Thursday, December 31, 2009

Should old acquaintance be forgot.....

This will be my last post for 2009. I hope everyone has a safe and Happy New Year. May 2010 bring happiness, luck, good fortune and blessings.... AND may it bring us an amazing World Cup in South Africa. USA!

Sounders Get Seattle Times Love

The Sounders and their fans were shown a little love by the Seattle Times in a 2009 wrap up piece. When I lived in New York, I never heard about the Metrostars, lets hope that changes for RBNY when that new arena opens.

Quick Headlines

Sky Sports and ESPN pundit Andy Gray gives off his best 11 for the Premier League Team of the Decade. I was very surprised to see who his goal keeper was, but after reading what the former Scotland international said I have to agree with him.

After Liverpools much needed win versus Aston Villa, Defender Glen Johnson was subbed off in the 88th minute with a knee injury. Liverpool F.C. reports that he could be sidelined for up to a month.

Want away Bayern Munich Striker loaned to Roma. Why is it everytime I see Luca Toni's name I start humming the tune "My name is Luka," by Suzanne Vega?

Yep, you guessed it... You know I had to!

Opa!!!!

Fulham F.C. has announced that Eddie Johnson has been sent on loan to Greek club Aris Salonika until the end the season. After only appearing 4 times for the Cottagers this year, EJ is hoping for more playing time as he looks to secure a spot on the U.S. World Cup roster. Aris Salonika sits in a 3 way tie (Kavala, Panionios) for 5th in the Greek Super League. They are hoping Eddie can give them the added offensive boost to claim the final Europa League spot. At this point I don't have too much optimism for Eddie, but I do wish him the best. I have never doubted his skill, talent or his ambition, but after a sub par loan with Cardiff and failed attempt with Fulham, I'm starting to wonder if his lack of success is more mental than anything. I do hope this opportunity is the break through he needs and he finally lives up to the potential we all see.

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Zakuani On FSN

I thought it was cool to see a MLS player being interviewed during the halftime of a basketball game. Granted it's only the UW Men's Basketball team, but it's the closest thing Seattle has to the NBA. You can catch up with Zakuani's off-season here.

FIFA 10 Goals of the Year

These gamers may not win the Puskas, but EA Sports have selected their best goals of the year. If you want to enter the competition, you can go to EASportsFootball.com

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

FSC in HD


This is the moment we've all ben waiting for. Starting in January 2010, Fox Soccer Channel will be available in High Definition. I have to admit that I've been spoiled by ESPN's HD coverage of the English Premier League and Spain's La Liga. Even ESPN's MLS Primetime Game of the Week is more fun to watch in 1080i. So please click this link and take the time to fill out the form and let your cable/satellite provider know that you want FSC HD. Do it now!

UPDATE: And then send Fox an email letting them know that I (or you) want FoxSoccer.TV for free too. Come on Fox! ESPN gives us 360 and you can do the same.

Onalfo to United


DC United have officially hired Curt Onalfo as their head coach. There will be a press conference on Tuseday, January 5th to unveil the former KC Wizards coach to the press.
“Our first priority was to find someone who shares the club's long-standing philosophy of attacking soccer – and Curt absolutely does. Having played and coached here, Curt understands the culture of D.C. United. As a former member of our 1998 and 1999 championship-winning teams he understands what is necessary today to fulfill the D.C. United legacy and meet the lofty expectations that follow our club. His fluency in Spanish, familiarity with our community, and understanding of our league are additional factors that make him the ideal choice to lead our team and I am excited to welcome him home. We look forward to getting to work in bringing the MLS Cup back to D.C." said United President, Kevin Payne.
I always find it interesting to hear what the President says about a coaching hire when they've been turned down by their first choice. I hope that Onalfo does a good job and brings United back to being a playoff team. The league's first dynasty could use some good years during this new era of MLS 2.0. Plus, I'm excited to see Cristian Castillo in action.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Now This Is A Christmas Remix

Check out Mike Relm and DJ D-Sharp doing a 4 song Christmas remix.

Happy Boxing Day...And More Free Stuff


Happy Boxing Day everyone. I have to admit that Boxing Day doesn't mean much to me other than there tends to be quite a few matches on the telly. I did run across this free EP from B. Reith and I wanted to share it with all of our readers in case you didn't get enough for Christmas. I've brought you B. Reith before, but I'm feeling the Free Ep so I had to pass it along. The dude brings a refreshing mix of singing and rapping so he's kind of tough to classify. So what are you waiting for? Hurry up and download the free EP on Amazon and then check out the video below while you're waiting. Peace.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Merry Christmas



Here is Tacoma's own J Rice covering Mariah's hit. I'm really feeling the acoustic vibe on here. As my Christmas gift to all of you, I'm going to give you all links to J Rice's sites where you can get free downloads of two of his albums (Trust me, you will want to pick these up).

Youtube site: http://www.youtube.com/user/jriceproductions
Myspace site: http://www.myspace.com/jrice
Download his new album "Heartbreakerz" here : http://bit.ly/KmJXo
Download his older album "So Close" here: http://bit.ly/jricesoclose

And I'll leave you with a sample from his song Victoria Secret Model from his "So Close" album.
Merry Christmas!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Heads Up

Who Is Alejandro Bedoya?


I know that's what you were thinking when you read the list of players called in for the USMNT traing camp in January. So I took the liberty of giving you a little information on the man of the hour.
Alejandro Bedoya played  high school ball in Fort. Lauderdale, FL and then attended Farleigh Dickinson for two years before transferring to Boston College. He also attended the 2006 U-20 training camp in Bradenton, FL and eventually missed out on a spot on the 2008 US Olympic team. Bedoya then signed with Orebro SK of Sweden near the end of 2008. Here is a blog post from the guy on life in Sweden and I've posted a video of him making a substitute appearance and earning a point for his squad.



Pre-Christmas Roundup


A few items as we head into the Christmas holiday...and all those Boxing Day matches!

Don't know what to give your loved one? How about a massage?

Will Manchester United put a little Pep in their step?

With the new NASL breakaway league making all the noise, we've all forgotten about what's left of the USL. The PDL announced their alignment today and there are a lot of teams in that league.

According to Ives, Jermaine Jones' rehab at Schalke isn't going so well. Sucks for all the USMNT supporters.

Do you ever wonder what MLS coaches do during the offseason? Sounders FC goalkeeper coach, Tom Dutra has been in Hoffenheim, Germany learning from 1899 Hoffenheim. Check it out, it's an interesting read. He also got to see Jens Lehmann's bathroom break that ODB told you about.

Finally, here are the 30 players that Bob Bradley called into the January training camp.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Ronaldo Wins the Puskas


I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "What is a Puskas? And should I be offended?" Well, the answer is "no." The Goal of the Year Award is named after the late Ferenc Puskas and the first annual FIFA Puskas Award went to Cristiano Ronaldo for his long range bomb against FC Porto in the Champions League.

Here are all the goals nominated.

Who do you think should have won? Let us know in the comments.

The Best of U.S. Soccer 2009

U.S. Soccer keeps rolling out their Best of 2009 winners. No, we didn't win best soccer blog, but our boy Ives did. Peep the videos below and check out all of the winners here.





Cristiano Ronaldo and Motor Oil?

What won't this guy sell? But if I stop and think, "Would I do a commercial for Castrol if they paid me?" I would have to say, "Yes!"

Behind the Scenes Footage

And this is why the dude makes Arab Money.

Messi Wins World Player of the Year

What came as a surprise to no one, Lionel Messi and Marta were named the World Players of the Year. Players from Argentina and Brasil...take that you Eurosnobs.

Behind The Scenes - Blind Keepie Uppie

Last week Oh Danny Boy brought you the original video, and now I'm dropping the behind the scenes on ya.

FIFA World Club Championship

On Saturday night, (at least here on the west coast) Barcelona came from behind to defeat Estudiantes in the final of the FIFA World Club Championship. That brought their trophy count to six for the year. Not too shabby if you ask me.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Cristian Castillo to DC United

I don't think this signing has gotten enough hype. DC United have signed midfielder Cristian Castillo from Leon FC of Mexico. Please watch all the videos below and see why I'm excited to have the Cristiano Ronaldo of El Salvador playing in MLS. In fact, I was questioning signing a player while United didn't even have a head coach...but it seems stupid to pass up this opportunity.



Oh Yeah! Watch out Columbus, Frankie obviously has some issues defending this guy. I can't wait to see the first match between United and the Crew.

Tis The Season, Holden Style

MLS pretty boy Stuart Holden is caught on video in an elf suit while delivering toys to the Children's hospital in Houston. He is joined by teammate, Craig Waibel (hey Ty, I used to play with that guy). The second video has Stu promoting his Bowling With Stu event on Sunday.

Born To Score

I had no idea that Dwight Yorke wrote a book, but you can pick up Born To Score here.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Landycakes To Everton

Landon Donovan has signed a loan deal with Everton just days after signing a 4 year contract extension with MLS and the LA Galaxy.

UEFA Champions League Draw


The UEFA Champions League draw happened earlier today and there are some intriguing matchups.

VfB Stuttgart v Barcelona
Olympiakos v Bordeaux
Internazionale v Chelsea
Bayern Munich v Fiorentina
CSKA Moscow v Sevilla FC
Lyon v Real Madrid
FC Porto v Arsenal
AC Milan v Manchester United

The Chelsea vs Inter match catches my eye because it has The Special1 returning to face his former club, but for me the biggest matchup has to be Manchester United vs AC Milan. David Beckham was hoping for the match up earlier in the week and I have to admit that I didn't think it would happen. I guess I shouldn't doubt Goldenballs. So now Patrice Evra gets to try and shut down the former Old Trafford legend as United look to make it three straight Champions League finals in a row. I can't wait for mid February!

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Blindfold Juggling

USA v Costa Rica: World Cup Qualifying.



Caught this on Jozy Altidore's Facebook page. Pretty awesome.

This video just won in the 2009 Best of Awards on ussoccer.com

Edge of Darnkess

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

How to play keep away, by Marouane Chamakh and Matthieu Chalme

Jens Lehmann: When Nature calls



I kept hearing about this and finally got around to look it up. Here's a clip of what looks like Lehmann taking a quick wiz. Looks like he was done just in time as the opposing team came on the offensive. How funny would it have been if Stuttgart got scored against on an empty net.

A Prophet

Not Quite Arab Money


MLS has offered Stuart Holden a new contract in an effort to keep him from jumping the pond. The guy was only making $34,728.75 a year, so being offered 10 times what you were isn't too shabby, plus he'll be able to dress even better. Man, I wish I could afford a Bumpy Pitch shirt.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Brooklyn's Finest

Kid Cudi - Pursuit Of Happiness ft. MGMT, Ratatat

This should make DJ Salvo proud. I'm not that huge on hip hop, but I dig this song.

Valencia vs Real Madrid

Forget Kaka and Ronaldo. It's all about Gonzalo Higuain and Ezequiel Garay

Friday, December 11, 2009

The Guidos have invaded.

Surprised Sterlinho hasn't mentioned this since he's all about the Jersey Shore. I have to admit, I've been watching this show. It's like watching a train wreck, I can't believe these guys exist. America... Why?

Freestyle Fridays

Today's Freestyle Friday comes from freestyle footballers Abbas Farrid and John Farnworth. The video caught my attention because it plays the song, Whoa Whoa! by Soul P. This was the lead off single for his album The Premiere and the original video features former label mate and my friend Willie Will.

Both John and Abbas have their own t-shirts from Who Are Ya Designs.

ESPNsoccernet PressPass

Dean Ashton to retire

The West Ham striker has been forced to retire from soccer at age 26 due to chronic degenration in the Ankle. So young and full of promise. Got to feel really bad for this guy.

Here's the full article: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=711356&sec=england&cc=3888

All Saints Day

Tips from the Yanks

Beat the Pro

Monday, December 7, 2009

Solid Gold by Cookbook

My boy, CookBook of LA Symphony just dropped his new video, Solid Gold. It's off his I love the 80's album which I told you how to get for free a while back. The new Deluxe Edition Re-release drops on December 15th, so cop that disc!

Sunday, December 6, 2009

The Freak Out

This is by far the biggest freak out I have ever seen. This kid has major issues and will seriously have to skip town.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Hull goes down vs Aston Villa

Nice goal by Milner. You don't see it in the highlights but, Jimmy Bullard was taken out of the game with another injury. Full Story: http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news?slug=txeplhullcityastonvill&prov=st&type=lgns can't help but wonder how much more can this guy endure? I just feel bad for guys like him and Kieron Dyer.

Portsmouth records first win under Avram Grant

Paid Players + Happy Players= Good result

Glory Glory Man United.

Arsenal vs Stoke

The injuries seem to be effecting Arsenal as they did not look impressive vs Stoke. Eduardo pulled out of the line up with a thigh injury, Emmanuel Eboue picked up a muscle injury and defenders Armand Traore and William Gallas have hamstring injuries.

Friday, December 4, 2009

UPDATE: Portsmouth Players Paid.

As I mentioned a few posts ago, Portsmouth Football
Club was having a tough time paying their players for the month of November. Seems a little loan has eased the situation... For now. Click on the link below for the report on the BBC:

Soccernet Press Pass

Predictions and Hopes for the South Africa 2010

John Harkes


Steve McManaman


Efan Ekoku

Bob and Sunil reactions

The New World Cup Ball

The new FIFA World Cup ball, Jabulani, hits the store shelves tomorrow. I'm impressed by the level of detail that they put into the graphics. But I'm more interested in which goalkeeper will be the first one to complain about it. Hey Mr. Goalkeeper Man, we want lots of goals!

FIFA World Cup Groups

The first video is an overview with the emphasis on which group is the Group of Death. The following videos break down each group individually.








Conan Talks MLS Cup

The Table Is Set


The U.S. received a great draw in Group C drawing England, Algeria and Slovenia. You can see the Groups here. Thanks Charlize for the draw...and your sense of humor.

Live Feed: FIFA World Cup Draw

Watch live video from FIFA WORLD CUP DRAW on Justin.tv

David Beckham visits South Africa as U.N. Ambassador





Fan's Getting Ready

USMNT Gearing Up For The Draw

Kevin Alston Video Blog

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Fate, Destiny, Glory!!


Don't forget to tune into ESPN2 or ESPN360.com for the South Africa 2010 draw (12pmET/9am PST). Fingers crossed the U.S. doesn't get slated in the group of death again. If they do... It's under dog status once again and for me prefer that title. Here's to a favorable group... If you're a U.S. fan.

Passion Pit

Kind of catchy, different... I feel it.

Currently Listening to: MUTEMATH-Backfire

This is a very good band, if you get a chance to see them live do so. You will not be disappointed.

Pompey players need to get paid!

Looks like new manager Avram Grant has inherited more than a club with a losing record. ESPN Soccernet has reported that Portsmouth players have yet to be paid the full amount for November. Not only are players not getting their money, but it seems the transfer embargo that was put on the club has not been lifted. Here's the full story: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=707585&sec=england&cc=3888



Details on Portsmouth transfer embargo: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/759027-portsmouth-confirm-transfer-embargo

What the?!

I know Florida State isn't having the best of season's, but this guy has literally given up! Well, at least he's showing up for the games.

Chivas USA Unveils Vasquez As New Head Coach

Chivas USA officially unveiled Martin Vasquez as their new Head Coach.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Barcelona vs Xerez Highlights

Jones Returns To Training And Other News


U.S. Men's National Team fans will be happy to hear that Jermaine Jones has returned to training for Schalke. Jones could be a big boost to the central midfield for the Americans if he can get fit and gel with the team before this summer's World Cup.

While taking a break from snowboarding, Freddie Ljungberg gives his thoughts on the 32 teams playing in next years World Cup.

Keep in mind that the MLS Players Union is in constant talks with MLS regarding the Collective Bargaining Agreement that expires on January 31st, 2010. Here's a good article on some of the issues that need to be addressed. We'll keep you posted as this story plays out.

Landycakes Interview

Bob Ley asks Landon Donovan the hard question about his pro career and lobs him some softballs on Friday's World Cup draw and Henry's handball.

FIFA World Cup Top Seeds


You can see the pot breakdowns here.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Vampire Weekend: "Cousins."

Huge fan of this band. Can't help but notice Chris Tomson's (drummer) Chivas jersey. Enjoy.

Gibson's double sinks Spurs in Carling Cup action

Speaking of labeling someone as "the new." People are already muttering Gibson's name as the new Paul Scholes. Well, he sure had some sweet goals like Scholesy today. DG's second goal was great combination play and amazing finish.

Hollywood United and Setanta Join Forces


Stars from the Hollywood United soccer team recite a Kipling poem for Setanta Sports.

From Rudyard Kipling's "If"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man my son!

Adidas: Unite Mzansi Unite!


From Football Shirt Culture:
Unite Mzansi Unite (UMU) is a campaign created by adidas to celebrate the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The project aims to inspire all South Africans to unite in celebration behind the 2010 FIFA World Cup

For this campaign, adidas has created a giant yellow jersey a replica of the official Bafana-Bafana jersey. It is truly giant measuring 60m x 48m. The jersey has just started its amazing 7 month journey through the entire South Africa. It is a platform for all South Africans to unite and show their support by signing their name on the jersey. A custom made truck is transporting this giant yellow jersey through all 9 provinces of the country. This campaign wants to unify South Africa by giving as many South Africans possible the opportunity to make their mark, show their support and celebrate the 2010 FIFA World Cup as one. nike puma umbro

Its time for South Africa to come together, to show our support and passion.
Its about showing the world who we are.
The passion of our people.
The warmth of our culture.
The spirit of our nation.

Unite Mzansi Unite!

Bono and Drogba Team Up For World Aid's Day

I'm diggin' Drogba's kicks at the 58 second mark.

Tuesday News


I'm way too tired to come up with anything clever so I'm going to just give you the news.

New England Revolution defender Jay Heaps is retiring. I guess he was just holding out for that first USMNT cap.

Canada will be at the World Cup. Maybe Ireland can figure out a way to get there too.

The NASL is growing by the minute.

Martin Vasquez is tipped to be the new Chivas USA coach.

Jermaine Defoe knows how to score.

The Generation Adidas boys are touring South Africa.

Have a holly jolly Christmas! Seriously, you need to go window shopping.

Worst Miss Ever (Updated)



I found this video on the front page of Yahoo today. Ignoring the fact that this is truly the worst miss I have ever seen, there have been more and more soccer related stories making the cover of Yahoo recently. The Henry hand ball was the top story followed by that whole girl soccer brawler incendent.


Following the Confederations Cup Kaka was on the front page as one of the most searched for people.


The front page also had video of the SMU 80 yard goal and the Egyptian league goal in 6 second over the last couple of months. It's good to see the beautiful game get some recognition from main stream media outlets.

UPDATE (from Sterlinho): I'm glad that White Kix posted this video. My computer crashed when I was trying to post the same video yesterday. I was going to put it up there with these misses from Diego Forlan and Steve Zakuani.

What Could The Draw Hold For The US?

Monday, November 30, 2009

Man Of The Year

The Toronto FC supporters group, Red Patch Boys have named Dwayne De Rosario their 2009 Man of the Year. My biggest questions is, how does the dude get away with that Jamaican accent with out coming off wack? Do I need to remind people about the other white dude from the Toronto ghetto?

Nike Tiempo 94


Nike dropped a limited edition boot to commemorate their launch of the Tiempo Series back in 1994.
The limited-edition, limited-distribution Nike Tiempo 94 Men's Football Boot celebrates the heritage of the Nike Tiempo and Paolo Maldini, the player who first wore the boot and made it legendary in the 1994 world championship football tournament in the US.

This new edition features the latest innovations to make it a lighter, tougher boot.
Only 2,500 pairs are available in Europe through select retailers.

I can't believe it's been 15 years. Crazy how time flies!

The Next Drogba?


I love how the media is always trying to label someone as the "next (fill in whatever name you want here)." Apparently, the Daily Mail have found the next Didier Drogba. Anderlecht striker, Romelu Lukaku is a big boy, and he may well be the next Drogba, but he's still only 16 years old. So keep an eye out for this kid since Chelsea and the rest of the We Buy Everyone We Can crowd seem to want him now. Check out the footage of the youngster.

At least I know who I'm trying to buy on the cheap in FIFA 10.

Seatte Sounders FC on the BBC

Pretty amazing how SSFC is gaining popularity outside the U.S. Can't wait for Vancouver and Portland to join the MLS. Then we will really have a show. Thanks for setting the standard Seattle.


Do You Remember Night Trap?


I got into a conversation with a guy at work today about all kinds of old school video games. He couldn't remember the name, but he went on to tell me about a game with cameras and girls. Well, I most definitely remembered that game...Night Trap. It was revolutionary and pretty much started the whole ESRB rating system for video games. It also starred the late, Dana Plato from Diff'rent Strokes. Good times.

FC Dallas Season In Review

The pace is a bit slow, but this is actually a good season in review video from FCD-TV. My basic storyline is: Cooper leaves, Cunningham scores goals...and man, that Cooper half field shot seems like forever ago.


Here are all the goals from FC Dallas during 2009.

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Thursday, November 26, 2009

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

We here at Sterlinho would like to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. May it be filled with happiness, loved ones and over eating.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Dempsey on his brace

Philly Union Expansion Draft Picks


I'm left scratching my head on a few of these. Definitely not the guys that I would have taken, but I'm not Polish like Nowak. I'll post later my 10 selections but for now I give you the first official players for the Philadelphia Union.
MF Andrew Jacobson (D.C. United) age 24
F Alejandro Moreno (Columbus) 30
D Shavar Thomas (Chivas USA) 28
GK Brad Knighton (New England) 24
F Nick Zimmerman (New York) 22
F Sebastien Le Toux (Seattle) 25
MF Shea Salinas (San Jose) 23
MF Stefani Miglioranzi (Los Angeles) 32
D Dave Myrie (Chicago) 21
D Jordan Harvey (Colorado) 25

MLS Cup Weekend


(Harkes in the back seat of Sterlinho's ride)




Sorry, I haven't posted in a while. I've been pretty sick the last couple of days and I'm assuming the crazy weekend I had contributed to it. Even though I got sick, I don't care, I had one of the best times of my life! It was Epic. Not only did Sterlinho and I chill at Kell's Irish Pub with all the Designated Players, we got a chance to meet John Harkes, Chris Pontius, Roger Levesque, Alexi Lalas and a few others. It was bananas, everyone was having a great time. Especially Sterlinho and I as we were trying so hard to not be star struck.

In meeting all the "soccer celebs," I got to hangout with a guy named Simon Evans who works for Reuters. He's a pretty interesting fellow, who had some great ideas and thoughts on our writing and our site. We also seemed to connect well since we're both from Miami, Florida. Here's a link to Simon's latest entry for Reuters.

Another guy who I thought was awesome was Bruce McGuire who has a site called du nord futbol. Bruce had some of the best advice for us and was so great in letting me pick his brain. You can follow Bruce's stuff by clicking here.

The most interesting part of our night was giving a lost John Harkes and a friend of his a ride back to their hotel. It was a pretty fun ride, as Harksey was incredibly lost and if we didn't pick him up it would have been really bad for him. Harkes is one of the nicest blokes you'll ever meet, funny as hell and just down to earth. It was a perfect ending to a perfect night. Kell's you out did yourself and Thanks for a great weekend Seattle.

Too Far?

What really interests me is how crazy some parents get with the big hit. This is why I think most football parents are bone heads. It's a great hit, but seriously uncalled for with how amped the parents get. MAJOR D BAGS.