudette but dinged the shot off the left post. It turned out to be the most exciting play of the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6038606 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6038606 Sun, 24 Apr 2011 11:07:00 EDT It's a match that should have been remembered for a great second-half turnaround by FC Dallas, which scored two goals in the second-half to overcome Whitecaps FC 2-1. Instead, the talking points will revolve around the theatrics of many of the players and an incident in the 50th minute, when Whitecaps right-back Jonathan Leathers went into a hard tackle against Dallas forward David Ferreira near the corner flag. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6037858 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6037858 Sun, 24 Apr 2011 06:33:00 EDT Toronto FC went into their seventh game of the 2011 season not only looking for their second victory of the campaign, but also looking to bounce back from a poor showing against D.C. United last week. While all the talk leading up to the match among the TFC players and coaches focused on showing more passion and fight, TFC did not find themselves with easy task in going up against the Columbus Crew, a side they have never defeated. The Crew currently sit in 3rd place in the Eastern conference and have been the dominant party in a sometimes heated rivalry between the two clubs. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6037057 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6037057 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 23:40:00 EDT The Whitecaps revolving roster of talent will welcome back one of their opening match starters this weekend. Midfielder Terry Dunfield practiced all week with the squad and looks fit to play on Saturday when FC Dallas visits Empire Field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6033389 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6033389 Fri, 22 Apr 2011 22:57:00 EDT We’re six games into the 2011 season and Toronto FC are home against the Columbus Crew who represent their biggest challenge to date. However, it’s not necessarily the eleven Crew players, or the rivalry between the two teams, that is this test. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6032317 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6032317 Fri, 22 Apr 2011 16:24:00 EDT I recently had my first live match MLS experience with the Whitecaps at home against Chivas USA and it was good but not quite great. There was tons of excitement on game day though, with packed stands and European style vibrations outside the stadium, as well as positive emotions inside it as well. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6026294 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6026294 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 03:18:00 EDT Every team that goes through a major organizational transformation is going to have to endure its own trials and tribulations along with its share of bumps on the road and Toronto FC is no different from any other sports franchise in this regard. According to TFC Designated Player Julian de Guzman every professional team will fall prey to hard losses and off nights, but the Canadian international believes that how a team responds to a shocking defeat in its next match says more about a side than the initial defeat. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6025171 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6025171 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 19:42:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Toronto FC's recent fixtures against the Los Angeles Galaxy and D.C. United, the Vancouver Whitecaps recent draw against Chivas USA, Terry Dunfield, Eric Hassli's return to the lineup from suspension, Whitecaps FC CEO Paul Barber, the Canadian Men's National Team's upcoming home match against Ecuador, Canada's preparations for the Gold Cup and how to generate a sellout for Canada's June 1st Gold Cup warm-up match at BMO Field in Toronto. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6022703 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6022703 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:38:00 EDT One of the most promising newcomers to join Toronto FC for the 2011 campaign is Canadian International Gianluca Zavarise. Before this year, the 24 year old midfielder that TFC Head Coach Aron Winter believes has a bright future, plied his trade in Europe for the last six years. And given his experiences playing previously in Italy, Germany and Greece, the Burnaby, British Columbia believes that the newly European-influenced Toronto FC is the perfect fit him at this point in his career. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6019397 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6019397 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 22:52:00 EDT It’s coming down to the wire for a handful of Canadians in promotion, relegation and title challenges. The 2010/11 season has gone by in a flash and as we get down to the end of April, the picture becomes clearer of where several Canadians will be competing next season. Between Germany, England, and Denmark there are upwards of seven teams that have CMNT players still in the hunt to move up or hopefully remain in their division. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6019170 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6019170 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 21:01:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Even discuss the Canadian Women’s National Team, his return to coaching with Trinidad & Tobago, the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Germany, his thoughts on the difference between coaching men and women, the rise of Major League Soccer in Canada and the important role that Whitecaps owner Greg Kerfoot plays in Canadian Soccer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016778 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016778 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 01:27:00 EDT Toronto FC kept possession for large chunks of time and – for the first time this year – kept the ball in the backline instead of automatically looking at Frei for support.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016776 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016776 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 01:23:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 0 - Chivas USA 0 The Whitecaps went into their match against Chivas USA on Saturday once again missing key players and delivered another impressive performance. With many observers starting to point to the high number of goals that the MLS expansion side had competed in their opening four matches, the team delivered a strong defensive performance and kept a clean sheet. Jay Nolly had a strong day at the office and reinforced his position as the team's number one keeper. Given that the team was missing both Gershon Koffie and Terry Dunfield in the central midfield, the Whitecaps did well to hold off a Chivas team that looked like it was determinded to grab its first win of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016775 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016775 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 01:23:00 EDT Toronto FC 0 - DC United 3 There no two ways to cut this one, Toronto FC were abysmal in this outing and another slow start sunk them under fifteen minutes as DC United came to play and buried the chances that LA, San Jose and Chivas USA couldn’t. The red flags that were starting to come up in early games were flying high after this one as the back line continues to be the Achilles heel, and any kind of scoring depth or options will make it very difficult for the Reds to compete week in week out. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016774 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6016774 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 01:22:00 EDT Fans at Empire Field got their first glimpse of Whitecaps FC's 2011 first overall pick Omar Salgado, but that's about all they'll remember from what was a rather dull 0-0 draw against Chivas USA. After abundant drama in the previous three home matches, this match looked more like a mid-season grind of a game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6014172 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6014172 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 03:24:00 EDT Toronto FC went into Saturday’s fixture against an improved D.C. United squad surely focused on securing all three points. Three straights draws had the Reds undefeated in its last four matches, but a run of draws at home last season pretty much put the final nail in their playoff hopes in 2010 and Aron Winter’s side looked like they were holding something back for this match in the team’s midweek game against the Los Angeles Galaxy. TFC Captain Maicon Santos returned to the lineup, but target man Alan Gordon missed his second straight game due to injury. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6014171 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6014171 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 03:22:00 EDT Last Wednesday’s scoreless draw between Toronto FC and the Los Angeles Galaxy wasn’t only notable due to the fact that it was the first ever league appearance at BMO Field by English superstar David Beckham, it also marked the MLS debut of up and coming Toronto-born midfielder Oscar Cordon. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6013181 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6013181 Sat, 16 Apr 2011 18:42:00 EDT This is the first opportunity for the Whitecaps to play against a Western Conference opponent in the regular season. It’s fitting that it’s Chivas USA, as the Caps are familiar with them and won’t have to dig far in the archives for game film. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6011236 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6011236 Sat, 16 Apr 2011 02:49:00 EDT In this interview, Paul and RedNation discuss how the first part of the Whitecaps campaign has gone from an executive's perspective, the reasons behind the team's successful launch, the media coverage that has exploded with the Whitecaps moving into the MLS and how much impact the MLS brand has had on the increased exposure the club is enjoying. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6011094 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6011094 Sat, 16 Apr 2011 01:48:00 EDT Toronto FC grind through a packed month of games, heading into their third match of the week hosting DC United on Saturday night. The Reds are coming off two good results that saw them punch above their weight and get points against two tough opponents in San Jose and the LA Galaxy. Now DC come to town, as side that is rebuilding from a very poor 2010 that saw them finish far and away the worst side in the league. TFC showed they were able to hang in with two solid teams, and while DC has looked better than last year, if Toronto have some key bodies back in the roster, should be able to secure all three points in this match up. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6010330 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6010330 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:57:00 EDT Ever since Whitecaps season ticket holders received an extra ticket to an undetermined game, the speculation was that Vancouver would be treated to an international friendly. And sure enough, chief executive officer Paul Barber announced today Whitecaps FC will take on Manchester City on July 18th at Empire Field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6009780 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6009780 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 15:34:00 EDT With the MLS incarnation of the Vancouver Whitecaps taking the city, province and country by storm, the 'Caps are the hottest new team in the MLS. But one thing that isn't new is the passion of the Vancouver Southsiders, the Canada’s oldest supporters group. RedNation Online's Conor Hammond has profiled the group and had the opportunity to speak with the Vancouver Southsiders President John Knox. This is the story of the Vancouver Southsiders. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6009633 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6009633 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 14:39:00 EDT Forced to make numerous changes, TFC boss Aron Winter reverted to a 4-3-3 shape for the first time since the season opener against Vancouver. Julian de Guzman made his first start of the year, replacing captain Maicon Santos. Gianluca Zavarise did likewise, he was in for the injured Alan Gordon and Dan Gargan started in place of the out of form Nana Attakora. Meanwhile, Bruce Arena was also without his captain, Landon Donovan, and the visiting LA Galaxy lined up in a broad 4-4-2 shape with David Beckham dropping very deep to pick up the ball. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6008985 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6008985 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 09:48:00 EDT Stephen Hart addressed the media Thursday afternoon with regards to their upcoming friendly June 1st against Ecuador in a short Q&A with Sportsnet's Gerry Dobson. Hart discussed the benefits of getting a match in before the Gold Cup against a quality opponent, but also set out his thoughts and what appears to be the order of priorities for the Men's National Team throughout the rest of the year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6007312 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6007312 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:47:00 EDT It was a night of football where the result outweighed the performance. After surpassing expectations Saturday night against San Jose in a 1-1 draw, Toronto FC returned home against the formidable LA Galaxy. While there were a couple genuine moments of excitement, with a depleted starting XI, they were few and far between. The Reds were extremely fortunate to come away with a point as three times Stefan Frei was beaten, but saved by the woodwork. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6007042 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6007042 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:46:00 EDT Toronto FC 0 Los Angeles Galaxy 0 After going two straight games with the same starting eleven, Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter once again had to significantly change his starting lineup at home against David Beckham and the Los Angeles Galaxy. With Alan Gordon injured and Maicon Santos ill, Gianluca Zavarise got his first start of the season and Stefan Frei wore the Captain’s armband. Designated Player Julian de Guzman also made his first start of the season and Dan Gargan returned to the lineup in place of Nana Attakora. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6004771 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6004771 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 02:14:00 EDT Right on cue, the media has focused all their attention on the arrival of David Beckham, and a bunch of other guys in tow (his entourage?), to BMO Field to take on Toronto FC. Considering the final push to making 2007 a complete sell-out for TFC tickets was the announcement of his arrival to MLS, we thought it would be appropriate that in his first, and possibly only, time to play a league game in Toronto, to discuss what David and Victoria have meant to soccer in North America. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6002958 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6002958 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 11:50:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his thoughts on Toronto FC's draw against San Jose, the Vancouver Whitecaps recent fixtures against New England and Houston, Sam Cronin, David Beckham, Chad Barrett, Real Salt Lake's qualification for the CONCACAF Champions League final, the Canadian Men's U-20 team's failure to qualify for the U-20 World Cup, the Montreal Impact's preparations for their move to Major League Soccer and Aron Winter's recent attempt to close the TFC dressing room off from the media. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6001744 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6001744 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 02:08:00 EDT On just three days rest, Toronto FC return to sunny southern Ontario to host the LA Galaxy in what will be the Reds biggest challenge to date this season. While the Galaxy are not off to the same start as 2010, and have been missing the goals from Edson Buddle, they still possess one of the top midfields, a balanced attack and a strong backline anchored by Omar Gonzalez. Both teams played on Saturday night, so rest will not be an excuse and if Toronto FC come away with anything against the much stronger LA Galaxy, it should be seen as a positive. Even with it being a home match for TFC, LA have been able to come away with wins in the past, without the likes of Donovan and Beckham. With possibly of LA having a full line-up, Toronto will have to put up an even stronger performance than what we saw in San Jose to finish the night with any points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6000186 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=6000186 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 13:53:00 EDT Toronto FC, in the middle of their hectic 3-game week, are coming off a 1-1 tie in California against San Jose Earthquakes. Now, Toronto FC play host to one of California’s other teams. You may have heard of this side, who boast a semi-popular player named David Beckham, the shining light in a team glittered with stars. Los Angeles Galaxy will take to BMO Field, and for Toronto FC, their first true test awaits them. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5998272 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5998272 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 22:48:00 EDT It is one of the most exciting times of the year for football overseas, as leagues are down to the wire and a handful are starting anew. Quite a few Canadians are involved in heated promotion and relegation battles, specifically with a handful having the potential to be playing in a top-flight division next season. In England and Germany where things were so quiet through the winter, the spring thaw has shown more minutes for Canadians and they have rewarded their clubs with some inspiring performances. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5997875 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5997875 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 19:40:00 EDT Toronto FC earned a respectable away draw and debuted an intense style of pressing. For the first time in his TFC career, Aron Winter named an unchanged line up for two matches in a row as Toronto lined up in their now familiar 4-2-3-1. Meanwhile, San Jose coach Frank Yallop lined up his side in a 4-1-4-1/4-3-3 formation with former Toronto midfielder Sam Cronin staying back. This allowed the rest of the San Jose midfield to get forward and support reigning Golden Boot champion, Chris Wondolowski. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5997874 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5997874 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 19:39:00 EDT Houston Dynamo 3 - Vancouver Whitecaps 1 After a number of genuinely inspired and character-filled performance in their first four MLS matches, the Whitecaps were probably due for an off day and they delivered one against the Houston Dynamo. With the Dynamo likely pumped to get their first win of the season and the Vancouver players dealing with injuries to key players, missing starters and mental fatigue, the Whitecaps were never really in this one. Toronto FC fans have seen their team go to Texas and come out flat in the Texas heat on many occasions. With the odds stacked against them from every angle, the team should put this one behind them quickly and focus on their next match against a very winnable opponent in Chivas USA. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5997470 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5997470 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:51:00 EDT Houston Dynamo 3 - Vancouver Whitecaps 1 A stretched Whitecaps FC squad were overrun tonight at Roberston Stadium as the Houston Dynamo won 3-1. With regular starting central midfielders Gershon Koffie and Terry Dunfield missing through suspension and injury, and veteran midfielder John Thorrington also missing out with a calf strain, Whitecaps coach Teitur Thordarson played an experimental duo of rookie Jeb Brovsky and defender Alain Rochat in the heart of midfield. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5996579 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5996579 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:54:00 EDT An unchanged starting XI from last week’s match against Chivas USA saw the same scoreline, but overall a much better team performance against a stronger opponent. Road games have been TFC’s Achilles heel over the last four seasons, but TFC were in this one until the end and in a position where they could have come away will all three points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5995224 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5995224 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 22:35:00 EDT Toronto FC hit the road and for the second time this season, they’ll take an away point. A decent result against San Jose sees Toronto’s progression in the league continue to grow. Alen Stevanovic was particularly impressive in the first half, having created many chances and showing great skill on and off the ball; his positioning was key, getting into good space to receive the pass which eventually saw Alan Gordon slot his second in as many games. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5995223 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5995223 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 22:34:00 EDT Toronto FC went into Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara, California today looking for their first road point of 2011 against the San Jose Earthquakes after eight days of turbulence brought on by the trade of Dwayne De Rosario to the New York Red Bulls. TFC Head Coach Aron Winter started the same starting eleven as he did against Chivas and it payed dividends against former Reds midfielder Sam Cronin and the Earthquakes, who came into this record fielding the same 1-1-1 record as Toronto. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5994104 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5994104 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 13:14:00 EDT Following Eric Hassli's second ejection in only his third match for the Vancouver Whitecaps, observers of the team are wondering two things: one, what on Earth was he thinking, and two, does he have a history of doing this sort of thing? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5992873 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5992873 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 00:40:00 EDT A battle tested Whitecaps squad can ill afford to take this Dynamo team lightly. Though Houston currently is in the basement of the East, there roster contains some real game breakers. The Caps are playing in their 3rd game in 8 days, and once again the revolving door of starting lineups is so worn out, the hinges are shot. Both Eric Hassli and Gershon Koffie will be missing due to suspension. Emotional leader Terry Dunfield will also be absent due to a groin injury he sustained on Wednesday versus the Revolution. However, the Dynamo are not without their own slew of injuries. Midfielder Brad Davis is questionable nursing a hamstring injury. Also last years leading goalscorer Brian Ching is doubtful with a rib separation. You’d never know that Ching’s injury is an issue. This is after hearing what Houston head coach Dominic Kinnear had to say this week. ”We'll wait and see ( if he can play), but his attitude is of one for always wanting to play, hurt or not. I think he does know when you can and can't play, but his desire to play is inspiring.” http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5991546 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5991546 Sat, 09 Apr 2011 12:41:00 EDT TFC head back out to the west coast to take on the San Jose Earthquakes after a successful two-game homestand that saw them take four out of six points. However, in Toronto’s first three games, they have faced two expansion sides and the rebuilding Chivas USA. San Jose are a team that have stability and have kept their key contributors from 2010, a season that saw them knock of the New York Red Bulls in the playoffs and see their best year since their previous incarnation. It looks near impossible that TFC will be able to come away with anything against a team that is very much in form and has a solid foundation in place. This game will show how far off TFC are from becoming a truly competitive side as the Earthquakes, at home, will be heavy favourites going into this match. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5989217 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5989217 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 13:41:00 EDT RedNation and Simon discuss Montreal’s preseason and preparations for their North American Soccer League season which kicks off on Saturday against Tampa Bay, his role with the Impact, Montreal’s preparations for their move to Major League Soccer in 2012, Impact striker Ali Gerba, rivalries between the Montreal Impact, Vancouver Whitecaps and Toronto FC, and the potential for professional soccer in Montreal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5988292 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5988292 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 02:53:00 EDT In this interview, Sam and RedNation discuss the success that he and the Earthquakes enjoyed in the latter part of the 2010 season and in the 2010 MLS Playoffs, San Jose’s start to their 2011 MLS campaign, playing under Canadian Head Coach Frank Yallop, Sam’s thoughts on what it takes to be successful within Major League Soccer and the Earthquakes upcoming match against a Toronto FC squad that no longer features Dwayne De Rosario. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5988160 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5988160 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 01:09:00 EDT It was the kind of match PSV had not experienced yet this season. A near-complete and total domination at the hands of Portugal's Benfica have put them down 4-1 in the opening leg of the Europa League quarter finals. It will take a comeback of massive proportions for the Eindoven side to progress through to the semis, and if the other matches played today are any indication, the Netherlands look to be several steps behind the top leagues in Europe. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5987473 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5987473 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 18:57:00 EDT With Toronto FC Head Coach Aron Winter having brought in a number of new players since the Major League Soccer season started and with him fielding a different starting eleven in each of the team's first three fixtures, it's clear that the Dutchman is both looking for the right mix of players for his ideal starting eleven and continuing to build the depth that will be crucial over the course of a full MLS campaign. One player who provides Winter with a number of different options is recently signed Jamaican International Dicoy Williams. The 24 year old native of Kingston, Jamaica is a versatile player who can bring height and pace to a number of different positions on the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5987207 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5987207 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EDT Four games into their MLS existence and the Whitecaps look like the best team in Canada and a genuine playoff contender. Following on the heels of their exciting comeback draw against Kansas City, Vancouver delivered another intelligent and character laden performance. If not for the narcissism and outright incompetence of referee Baldomero Toledo, this likely would have been a Whitecaps victory. Referees are easy targets and are often unfairly abused by observers, but in the case of the Toledo, he deserved the boos leveled at him by the Vancouver supporters. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5986946 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5986946 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:29:00 EDT It was the Baldomero Toledo show at Empire Field tonight, as the Mexican-born referee took centre stage by sending off three players, handing out six yellows and calling a penalty. In between Toledo's performance, during which he called 24 fouls, a football game between the Vancouver Whitecaps and New England Revolution developed in fits and starts, before coming to a dramatic 1-1 conclusion. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5986284 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5986284 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:01:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his expert opinion on the Dwyane De Rosario trade, Toronto FC's draw against Chivas USA, the Vancouver Whitecaps comeback draw against Sporting Kansas City, Teal Bunbury and Junior Hoilett, the Canadian Men's National Team's recent win over Belarus, his thoughts on National Team forwards Simeon Jackson and Rob Friend, Canada’s Men’s U-20 squad and the arguments for and against instituting a top flight Canadian soccer league. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5982334 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5982334 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 01:08:00 EDT Both teams are coming off of ties in their weekend fixtures. But both draws are registering differently in each locker room. The ‘Caps are riding a wave of momentum after they made a 3 goal comeback in the 2nd half against Sporting Kansas City Saturday. This included 2 goals from striker Camilo in extra time. They finished with a hard fought 3-3 draw. The Revolution in contrast was disappointed with their efforts in 1-1 tie against the Portland Timbers. According to ESPN Boston “ The side is looking to get back on the pitch to prove that the result was nothing more than a fluke.” http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5982228 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5982228 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 23:55:00 EDT When Toronto FC acquired Swiss born, Serbian international midfielder Alen Stevanovic on loan from Torino F.C. of Italy's Serie B league on March 24th, the assumption was that the talented 20 year was being brought in to add another offensive option to a team already overly reliant on midfielder/forward Dwayne De Rosario to score goals. Fast forward a couple of weeks and Stevanovic now finds himself as essentially the replacement in the lineup for Toronto FC's recently traded all-time leading scorer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5982159 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5982159 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 23:36:00 EDT Aron Winter inserted both Tony Tchani and Danleigh Borman straight into his line up and kept the same 4-2-3-1 shape that won last week but was only able to escape BMO Field with a draw as Robin Fraser earned his first point as manager. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5978796 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5978796 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 20:22:00 EDT On the day following a famous 3-3 tie with Sporting Kansas City, Whitecaps FC coach Teitur Thordarson was in good spirits as he oversaw a training session mainly comprising fringe players, rookies and those returning from injury. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5978095 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5978095 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:05:00 EDT It was one of the best and most productive weeks for Canadians abroad perhaps all year. Starting off with a solid 1-0 victory over Belarus mid-week, the majority of players called in for the friendly, and some who weren’t, returned to their clubs to put in the minutes and in some cases outstanding performances. There are several intriguing stories developing across Europe that has Canadian involved, whether it be promotion or relegation, coming down to the wire of the season, there will be many key matches to watch that will have internationals playing a part in them. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976414 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976414 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 23:12:00 EDT It was one split decision away from being all three points for Toronto FC, but a jink here, a large patch of dead grass there, a speedy defender all combined to snuff out salvaging a drab afternoon of football for the Reds. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976285 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976285 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 22:19:00 EDT The Whitecaps arrived back at home to take on Sporting Kansas City with key players missing from the lineup due to injury (Jay DeMerit), suspension (Eric Hassli) and international duty (Russel Teibert). As the match progressed, what looked like a sure loss became a thrilling comeback draw that suggests that the Whitecaps have more depth than observers have been giving them credit for. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976284 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976284 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 22:18:00 EDT A 1-1 draw, taking a point at home, while not the greatest result, is also one that no one can really complain about. Though Chivas – who finished dead last in the western conference last year – are not the greatest side, Toronto will take the point and look ahead.

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976283 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5976283 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 22:18:00 EDT Camilo Sanvezzo scored two goals in injury time to give Whitecaps FC what will surely be their most memorable draw of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5974879 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5974879 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 09:37:00 EDT Toronto FC kicked off the Post Dwayne De Rosario era today against Chivas USA after Reds supporters endured a peculiar Friday in which rumours that were originally construed by most to be an April Fools Day joke ultimately materialized into a genuine trade of the team’s all-time leading scorer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5973467 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5973467 Sat, 02 Apr 2011 20:52:00 EDT With the 2011 MLS campaign now in full swing, there are more Canadians than ever now signed to clubs competing in the North American top flight. In terms of sheer numbers, Toronto FC can still lay claim to the title of Canada’s team, but the Vancouver Whitecaps have a pair of exciting Canadian players in their starting XI, not to mention a Canadian born Swiss defender. When looking at the diversity of the Canadians spread across the league it’s not easy to settle on just ten to watch in 2011. Injuries to talented youngsters like Nicholas Lindsay and Edson Edward mean we will likely have to wait until next year to see how their stories progress. Veterans like Adrian Cann, Ante Jazic and Greg Sutton present some intriguing individual and team storylines, but, for the most part, it’s likely a safe bet to predict that they will be solid performers who provide their clubs with experience and consistency. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5972250 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5972250 Sat, 02 Apr 2011 10:38:00 EDT With the trade of Dwayne De Rosario to the New York Red Bulls today, Toronto FC will have to not only replace the offensive production of the most consistent scorer in the club's short history, they will have to name a new team captain as well. Given all of his public outbursts concerning his salary, many have argued that the Scarborough native was not fit to remain in the role of team captain even if he had remained a member of TFC. One reason the Canadian international likely remained in the role until his trade to New York was surely the desire of Toronto management not to alienate him any further. But another reason is likely the fact that the TFC roster is not exactly overflowing with veteran leaders or brimming with candidates for the captain's armband. Aron Winter is likely considering several players to take over as the official team leader among the players, but all have their positives and their drawbacks when you consider them for the position that the departure of De Rosario has left vacant. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5970417 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5970417 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EDT It was no April Fools' Day joke. Team captain and all-time leading scorer Dwayne De Rosario has in fact been dealt to the New York Red Bulls. In exchange, TFC get midfielder and 2010 MLS Superdraft #2 pick Toni Tchani, left-back Danleigh Borman and a first-round draft pick. What started out as a trickle of rumours turned into a flood in information, confirming that De Rosario was on the outs and on his way to the Big Apple. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5970395 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5970395 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:52:00 EDT The Whitecaps look to redeem themselves this weekend when they host Sporting Kansas City. Both squads will be without the leading goalscorers on the day. The Caps Eric Hassli will be sitting out thanks to receiving two yellow cards versus Philadelphia last week. Coincidently KC will be without their top import striker Omar Bravo, who got sent off after a debatable foul early in the match versus the Chicago Fire. Sporting has fielded quite the offensive powerhouse this year, registering 5 goals in two matches. Vancouver on the other hand, has had a bit of a drop off. After scoring 4 against TFC, they were shutout by a stingy Philadelphia squad last week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5969004 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5969004 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 05:53:00 EDT Toronto FC are home again at BMO Field to take on another rebuilding squad that is the LA Galaxy’s ugly step sister, Chivas USA. It appeared after week one of the new MLS season that Portland looked to be the side most lacking depth, especially with key injuries, but TFC have been served up another significantly reduced side in Chivas who are missing key veterans and youngsters from their starting eleven. Much like Portland last weekend, Chivas now have few impact players in their roster that can realistically make a dent, even against the Reds who are still sorting out their line-up and getting their feet beneath them. While there is still the threat that is Justin Braun, Chivas USA have looked poor thus far, and with a home win under their belt and a small handful of starters in good form, three points for Toronto are well within grasp. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5968003 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5968003 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:38:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps officially added centreback Mouloud Akloul to their roster this morning, adding some defensive depth. The 28-year-old Frenchman played only two games with the club in USSF Division 2 last season, after suffering an ankle injury while scoring the winning goal on his debut on April 24, 2010, against AC St. Louis. He didn’t return until the Caps final game of the season on October 2, 2010. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5967992 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5967992 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:37:00 EDT Toronto FC comes off a Javier Martina-inspired victory over Portland, looking for another win against Chivas USA. The Los Angeles-based club, who finished bottom of the Western Conference, are also out for some newfound glories. For these two clubs, a new season means a new chance at success, and Chivas – who play in a very competitive conference – will need to take as many points away from home as possible. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5966311 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5966311 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 01:57:00 EDT Canada's classy display in Antalya yesterday evening was largely attributed to the effectiveness of its central midfield trio. The group’s strong performance will leave Stephen Hart pondering his options in the middle of the park. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5964463 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5964463 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:14:00 EDT In this episode of the Paul James on Soccer podcast, Paul offers his expert opinion on Toronto FC's performance in their first two matches of the 2011 campaign, TFC Head Coach Aron Winter's tactical approach, the Vancouver Whitecaps, Will Johnson's recent comments concerning culture change with the Canadian Men's National Team, Ali Gerba's decision to decline his invitation to suit up for Canada against Belarus, the importance of character when selecting players for National Team duty and recent developments with Canada's youth National Teams. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5963409 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5963409 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 02:36:00 EDT A second half header by Andre Hainault earned Canada a much needed win over a quality European opponent after dropped results in Greece and Ukraine. They collapsed late in Kiev, they fell short in Larissa, but finally Canada got the result they were looking for with a 1-0 win over Belarus in Antalya, Turkey. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5962294 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5962294 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 17:49:00 EDT When Toronto FC midfielder Jacob Peterson arrived at training camp in advance of the 2011 Major League Soccer season he came in knowing he was going to have to win over new Toronto Head Coach and Technical Director Aron Winter after enjoying something akin to most favoured status under previous TFC Head Coaches Preki and Nick Dasovic in 2010. And while he started off slowly last season due to the fact he was coming back from an ACL injury suffered in 2009, the native of Portage, Michigan figured that he had ended the season strong and was ready to compete for a starting spot on the wing in Toronto’s reconstituted 4-3-3 formation. Two games into the MLS season, Winter has selected Peterson for his starting eleven, but it hasn’t been in a wide role. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5960063 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5960063 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 23:36:00 EDT For all the talk of Toronto FC showing their fans their much talked about possession oriented 4-3-3 formation for the first time at home Aron Winter sprung a surprise lining his side up in a 4-2-3-1 shape. Alan Gordon came in for Nick Soolsma and Mikael Yourassowsky played left back replacing the injured Nana Attakora as Adrian Cann moved into the middle. John Spencer kept the same eleven that lost last week to Colorado and Toronto faced a rigid 4-4-2 for the second week in a row. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5959916 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5959916 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 22:09:00 EDT In anticipation of an exciting summer of competitive football, there is a rejuvenated sense of determination at the team’s camp in Turkey as players compete for the right to represent Canada at the Gold Cup and beyond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5958661 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5958661 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:29:00 EDT Toronto FC's home opener ended with Toronto taking 3 points. Aron Winter's lineup, which featured several offensive players, managed to crack down on Portland and see the game through. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5957356 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5957356 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 00:03:00 EDT Philadelphia Union 1 - Vancouver Whitecaps 0 The Whitecaps went into their first MLS road fixture with a significantly altered starting eleven, as Jay Nolly and Davide Chiumiento were out with injuries and Jay DeMerit and Michael Boxall were away on International duty. Their absences in a match that was the Philadelphia Union’s Home Opener made this a tough affair right from the get go. While this one goes into the books as a loss, the Whitecaps played a decent road game in which they were legitimately in contention for at least a draw for the fully ninety minutes. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5957355 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5957355 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 00:02:00 EDT Toronto FC 2 – Portland 0 It might sound bold to determine the second game of the season as “must-win” but Toronto FC have a tradition of not always putting away lesser opposition, especially at home. What was served up to TFC was a Portland side who have less depth and fewer impact players, as aside from Kenny Cooper and Jack Jewsbury, none stand out on paper and fewer on the pitc http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5957354 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5957354 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 00:01:00 EDT Call it careless, clumsy or just plain stupid, but a couple of rash decisions by Eric Hassli undid 56 minutes of what had been an excellent away performance from the Vancouver Whitecaps in Philadelphia against the Union. The big target man's sending off in the 57th minute meant the Caps played the last third of the game a man down, and the Union took full advantage, as Sebastien Le Toux latched onto an awkward deflection to set up Carlos Ruiz for the game's only goal in the 77th minute. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5954761 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5954761 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:07:00 EDT Toronto arrived back at home at BMO Field today for their 2011 Home Opener against expansion franchise the Portland Timbers. Following a week to regroup after a poor display in their season opener in Vancouver last week, TFC made a number of changes to the lineup as Head Coach Aron Winter looks for the winning formula among his personnel. While Mikael Yourassowsky and Alan Gordon made their first starts for TFC at left back and forward respectively and Adrian Cann was back at the centre back position, Reds fans would have to wait another week to see the central defense duo of Cann and Attakora in action together, with the latter still recovering from an injury picked up in the Whitecaps match. Ty Harden started his second straight match in front of keeper Stefan Frei in place of Attakora http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5954591 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5954591 Sat, 26 Mar 2011 22:58:00 EDT Omar Salgado, the 17-year-old U-20 U.S. international, has received international clearance from FIFA to play for the Vancouver Whitecaps, effective immediately. The international footballing authority's decision represents an exemption to the standard rules, which prohibit players under 18 years of age from playing professional football outside of their country of birth unless they live with their parents. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5951879 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5951879 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 22:51:00 EDT It’s a battle between two sides that have striking similarities. Both won their opening week fixtures, Vancouver 4-2 over TFC, Philadelphia 1-0 over the Houston Dynamo. Both are newbies in the MLS, with the Whitecaps being an expansion club, and the Union in their 2nd season. Both have a dangerous French strikers. The ‘Caps field Eric Hassli who has already struck twice in the match against TFC. Sebastien Le Toux is upfront for the Union, and is coming off of a 14 goal 2010 season. Both teams will also be asking a lot from their goalkeepers in this match. The Whitecaps Jay Nolly will be relied on heavily Saturday, as his squad will be fielding a much different looking defense. Nolly’s opposite, Colombian keeper Faryd Mondragon, was Philadelphia’s key acquisition in the offseason. The Union led the league in goals allowed last season, but looked much tighter defensively last week with Mondragon captaining from the back. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5949366 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5949366 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 02:35:00 EDT In this interview, Terry and RedNation discuss his decision to leave England to return home to sign with the Whitecaps, Vancouver's win over Toronto FC in Vancouver's inaugural MLS match and representing Canada at the International level. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5949273 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5949273 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 01:35:00 EDT Home sweet home. After a season opener that TFC would more than likely want to just move on from and forget all together, they return to the comfy confines that are BMO Field for their first home game of the 2011 season. By comfy that means sub-zero temperatures and a soaked pitch, of course. Coming into the Reds domain are the Portland Timbers who looked everything that an expansion side should last week in a 3-1 handling by the MLS Cup Champions Colorado Rapids. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5949003 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5949003 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 23:32:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps won't be the only team on a high heading into their weekend match-up against Philadelphia. Like the Caps, the Union are coming off a confidence boosting win in their first match of the season, having defeated the Houston Dynamo 1-0 on the road last Saturday. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5946636 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5946636 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 21:38:00 EDT Toronto FC will take to the field against the newest expansion side – The Portland Timbers – on a chilly Saturday afternoon. Having succumbed to a 4-2 humiliation against bitter-but-not-quite-bitter archrivals Vancouver Whitecaps, Toronto FC will be looking to restart their season and put old wounds to bed. Portland, however, will be looking at Toronto FC and licking their lips; for the green-clad Oregonians, the scent of 3 points will be wavering in the air. That being said, these 10 keys to the game will see Toronto triumph, and kick-start their season properly, gaining 3 points and – hopefully – some momentum as well:

 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5946635 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5946635 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 21:37:00 EDT RedNation Online's Conor Hammond sits down with Vancouver Whitecaps captain Jay DeMerit and discusses playing overseas, changing environments, supporters, the U.S. National Team, participating in the 2010 World Cup and joining the Vancouver Whitecaps. Video edited by Paul Albi. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5944931 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5944931 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 04:35:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Kara discuss her exceptional playing career, competing with the Canadian Women’s National Team, Carolina Morace, the Vancouver Whitecaps, CSA Governance Reform and the implications of Canada hosting the 2015 World Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5944739 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5944739 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 01:39:00 EDT With the announcement of the players called up for Canada’s friendly against Belarus March 29, the next few weeks for those listed will be under a microscope as Stephen Hart’s squad for the Gold Cup will begin to look clearer. Of the players competing overseas, it is encouraging to see that Mike Klukowski has been named and will likely compete as the match is taking place in Turkey where he is playing for his club, Ankaragucu. Kevin McKenna continues to recover from injury at FC Koln in the Bundesliga, but his call up should indicate that once he is fit, will likely be a part of the team despite missing a large portion of the 2010/11 campaign. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5941618 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5941618 Mon, 21 Mar 2011 19:25:00 EDT Toronto FC’s forward line is looking cohesive, sharp and, for the most part, technically efficient. Scoring goals does not seem to be a worrying issue for the Reds in 2011. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939361 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939361 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 22:29:00 EDT It’s only one game. That’s the mantra that hopeful TFC fans are likely repeating after watching their TFC side get dismantled by the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday. With Toronto looking disorganized and ragged for much of their season-opening loss, any wishful thinking that TFC was going to be able to deliver a 180 degree turn from their poor preseason performances was effectively dispelled. For new TFC Head Coach Aron Winter the defeat marked an inauspicious start to his Major League Soccer career. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939360 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939360 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 22:28:00 EDT It was a tough game to witness for Toronto FC supporters as it is now all but confirmed that this squad is unprepared and ill-equipped for the tactics being used and season that is before them. Vancouver were simply more effective, better organized and boasted a balanced roster that was able to find TFC’s weaknesses and capitalize on their mistakes. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939356 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939356 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 22:21:00 EDT It’s hard to imagine a more fairy tale start to their MLS existence than yesterday’s convincing 4-2 defeat of Canadian rivals Toronto FC. While several Caps players shone very brightly, this was a complete team win in which every Whitecap that took to the pitch played their role pretty closely to perfection. Both those who attended the match in person and those that watched the game on TSN were witness to a squad in which all of the parts fit together on this day and everything clicked the way Tom Soehn and Teitur Thordarson likely had hoped that they would. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939355 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5939355 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 22:21:00 EDT Please adjust your bookmarks, as rednationonline.ca has launched its new website. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5937913 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5937913 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:40:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps 4 Toronto FC 2 The Vancouver Whitecaps marked their entry into Major League Soccer with an explosive 4-2 victory tonight over Toronto FC in front of a packed Empire stadium. 22,592 fans watched Eric Hassli open his account with two goals, making Whitecaps Director of Soccer Operations Tommy Soehn, the man responsible for player signings and recommendations, look very clever indeed. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5937896 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5937896 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:22:00 EDT Canada announced its roster today for the upcoming Men’s International Friendly against Belarus on March 29th and, as expected, it leans heavily to European-based players. Head Coach Stephen Hart has selected 18 players for the match, which will be played on a FIFA International Date in Antalya, Turkey. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5933488 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5933488 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:15:00 EDT As Toronto FC enters its fifth season, the squad has, once again, gone through a variety of changes. Under Aron Winter, the Reds look to improve on their 2010 campaign, which saw Toronto out of the playoffs and once again revolving a door that has seemingly been spinning since it was installed, five years ago. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5932098 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5932098 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:15:00 EDT It was a stark contrast to the first leg at the Phillips Arena in Eindoven. A very quiet opening 0-0 draw put PSV in a tough spot traveling to Glasgow and specifically Ibrox to face Rangers in the away leg to see who would progress in the tournament. However, the Dutch side have been resilient away from home throughout the year and an early goal by Jermain Lens held up as the critical away goal putting PSV through 1-0 over Rangers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5932068 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5932068 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:16:00 EDT And so it begins. The 2011 season for both Vancouver and Toronto kick off this Saturday at Empire Field as the two go head to head for the first time ever in MLS play. While Vancouver are the ‘official’ expansion side in this Canadian tilt, the stark reality is that both clubs are coming into the season essentially starting from scratch and rebuilding a roster to compete in North America’s top division. While you’d have hoped TFC would have built a solid starting eleven by their fifth season, they only have a core of four or five players who are legitimate starters. Vancouver are a mix of a few MLS vets, players kept from last season, a few academy grads and some from overseas. Both teams left their signings to the last minute and while TFC are still the side coming up short in numbers, they should have enough experience from their key players to come out of B.C. with something positive. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931856 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931856 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:18:00 EDT It’s another round of Counter Attack: Canadian Edition. That’s right, the completely unmanufactured derby between Toronto and Vancouver because we all know nothing says rivalry like a separation of 3000 kilometres. However, it is a historic day as once again Toronto and Vancouver are competing in North America’s top tier of football and pride is at stake as to who will lay claim as the best side north of the 49th parallel. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931853 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931853 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:18:00 EDT With Toronto FC travelling to Vancouver on Thursday ahead of their season opener and the Major League Soccer debut of the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday, members of the team met with the media at BMO Field on Wednesday to discuss the first ever MLS match featuring two Canadian sides. And while the Canadians on the team are especially excited about the proposition of more Canadian clubs in the North American top flight, Saturday’s match is one that every member of TFC feels is more special than a standard season opening affair. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931847 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931847 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:19:00 EDT Naysayers worried about Toronto FC’s less than stellar preseason performances have in recent weeks often pointed to a sense of déjà vu when commenting on the so called new beginning that the team has been going through. They see a team once again waiting until the very last minute to sign players to fill out the roster and a squad that still looks to be short on ability and experience at the wide positions. The fullback positions were very much the Achilles heel for Toronto FC in 2010 and, while Nick Garcia, Raivis Hscanovics and Maxim Usanov are gone, many have openly wondered if the team actually has the players required to play a system focused on build up play from the back. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931846 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931846 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:20:00 EDT It’s a game that pits East versus West. Van City against Hog Town. Yes for an opening day clash, the MLS schedulers have made the smart decision to feed off of an already brewing rivalry between Vancouver and Toronto. Whitecaps CEO Paul Barber realizes this, and helped feed the buzz for Saturday's match. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931845 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5931845 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:20:00 EDT The CSA have confirmed that Canada will take on Belarus in a friendly on March 29th in Antalya, Turkey. National team reporter Max Bell talks us through the potential picks for a Canadian roster that is likely to be missing a number of key MLS-based players. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5924728 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5924728 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:21:00 EDT Crossing over … well, county lines in Texas, we move from the Western Conference to the Eastern Conference that has seen a splash of orange in Toronto and in the table as Houston are now in a new, and truthfully, easier conference to compete in. With the top three in each conference earning a spot in the quarter-finals, the second and third spot in the East is wide open, as it is almost a forgone conclusion that New York will finish atop the table. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5923186 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5923186 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:29:00 EDT With the Canadian Soccer Association announcing today that the Canadian Men's National Team will indeed be facing Belarus in an International Friendly match on March 29th, 2011, CMNT supporters are likely hoping that the association is also working to arrange a home match for the team as well. In fact, one date on the FIFA Calendar stands out as the perfect date for the men in red and white to play at their National Soccer Stadium in Toronto in 2011: June 1st. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5923185 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5923185 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EDT It has been a relatively low-key week for Canadians playing overseas, with few having stand out performances and limited playing time becoming a common theme each week for those in England and Germany. Save for a few here and there, such as Marcel De Jong at Augsburg and Iain Hume at Preston North End, each one’s colleagues in the same division are watching from the bench for the most part. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5920723 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5920723 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:30:00 EDT The countdown is now in full effect and all the talk about preseason meaning nothing will have to be backed up with games that now count. 2011 represents a huge change to the league with two expansion teams joining in Vancouver and Portland, Houston moving to the Eastern Conference and a new and EXCITING (sarcasm emphasized in all caps) playoff format that unfortunately will continue to reward mediocrity and put the top teams at risk. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5920582 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5920582 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:31:00 EDT In the final game before the real deal next weekend, the Colorado Rapids defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps with a 79th minute strike from Jamie Smith, who drilled the ball into the top right corner. Joe Cannon managed to get a piece of the ball, but the pure power behind the strike didn't give the 36-year-old keeper much of a chance. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5918790 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5918790 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 08:31:00 EDT Toronto FC supporters were hoping for something akin to a regular season performance from their club in the team's final preseason tune-up against D.C. United and TFC delivered enough to suggest that they are ready to be competitive when the matches that count begin next Saturday. The Reds delivered a gutsy performance in drawing against the reigning Carolina Challenge Cup title holders while playing a large portion of the game with ten men. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5918667 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5918667 Sat, 12 Mar 2011 22:45:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps will close the exhibition campaign tomorrow against the Colorado Rapids. This will be the ‘Caps first chance to check out their new digs, as the team officially has made the move from Swanguard Stadium to Empire Field. They have the daunting task of playing the defending MLS Champions in this final fixture. However recently the Caps have put together a string of good results, with 2 wins and a tie in the last three matches. This included a 3-2 victory over the Seattle Sounders at the Cascadia Summit last Sunday. The Rapids have been on a bit of a slide of late dropping the last two games. This was after opening the season undefeated with two victories and a tie. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5916345 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5916345 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 19:17:00 EDT Yesterday the Vancouver Whitecaps unveiled Eric Hassli, the club’s first designated player. Hassli introduced himself to the city by stating he’s “happy to be here,” and said he wants to score goals and help the team win matches. Hardly revolutionary stuff for a newly signed striker to say, but he did expand on that by stating through a translator that he was impressed with the team’s ambition and vision for the future. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5915261 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5915261 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 08:53:00 EDT Timing is everything. After being downed 2-1 by the Charleston Battery Wednesday night, despite the reminders that it’s ‘just preseason’ and it was not the ideal starting eleven, Toronto FC did not look anything close to a competitive MLS side. One of the most glaringly deficient areas of the pitch in the loss was central defence, especially potential replacements for Adrian Cann, Dicoy Williams and Mikael Yourassowsky. Not even a day later, it appears the organization and Cann have come to terms with a contract and the Toronto native will be returning to the club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5914564 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5914564 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 22:23:00 EDT Canada supporters will get a glimpse of a potential midfield clash in Thursday’s Europa League match between PSV Eindoven and Glasgow Rangers. Canadian midfielder Atiba Hutchinson will likely be standing across from American, and former TFC #7, Maurice Edu in the round of 16 of the tournament at Phillips Stadium in Eindhoven. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5912815 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5912815 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:51:00 EDT Toronto FC played their second match in the Carolina Challenge Cup Preseason tournament today and fell 2-1 to the Charleston Battery. Once again Aron Winter fielded a side primarily composed of trialists and Academy players. Dwayne De Rosario and Maicon Santos sat this one out, as did the still recovering from injury Julian de Guzman. Jamaican trialist Dicoy Williams got the start in the centre of defence alongside Nana Attakora. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5912773 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5912773 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:26:00 EDT With Toronto FC entering their 5th season following an existence mostly characterized by coaching and player turnover, there are now a pretty decent number of former TFC players plying their trades for other clubs in the MLS. While former Toronto FC players like Todd Dunivant have established themselves as dependable role players and others like Julius James look like they will never fulfil the potential that Toronto fans had hoped they would with the Reds, many others present quite intriguing storylines heading into First Kick 2011. Whether you love them, hate them or are just plain indifferent to anyone not wearing a TFC jersey, the following ten ex-TFC players will be interesting to watch as the 2011 Major League Soccer season unfolds. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5912487 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5912487 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 19:35:00 EDT From the start of preseason, it was understood that Davide Chiumiento was in the Whitecaps' plans, but today they made it official. Chiumiento finished last season with the Whitecaps in USSF Division 2, playing five matches. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5911637 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5911637 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 09:31:00 EDT With the Vancouver holding on for a 3-2 victory over the Seattle Sounders on Sunday afternoon at the Starfire Stadium in Tukwila, Washington, the Whitecaps finished what has to be considered a successful pair of preseason matches at the Cascadia Summit with a draw and a victory against their Pacific Northwest rivals. RedNation Online's Martin MacMahon spoke with the Whitecaps Joe Cannon following the team's draw with Portland and Omar Salgado following the team's victory over Seattle to get their thoughts on the preseason matches and how the team is shaping up in advance of Vancouver's Major League Soccer debut. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5907766 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5907766 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:03:00 EDT Finally. Winter breaks are over and in a few more weeks Summer seasons will kick off. Denmark, Romania and Serbia are all back at it while Norway is not far behind to start their season and Finland as well. At this time of the year it becomes almost surprising how many Canadians are competing abroad and with numbers increasing the disappointment surrounding key players in England and Germany not making it onto the pitch is almost balanced out by the excitement of up-and-comers who are starting to make their mark outside of the big four leagues in Europe. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5906654 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5906654 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 20:40:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps played a strong second half to come out with a 1-1 tie in Tukwila, Washington tonight in the first of two matches it will play during the Cascadia Summit preseason tournament this weekend. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5905921 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5905921 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 09:14:00 EDT Toronto FC kicked off their first match in the Carolina Challenge Cup Preseason tournament today and fell 1-0 to MLS Eastern Conference rivals the Chicago Fire. For antsy TFC supporters it was very much a glass half empty, glass half full affair with some positive signs and some warning signals that show little signs of abating in advance of the kickoff of the 2011 Major League Soccer season in a couple of weeks. A couple of trialists showed plenty to suggest that they can be contributors for the first team. On the other hand, the team once again did not resemble a side that looked like it was capable of challenging for a playoff spot. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5905232 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5905232 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 22:17:00 EDT Yesterday, the Vancouver Whitecaps announced the signing of their first designated player, 29-year-old striker Eric Hassli. The French striker has played for FC Zurich since 2007, and will join the team pending a medical and international clearance. Of all the names bandied about for the Whitecaps' first designated player, from Robbie Keane to Robbie Savage, Hassli ranks well down in terms of sexiness and name recognition. Very few Whitecaps fans will have any idea of who Hassli is or what he will bring to the table. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5904494 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5904494 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 11:13:00 EDT With the news on Thursday that the Canadian Soccer Association has been successful in its bid to host the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, one early question that has been raised surrounds which city will get to host the final. Seven cities committed to be included in the bid submission - Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montreal, Ottawa, Halifax and Moncton - and each city will be visited by FIFA delegates in order to determine which site will be most appropriate to host the final. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5903170 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5903170 Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:29:00 EDT The burning question of the day, even before Adrian Cann left training camp, has been “Given their current state, will Toronto FC be any better than what we’ve seen over the last four seasons?” It’s a tough call as there is room to discuss the immediate future but also long term potential of the team under Aron Winter. Signings have thus far left much to be desired, but players are genuinely excited and committed to their coach and the philosophy he brings to the pitch. With management stating they aren’t going to pull the plug on the result of ‘Project Klinsmann’ and give time and patience that was not bestowed on predecessors, Winter has time to deliver what supporters have yet to see at BMO Field and that is a winning team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5902758 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5902758 Fri, 04 Mar 2011 12:42:00 EDT Yesterday, Vancouver Whitecaps FC officially unveiled Jay DeMerit as their captain for their debut season in Major League Soccer. While stating he was proud of the honour, he repeatedly emphasized the importance of “multiple captains” and the idea of leadership throughout the squad. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5900517 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5900517 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:17:00 EDT Ever since Whitecaps midfielder Martin Nash announced his retirement last October, many have speculated as to who his successor would be. As an organization, the Whitecaps have often been lauded as one with a management team laden with exceptional leaders and savvy connected movers and shakers in the forms of Barber, Soehn, Lenarduzzi and Thordarson. However, until today the team still needed to anoint an on the pitch leader to guide the squad through the club inaugural Major League Soccer campaign. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899396 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899396 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 20:19:00 EDT Toronto FC announced today that central defender Adrian Cann has chosen to leave the team’s preseason training camp and return to Toronto. The 30-year-old was not with the squad when the team left Orlando, Florida earlier today to fly to Charleston, South Carolina where they will participate in the Carolina Challenge Cup. Cann has turned down the club’s offer of a new contract and wants to negotiate further before he returns to the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899245 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899245 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 18:29:00 EDT The Canadian Women's National Team returned to action on Tuesday at the Cyprus Cup and opened the tournament with a victory over group rival Scotland. Emily Zurrer's second half goal arrived via a header that came off of a Diana Matheson corner kick and was the difference in the opening match played at Ammochostos Stadium in Larnaka, Cyprus. With the win, Canada has opened the tournament on a winning note, which could be key given that they are in what is generally conceded to be the toughest group in the tournament. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899145 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899145 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:20:00 EDT Well, David Beckham is finally back with the Los Angeles Galaxy after his request to be loaned to Tottenham Hotspur was kiboshed and he has made a major announcement via his Facebook page. No, he didn't explain how happy he was to be back with the club that pays him millions, nor did he pledge a singular focus to winning the MLS Championship that has eluded him this far. He didn't even go out of his way to remind Fabio Capello that he is still primarily focused on more callups with the England National Team. Instead, he has announced his latest tattoo, one which highlights his deep sense of spirituality and portrays his three sons (Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz) as cherubs and Goldenballs himself as Jesus Christ. Yup, there is substance to go with David's style. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899008 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5899008 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 16:22:00 EDT As is becoming the trend with Canadian Nationals playing overseas, those who are known to be essential members of the first team, both club and country, continue to get significant minutes, while those on the fringe looking to break through are finding it harder down the critical stretch of the season to get on the pitch. While it is alarming how little to no playing time notable Canadians are getting in England and Germany, there are still a handful of players who are about to resume league play shortly that will give Stephen Hart more depth to choose from in the talent pool. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5893468 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5893468 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 22:21:00 EDT With goal scoring attacking players Keven Aleman and Michael Petrasso receiving many of the plaudits for Canada in the tournament thus far, it was appropriate that it would be a defender who would score in Canada's semi-final match against Panama to send the team to the CONCACAF U-17 Championship Final. With the Canadian defence once again a tower of strength, Sean Fleming side's held off a tenacious and impressive Panamanian side to secure a semi-final victory. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5890052 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5890052 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:48:00 EDT After several failed attempts playing at FC Copenhagen, Atiba Hutchinson and PSV Eindoven have advanced past the first knockout round of the Europa League into the round of 16. PSV defeated League 1 leaders Lille 3-1 at Phillips Arena, with a final aggregate score of 5-3. With the victory, PSV will now face Scotland’s Rangers who advanced past Portugal’s Sporting Club with a thrilling last minute goal by Maurice Edu to tie the game 2-2 and put them through on away goals in a 3-3 finish. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5887715 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5887715 Thu, 24 Feb 2011 16:12:00 EDT It's been 16 years since Canada last competed in a FIFA U-17 World Cup and the Canadian U-17 squad led by Head Coach Sean Fleming went into today's CONCACAF Under-17 Championship quarterfinal match against Trinidad & Tobago knowing that a victory would secure a spot at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Mexico commencing next June. While Fleming was quoted earlier in the tournament as saying that you never quite know how players in the U-17 age group will react to the high pressure of qualification matches, his team came through in the clutch today with a mature and assured performance. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5885500 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5885500 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 16:21:00 EDT Vancouver Whitecaps FC will begin the 2011 Major League Soccer season as a mix of old and new. While the club has existed in various forms since 1973, its entry into MLS signals a new beginning for soccer in Vancouver. With 24 days to go until their first Major League Soccer regular season match, the Caps have amassed a roster that is a strong mix of veteran players and talented youngsters. While the team has looked fairly solid overall in the preseason, Vancouver looks like it still a requires a veteran finisher or two up front before it will be able to compete with the top teams in the MLS. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5885412 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5885412 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 13:47:00 EDT In this interview, RedNation and Bryce discuss his experiences playing the Canadian U-17 National Team, winning the Canadian U-17 Player of the Year Award and his decision to join the Whitecaps Residency Program. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5883875 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5883875 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:09:00 EDT With Toronto FC announcing Tuesday that Jason Bent has been promoted to the position of Assistant Coach, TFC has made another smart move in their organizational overhaul. Bent, 33, takes on the new role after spending three years as Head Coach of Toronto FC’s Senior Academy Team. With New Head Coach and Technical Director making the Academy the centerpiece of his strategy with Toronto, the addition of the former Canadian International to the senior team coaching staff makes a lot of sense. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5882892 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5882892 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:01:00 EDT With all having gone well for Canada's entry at the 2011 CONCACAF Men's Under-17 Championship thus far, it appears that all of the work that the coaching staff and players have put in over the last year has placed the team in a good position to clinch a spot at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Mexico next June. One player who has impressed thus far is Canadian midfielder Michael Petrasso, who currently sits second in tournament scoring with three goals. Ask him about the reason for his scoring success thus far and the TFC Academy product is quick to credit his teammates. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5881773 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5881773 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 23:13:00 EDT RedNation and Rhian discuss National Team Head Coach Carolina Morace, the upcoming World Cup in Germany,  Christine Sinclair, the team’s current training camp in Italy, her experiences playing professionally in Norway and her thoughts on why Canada enjoyed a very successful year in 2010. Download this as a file http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5881489 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5881489 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 19:51:00 EDT It’s hard times for Canadians playing in Europe as only a small handful are currently getting significant minutes and contributing to their clubs’ position. Until names like Borjan, Ricketts, Bernier, Nakajima-Farran and Pozniak get back into their seasons, the performances that are standing out, let alone starting minutes, are few and far between. Players such as Simeon Jackson, Rob Friend, Jamie Peters and Adam Straith aren’t seeing the pitch and should be cause for concern as all are important pieces of Stephen Hart’s national team squad through the summer of 2011 and into 2012. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5880445 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5880445 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:34:00 EDT Without an official announcement coming out of TFC, all it took was a direct question in today’s media scrum to find out that three new signings are en route to joining the club. Javier Martina, Elbekay Bouchiba and Nick Soolsma were names dropped today as the players who impressed enough over the two weeks in Turkey to be offered a contract. With these potential additions are three players who could greatly enhance and be an integral part bringing Aron Winter’s vision of the 2011 version of TFC’s tactics and system to light. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5867645 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5867645 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 23:33:00 EDT Well, Valentines Day is upon us once again and for most people that means flowers and a night out with their significant others. But what about the mistress that is soccer for hardcore soccer fans in Canada? With the Canadian Women’s National Team threatening divorce and many people in the Canadian soccer community often relating to each other in a manner that makes the Dutch National Team seem positively harmonious by comparison, it’s important to remember all of the positive things that are going in on in the world of Canadian soccer. Thus, with a nod back to my Kindergarten days when I gave a Valentine card to all of my classmates, I present the ten people and organizations that embody my love for Canadian soccer. There are plenty of others that I admire and the list could probably be upwards of a hundred, but I’m keeping it to ten since I still need to head out and buy flowers for the other love of my life. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5863983 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5863983 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 11:40:00 EDT In this thought provoking and candid interview, Red Nation and Paul discuss the current issues surrounding Carolina Morace and the Woman's Canadian National Team, Canadian Soccer Association Governance Reform, politics in Canadian soccer, Toronto FC's hiring of Head Coach Aron Winter, the Men's Canadian National Team and Paul's assessment of some of the young players who have broken into the Men's National Team over the last 24 months. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5862881 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5862881 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 23:21:00 EDT It was a very quiet weekend of action for the majority of Canada’s Internationals playing in Europe. The majority of the players who participated in Canada's training camp in Greece and mid-week friendly against the FIFA #10 ranked nation did not see action when their clubs resumed play on the weekend. Josh Simpson was Canada's lone goalscorer as he kept up the torrid scoring pace that currently has him sitting as the fourth leading scorer in the Turkey Super League with 11 goals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5862635 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5862635 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 20:36:00 EDT Canada cruelly punished for defensive error in Greece. One mistake. That’s all that separated Canada and Greece this evening in Larissa. Despite being ranked a full 70 places below their opponents, Canada came to the AEL FC Arena ready to get a result – and they nearly did. Adam Straith... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5854105 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5854105 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:21:00 EDT RedNation's Max Bell spoke to Dwayne De Rosario, Olivier Occean, Milan Borjan and Stephen Hart following Canada's 1-0 loss to Greece in Larissa on February 9th, 2011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5853967 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5853967 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:53:00 EDT RedNation's Max Bell spoke to Atiba Hutchinson, Milan Borjan and Stephen Hart after training in Larissa, Greece on February 8th, prior to Canada vs. Greece. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5851991 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5851991 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 19:36:00 EDT Unheralded, overlooked and passed-by: Larissa and the Canadian national team have a lot in common. For every tourist that whizzes past the city on a mad rush from Thessaloniki to Athens and to the islands to the south; Canadian supporters can share a similar sensation at having watched some of its best talent sail to better-known footballing shores. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5851278 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5851278 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:40:00 EDT When the Canadian Men's National Team take to the pitch against Greece on Wednesday, Tosaint Ricketts and Milan Borjan won't be the only debuts for Canada. National Team supporters will also watch their team take to the field for the first time in the new Umbro-designed kits that were released late last month at a Kit Launch party in Toronto. The new kits with a Chevron displayed significantly across the front of the chest have prompted a lot of discussion and a wide array of reactions. Some people love them and many have been outspoken in their disdain for the kit designs. Ask Gerald Woodman, President of Umbro Canada, about the things that people have been saying and he is just happy that people are talking. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5850988 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5850988 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:44:00 EDT It was a full week of action for many of Canada’s Internationals playing in Europe, especially now that most are en route to training camp in Greece for their mid-week friendly against the FIFA #10 ranked nation. England’s Championship saw two games this week, while most Canadians who are getting regular minutes will have played Saturday and immediately left for National duties. The results overall were mixed, with only a few games and performances standing out from the rest. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5848082 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5848082 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 23:25:00 EDT As Toronto FC centre back Nana Attakora works his way through his fifth preseason with Toronto, the 21 year old Canadian finds himself playing for his sixth Head Coach in four years as a professional. It's a situation that most players would find exasperating even if they would be loathe to admit it publicly. For a rising talent like Attakora, his whirlwind four years with his home town club have been crucial as to works to develop his athletic gifts into becoming a complete professional soccer player. And whether it is just youthful optimism or a maturity that belies his years, the Canadian International clearly sees a personal silver lining in the lack of organizational continuity that plagued Toronto since it's inception. In a sense, the Heach Coaching carousel has probably condensed 10-12 years of tactical and practical experience into only four plus years. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5847178 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5847178 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 12:28:00 EDT Currently sitting second in their table for Euro 2012 qualifying, Greece will likely take full advantage of their friendly against Canada in preparation for their back-to-back matches against Malta starting on March 26. Placed behind Croatia, with a lost opportunity for points against Georgia in the qualifying opener, the Greeks could be fielding their strongest side to ensure they are on point for their game and to not fall further behind the group leaders. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5846033 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5846033 Sat, 05 Feb 2011 22:36:00 EDT With few Canadian Internationals make moves during the recent European transfer window, the majority of the high profile Canadians playing abroad will continue to focus on winning playing time with the current clubs. One Canadian International who did change clubs was 22 year old midfielder Massih Wassey. The twice capped favourite of Jamaican radio commentators recently signed with Bundesliga 2 side Fortuna Dusseldorf after playing two years for the reserve side of perennial Bundesliga contender FC Schalke. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5845398 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5845398 Sat, 05 Feb 2011 14:41:00 EDT Red Nation and Patrice discuss his club football career in Norway, Germany and Denmark, his past experiences with and current thoughts on the Canadian Men’s National Team, his thoughts on the Montreal Impact and their move to Major League Soccer in 2012 and his impression of the new National team kits recently released by the CSA and Umbro. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5842180 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5842180 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 01:33:00 EDT Canadian manager Stephen Hart has announced his 18-man squad for the upcoming friendly against Greece in Larissa on February 9th. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5841387 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5841387 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:22:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Pedro Pacheco, a 26 year old Canadian midfielder who plays for Clube Desportivo Santa Clara in the Liga de Honra in Portugal. Pacheco made his debut for Canada in 2010 in a friendly played in Venezuela and it has recently been announced that he will suit up for Canada again against Greece on February 9th, 2011. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5839142 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5839142 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 13:51:00 EDT Back in 2007 when strikers Miroslav Klose and Luca Toni were tearing up the Bundesliga, the German media dubbed the duo "Kloni" as a type of homage to how much they meant collectively to the team's championship season. Toronto FC didn't enjoy an especially successful run in 2010, but the team did deliver a large number of excellent defensive performances. And if there were four players whose performances stood above the rest, they had to be Dwayne De Rosario, Stefan Frei, Adrian Cann and Nana Attakora. While De Rosario and Frei performed their magic at opposite ends of the pitch, the success of the Canadian central defense duo of Cann and Attakora was intrinsically linked and it was often hard to view the duo as anything other than a very complimentary tandem. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5837943 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5837943 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 23:29:00 EDT Funded by the Premier League, The FA and Government (via Sport England) the Football Foundation is Britain’s largest sports charity. In 2010 they celebrated their tenth anniversary, a milestone that allowed them to reflect on the nearly £1 billion worth of grass roots projects that they have supported since they began in 2000. The Foundation’s Niall Malone explains further... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5835309 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5835309 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 21:20:00 EDT With Toronto FC having jettisoned Head Coaches Preki and Nick Dasovic over the last six months, it would be easy to assume that Jacob Peterson has been lamenting the departure of two managers who clearly favoured him as a player. After all, the American winger was the first player that Preki chose to bring to Toronto after he was hired by the club in late 2009 and Dasovic, who took over as Interim Head Coach after Preki was fired, made Peterson a consistent starter at the tail end of last season. While it's clear that Peterson has a lot of respect for both Preki and Dasovic, he is also excited about the chance to work with Aron Winter. Furthermore, he's also excited to be healthy and ready to participate in his first MLS preseason since 2009. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5835246 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5835246 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 20:55:00 EDT It was a relatively quiet weekend for Canadians playing abroad with only a few players having games of note. With some clubs still getting through the winter break, along with friendlies, preseason and Cup competitions, of the league action only a couple stood out. In preseason training, Patrice Bernier was unfortunate to suffer from a fractured fibula, but fortunate that it was not severe and reports state he should be available for the start of the second half in early March. Atiba Hutchinson’s PSV continue their good form in the Eredivisie with a 2-1 win over Willem II to stay atop the table. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5833369 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5833369 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:05:00 EDT With the announcement of Umbro coming back on board to manufacture Canada’s uniform through 2014, and reaction to the new design Canada will be using for 2011, it seemed appropriate to pop in the betamax tape and see how the new look Canada stacks up against strips of years past. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5831273 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5831273 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 21:53:00 EDT With news starting to seep out surrounding Men's Canadian National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart's call-ups for Canada's friendly against Greece on February 9th, a new striker has been added to the mix for the team's first match in 2011. Edmonton born Tosaint Ricketts, a former member of Canada's U-20 and U-23 programs, has reportedly earned the chance to win his first cap for the Men's team after a run of solid club play in Europe over the last couple of years. As possibly the fastest player in the Canadian pool, Ricketts will be looking to use his blazing pace to make an impression and to add a different dimension to the Canadian attack. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5828713 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5828713 Fri, 28 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EDT Three Canadians in Germany’s second division are not only fighting for promotion, but also fighting for minutes as the first half of the season has seen them struggle to hold down a starting role at their respective clubs. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5824742 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5824742 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:48:00 EDT The Aron Winter era officially kicked off today at BMO Field as the players had their physicals, met with TFC's new leadership regime and the management staff and players alike met with media for the first time since the close of the 2010 campaign. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5824606 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5824606 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 23:28:00 EDT When Toronto FC selected Irish forward Steven Beattie in the 2011 Major League Supplemental Draft last week, some observers speculated that TFC had acquired the biggest steal of the MLS Draft. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5820060 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5820060 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:06:00 EDT They say sport imitates life, and while that can often be a very superficial expression, in some rare instances it couldn't be further from the truth. For Milan Borjan, born in Knin, Croatia but of Serbian descent, the arduous road of a professional footballer, although similar, ultimately would pale in comparison to the trials his family would have to endure to bring them to where they are today, and finally to where he likely never expected his football career to take him - Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5817678 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5817678 Sun, 23 Jan 2011 21:02:00 EDT We’re almost back in full swing as save for a couple internationals, and the summer season, everyone is back at it competing in Europe. The fight for promotion in the 2. Bundesliga continues as the three notable Canadians, Rob Friend, Marcel De Jong and Adam Straith’s clubs all got points to stay in the hunt. Still waiting to come out of the winter break, both Chris Pozniak and Tosiant Ricketts continue to score for their clubs in friendlies. Ricketts scored twice in making a statement to get minutes in the second half of the season since coming over from MyPa in Finland. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5817636 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5817636 Sun, 23 Jan 2011 20:31:00 EDT Spark and Tim hash out the last month in TFC-land which of course centres around the appointment of Aron Winter and disappearance of Dwayne De Rosario. But most importantly is the lack of substance when it comes to roster depth - what needs to be addressed the most? The lads get it all out before the Reds leave for Turkey and will reconvene when they are back before First Kick. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5817203 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5817203 Sun, 23 Jan 2011 15:39:00 EDT In the first feature in her From the Bleachers series, Red Nation's women's soccer reporter Ingrid Green kicks off 2011 with a look back at the amazing and successful 2010 that was in women's Canadian soccer and the dominating performances delivered by Carolina Morace's Senior National Team. The Canadian Women look to have momentum in their favour with 2011 being a World Cup year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5811828 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5811828 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:37:00 EDT With non-stop talk of all things ‘Total’ for the last two weeks, it clearly became time to revisit one of the best football books out there. Aron Winter’s appointment as head coach of Toronto FC opened the floodgate of assumptions and speculation as to what supporters are going to see at BMO Field in 2011 and beyond. If one wants to get a handle on what all this 4-3-3, Total Football, and attractive attacking jargon that is being thrown around means exactly, Winner’s Brilliant Orange is without a doubt the source to consult. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5809224 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5809224 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 22:21:00 EDT Major League Soccer held its Supplemental Draft today with clubs having an opportunity to pick up NCAA players that weren’t selected in the MLS SuperDraft last Thursday in Baltimore. With the majority of the big names taken last week, the modus operandi of both the Vancouver Whitecaps and Toronto FC going into this draft was likely to acquire some hidden gems and find players that could add depth or fill a particular role on their clubs. With the return of the Reserve League this year, the Supplemental Draft also offered the opportunity for teams to acquire players with long term potential who might not contribute in MLS matches for a couple of years. Neither the Caps or TFC will likely know if they have drafted the next Chris Wondolowski – who was selected 41st overall in the 2005 Supplemental Draft – for a couple of years, but some intriguing options were available nonetheless. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5806117 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5806117 Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:13:00 EDT Amidst the changes that have begun to arise for Toronto FC, this year’s MLS SuperDraft provided the Reds a chance to show the league – and themselves – what Aron Winter’s squad will be all about. No one better exemplifies this shift in mentality than 2nd round draft pick, Demitrius Omphroy. The California Golden Bears fullback, standing at 5’10”, will no doubt be raring to get the ball rolling, as the 2011 Season Kick-Off draws ever closer. Demitrius, who’s adventure in professional football is about to begin, provides Winter’s TFC with a new perspective. Omphroy, who boasts great ball-control, supplemented by a bit of cheek and a clever wag of the foot, may prove to be a key element of Toronto’s “Total Football” approach. His laid back attitude and infectious eagerness has already made him a fan favourite in Toronto. The love, it seems, goes both ways, as Omphroy’s excitement is seemingly uncontainable. Red Nation Online had a chance to speak to Demitrius, who’s very kindly answered a few questions for us. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5804497 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5804497 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 23:03:00 EDT Talk to anyone that has spoken at any length with Real Salt Lake midfielder Will Johnson and they will likely tell you that the 23-year old Canadian National Team member is a very intelligent player both on and off the pitch. With the news last week that Johnson has extended his contract with the 2009 MLS Cup Champions he has likely only reinforced that perception among Major League Soccer observers and those in the Canadian soccer community. While the Toronto born midfielder certainly has the ability to make a move to Europe, such as the one former Houston Dynamo midfielder Stuart Holden made last year when joined the Bolton Wanderers, Johnson’s decision to stick with Salt Lake and the MLS for several more years makes sense on a number of levels. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5802161 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5802161 Sun, 16 Jan 2011 22:42:00 EDT Europe is slowly getting out of their winter break as more leagues are resuming play into the second half of the season. Over the next few weeks, they will all be back in full swing with only Denmark still off for a substantial amount of time when they return in early March. It was a good week of results for Canadians who for the most part were competing in Cup competitions and friendlies. One Canadian who is preparing for 2011 season in Norway, Chris Pozniak, scored 2 goals for his club Haugesund in a 5-0 victory over Lov-Ham and continues a run of good form and consistent minutes for the Tippeligaen side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5801752 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5801752 Sun, 16 Jan 2011 17:48:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Chris discuss playing in the Norwegian top flight with his current side FK Haugesund, his past experiences playing with Toronto FC, the pros and cons of being able to play multiple positions at the professional level, his thoughts on the Vancouver Whitecaps move to Major League Soccer and playing for the Men’s Canadian National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5800004 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5800004 Sun, 16 Jan 2011 00:08:00 EDT Bob Lenarduzzi has tried to dispel any idea that Vancouver’s number one pick in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft was a shock pick. While many knew that a highly touted 17-year old prospect in Omar Salgado would be desirable to many clubs, few thought he would be taken ahead of the “sure things” that were coming out of the Akron program, most notably Perry Kitchen and Darlington Nagbe. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5794542 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5794542 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 20:56:00 EDT One of the main mantras of successful managers in world soccer is the often quoted policy of buying low and selling high with respect to player transfers. As a player who made something of a breakthrough in 2010, the trade of Chad Barrett today for future considerations might on the surface appear to be a case of getting too little in return for a promising player who is still only 25 years old. However, in salary cap league such as the MLS, cap space is actually more valuable than any monies generated selling a player abroad, at least in terms of a club's performance on the pitch. And while it isn't outside of the realm of possibility that Barrett's star will continue to rise as he looks to fill the gaping hole in the Los Angeles Galaxy roster left by the departure of striker Edson Buddle to Germany, the decision to trade the American forward makes sense on a number of different levels, including the Buy Low-Sell High concept. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5794365 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5794365 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 18:39:00 EDT With the 2010 draft coming out of the shadow of one of the best in memory from 2009, how will the 2011 stack up? 2009 has seen roughly eight of the top ten picks make a substantial impact in the league, while 2010 was not far behind. What can be extracted from this is that there is in fact a consistent, although small, base of talent coming out of the NCAA that can walk right onto an MLS side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5791590 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5791590 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 15:58:00 EDT Ever since Toronto FC made Julian de Guzman their first Designated Player back in September 2009, the player that many had previously called the best Canadian soccer player in the world has lacked consistency on the pitch for his home town side. For one and half years many have speculated as to the reasons why the former La Liga player has not been able to dominate the game when playing in a so called lesser league in comparison to some of the top European leagues in which De Guzman excelled and made his name. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5787376 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5787376 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 23:14:00 EDT Julian Uccello’s football career thus far has been guided by the virtue of patience and good things come to those wait. While many North American players go over to Europe specifically with the top divisions and clubs in mind, often they can get lost in the shuffle and waste away on the bench or reserves. Uccello has been steadfast through his almost ten years in Italy that wherever he is, he must be playing. This has resulted in a wealth of experience and goals scored as he has continued to climb the ladder from the lower divisions up to Serie B when he signed with FC Crotone this past summer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784664 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784664 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 22:48:00 EDT With the announcement of Aron Winter as Toronto FC’s choice to be the next head coach to try and turn around the misfortunes of the four-year-old Major League Soccer Franchise, reactions from TFC supporters and those in the media have ranged from jubilation to tempered optimism to outright skepticism. Those who have already anointed the 43 year old Dutch legend as the greatest thing to happen to soccer in Toronto are quick to point out the plethora of top coaches that have come out of the Netherlands in general and the world famous Ajax club specifically. Skeptics have been quick to point out the failure that was Ruud Gullit’s tenure at the helm of the Los Angeles Galaxy, as well as the fact that Winter has no experience as a Head Coach at a top flight club. There is validity in both viewpoints and this has some of TFC’s suffering supporters wondering if the club has genuinely turned a page for the better. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784662 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784662 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 22:48:00 EDT There is still a week or two until most Canadians have to return from their winter break, but the handful in the UK continued through piles of snow with at least three matches through the holidays. As it is now January, the transfer window is open again and names such as Paul Stalteri and Mike Klukowski have been bandied about for a move away from their current clubs. Stalteri has been linked with 2. Bundesliga bottom dweller Arminia Bielefeld while Klukowski’s potential move to Belgian side Lierse seems to have been shut down by a 750,000 Euro price tag. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784661 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784661 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 22:47:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Curtis discuss the 2011 MLS Combine, his college soccer career at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and playing for the U-23 Canadian National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784123 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5784123 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 17:39:00 EDT With high risk comes high reward and going into the 2011 season it would appear Tom Anselmi has put all his chips on Aron Winter. After what can be described as nothing less than a disastrous four years of mismanagement, on the surface MLSE looks to have made very shrewd and progressive appointments in Winter, Paul Mariner and Bob de Klerk. However, when one looks deeper they can still see many of the same glaring issues that have plagued this team since day one and could cost the team and it’s supporters any kind of tangible success in the immediate or near future. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5781541 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5781541 Sat, 08 Jan 2011 14:54:00 EDT With reports out of the Netherlands suggesting that Canadian forward Andrew Ornoch will be signing with Toronto FC for the upcoming season, it looks like the new TFC regime is moving quickly in adding new players to the roster to replace the large number of players that were jettisoned by Earl Cochrane following the conclusion of the team’s underwhelming 2010 campaign. In terms of a prudent player acquisition, the addition of Ornoch makes perfect and total sense for a number of reasons. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5779471 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5779471 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 18:34:00 EDT When Jürgen Klinsmann and SoccerSolutions were announced last November as the consultants who would lead Toronto FC in their search for a leadership team to replace the recently departed Mo Johnston and Preki, many observers looked upon the hiring of the German legend as little more than a PR move designed to entice supporters to renew their season's tickets. Just over two months later those fears appear to have been unfounded as TFC announced an impressive new leadership team today at the Air Canada Centre. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5776600 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5776600 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:47:00 EDT Aron Winter’s imminent appointment as head coach of Toronto FC throws the doors of change wide open for The Reds. Winter, a former Netherlands international, who recorded 84 caps to his name, brings with him a wealth of know-how and experience. His managerial career with Ajax’s academy - one of the world’s most famous academy systems – brought about a wave of success for Dutch football, both domestically in Ajax as well as internationally for Holland. Now Toronto FC fans are about to experience a slice of oranje for themselves. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5769519 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5769519 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 18:36:00 EDT A year has gone by without any significant competitions for the Canadian Men’s National Team, however, with six friendlies on the 2010 calendar, Canada has seen plenty of action to assess what they will need to do moving forward into a critical 2011 and beyond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5762867 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5762867 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 13:43:00 EDT In its first full year of operation, RedNation Online covered more Canadian matches on-site than any other media outlet. National team reporter Max Bell walks us through the five most pivotal moments from Canada’s transitional 2010 campaign, with a little help from RedNation’s Gavin Day and Canada’s Issey Nakajima-Farran. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5749740 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5749740 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 17:47:00 EDT With the winter break all but in effect for most of Europe, it was a relatively quiet weekend for Canadians competing on the Continent. Aside from the UK, where only more games end up being played through December, Scandinavia, Germany, Holland, Romania, Serbia and Turkey (to name a few with Canadian Internationals) have all now stopped play and it will be quiet until the end of January and through February. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5740260 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5740260 Sun, 19 Dec 2010 22:21:00 EDT Atiba Hutchinson added another piece of silverware to his growing collection for 2010 by edging out Dwayne De Rosario to win the CSA Male Player of the Year award. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5736061 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5736061 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 13:50:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Mason discuss his experiences playing in Finland, his time with the Vancouver Whitecaps, playing the centre-back position and his goals for the future. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5734121 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5734121 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 16:25:00 EDT Even with significantly more action this week in Stage 2, both Toronto FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps all together passed up on the MLS Re-Entry Draft, signaling that both clubs will be likely looking to supplement their roster gaps through signings over the next few months that will be brought in for training camps. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5732579 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5732579 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 22:38:00 EDT With the news today that Ethan Gage has been named Canadian U-20 Player of the Year for the 2010 soccer season, the Vancouver Whitecaps Residency Program continues an impressive streak of accolades by current and former members of the program. Gage's award follows in the footsteps of former Residency player Russell Teibert, who won the U-17 Player of the Year Award in 2008 and 2009, and current Residency player Bryce Alderson, who was announced as the 2010 U-17 Player of the Year on Monday. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5730128 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5730128 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 16:03:00 EDT It had been known for some time that a USL Premier Development League club would be coming to Winnipeg, and today the details of the team were released. WSA (World Soccer Academy) Winnipeg, their crest and partnership with Mondetta were unveiled and the positive growth of the sport in Canada continues as there is now another club to connect the country from coast to coast. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5728333 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5728333 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 20:36:00 EDT RedNation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Beau Dure, the author of Long-Range Goals: The Success Story of Major League Soccer. As a sports reporter for USA TODAY, ESPN.com and The Huffington Post, Dure has covered Major League Soccer in the national press since 1999. He is also the current president of the North American Soccer Reporters and also writes regularly on soccer and a number of other sports in his blog at SportsMyriad.com. In this interview, Beau and Red Nation discuss his book Long-Range Goals - The Success Story of Major League Soccer, the current state of Major League Soccer, MLS Commissioner Don Garber, Toronto FC, MLS Expansion and the return of the New York Cosmos. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5726635 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5726635 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 01:01:00 EDT Well-timed on the heels of Grant Wahl’s best selling book The Beckham Experiment, Beau Dure’s Long-Range Goals – The Success Story of Major Soccer is the perfect compliment to Wahl’s window into David Beckham’s foray into the world of Major League Soccer over the course of the last several years. Unlike that book which focussed on a particular story and time within the history of Major League Soccer, Long-Range Goals provides a comprehensive overview of MLS from its point of conception to its current state and firmly places it within the larger history of soccer in North America. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5726320 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5726320 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 21:51:00 EDT Winter is now officially upon us here in Canada and while there is no league play happening in this country, overseas Canucks enjoyed a good weekend in similar weather conditions. All eyes should be on Turkey where both Josh Simpson and Mike Klukowski were key to their club’s results. Simpson continues to be one of the top goalscorers in the league, despite not being a striker. His opening goal was enough to secure Manisaspor away points as they drew 1-1 with Bucaspor. Mike Klukowski’s Ankaragucu enjoyed arguably their biggest win of the season, as he put in the cross for the opening goal as his club ousted perennial favourites Fenerbahce 2-1. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5726319 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5726319 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 21:51:00 EDT Stage 1 of the 2010 MLS re-entry draft is over and if there was any confusion as to how this process would play out, at least for now, it is 50% cleared up. With a litany of MLS veterans, most notably Frankie Hejduk, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Pat Onstad, and Jimmy Conrad, all carrying significant salaries, all but two clubs opted to pass until next week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5718089 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5718089 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 21:35:00 EDT With the announcement on Monday that the three finalists for the FIFA Ballon d'Or award are the Barcelona trio of Xavi, Messi and Iniesta, the news wasn't only another feather in the cap for the Catalan club that has dominated club football over the last few years, it was yet another reminder that the sport of soccer really is the great equalizer, at least in terms of the game on the pitch. Given all of the stories of corruption that surrounded the furor over the selection process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, it would certainly be a stretch to say that soccer is the most democratic major sport in the world. That said, one of the most attractive aspects of the beautiful game is probably its intrinsic inclusiveness. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5717698 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5717698 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 17:30:00 EDT As Major League Soccer continues to prepare for its latest round of “draft-um, trade-um” shakeups, which have become almost a trademark of the offseason, fans across the league will be looking at the new “Re-Entry Draft” with a raised eyebrow. This unprecedented event, which will be held on December 8th, is a bit tricky and is something that MLS clubs will need to adjust to. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5711824 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5711824 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 21:25:00 EDT With Toronto FC using the last two weeks to cast off upwards of ten players, management have thus far done an excellent job in removing the underperformers from the roster and have opened up the necessary salary cap space needed towards rebuilding the team for 2011. Apart from one or two players, you would be hard pressed to find anyone who would argue with the moves the club has made thus far. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5711819 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5711819 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 21:25:00 EDT After a couple of weekends of mixed results and performances, this week ended up being much more positive for Canucks playing in Europe. Of note, this weekend saw the return of defender Kevin McKenna from a knee injury to the bench of FC Koln. The Rhine-based club is languishing near the bottom of the table and their 3-2 loss to Bayer Leverkuen Sunday puts them even further out of reach from Shalke 04 who sit four points out of relegation. The two clubs of note that secured key wins were both Simeon Jackson’s Norwich City and Marcel De Jong’s FC Augsburg. Jackson subbed in late in Norwich’s 2-1 win over Derby and the Canaries are now in the midst of the top end of the Championship table, now only three points behind third-placed Swansea. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5711602 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5711602 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 17:42:00 EDT By now you have likely read any number of articles and columns bemoaning the fact that Russia and Qatar have been awarded the 2018 and 2022 World Cup tournaments. Are these simply instances of hyper-sour grapes in the age of the Internet and Social Media? While many of the opinions out there are indeed framed by the disappointment of those who wanted the world’s premier sporting event to be held in England and the United States, many have also pointed out many legitimate concerns surrounding the results of the selection process and about the abilities of the winning nations to effectively manage the logistics surrounding hosting football’s premier showcase event. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5707838 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5707838 Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:54:00 EDT With news today that Toronto FC have not picked up the options on Fuad Ibrahim, Amadou Sanyang and Nick Garcia, the tally of 2010 players that won’t be back at BMO field next year could now go to ten. As of now the senior roster stands at seventeen bodies and although preseason is still over two months away, one can’t help but feel a bit of déjà vu. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5707729 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5707729 Fri, 03 Dec 2010 14:33:00 EDT Toronto sports fans were awoken this fine, December morning to the scent of a freshly brewed coffee, perhaps some eggs and bacon, and the news that Rogers Communications could be the next owner of their beloved soccer team. For the Toronto FC fan, Rogers could provide a new ownership group that will bring more money for the squad and club. They have said they are willing to take losses, something currently the Teacher’s Pension plan simply can’t afford. That being said, what can Toronto FC fans expect, should the Rogers takeover come to fruition? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5704369 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5704369 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 23:04:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer Association have released their nominees for the 2010 players of the year and while it might seem like once again Christine Sinclair is the clear potential winner for the women, the men have a bit more competition. With eight players named, three jump out as having had both successful domestic and international seasons this year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5702384 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5702384 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:11:00 EDT With rumours breaking out over the weekend that Tottenham Hotspur striker Robbie Keane could be headed for Major League Soccer and would join the Vancouver Whitecaps, ‘Caps chief executive officer Paul Barber was quick to go on the record today and state that the speculation was premature. His comments followed previous ones by Whitecaps president Bob Lenarduzzi who said that his team was not yet ready to go the high cost designated player route. While Barber played down the rumours linking the Whitecaps to Keane, he did not rule out the possibility of the team signing the Irish National Team striker at some point. Reading between the lines it is hard not to infer that some discussions have taken place and that if a deal is ultimately to come into fruition, it will be because both sides are able to agree on a price that is amenable to all parties involved. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5700074 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5700074 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 22:57:00 EDT Paul Peschisolido is just settling into life as a manger at Burton Albion, but the ex-Canada striker is keeping his eye on opportunities back home. The League Two boss tells RedNation that he is unwilling to rule himself out of contention to manage Canada in the future. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5700003 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5700003 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 21:46:00 EDT Overall, it was not a great weekend for Canadians competing abroad in Europe. Of those listed below, only a few got the call for the start and go the full 90 minutes. Players who started the season, such as Rob Friend, Adam Straith, Simeon Jackson and Jamie Peters, in strong competition for the starting role, are now finding it hard to get minutes. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5698024 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5698024 Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:10:00 EDT With the announcement yesterday that the San Jose Earthquakes won't be bringing back Geovanni, their first ever Designated Player, in 2011, another interesting player that Toronto FC might want to look into acquiring is now available. Able to play as a winger, striker or an attacking midfielder, the 30 year old Brazilian is a world class player that could help the Reds at multiple positions and who could be the genuine central midfield playmaker that the team has lacked since Preki jettisoned Amado Guevara. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5694309 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5694309 Fri, 26 Nov 2010 17:37:00 EDT Canada has announced its roster for the upcoming Torneio Internacional Cidade de São Paulo. Canada will play four matches from 9-19 December in São Paulo, Brazil. The four-match set will close out Canada's 2010 season and will provide an opportunity to some tactical experimentation in advance of the 2011 World Cup in Germany, according to national team head coach Carolina Morace. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5694155 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5694155 Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:14:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Milan discuss his decision to play for Canada at the International level, his current campaign with Rad Beograd of the Serbian SuperLiga, his experiences playing soccer in South America with Boca Juniors and River Plate, his strengths as a player and his future goals as a young goalkeeper. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5693050 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5693050 Thu, 25 Nov 2010 23:36:00 EDT With the news yesterday that TFC have released five players from their roster while also divesting themselves of the $182,000 salary of striker O’Brian White via the Expansion Draft, Reds supporters have plenty of reasons to (once again) feel positive about their team’s chances to actually be successful on the pitch in 2011. While many have lamented the fact that Toronto is essentially rebuilding once again as they head into their fifth year of existence, I would argue that TFC is actually in more of a reloading mold and is in a good position to follow the quick turnaround model that the New York Red Bulls employed in 2010. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5692867 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5692867 Thu, 25 Nov 2010 21:01:00 EDT The 2010 MLS Expansion draft is all wrapped up and almost immediately the wheeling and dealing had already begun. Portland’s first overall choice Dax McCarty was instantly shipped to DC United for Rodney Wallace and a draft pick. Vancouver made a strong statement in their first two picks with midfielders Sanna Nyassi and Atiba Harris. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5690945 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5690945 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 21:15:00 EDT With the completion of another professional football campaign in Finland, Canadian striker Tosaint Ricketts thought that he was going to be able to return home and enjoy some time off after a very successful campaign with Finnish side MyPa. But when opportunity knocked for the up and coming 23 year old Edmonton native, it turned out that he was going to end up back on the pitch much sooner than expected. And following the announcement that he had signed a three and a half year contract with storied Romanian side, FC Politehnica Timisoara, Ricketts found himself right back on the training ground with his new teammates. According to Canadian U-23 International, the new deal was an immediately appealing one that came together quickly. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5689066 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5689066 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:25:00 EDT It is the day before the 2010 expansion draft, which means another almost-sacred-but-not-quite-sacred tradition amongst the MLS faithful; fantasy expansion draft picks. The Vancouver Whitecaps and the Portland Timbers enter Major League Soccer in 2011 with not only a plethora of options available to them, but several means in which to acquire them. These two fledgling clubs have a round each of expansion drafting, followed by a few re-entry and waiver drafts here and there, finally culminating with the MLS SuperDraft, meaning that - for Canadian soccer fans - Vancouver could make some interesting moves. Assuming Vancouver doesn’t trade away their SuperDraft picks, the following selection below offers some viable options from each MLS side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5688902 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5688902 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 20:36:00 EDT For the first time since 2004, when Real Salt Lake and Chivas USA came into the fold, two teams will be participating in the MLS expansion draft. 2011 will see the Vancouver Whitecaps and Portland Timbers cross over from USSF Division 2 into MLS, and Monday morning the unprotected players list of the sixteen current teams from which they pick from will be released. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5685194 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5685194 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 01:56:00 EDT The Colorado Rapids had their first crack at it in 1997, and thirteen years later, they become one of the last original MLS franchises to finally win the MLS Cup. Going into the game, it was a win win with respect to an original MLS team taking home the cup for the first time, but many would have put their money on FC Dallas. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5685192 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5685192 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 01:54:00 EDT It has been one of the quieter weekends for Canadians overseas so far this season. With mid-week friendlies for many of the leagues across the continent, but none featuring Canada, it was disappointing to see many players either not starting or featuring at all in the club’s side. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5685189 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5685189 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 01:52:00 EDT A pattern is emerging and here’s hoping Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps and eventually Montreal are taking note as they (re)build their MLS franchises. With the announcement today that David Ferreira was voted the 2010 MLS MVP, the 5’5 attacking midfielder has become the fourth South American player to win the honour over the last five years. Add to that tally, over the last ten seasons, seven of them have had winners from either South or Central America. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5681510 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5681510 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 21:53:00 EDT With the 2010 MLS Cup only two days away, many of the leading soccer media in North America descended upon BMO Field to watch the two finalists practice and to speak with the coaches and players in advance of the finale on Sunday. Those that attended FC Dallas's morning practice likely got their first chance to watch Ottawa-born rookie centre back on the pitch. At 22 years old and looking somewhat reminiscent of a young Sol Campbell in terms of his build and stature, Edward displayed the pace, strength and athleticism that has the Dallas Front Office picturing him as an important part of their future back line. Selected by FC Dallas in the 2010 Major League Soccer (MLS) supplemental draft, Edward went into this season knowing that the team viewed him as something of a project and that he was unlikely to play many minutes in his rookie season. At the same time, he believes that he has benefited greatly as a player from working, playing and training at the professional level on a day in, day out basis. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5681190 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5681190 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:49:00 EDT Is now the time that FC Dallas will finally be predicted to win? Embarrassingly enough the Conference Finals were 0-2 at RedNation. However, as good as Dallas were in the regular season, it was difficult to predict a win against Real Salt Lake, who had outscored their opposition 31-7 at Rio Tinto Stadium, and the LA Galaxy, who dispatched them twice during the regular season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5679274 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5679274 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 20:59:00 EDT It has not been a very well kept secret that Jay DeMerit was on his way to the Vancouver Whitecaps, likely as their first official signing. What was not yet clear was the terms of his contract and whether Vancouver would be bringing him in as their first Designated Player. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5678979 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5678979 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 17:27:00 EDT When FC Dallas obliterated the Los Angeles Galaxy in the MLS Western Conference Finals this past Sunday, they didn’t just prevent two of the league’s marquee stars in Landon Donovan and David Beckham from once again realizing their championship ambitions, they also ensured that for the second consecutive year the MLS Cup will be won by a club without a Designated Player (DP). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5674748 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5674748 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Terry discuss the Vancouver Whitecaps, Major League Soccer, the Canadian National Team and his football career playing in England. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5670410 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5670410 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 23:06:00 EDT Managing the Canadian Men’s National Team has been called one of the hardest jobs in world football. With Canadian players often opting to compete with other countries, injuries to key performers and both Major League Soccer and European clubs not always making it easy to get players released for international matches and training camps, Canada rarely has a chance to field what would be considered by most to be the country’s true top XI. Add to that the challenges inherent in competing in the CONCACAF region, the lack of financial resources at the disposal of the Canadian Soccer Association and the fact that Canada’s World Cup qualifying path only offers a meagre 3.5 spots in comparison to the 4.5 and 5 that Asian and African teams have and it has been easy to brand an appearance by Canada at the 2014 World Cup as something of a tall order indeed. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5670405 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5670405 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 23:05:00 EDT It was a busy week of football for Canadians overseas, as many internationals had both league and cup games throughout the week. Both England and Turkey had two games this week, with the Championship playing a league fixture and Turkey participating in Cup play. It continues to be an up and down season for Josh Simpson’s Manisaspor, however, Simpson again bags a goal for his side this weekend, netting a penalty kick and securing the victory over Galatasary. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5670404 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5670404 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 23:04:00 EDT After the first leg of the MLS Conference Semi Finals, everything looked to be on course for the top seeds to be on their way through to the next round. New York won away, Real Salt Lake were down by one goal but unbeatable at Rio Tinto Stadium, and Columbus, although also down, were home to a team they beat 3-1 in the regular season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5664194 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5664194 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:29:00 EDT All of the questions with regards to Jürgen Klinsmann’s involvement with Toronto FC were answered Thursday afternoon as the former striker, Bayern Munich and German National Team head coach addressed the Toronto media for the first time. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5663559 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5663559 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:01:00 EDT The 2011 MLS Conference Semi-Finals are over, and once again we are on track to question the footballing bizzarro world in which Don Garber and MLS exist. Still stuck with the need to have two Conferences, an East and West, then throw out the window a proper seeding of teams ranking 1-8, another playoffs goes by where there is little reward for finishing at the top in either division and ensuring the best teams in the regular season meet each other in the post season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5655879 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5655879 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 20:59:00 EDT It was a relatively quiet week for Canadians overseas. There were few standout performances and even fewer positive results. In England, Simeon Jackson, Jamie Peters and David Edgar all remain in the top half of the table as Jackson and Edgar drew as their clubs Norwich City and Burnley squared off in a 2-2 draw. Jamie Peters Ipswich side downed Sheffield United to move towards the top of the Championship table. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5653726 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5653726 Sun, 07 Nov 2010 22:46:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Jason discuss the TFC Academy, recent Academy graduates Nicholas Lindsay and Doneil Henry, the importance of the return the MLS Reserve League, the hiring of German legend Jurgen Klinsmann as a consultant to Toronto FC and Jason's career as a player with the Colorado Rapids, Plymouth Argyle and the Men's Canadian National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5649405 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5649405 Sat, 06 Nov 2010 01:26:00 EDT With no real upsets in the first legs of the MLS 2010 Conference Semi Finals, the losers are left with an uphill battle in order to advance into the Conference Finals. Both Real Salt Lake and Columbus will have heaps of pressure to live up to their lofty standings in the table, as RSL lost 2-1 to FC Dallas and Columbus 1-0 in Colorado. However, home field advantage is on their side and Real Salt Lake have yet to lose at Rio Tinto Stadium all season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5643823 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5643823 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:12:00 EDT Well perhaps, as the lads have given some time to let the dust settle, but seeing as it's TFC and MLSE, the dust never really settles. So we go at it - it's the 2010 season in review that ends up being just as much 'the month in review' as well as what Herr Klinsmann will possibly bring to the table. What would be a discussion about TFC without some serious head-shaking about owners, the path this season took under Preki, his eventual sacking and the players that made a forgettable year at least something to look forward to moving forward. Tim is in full bashing mode, Stephe has his talking points written out on seven pages, and Spark watches it all unfold. It's the last pod of 2010 and it won't be long until 2011 so hang tight we'll return in March! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5643786 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5643786 Wed, 03 Nov 2010 23:22:00 EDT Jürgen Klinsmann. Who could have seen it coming? Certainly not the average Toronto FC supporter, that’s for sure. Those in the know have been hinting and alluding to the imminent arrival of highly reputable names, to help steer the sinking Toronto FC ship into calmer waters. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5635716 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5635716 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:00:00 EDT It was a mixed bag of performances and results for Canadians playing in Europe over the past week and weekend. Although the majority of players are getting minutes, no one stood out from the pack in having an outstanding performance. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5635623 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5635623 Sun, 31 Oct 2010 22:46:00 EDT With Toronto FC now starting the process of rebuilding their team and management structure towards on field success in 2011, it is clear that not only do they need to improve the makeup of the player squad and find the right managerial leadership, but that the club also needs to do a much better job of leveraging their overall financial resources. With Major League Soccer employing a team salary cap of $2.6 million, the most successful MLS teams have often been the ones that have both found a way to adequately compensate key players and leverage a roster with some relatively low paid bargains performing important roles or adding depth to the team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5628940 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5628940 Thu, 28 Oct 2010 22:42:00 EDT After making strides in 2009, Toronto FC have fallen back to almost the exact same form as at the end of 2008. It is clear that after their 5-0 capitulation last October the Reds were far from “a head coach and a few players” from being contenders. Or perhaps they were, but it all depended on which head coach and the players he decided to bring in. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5626377 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5626377 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 23:06:00 EDT The closing match of every season says a lot about the team’s progress in that year. In Toronto FC’s case, it’s usually been a showing of the lack of progress the Reds, under Mo Johnston, have achieved. Looking back, the final home game has summarized each of Toronto FC’s seasons in its own, unique way. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5626370 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5626370 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 23:03:00 EDT Martin Nash today announced his retirement from competitive soccer as a player, while also announcing he has accepted an offer to take on a new role with Vancouver Whitecaps FC as a member of the coaching staff. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5626366 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5626366 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 23:02:00 EDT If there was one area that represented a true Achilles heel for Toronto FC in 2010 it would have to be the fullback position. While TFC were exceptionally strong between the sticks and possessed three strong centre backs in Adrian Cann, Nana Attakora and Ty Harden, only Dan Gargan really delivered consistently satisfactory performances as a fullback. Nick Garcia provided experience and held his own in quite a few games, but generally his lack of pace and athleticism was something that opposing offences were able to exploit over and over again. Maxim Usanov and Raivis Hscanovics were consistently ineffectual to say the least. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5623660 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5623660 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 22:22:00 EDT Overall it was a positive week for Canadians playing abroad with mixed results for clubs, but good individual performances to make note of. The players who look to be the ones Canada will be relying on Internationally in particular did well over the week. Atiba Hutchinson continues to be in one of the most promising situations, as his PSV side completely dismantled Feyenoord 10-0. A side that had quality depth, both foreign and domestic, it is a positive sign that Hutchinson has been able to becomes a versatile asset that continues to get the start in a handful of positions. Simeon Jackson keeps his form and makes his case to be the starting choice as he bagged the winner Saturday in a 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough. Finally, Josh Simpson will certainly be adding fuel to transfer speculation that goes back to last year’s transfer window, as he continues his fine scoring touch also getting winner in Manisaspor’s 2-1 victory over Kasimpasa in the Turkish Super League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5618663 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5618663 Sun, 24 Oct 2010 22:15:00 EDT In a season where there were more disappointments than highlights, it was encouraging to see, for the first time since 2007, Toronto FC finish the season on a positive note. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5618540 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5618540 Sun, 24 Oct 2010 20:38:00 EDT TFC arrived at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. looking to end their season on a high note and to gain some revenge on the team that defeated them at home last month and drove a spike into their playoff hopes. Coming off a CONCACAF Champions League victory over Arabe Unido on Tuesday night, the Reds were buoyed by the return of Team Captain Dwayne De Rosario to the lineup following a one game suspension. With Head Coach Nick Dasovic choosing to rest Stefan Frei and keeper Jon Conway suspended for this match, Milos Kocic got his first league start for Toronto FC against his former team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5616910 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5616910 Sat, 23 Oct 2010 23:05:00 EDT It’s their last chance at redemption as Toronto FC look to finish the 2010 season with a win as they head down to Washington to take on DC United Saturday night. For the third year in a row, TFC will finish their year away from BMO Field against the last place team. However, if the last two years are any indication, this is not a good thing. Two inspiring home finales, and arguably one again Tuesday night, leads one to believe that with momentum heading into the last game means nothing and Toronto’s road form is the be all and end all. The home fixture stands out like a sore thumb for Toronto as it was far and above their most abject performance of 2010 and since have been able to consistently score, which against a weak DC defence could result in finishing the season with points in hand. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5612485 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5612485 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 23:39:00 EDT The last home game for Toronto FC and quite possibly the last win of the 2010 campaign. The Reds put in a solid ninety minutes against Panamanian and CONCACAF Champion’s League Group A rivals, Arabe Unido to secure their last three points of the tournament. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5609631 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5609631 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 23:22:00 EDT It’s an incredible thing when a young footballer is finally given a chance to prove his worth, to pull on his cleats and finally reap the benefits of constant training and practice throughout childhood. As a supporter, it’s always a rewarding experience seeing an academy player don the club shirt for the first time. This is especially true when the player in question is a local youth, one who grew up in the very city that he now plays in; this is even more evident when one sees the hunger that these young talents show for their city. Toronto FC’s younger crop definitely showed their heart against Arabe Unido, and for the approximately ten thousand supporters who showed up, the tandem of Nicolas Lindsay, Ashton Morgan and Doneil Henry remained the sole positive in what has been a dreary few weeks for Toronto. That Toronto FC has now turned to the future and has given these academy players their chance to shine says a lot about the organization, in a good way. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5609621 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5609621 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 23:20:00 EDT With Toronto FC already eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions League, this match against Panamanian side Arabe Unido started off with an atmosphere surrounding it similar to an exhibition match. TFC had already announced prior to kickoff that two players from the TFC Academy - Oscar Cordon and Ashtone Morgan - had been added to the preliminary 23-man squad for the match. With Morgan joining Academy graduates Nicholas Lindsay and Doniel Henry in the starting lineup, this one had a feel similar to a late September Blue Jays match complete with prospects called up from the minor leagues. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5607310 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5607310 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 23:35:00 EDT Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber was in Toronto on Tuesday morning and met with the Toronto media to discuss the upcoming MLS Cup Final that will be held at BMO Field on November 21st. With the recent protests by TFC supporters serving as a backdrop to the discussion, Garber had several messages for the fans that he said have “made the MLS what it is today.” “I have absolutely no doubt that we (as a league) would not be in the position we are – which is a respected, credible, growing professional sports league in the world – without the success of TFC,” said Garber. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5606932 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5606932 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 19:41:00 EDT In a tumultuous season in which many of the new faces to the TFC roster failed to perform as hoped, the play of fullback/midfielder Dan Gargan has to be counted as one of the highlights. After spending much of the 2010 preseason trialing with the team, the 27 year old American was signed by the club on the morning of the season opener at Columbus Crew on March 27th and he made his Toronto debut against the New England Revolution on April 10th. Since that debut the versatile Georgetown University product has been a mainstay in the lineup and a key player for the Reds. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5604795 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5604795 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 23:59:00 EDT TFC are looking for something … anything to go right to cap off this up and down, but ultimately down, season Tuesday night in their final match for the CONCACAF Champions League. When these clubs first met in Panama, Toronto were sitting pretty in Group A having knocked off Cruz Azul at BMO and now in a position to go to Panama and lock up their easiest road points that would have all but put them in the driver’s seat for the rest of the round robin. What unfolded was arguably TFC’s worst possible line-up and a 1-0 loss in an ugly affair that saw fouls, red cards and uninspired play. Now with the season signed, sealed and delivered, this is really the last chance to get a win for the Reds and they should be able to return the favour and give a handful of supporters something to cheer about. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5604765 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5604765 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 23:14:00 EDT BMO Field has often been described as the most intimidating place for opposing players to play in the MLS. With Toronto soccer fans angry about both the team's failures on the pitch this season and what they perceive to be outright greed on the part of the team's ownership group, Saturday's peculiar match presented a situation in which it wasn't a stretch to ask whether it was the home side that was intimidated at this fixture. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5602516 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5602516 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 23:14:00 EDT When Toronto FC made Nicholas Lindsay the second homegrown graduate from their Academy a little over a month ago, the news kind of got lost in all the hoopla surrounding the dismissals of Head Coach Preki and Director of Soccer Operations Mo Johnston and the team's exits from both the CONCACAF Champions League and the Major League Soccer Playoff race. Fast forward a month and the 18 year old is starting to look like a player that can be a genuine piece in the club's rebuilding efforts and an offensive threat that is primed for MLS success. In fact, in yesterday's 2-2 draw with the Columbus Crew, the Toronto native brought some of the aspects to the TFC attack that the team has been searching for all season long in terms of a wide player. There was a noticeable drop off in the Toronto attack when Lindsay and striker Maicon Santos were substituted for. Up until that point, Toronto actually looked much more dangerous than their playoff bound Eastern Conference rivals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5602244 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5602244 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 19:33:00 EDT A quiet weekend for Canadians playing overseas. It’s good to see the minutes adding up, and players such as Simeon Jackson firmly established in the starting eleven, but on this weekend there was little in terms of individual performance to make note of. It was more about the results as Jackson’s Norwich City were able to go toe to toe with financial heavyweights Queen’s Park Rangers, and at the far end of Europe both Josh Simpson and Mike Klukowski had huge results with Manisaspor defeating Besiktas 3-2 and Ankaragucu moving up the table after their 4-2 victory over Galatasaray. Atiba Hutchinson’s PSV remain top of the Eredivisie beating last place Willem 2 and won’t have a formidable match-up for a few more weeks when they take on Twente. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5602158 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5602158 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 18:36:00 EDT It was an afternoon of history at BMO Field this past Saturday. As the end approached, one was expecting it to be the team’s first win against the Columbus Crew, but what could be used as a metaphor for how this franchise has been operated over the last four years, they surrender the game tying goal via the opposing keeper. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5601731 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5601731 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 12:52:00 EDT On a gorgeous October afternoon the Columbus Crew arrived at BMO Field to take on Toronto FC in the Reds final home league match of the season. With supporter protests about a number of issues hanging over this game, in many ways, TFC are ending their fourth season in a very similar fashion to the way they started it, with countless questions about the roster and an unease among fans about the team's prospects for realizing any on-field success. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5600904 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5600904 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 00:53:00 EDT With the first night of Toronto FC’s townhall meetings over and done with, supporters have been able to digest what exactly this forum entails and what to expect as at least three more sessions will take place next week. For the first time the club has arranged an exercise where ticket holders can meet the front office and ask any questions they seem fit. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5598610 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5598610 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 22:57:00 EDT Despite failing to find the net in the first leg of their USSF-2 semi-final, the advantage lies with the Vancouver Whitecaps after a 0-0 draw on the road against the Puerto Rico Islanders. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5597365 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5597365 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:33:00 EDT The first road game of the year becomes the last home game of 2010. Toronto FC host the Columbus Crew at a point where the state of the club is almost in an identical position as their first encounter. When they first met at the end of March, TFC were short on bodies, not prepared for what lay ahead and playing a woeful brand of football. Although a lot has happened in between, the Reds are experiencing a bit of dèja vu when it comes to meeting this opponent. There are very few scenarios where one can envision Toronto coming away with not just one, but any points against a Columbus side who will be gunning for the win as the Eastern Conference title is still within their grasp. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5596322 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5596322 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 23:15:00 EDT Canada have proved that they can go toe-to-toe with the best, but the players don’t seem ready to believe it. Some things in life are all about perception. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5589692 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5589692 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 10:43:00 EDT For the third time in as many years with Teitur Thordarson as head coach, the Vancouver Whitecaps are in the semi-finals of the USSF-2. After a 2-0 win in the first leg in Vancouver Thursday, the Whitecaps lost 1-0 to the Timbers but it was enough to record the 2-1 aggregate win. It's the second straight year the Whitecaps beat a higher-seeded Portland team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5589492 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5589492 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 09:52:00 EDT It was a result that given how Toronto FC have fared against weaker opponents this season, should not have come as a shock. With the DC United home loss the benchmark for where this team stands, Toronto rolled into one of the few stadiums in MLS where they should have been able to grab all three points. Not only did they lose but were humbled by a team that had only scored four times in their last eight games. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5585830 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5585830 Sun, 10 Oct 2010 22:59:00 EDT Saturday night’s tilt between bottom dwelling Chivas USA and, now officially out of the playoffs, Toronto FC, was one being advertised as ‘playing for pride’. The San Jose Earthquakes put an end to any last mathematical hope the Reds had for clinging to any kind of miracle by defeating DC United 2-0. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5583740 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5583740 Sun, 10 Oct 2010 02:58:00 EDT Two goals in the first 15 minutes propelled the Vancouver Whitecaps to a 2-0 advantage after their first leg against MLS expansion cousins the Portland Timbers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5581018 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5581018 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 23:10:00 EDT Simeon Jackson and Atiba Hutchinson found the net in the first half, but Canada failed to hold onto the two-goal lead surrendering a pair of crushing second half goals. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5580681 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5580681 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 19:16:00 EDT With nothing left to play for, Toronto FC head down to sunny southern California to take on fellow ex-Preki side and out of the playoffs Chivas USA. If TFC supporters think their side and hopes have been left in shambles, then look no further than Chivas USA who have given DC United a run for their money as the bottom of the barrel in MLS this season. The Reds have not played a balanced or well rounded game perhaps since their first encounter in early August, but even with there being noticeable holes in their game Toronto’s new found goal scoring should be enough to come back home with points in hand. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5578742 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5578742 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 23:14:00 EDT Coach Stephen Hart carried a stern expression as he watched his team train this morning at Dynamo Stadium in Kiev. That could be because his team are in for a stern test. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5577475 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5577475 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 11:23:00 EDT Olivier Occean, David Edgar and Julian Uccello spoke to Max Bell prior to Friday's friendly. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5577474 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5577474 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 11:22:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Paul discuss the current state of Toronto FC, TFC midfielder Julian de Guzman, Paul's thoughts on how Toronto should move forward in developing the framework for a winning team, the Vancouver Whitecaps, Stephen Hart and the Men's Canadian National Team and Carolina Morace and the Woman's Canadian National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5576573 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5576573 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 01:11:00 EDT As Canada prepares to face the 26th ranked team in the world this coming Friday in Ukraine, Stephen Hart has had to make due with what some would say is not the strongest line-up we have seen over the past year. Canada is now on their seventh friendly in under 365 days and are looking to build off of decent performances at home in September that saw them lose to Peru in Toronto, but defeat nemesis Honduras 2-1 in Montreal a few days later. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5576572 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5576572 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 01:10:00 EDT Toronto FC’s die hard supporters and casual fans are once again feeling more blue then red, as Major League Soccer’s cash purse up north once again fails to deliver on what they set out to accomplish. Toronto FC have posted a 8-7-12 record so far, and with three essentially meaningless games to go, a lot can be said about both the disappointing and controversial manners in which Toronto FC finish off season four. Once again, Toronto FC is on the outside looking in at a coveted playoff spot, made more painful due to the fact that they themselves are hosting the MLS Cup Final this year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5573562 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5573562 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 19:29:00 EDT Although not the goal scoring tally we saw last weekend for Canadians abroad, it was another solid weekend of minutes played with some players having a significant hand in their club’s performances. With two established strikers ahead of Simeon Jackson at Norwich, it is encouraging to see the young Canadian continue to score at every level he is playing at and make his case to be given the start each week. His two goals for Norwich in their 3-0 victory over Bristol City keeps the Canaries in the promotion zone and put him atop team scoring. Iain Hume looks to be putting his time at Barnsley behind him and with what looks to be confidence from Preston North End in his abilities, Hume has helped the London club move out of the relegation spot. His second goal in three starts for them helped secure a thrilling 6-4 victory over Leeds mid-week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5568057 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5568057 Sun, 03 Oct 2010 17:01:00 EDT Even with a more offensive display, Toronto FC continues to put the nail in the coffin on this woeful season. It was like watching a fighter move up two weight classes as the starting line-up looked promising but at the end of the day Toronto could not complete with the bigger, stronger, faster and more complete Seattle Sounders. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5567945 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5567945 Sun, 03 Oct 2010 16:01:00 EDT When the Vancouver Whitecaps start play in MLS next season, the other new team in the league will be their regional neighbours, the Portland Timbers. It's fitting that the teams played their final regular season game in the USSF-2 against each other. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5567688 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5567688 Sun, 03 Oct 2010 13:24:00 EDT Today's matchup at Qwest Field between Toronto FC and the Seattle Sounders was very much a battle between two teams headed in different directions. With Seattle being the hottest team in the league since the World Cup break, the Reds were in tough in yet another must win match in their playoff chase. While the Sounders looked abysmal in the first half of the season, Head Coach Sigi Schmid now has the team looking like a genuine a MLS Cup contender and a certainty for the second playoff qualification. On the other side of the coin, TFC looked like a shoe in for the playoffs in advance of South Africa 2010, but have imploded in recent weeks. Toronto Head Coach Nick Dasovic fielded a reconstituted back line for this match in order to handle the pace down the wings that Seattle offers in Sanna Nyassi and Steve Zakuani. Nana Attakora slid over to right back and Ty Harden took his place beside Adrian Cann in the centre of defense, with Dan Gargan slotting in as the left back. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5565769 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5565769 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 19:26:00 EDT Following a week long training camp in Alliston, ON, the Canadian Women's National Team went into this International Friendly with 14th ranked China at BMO Field in Toronto looking to get a win on home soil and continue their preparations for the 2010 CONCACAF Women's World Cup Qualifier from October 28th to November 8th in Mexico. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5560291 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5560291 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 23:59:00 EDT It comes down to Saturday afternoon for Toronto FC, as they travel to Seattle to take on the Sounders in what could end up being the last meaningful game of their 2010 campaign. Despite still being ‘mathematically’ in the playoff picture, Toronto FC would need to have a run of four straight wins, three of which would be on the road, to still have any chance. Unfortunately for TFC they are up against a vastly improved Seattle side from their first encounter, who came out slow this year but are peaking at the right time. Seattle will be looking to improve their position in the table to secure the best seed possible in the post season, while Toronto needs to continue their damage control and stay competitive as long as possible to give supporters any hope that 2011 will be any better. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5560288 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5560288 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 23:59:00 EDT And that’s a wrap. Now there is one competition that Toronto are officially eliminated from, and in a few days will see if we will be discussing the ‘season that was’, even though there is three weeks of football left. Once again we saw TFC rise up against what is, on paper, a much more superior opponent and put forth a strong performance that give supporters hope that perhaps the team doesn’t need a complete overhaul. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5557008 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5557008 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 22:05:00 EDT Another day, another must win match. That has pretty much summed up the lives of the TFC coaching staff and players over the last several weeks and it applied to this CONCACAF Champions League match against Real Salt Lake. With a win TFC would still be in a position to move on to the quarterfinals of the competition. A loss or a draw and the Reds would be eliminated. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5554140 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5554140 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 23:52:00 EDT With Toronto FC facing yet another do or die match at home against Real Salt Lake in the CONCACAF Champions League on Tuesday evening, many Reds supporters likely once again find themselves hoping for the best while at the same time expecting the worst. After all, the last time these two clubs met, TFC was soundly defeated by a Salt Lake club with better depth and a team whose core has been together for several years now. And while Toronto is coming off a heartbreaking defeat to San Jose in league play, the club is also coming a very positive road draw in Mexico City against CONCACAF powerhouse Cruz Azul. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5551116 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5551116 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:15:00 EDT With Toronto FC’s playoffs all but mathematically over, they are up against a familiar foe this season, as they play their fourth and likely final encounter against Real Salt Lake. This head to head has not gone well for the Reds, losing both games in Utah handily and holding out for a 0-0 draw at home. As has become the case at this time of the year for everyone, it is a ‘must-win’ for both sides as Group A of the CONCACAF Champion’s League is coming down to the wire. After what was witnessed this past weekend, the game plan for Toronto should be obvious – throw everything and the kitchen sink at Salt Lake, load up the offence, pressure and hope your best players come ready to perform to keep the team alive to progress to the knockout stage. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5551035 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5551035 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:26:00 EDT If Toronto FC's 3-2 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday afternoon did not sting enough due to the fact that it likely ended any real chance for the club to make the playoff's this year, it probably stung just a little bit more for Toronto FC supporters in that it likely sealed a playoff berth for the club of former TFC midfielder Sam Cronin. Now let's be clear - Cronin was one of the classiest players ever to don a TFC kit and regardless of what supporters thought of his abilities as a player, he was well liked and there probably was not a single soul among TFC's rabid fan base that wished him any ill will when he was deemed surplus to requirements by now ex-Head Coach Preki. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547860 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547860 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 22:41:00 EDT http://www.rednationonline.ca/Impact_Best_Whitecaps_in_Vancouver_september_25_10_news.shtml http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547528 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547528 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 19:25:00 EDT OH CANADA! It was a weekend of fine goals abounds for Canadians playing in Europe. Where to begin as all the names hoped for were on the scoresheets and finally getting some good playing time. Josh Simpson stands head and shoulders above his peers with a stellar game putting three in the net and making some nice crosses as well in a 3-0 win for Turkish side Manisaspor. Rob Friend continues to show that given the right service, is a lethal target man in the box and can win games for his team as Hertha Berlin move to the top of the B2 table defeating Adam Straith’s Energie Cottbus 1-0. Of all the goals this weekend, perhaps one of the most encouraging is seeing Iain Hume settle in with his new team, Preston North end, and in his first full 90 minutes for the team get the game winner over Coventry City. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547527 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547527 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EDT After what looked to be another disastrous home encounter for TFC, a Dwayne De Rosario goal ignited the Reds and the sleepy side awoke to make a game of the final third of the match. However, it was not enough to save any points and they were punished for a poor start and completely absent first half that they needed to make more of a mark on. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547526 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5547526 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 19:23:00 EDT Toronto FC arrived back home to BMO Field coming off two results that had enabled the team to get back into contention for both the MLS playoffs and the next round of the CONCACAF Champions League. In other another matchup against one of the teams the Reds are trying to catch in the playoff chase, the San Jose Earthquakes arrived in town holding the 8th and final playoff spot and were coming off a 2-1 home win against the Philadelphia Union. Two familiar faces made their return to BMO Field in the forms of former TFC players Sam Cronin and Brian Edwards. The former started this match as a central holding midfielder while the latter was on the bench as the backup to starting keeper Jon Busch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5545364 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5545364 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 08:05:00 EDT oronto FC return to BMO Field for their first home game of the Nick Dasovic era. In taking on the San Jose Earthquakes, TFC find themselves in a near carbon copy match-up from last year when the home fixture represented a must win in order to stay in the playoff picture. Almost a year later to the date, it is still a must win, but San Jose are a much more formidable side than the last place club who came in and stole two points in the dying seconds. Toronto have not been able to get a lot of things right this year, most notably in the Designated Player position. If the scales are going to be tipped in this game, Toronto’s two highest paid players will need to start having a greater impact in league games. Without Julian De Guzman and Mista influencing the match in a positive way, there is little chance Dwayne De Rosario will be able to keep doing it all himself and secure all three points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5540056 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5540056 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 22:39:00 EDT It was a defensive performance that would have made Preki proud. However, it was also an offensive performance that ultimately sealed his fate. What Preki failed at miserably against the vastly inferior Arabe Unido, Nick Dasovic was able to construct to secure only the third draw from an MLS team in Mexico. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5540055 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5540055 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 22:38:00 EDT Toronto FC arrived at Estadio Azul in Mexico City facing what most observers would classify as a mission impossible. Even though they lost their opening match of the CONCACAF Champions League Group Stage to Toronto FC, powerhouse C.D. Cruz Azul have been arguably the best team in the tournament thus far. With TFC Head Coach Nick Dasovic having little time to really prepare his side since taking over for Preki, many expected that the Reds would be lucky to avoid a blowout in this match. In a possible tip of the hat as to where he plans to focus TFC's energies in the coming weeks, Dasovic choose to rest the majority of his first team on this day. Adrian Cann was given the Captain's armband to start this match and Jon Conway took Stefan Frei's place in net. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5534191 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5534191 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:16:00 EDT In almost the same breath that the sigh of relief came from Director of Soccer Mo Johnston being relieved of his duties, one of trepidation followed that this “big change” would be what MSLE could use to smooth over yet another ticket price increase. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5534190 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5534190 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:15:00 EDT Fresh of their first road win since the end of May, Toronto FC face the daunting task of traveling to Mexico City to take on powerhouse C.D. Cruz Azul. As tempting as it is to try and instill confidence from Saturday night for picking a potential TFC upset, the reality is that even in their 2-1 victory over Houston, for the majority of the game the Reds were completely absent and lacked the wherewithal to go for the throat. It is not often reliable to use the formula often employed in boxing or fighting sports of “If fighter A beats fighter B, and fighter B beat Fighter C, and so on …” but the most simple way to look at this is if TFC could not hang with Real Salt Lake on the road, they are up against all odds against a Cruz Azul side who came back from a 3-1 deficit against RSL at Estadio Azul to win 5-4. A team with as much balance and even more firepower than Salt Lake, Cruz Azul at home easily represent TFC’s toughest game of the year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5530961 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5530961 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 22:19:00 EDT Toronto FC are spared another week of doom and gloom as they were able to steal all three points in a game where the reality is they were for the most part dominated by Houston. After the first half it looked like they had sealed their fate as the type of performance we had seen against DC United - and to a lesser extent Real Salt Lake - was rearing it’s ugly head. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5528172 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5528172 Sun, 19 Sep 2010 23:08:00 EDT It was not a strong weekend of individual performances for Canadians playing overseas. Several players began their games on the bench, as specifically those playing in England that normally will get the nod for the start came in during the second half. The one positive is that in both England and Germany, Canadians’ clubs plying their trade in the second division are near the top of the table as Jamie Peters at Ipswich, Simeon Jackson at Norwich, and David Edgar at Burnley are all in the top half of the table in the early going of this campaign. In Germany specifically we are seeing CMNT mainstays Rob Friend at Hertha Berlin, Marcel De Jong at FC Augsburg and Adam Straith at Energie Cottbus all tied for first. The only Canadian to score was Josh Simpson who should be continuing to rise his stock in Turkey as a player who could possibly move to one of the top sides during the January window, as was noted was close to happening last year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5528171 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5528171 Sun, 19 Sep 2010 23:07:00 EDT Toronto FC limped into Robertson Stadium to a face the Houston Dynamo and to try and stop the bleeding on what has become an almost oppressively frustrating run of poor play for pretty much everyone involved with the club. While Houston has endured a very poor season and are clearly not the MLS power they have been in recent seasons, the Reds went into this match never having beaten the Dynamo on their home turf. With the team coming off the very sound thumping that they received at the hands of Real Salt Lake in Champions League play midweek, TFC Head Coach Nick Dasovic hoped the return of striker Chad Barrett to the starting lineup could play a part in spurring his side to a much needed victory. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5525879 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5525879 Sat, 18 Sep 2010 23:43:00 EDT If the TFC players wanted to show that playing under Preki was undermining their fullest potential, then their performance against Real Salt Lake did little to confirm this. As much as the referee played a part in the hammering, it was clear for all to see the chasm of talent and organization between these two sides. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5520086 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5520086 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:36:00 EDT Pat and Red Nation discuss Houston’s current campaign, his thoughts on the Vancouver Whitecaps joining Major League Soccer, the Men's Canadian National Team, his experiences playing in Scotland, Toronto FC keeper Stefan Frei, his thoughts on how teams can be successful in the MLS and TFC's new Interim Head Coach Nick Dasovic. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5520067 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5520067 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:11:00 EDT Nick Dasovic once again is given little to no turnaround time to prepare his team as Toronto FC travel to the unfriendly confines of Robertson Stadium where they have never beaten the Houston Dynamo. With the chance to make a statement about the state of the coaching all but squandered Wednesday night, with a little help from the referees, the Reds still have one last chance to get some points this season against the second worst team in MLS and one whose form has been almost equally terrible. If Toronto are going to still give supporters any kind of lifeline for this season they will need to bury their chances and tighten up on set pieces, but at this stage of game it might be asking too much and realistically it is another game where one point would be looked at as a major victory. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5519804 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5519804 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 21:08:00 EDT The Mo Johnston era is over and Preki has been relieved of his duties as TFC Head Coach. Interim Head Coach Nick Dasovic went into this match with one day to prepare his squad for what looked like it would be Mission Impossible. Real Salt Lake have not lost at home in almost two years and presented the Reds with an opposition club that leads the MLS in goals scored and is also the team that has conceded the fewest goals. Nana Attakora missed this match due to family reasons and Designated Player started this one on the bench. Before the match, Toronto FC announced that Nicholas Lindsay has become the second academy player to sign with TFC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5517011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5517011 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:57:00 EDT Third time lucky? On their fifth of nine lives? Another kick at the can? Whatever metaphor you use and whatever way you look at it, MLSE continues to find new and creative ways to leave their supporters with little confidence they know how to run the sports side of their enterprise. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5512709 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5512709 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:37:00 EDT With the news heard around TFC-Land today that both head coach Preki and Director of Soccer Mo Johnston have been ‘relieved of their duties’, interim head coach Nick Dasovic has only one day to work his wonders and get his side to reverse their form from the last six games. He could not have asked for a tougher opponent as Toronto will have to come up with the performance of the season to get points away at Real Salt Lake in Wednesday’s CONCACAF Champion’s League tilt. 22-games unbeaten in MLS play at Rio-Tinto Stadium, 29 goals for, 7 against in all competitions, it is no stretch to say given the turmoil inside the club, despite the severing of the most poisonous elements, TFC are likely not mentally in a state to handle an opponent like Real Salt Lake and to keep the scoreline respectable should be the order of the day. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5512547 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5512547 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 23:01:00 EDT In a match that was calling out for a statement performance, the Reds delivered a stinker that could likely go down as one of the worst performances in the history of the club. After the match, TFC Head Coach Preki was quick to point out that this was the team's third match in a week and that he felt the team was simply suffering from a combination of exhaustion and injuries to key players. And while those factors likely played a significant role in the debacle that had the BMO Field supporters booing the team as the end of the match neared, they don't fully explain what happened yesterday. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5507040 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5507040 Sun, 12 Sep 2010 22:17:00 EDT With the FIFA International dates now behind them, Canadians abroad continued their season in Europe. Several Canadians came off the bench to contribute to their team’s efforts, but it was three in particular who had outstanding starts for their teams. Rob Friend netted two goals and had a hand in the other to show that he is truly head and shoulders a solid target man if given the right service as Hertha Berlin defeated Arminia Bielefeld 3-1. Marcel De Jong’s set piece resulted in the first goal for Augsberg and was in the right place at the right time to pounce on a keeper mistake to score and secure a 2-0 win over Bochum. Atiba Hutchinson continues to prove his worth in a stacked midfield at PSV as he switched to right back and provided the cross that gave the Eindoven club their insurance goal in their 3-1 win over NEC. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5507039 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5507039 Sun, 12 Sep 2010 22:16:00 EDT Toronto FC's scoring difficulties persisted once again on the road in Chicago. Unlike last season, if Toronto does not make the playoffs, it won't be because of defensive breakdowns late in matches. Instead, the team's lack of scoring has started to become epidemic as the club's playoff hopes start to fade. Last season many TFC supporters wanted to get rid of striker Chad Barrett due to his poor finishing. This season most Reds fans are likely praying for the return of the team's second leading scorer to the lineup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5500687 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5500687 Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:10:00 EDT Both Head Coach Preki and Team Captain Dwayne De Rosario have been quoted over the last couple of weeks as saying that it was still to early to label any match as being a must win in terms of the club's aspirations of making the 2010 MLS Playoffs. And TFC won't be mathematically eliminated from the playoff race if they fail to pick up three points at home against D.C. United, the team that currently sits last overall in the Major League Soccer standings with 15 points. That said, if Toronto cannot win at home against the worst team in the league, it's probably time to forget the postseason and start planning for next year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5500685 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5500685 Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:09:00 EDT Toronto arrived at Toyota Park to face a struggling Chicago Fire side that were without leading scorer Marco Pappa, who was away on international duty. With both teams on the outside looking in on the playoff race, this was match in which both Chicago and Toronto needed to come away with three points. For the Reds, this game presented a much better opportunity to pick up points on the road than the team had had against a streaking FC Dallas side on Saturday. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5498705 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5498705 Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:22:00 EDT The 101st ranked red and white picked up two first half goals from Josh Simpson and Kevin McKenna and were able to shut the door in the second half as they picked up a well deserved 2-1 victory over visiting Honduras, ranked 46th by FIFA at Stade Saputo in Montreal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5496534 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5496534 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:37:00 EDT When Toronto FC go up against the Chicago Fire at Toyota Park on Wednesday night, it won’t exactly be a clash of the titans, but it should be a match in which both teams leave it all on the pitch. With both the Fire and TFC struggling recently, this game has major playoff implications for both teams in that it is pretty much a must win game for both if they have any designs on even staying in the postseason hunt. On paper, both teams very much look like MLS playoff teams, but the performance of both clubs this season has been disappointing and it is very unlikely that both will be playing in November. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5496521 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5496521 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:34:00 EDT World Cup Qualifying doesn't get underway for almost two years but for the players of team Canada, results right now are almost as important as when they're in the midst of qualifying. When Honduras lines up across the pitch from the Canadians at Saputo Stadium in Montreal on Tuesday, it will be the visitors who will likely have the advantage in fan support. It's gotten to the point where Canadian players even accept that they're not likely to feel like most of a stadium supports them and home games are just in name only. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5493854 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5493854 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 18:20:00 EDT Peruvian fans made up the better part of the meagre 10,619 fans at BMO Field for Saturday’s friendly. It was the same old apathetic turnout for Canada’s National Team. Isn’t it time we considered leaving the marketing of these games to the experts? There’s a disconnect. This is a city that draws 20,000 fans week-in and week-out for soccer matches, but when Canada brings together its best 11 players to perform for the country: only a couple thousand Canadian fans bother to turn up. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491973 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491973 Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:33:00 EDT After a long wait for Canadian soccer supporters, Canada played their first match at BMO Field since drawing with Jamaica in a 2009 World Cup Qualifying match, going up against Peru earlier today. After a playing several friendlies this year with more experimental lineups, Stephen Hart had most of his core lineup available, with Toronto FC midfielders Dwayne De Rosario and Julian de Guzman both in the starting lineup. 2009 Male Canadian Player of the Year Simeon Jackson started this one as a right winger, with Rob Friend and De Rosario starting as the striker duo up front. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491224 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491224 Sun, 05 Sep 2010 04:00:00 EDT With Toronto FC missing three starters due to International duty, the Reds delivered a valiant effort in this one. If points were awarded solely based on effort and hard work, then Toronto would have taken all three on this day. This match was actually one of TFC's better road performances this year. But with De Rosario playing a friendly for Canada and Chad Barrett and Maicon Santos still unable to play effectively due to injury, this match simply highlighted the fact that Toronto has very few dependable goal scorers on its roster. The starting eleven had only scored four goals all season - 2 by White and Nick LaBrocca and Dan Gargan with one each. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491223 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491223 Sun, 05 Sep 2010 03:59:00 EDT With Dwayne De Rosario, Julian de Guzman and Nana Attakora all unavailable due to international duty with Canada, the odds did not look good for TFC going into this match. With strikers Chad Barrett and Maicon Santos both still recovering from injuries, Preki had very few offensive options to work with on this day. And with Dallas being the hottest team in the league, the available players were going to have to step up and deliver if the Reds were to have any hope of coming away from this match with something. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491222 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5491222 Sun, 05 Sep 2010 03:59:00 EDT Max Bell speaks with members of the Men's Canadian National Team at BMO Field following the team's final training session for their match against Peru. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5489017 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5489017 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 20:54:00 EDT As the Men's Canadian National Team has gone about preparing for their two friendly matches against Peru and Honduras, a lot of attention has been devoted to the possibility of veteran defender Paul Stalteri becoming Canada's all-time caps leader if he plays in both matches. And while MCNT Head Coach Stephen Hart has called in more veteran players for the two home matches than we saw in Canada's most recent games, another always important story to follow is the evolution of the next generation that will replace some of the older players on the team in the coming years. While many have often questioned whether or not Canada has been producing players that can be the next Paul Stalteri or next Jason De Vos, the central defender position looks to be one that has very promising young players looking to seize that mantle. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5488718 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5488718 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EDT Canada looks to put right the early errors of the last qualifying campaign when the team hits home soil for the first time in two years for the upcoming matches in Toronto and Montreal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5487450 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5487450 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:23:00 EDT With road points already having been very hard to come by for Toronto FC this season, the Reds face the unenviable task of going into Pizza Hut Park without Dwayne De Rosario, Julian De Guzman and Nana Attakora, with all three having been called up for International duty by Canadian National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart. With several other players injured or just returning from injury, Preki will have to field a patchwork lineup against a Dallas side that is the hottest club in Major League Soccer. FC Dallas currently sits 3rd in the Western Conference with 37 points and is on a 12-game unbeaten streak. While it has been said many times after Toronto’s six draws this season that the results felt like losses due to the club’s inability to secure all three points, a draw in this one would likely feel like a huge victory and would be both a boost to the club’s confidence and their playoff chances. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5486014 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5486014 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:05:00 EDT It was something of a quiet weekend for Canadians overseas, with a number of players not starting or playing significant minutes. Notable performers included Josh Simpson, who scored in a 4-2 loss to Fenerbahce, and Lars Hirschfeld, who kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 win over Molde. Atiba Hutchinson continues to log significant minutes with PSV Eindoven and Adam Straith delivered another strong performance in 2-1 victory over Arminia Bielefeld. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5480918 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5480918 Sun, 29 Aug 2010 22:43:00 EDT With the majority of the remainder of TFC's matches to be played on the road, it was imperative that the team came out of this one with all three points. The fact that they did not does not bode well for the club's playoff hopes. Once again it was the offense that let the team down. Even with Nana Attakora missing due to a suspension for the red card he picked up against New York last week, the team delivered the type of defensive performance that has become the hallmark of the club under Preki. Stefan Frei delivered another strong performance in net, Adrian Cann was once again rock solid and Ty Harden delivered a very strong performance in place of Attakora. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5479648 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5479648 Sun, 29 Aug 2010 04:44:00 EDT The reigning MLS Cup champions in the form of a formidable Real Salt Lake club arrived at BMO Field looking for their first ever victory in Toronto. Like TFC they are coming off what was likely a mentally and physically draining CONCACAF Champions League defeat, having lost a complete heartbreaker against Cruz Azul on Wednesday night after leading 3-1 at one point. However, Real Salt Lake have experienced very few letdowns in MLS league play this year, having lost just once in their last 11 MLS matches as they have moved up the Western Conference standings into second place, just four points behind the Los Angeles Galaxy. While they don't have players with the name recognition that Toronto's previous opponent the New York Red Bulls, they are a more cohesive and balanced team with considerable depth at every position. Thus, it wasn't a stretch to say that this match presented with an even bigger test than the one they faced when they lost to the Red Bulls 4-1 to end the club's home unbeaten streak. With Nana Attakora suspended due to his red card against the Red Bulls, Toronto was going to need Ty Harden to step and an play a key role in shutting down the top goal-scoring team in the league. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5479257 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5479257 Sat, 28 Aug 2010 23:14:00 EDT Toronto FC return home to BMO field, after a more than forgettable display of football in Panama, to take on their tournament counterparts, Real Salt Lake, in league play. Both teams are coming off mid-week losses and likely feeling the effects of traveling from central America back to Toronto. It will be a matter of who can put these game behind them and have the mental steel to move on and focus on the task at hand. TFC rested some key players, which contributed to the poor game, but will be without one half of their formidable CB pairing with Nana Attakora serving suspension. Real Salt Lake are more fortunate to have built a side with far more balance and depth and will have players in all key areas of the pitch rested and ready to go. While Salt Lake are in a position where they can afford to lose this game, TFC are starting to slip and absolutely need to put forth their best effort to re-establish themselves in the league and regain form and confidence to take them through the fall. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5474187 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5474187 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 22:45:00 EDT Men’s Canadian National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart unveiled the roster for Canada's upcoming friendlies in Canada against Peru and Honduras via a media conference call today. Canada's national roster features a mix of veterans and young players that are progressively making their way into the national program. Paul Stalteri is the most experienced player on the roster, having made 81 appearances for his country - one less than the national record held by Randy Samuel. Stalteri is also the oldest player on the roster, although he is only 32 years old. Centre back Adam Straith is the youngest player on the squad at just 19 years of age. Straith is one of several new young players that joined the national team this season. Also new to the national squad this season are centre back Nana Attakora (21 years), goalkeeper Haidar Al-Shaïbani (26) and midfielder Gianluca Zavarise (24). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5473367 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5473367 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:55:00 EDT It's easy to look at Toronto FC's loss to Arabe Unido and conclude that coach Preki gambled badly. He sat Dwayne DeRosario. He sat Mista, perhaps over a tiff. He perpetuated in his effort to turn prospect Joseph Nane into a pro overnight, though he's mostly raw talent. There are good reasons for all of these moves ... if a team can still forge a win. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5471297 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5471297 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 22:37:00 EDT After setting themselves up in a prime position to be ahead of their competition in Group A of the CONCACAF Champion’s League, Toronto FC completely waste their start to the group stage by putting forth arguably their worst possible starting XI and performance to match it against Arabe Unido in Panama. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5471183 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5471183 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 21:16:00 EDT Coming off a very poor performance in league play against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, Toronto FC likely welcomed the opportunity to get right back into action only three days later in Panama City against Arabe Unido. Having had the luxury of being able to watch their Champions League opponents playing against Real Salt Lake last week, TFC likely knew what they would be up against on this day. Living up to the stereotype that Central American teams will exaggerate fouls and simulate injury, Arabe Unido were likely to employ similar tactics to the ones they did in Salt Lake City. Thus, a key for TFC was going to be keeping their heads and not allowing themselves to be goaded by poor gamesmanship. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5468243 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5468243 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:37:00 EDT With Canadian National Team Head Coach Stephen Hart expected to name his rosters for Canada's friendlies against Peru and Honduras at some point over the next several days, it will be very interesting to see if any of the Canadians plying their trade with Toronto FC will be named to the roster. With TFC currently in the midst of an extremely busy schedule and endeavouring to both qualify for the MLS playoffs and have success in the CONCACAF Champions League, it's likely a safe bet to assume that Toronto FC Head Coach Preki is not too anxious to allow Julian de Guzman, Dwayne De Rosario, Nana Attakora, Adrian Cann or Gabe Gala to miss a key league match or risk injury in an exhibition match. Thus, once again Canadian National Team supporters will rue the fact that Major League Soccer does not recognize FIFA's International Match Calendar. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5468239 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5468239 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:36:00 EDT Toronto FC only had two days to forget and move on from their thrashing at the hands of the New York Red Bulls as they travel to Panama to face Arabe Unido in their second group stage match in the CONCACAF Champion’s League. TFC have shown a propensity to bounce back after bad losses and last weekend’s game in New York is a prime example of how quickly the Reds can turn around from a poor performance and do what it takes to win the next game. Traveling to Panama will hopefully be smoother than Honduras, as they will be in tough against a side who are still reeling from their game against Real Salt Lake. Toronto will have to be well prepared for what could be in store for them if they are to come away with points in what is traditionally an unforgiving region for MLS sides. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5464552 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5464552 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 22:33:00 EDT The undefeated home streak is over, as Toronto FC are sunk 4-1 by the New York Red Bulls. It was a loss that TFC need to identify and remedy their mistakes and simply move on from. Hopefully at the end of the day it is not a difference in $10 million dollars as the Reds did in fact look to be in the game for the first 45 minutes despite the Marquez wonder strike and Nane own goal. However, once again depth rears it’s ugly head and once some key players were out of the game the remaining players could not hold off New York, or offer anything positive to the effort. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5462048 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5462048 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 23:49:00 EDT With the majority of Canadians overseas playing in the second division this season, it is encouraging to see most getting significant playing time early on in the season. Those who have not won the starting role are still making an impact. Most notable, striker Simeon Jackson came on for Norwich City and bagged surely one of the finer goals of the weekend in his side’s 2-0 victory over Swansea. Atiba Hutchinson has kept a hold of his starting position with PSV, going all 90 minutes in a 3-0 victory over AZ. Rob Friend looked to continue his contribution with Hertha Berlin, but unfortunately was subbed out early after suffering a concussion on an attempted bicycle kick in his club’s 3-2 victory over RW Oberhausen. The last game of note was Mike Klukowski’s first in making his move from Belgium’s Club Brugge to Turkey’s Ankaragucu, where he went the full game against Josh Simpson’s Manisaspor, with Klukowski getting the better of the match in a 3-0 win. Here’s how the rest of Canadian Internationals did this past weekend. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5462021 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5462021 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 23:27:00 EDT Almost lost in the hoopla surrounding Thierry Henry's first MLS match in Toronto was the return to BMO Field of one Toronto's FC original members and a player who - along with Jim Brennan and Danny Dichio - very much symbolized the initial several years of Major League Soccer in Toronto. And while the French Superstar was not able to score in his Toronto debut, Carl Robinson scored in front of the fans that he has always had so much respect for. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5460124 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5460124 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 00:15:00 EDT With the Canadian National Exhibition kicking off this weekend in Toronto, TFC went into this match looking to get off the rollercoaster they have been on with their league form since the World Cup break. With the Major League Soccer playoff race extremely tight, the Reds needed to remove all thoughts about the CONCACAF Champions League from their minds and concentrate on getting all three points against an Eastern Conference rival in the New York Red Bulls. With Toronto coming off impressive wins against Chivas USA and Cruz Azul - in the Champions League - and lackluster losses on the road to Kansas City and New York, anything less than a win at home against Henry, Angel, Marquez and the rest of the Red Bulls would be a serious blow to TFC’s playoff aspirations. Stefan Frei was back in net for this one and Julian de Guzman was suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5459730 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5459730 Sat, 21 Aug 2010 19:42:00 EDT One game does not a season make, but for anyone who watched the key role that Miguel Ángel Ferrer Martínez, aka Mista, played in Toronto's stunning win over Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul on Tuesday evening, it's hard not to be excited about the stellar performance given by TFC's spanish designated player. With critics starting to chatter about his lacklustre performances against New York and Kansas City, the former Valencia, Atlético Madrid and Deportivo La Coruña maestro rose to the occasion against the Mexican favourites and delivered everything that the Reds required in almost every facet of the game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455314 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455314 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:39:00 EDT Maybe we'll see a new national Canadian soccer league sooner than later — if the United States Soccer Federation sticks to its guns, anyway. A week after this column discussed the potential, the USSF has released its mandatory regulations for second division soccer in 2011. And several Canadian cities are bound to be left out. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455252 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455252 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:32:00 EDT One of the biggest worries that North American soccer fans have always had when their teams sign big names stars is that these players often look at playing on this side of the Atlantic as a vacation or a form of semi-retirement. Former Chelsea midfielder and German National Team captain Michael Ballack was quoted a couple of months ago as saying that he wasn't yet ready to "retire" to the United States or Dubai and ultimately ended up signing with Bayer Leverkusen of the German Bundesliga. It is a worry that stretches all the way back to the days of the North American Soccer League when all time greats like Pele and Franz Beckenbaur played their professional twilight years with the New York Cosmos. While they did have some success on the pitch, their time in New York was often most noted for hanging out with celebrities and parties at Studio 54. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455138 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455138 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 20:59:00 EDT Toronto FC look to avenge last Saturday's 1-0 loss as they take on the New York Red Bulls in the return fixture at BMO Field. Against the three DP Red Bulls, Toronto will have to put forth a similar effort to the one we saw against Cruz Azul if they are to keep their unbeaten home record intact. New York are still looking to regain their form from the early part of their season, as even with the addition of Thierry Henry they have been struggling to score and their only win in the last five was the home game against Toronto. TFC, at home, are another beast, and even with some mediocre outings, getting all three points has become near impossible. As long as the Reds remain confident, but not cocky, come in prepared, not hung over, and if TFC can approach this game like their Champion's League match on Tuesday, they should be able to secure another important three points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455078 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5455078 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 19:39:00 EDT “The match heard around CONCACAF”, as Toronto FC deliver an inspiring performance that puts Group A on notice that history, prestige, position in the table means nothing and when it comes down to player for player, on a given night, TFC are capable of standing toe to toe with the best teams in the region. Here is the breakdown of the starting XI with current game and (season average). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5453032 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5453032 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 23:01:00 EDT Whether it was the back to back league games against New York or just a personal affection for the music of Frank Sinatra, Preki certainly made it clear that he was going to do things his way in Toronto FC’s 2010/11 CONCACAF Champion’s League group stage opening match. With Jon Conway and Maksim Usanov getting starts over Stefan Frei and Dan Gargan, many were likely to question these lineup choices given that TFC was going up against one of the most successful teams in the history of the premier CONCACAF club tournament. If the previously vanquished Motagua represented a formidable CONCACAF opponent, then Cruz Azul could realistically be described as CONCACAF on steroids. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5449699 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5449699 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 00:36:00 EDT Toronto FC kicks off the 2010/11 CONCACAF Champion’s League group stage against what can easily be touted as the biggest club to arrive at BMO Field in a competitive match. C.D. Cruz Azul come to Toronto wielding some of the best players in the region and backed with decades as being one of the top club sides not just in North America, but the hemisphere. TFC will have to put forth one of the most massive efforts seen at home to come away with all three points, as the Mexican powerhouse will be looking to make a statement. After two years in a row losing in the Champion’s League final, this year they are out, as well as favoured, to win it all. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5445244 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5445244 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:28:00 EDT It has been a long summer for Canadian Internationals based in Europe waiting for the new campaign to begin and now every league is playing football. For players moving clubs and divisions it has been a good start for them and their clubs. Rob Friend signed on with Hertha Berlin and returned to the division where he netted 18 goals a few years ago. He put in his first of the year with a 2-0 victory over SC Pfullendorf in the DFB-Pokal tournament. Tossiant Ricketts continues to have an impressive season in Finland where he has put away another goal for MyPa and adds to his season tally in a 1-1 draw with OULU. Perhaps the most high profile move of the off-season was Atiba Hutchinson switching over to Eredivisie side PSV Eindoven where he played the full 90 in their home opener resulting in a 6-0 win. Hutchinson will likely be in tough competition in a very stacked midfield. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5442978 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5442978 Sun, 15 Aug 2010 23:10:00 EDT A disappointing result for Toronto FC as New York showed they had just that much more talent on the pitch to edge out a 1-0 victory. It was a far cry from some of the woeful road performances we've seen, but the result is still the same and this match raised some key questions that will need to be addressed if TFC are to seriously contend for the playoffs. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5436768 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5436768 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 21:40:00 EDT With Toronto FC entering what many are calling the busiest and most challenging period in the club's history, some observers have called into question the luxury of carrying three keepers on the roster when one is essentially playing almost every minute. And while it is true that the team could likely use a spot to further supplement the depth on the roster with another winger or some more cover on the backline, it is still hard to question the club's strategy of retaining and developing 25 year old Serbian keeper Milos Kocic as the possible starting keeper of the future. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5435534 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5435534 Thu, 12 Aug 2010 10:17:00 EDT Toronto FC arrived at Red Bulls Arena knowing that if they could deliver their second win on the road this season, they would leapfrog New York and move into second place in the Eastern Conference. And while many in the U.S. have taken to anointing the Red Bulls as the next MLS dream team due to their signings of former Arsenal and Barcelona star Thierry Henry and Mexican National Team Captain Rafael Marquez, the Reds certainly entered this match brimming with confidence and with a good chance of achieving a result. With Marquez absent due to International duty and Henry still getting into game shape and nursing a mild groin strain, Toronto were likely hoping they had caught the new look Red Bulls before they had really caught their stride. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5434376 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5434376 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 22:21:00 EDT After a couple of rare weeks taken away from most things footy, I was happily enjoying a few replays from Toronto FC's tie in Honduras when my mate offered a rather cynical assertion. He'd just watched Man. United dismantle the MLS all-stars. "Good thing MLS is becoming popular, or we'd never have professional football in Canada, eh Jer?" http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5432730 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5432730 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 07:51:00 EDT In this interview, Julian and Red Nation discuss his experiences playing at various levels in Italy, his goal of becoming the first Canadian to play in a Serie match, his current club Crotone, his experiences playing with the AC Milan youth setup and his aspirations at the International level. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5431970 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5431970 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 22:21:00 EDT Toronto FC return to the city, but fortunately not the stadium, where arguably the biggest debacle in the club's short history took place. The Reds travel to the shiny new Red Bull Arena for Wednesday night to take on the revamped and recently retooled New York. What a difference an offseason makes, for both teams involved. In their last meeting New York had put in one of the worst season's in MLS history and Toronto decided to take a pass on the playoffs by putting forth a performance worthy of the 5-0 scoreline. Not even a year later you would be hard pressed to convince supporters then that these two teams would be neck and neck for second in the Eastern Conference. Both sides are in the midst of a tough spot in their schedule and can ill afford to drop points as the post-season race is heating up. With New York missing several key players to international duty, and Thierry Henry still lacking fitness, this road match for Toronto presents a golden opportunity to grab some crucial away points and secure them a spot closer to the top of the table. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5431749 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5431749 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 19:34:00 EDT With Toronto FC’s recent qualification for the CONCACAF Champions League Group Stages, many TFC supporters applauded the achievement and then immediately took to worrying about whether the six extra games on the schedule might have a detrimental effect on the club’s chances of qualifying for the MLS playoffs for the first time. After all, Toronto FC would not be the first MLS club to see their playoff hopes go down the drain due to a fairly small roster succumbing to a heavy schedule of league matches and Champions League fixtures. And many will argue that the team’s recent loss of a very winnable match on the road to Kansas City was very much a result of the team saving their energy for a CONCACAF match against Honduran side Motagua. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5429855 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5429855 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:39:00 EDT TFC put in a solid ninety minutes and erased memories from 2009 by holding on right down to the final whistle for the win over Chivas USA. An overall excellent performance by all parties involved as an in form Justin Braun and Chivas USA could not put forth the final touch to come away with anything at BMO. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5427433 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5427433 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 22:02:00 EDT Podcast and Post-game Report: Toronto FC arrived back at BMO Field on Saturday not having much time to savour their CONCACAF Champions League defeat of Honduran side Motagua. The Reds went into this match against Toronto Head Coach Preki’s former club, Chivas USA, in pretty much a must win situation. Sitting in the 3rd place in the Eastern Conference, TFC’s recent run of draws at home and a disappointing loss against Kansas City on the road last week have placed the Red’s MLS playoffs hopes in a somewhat precarious position, with the MLS table bunching up and a multitude of playoff competitors nipping at their heels. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5425574 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5425574 Sat, 07 Aug 2010 23:48:00 EDT David Monsalve was in tough in his first start in his first start in over 2 months, taking on Belgium’s Racing Genk in the second leg of Europa League qualifying. With Inter Turku already down 5-1 after their home fixture, the Finnish side came away with respect, losing 3-2 in Genk. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5422506 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5422506 Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:18:00 EDT Buoyed from their CONCACAF Champions League advancement on Tuesday, Toronto FC will have to come down to earth Saturday to take on Chivas USA in an MLS regular season tilt. Not long ago Toronto were in a comfortable position in terms of a playoff seed but several teams have caught up with or passed them and they now sit tied for eighth. With Preki’s old club coming to town, a team that is on a nice run of form, it cannot be overstated that Toronto gets the win. With their next two fixtures a home and away against the New York Red Bulls, now Thierry Henry and Rafael Marquez’s New York Red Bulls, taking on an opponent of Chivas’ caliber, at home, is plainly put a must win if Toronto is going to stay in the mix, and not in the chase, for the post season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5421089 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5421089 Thu, 05 Aug 2010 22:32:00 EDT Overall it was not pretty. In fact overall it was quite ugly. However, this was the kind of performance that can be qualified and with that qualification an ugly TFC draw is in fact a beautiful, joyous victory. Everything that went down leading up to this game will only further cement the accomplishment of the Reds coming out with two goals and everything needed to advance into the group stage of the CONCACAF Champions League. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5418470 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5418470 Wed, 04 Aug 2010 22:19:00 EDT Toronto FC arrived at the powderkeg of Tegucigalpa, Honduras to take on C.D. Motagua in the second leg of their CONCACAF Champions League preliminary round with many prognosticators figuring that it was going to be a tall order for them to qualify for the group stage of the tournament. After all, TFC had played well in the home fixture of the tie, but had not buried the chances to score more goals in the comfortable confines of BMO Field and went into this match with the slimmest 1-0 on aggregate lead. The team had delivered possibly the most listless and uninspired performance in the history of the club on Saturday evening against Kansas City. And following an overall busy schedule since the end of the World Cup break, the team had their plane diverted away from Tegucigalpa to another airport and had to endure a five hour bus ride to get to the Honduran capital. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5415295 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5415295 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 23:37:00 EDT Toronto FC head down to the cauldron of Tegucigalpa, Honduras to take on C.D. Motagua in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions League preliminary round. The Reds did themselves no favours in the home fixture winning by the slim margin of 1-0, as the Estadio Nacional is known as one of the more intimidating places to play and get a result in Central America. Toronto took the gamble on the weekend by resting key players and lost 1-0 to Kansas City. Any momentum built from their win last week needs to be built again from scratch, however, to advance they don’t need to win, but draw or at least score a goal to push Motagua to have to net three. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5412096 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5412096 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 19:29:00 EDT One of the biggest cliches in professional sports is the one states that teams need focus on one game at a time and never look past the next opponent on their schedule. Toronto FC delivered a performance on Saturday that very much looked like a team that was thinking about their next CONCACAF Champions League match against Motagua on Tuesday. Muted is probably the best way to describe the performances given by pretty much the entire TFC squad against Kansas City. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5409739 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5409739 Sun, 01 Aug 2010 20:03:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps sit atop the USSF-2 NASL Division standings with a nine point advantage, but the Carolina Railhawks are nine points behind with four games in hand. There was no change to that status quo after the Whitecaps went into Carolina and were lucky to come away with a point. Vancouver blew a two goal lead but hung on for a 2-2 draw. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5409128 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5409128 Sun, 01 Aug 2010 13:42:00 EDT Toronto FC went into this road match at Community America Ballpark looking to hit one out of the park and hoping to get all three points. With TFC’s recent run of draws somewhat dampening the glow that surrounded the team going into the World Cup break, Toronto were looking to deliver another performance like the one that saw them defeat Motagua in their recent CONCACAF Champions League Qualifier. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5407841 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5407841 Sat, 31 Jul 2010 23:18:00 EDT Buoyed by a 1-0 victory over C.D. Motagua on Tuesday, Toronto FC now travel to their first away fixture of the week, taking on the Kansas City Wizards at Community America Ballpark. Both sides have had similar form since their first meeting of the season in early June and at first glance it looks to be a match between two struggling offences. It is in TFC’s best interest to keep their momentum from earlier in the week and get the result to continue gaining steam heading into Honduras next week. Kansas City has been poor at home as of late and even though both sides have been struggling to consistently find the back of the net, Toronto is the side that looks to be ready to break out and this could be the opponent to do so. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5402931 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5402931 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:46:00 EDT Born in London, England, Ryan Smith is an attacking midfielder who plays for the Kansas City Wizards. A key member of the Wizards attack, Smith is one of the most exciting young players plying his trade in Major League Soccer. As one of the top prospects in Arsenal’s youth system, he became one of youngest players ever to represent the Arsenal first team in a 2003 Carling Cup match against Rotherham United. After leaving the Gunners in 2006, Smith played several more seasons in England before making the jump to the United States where he has quickly established himself as an offensive force for the Kansas City Wizards. At the international level, he has been represented England at the U-20 level. In this interview, Ryan and Red Nation discuss his current MLS campaign with Kansas City, the Wizards recent win against Manchester United, his time with Arsenal in the English Premier League, his thoughts on how Major League Soccer compares to the football leagues in England and his upcoming match against Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5401519 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5401519 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:02:00 EDT Toronto FC put forth one of their best displays of technique and creativity that we have seen in recent memory, but unfortunately the song is still the same when it comes to finishing. The scoreline may induce some insecurity, as the away fixture in Honduras will likely be the most hostile environment TFC has ever played in, but the players should feel confident they were for the most part able to handle a very good Montagua team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5400300 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5400300 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:53:00 EDT Toronto 1 Motagua 0 The Prelude to Battle Toronto FC came into their second ever CONCACAF Champions League preliminary round on only two days rest following their draw on the weekend against FC Dallas. Club Deportivo Motagua of Honduras came into this match featuring a number of players who played on the Honduras World Cup squad that recently competed at 2010 World Cup in South Africa. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5398063 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5398063 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 01:57:00 EDT TFC fans have learned a lot this season about resiliency. A tougher team. A tougher team to beat. A tougher coach. These are all good things. But as the chorus swells for more offensive production, it's worth noting that the core of the team, the defense, hinges on a trio of Canadians: Julian DeGuzman, Nana Attakora and Adrian Cann. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5397957 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5397957 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:36:00 EDT TFC are on two days rest in need of finding an answer quick to their scoring woes if they are to have any hope of advancing past Club Deportivo Motagua of Honduras in this home fixture of the Preliminary round in the CONCACAF Champions League. The Reds are up against one of the top teams in the Honduran Liga Nacional, and one that boasts a handful of players from their national team that participated in the World Cup this summer. Goals are going to be the key for Toronto if they are going to advance as it should be almost a given that in Honduras they will struggle for points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5395378 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5395378 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 21:15:00 EDT Toronto FC will feel hard done by and massively disappointed, that once again, their defending off of set pieces fails them. In what was in actuality one of their better performances as of late, supporters were treated to a Déjà vu performance from 2009 in the exact same fixture. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5390945 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5390945 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 17:55:00 EDT Podcast and Report: Toronto 1 Dallas 1 The Prelude to Battle On a very wet and rainy Saturday afternoon at BMO Field, Toronto went into this match not only looking likely to be tested by the elements, but also very much by a team that is in many ways a mirror image of themselves. FC Dallas is a team that gives up very few opposition goals, but one that also has had trouble scoring, with former TFC striker Jeff Cunningham unable to duplicate his form from last season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5388216 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5388216 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 01:18:00 EDT The battle of 2011 MLS expansion cousins resumed at Swangard Stadium with the Portland Timbers capitalizing on a man advantage for 25 minutes to get a 2-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps. Eight days after their highest scoring output of the season with a 3-1 win over Miami FC, the Whitecaps' familiar problems with a lack of finish in front of goal came back to haunt them. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5382159 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5382159 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 11:16:00 EDT Toronto FC will be glad to be back in the friendly confines of BMO Field this Saturday after a lackluster performance last weekend in Philadelphia. The Reds will have had to remedy their issues from this game quickly if they are to keep their perfect home record as the surging FC Dallas come to town. As one of the few sides in the league with a winning road record, Toronto will have to get their stalled offence going or they face the very real threat of coming away with no points two weeks in a row. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5380004 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5380004 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 22:03:00 EDT Well, that was dreadful. Will the real Toronto FC please stand up? If there was one thing Toronto FC's 2-1 capitulation to the Philadelphia Union demonstrated, it's that TFC's off-the-ball movement and offensive creativity are both firmly rooted in the miseries of the past. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5371453 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5371453 Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:24:00 EDT With the official announcement from Norwich City this past Thursday that they had captured sought after striker Simeon Jackson, supporters of the Canadian Men’s National Team can breathe a sigh of relief that one of their most promising players will spend the 2010/11 campaign stepping up his level of competition. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5364288 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5364288 Sun, 18 Jul 2010 22:26:00 EDT It was a hard match to watch, as Toronto FC lose a disappointing game on the road to the expansion Philadelphia Union. A sweltering Saturday afternoon produced a tough loss to swallow as the Reds unbeaten run is snapped by a team that outside of a good offence, are far from some of the opposition they have been able to beat or hold off so far this season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5364171 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5364171 Sun, 18 Jul 2010 21:35:00 EDT Toronto FC’s streak of eleven games without a loss ended by expansion Philadelphia Union Philadelphia return the favour to Toronto FC, as the Reds are defeated by the same scoreline they earned in the first fixture earlier in the season. 2-1. It was a largely uninspired outing by Toronto, and whether or not the extreme heat has played a part in their recent run of disconnected efforts, they will need remedy some glaring weaknesses that cost them points today and will certainly continue to do so in the future. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5361766 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5361766 Sat, 17 Jul 2010 22:53:00 EDT Toronto FC will be in tough in their first road game since May as they travel to Philadelphia to take on the expansion Union. Waiting on the completion of PPL Park, Philadelphia had to endure a rough early season schedule, which pitted them against tough opposition away from home. Now settling into their new stadium, and a full house to boot, Philadelphia will be much more difficult opponent then the one who came to BMO Field in April. However, the story remains the same for the Union as their defenders, and especially keeper, are prone to poor positioning and mistakes and these are the ingredients to get a stalled TFC offence back on track and in a prime position to steal points on the road. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5355312 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5355312 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 22:07:00 EDT Red Nation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Sebastien Le Toux, a striker/midfielder who is currently enjoying a breakout campaign with the Philadelphia Union of Major League Soccer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5351684 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5351684 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 22:49:00 EDT Adrian Cann made his name in Canada but it was his short spell in Denmark that helped secure a place in Toronto FC’s roster. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5347870 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5347870 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:22:00 EDT If you shot a water cannon into the crowd at any BMO field soccer match, chances are good you'd hit at least a handful of people with theories on how to popularize professional soccer in North America. All of the usual arguments would still apply: it's not a native sport here, it's slower paced than hockey, guys dive all the time etc etc. But every one of them would have an idea for how towns like Ottawa, Hamilton, London, Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Edmonton can make pro soccer work. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5344485 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5344485 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 23:03:00 EDT With the return of former Toronto FC right back Marvell Wynne to BMO Field yesterday and a very decent performance by the former 1st overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft, many Toronto fans likely reignited the debate as to which team “won” the trade that took place when the Reds sent Wynne to the Rapids in exchange for midfielder Nick LaBrocca last March. With both Wynne and LaBrocca delivering strong performances in a close match between their respective teams on Saturday and to date in 2010, it might actually be safe to say that this was one trade in which both teams “won”. While many sports fans like to constantly debate and highlight trades in which one manager has seemingly fleeced another, the most beneficial trades can often be the ones in which both teams and the players involved benefit from the transaction. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5341665 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5341665 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 22:57:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer Association has reserved four sections at BMO Field for use by the Voyageurs Canadian Soccer Supporters at the upcoming Canada vs Peru friendly in September. If you would like to attend the match in a supporter-designated section (112, 113, 114 or in the north end in 127), you will need to purchase your tickets via the Voyageurs. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5340891 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5340891 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 15:19:00 EDT Toronto FC snatch a critical victory at home grinding out the win over Colorado. With only three points to show from a possible nine in this homestand, three or four points out of twelve would have been considered a complete failure. With this win, Toronto gives themselves breathing room for third in the East, are undefeated in eleven games and will have confidence going on the road next week at PPL Park in Philadelphia. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5340890 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5340890 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 15:18:00 EDT Podcast and Postgame Report: On an absolutely gorgeous summer day at BMO Field, Toronto FC faced off against a Colorado Rapids team that defeated them convincingly in their last meeting. TFC desperately needed to win to salvage what has been an underwhelming, but far from disastrous home stand. While the team defense has been stellar in the last three matches which all resulted in draws, the offense has been in neutral for the last several weeks. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5338710 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5338710 Sat, 10 Jul 2010 17:44:00 EDT Toronto FC have cooled off significantly since May, but will have to deal with a heat wave and a 12 pm start this weekend as they square off against an in form Colorado Rapids. Their last encounter resulted in a 3-1 loss for TFC, but it was a game where the Reds appeared to be beginning to turn the corner on their poor start to the season and this weekend’s game could be the one where they regain their rhythm lost over the last three home games. With newly signed striker Mista waiting on the July 15 transfer window to open, Toronto will need an anemic offence to dig deep and produce a win or they will be left with only three or four points out of a possible twelve over this homestand. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5331921 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5331921 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:45:00 EDT Inside the MLS: Adrian Cann In this interview, Adrian and Red Nation discuss Toronto's current campaign, the TFC back line, Toronto's newest signing in Mista, his experiences playing in Europe with Danish side Esbjerg and his upcoming match against the Colorado Rapids at BMO Field. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5328404 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5328404 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:59:00 EDT With Hertha Berlin beginning their preseason workouts this week, there is one notable difference this year from seasons past: for the first time since 1996 they would be preparing for life in 2.Bundesliga. Key to their rebuilding and attempt to return immediately to the top level is one of their signings from a week ago. Canadian striker Rob Friend makes his return to the division where he began the German chapter of his career three years ago looking to regain his scoring prowess and become a feature striker in the Bundesliga. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5328259 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5328259 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:01:00 EDT That's the message Toronto FC is sending with its signing of Spanish forward Mista, a veteran target forward and poacher who lit it up at Valencia but has struggled as a La Liga role player since http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5323204 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5323204 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 15:02:00 EDT With Brazil’s exit from the 2010 World Cup, it was expected that a quarterfinal appearance would not be enough to save head coach Dunga’s job, and as we found out over the weekend, it wasn’t. His controversial team selection and rational for choices, although hard to argue with logically, raises an interesting dilemma that is not unique to Brazil but seems to have a place in their country, culture and history that stands apart from the rest. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5318810 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5318810 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 09:58:00 EDT Now into their second game after the World Cup break, Toronto FC looked much more energetic this week then their last game against Los Angeles. Unfortunately the result was essentially the same as a fully fit, and best starting XI for the Reds were unable to dispatch a Houston side that is nowhere near as formidable as in previous seasons. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5311843 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5311843 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 00:45:00 EDT Houston 1 Toronto 1 After two scoreless draws in their previous two matches at home, Toronto FC went into this Canada Day showdown against the Houston Dynamo with a clear goal of scoring some goals while still maintaining the excellent defensive form that has allowed them to rise near the top of the Eastern conference standings. Podcast and Postgame Report http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5308530 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5308530 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 01:27:00 EDT First thoughts Coming off of two 0-0 draws at home, Toronto FC remain in the defensive fortress that is BMO Field to host the Houston Dynamo Thursday night for Canada day. The Dynamo have never left BMO with all three points, and this was with a substantially more stacked line-up than what has been left for head coach Dominic Kinnear to work with in 2010. Sitting in sixth in the West, Houston has had a poor start to the season and shown some uncharacteristic results and lack of discipline against teams they normally would do better against. Once again TFC are given a golden opportunity at home to collect three points against an opponent who are not in peak form. With a few intangibles (announcement?) supposedly coming Thursday, this could be enough to get the Reds all three and put their two previous lackluster games behind them. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5308529 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5308529 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 01:25:00 EDT Two rather interesting things happened over the last two weeks in North American football: one, Landon Donovan matured into a decent guy and a great footballer, which can only bring positive attention to MLS. Two, the near-insolvent AC St. Louis fired Claude Anelka, brother of "Le Sulke," Nicolas Anelka, and a man once rated by a British newspaper as one of the worst coaches to ever live on God's green Earth. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5302597 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5302597 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 10:54:00 EDT With the World Cup break over and three weeks rest, Toronto FC looked more like the team from March rather than the one from May. Overall it was a very ugly draw against a significantly short-handed Los Angeles Galaxy. No doubt head coach Preki, and hopefully the players, will be aggrieved they let a good opportunity to get three points at home slip through their fingers. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5295498 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5295498 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:55:00 EDT CONCACAF and CONMEBOL prospered during the group stages in South Africa but FIFA has decided to maintain the status quo for its 2014 World Cup continental allotments. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5295496 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5295496 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:55:00 EDT When the 2009 incarnation of Toronto FC failed to make the playoffs for the third consecutive year, most pundits identified four glaring areas in which the club needed improvement. Firstly, the team needed a Head Coach who could shore up the defensive problems that plagued the team and who could give the team a real identity. Thus far, Preki has come exactly as advertised and looks to have turned the team into a cohesive unit that is very difficult to play against. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5295495 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5295495 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:54:00 EDT Toronto went into this match after almost three weeks off due to the World Cup break. In a week in which Toronto experienced both an earthquake and riots in downtown Hogtown due to the G20 Conference, the Reds were hoping to generate some fireworks of their own against the visiting Los Angeles Galaxy. Podcast and Postgame Report. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5293079 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5293079 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 01:15:00 EDT After two weeks of no MLS, no Toronto FC, (and even no Red Patch Boys forum!) the timing of a home game to get your fix couldn’t come any sooner. Sitting on a 0-0 draw against an overmatched Kansas City on June 5, supporters are chomping at the bit to see their side again, and hopefully put one in the back of the net this time. Normally this would not be the case, but with Landon Donovan and Edson Buddle away at the World Cup, the LA Galaxy are the perfect opponent for TFC to reestablish their form from May and gain confidence into July where most of the match-ups should favour the Reds. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5286439 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5286439 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 22:01:00 EDT It was late, it was last-gasp, it was Landon Donovan. With mere seconds to spare the much-maligned American talisman came up with the goal to keep the American World Cup dream alive. A 1-0 win for the Americans over a stubborn Algerian side ensured that the US would join their CONCACAF rivals Mexico in the tournament’s sweet sixteen. Mexico and the United States have ensured that two of CONCACAF’s three World Cup entrants will progress beyond the group stages. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5283794 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5283794 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 21:54:00 EDT For a Toronto FC fan, the World Cup is a mixed blessing: yes, we get a month of international footie. But we also get weeks without our club seeing the pitch. When you're a hardcore fan who follows his club with slavish, orthodox zeal, it's kind of like a dope addict being taken off the spike for a day or two, or an evangelical who misses church on Sunday: there's a nagging feeling of disconnection when there's no news. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5281397 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5281397 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 22:36:00 EDT It was announced Monday afternoon that Toronto FC sent midfielder and 2009 #2 overall draft pick, Sam Cronin to the San Jose Earthquakes for allocation money. It was a move that had been speculated for almost two weeks, when Cronin was not present at practice following the Kansas City match on June 5. This should not be an overly surprising move as there had been rumours in pre-season that Cronin was available for a trade. After lukewarm performances early in the season, it appeared the writing was on the wall, clear that he was not in favour with Preki, and that it was only a matter of time before Cronin would leave the club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5280571 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5280571 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:51:00 EDT When the 2010 MLS campaign kicked off in March, it was commonly believed that TFC’s sophomore players were going to have to improve upon their successful rookie seasons if the Reds were going to have any chance of making the playoffs for the first time. The team did not have a first round pick at the 2010 MLS SuperDraft and a number of the team’s key veteran players left the team over the offseason and during the preseason. Many observers felt that if Toronto was going have a successful year it was going to need big seasons from Stefan Frei, Sam Cronin, O’Brian White and Emmanuel Gomez. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5263094 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5263094 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 22:06:00 EDT In this interview, Simon and Red Nation discuss Soccernomics, his thoughts on the current World Cup in South Africa and Canada’s chances for making the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5260011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5260011 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 02:17:00 EDT It's a tribute of sorts to the faith TFC fans are showing in head coach Preki that reports suggesting Sam Cronin has been traded aren't causing a bigger fuss. After all, Cronin came out of 2008's draft widely regarded as the player most able to step right into MLS, along with DC's Chris Pontius. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5252329 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5252329 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 23:33:00 EDT With Major League Soccer suspending league play for two weeks due to the World Cup, several clubs are fortunate enough to use the timing of the tournament to bring in players on trial for when play resumes the weekend of June 26. Toronto FC are one such team where over the last week it has been confirmed that Scarborough developed Andrew Ornoch is currently on trial with the club. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5248112 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5248112 Sun, 13 Jun 2010 20:24:00 EDT As the U.S. Men’s National Team prepares for their opening 2010 World Cup match against England on Saturday, many Canadians will find themselves torn between an emotional and natural instinct to root against our neighbours to the south and a realization that soccer in our country might possibly benefit from a strong showing by the men in the red, white and blue. Just as the Canadian economy benefits when the U.S. economy is booming, soccer at both the professional and grassroots levels in Canada will likely benefit from the ever increasing profile for the sport in North America that will result from a strong showing by the U.S. team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5238000 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5238000 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 23:17:00 EDT In this interview, Red Nation and Declan discuss his book The Fix, the possibility of match-fixing in the MLS and at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, his thoughts on the progress that has been in fighting match-fixing and the global nature of the criminal organizations behind the phenomenon that threatens the beautiful game. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5233659 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5233659 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:38:00 EDT With the 19th FIFA World Cup soon to kick off and the tournament participants having completed their final warmup matches, millions of prognosticators all around the world are actively debating who the ultimate tournament winner will be in bars and workplaces and on discussion forums and social media platforms. The men that make up Toronto FC have played professional football all around the world and many have competed at the International level with national teams of their own. At the same time, they are also, first and foremost, fans of the beautiful game and their own predictions are coloured by not only their professional expertise, but also their own fandom that has developed as they have watched the tournament since they were young boys. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5228636 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5228636 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 22:08:00 EDT The mood was somber. Propped around bar stools, my soccer buds had let the question hang in the air for a few seconds. "Seriously? So the hypothetical is that we get to champions league, we beat some Mexican team in the final and go to the Club World Cup....." asked Dave, who is a Whitecaps fan from the days when Bobby Lenarduzzi's short shorts seemed appropriate. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5217792 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5217792 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 22:20:00 EDT As long as the Vancouver Whitecaps continue to pick up the points, how they get them doesn't really matter. Not for the first time this season, the Vancouver Whitecaps showed they're pretty much set on the defensive side of the field and at least a few questions on the other. Martin Nash converted a first half penalty and Vancouver held on for a 1-0 win over the visiting Tampa Bay Rowdies at a damp Swangard Stadium. With the result, Vancouver has only given up six goals in the last ten games in all competitions but has only scored seven times. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5216072 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5216072 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 09:35:00 EDT Postgame Report and Podcast: Toronto went into their final match before the World Cup break looking to maintain the winning form that the team has developed over the last several weeks, as well as aiming to maintain their perfect record at home. The Kansas Wizards arrived at BMO Field having not won since April and coming off a humiliating defeat to Real Salt Lake last week. After winning their first two matches to open the 2010 MLS campaign, the Wizards had gone seven games without a win and were desperately looking to get something from this match. With TFC playing arguably the best soccer in their four year existence and the Wizards also missing key players in Roger Espinoza and Davy Arnaud, this looked to be a match that was the Reds to lose. Hamilton-born Teal Bunbury made his professional debut at BMO Field and gritty Toronto midfielder Martin Saric sat this one out due to suspension after picking up his fifth yellow card last week against San Jose. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5213023 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5213023 Sat, 05 Jun 2010 22:15:00 EDT Fresh off hoisting the Voyageurs Cup, Toronto FC must quickly come down to earth and put in one more solid performance Saturday afternoon against the Kansas City Wizards before heading into the World Cup break. These are two teams that are on very opposite trajectories - almost exactly so. Kansas City got off to a flying start, but now are in the midst of a seven game winless streak, with no victories on the road. Toronto looked abysmal in the first month of the season, but in the last 3-4 weeks have only surrendered two goals and remain undefeated at BMO Field. With all their key players fit, confident and looking disciplined, coupled with the reeling Wizards, as long as Toronto sticks to the gameplan that we’ve seen this past month, the Reds are looking at another three home points going into the break. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5208346 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5208346 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 05:49:00 EDT Inside the MLS: Teal Bunbury In this interview, Teal and Red Nation discuss his rookie MLS season, the Wizards current winless streak, his transition from the college game to the professional level and his upcoming first match against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Teal Bunbury is a rookie forward with the Kansas City Wizards. He was drafted by the Wizards with the fourth overall pick in the 2010 MLS SuperDraft and recently scored his first goal as a professional in a U.S. Open Cup match against the Colorado Rapids. Following a distinguished college soccer career at the University of Akron, Teal was named the winner of the prestigious 2009 Hermann Trophy, the annual award given to the top male player in NCAA Division I soccer. At the international level, he has represented Canada at the U-17 and U-20 levels. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5204932 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5204932 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 03:26:00 EDT Toronto 0 - Vancouver 0 Postgame Report and Podcast Toronto FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps met today on a very rainy Wednesday evening to close out the 2010 Nutrilite Canadian Championship. With TFC having already won the tournament, this game essentially represented an exhibition match and likely a welcome one for Toronto FC Head Coach Preki. After an extremely busy last several weeks for TFC, Vancouver’s recent draw against the Montreal Impact allowed him to sit back and rest a number of his regular starters. It also allowed Toronto FC supporters to get a closer look at 3rd string keeper Milos Kocic and a number of players from the Toronto FC Academy. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5204752 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5204752 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 01:27:00 EDT The Fix is a disillusioning book. The back cover perfectly sums it up by stating: The Explosive and Controversial Expose of Match-Fixing in Professional Soccer: Get Ready to Forever Change the Way You Think and Feel about Professional Sports. When I was a few chapters in I told a friend that I was questioning whether I would still love football once I had completed the book. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5201071 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5201071 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 22:25:00 EDT Toronto FC continue their upward climb in the table, earning their first road win of the season, defeating the San Jose Earthquakes 3-1 at Buck Shaw Stadium Saturday night. It was an impressive performance for the Reds who handed San Jose their first loss at home since their opener against Real Salt Lake and ended Joe Cannon’s clean sheet streak that was over 360 minutes. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5195417 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5195417 Sun, 30 May 2010 13:19:00 EDT Canada netted a last minute goal to come away with a confidence boosting 1-1 draw with Venezuela. After being handled easily 5-0 by Argentina on Monday night, it was thought that fellow South American contender Venezuela would also have too much quality for Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5192707 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5192707 Sun, 30 May 2010 01:21:00 EDT Toronto FC once again head back out to the west coast to take on one of the top teams in the league, the San Jose Earthquakes. On their last league match out west, Toronto was able to keep the top scorer and top team, the Los Angeles Galaxy, off the scoresheet for a 0-0 draw. San Jose is off to their best start since rejoining the league in 2008, however, their recent run of form, save for their thrashing of New York, can be qualified with their opponents having the lion’s share of shots and scoring chances. Joe Cannon has been strong in net, but with Toronto’s form coming together so strong over the last three weeks, and key players Nana Attakora and Julian De Guzman back in the line-up, the Reds are in a key position to come away with their first road win of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5187393 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5187393 Thu, 27 May 2010 22:50:00 EDT With the Men’s Canadian National Team currently in South America preparing for their next friendly match against Venezuela, Head Coach Stephen Hart has had to contend with training and playing without several of the team's key players. It's hard to speculate about the effect the presence of experienced veterans like Julian De Guzman, Atiba Hutchinson and Kevin McKenna might have had in Canada's recent 5-0 loss to Argentina in Buenos Aires, but it is safe to assume that Hart would have preferred to have them on the pitch. Another recent mainstay that the Canadian skipper had to play without was Dejan Jakovic of D.C. United, who is currently injured with a fractured clavicle. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5187392 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5187392 Thu, 27 May 2010 22:49:00 EDT Toronto FC were awarded their second consecutive Nutrilite Canadian Championship as the Vancouver Whitecaps failed to win in Montreal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5184337 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5184337 Wed, 26 May 2010 23:39:00 EDT Well, if there was ever a time when a whooping didn’t hurt as bad, I guess it was this one. For those of you who missed it, I’ll sum it up. Canada couldn’t hold onto the ball terribly well, Argentina took advantage and put five goals past the red and white. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5178468 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5178468 Tue, 25 May 2010 00:37:00 EDT In an ideal world, we would eventually discover that Francesco Machio was a plant, some guy hired by Major League Soccer to "vent" after Juventus' loss to New York Red Bulls. If you haven't seen Machio's rant yet, in which the Jersey-by-way-of-Brooklynite laments his team's 3-1 loss at Red Bull Arena, you can check it out here. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5178467 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5178467 Tue, 25 May 2010 00:36:00 EDT Toronto FC 1 – New England Revolution 0 Toronto FC put in a very workman-like performance to pull out the 1-0 victory over New England this past weekend. It was not pretty for the majority of the match and the midfield particularly moving forward were very ineffective save for early on in the second half. However, the back line performed well above expectations considering who were given the start. Nick Garcia and Raivis Hscanovics especially were not directly responsible for any goals and Amadou Sanyang put in almost a perfect game with the responsibility to mark out Shalrie Joseph. Offensively it was not an exciting game at all, but defensively Toronto should once again be applauded for locking it down and not collapsing like we have seen before in the past. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5175616 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5175616 Mon, 24 May 2010 01:05:00 EDT Jaime Peters Canadian defender/midfielder Jaime Peters has evolved from being an attack minded player to being one who can be thrown into just about any positions. Red Nation Online's Gavin Day spoke with Peters about where he would prefer to play as well as get his thoughts on Canada's high-profile friendly with Argentina. Adam Straith 19 year old defender Adam Straith could pick up his first cap for Canada when the team takes on powerhouses Argentina in Buenos Aires on Monday, May 24th 2010. Red Nation Online's Gavin Day spoke with Straith about potentially lining up against some of the biggest names in the game and how he got to where he is now. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5174573 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5174573 Sun, 23 May 2010 14:38:00 EDT Toronto 1 New England 0 Toronto FC returned home to BMO Field after grabbing two critical points on the road, one in the league and one in the Nutrilite Cup, as well as two clean sheets. After the match in Vancouver this past Wednesday night, it was becoming clear by the level of play and overall performance that Toronto was starting to feel the wear from playing several mid-week games as well as having to travel from coast to coast. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5173421 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5173421 Sun, 23 May 2010 01:07:00 EDT Red Nation speaks to Paul Stalteri and Stephen Hart in Argentina before the big friendly on Monday. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5173420 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5173420 Sun, 23 May 2010 01:05:00 EDT When Canadian head coach Stephen Hart unveiled his roster for Canada’s brief South American tour, it contained familiar names, a few young players But when many people saw the name Haidar Al-Shaibani as one of three goalkeepers along with Josh Wagenaar and veteran Pat Onstad, they quite simply didn’t know who he was. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5171324 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5171324 Sat, 22 May 2010 04:49:00 EDT Featured: Pat Onstad, Rob Friend http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5171323 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5171323 Sat, 22 May 2010 04:48:00 EDT When team Canada lines up against Argentina on Monday, they’ll be facing a team that won’t just be going through the motions, they’ll be facing a team that has quite a lot to prove. Argentina and head coach Diego Maradona faced a media backlash after struggling through South American World Cup qualifying. They did just make it in with the final automatic spot in the region, but they still have many questions to answer. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5164040 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5164040 Wed, 19 May 2010 22:35:00 EDT With apologies to Ol' Blue Eyes, if Thierry Henry can make it there, MLS can make it anywhere. It's up to you, New York, New York. Understand something: outside of the debate over his efficacy, age, deadly dribbling ability or goal-scoring prowess, Thierry Henry's move to Major League Soccer is the most important signing to date in the league's history. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5161070 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5161070 Tue, 18 May 2010 22:31:00 EDT Toronto stays on the West Coast after earning an impressive road draw against the MLS best Los Angeles Galaxy. Wednesday night the Reds match up against their biggest Nutrilite Cup foe, the Vancouver Whitecaps, in a game that could ultimately decide the winner of the 2010 Cup. Toronto has come into form at just the right time, while Vancouver hasn’t shifted out of third gear despite a lengthy preseason and sitting in a good spot in the USSF 2. Five goals in seven games is something that, even at home, is not the kind of scoring rate the Whitecaps can feel confident about against a TFC side whose defending is coming together and has one of the hottest keepers in MLS. With all hands expected to be on deck for Toronto, the Cup will likely be within their grasp. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5161069 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5161069 Tue, 18 May 2010 22:31:00 EDT With most Canadian Internationals now on the summer break, there are but a handful of Canadians still finishing up their season and at the start of their 2010 campaign. It is unfortunate that after securing himself as a key member of the Danish side Nordsjaelland, midfielder Patrice Bernier was not fit to participate in their 2009/10 Danish Cup victory over Midtjylland. Josh Simpson finished off his 2009/10 campaign with a draw as Turkish club Manisaspor have secured themselves a spot in the Turkish Super Lig for next season, but there were rumours most of the season that Simpson could possibly move up to top side Fenerbahce. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5147682 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5147682 Sun, 16 May 2010 19:14:00 EDT Toronto FC picked up right where they left off, carrying over their form from their last two games to earn a critical point away from home against the Los Angeles Galaxy. Los Angeles boasted the stingiest defence and the top scorer in the league, and although Toronto were unable to put one past the keeper, Nana Attakora and Adrian Cann were more than game in containing the likes of Edson Buddle and Landon Donovan. Chad Barrett has more than stepped up his game over the last few weeks and is starting to look like the striker the team has needed for the last three seasons. It looked as though Los Angeles was about to crack through Toronto’s defence down the stretch, as the Reds are beginning to look a bit battle weary, but they held on thanks to another superb outing from Stefan Frei. Here is the breakdown of the starting XI with current game and (season average). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5147681 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5147681 Sun, 16 May 2010 19:12:00 EDT Toronto FC went into this match at the Home Depot Center coming off two convincing wins against the Chicago Fire and the Montreal Impact and looking to gain their first road points on the young MLS season. At the same time, this game presented probably the most difficult fixture on TFC’s entire 2010 schedule. With an unbeaten record and having only conceded 2 goals thus far, the Galaxy went into this match as heavy favourites. With Edson Buddle leading the league in goal scoring and Landon Donovan the league’s assists leader, Toronto knew they were going to have their hands full trying to shut down the most dangerous attacking duo in the MLS and that task got even harder with the announcement just before kickoff that Toronto holding midfielder was out of the lineup with a hamstring injury. The Galaxy were missing a star of their own with keeper Donovan Ricketts out with an injury picked up in training and backup keeper Josh Saunders getting his first start of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5146933 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5146933 Sun, 16 May 2010 11:05:00 EDT Toronto FC travel to the west coast to take on the juggernaut that is the Los Angeles Galaxy. Rarely is that term accurately applied in MLS, a league that does not often have a team break away from even the top clubs, but in this instance it most definitely fits the description. Los Angeles are off to one of the best starts in MLS history, undefeated and thus far only giving up two goals, and there looks to be no reason for their form to falter at home Saturday night. Toronto’s Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde results are likely to continue as this is not the opponent to reverse their road form in the league. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5140868 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5140868 Thu, 13 May 2010 22:11:00 EDT Toronto FC put forth a Spartan-like performance earning their first road victory of the year, putting themselves one step closer to repeating as Nutrilite Cup champions and putting the nail in the coffin for the Montreal Impact. As has been the case all season long, the usual suspects performed, and as the year progresses that is now starting to include the name Chad Barrett who if he can continue to finish chances will become and all around threat for the Reds. Here is the breakdown of the starting XI with current game and (season average). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5140863 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5140863 Thu, 13 May 2010 22:10:00 EDT Both Toronto FC and the Montreal Impact went into this match knowing exactly what they had to do. A win by TFC would put the club in the driver's seat as they endeavour to defend their title as Canadian Champions. The Reds wanted all three points and they ideally want to grab them while still leaving something in the tank for a very difficult match against the league leading Los Angeles Galaxy on Saturday evening. The Impact needed to win to retain any hope of winning the Canadian championship after losing and drawing their first two matches in the competition. Toronto Head Coach Preki continued to shuffle his cards and made six changes to the starting lineup that decimated the Chicago Fire last weekend. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5138594 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5138594 Wed, 12 May 2010 23:09:00 EDT The Good News: O'Brian White has some mad skills. The bad news: .... OK, I admit to being stumped. After TFC's win over Chicago, there were so many reasons for optimism, the usual process of immediately honing in on a negative to try and "fix" it -- in typically arrogant journalist style -- eluded me completely. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5135790 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5135790 Tue, 11 May 2010 23:36:00 EDT Toronto FC travel back to the scene of the crime from 2009 in the return fixture against the Montreal Impact in this year’s Nutrilite Cup. Having outperformed Montreal in their match at BMO Field handily, it is up to the Impact to put in the effort to erase last year’s debacle, get themselves back in contention for the Cup and finally earn a win against the Reds. Toronto has not been strong away from home, but their current stretch of form when all hands are on deck is impressive, and if the starting line-up consists of the likes of De Rosario, De Guzman, Attakora and Cann, TFC will be one game closer to winning back-to-back Nutrilite Cups. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5135789 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5135789 Tue, 11 May 2010 23:35:00 EDT Oh, what a difference a month makes! Thirty days ago Toronto FC had limped through the first two games of the 2010 season and were getting ready to take their 0-2 record into their home opener against the Philadelphia Union. While most of the media coverage at the time centered on the club's poor start and the inadequacy of the team's roster, two items of news were released a month ago that did not immediately seem very important to club supporters and analysts. Toronto FC striker Chad Barrett was continuing his rehab towards returning to active duty and Adrian Cann was signed by the club after a couple of weeks of negotiations. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5135788 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5135788 Tue, 11 May 2010 23:34:00 EDT As the names of the players called to represent the Men’s Canadian National Team at their upcoming friendlies against Argentina and Venezuela start to seep out, the news that 20 year old defender Adam Straith has been called up to the senior squad won’t be a surprise to those that follow the national team setup closely. While he does not get the same amount of Canadian media coverage as a player like Nana Attakora does due to the fact that he plies his trade in Germany with Energie Cottbus, the Victoria B.C. native is coming off a very impressive campaign with the Bundesliga 2 side and is a player who could figure prominently in the Canadian setup as the team rebuilds with any eye towards qualification for the 2014 World Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5133426 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5133426 Mon, 10 May 2010 22:22:00 EDT It’s almost a wrap for most Canadians playing in Europe. With England now finishing their year a week after the Eredivisie, the Bundesliga season has now ended as well. All Canadians are clear from relegation battles and the only player to win silverware thus far is FC Copenhagen’s Atiba Hutchinson, who clinched the Danish Superliga on Wednesday night. It will be an interesting offseason for the likes of David Edgar, Kevin McKenna, Marcel De Jong and Josh Simpson, who have all had rumours follow them through the year of possible transfers. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5131233 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5131233 Mon, 10 May 2010 00:01:00 EDT An overall outstanding performance for TFC, dispatching one of the Eastern Conference favourites, the Chicago Fire, 4-1 Saturday afternoon at BMO Field. After the first 20 minutes of caginess, the Nick LaBrocca goal opened up the game and paved the way for a solid team performance for all involved. This match should be the precedent for the likes of LaBrocca, Chad Barrett and O’Brien White to become integral parts of the offence. A solid defensive outing kept an, on paper, superior attacking side at bay and locked it down to keep the Reds unbeaten at home. Here is the breakdown of the starting XI with current game and (season average). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5131232 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5131232 Mon, 10 May 2010 00:01:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps picked up their second home draw in a week at home. After coming from behind to tie Montreal 1-1 in the Nutrilite Canadian Championships, the Whitecaps followed that up Saturday with a 0-0 draw to Crystal Palace Baltimore. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5130905 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5130905 Sun, 09 May 2010 19:42:00 EDT Toronto FC returned to the friendly confines of BMO Field after a disappointing result on the road against the Real Salt Lake. With the Reds only two league wins coming at home, Toronto went into this match fully rested and with what is looking like it is Preki’s “A” starting eleven. Postgame report and podcast. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5129407 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5129407 Sat, 08 May 2010 21:35:00 EDT Toronto FC return to the friendly confines of BMO Field after another poor road showing last weekend in Salt Lake City. The Reds take on Eastern Conference heavyweights Chicago Fire, who had the best road form in 2009 and look to continue it in 2010. Toronto is undefeated at home so far this year with three wins. However, each victory comes with an asteric beside it - at home, TFC have yet to get through 90 minutes against either 11 men or a line-up boasting all of it’s key players. This Saturday will be their first true test at BMO against a Chicago team that player for player overmatches the Reds and TFC will likely need similar intervention in the form of a red card or multiple key players resting to come away with all three points. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5125193 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5125193 Fri, 07 May 2010 01:57:00 EDT Inside the MLS: Justin Mapp In this interview, Justin and Red Nation discuss his experiences playing with Chicago, the many changes that the Fire went through in the offseason, the 2010 MLS campaign and Chicago's upcoming match against Toronto FC. Justin Mapp is a playmaking midfielder with the Chicago Fire. He was drafted by D.C. United with the fourth overall pick in the 2002 MLS SuperDraft, but played only 28 minutes for DC in his first year as a professional. The Chicago Fire acquired Mapp before the 2003 season and he has been an important player for the squad since then, helping them to the 2003 U.S. Open Cup. At the international level, he has been capped 5 times by the U.S. Men's National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5125182 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5125182 Fri, 07 May 2010 01:55:00 EDT Two games into their Nutrilite Canadian Championship journey, the Montreal Impact have had an eventful campaign to say the very least. Their notable statistics halfway through their attempt to regain the title read like this: two games, one point, one goal and three red cards. A week after Roberto Brown was send off for punching TFC’s Nick Garcia, the Impact doubled that effort at Swangard Stadium against the Vancouver Whitecaps. The two clubs played to a 1-1 draw with the Impact having two players sent off in the process in front of 4,325 spectators in Burnaby. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5124150 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5124150 Thu, 06 May 2010 14:01:00 EDT In his home country of Trinidad, Kerry Baptiste is a sports hero. Not only has he broken goal scoring records, he's also been named the country's "Sports Personality of the year." Numbers like 48 goals in a season, and 67 goals in 87 total appearances for a club, will lead to that sort of thing. So will scoring both goals in a 2-2 draw against Mexico in Concacaf qualifiers. But it's still the Trinidadian league. So would Baptise be a good bet for TFC? A little intuition and a look at his career suggests it would. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5120326 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5120326 Wed, 05 May 2010 00:58:00 EDT One of the strangest developments in the early going of Toronto FC’s 2010 campaign has been the almost complete disappearance of sophomore midfielder Sam Cronin. Now I know that after the Ali Gerba and Chris Cummins interviews and the recent rotation debacle against Real Salt Lake nothing should really surprise me. I should just sit back, watch things unfold and enjoy Desperate Housewives … I mean Toronto FC. But try as I might I just cannot understand how Cronin has gone from a 2009 mainstay who started 26 games to a player who doesn’t even get the call ahead of Joseph Nane when Preki fielded his “B Team” last Saturday. The Ali Gerba-gate didn’t make much sense to me given the trouble the team has had putting the ball in the back of the net, but he did have a reputation as the type of player that Preki doesn't like I can accept that Cummins may or may not be a little bit bitter. And the trade of Marvell Wynne and his propensity to be perpetually out of position was something that I actually expected when Preki took over the reins of Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5120233 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5120233 Tue, 04 May 2010 23:57:00 EDT In August, West Bromwich Albion will be making their return to the English Premier League after two years in the Coca-Cola Championship. Hoping to make a breakthrough in the squad is 21 year-old Marcus Haber. The Vancouver native will be starting his first full season with the club after joining The Baggies in January; not long after winning the USL 1st Division Rookie of the Year Award as a member of the Vancouver Whitecaps. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5117784 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5117784 Mon, 03 May 2010 22:40:00 EDT As most season’s in Europe are now coming to an end, it’s now clear that most Canadians in relegations battles have come clear after this past weekend. Simeon Jackson’s GIllingham was in a position to go right back down to League 2, but their 2-1 victory over Southampton has all but secured them in League 1. Marcel De Jong’s Roda JC had an impressive finish to the 09/10 campaign winning seven of their last ten. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5115100 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5115100 Sun, 02 May 2010 23:30:00 EDT The scoreline is not indicative of how this match played out at Rio Tinto Stadium this past Saturday night. Real Salt Lake comfortably were handling Toronto until they conceded a penalty late to make the game look much closer than it actually was. Preki’s strategy to rest De Guzman and De Rosario resulted in confirming that this side is so completely unbalanced that when De Ro specifically is out of the line up, TFC legitimately are hopeless in creating an attack. Stefan Frei once again kept his team in the game, and continues to be let down by a backline that at best is only half sorted out. Here is the breakdown of the starting XI with current game and (season average). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5115099 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5115099 Sun, 02 May 2010 23:29:00 EDT Real Salt Lake 2 Toronto 1 With the announcement of the starting eleven for this match, many people were wondering if Preki was waving the white flag even before the opening whistle. With Dwayne De Rosario, O’Brian White and Julian De Guzman all starting this match on the bench, the Reds went up against the reigning MLS Champions without the only players who had scored this year and without their designated player in the middle of the midfield. With keeper Stefan Frei coming off two shutouts and a starting eleven comprised mainly of defensive players, Preki might have made the strategic decision to try and steal a draw at Rio Tinto Stadium. With Real Salt Lake only having lost twice at Rio Tinto since the stadium opened in 2008, Preki’s gamble might have been a very prudent one. In fact, if Toronto could find themselves in a position to steal a win late in this match, De Rosario and White would be fresh and rested and ready to come on as substitutes. And Preki continued to show that he had no qualms about defying the expectations of TFC supporters with his decision to give Chad Barrett the captain’s armband at the commencement of this match. With Real Salt Lake’s main offensive threat Javier Morales out, this match could have become a battle between keepers Frei and MLS Championship standout Nick Rimando. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5113115 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5113115 Sat, 01 May 2010 23:54:00 EDT One question: if a Division 2 Montreal versus Division 1 Toronto tilt can result in a) a TKO combination; b) 22 stitches to a defender, and; c) seven cards ... what does this rivalry stand to look like when both teams are in MLS? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5110176 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5110176 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 15:12:00 EDT TFC get off on the right foot in the 2010 Nutrilight Cup by defeating the Montreal Impact 2-0 at BMO Field. These two goals will go a long way in building the necessary goal difference that Toronto could not last year. Although Montreal rarely pressured TFC, it should be noted that given the fact the Impact were down to ten men, Toronto certainly did not boss the game. Even with a softer starting XI than the match against Seattle, one would have expected more domination, and this should be noted as the Reds will be up against much more formidable opponents in the coming weeks. Here is the breakdown of the starting XI with current game and (season average). http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5109209 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5109209 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 07:49:00 EDT anadian midfielder Will Johnson is a member of the 2009 MLS Cup champion Real Salt Lake team. After stints playing in the Netherlands and with the Chicago Fire, Johnson joined Real Salt Lake in 2008 and immediately established himself as a key part of the team’s midfield. In 2009, he made his first appearance at an MLS All Star Game, going up against English Premier League side Everton. At the international level, Johnson has been capped 10 times by the Men’s Canadian National Team. In this interview, Will and Red Nation discuss his current campaign with Real Salt Lake, winning the 2009 MLS Cup, the Men’s Canadian National Team and Real’s upcoming match against Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5108686 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5108686 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 02:27:00 EDT The 2010 Nutrilite Cup kicked off today with the Montreal Impact taking on Toronto FC in Toronto in a very testy and physical encounter at BMO Field. The late great comedian Rodney Dangerfield once joked that he went to a boxing match and a hockey game broke out. This match did have elements reminiscent of a meeting between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens, not to mention a right hook from straight out of a boxing ring. By the time the referee would blow the final whistle, he had handed out six yellow cards and a red card. And all of that was achieved without Toronto midfielder Martin Saric stepping on the pitch. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5106009 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5106009 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:41:00 EDT After taking out the Seattle Sounders 2-0 this past Sunday, Toronto FC look to build momentum and no better match-up than the closest thing there is to a derby by taking on the Montreal Impact at BMO Field Wednesday night. The 2010 Nutrilite Cup starts where it ended off, with the two teams who decided last year’s champion, TFC. Over the first two years of the tournament, Toronto has never lost to Montreal and has outscored them 9-2, which is highlighted by the final game from last year, which the Reds won 6-1. Toronto showed both at home and on the road to be the superior side and should be able to carry this form in the first match this year. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5103247 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5103247 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:52:00 EDT There is a death with dignity, and then there is the polar alternative: a flaming stake or public hanging, with much discussion of broad impact and long-term recriminations. If you plan a career in La Cosa Nostra, 14th century French military tactics or daredevil stunt driving, perhaps number two would seem apropos. But football managers should leave as many bridges intact as possible. And if Mo Johnston plans to stay in football management, he'd be wise to see the gaping chasm in the track up ahead and jump off the train right now. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5100879 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5100879 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:53:00 EDT XI out of 10 is a weekly column tracking players' performances throughout the season. Based on a scale of 1-10, each player starts off with a 5 and from this point moves in increments of .5 depending on how positive or negative their play is. Please feel free to add your own thoughts of how the players fared in their most recent game! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5100878 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5100878 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:53:00 EDT For the first time, the Reds defeat the Seattle Sounders 2-0 at BMO Field. Spark and Stephe are back from the field after witnessing what was the first decent game of football for TFC this season. Dwayne De Rosario nets the team's first goal from open play, while O'Brien White becomes the first OTHER than De Ro to put one between the sticks. It felt good to give it to the Sounders after they humiliated TFC in last season's home opener. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098638 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098638 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 05:39:00 EDT A struggling Toronto FC went into this match against a Seattle Sounders club that is very much the on the field success that Toronto supporters wish the Reds were. After winning the U.S. Open Cup and making the playoffs in their inaugural season last year, the Sounders went into this match in second spot in the Western Conference and coming off an impressive win against Dallas last Thursday. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098596 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098596 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 05:27:00 EDT Toronto FC’s 2-0 defeat of the Seattle Sounders on Sunday afternoon was not only a marquee meeting between Major League Soccer’s two most popular teams, it also marked the first meeting ever between two of the league’s designated players. With only five clubs currently taking advantage of the option to add a DP to their roster, head to head matches with designated players going head to head are still a relatively rare occurrence. And while Toronto-born star Julian De Guzman got the best of Swedish star Freddie Ljungberg on this occasion, the Sounder midfielder would like nothing more than to go up against other designated players more often. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098595 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098595 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 05:26:00 EDT As most European leagues are down to their last few weeks, it looks as though all the Canadians playing overseas will avoid relegation and stay in their respective divisions. Simeon Jackson’s Gillingham side will have to come away with a win in their next two games to ensure remaining in England’s League One after losing 2-0 to Norwich this past weekend. The one side that has all but won their league, Atiba Hutchinson’s FC Copenhagen have let him sign on with Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven this week. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond: http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098594 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098594 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 05:26:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps maintained an unbeaten start to their USSL Division Two season with a comfortable 1-0 win over AC St. Louis. In three games this season, Vancouver has two wins and a draw and are yet to allow a goal. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098593 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5098593 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 05:25:00 EDT With most of the week spent putting Sunday’s loss behind them, Toronto FC will need to eliminate mental mistakes if they are to get anything out this weekend’s clash with the Seattle Sounders. If there ever were two polar opposite franchises and fortunes, this is it. When assessing this match, the operative words are: balance and unity. Specifically on the field, you have TFC who have all their goals scored by one player, Dwayne De Rosario, and Seattle whose seven goals have come from five different players. The Sounders have created a balanced squad who can score from many different areas of the pitch, and Toronto who thus far have only scored from set pieces. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5094112 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5094112 Fri, 23 Apr 2010 21:08:00 EDT At a time when supporter morale is ebbing low, nerves are frayed and Toronto footie fanatics find themselves praying to the spirits of Eusebio and Sir Stan, there is always the next game to look forward to. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5091767 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5091767 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 23:04:00 EDT It was reported Thursday on the PSV club site that the Eindhoven club has signed Atiba Hutchinson of FC Copenhagen on a free transfer. After spending five seasons with the Danish side, there had been speculation since the new year that Hutchinson would be leaving at the end of the season, with many linking him to Blackburn or Stoke City. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5091765 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5091765 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 23:04:00 EDT Inside the MLS: Tyrone Marshall Veteran Seattle Sounders defender Tyrone Marshall is a two-time MLS All-Star and a two-time MLS Cup champion. After stints as a key member of the Miami Fusion, Los Angeles Galaxy and Toronto FC, Marshall joined Seattle for their inaugural season and immediately established himself as an important leader on the team’s back line. At the international level, he has been capped 69 times by the Jamaican National Team. In this interview, Tyrone and Red Nation discuss his experiences playing with Seattle, his transition from Toronto FC to the Sounders, the Jamaican National Team and going up against Canada in CONCACAF competition. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5089546 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5089546 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 03:52:00 EDT A point on the road was within grasp, but errors in organization and communication let down the Reds and once again underlines a gutted roster that is undermanned and unfamiliar with one another. A few instances of creativity do not change the fact that from open play TFC have very little to offer and until something changes in terms of players or tactics, will have to rely on set pieces to score. Here is the breakdown of the starting XI. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5083430 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5083430 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 21:37:00 EDT They say in modern business that networking is everything, and it's unfortunately true: the casual observer would be stunned with how frequently the private sector turns profit into mediocrity -- and even outright failure -- because a deal was based on back-slapping and not market research. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5083429 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5083429 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 21:36:00 EDT Since 2007, the Vancouver Whitecaps residency program has been taking young, mostly local players and has given them professional style development in the hopes of churning out the next generation of professionals. Last season especially showed the program’s potential when a number of residency graduates not only made the transition to the senior ranks but also made meaningful contributions. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5080138 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5080138 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:38:00 EDT Toronto arrived at Commerce City, Colorado high off their first victory of the season in their home opener on Thursday. In that match the all Canadian central defense duo of Nana Attakora and Adrian Cann were solid in holding the Philadelphia Union offense in check and the question going into this match was going to be all about how the reconstituted TFC backline would fare against the firepower provided by Colorado's Conor Casey and Omar Cummings, two of the tops strikers in Major League Soccer. Given the fact that Toronto was playing at altitude on only two days rest, a draw in this match would likely feel like a win for the Reds. Once again Toronto would start a different starting eleven from the previous match, as Preki continues to try out new combinations and work some previously injured players back into the team. Sam Cronin made his return to the lineup and Chad Barrett made his first start of the season. Former TFC fullback Marvwell Wynne started at centre back for the Colorado Rapids. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5080137 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5080137 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:37:00 EDT An up and down week for Canadians plying their trade in Europe this past week. It is down to the stretch for sides such as Copenhagen and Brugge looking for the title, while clubs such as FC Cologne and Roda JC have found good form down the wire to secure themselves a spot mid-table. As it stands the only sides that are still in the relegation zone are Simeon Jackson’s Gillingham and Josh Simpson’s Manisaspor. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5080129 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5080129 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:36:00 EDT High off their first win of the season, Toronto FC have only two days rest before jet-setting to the Rocky Mountains to take on the Colorado Rapids. The Reds are still trying to find their feet early on in the season, with existing and new players continuing to get accustomed to one another. Colorado has had a good start to the ’10 campaign, keeping their core players and fielding arguably the best strike partnership in MLS with Conor Casey and Omar Cummings. It will be difficult for TFC to contain not one, but two offensive threats and Stefan Frei will be in for a busy afternoon. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5077923 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5077923 Sat, 17 Apr 2010 17:13:00 EDT Colorado Rapids fullback Marvell Wynne is arguably the fastest player in the MLS and a player whose pace and attacking instincts add an exiting element to any match that he is part of. After three seasons as a fan favourite with Toronto FC, Marvell is now a key player on a Rapids team that will be looking to make the playoffs after narrowly missing in 2009. In this interview, Marvell and Red Nation discuss his recent trade from Toronto to Colorado, how he is fitting in with the Rapids, his years with Toronto FC, the U.S. Men’s National Team and going toe to toe with Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5072971 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5072971 Sat, 17 Apr 2010 04:09:00 EDT The Canadian Soccer Association announced this morning that the Canadian Men’s National Team will play five more international friendlies during 2010. Canada will play against Diego Maradona’s Argentina side in Buenos Aires on May 24th. The team will follow up this match in South America with a fixture against Venezuela in Merida on May 29th. Canada will next play at home during a series of two matches in September. The CSA has confirmed that Canada will play a yet-to-be-announced opponent in Toronto at BMO field on September May 4th. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5068108 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5068108 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 15:45:00 EDT It's a win, Adrian Cann was solid, the grass held up, and O'Brian White woke up. That pretty much summed up Toronto's 2-1 home opener win over Philadelphia Union last night: not much about it was pretty, not much offense, but some tenacious defence and opportunism with a man advantage. It was that kind of game: a little good, a little bad. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5067567 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5067567 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:12:00 EDT Toronto FC went into their fourth Home Opener with the stage set for a beautiful night and a feel good evening for everyone wearing red. Perfect spring weather with plenty of sunshine at kickoff and a nice breeze coming off Lake Ontario made for perfect weather for both the players and attendees. This also marked the first match ever to be played on grass at BMO Field. Story and Podcast http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5066533 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5066533 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 01:05:00 EDT An opportunity to erase New England, a revamped defence, home opener - 12th man, this Thursday night against Philadelphia it is clear this is Toronto FC’s three points to lose. Despite a Sebastian Le Toux hat-trick against DC United last weekend, Philadelphia’s players do not match up with the likes of Julian De Guzman, Dwayne De Rosario and Stefan Frei. However, it will come down to organization, discipline and mental strength and as we saw five days ago, if TFC can keep it together for more than 45 minutes their supporters will be celebrating the first win of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5061876 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5061876 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 06:30:00 EDT In the ideal world, we'd never need to seek consensus. We wouldn't have to wait, for example, for everyone to catch up to the idea that, hardworking guy though he may be, Nick Garcia should retire. But that's not realistic. We all take our own sweet time to come to a conclusion, when we're even allowed to do so. Sometimes, the issue gets so polarized early that people camp out on a side purely for the hell of it. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5058642 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5058642 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:06:00 EDT After several weeks of speculation and sightings at a number of training sessions, Toronto FC announced today that they have signed Canadian international Adrian Cann, who spent the last two seasons playing in the Danish league with Esberg FB. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5058578 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5058578 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 23:29:00 EDT The Vancouver Whitecaps kicked off their year-long farewell to Swangard Stadium with a 2-0 victory over the Minnesota Stars in their opening match of the USSF Division 2 season. Vancouver was in the ascendancy early with both Wed Knight and Ansu Toure pulling the strings from the outside to cause Minnesota some trouble. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5058167 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5058167 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:55:00 EDT As President of the Philadelphia Union, Tom Veit oversees all business matters relating to the club and stadium and has been a driving force as both the MLS and the expansion franchise work to establish top level professional soccer in the fourth-largest market in the United States and repeat the recent success of the Seattle and Toronto franchises. In this interview, Tom and Red Nation discuss a number of topics including the recent launch of the newest franchise in the MLS, how the Union prepared for their inaugural season, the philosophy and vision of the organization and the history of soccer in Philadelphia. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5057974 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5057974 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 16:50:00 EDT XI out of 10 is a weekly column tracking players' performances throughout the season. Based on a scale of 1-10, each player starts off with a 5 and from this point moves in increments of .5 depending on how positive or negative their play is. Please feel free to add your own thoughts of how the players fared in their most recent game! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5057675 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5057675 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 14:22:00 EDT If they’re looking for a good model on how to build a successful expansion MLS franchise, the Vancouver Whitecaps have found one just two and a half hours to the south. The Seattle Sounders have been an on- and off- field success in only their second year of operation. They made the playoffs in their maiden season and regularly have more than 30-thousand in attendance and Vancouver has been taking notes. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5055955 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5055955 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 22:31:00 EDT It was all positive on Easter Monday for Canadians playing matches in the UK. David Edgar is getting plenty of playing time on Championship side Swansea, on loan from Burnley, netting the opening goal against Scunthorpe United. As well Iain Hume scored his third brace of his career putting the nail in the coffin of Peterborough United’s relegation battle, earning the draw 2-2 on this 84th minute goal. The last few weeks of the season will be tight for the likes of Simeon Jackson at Gillingham and Josh Simpson at Manisaspor, who both aren’t quite clear of relegation in their respective leagues. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5055953 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5055953 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 22:30:00 EDT It was a game of two halves. The first, TFC looked organized and a team that had a plan to remain disciplined and follow through on their coach’s instructions. The second, a team exposed for it’s mental frailty and lack of depth. Per usual, Stefan Frei and Dwayne De Rosario were the only consistent bright spots, while Nick Garcia continues to show that he can be directly responsible for giving up goal scoring opportunities game in, game out. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5055949 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5055949 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 22:30:00 EDT Toronto went into Foxborough, Massachusetts with a new team captain in Dwayne De Rosario, a new Assistant General Manager in Jim Brennan and having had two weeks to prepare for their match against the New England Revolution. They also went into this match with a plethora of new faces in the starting eleven and mainstays Julian De Guzman and Sam Cronin on the bench. While the official word from TFC was that De Guzman was sick, the fact that neither he nor Cronin played to their potential in the season opener against Columbus could signify that Head Coach Preki was trying to send a message. If that is the case, even with new signings over the next several days to fill out the roster, he will be hard pressed to find a deserving starting eleven by his standards for the home opener against Philadelphia on Thursday. Aside from a handful of players, the Reds delivered a sub par performance against the Revolution and Preki did not look likely a happy man at the conclusion of this match. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5054254 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5054254 Sat, 10 Apr 2010 23:52:00 EDT Toronto FC heads into Foxborough, Mass. this weekend riding a wave of considerable cynicism, devoid of offence, defensively frail, and the lineup juggled more than a guy's toolkit in a Reno whorehouse. TFC is the underdog. But it's not just optimism when I say TFC can come out of New England with its first three points of the season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5050040 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5050040 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:10:00 EDT Toronto FC, and significantly less supporters than originally thought, head down to the monstrosity that is Gillette Stadium to take on the New England Revolution. Toronto ideally would have been using a two week break to add some depth to their bare bones roster as well as build some harmony among the existing line-up. However, with just over 24hrs to go, there are yet to be any new additions to the bench and their Captain, Jim Brennan retires, unbeknownst to most of the team. Until TFC are able to round out their line-up and bring any kind of stability, it is going to be very difficult for this team to gel and get points, especially away from home. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5049776 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5049776 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 21:06:00 EDT News spread quickly over the last 24hrs, and it was officially announced today at a press conference, that Toronto FC’s captain Jim Brennan is retiring from professional football. The 32 year old cited his physical condition as the main reason for his departure, that throughout preseason and the game in Columbus “I just didn’t feel right”. Brennan came to the conclusion over the last few days that it was time to move on with his health in tact. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5047407 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5047407 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 22:03:00 EDT American fullback Kevin Alston is one of the up and coming players in the MLS, as well as a possible key contributor for the U.S. Men’s National Team in the coming years. After a much lauded MLS rookie season with the New England Revolution, Alston is poised to play a key role in the backline for the Revs as they once again find themselves among the contenders in the Eastern Conference. In this interview, Kevin and Red Nation discuss the current state of the New England Revolution, his college soccer career at Indiana University, the U.S. Men’s National Team, as well as the Revolution’s upcoming match against Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5045011 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5045011 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 01:29:00 EDT few days ago I posted a thread on the Red Patch Boys forum about whether Toronto FC has essentially subcontracted its scouting to First Wave Sports, a company run by agents with numerous ties to the club's personnel. I was curious to see whether, like myself, other fans thought the possibility of a distinctly underprepared and undermanned scouting division might explain the club's ongoing trials in Major League Soccer. The answer was a fairly resounding "yes." http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5042290 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5042290 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 23:06:00 EDT Community. Opportunity. Success. The Canadian Soccer League and Milltown FC set their mandate at the Club’s official launch looking to become an integral part of a soccer revolution in Canada. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5042187 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5042187 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 21:36:00 EDT For the second part of the Simeon Jackson Pro•Files interview with Max Bell, Simeon talks about his National Team experiences and the challenges of losing talent to other nations. RedNation Online was also fortunate enough to speak with Haydn Parry (BBC Sport journalist and Gillingham supporter), author of “Back with a Vengance”, which chronicles Gillingham’s 2009 season that finished with Jackson netting the winning goal to promote the club to England’s League One. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5039816 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5039816 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 00:06:00 EDT As most of the European campaigns are coming down to the wire, several Canadian Internationals are in key matches during the final weeks down the stretch. Jaime Peters is finding himself in the starting XI for Ipswich, who after a horrendous start to the year now find themselves mid-table in the Championship after defeating Reading 2-1. Mike Klukowski’s Club Brugge are all but out of the title race after drawing league leaders Anderlecht 2-2, and Marcel De Jong’s Roda JC find themselves in a run of good form, winning 5-1 against Waalwijk and of their remaining four games, the only team ahead in the table is NAC Breda who are up on them by 3 points. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5039684 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5039684 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 22:57:00 EDT With 10 of Major League Soccer’s 16 teams in action this Easter weekend, Toronto FC is one of the clubs in the enviable position of receiving a ‘bye’ in the second weekend of league play. To some it might stall any forward progress, but after going down 2-0 to Columbus in the season opener, the two weeks of preparation for their next match should prove critical in putting forth a more organized effort, adding depth and continuing to build a more cohesive unit. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5036039 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5036039 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 23:54:00 EDT It hasn't always been easy to be a soccer fan in Canada. The mainstream media has often all but ignored the sport and many of the top Canadian sports analysts have been downright antagonistic towards it. Hockey continues to dominate the headlines and mainstream media and it likely will for many years to come. While some 80 per cent of Canadians watched part of the recent Olympic hockey final, fans of the Canadian Men's National Soccer Team had to listen to a Jamaican radio feed on the Internet in order to follow the action for Canada's recent friendly against Jamaica. At the same time, it is not difficult to understand where Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber was coming from when said that Toronto has the potential to become a soccer epicenter. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5034363 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5034363 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 07:11:00 EDT Red Nation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Eddy Sidra, a young Canadian defender who plays with Energie Cottbus in the German Bundesliga 2nd division. He is also a member of the Men’s Canadian National Team and has been capped twice at the Senior level. Sidra is among the group of young and up and coming players that competed for Canada in their recent friendly against Jamaica. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5026468 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5026468 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 03:32:00 EDT If there was a theme to Toronto FC's season opener, it was simply this: know your limitations. That was evident early on when, just nine minutes in, new centre half Ty Harden tried to play a ball out of the back, only to be stripped and have to recover with an in-the-box slide tackle that, thankfully for TFC, was only a corner. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5023661 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5023661 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 23:54:00 EDT Some critical results for Canadians playing overseas this past weekend. Almost every side is getting the results to steer clear of relegation – in the Bundesliga Kevin McKenna’s FC Koln won 4-1, while Rob Friend started in Monchengladbach’s 1-0 victory over Hamburg to further push them well clear of the bottom of the table. Atiba Hutchinson’s FC Copenhagen are in a tight race in the Danish Super League losing 2-0 to Patrice Bernier’s (with a goal in the effort) FC Nordsjaelland mid-week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5023501 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5023501 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 21:23:00 EDT It could be said that for the most part, Toronto FC surprised both their opponents and supporters in the season opener in Columbus. After a poor preseason with few noticeable bright spots, the Reds held their own for most of the game. It could be said that expectations were so low that a 2-0 scoreline, on the road, to a top four club - TFC looked much better than initially thought. But the story remains the same. Poor leadership and quality at the back and an inability to convert chances let down the team who could have walked away with points due to their opponent lacking a killer instinct. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5023500 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5023500 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 21:20:00 EDT Toronto FC show plenty of positive signs in an opening day loss against the Columbus Crew. Toronto opened their 2010 season today with a new coach and plenty of new faces in the lineup. Coming off a preseason in which Toronto scored few goals and with a fan base that was nervous and agitated about the state of the team, the Reds opened on the road against a tough opponent in the Columbus Crew, the reigning winners of the MLS Supporters' Shield. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5021478 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5021478 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 20:26:00 EDT You couldn’t get more of a 180 from Toronto heading into Columbus in 2009 and almost a year to the date in 2010. Coming off a good road win in Kansas City, loads of promise and 2,000 supporters in tow, this year there will be a smattering of TFC fans and barely enough players to... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5017441 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5017441 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 23:15:00 EDT The message from new bench boss Preki was simple enough: stop pickin' on TFC. The club that fans are learning to love to facepalm has a horribly malnourished roster, no leading scorer, no defensive line leader and he wants..optimism? Charity? What, exactly? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5016073 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5016073 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 09:25:00 EDT The 2010 MLS season is upon us and with the CBA agreement hammered out, it’s all systems go. For Toronto FC, they are in deep before the first kick off has even happened and will find themselves battling against much improved competition throughout the Eastern Conference. From top to bottom, all the teams have either maintained their key strengths, found players to replace departures or upgraded over the off-season. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5015200 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5015200 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 22:42:00 EDT Born in Llandrindod Wells, Wales, Carl Robinson's career as a midfielder has seen him play with a variety of clubs in the United Kingdom, the Wales National Team and was an inaugural member of Toronto FC of Major League Soccer. Following three seasons as a core player and team leader with Toronto FC, Carl was traded to the New York Red Bulls where he is currently preparing for his fourth season in the MLS. On his Official Website, soccer is described as being in Carl's blood. In this interview, Carl and Red Nation discuss his recent training camp with Red Bulls, his upcoming MLS Season with New York, the recent Collective Bargaining Agreement between the MLS Owners and Player’s Union, as well as some of his thoughts on a variety of topics related to his time with Toronto FC. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5013127 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5013127 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 01:22:00 EDT If Toronto FC fans think things are getting ugly right now, just imagine how bad they could get on April 15. It's a big day in the history of Canada's first MLS club: The home opener of a fourth season mired in controversy, poor pre-season performances, a woefully inadequate roster and a pivotal fanbase growing increasingly irate with Director of Football Mo Johnston. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5011491 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5011491 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:20:00 EDT With Toronto FC’s preseason coming to a close with a 1-0 defeat to Real Salt Lake in the Carolina Challenge Cup at Blackbaud Stadium in Charleston on Saturday night, TFC supporters are likely feeling very apprehensive as the team and its supporters look toward the season opener next Saturday against their arch rivals in Columbus. Simply put, the team has looked listless and disjointed throughout the preseason and the club’s dedicated supporters have seen more red cards than goals under new Head Coach Preki. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5010420 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5010420 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 23:46:00 EDT Less than a month before the start of its 17th outdoor season and five months after bagging the third championship title of its history, the Montreal Impact is still hungry because, as says head coach Marc Dos Santos, “there’s still a lot of unfinished business”. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5007755 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5007755 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 21:26:00 EDT With the announcement last week that Toronto FC had sent striker Ali Gerba back to Toronto and away from training camp, the 27 year old Canadian International looks set to become the next in an ever lengthening line of divorces between the Toronto club and their veteran personnel. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5007738 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5007738 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 21:25:00 EDT It was the Rhine derby this past weekend as Rob Friend’s Borussia Monchengladbach faced off against Kevin McKenna’s FC Koln. McKenna did not see any action, while Friend was given the start after a long absence in the starting XI. Unfortunately Marco Reus’ opening goal was not enough as the match ended 1-1. Another big match was Simeon Jackson’s Gillingham traveling to Charlton to try to find their first ever victory at The Valley in over 100 years – but Jackson’s late sub into the game was not enough as they could not hold onto a first half lead and drew 2-2 to keep out of the relegation battle. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5007737 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5007737 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 21:23:00 EDT If you haven’t seen The Damned United by now, then do yourself a favour and get yourself a copy and watch it at the next available opportunity. Simply put, it was one of the best movies of any genre to be released in 2009 and, while I may not be totally impartial as a serious footie fan, I thought it was certainly as good as The Hurt Locker, which recently won the award for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5005842 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=5005842 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 00:09:00 EDT Red Nation recently had the opportunity to speak with Tyler Hemming, a 24 year old midfielder who plays for the Montreal Impact. Hemming has been capped 2 times by the Men's Canadian National Team and most recently competed for Canada in their recent friendly against Jamaica. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4996616 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4996616 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 03:06:00 EDT He didn't intend it, but there was an air of futility to TFC assistant coach Nick Dasovic as he addressed the media in Florida last week. Yes, he conceded, the (alleged) start of the MLS season is just a couple of weeks away. Yes, the team has just 13 full-time roster members. Yes, that makes it tough but they'd try and work out some first team options at the Carolina Challenge Cup. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4993903 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4993903 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 02:47:00 EDT It was the Copenhagen Derby this past Sunday, with Atiba Hutchinson’s FC Copenhagen taking out cross-town rivals Brondby 2-0. In the Bundesliga, Kevin McKenna’s recent run in the starting XI resulted in points against both Bayern Munich and Leverkusen, however they were unlucky this weekend to come away with nothing against Mainz, losing 1-0. The rest of the results were poor for Canadians overseas, but one thing of note is Olivier Occean’s Lillestrom kicking off their season, which marks the start of many Northern European leagues preparing to begin. Outsite of Norway, in the next month we’ll see Finland and Lithuania start their seasons. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4991452 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4991452 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 22:04:00 EDT With the Seattle Sounders setting the bar in 2009 for MLS expansion success, on the field and in the stands, the Vancouver Whitecaps prepare for their 2010 USSF-2 season with a minimum requirement of meeting, and hopefully exceeding, this level when then enter the league in 2011. Since the end of the 2009 campaign, Vancouver has only taken a few weeks off, and have been in training since early January. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4991451 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4991451 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 22:03:00 EDT Part 1 of 2 Simeon Jackson is confident that Canada are taking positive steps towards 2014, but warns that more will follow the path of Asmir Begovic to represent other nations Gillingham, UK Simeon Jackson stands out from the surroundings at Gillingham FC. As he enters the press room at KRBS Priestfield stadium, his finely knit cardigan and suave cap immediately distinguishes him from his adopted post-industrial Kent town as much as his still-strong Canadian accent. He apologizes with a polite smile for keeping us waiting during his post-training massage, but offers the confident air of a collected young star. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4981913 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4981913 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:17:00 EDT The departing TFC midfielder, Carl Robinson, is something of a football idol in Wales. No wonder: he's been a class act for years. But back to Robbo in a minute. We start this week, instead, a little bit north, in a land not unlike this one, where a wee Scotsman is phoning his mentor, Hamish McCowdenbeathmacbethshire. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4980479 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4980479 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 09:41:00 EDT After getting back on track two weeks ago, Simeon Jackson netted two goals this past weekend to keep his Gillingham side away from relegation. Jackson now has 17 goals on the season, 14 in League One. In Denmark, Atiba Hutchinson’s FC Copenhagen bounced back after being knocked out of the Europa League, defeating AGF Aarhus 5-0 to stay atop of SAS-Ligen. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4977036 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4977036 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 23:47:00 EDT 12 months down the road it’s going to be one of the top rivalries in Major League Soccer but for now, supporters of the Vancouver Whitecaps and Seattle Sounders had to make do with a pre-season friendly. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4976827 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4976827 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 23:46:00 EDT With a handful of preseason games under their belts, Toronto FC are already being faced with important questions heading into the 2010 campaign. This past weekend’s 4-0 loss to New York was highlighted by Designated Player Julian De Guzman being sent off for a challenge many deemed “out of frustration”. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4968803 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4968803 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:42:00 EDT With the news that Canadian born forward Junior Hoilett has signed a new two and half year contract with Blackburn Rovers, the 19 year old up and coming star can now put the stress of contract negotiations behind him and focus solely on becoming the best player that he can be. Hoilett has been quoted on the Rovers Official website as saying, ”I’m very happy it is done and sealed. I’d been looking forward to it and I’m happy to be here. It has taken a while, but Blackburn has always been my first choice.” Blackburn fended off interest from Hamburg and other European clubs to retain the services of a player that Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce has hailed as a rising star. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4966108 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4966108 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 23:01:00 EDT Red Nation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Karina LeBlanc, a veteran goalkeeper who plays professionally with the Philadelphia Independence of the Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) league. LeBlanc is also a key member of the Women's Canadian National Team and is the most capped Canadian goalkeeper of all time. Red Nation and Karina discuss her thoughts on her recent championship season with the Los Angeles Sol, her upcoming season with the Philadelphia Independence and her experiences playing with the Women's Canadian National Team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4957627 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4957627 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 02:06:00 EDT Sometimes, a loss says more about the fans' collective state of mind than a team's. How close to the surface, exactly, does the resentment towards Toronto FC football director Mo Johnston linger among the team's die-hard fans? How much time has Mo got to make this thing work? http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4957462 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4957462 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:42:00 EDT For Canadians playing overseas, the two big matches this past week were Europa League fixtures with Mike Klukowski’s Club Brugge and Atiba Hutchinson’s FC Copenhagen. Brugge went down 3-0 and 3-1 on aggregate and Copenhagen suffered a 3-1 loss, 6-2 on aggregate. Domestically Brugge continue to struggle to keep pace with Anderlecht, while in German Borussia Monchengladbach miss out on three points but still remain safe mid-table.. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond: http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4957436 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4957436 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:55:00 EDT With many Toronto FC fans getting their first chance to watch the 2010 incarnation of the team via their 1-0 win over FC Dallas in the Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic in Orlando on Thursday night, it immediately became clear that the team is going play quite differently under new Head Coach Preki. And while the team looked quite organized and disciplined overall, one thing that has not changed is the achilles heel that continues to stand out in the form of central defender Nick Garcia. While some had hoped that a player of his genuine experience would thrive within whichever new system that the former Chivas USA Head Coach would employ, Garcia once again looked mediocre, slow and prone to errors. And with Toronto deciding not to offer veteran Canadian defender Adrian Serioux a contract, the back line once again looks to be a major point of weakness for the team. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4952994 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4952994 Sat, 27 Feb 2010 13:12:00 EDT “The United States has already laid claim to the Miracle on Ice after its hockey team’s Olympic victory in 1980. Now it is Canada’s turn to talk about the Miracle on Grass.’’ That was the opening paragraph of my piece under the heading “Holger’s Heroes” in the Toronto Star’s Monday, February 28 edition 10 years ago. The package also carried a half-page photograph of Mark Watson, Jason de Vos and Jeff Clarke celebrating what I, and many experts, believe stands out as the greatest moment in the history of soccer in this country. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4949938 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4949938 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 03:01:00 EDT Mike Klukowski’s Club Brugge hung in with Spanish heavyweights Valencia for as longs as they could, but eventually succumbed to the superior firepower of Juan Mata and Pablo. They lost 3-0 with the wining goal coming in extra time, bowing out of the Europa League 3-1 on aggregate. In Marseille, Atiba Hutchinson’s FC Copenhagen were soundly defeated by Olympique Marseille 3-1, 6-2 on aggregate, to ensure for the second year in a row, Copenhagen will not see beyond the round of 32. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4949937 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4949937 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 03:01:00 EDT Red Nation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Jason de Vos, a former defender with the Canadian Men's National Team. De Vos was capped 49 times by Canada and was the team captain of the Canadian team that won the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Jason offers insightful analysis on the experience, and looks towards building Canada’s future success. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4948114 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4948114 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 03:44:00 EDT It was ten years ago this week that Canadians would wake up to seeing their national team make the front page of the sports section for the first time in the Gold Cup. They would be basking in not only one of the biggest wins in Canadian soccer, but biggest upsets in CONCACAF history. On February 20, 2000, the 85th ranked Canada defeated the 10th ranked team in the world, a team that had not only won the last three Gold Cups, but not lost in the tournament since 1991. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4944696 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4944696 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 05:12:00 EDT Ironically, the stall in MLS contracts talks, as they creep towards their eventual conclusion, is...all about contract talks. In broad, old-fashioned Brit political farce -- like some old Peter Sellers/Peter Cook skit -- you'd expect that kind of problem at the beginning of the negotiations. You know, the ol' "We can't even decide on the shape of the negotiating table" schtick. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4944695 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4944695 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 05:11:00 EDT In February 2000, Paul and the other members of the Canadian National Team shocked the soccer world when they won the 2000 Gold Cup, which is the main football competition of the men’s national teams governed by CONCACAF. Mexico and the United States are the only other countries to have won the tournament. It was Canada’s first major international honour in more than 100 years of football and certainly ranks along with the 1986 World Cup Qualification as one of the greatest successes of the national team. Red Nation Online and Paul discuss his thoughts on the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4936420 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4936420 Sat, 20 Feb 2010 01:54:00 EDT Coming into Thursday’s EUROPA League match-ups featuring two Canadian Internationals, on paper it looked like Mike Klukowski’s Club Brugge would be the side completely overwhelmed by superior opposition. FC Copenhagen and Atiba Hutchinson drew French side Marseille who have struggled domestically, and given their experience in the tournament were in a good position to get through to the next round. However, it was Belgian side Club Brugge who stood up to the historically bigger team, Valencia, to earn themselves a much needed goal advantage going into the away fixture next week. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4934522 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4934522 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 23:45:00 EDT Red Nation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Carlo Corazzin, a former striker with the Canadian Men's National Team. Corazzin was capped 59 times by Canada and was a key player for Canadian team that won the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Red Nation Online and Carlo discuss his thoughts on the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4930145 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4930145 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 01:48:00 EDT On February 12, 2000, in one of Canada’s national newspapers, The Toronto Star, the front page and sports section is filled with Vinsanity. The North Carolina Tar Heel and Toronto Raptor had just won the NBA Slam Dunk competition and put not only Toronto, but Canada in the spotlight. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4925081 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4925081 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 01:15:00 EDT For TFC, the next goal has to be a goalscorer. It's hard not to like some of the roster moves already seen from new TFC bench boss Preki and Football Director Mo Johnston. But there's still a lot of work to be done. Both Jacob Peterson and Ty Harden are known as gritty and hardworking players with considerable talent. If Peterson can come back from his... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4925080 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4925080 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 01:14:00 EDT Canadian Internationals Atiba Hutchinson and Mike Klukowski’s domestic clubs are in tough this Thursday, February 18, in their Round of 32 Europa League match ups. Hutchinson’s FC Copenhagen meets Ligue 1’s Olympique Marseille while Klukowski’s Club Brugge have a mountain to climb against Spanish giants Valencia. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4921406 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4921406 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:25:00 EDT Another quiet weekend for Canadians across the Atlantic. Of note, Monchengladbach striker Rob Friend came on in the 73rd minute and immediately netted the winning goal as his side exact revenge from a loss earlier in the season, winning 2-1. Josh Simpson’s bottom dwelling Manisaspor almost had a “David-like” performance, nearly upsetting Turkish league leaders Fenerbahce. As this mid-week approaches, both Mike Kluikowski and Atiba Hutchinson will be in big European matches as their sides take on Valencia and Marseille respectively on Thursday. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond: http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4921405 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4921405 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:24:00 EDT Red Nation Online recently had the opportunity to speak with Adrian Cann, a veteran central defender who plays with Esbjerg in the Danish Superliga. Cann has been capped 8 times by the Men's Canadian National Team and most recently competed for Canada in their recent friendly against Jamaica. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4911919 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4911919 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 23:55:00 EDT With pre-season under way for Toronto FC, all the “next year” talk from the end of 2009 has finally arrived. What does TFC have to do in order to have a successful season? A season where success should not be measured simply by making the playoffs, but contending for the MLS Cup and putting out a team that plays an attractive brand of football... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4907408 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4907408 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:49:00 EDT In an ideal business environment, there'd be a constant sense of give and take, of new ideas exposed and acted on, and of general collaboration. Of course, real world office politics, differences in intelligence levels and just plain human frailty all conspire to render such a workplace wonderland quite unfeasible. That plain reality of life probably does more... http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4907407 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4907407 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:48:00 EDT A relatively poor set of results for Canadians plying their trade in Europe. In Belgium, Mike Klukowski’s Club Brugge were unable to hold off league leaders Anderlecht, losing 3-2 and losing ground in the title race. Rob Friend started on the bench for Borussia Monchengladbach, who were downed 1-0 by FC Mainz and lose a critical three points as well as all the momentum they had built at the winter break. Daniel Imhof began his career in Switzerland with FC St. Gallen with a 1-0 victory. Here’s how the rest of Canada’s Internationals fared across the pond: http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4897047 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=4897047 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 01:38:00 EDT