Monday Morning Positivity

By: Dave Martinez | June 22nd, 2009

If you’re from the tri-state area, and your name isn’t Jerseyeppe Rossi, you probably enjoyed a fairly nice weekend of soccer action. Not only did the US Mens National Team advance to the semifinals of the Confederations Cup, but the Red Bulls actually took part in a fairly exciting back and forth game this weekend against the Seattle Sounders. Sure, the result was a draw, but it is better than the alternative fans have been treated to the past few weeks.

Yes, the Bulls are still snake bitten in extra time, and missed out on a unique opportunity to steal some points at home. Yes, knuckle head plays like the Jeremy Hall giveaway still infect this team like the swine flu. Sure, it took an absolute gift of a giveaway for Angel to find net. But for this first night in recent memory, the excitement in the stadium was palpable, the fans were into it, and the team showed some life on the pitch.

So instead of lambasting anyone this morning (though Hall does deserve a tongue lashing for that attempt to “carry the defense” out of the backline), I’d like to focus on some of the good surrounding this team. No, I am not being an apologist for anyone; it is simply Monday morning, and I want to continue to ride the good vibes of this weekend. Jerseyeppe is back in Italy, the Bulls played an entertaining game, the USMNT are in the Confed’s semis – what more could we want?

Lets ride the positivity train together, because you know reality will come knocking us all down soon enough. Here we go:

NICK ZIMMERMAN – This kid is a revelation, which makes one wonder what took so damn long for him to reveal himself in the first place. Zim has made a seamless transition to the starting 11. He has all the small, intangible tools Dane Richards desperately missed. He plays the ball with his head up, always looking for the right opportunity to pass the ball off. He doesn’t force a shot either. Even with Angel screaming to his left for a pass this Saturday, Zimmerman saw a lane directly at Keller and one timed a shot that Kasey gobbled up instead. Sure, he could have passed the ball, but the opportunity was there for him, and he took it. Great decision making in my opinion, especially for a team that seems allergic to shooting outside of the 15. The best part is that he is even effective in a central role, best illustrated when Richards was inserted into the lineup late, shifting Zimmerman. He is a bright spot in this teams darkest hour, that is for sure.

MAC KANDJI – Come on, who can’t get enough of those giant gazelle legs doing step over after step over against confounded defenders? I can’t, that is for damn sure. Kandji is becoming one half footballer, one half entertainer on the field, and is drawing a big fan following for it. Yes, he must manage to find the back of the net in a more consistent basis, but that is probably symptomatic of the teams general woes. This time last year, his name began to surface in rumor reports across the East Coast as a possible acquisition, and fans went crazy for him. This year, we know the reasons why.

DANNY CEPERO – Here is a revealing number. In a recent poll conducted on these very pages, Danny Cepero was considered the best choice as a starting keeper over Conway and Bouna Coundoul by 53%. With his clutch saves against Toronto last week, and his performance against the Green Machine this week, there is no question why the young New Yorker has grown in popularity. Last year, Cepero took the team to the MLS Cup after Conways unexpected and never explained suspension due to a violation of the leagues Wellness Policy. This year, he has had to compete for his starting position throughout. Sure, he has been far from perfect, but his great athleticism and leadership in the back have saved the Bulls from complete embarrassment. Again, not perfect, but definitely a bright spot the past few weeks.

ATTENDANCE – It was nice to see so many fans out on such a dreary day, making noise, and supporting the team they love, even if that team hasn’t lived up to expectations. It is something that FC Dallas would die to have. Great job supporting the team by the casual area fans. And don’t take flack from people making fun of your “hide under the second deck and cheer so we don’t get wet” ways. You were there when others stayed home. And that is achievement enough.

ESC – Loud, Loud, Loud. No matter what the weather, no matter where they are, the Empire Supporters can definitely overwhelm the in game audio. They were out, in force, drenched in the early showers, and still singing their hearts out for the team they love. That is what being a supporter is all about.

THE USMNT – And outside of the RB Universe, thank you soccer Gods for finally cutting the United States a break. I can not remember when you last did so, but it was probably some time around 1994. Either way, you blessed us with a perfect storm of qualifications, and for that we are grateful. Thank you soccer Gods. Thank you.