Major Link Soccer - No Reverse for Reserves Edition

Good morning everyone.  Another week of MLS action is in the books with a 2-2 draw for the Sounders this Saturday against our rivals to the north.  Even diehard supporters of the Vancouver Whitecaps will admit they were a bit lucky to come away with a tie.  You won't often see a no-look goal like Eric Hassli's in MLS.  You can see match highlights here and photos here.

The Sounders reserves are also back in action today.  They take on the LA Galaxy reserve team at 11:00 on the Starfire pitch.  They'll be looking to extend their record to 6 wins and zero losses.  It should be a great game.  I'll be there with my nos audietis scarf.  I'm the dark-haired, bearded guy with glasses (yes I know that describes half of Seattle's guys).  So say hi if you see me in the crowd!

More links after the jump:

Problems Ahead for USMNT: The US lost a 2-1 stunner to a lively Panamanian team this weekend.  The young central defense of the U.S. wasn't able to contain a Panamanian team that continually pushed forward into the attack and the young forwards of the US team weren't able to capitalize on space and opportunities in the attacking third.  The US will need a win tomorrow against Guadeloupe to advance.  The Panamanian win also makes the likelihood of the Canadians advancing very slim.

Zusi What?: I have to admit Graham Zusi wasn't on my radar until this weekend.  He was one of those youngish, talented midfielders who hadn't really broken out yet.  I looked right over him when I was searching for Sporting Kansas City (Sporks) midfielders for my ESPN FC Manager team.  Boy I wish I hadn't.  The guy was on fire Sunday.  He had an absolute laser of a strike from 45 yards out to beat Kevin Hartman.  It was his second of the match and the season.  

Rochester Denied: The Rochester Rhinos have been a consistently successful minor league team since the mid 1990s.  They regularly bring in good crowds and even won the Open Cup 1999.  Unfortunately, they've fallen off the MLS expansion radar recently.  The linked article is a good read on how far the league has come in the last decade and the struggles of a small market team.  Thanks to Dave Clark for sending me the link.  

Spencer Flight Attendant: There's actually a great new co-promo spot for the Portland Timbers with Alaska Airlines.  Coach John Spencer gets in the grill of the passengers on an airplane.  I know it's the Timbers, but its still worth 30 seconds of your time.