Major Link Soccer - Busted Brackets Edition

I hope everyone is having as an exciting sports week as I am. Both the MLS season and the Seattle Sounders kicked off on Tuesday in a wet, rainy battle between two favorites in the West. The Sounders would go on to lose 1-0 to the Galaxy in an evenly matched affair. The results of the match were somewhat overshadowed by the surprising news that Blaise Nkufo and the Sounders would be parting ways. I personally wish the big striker good luck in his future endeavors.

The Seattle Sounders head to New York to battle the best team in the East. The Red Bulls will be another tough match-up for the Sounders especially coming off the heels of the game against the Galaxy. It'll be a busy sports weekend for me as the NCAA tournament continues. My bracket is busted, but my favorite team has a chance to make it to the Sweet Sixteen this year. The Huskies are also playing today. Go Zags! Go Huskies! 

Seattle vs. LA in Pictures: Despite the result the game against LA was a fun one to watch. Lots of action back on both sides of the pitch although the passing and finishing of both teams was marred by the heavy rain. You can see pictures from the match here, here and here. A match recap and video highlights are available on the Sounders website.   

More after the jump:

Different Views on Nkufo's Departure: The sudden departure of Nkufo was a shock to almost everyone and the fall-out isn't quite over yet. At least it ended quickly rather than becoming a festering distraction to the team and the fans. The official line from the Sounders office remains that it was a mutual decision for the benefit of both Nkufo and the club. Sportpress Northwest has a good breakdown of the incident. Nkufo joins a less than impressive list of short-timer designated players, but contributed more than most in his short time here. The move will most likely free a lot of roster space, a DP slot and an international spot for further signings this year.

Meet Erin Mayovsky: Those of you watching the recent Community Shield match against Colorado, you probably noticed a new face on the sidelines for the Sounders. Erin Mayovsky is the new sideline reporter Sounders broadcasts on KING and KONG. She's a local who played soccer for Shorecrest High School and went to the University of Washington. You can see a video interview with Erin here. 

RSL Defeats Saprissa: Real Salt Lake secured a 2-0 victory at home against Costa Rican powerhouse Deportivo Saprissa. Fabian Espindola was the story of the match with his activity opening up scoring chances for RSL. The vaunted defense of RSL looked solid as usual despite Jamison Olave leaving the lineup at half-time due to a hamstring injury. RSL will go next to Estadio Saprissa to defend their two goal lead and a shot at the championship of the CONCACAF Champions League. 

RSL Faces the SJ Earthquakes: RSL opens up their quest for the MLS Cup with a game on Saturday against the San Jose Earthquakes. The Earthquakes should compete for a spot in the playoffs this year despite letting their first designated player Geovanni go during the off-season  However, even if Chris Wondolowski continues his amazing form, the Earthquakes will have a tough time beating the best team in the West. Three questions for the match are available at RSL Soapbox.

Agudelo is Healthy: Young, dynamic striker Juan Agudelo suffered an injury and missed most of the preseason for the New York Red Bulls. Agudelo has returned to health and will likely start up top with Thierry Henry this Saturday against the Sounders. Also, Joel Lindpere has decided to forgo the rigors of international football this year to focus on the Red Bulls.    

Ochocinco Tries out with KC: Chad Ochocinco is one of the best in the game. The game of throw-ball. The Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver has decided to use the likely longer than expected NFL off-season to try out another sport that he loves. Sporting KC have invited Ochocinco to training camp. The trial ends today although there is no word if he has made the team. Sporting KC start their season tomorrow with a game against Chivas USA. 

Earls Returns to Colorado: Danny Earls has been spotted in training with the Colorado Rapids. The Sounders acquired Earls in a trade with Colorado last season, but released the young Irishman late in preseason. The Rapids could use more depth in the wings and Earls knows the system. The Colorado Rapids play the Portland Timbers this Saturday.