The buzz seems to be that John Spencer, former Colorado Rapids hitman and current Houston Dynamo assistant coach, is in the running to become the Head Coach of the Portland Timbers beginning 2011.
The basis of the rumor is that Spencer turned down the opportunity to interview for the DC United coaching position because he wanted to keep his family in Houston.
I'm not sure how credible the information is, but it comes via Bernardo Fallas- a solid MLS reporter in the Houston area.
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/soc/6777409.html
I personally like and respect Spencer from his days at Colorado. And he seems to be an integral part of a solid team and organization in Houston. The Dynamo are a tight, cohesive unit, whom, every time they step on the field, it seems like they expect to win. I'd like that sort of mentality to be adopted here in the Pacific Northwest. And, being Spencer's first head coaching position, I'm certain he'd relish the challenge, even if there would be rookie mistakes along the way.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Offseason Wish List
1) A new Forward
Keita did the business this year, but he isn't the Real Deal- yet. Maybe I should be patient, and give the kid some time. But I want another dangerous forward that defenses are afraid of.
While watching the Northwest Derby, it was clear that Fredy Montero, and even Nate Jaqua, are a class above Keita. If we could add another forward, of Keita's quality or above, I think the Timbers will be playoff favorites next season.
2) Re-sign the Stars
In no particular order, Gavin Wilkinson needs to lock up next year's contracts for:
-Stephen Keel
-David Hayes
-Ryan Pore (who's already locked for 2010, if I'm not mistaken)
-Scot Thompson: After the first couple games, Scot re-entered the lineup, and the Timbers defense was the better for it. He's still the face of the Club.
3) Cameron Knowles, heal thyself!
-We need you for all of next year. It's clear that part of the drop-off at the end of 2009 was because the defense missed you. Be patient, and come back next year healthier and stronger.
4) Arrange solid friendlies
-Liked the Burnley friendly this year, but how about this:
-1st Division Mexican club (who bring their starters)
-European 1st team, with an American on their Roster. I'm thinking... Rennes (Carlos Bocanegra) or Hannover 96 (Steve Cherundolo- a Northwest native, no?)
5) Work out the USL vs. Team Owners Association fight, so that I can stop being worried about whether the 2010 season is going to happen at all!
Keita did the business this year, but he isn't the Real Deal- yet. Maybe I should be patient, and give the kid some time. But I want another dangerous forward that defenses are afraid of.
While watching the Northwest Derby, it was clear that Fredy Montero, and even Nate Jaqua, are a class above Keita. If we could add another forward, of Keita's quality or above, I think the Timbers will be playoff favorites next season.
2) Re-sign the Stars
In no particular order, Gavin Wilkinson needs to lock up next year's contracts for:
-Stephen Keel
-David Hayes
-Ryan Pore (who's already locked for 2010, if I'm not mistaken)
-Scot Thompson: After the first couple games, Scot re-entered the lineup, and the Timbers defense was the better for it. He's still the face of the Club.
3) Cameron Knowles, heal thyself!
-We need you for all of next year. It's clear that part of the drop-off at the end of 2009 was because the defense missed you. Be patient, and come back next year healthier and stronger.
4) Arrange solid friendlies
-Liked the Burnley friendly this year, but how about this:
-1st Division Mexican club (who bring their starters)
-European 1st team, with an American on their Roster. I'm thinking... Rennes (Carlos Bocanegra) or Hannover 96 (Steve Cherundolo- a Northwest native, no?)
-Celtic, just a personal favorite
5) Work out the USL vs. Team Owners Association fight, so that I can stop being worried about whether the 2010 season is going to happen at all!
Top 5 Moments from 2009
1) Northwest Derby, U.S. Open Cup vs. Seattle
This match was absolutely electric in the stands. You could feel the energy as you walked up to PGE Park. A packed house. The Boys played their hearts out. And the crowd was riveted. Despite losing, I was enormously proud of the team for never giving up.
This was also the match that Steve Cronin won me over. I was suspicious of him from his LA Galaxy days. But in the 2nd half, you could see how much he wanted to win this game. I will never forget him giving Sanna Nyassi an earful, while the Seattle player feigned injury on the ground towards the end of the game. Cronin's a competitor, and just couldn't stand seeing a player trying to cheat his way into winning.
2) 0-0 Draw at Cleveland City early in the season
It was a 0-0 draw, but this game showed how different the 2009 version of the Timbers would be. Portland was rampaging down both sidelines all game long, searching for a victory. This was the game where I could tell that I would like this team.
3) The Streak
Is there anything more to be said about the Streak? That's a statement of what this Club is capable of achieving.
4) The Newcomers
Hayes is a cultured left back that added a significant attacking dimension to this year's team.
Pore seems like a model professional, who quietly goes out onto the field to win and run his legs off. And what speedy legs they are.
Keel: my favorite new player this season. Here's a guy who wears his heart on his sleeve. At the end of the season, after we had locked up a playoff spot and probably the division, Stephen Keel was pushing his teammates, getting into scraps, and fighting through every minute of the remaining home games. His performance against Austin made me realize he is the new Captain of this team. A definite Leader.
5) Gavin's Redemption
I was seriously questioning Gavin Wilkinson's credibility as the Manager of this club. A very solid 2007 season merely papered over the cracks in his personnel and tactics. 2008 showed him what a few unlucky bounces of the ball could do for his team in the standings. But credit to Merrit Paulson, who stuck with Coach. Wilkinson took the criticism, and went out and got the players he needed to change the style of this soccer team. After 5 games, we were an attacking, athletic, and agressive team, especially down the spine, and other teams took notice. I'm grateful for Paulson's patience. And for Wilkinson's fortitude.
You guys have any memorable moments from this year you'd like to share?
This match was absolutely electric in the stands. You could feel the energy as you walked up to PGE Park. A packed house. The Boys played their hearts out. And the crowd was riveted. Despite losing, I was enormously proud of the team for never giving up.
This was also the match that Steve Cronin won me over. I was suspicious of him from his LA Galaxy days. But in the 2nd half, you could see how much he wanted to win this game. I will never forget him giving Sanna Nyassi an earful, while the Seattle player feigned injury on the ground towards the end of the game. Cronin's a competitor, and just couldn't stand seeing a player trying to cheat his way into winning.
2) 0-0 Draw at Cleveland City early in the season
It was a 0-0 draw, but this game showed how different the 2009 version of the Timbers would be. Portland was rampaging down both sidelines all game long, searching for a victory. This was the game where I could tell that I would like this team.
3) The Streak
Is there anything more to be said about the Streak? That's a statement of what this Club is capable of achieving.
4) The Newcomers
Hayes is a cultured left back that added a significant attacking dimension to this year's team.
Pore seems like a model professional, who quietly goes out onto the field to win and run his legs off. And what speedy legs they are.
Keel: my favorite new player this season. Here's a guy who wears his heart on his sleeve. At the end of the season, after we had locked up a playoff spot and probably the division, Stephen Keel was pushing his teammates, getting into scraps, and fighting through every minute of the remaining home games. His performance against Austin made me realize he is the new Captain of this team. A definite Leader.
5) Gavin's Redemption
I was seriously questioning Gavin Wilkinson's credibility as the Manager of this club. A very solid 2007 season merely papered over the cracks in his personnel and tactics. 2008 showed him what a few unlucky bounces of the ball could do for his team in the standings. But credit to Merrit Paulson, who stuck with Coach. Wilkinson took the criticism, and went out and got the players he needed to change the style of this soccer team. After 5 games, we were an attacking, athletic, and agressive team, especially down the spine, and other teams took notice. I'm grateful for Paulson's patience. And for Wilkinson's fortitude.
You guys have any memorable moments from this year you'd like to share?
Won the Division, but Lost the Cup
Congratulations to the Timbers on winning the Division. YESSSSS!!! I wanted to win it. Losing in the playoffs is disappointing, but the 1st place finish and the Streak made this a Timbers season to remember. Not to mention the record-breaking attendance figures for the year.
My Awards:
MVP: Stephen Keel
Newcomer: Ryan Pore
Defender of the Year: Hayes
Gavin Wilkinson deserves tremendous credit for turning around this year's team from the 2008 version. He got most of the personnel spot-on. And put together a tough, winning team that the city can be proud of. Gav-in Wilk-in-son, (clap) (clap) (clap) (clap) (clap)
My Awards:
MVP: Stephen Keel
Newcomer: Ryan Pore
Defender of the Year: Hayes
Gavin Wilkinson deserves tremendous credit for turning around this year's team from the 2008 version. He got most of the personnel spot-on. And put together a tough, winning team that the city can be proud of. Gav-in Wilk-in-son, (clap) (clap) (clap) (clap) (clap)
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Northwest Derby
In an hour and a half, I board the bus to PGE Park to see the Boys take on Disney FC from our neighbors to the North.
I have looked forward to this game for a long time. The fact that we only get to play Seattle once a season (assuming US Open Cup qualification) makes this game even more important.
It's close to a sellout attendance-wise.
I really, really want this win.
I may be a bit different than other Timbers fans. I want to beat Seattle more than any other team in North America- hell, the world. Nothing is so satisfying.
But when Seattle plays anyone in MLS, I have a Pacific Northwest pride that hopes Seattle comes out on top. It helps not being in the same division as the Flounders. But I want people in the rest of the country to know that the Pacific Northwest is the place to be for soccer. (And beer.)
So I will cheer and sing tonight from the top of my lungs, and after beating them, I'll wish them well with the MLS season.
1 hour, 20 minutes and counting...
I have looked forward to this game for a long time. The fact that we only get to play Seattle once a season (assuming US Open Cup qualification) makes this game even more important.
It's close to a sellout attendance-wise.
I really, really want this win.
I may be a bit different than other Timbers fans. I want to beat Seattle more than any other team in North America- hell, the world. Nothing is so satisfying.
But when Seattle plays anyone in MLS, I have a Pacific Northwest pride that hopes Seattle comes out on top. It helps not being in the same division as the Flounders. But I want people in the rest of the country to know that the Pacific Northwest is the place to be for soccer. (And beer.)
So I will cheer and sing tonight from the top of my lungs, and after beating them, I'll wish them well with the MLS season.
1 hour, 20 minutes and counting...
Mid-term Grades
I've been out of town until recently, and have only been able to watch games on USLLive.com (which is FREE and is essential to fans of American soccer).
So here are my Midterm grades:
Forwards: B
-Scoring some goals, and Keita is developing. But I'm not quite confident that this is a first-class strike force.
Midfield: A
-GREATLY improved over last year. Now there's pace aplently from Farber, a hometown kid in Nimo, and pace & skill from Pore.
Defense: A
-Solid as a rock. Scot with 1 T is still my favorite player. But the defense has something to contribute this year, in addition to shutouts, and it's the crossing and set-pieces of David Hayes. But Gavin, give the fella a rest once in awhile!
Goalkeeping: B+
-It's nice to finally have a permanent goalkeeper after last year's rent-a-goalie fiasco. Cronin has all the physical tools, and is developing confidence and familiarity with the backline. I just hope he stays healthy, because Visser has potential- but is not a starting USL-1 goalkeeper at this point. (A nice pickup would be Wilmington's GK who looked impressive in US Open Cup wins against Carolina and Chicago).
The Boss: A-
-Great improvement on personnel, especially speed in the midfield (which is a necessity in this division), and the team truly has a winning mentality.
It's been a great start to the season. And I'm happy being back in the Rose City. I caught my first game of the season against Montreal and it was fantastic. The team was confident; the team played like goals were inevitable. And it was nice to be back in the Army atmosphere, rather than staring at a computer screen in the dead of night.
I want the First Division Trophy!
So here are my Midterm grades:
Forwards: B
-Scoring some goals, and Keita is developing. But I'm not quite confident that this is a first-class strike force.
Midfield: A
-GREATLY improved over last year. Now there's pace aplently from Farber, a hometown kid in Nimo, and pace & skill from Pore.
Defense: A
-Solid as a rock. Scot with 1 T is still my favorite player. But the defense has something to contribute this year, in addition to shutouts, and it's the crossing and set-pieces of David Hayes. But Gavin, give the fella a rest once in awhile!
Goalkeeping: B+
-It's nice to finally have a permanent goalkeeper after last year's rent-a-goalie fiasco. Cronin has all the physical tools, and is developing confidence and familiarity with the backline. I just hope he stays healthy, because Visser has potential- but is not a starting USL-1 goalkeeper at this point. (A nice pickup would be Wilmington's GK who looked impressive in US Open Cup wins against Carolina and Chicago).
The Boss: A-
-Great improvement on personnel, especially speed in the midfield (which is a necessity in this division), and the team truly has a winning mentality.
It's been a great start to the season. And I'm happy being back in the Rose City. I caught my first game of the season against Montreal and it was fantastic. The team was confident; the team played like goals were inevitable. And it was nice to be back in the Army atmosphere, rather than staring at a computer screen in the dead of night.
I want the First Division Trophy!
Monday, February 23, 2009
2009 Roster Update
Let's take a look at how the 2009 Timbers roster is shaping up:
(from portlandtimbers.com)
Portland Timbers Roster »
Forwards »
Jallow, Antou
Josten, George
Keita, Mandjou
McLaughlin, Jason
Midfielders »
Cameron, Josh
Claesson, Johan
Farber, Brian
Guante, Miguel
Lara, Ricardo "Kiki"
McManus, Tony
Olum, Lawrence
Poltl, Tom
Savage, Keith
Defenders »
Dunn, Cameron
Knowles, Cameron
Thompson, Scot
Vua, Dieumerci
Goalkeepers
(None?)
Okay, so there will obviously be some changes before opening day. A goalkeeper or 2 is definitely in order. Gavin Wilkinson may be waiting on MLS Rosters to be finalized before seeing what other talent is available.
The Roster has a lot of size at forward (all 6-footers), short but quick midfielders, and solid starting defenders.
Here are some players I'd be interested in seeing added to the opening day roster:
1) Jamie Watson (FW/Mid/RB): currently on trial at FC Dallas. From the 3rdDegree.net reports (Buzz Carrick's one of the best), it seems that Jamie's having a great spring, but may be cut due to a limitation on roster spots and an abundance of forwards already on the Dallas roster. Watson's fast, can play a number of different positions, and is competitive as hell. He just needs the opportunity to show his stuff for a whole season.
2) Nico Cololuca (Mid): currently on trial at Colorado Rapids. He tried out for a month with RB New York, but was unsuccessful. He's a young and talented midfielder, who may be on his way out of Colorado.
3) Josh Lambo (GK): a Generation Adidas player at Dallas. He wants a chance to get some playing time. Portland doesn't have any keepers on their roster. A more local option would be Austin- but I'm pretty sure they signed their PDL keeper to a contract. He's a young and talented GK for the US U-20s.
4) Kyle Veris (Def): Played for Los Angeles and in Norway; currently on trial with DC United. He's a big defender with decent speed. He could provide depth and competition for our backline.
Goalscoring was a huge problem last year. Has Gavin's roster changes added speed and goalscoring ability to the roster? I'm not convinced. I remember far too many scoreless ties or losses at PGE Park last year.
Still some time before opening day. Anybody you guys would like to see added to the roster? Maybe a Pacific NW product or 2?
C'mon you Timbers!
(from portlandtimbers.com)
Portland Timbers Roster »
Forwards »
Jallow, Antou
Josten, George
Keita, Mandjou
McLaughlin, Jason
Midfielders »
Cameron, Josh
Claesson, Johan
Farber, Brian
Guante, Miguel
Lara, Ricardo "Kiki"
McManus, Tony
Olum, Lawrence
Poltl, Tom
Savage, Keith
Defenders »
Dunn, Cameron
Knowles, Cameron
Thompson, Scot
Vua, Dieumerci
Goalkeepers
(None?)
Okay, so there will obviously be some changes before opening day. A goalkeeper or 2 is definitely in order. Gavin Wilkinson may be waiting on MLS Rosters to be finalized before seeing what other talent is available.
The Roster has a lot of size at forward (all 6-footers), short but quick midfielders, and solid starting defenders.
Here are some players I'd be interested in seeing added to the opening day roster:
1) Jamie Watson (FW/Mid/RB): currently on trial at FC Dallas. From the 3rdDegree.net reports (Buzz Carrick's one of the best), it seems that Jamie's having a great spring, but may be cut due to a limitation on roster spots and an abundance of forwards already on the Dallas roster. Watson's fast, can play a number of different positions, and is competitive as hell. He just needs the opportunity to show his stuff for a whole season.
2) Nico Cololuca (Mid): currently on trial at Colorado Rapids. He tried out for a month with RB New York, but was unsuccessful. He's a young and talented midfielder, who may be on his way out of Colorado.
3) Josh Lambo (GK): a Generation Adidas player at Dallas. He wants a chance to get some playing time. Portland doesn't have any keepers on their roster. A more local option would be Austin- but I'm pretty sure they signed their PDL keeper to a contract. He's a young and talented GK for the US U-20s.
4) Kyle Veris (Def): Played for Los Angeles and in Norway; currently on trial with DC United. He's a big defender with decent speed. He could provide depth and competition for our backline.
Goalscoring was a huge problem last year. Has Gavin's roster changes added speed and goalscoring ability to the roster? I'm not convinced. I remember far too many scoreless ties or losses at PGE Park last year.
Still some time before opening day. Anybody you guys would like to see added to the roster? Maybe a Pacific NW product or 2?
C'mon you Timbers!
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