Sunday night’s 1-1 draw between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Portland Timbers was not pretty. After the tension of last week’s meeting and all the fallout that ensued, I was expecting an interesting game.

Adam Jahn

First, I need to get one thing out of the way. If you read my post following the last game, you may have wondered why I did not mention anything about the Alan Gordon debacle. Truth be told, I somehow managed to not hear about it until the next day. Needless to say I was very disappointed by the news that he had directed a homophobic slur toward Portland’s Will Johnson. The topic has no doubt already been beaten to death by the media, so I will content myself with saying that while I was upset by the occurrence, I was glad that he came out immediately after the match to apologize. Some players wait a few days to do so, or fail to say anything at all. It is refreshing to see a player who is humble enough to admit he was in the wrong, without any public prompting or pressure.

In addition to all the less-than-friendly feelings between the two sides, the club recently put the 1906 Ultras (the Quakes’ biggest, most intense fan group) on probation due to events that transpired between San Jose and Portland fans following last weeks match. As such, Section 109 was ever so slightly more subdued than usual.  On top of all this, there was a heightened security presence throughout the entire stadium due to the tragic events of this past week at the Boston Marathon. The atmosphere throughout the stadium seemed slightly off, as if no one was quite sure what to expect.

The Quakes came out and had some good chances, but were unable to convert any for most of the game. They went down 0-1 in the 58′ minute when DP Diego Valeri scored off a deflected Ryan Johnson shot.  It looked like the game was going to end with the same scoreline as last week when the newest Goonie of the bunch–and hero in the game against the New York Red Bulls–rookie Adam Jahn scored in the 92′ off a multi-touch play that had started all the way in the back with a restart from keeper Jon Busch.

The other highlight of the night was seeing Steven Beitashour and Marvin Chavez make their first appearances of 2013 after having been out with injuries. Even that was somewhat marred by the fact that Gordon was not out there with them. It seemed to me that Steven Lenhart especially was feeling the loss of his fellow Bash Brother. He took the brunt of the physicality from the Timbers, and appeared even more fiery than usual.

While snatching a point at the end almost felt like a win for the fans, San Jose will be disappointed not to have gotten the full 3 points at home–especially as they have not beaten Portland since the Timbers entered the league in 2011. The Earthquakes will hope for a better result as they travel to LA to take on Chivas USA next weekend.

Image courtesy of SJEarthquakes.com (John Todd/ISIPhotos)

It was a somewhat lackluster night for the San Jose Earthquakes as they fell 1-0 to the Portland Timbers Sunday. Although Chris Wondolowski, Alan Gordon and Steven Lenhart all started for the first time this season, they were unable to create their usual magic. Wondo stayed under the radar for most of the night, which is fairly standard for him. Usually, however, he surfaces at the right moment to score goals. Tonight, his biggest chance came in the final minutes and was a header that went straight into the hands of Portland keeper Donovan Ricketts.

Will Johnson

Neither side had very many chances, with San Jose logging three shots on target and Portland two. While Portland had most of the possession, the Quakes stayed in it up until the 69′ minute when Gordon was sent off for receiving a second yellow card. He jumped up to win a ball and (apparently unintentionally) caught Mikael Silvestre in the lip with his elbow, drawing blood from Silvestre and chants of “Send him off!” from the crowd. The ref did just that.

Following the send-off, I think the team would have been happy to accept a point. They managed to hold on for almost 10 minutes, until Ramiro Corrales tackled Kalif Alhassan. Will Johnson stepped up to take the free kick and sent it curling past Quakes keeper Jon Busch. Although the Quakes stepped up the pressure, they were unable to find the equalizer.

The sequel will be played out this Sunday. Tonight’s game was pretty chippy, with four bookings (including Gordon’s red card). I expect a few more will be handed out when the Timbers come to visit Buck Shaw.

Photo courtesy of SJEarthquakes.com

We have a soft spot around here for defenders. When we close our eyes, we daydream about hanging out with Carlos Bocanegra, having a laugh with Geoff Cameron, talking style with Maurice Edu, waiting for Zach Loyd to give us a call (it would help if I gave him my number). And then sometimes we just have lots of feels for Steve Cherundolo because you’d be crazy to overlook that level of greatness. But if we spent all our time talking about them – you’d never know about Mike Chabala!

Mike Chabala is currently with the Houston Dynamo. The 28-year-old Fresno native has previously played for the Dynamo (2006-2011), he would go on loan with the Timbers and Austin Aztex before finally joining the Portland Timbers in 2011 and in 2012 do a spot with DC United.

Here’s Mike giving his best smoldering stare…I’m sure I had other things to do but now they don’t even matter.

Now, Mike has model good looks as evidenced here from Portland’s Fashion Week…

Here he is in a suit and tie, I’m sure he’s being asked about important things…like his thoughts on the current socio-economic decisions in third world countries or maybe they just want to know what hair products he uses. Personally, I want to tap the girl’s shoulder behind her and ask why she is trying hard not to notice there is a likely demigod in her presence.

Mike became the first soccer player to join the NoH8 Campaign in 2011.

And in 2011 he also did a photoshoot with Out Magazine. When asked why he had done the NoH8 campaign he said, “I think all discrimination is completely wrong. I believe in equality, plain and simple.” Brb, moving to Houston.

But it’s not all runways and charitable causes, Mike likes to hang out with his friends. Yup, that is Stu Holden there along with Brian Ching, Bobby Boswell and Erik Ustruck for a boy’s night out.

Before we leave you this week, we found this gif (now, I know it is heartbreaking for any Galaxy fan to see since the game was a loss 3-0 but I just couldn’t ignore it). Not only is he doing great work for charities and helping kids but he also knows how to karate chop!

You can find our new favorite defender, Mike on Twitter at @MikeChabala. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter too at @AerysSoccer and like us on Facebook!

Remember when we said that we would never ever forget to update and that we would always have a post? Well, our fearless leader, Trista had a birthday and everyone should be fully aware that tequila should be barred from ever touching these lips. What’s that? Trista lives many miles from me? I suppose I am the only one that celebrates a birthday long distance. Whatever the case, here we go! And we should really have a sit down with MLS players and the fact they rarely remove their jerseys. On the rare chance they do – well we get a nice dose of under armour. The horror! Seriously, Landon Donovan just cannot uphold this tradition for the entire league. I mean he could but surely there is someone! Anyway, onto what we’re all here for…

MLS Rivalry Week will reach a pitched fever on Saturday afternoon when Seattle Sounders FC meet the Portland Timbers in the latest installment of their Cascadia Cup rivalry at CenturyLink Field. What better way to celebrate this memorable weekend than to oogle the guys?

 Fredy Montero holding the imaginary ladies back…

 Eddie Johnson flexing…well, I’m not sure what muscle that is but we can all appreciate.

 Andy Rose applauding my efforts…for the next photo

 Brad Evans in Hulk Mode…really, it’s fine…I think we will live if we don’t see your abs but please keep going…I won’t stop you.

 Sal Zizzo is what I would imagine Derek Zoolander to be like if he was a soccer player for the Timbers.

If you don’t know Darlington Nagbe – take a moment to watch him play this weekend…he’s a creative player that constantly creates chances for his team.

Jack Jewsbury taking a corner kick…and obviously a view for us to enjoy.

And there you have it! The guys are shy but I think Brad Evans might be coming to the darkside. He should tell his teammates that it’s fun and we have cookies and other goodies. I’m like Switzerland when it comes to Cascadia Cup but I can say that nothing is better than the supporters for each team that constantly up the ante for supporter groups everywhere.

Stay with the ladies of Aerys Soccer as we continue on covering MLS and post recaps of La Liga and EPL. Also, follow us on Twitter at @AerysSoccer!

Wow…what a game in the Rose City tonight against the New York Red Bulls and Portland Timbers! Mike Petke and Caleb Porter were both coming out with teams for the first time and let’s just say we were all entertained. From start to finish, this was not for the faint of heart. The Timbers Army even came out with an impressive tifo that was a nod to the Morton’s Salt Girl.

Fabian Espindola wasted no time in giving the New York Red Bulls their first goal of the 2013 season in the 9th minute against the Portland Timbers. He would once again capture a second goal in the 24th minute only after the Timbers got their equalizer in the 14th minute by Diego Valeri. NYRB’s Juninho (not to be confused with the Galaxy’s Juninho) would send a corner kick to Heath Pearce that would find its way to Olave where a third goal would happen in the 28th minute. It would stay that way until after half time but that does not mean anyone took the pedal off the gas. Each side had their chances but both defended well.

The second half at JELD-WELD looked promising for the Red Bulls and it looked like they had a few chances to capture the lead but whatever Caleb Porter told his team in the locker room, it looked like that they were not conceding anymore goals. Portland Timbers were ready and willing to do whatever they had to do to get a win.

And those goals? Yeah, they happened in the 56th minute from Nagbe and once last time by Valencia in the 83rd minute. Both teams share the point and New York goes home to prepare for their home opener on March 16th against DC United.

With an attendance of over 20,000 supporters, JELD-WELD had an electrified feeling. It definitely is something that this MLS supporter would love to experience one day. The last time New York played, they came back from being down two and had the same result of a 3-3. Showing us all that yes, they can share a point but I think we would much rather have the 3 points. Both teams are hungry that they will both be games to watch this 2013 season.

And now, let’s see Fabian’s first goal for NYRB! Check out the link below!

Espindola takes advantage of a mishap

Keep up with the 2013 MLS season with the ladies of Aerys Soccer at @AerysSoccer! 

It’s almost time ladies and gents! We’re 2 days away from the 2013 MLS season! To get you geared up for an exciting weekend, it’s time to run through all of the new jerseys some of the MLS teams will be unveiling this season.

Let’s start things off with New York Red Bulls. Our NY writer, Dani has your complete coverage on the night over here.

Red Bulls Primary Jersey

Philadelphia Union decided to “kick it old school” with their new third kits. It’s a slick look that took more than two years to create. You can read more on how they came up with the new look over here.

Union 3rd Jersey

Colorado Rapids took it to a whole new level with their kits. In place of the hoops on their home jersey, the Rapids decided to put the names of their season ticket holders. Interesting, but pretty awesome. The Rapids also decided to pay homage to Colorado by using the state flag colors on their new second kits.

Rapids Home Jersey

Rapids Second Jersey

Houston Dynamo decided to keep things simple and clean. They are keeping the same third kit from last year, and adding the saying “Forever Orange” to their new kits. They also added the Texas state flag and a tape design after their new BBVA stadium.

Dynamo Primary Jersey

Keeping on the track of paying homage to their cities or states, Toronto FC is at the top of the list. With their new designs, the maple leaf stands out and the jersey is crisp and clean. TFC also added the saying “All For One” on the back of their jersey.

TFC Primary Jersey

Montreal Impact kept their jersey the “old style” and stayed traditional with the collar and buttons. It is a throwback style to their very first jersey they had in 1993. You can read more and watch a video over here.

Impact 3rd Jersey

Sporting KC showed off their primary jersey with a new style as they decided to pay tribute to Kansas and Missouri. They also have a new sponsor, Ivy Funds, which dominates most of the jersey with their logo.  SKC’s jersey also has two Sporting logos; one on the front and one on the back. Nice little details that make up a terrific jersey.

SKC Primary Jersey

Seattle Sounders went back to their signature “rave green” in their new Primary jersey. It features the space needle on the left side in a silver tone. For their secondary ones, they went opposite of their bright jersey, with a black one. It features lime green stripes that pop against the black and out of all the new 2013 jerseys, it’s a personal favorite for me.

Seattle Primary Jersey

Seattle Secondary Jersey

Vancouver Whitecaps kept it simple with their new primary kits. The cool white jersey is off set with the navy diagonal stripes. It’s a classic and crisp look. Simple, and to the point!

Whitecaps Primary Jersey

For LA Galaxy’s new second kit, talk about classy. To tie in with the Galaxy theme adidas decided to put the Quasar as apart of the shoulder and bottom detail. You can read my article on LA’s new kit, plus other things over here. 

LA Galaxy 2nd Jersey

Portland Timbers released their new jersey, and the look is crisp and clean. The kits feature the Timbers Army chant on the inside of the collar. Nice little addition to pay tribute to their loyal fans. You can read more on the new kits over here.

Timbers Primary Jersey

Timbers Secondary Jersey

There you have it! Look for the new kits as the teams take the field this weekend, and during the 2013 season. If you want to order any of them you can do so on MLSgear.com.

Don’t forget to follow @AerysSoccer on twitter to keep up with all of the latest news, and game highlights from First Kick!

Well this is it! We’re are days, just days away from First Kick 2013 in Major League Soccer! Already, the expectations are high and the ladies here at Aerys Soccer cannot wait for the teams to hit the pitches again.

As we gear up for this season, we’re still looking for some writers to cover teams in MLS. Do you love talking about your favorite team? Feel the need to write up a rant or gush about a new player? Need to call out your coach or sing the praises of your favorite forward? Check out the graphic below listing the teams we have openings for and if you’re interested, let us know!

Hmmm, some great MLS teams listed! If you’re a fan of one or of the league in general, shoot me an e-mail at trista.lutgring@gmail.com! We’d love to bring you on board!

And as always, make sure to follow us at @AerysSoccer as we dive into MLS 2013

Get ready everyone, the 2013 MLS Season is almost here! Here are the 2013 home openers for all 19 teams!

 Saturday, March 2:

Philadelphia Union vs. Sporting Kansas City (PPL Park)
FC Dallas vs. Colorado Rapids (FC Dallas Stadium)
Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. Toronto FC (BC Place)
Houston Dynamo vs. D.C. United (BBVA Compass Stadium)
Seattle Sounders FC vs. Montreal Impact (CenturyLink Field)
Chivas USA vs. Columbus Crew (The Home Depot Center)

Sunday, March 3:

LA Galaxy vs. Chicago Fire (The Home Depot Center)
Portland Timbers vs. New York Red Bulls (JELD-WEN Field)
San Jose Earthquakes vs. Real Salt Lake (Buck Shaw Stadium)

Saturday, March 9:

Toronto FC vs. Sporting Kansas City (TBD)
D.C. United vs. Real Salt Lake (RFK Stadium)
Colorado Rapids vs. Philadelphia Union (Dick’s Sporting Goods Park)
Chicago Fire vs. New England Revolution (Toyota Park)

Saturday, March 16:

New York Red Bulls vs. D.C. United (Red Bull Arena)
Sporting Kansas City vs. Chicago Fire (Livestrong Sporting Park)
Real Salt Lake vs. Colorado Rapids (Rio Tinto Stadium)
Montreal Impact vs. Toronto FC (Olympic Stadium)
Columbus Crew vs. San Jose Earthquakes (Crew Stadium)

Saturday, March 23:

New England Revolution vs. FC Dallas (Gillette Stadium)

2013 is going to be one great MLS year!

Try saying that 10 times fast!

Ok guys, I’ll be honest.  I am too emotionally worn out by the Quakes final regular season match to give much analysis, but I will present to you my (possibly somewhat confusing) thoughts after tonight’s game at Portland:

1. Sigh. Wondo. With 27 goals, you were so close, yet so far.

2. But then again, WONDO! Tying a record that has stood for 16 years is no small feat.  He is still in the history books.  He is still awesome.  Extra points for keeping cool enough to convert a penalty kick.  We’re still ok.

3. We’re still OK?!  We’re fantastic!  We won the Supporters’ Shield, for crying out loud!

4. But San Jose just tried too hard to get the ball to Wondo.  His teammates wanted it so badly for him.

5. Then again, lest we forget, Wondo has won the Golden Boot.  By like a hundred goals.  Ok, closer to 10, but still.  And he is the first in MLS history to be the top scorer 3 years in a row.  We’ll take it.

6. But we have never beat Portland.  ”How can that be?” you may ask.  Who knows?

7. And oh yes… we are going to the playoffs!

So now you have a small idea of what is going on in my mind.  Prepare yourself for the emotional roller coaster that will be the playoffs.    I kid.  (Not really.)

Image courtesy of Center Line Soccer’s Facebook page.

Dejan Jakovic of DC United is upended by Bright Dike of the Portland Timbers

It was an evenly matched back and forth kind of game last night between DC United and the Portland Timbers at JELD-WEN Field.  That was, until the 60th minute.

A controversial hand-ball call on Portland gave United a penalty kick taken by leading scorer Chris Pontius.  The goal, Pontius’ 12th, gave United a 1-0 lead over the Timbers.

Throughout the match, Portland’s Bright Dike made the match more interesting to watch than it might have been otherwise.  The fiery forward missed a number of opportunities, but it was only a matter of time (79th minute) before he got one past United keeper Bill Hamid to even up the score.  It remained 1-1 until the final whistle.

Although they struggle on the road, DC United could have used a win here.  Now they’ll have to settle for the one point and fourth place in the Eastern Conference.  Had they gotten the win, they would have been tied for second along with Chicago and New York.

Feasibly, Portland won’t make the playoffs.  But they can consider themselves spoilers as they prepare themselves for next week’s match in Seattle.  Should the Timbers win on Oct. 7, they will capture the Cascadia Cup title.

As for DC, they will continue their playoff quest on Oct. 6 at Toronto FC.