Yesterday's game between the Fire and the Red Bulls may have been one of the most anticipated games in the league's history. The Red Bulls controlled the tempo for most of the game and got opportunity after opportunity to score. Although they didn't score, we got to see what they were made of. And trust me, it will only get better from here.

Over the span of about a month, Red Bull GM Erik Soler has signed former Barcelona stars Thierry Henry and Rafael Marquez. Making these moves shows that the Red Bulls believe they can win the MLS Cup this year. And now that they have made these moves, they should win the MLS Cup.

Pairing Henry up front with Juan Pablo Angel (one of my personal favorite players) gives a dynamic duo that will give defensive lines nightmares. Right now, Angel has twelve goals and one assist.  

With Henry giving teams more to worry about, those numbers will grow, and in time, they will learn each other's tendencies (such as Angel holding the ball for a split second before shooting). I think this is the best forward combo in the league.

Adding Marquez into the mix gives the Red Bulls another world class player who is a great passer and can control the tempo as well as anyone in MLS.  If the Fire game is any indication, he will be a big star in this league. And as he gets fitter and fitter, the Red Bulls get better and better.

Putting these two great players into a team that was already second in the East makes them a threat to win the title. And if they don't, I think that will be a disappointment.  

This will be the most exciting team in the league and as long as Angel, Marquez, and Henry stay, they should be in the title hunt for years to come.

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After an underachieving stretch of matches that highlighted (or lowlighted, depending on your side of spectrum) July and early August, the Los Angeles Galaxy return to Major League Soccer play with nothing else to play for other than the trophies the league has to offer.

The home stretch of the 2010-11 season for Bruce Arena's club begins with a road trip to the Red Bull Arena, where the New York Red Bulls await.

The Galaxy's lead in the overall standings has been reduced to a mere three points. That's because the Columbus Crew sit at 37 points (11-4-4) while the Galaxy are stuck at 40 (12-3-4).

With the race for the Shield entering the final two months of play, every game counts, and every victory will be important. Los Angeles cannot afford to let their efforts go to waste.

Especially with the revamped New York Red Bulls, who have Rafa Marquez and Thierry Henry among their new signings.

Combined with the scoring ability of Juan Pablo Angel, the Red Bulls will stop at nothing to make things miserable for the struggling Galaxy back line. Angel has scored 11 goals for New York this season.

Saturday's match will answer the question as to whether or not the combo of Omar Gonzales, Sean Franklin, Todd Dunivant, and Gregg Berhalter have learned their lesson and clamp down the vaunted Red Bulls attack.

The back line showed their mettle on Saturday against Real Madrid in the first half of their friendly, but will it translate to a result in Harrison, New Jersey on August 14?

A key player to watch outside of the designated players is Macoumba Kandji. He had a chance to get a goal for New York against the Chicago Fire last week in the 47th minute of a match that ended scoreless. Look for the playmaking ability of Dane Richards and Kandji to provide a change-up for Henry and Marquez.

Tim Ream and Roy Miller have done their part in the defense and have the unenviable task of stopping the chances given to Edson Buddle and Landon Donovan, who look to get back on track with their production.

Another key battle to watch out for is at the goalkeeper position.

The reliable Cameroon international Bouma Coundoul has a 1.17 goals against average with 70 saves and a 76.9 percent save percentage for the Red Bulls.

His counterpart, the Galaxy's Donovan Ricketts, has a 0.72 GAA to go with 49 saves and a 79.0 percent save percentage.

Buddle is still Major League Soccer's leading scorer with 12 goals to his credit. Landon Donovan has been the glue to LA's offense, with 11 assists and five goals this season.

Lately, the Buddlevan Connection's production has been lacking, but if midfielders Juninho and Michael Stephens as well as forward Tristan Bowen get open and stretch the defense, it will be trouble on the way for New York in the form of the Galaxy's No. 10 and No. 14.

This is a match the Galaxy must win. I see this becoming a goal festival, with one of the Red Bull designated players getting on the sheet. However, Los Angeles should get more out of this match and get themselves back on track. Let's try this result:

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 PM PT and will be televised by Fox Soccer Channel and Fox Sports en Español.

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For the fifth consecutive game, the New York Red Bulls missed their opportunity to earn a win. With a 0-1-4 record during this span, the Red Bulls are now nine points behind Easter Conference Leader, the Columbus Crew.

This game marked the debut of the Red Bulls' Rafael Marquez playing alongside Juan Pablo Angel and Thierry Henry. Rafa Marquez played for 61 minutes and he made it clear to his his team and Red Bull fans who's in charge. Thierry Henry played aggressively in the first half and almost scored an goal in the 21st minute. He did leave the game in the 45th minute because he suffered a groin strain.

For Chicago this was Nery Castillo's first match with the Chicago Fire, playing with recently traded ex-Seattle Sounder Freddie Ljungberg. When Castillo made his Fire debut in the 56th minute, fireworks went off and the crowd erupted into pandemonium as he entered the pitch. 

For the first time ever in a MLS match, a total of five designated players competed against each other. With all the star power in this game, the game belonged to Chicago Fire's goalkeeper Sean Johnson. With his Herculean effort, he negated the Red Bulls numerous scoring opportunities from Henry, Juan Pablo, and Kandji. Overall, Sean Johnson made seven saves.

Despite the 0-0 tie, both Red Bulls and Chicago fans have reasons to be optimistic for the remainder of the season. For the Red Bulls, with the signings of Thierry Henry and Rafa Marquez, we're seeing a rejuvenated Juan Pablo Angel and Macoumba Kandji.

Currently standing at 5-5-6, Chicago has the fourth-best record in the Eastern Conference. With the tandem of Nery and Ljundberg, the Fire are capable of making a strong to push for the MLS playoffs.

For the second consecutive road game, the New York Red Bulls have drawn over 20,000 fans. Last week, 24,740 MLS fans were in attendance at Robertson Stadium against the Houston Dynamo in a thrilling 2-2 match to watch Thierry Henry make his MLS debut. Tonight Toyota Park had an audience of 21,868 enthusiastic fans in attendance. 

Next up for the 8-6-4 Red Bulls is Toronto FC on Wednesday, Aug. 11 at Red Bull Arena. For the Chicago Fire, they will continue with their late-season push against the New England Revolution on Aug. 18 at the Toyota Park.

Cesar Diaz writes for Latino Sports. Please send him your questions and comments to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  

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While the English Premier League season kicking off in less than a week, we know American star Landon Donovan won’t be playing in England this year, but across the Atlantic for his hometown Galaxy. Donovan had spent three months with Everton in the EPL last season, this year however a transfer to the premier league looks highly unlikely.

MLS commissioner Don Garber has put a hefty price on Donovan in order to keep Donovan in the states. Garber realizes that Donovan is the face of American soccer, the most recognizable American soccer player, and the best player the country has ever produced, he feels the league needs Donovan in order to succeed, but does Donovan need MLS?

 I understand that Garber wants to keep the best American player in America, but how does keeping Donovan in the MLS validate US soccer around the world? Which is the ultimate goal, isn’t it? Wouldn’t it be better if America had its best player playing overseas against better competition, proving that the US can produce world class soccer players?

Garber said “MLS needs soccer heroes, and we have a great American soccer hero playing for us in LA, holding the torch for the sport in our country, and that’s very important. I don’t believe that it’s something we can do without.” However Garber is disregarding the fact that Donovan may have outgrown MLS and it may be time to let Donovan play overseas against stronger competition for the long term.

By keeping Donovan in the MLS, not only is Garber hurting Landon Donovan’s development, but the credibility of US soccer. Considering Donovan is coming off his best season overseas, why keep him in MLS where he won’t develop or continue to show the rest of the world that he can play on the world stage. 

At Everton Donovan was terrific, with Donovan Everton went 7-4-2, including wins over Chelsea and Manchester United. In the world cup finals, Donovan had three goals in four games, including an extra time goal against Algeria that allowed the US team to move on past the group stage. His time at Everton and in the world cup finals validated his status as a world class player.

At 28, Donovan is at the prime of his career, and his experience overseas has been limited. After appearances with Bayern Leverkusen and Bayern Munich, where Donovan got limited playing time, and three months at Everton, it’s time for Donovan to at least have the chance to play overseas for the long term, considering he’s at the prime of his career now.

After the world cup, Donovan drew great interest from the premier league. Teams like Everton and Manchester City, took a serious look at Donovan, however they were scared off by the price tag.  

Everton manger David Moyes would he’d love to have Donovan back, but Everton doesn’t have the finances to overpay for Donovan. Moyes said "Don't you think I've asked my chairman to make it happen? We'd love to have Landon but he looks too expensive for us and we just don't have it ... The price the MLS want for him is very big and it's an additional problem because of his age (28)."

MLS has put this hefty price on Donovan that has made it impossible for Donovan to play overseas. Garber claims it’s Galaxy and Donovan’s decision by saying "I am pleased that he renegotiated his deal for several more years and I hope that he will stay here for the rest of his career ... (but) it's not my decision, it's Landon's decision and L.A. Galaxy's decision." But by putting this hefty transfer fee on Donovan, Garber has done the exact opposite and gained full control of Donovan’s future.

  Donovan did sign a contract that would allow him to be a member of the Galaxy through 2013, but having Donovan continue to perform at a high level overseas not only allows Donovan to grow as a player, but it adds needed credibility to US soccer, and MLS.

Garber is selfishly keeping Donovan in MLS, but in reality it’s in everyone’s best interest if Donovan is playing at the highest level.

If Donovan continues to succeed overseas, MLS gains credibility as a potential hotbed for talent. More of the top teams in the world will want to continue to schedule exhibition games against MLS teams, more European players will want to come play in America, and most importantly more scouts will come to America and recruit, therefore improving the reputations of US soccer and MLS.  

Right now MLS is light years behind the top leagues in the world. MLS did take a step forward when many of the top teams in the world scheduled exhibition games against MLS teams. However the results showed that MLS is still ways away from competing with Europe’s elite. These exhibition games proved that MLS is making progress, but the gap remains huge. MLS is four or five years away from significantly improving and by then Donovan may be past his prime.

MLS commissioner Don Garber and the LA Galaxy need to lower the steep price for Donovan, and set him free. It’s the best option for Donovan, US soccer, and maybe even MLS in the long term.

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Arguably the greatest trio in MLS history played their first game together at Toyota Park in Chicago. Despite numerous chances the final score was 0-0. 

New York's combination of Thierry Henry, Juan Pablo Angel, and Rafael Marquez overshadowed the massive Fire trade for Freddie Ljungberg and the acquisition of Nery Castillo during the pre-game hype. Yet, the story of the game was rookie Fire goalie Sean Johnson, who made a number of critical saves to keep a clean sheet.

The majority of the talk surrounded Thierry Henry, who has looked very good in his two Red Bull appearances thus far. He has been involved in three goals and connected well with teammates, especially star striker Juan Pablo Angel.

Rafael Marquez signed last week, and this was his first game in a Red Bull uniform. He is expected to be a force in the midfield and at the back. Winning the ball and directing play are his strengths.

Meanwhile, Freddie Ljungeberg moved to Chicago in late July from Seattle for a couple of draft picks. He has much experience playing in the MLS and is great at moving the ball down the field.

The other Fire signing, Nery Castillo, also debuted tonight. He is a mercurial Mexican attacker who has played very little in the last few years.

Here is a play-by-play:

First Half:

6th Minute: Ljungeberg nutmegs Roy Miller on the wing and wins a free kick. Baggio Husidic volleys the ensuing free kick well but it’s blocked.

11th Minute: After Wilman Conde concedes a cheap throw-in, Henry juggles the ball over two defenders and sends a 50-50 lob into the box. The Fire cleanup..

19th Minute: Chris Albright sends a curling ball into the box from the wing. Angel heads it towards the back post, but he gets no power on it. 

21st Minute: Angel sends a great cutting past to Henry. Henry stalls than sprints past the defense but his shot is tame.

24th Minute: Marco Pappa receives a pass from McBride across the top of the penalty area. His shot is wide. 

27th Minute: Henry gets warned for a late push but reacts with a raspberry at the camera.

28th Minute: Henry spins and stutters from 25 yards out and takes a shot that misses wide right.

29th Minute: Angel taps it to an on running Henry who gets the ball caught between his feet near the penalty spot. 

31st Minute: Yellow card on Husidic for a late sliding tackle on Marquez.

32nd Minute: Tim Ream is booked for tactical foul on a speeding Freddie Ljungeberg.

38th Minute: Ream sends a chip up to Miller but Sean Johnson is off his line to quickly and wins the ball.

41st Minute: Miller sends in a looping far post cross to Mac Kandji. His volley requires a good save, but he is called for handling.

43rd Minute: Logan Pause chips it to Brian McBride into space. The Red Bulls are on their heals but Ljungeberg scuffs a beautiful ball from McBride.

45th Minute: Thierry Henry is subbed out for Dane Richards. Although he didn’t want to come out, he may have a head injury.

Second Half:

47th Minute: Marquez sends a diagonal straight through the defense to Dane Richards. Richards scathes it across the face of goal but Kandji manages to miss.

49th Minute: Kandji heads a Lindpere cross wide of the upper corner. 

56th Minute: Albright chips a swerving cross onto the head of Kandji who misses again. Nery Castillo enters for Brian McBride.

61st Minute: Marquez is subbed out for Seth Stammler.

64th Minute: Richards receives a great chip from Richards whose first touch goes through nutmegs the defender. He falls in the penalty area but nothing is given.

67th Minute: Logan Pause switches the field with a curving ball to Marco Pappa. He can’t get a shot off in the end.

68th Minute: Angel gets ball in space on the wing. He strikes a knuckle ball but Johnson makes the save.

73rd Minute: Mac Kandji breaks away but kicks the ball too far in front of him while avoiding a challenge.

77th Minute: Richards speeds by two players but his cross is a little bit too far behind Angel.

80th Minute: Carlos Mendes gets a yellow card for holding Ljungeberg in the midfield.

80th Minute: Castillo makes a few cuts on the end line and sends it back to Pappa who curls it wide.

83rd Minute: A mistake by Conde leads to a shot from Angel that beats Johnson and the post.

87th Minute: Richards gets the ball in space and passes it to Ibrahim who can’t get the shot off quick enough.

90th Minute: Ream hits a top drawer volley but Johnson pushes it over.

91st Minute: Albright sends another great cross in which Angel heads into the bottom corner. Johnson makes another highlight save.

92nd Minute: Johnson breaks up a Dane Richard breakaway by charging out of the box.

94th Minute: Johnson makes a diving stop on a Lindpere cross.

Analysis:

The MVP was Sean Johnson, no question. He made a wide variety of  quality saves. He knew exactly when to come off his line and his reactions were impressive to the say the least.

His last save in the 94th minute was spectacular. Angel made no mistake with the header but Johnson was too quick. It's impossible to say how consistent he is after only two games, but his potential is sky high. And he's only 21.

Now back to the players who get paid the big bucks.

It was unfortunate to see Henry leave early with an injury because he looked good in the first 45 minutes. Although he never actually tested the keeper he kept the defense on its toes.

It was also great to see him running around and pressing the ball. He helped the Red Bulls win back possession a few times.

For me, Rafael Marquez was the best designated player on the field. He basically controlled the Red Bulls when they had the ball in their half. It looked like a training ground scrimmage for him as he yelled and gestured and pointed.

He came back very deep to receive the ball numerous times, which often gave New York five at the back. He didn't complete as many as passes as he could've because he chose to be very aggressive with his distribution. Numerous times he sent the ball 40 yards straight up the field to feet. His 47th minute diagonal ball sliced through the Fire defense.

His free kicks and defensive play were admirable as well, but his passing was the best.

Freddie Ljungeberg looked good too. He made numerous runs with the ball right across the Red Bull defense. He even had a chance to score in the 43rd minute but he could not handle a bad bounce. He did a little bit of everything for the Fire by also tracking back and taking free kicks. He added the pace and work rate the Fire were lacking up front.

Nery Castillo was less impressive. Besides setting up a shot for Marco Pappa he failed to make a real impact on the game. Luckily, the Fire do not need to rely on him up top.

But what I really impressed me the most was the quality of the Red Bulls wide play. Roy Miller, Joel Lindpere, Dane Richards, and Chris Albright sent in a barrage of crosses into the middle, and it was incredible that no one scored. No one could match Richard's pace and Albright was very accurate. Mac Kandji missed multiple chances, most in the air, and couldn't do anything with the great service.

Juan Pablo Angel did better than Kandji in the air but still coldn't beat Sean Johnson. Angel took shots from all over, but nothing was going in for him today.

Tim Ream was another player who stood out. Although he was shaky at times in the back, going forward he looked like a handful. I understand that Red Bulls are still looking for another attacker, they are missing a player who can hold and knock down the ball like a Brian McBride, but I think what they really need is another central defender. 

Overall though, it's great to see this much quality in MLS.

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Arguably the greatest trio in MLS history played their first game together at Toyota Park in Chicago. Despite numerous chances the game ended 0-0. 

New York's combination of Theirry Henry, Juan Pablo Angel and Rafael Marquez overshadowed the massive Fire trade for Freddie Ljungberg and acquisition of Nery Castillo during the pre-game hype. Yet, the story of the game was rookie Fire goalie Shawn Johnson, who made a number of critical saves to keep a clean sheet.

The majority of the talk surrounded Thierry Henry, who has looked very good in his two Red Bull appearances thus far. He has been involved in three goals and connected well with teammates, especially star striker Juan Pablo Angel.

Rafael Marquez signed last week  and this was his first game in a Red Bull uniform. He is expected to be a force in the midfield and at the back. Winning the ball and directing play are his strengths.

Meanwhile, Freddie Ljungeberg moved to Chicago in late July from Seattle for a couple of draft picks. He has much experience playing in the MLS and is great at moving the ball down the field.

The other Fire signing of Nery Castillo also debuted tonight. He is a mercurial Mexican attacker who has played very little in the last few years.

Here is a play-by-play:

First Half:

6th Minute: Ljungeberg nutmegs Roy Miller on the wing and wins a free kick. Baggio Husidic volleys the ensuing free kick well but it’s blocked.

11th Minute: After Wilman Conde concedes a cheap throw-in, Henry juggles the ball over two defenders and sends a 50-50 lob into the box. The Fire cleanup..

19th Minute: Chris Albright sends a curling ball into the box from the wing. Angel heads it towards the back post, but he gets no power on it. 

21st Minute: Angel sends a great cutting past to Henry. Henry stalls than sprints past the defense but his shot is tame.

24th Minute: Marco Pappa receives a pass from McBride across the top of the penalty area. His shot is wide. 

27th Minute: Henry gets warned for a late push but reacts with a raspberry at the camera.

28th Minute: Henry spins and stutters from 25 yards out and takes a shot that misses wide right.

29th Minute: Angel taps it to an on running Henry who gets the ball caught between his feet near the penalty spot. 

31st Minute: Yellow card on Husidic for a late sliding tackle on Marquez.

32nd Minute: Tim Ream is booked for tactical foul on a speeding Freddie Ljungeberg.

38th Minute: Ream sends a chip up to Miller but Sean Johnson is off his line to quickly and wins the ball.

41st Minute: Miller sends in a looping far post cross to Mac Kandji. His volley requires a good save, but he is called for handling.

43rd Minute: Logan Pause chips it to Brian McBride into space. The Red Bulls are on their heals but Ljungeberg scuffs a beautiful ball from McCbride.

45th Minute: Thierry Henry is subbed out for Dane Richards. Although he didn’t want to come out, he may have a head injury.

Second Half:

47th Minute: Marquez sends a diagonal straight through the defense to Dane Richards. Richards scathes it across the face of goal but Kandji managaes to miss.

49th Minute: Kandji heads a Lindpere cross wide of the upper corner. 

56th Minute: Albright chips a swerving cross onto the head of Kandji who misses again. Nery Castillo enters for Brian McBride.

61st Minute: Marquez is subbed out for Seth Stammler.

64th Minute: Richards recieves a great chip from Richards whose first touch goes through nutmegs the defender. He falls in the penalty area but nothing is given.

67th Minute: Logan Pause switches the field with a curving ball to Marco Pappa. He can’t get a shot off in the end.

68th Minute: Angel gets ball in space on the wing. He strikes a knuckle ball but Johnson makes the save.

73rd Minute: Mac Kandji breaks away but kicks the ball too far in front of him while avoiding a challenge.

77th Minute: Richards speeds by two players but his cross is a little bit too far behind Angel.

80th Minute: Carlos Mendes gets a yellow card for holding Ljungeberg in the midfield.

80th Minute: Castillo makes a few cuts on the end line and sends it back to Pappa who curls it wide.

83rd Minute: A mistake by Conde leads to a shot from Angel that beats Johnson and the post.

87th Minute: Richards gets the ball in space and passes it to Ibrahim who can’t get the shot off quick enough.

90th Minute: Ream hits a top drawer volley but Johnson pushes it over.

91st Minute: Albright sends another great cross in which Angel heads into the bottom corner. Johnson makes another highlight save.

92nd Minute: Johnson breaks up a Dane Richard breakaway by charging out of the box.

94th Minute: Johnson makes a diving stop on a Lindpere cross.

Analysis:

The MVP was Sean Johnson, no question. He made a wide variety of  quality saves. He knew exactly when to come off his line and his reactions were impressive to the say the least.

His last save in the 94th minute was spectacular. Angel made no mistake with the header but Johnson was too quick. It's impossible to say how consistent he is after only two games, but his potential is sky high. And he's only 21.

Now back to the players who get paid the big bucks.

It was unfortunate to see Henry leave early with an injury because he looked good in the first 45 minutes. Although he never actually tested the keeper he kept the defense on its toes.

It was also great to see him running around and pressing the ball. He helped the Red Bulls win back possession a few times.

For me, Rafael Marquez was the best designated player on the field. He basically controlled the Red Bulls when they had the ball in their half. It looked a training ground scrimmage for him as he yelled and gestured and pointed.

He came back very deep to receive the ball numerous times, which often gave New York five at the back. He didn't complete as many as passes as he could've because he chose to be very aggressive with his distribution. Numerous times he sent the ball 40 yards straight up the field to feet. His 47th minute diagonal ball sliced through the Fire defense.

His free kicks and defensive play was admirable as well but his passing was the best.

Freddie Ljungeberg looked good as well. He made numerous runs with ball right across the Red Bull defense. He even had a chance to score in the 43rd minute but he could not handle a bad bounce. He did little bit of everything for the Fire by also tracking back and taking free kicks. He added the pace and work rate the Fire were lacking up front.

Nery Castillo was less impressive. Besides setting up a shot for Marco Pappa he failed to make a real impact on the game. Luckily, the Fire do not need to rely on him up top.

But what I really impressed me the most was the quality of the Red Bulls wide play. Roy Miller, Joel Lindpere, Dane Richards, and Chris Albright sent in a barrage of crosses into the middle and it was incredible that no one scored. No one could match Richard's pace and Albright was very accurate. Mac Kandji miseed multiple chances, most in the air, and couldn't do anything with the great service.

Juan Pablo Angel did better than Kandji in the air but still coldn't beat Sean Johnson. Angel took shots from all over but nothing was going in for him today.

Tim Ream was another player who stood out. Although he was shaky at times in the back, going forward he looked like a hand full. I understand that Red Bulls are still looking for another attacker, they are missing a player who can hold and knock down the ball like a Brian McBride, but I think what they really need is another central defender. 

Overall though, it's great to see this much quality in MLS.

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Clint Mathis, one of the most memorable and beloved soccer players of his generation, retired after starting Saturday’s Los Angeles Galaxy-Real Madrid exhibition match.

With a career spanning 13 professional seasons, Mathis was successful at the college, club, country, and international club levels. He had a nose for goal and carried along an iconic personality.

Mathis was a star for four years at the University of South Carolina. He scored 53 goals and added 15 assists in 58 total games; he was a two-time All-American and set the school record as a sophomore with 25 goals in one season, leading his team to the NCAA tournament all four years.

His goal scoring prowess really progressed in Mathis’ time with Major League Soccer.

After being a first round draft pick of the Los Angeles Galaxy in 1998, Mathis finished his rookie season with five goals and 10 assists, establishing himself as a rising talent.

In 2000, he was traded to the MetroStars where he quickly solidified his presence as one of the best playmakers America has produced.

The MetroStars had a dismal 1999 season, but were instantly uplifted with Mathis’ arrival. He scored 13 goals and 13 assists in 21 games with the team that season, including an MLS-record five goals in one game against the Dallas Burn, en route to leading the team to the MLS Cup semi-finals.

The following season, he won the MLS Goal of the Year (which would later be nominated for Goal of the Decade) for his incredible 60-yard run through defenders and bottom corner finish.

While Mathis was a member of the team through 2003, because of injury, national team duties, and transfers overseas and within MLS, Mathis would not make a significant return to the MetroStars (renamed the Red Bulls) until 2007. His last goal with the club came in a thrilling 5-4 win over the David Beckham-led Galaxy in front of 80,000 fans at Giants Stadium. It also broke the franchise-record for goals scored in all competitions with 45 (Juan Pablo Angel later broke Mathis’ record).

Mathis would finally win an MLS Cup championship with Real Salt Lake in 2009. His role was heavily reduced with the team, appearing as a substitute, but he would play a key role in winning the championship match. With the score tied 1-1 after overtime, Mathis was selected to take the first penalty kick in the shootout and converted.

In 11 MLS seasons, Mathis scored 67 total MLS-competition goals with the Galaxy, Red Bulls/MetroStars, Real Salt Lake, and Colorado Rapids.

He also made an impact overseas, acting as a goal scoring threat with Hanover 96 in the German Bundesliga and for Ergotolis in Greece. Mathis scored in his debut for both clubs and he scored four goals in his first five games with Hanover.

Mathis’ biggest goal of his career came in the 2002 World Cup. Representing the U.S., Mathis started the second game of the group stage against host-nation South Korea and scored after collecting a ball from the air and slotting it into the bottom corner, to give the United States a 1-0 lead and eventually a 1-1 draw.

Mathis’ goal scoring abilities absolutely captured the attention and imagination of soccer fans in the States, but it wasn’t the only thing they loved about him. Mathis had a personality that really made him remarkable.

In fact, it was a second personality that endeared him to fans.

Mathis adopted an on-field personality known as Cletus. Cletus was brash, honest, and had flair. He would help Clint celebrate his success, but would also cause him to make some poor decisions. All in all, they made Clint recognizable.

After Mathis scored his first goal with the MetroStars, he lifted his jersey to reveal an “I Love New York” t-shirt, expressing his dissatisfaction that the Galaxy got rid of him,  as making New York his new home and earning credit with the home fans.

Not only did Clint score in the 2002 World Cup, but he also sported a Mohawk that scored him instant recognition.

As for Cletus’ bad influence, he reared his ugly head while Clint was with Hanover.

In his second season with the German club, a coaching change and new manager kept Mathis on the bench. One game, Mathis was used as a substitute in the last few minutes of play and almost immediately scored the game-winning goal. As for his celebration, Mathis ran to the sidelines in front of his bench and tapped his wrist, referring to a watch, how late he entered the game, and what he could have done with more time.

Mathis started the next game, but never played for the team again afterwards.

All things considered, Clint or Cletus, goals or benchings, Mathis was a special individual. He had talent galore and was an entertaining character.

MLS and American soccer in general will miss a man that made such an impact on the game and an impression on its loyal fans.

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There is a strange feeling hovering around the New England Revolution’s most ardent fanbase right now.  And it is hard to describe.

The Steve Ralston retirement debacle was the last in a series of “Can you do anything right?” moments.  (Yes, I know “it was the league office’s fault," but please, he’s a Revolution player, the Revolution promoted the game as his retirement send-off, and fans expect the Revolution front office talks to the league more than they do. It was sad.)

However, over the last few weeks odd things have been happening on and off the field.  Good things.  And it’s not clear the fans are at all sure how to deal with good news.  And maybe rightly.

What’s been going on?

Well, for one, the Revolution have been winning some games.  They might not be beautiful, they might mostly be SuperLiga and not MLS games, but they are not losing. That’s a start.

In fact, they are even heading to the final of the odd, but nonetheless interesting, SuperLiga competition.   It’s a great showing by the team, and something every supporter is happy to see.

Second, the Revolution front office decided that in 2011 there would be seating on both sides of the field for MLS matches.  (Why it was called “Full Bowl” seating when not all sections are open is, however, a mystery.)

Now let’s be clear.  This is not the stop-the-presses good news.  But it is a sign of intent to create a better atmosphere from a front office often criticized for a lack of such intent.

While that interim solution was announced, news continues to be slowly leaked out about potential soccer specific stadium locations, a clear admission that Gillette Stadium is not a perfect solution.  If you do not understand why, please come to a rainy midweek game.  Then it will be clear.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, the Revolution added some much-needed reinforcements to its attack.   Newcomers Roberto Linck and Ilija Stolica are welcome additions to an injured, over-matched front line.

But this is where we return to why the New England fans are having such trouble feeling good.   There’s a sneaking suspicion that in MLS, “good” isn’t good enough anymore.

These new players?  Probably good.

The new seating?  A good step.

The recent string of results?  Good indeed.

But then the fans look around.  And they get antsy all over again.

The Revolution’s closest (geographic) rivals add Thierry Henry and Rafa Marquez on top of Juan Pablo Angel and a brand new soccer specific stadium.  That just hurts.

The Red Bulls might be the Revs' theoretical closest rivals. But for watchers of this team, playoff battles against the Chicago Fire probably stand out as much more of what a rivalry is made up of.

The real issue struck me about a week ago, as the Chicago Fire was up 3-0 against the Los Angeles Galaxy.  It wasn’t the fact that Chicago (already an MLS Cup winner who plays in a soccer-specific stadium) was beating up the “best” team in MLS. It was that at 3-0, Brian McBride and Freddie Ljundberg had not even entered the match and Nery Castillo was still waiting to join the team.

That’s when it struck me that “good” may not be good enough in MLS anymore.   So while the team needs to continue the “good," and a win would certainly help, the fans will still be looking for more.

There is a need for some “great” to be sprinkled in as well.  And that’s going to be a bit harder to do.

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Many skeptics had already written off the Seattle Sounders several weeks ago for the 2010 season, convinced that the team could never make the playoffs in its second season of MLS existence.

Instead Coach Sigi Schmid’s team, bolstered by the return of some injured players along with foreign acquisitions Blaise Nkufo and Alvaro Fernandez, is now in comfortable playoff striking range as well as faring successfully in non-league competition.

Seattle Sounders FC hopes to continue its current surge as the Rave Green returns from 3,000 miles away in San Salvador to the friendly confines of Qwest Field for a match against the Houston Dynamo. Seattle can further climb up the Western Conference of MLS when it hosts the Dynamo on Sunday night at 8 p.m. PT.

Undefeated in its last four MLS matches and in seven games over all competitions, Sounders FC at a current 7-8-4 and 25 points has vaulted from seventh to fourth in the West, two points behind FC Dallas.

Seattle has won three straight and has not lost in its last four MLS starts dating back to July 11. The seven-game unbeaten run of 5-0-2 in all competitions began with a 2-0 win over the L.A. Galaxy in a July 7 U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal.

Tuesday night Seattle advanced by way of aggregate goals scored to the group stage of the CONCACAF Champions League with a 1-1 draw in San Salvador. Sounders FC had defeated Metapán, 1-0, in the first leg of the preliminary series, played on the Xbox Pitch at Qwest Field last week. The team then won an MLS contest at San Jose 1-0 before continuing its journey to San Salvador.

Seattle and Houston, which currently stands 5-8-5 with 20 points in MLS competition, are sowing the seeds of a true rivalry. The sides have already met five times with some memorable outcomes.

Houston is coming off its fourth draw in its last five matches.  Its last competition was a 2-2 result at home against the New York Red Bulls. Houston is winless since May 22.

Sunday night’s match will be the first meeting since the Dynamo eliminated Sounders FC from the MLS Cup Playoffs last November. The two-game postseason series was extended to extra time after the second leg at Robertson Stadium in Texas.

Earlier in 2009 Seattle had beaten Houston 2-1 after extra time in the semifinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The Rave Green won at home and drew on the road in two regular season matches with the Dynamo.

Sigi Schmid after Friday’s final workout at Qwest Field commented on the challenge that Houston represents.

“Houston is going to be a very dangerous team because it is a team that has traditionally, over the past period of time in MLS, been at the top of the league,” Schmid said.  “They have a lot of proud players. They are not really comfortable being in the position they are in so they are going to fight and they’re going to bite and they’re going to scratch.

“They will do everything they can because they are a very proud team. And anytime you have players like [Brian] Ching and [Brian] Mullan and Brad Davis on the offensive side of the ball you are a team that’s got to be reckoned with.”

The Sounders coach also commented on the significance of the intense rivalry that has developed between the two teams.

“Last year we played them a number of times, between the Open Cup, the two league games and the first round of the playoffs,” Schmid recalled.  “When you play a team that often you sort of build a little bit of an edge.

“Also (Houston Coach) Dominic (Kinnear) and I are friends and as I have said before you never really want to lose to friends because you hear about it for a long time. His teams are competitive. I think my teams are competitive. We had tight games last year, every game was a tight game, some overtime games in there as well. It will be the same this year.”

On the subject of Sounder team fitness, Schmid said:

“We will see how guys came through training today. Most of the guys felt alright. We were a little cautious with Jeff Parke just because they wanted to give him one more day but he was able to deal with everything well so if he is fine tomorrow he can definitely be a go as well for Sunday. We feel pretty good about where we are at right now.”

Schmid had positive words about the team’s newest arrival, Uruguay World Cup player Alvaro Fernandez.  He commented also on the key goal Fernandez achieved to insure the 1-1 tie and aggregate 2-1 win over Metapan.

“He came in and did what he does (best),” Schmid said.  “He helps move the ball for us and got into the box at the right time and obviously made a great header. That was a very timely goal.”

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Schellas Hyndman and Kasey Keller, two accomplished people within the Major League Soccer fraternity, had interesting points to make recently about parity.

When Hyndman met the media following a recent 1-1 tie that his FC Dallas team achieved in Seattle it was with the buoyant optimism one associates with a victory.

The Dallas management was fortunate to see that there was a gigantic soccer legend within their city and made a successful move to sign Hyndman after he had posted an awesome 466-122-49 figure at Southern Methodist.

If there is one thing that such an eye-popping college record reveals about Hyndman it is that he knows the ways to win.  He is currently being discussed as a serious Coach of the Year candidate in the MLS after leading the team upward from lesser accomplishments before he took over as coach  to a current glossy 6-2-9 mark.

The nine tie record is interesting.  It reveals a shrewd knowledge of what it takes to achieve success in the MLS, as Hyndman revealed that night following the hard fought 1-1 draw with the Seattle Sounders.

“This is a tough place to come in and get a win given the big crowd factor supporting the home team,” Hyndman acknowledged.  “We feel fortunate in getting a tie and one point.”

At this juncture Hyndman moved into the realm of parity discussion.

“This league is so balanced that to earn a point on the road can be a big plus, especially in a tough city to play in like Seattle,” Hyndman said. “With this much balance you can accomplish a lot by getting one point on the road and concentrate on getting three points when you play at home.”

Hyndman hit on a fundamental point of compilation toward later potential playoff activity.  While he would prefer a win anytime, it is comforting to note that a tie will achieve one point and put a team in a good position to cop three points at greater clips before the home folks.  Momentum is not impaired as long as road losses are avoided and one point can be posted.

After his team’s recent 1-0 home win at the Xbox Pitch of Qwest field against the Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Kasey Keller was asked about parity and balance within the MLS.

Keller, like Hyndman, is another voice of experience, a U.S. team member in World Cup competition and an international goalkeeper of great distinction in England and Germany before signing with the newly created Seattle Sounders last season.

“What keeps this league at a balanced level is the salary cap,” Keller said.  “As long as that remains then things will remain at the level where they are now.”

Keller then addressed the subject of dynasty.

“Here is what this salary cup that this league has in force has accomplished,” Keller revealed.  “In this league you will not see anything like what has been seen in Major League Baseball with the New York Yankees.”

Hyndman and Keller addressed the same point from different perspectives.  Last season’s result bore strongly on their revelations.

Real Salt Lake was a team that barely gnawed its way into the MLS Playoffs.  When all was said and done it was Real Salt Lake that copped the MLS Cup.

The Los Angeles Galaxy jumped off to a big point edge at the beginning of this season but as the campaign progresses a tightening process has been clearly visible.

This is the first season.  The second season begins with the playoffs.  Will fans be in for the same kind of surprise as emerged last season with Real Salt Lake achieving its surprise win?

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