SJ Earthquakes - Statistics

 2008

Earthquakes Pick Brad Ring and Quincy Amarikwa

Photo:www.iuhoosiers.cstv.com

Photo:www.aggiepack.com

The San Jose Earthquakes have chosen Brad Ring (top-left), a 21 year old midfielder from Indiana University, as their first pick in today's MLS Superdraft taking place in Saint Louis.

This choice was the second pick of the second round of the draft (17th pick overall) and could be seen as an alternative to Lima in case the Brazilian wouldn't come back to San Jose.

Quincy Amarinkwa (top-right picture), selected by the Quakes in the third round (2nd pick, 32nd overall) is 21 as well and had impressive stats with UC Davis in 2008: his 15 goals and 1 assist in 21 games earned him the 2008 Big West Offensive Player of the Year award. He his the kind of finisher the Quakes need, especially if Scott Sealy (currently on trial in europe) doesn't come back in 2009.

San Jose had traded their first round pick to Toronto before the 2008 season as part of the deal that brouht Ronnie O'Brien at Buck Shaw.

Their pick in the fourth round has been traded as well. CAL's captain and San Jose Frogs' goalkeeper, Stefan Frei has been picked in the first round (13th pick, 1st goalkeeper) by Toronto. Born in Switzerland, Frei's family moved to California in 2001, when he was 15 and is hoping to play fo his country in the future.

Earthquakes Sign Jersey Sponsorship Agreement With Amway Global

[Oficial SJ Earthquakes Press Release]

"SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Amway Global announced a historic three-year partnership agreement today that will include Amway Global’s name on the front of the Earthquakes jerseys beginning in 2009. The partnership also features a number of in-stadium, community and grassroots components that will provide greater visibility for both the Earthquakes and Amway Global.

“Putting Amway Global's logo on our jersey is another example of soccer’s growth as a major player in the sports marketplace,” said Earthquakes Executive Vice President David Alioto. “We are proud to enter into this partnership with Amway Global. Amway Global is a major international brand and has demonstrated a strong commitment to soccer both in the United States and around the world.”

The partnership between Amway Global and the Earthquakes kicks off at the Mexico-Sweden match on January 28 at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum when all entry signage for the game will be branded with Amway Global logos. Overall, the agreement will see the Amway Global logo adorn the team’s jerseys as well as all team gear, including training tops and team travel apparel. Along with the jersey sponsorship, the deal includes a major signage component as well as a 30-foot tall inflatable Amway Global/Earthquakes jersey that will be displayed at all home Earthquakes games.

"Amway Global is thrilled to become part of the San Jose Earthquakes family. Interest in Major League Soccer continues to rise, so this sponsorship positions us well to reach millions of consumers with our health, beauty and business brand messages," said Steve Lieberman, Managing Director of Amway Global. "Internationally, soccer superstar Ronaldinho endorses our Nutrilite® brand of supplements, and the Nutrilite brand also sponsors his club, AC Milan. We hope we can expand upon those international associations and become part of the growing excitement for soccer here in the U.S. with the Earthquakes," said Lieberman.

A major part of the partnership is focused on community initiatives in the Bay Area. Amway Global is now the official sponsor of the Kicks for Kids program that focuses on fitness and healthy lifestyles, as well as bringing underprivileged children to Earthquakes games. Through the program, Earthquakes players will visit 15 schools or community centers in the Bay Area to discuss the importance of being active and living a healthy lifestyle. At each event, the player will also distribute tickets and replica jersey shirts to 150 children per school. The program kicks off prior to the team’s home opener on March 21 against the New England Revolution. Amway Global and the Earthquakes also will sponsor the Hispanic Youth Soccer Scholarship Program. This program will pay the expenses for one year of soccer for a deserving youth player in the Bay Area.

Amway Global will be the presenting sponsor for the opening night on Saturday, March 21 when the Earthquakes host the New England Revolution at 7:30 p.m. PT at Buck Shaw Stadium and will give the first 5,000 fans an Earthquakes replica jersey t-shirt at the match. The game also marks the first opportunity for fans to purchase the new authentic Earthquakes kit.

The partnership will also see the creation of the Amway Global Street Team in 2009. The Amway Global Street Team will appear at all home games, while also having a presence at a number of soccer and non-soccer events throughout the Bay Area. The members of the Amway Global Street Team will give away Earthquakes-branded merchandise and provide soccer skills demonstrations at each event.

About Amway Global

Amway Global (www.amwayglobal.com) is a leader in the $80 billion global direct-selling industry. Established in 1959 as a seller of household cleaners, the company expanded and diversified over the years and today is a leader in Health and Beauty through its Nutrilite® brand of nutritional supplements and the Artistry® brand of skin care and cosmetics. Globally, Amway reported sales of more than $7 billion last year and is helping millions of people lead better lives with its consumer products, business opportunities, and generous sharing through its One By One Campaign for Children."

Earthquakes: Cannon Signs New Contract!

^{Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

End of suspense: the San Jose Earthquakes announced today that Joe Cannon has signed a new multi-year contract.

More than their favorite player, "The Joe" is seen as a friend by a lot of Quakes' fans and they will enjoy his presence at Buck shaw for a few more years!

Cannon's future in the Bay Area was in question after the Earthquakes refused to renew the goalkeeper's contract with the same conditions as last year.

After weeks of negotiations, the two parties finally managed to agree on a new contract.

"It's good news, for sure. I wanted to give back to the community that gave me so much and that's what will happen for at least 2 or 3 more years", said Cannon. "It was a long process. First, I had to look at a few offers from overseas. Then, I knew for a while that it was almost done but our lawyers needed to take their time to fix a few details" (mostly game bonuses, according to our information) 

After the signing of younger goalkeeper, Andrew Weber (25 year-old) from Montreal Impact (USL-1) last Wednesday (Feb. 11), Cannon, in addition of keeping the first team's goal as well as he did in 2008 for one or two more seasons, will probably be asked to use his experience and leadership skills to help Weber improve and get ready to take his succession when time comes, even though he insisted to clarify "I haven't said I would be done in 2 or 3 years!"

We also asked Cannon if he thought Weber could be his successor: "I honestly didn't have much time to get a precise idea yet", he said "but I can already tell you that he looks promising and, more importantly, he works hard, and I think that anybody who works hard gets an opportunity sooner or later."

Jason Hernandez Called To US National Team Training Camp!

San Jose Earthquakes' defender, Jason Hernandez, has been called into the US National Team training camp in Carson, Ca. by head coach Bob Bradley.

^{Photo: Nap - The Project FC}

The 25-year-old defender started the season as a left back but he quickly took advantage of injuries and suspensions to move to the center of the Quakes' defense and, match after match, became indispensable to his team in this position, pushing Ryan Cochrane on the bench for the last part of the season.

As a reward for his outstanding performances throughout the season, Hernandez will join tonight the group preparing for the USA's first match of 2009 against Sweden. The friendly game is scheduled on January 24 at 5:30 pm PT.

He is joining the camp that started on January 4 to replace Clarence Goodson and Corry Gibs, both unavailable. Even though he is unlikely to start the game, this camp is a great opportunity for him to try and convince the staff to call him again in the future.

The match will be broadcast live on Fox Soccer Channel and Galavision (Jan. 24 at 5:30pm PT) and an appearance of Hernandez as a sub in the second half is foreseeable...Don't miss his first selection!

SJ Earthquakes - 2008 Schedule & Results

San Jose Earthquakes Are Back To Work

Impressions, info and interviews after 2009's first training session

Excitation of seeing your friends again, relaxed atmosphere, optimism, a few new faces and a few missing ones too are some of the ingredients you expect to find when you go back to school...Or when your team goes back to training for the new season.

None of the above was missing today, at Buck Shaw stadium (Santa Clara), where the San Jose Earthquakes had their first training session of the year.

Ryan Cochrane, Shea Salinas and even Jason Hernandez (who could be a little bittersweet after having to leave the national team before the game against Sweden because of a calf injury) all sounded very happy to be there...(Listen to them below)

Today was also an opportunity for us to talk with Frank Yallop and John Doyle about the transfer market.

Let's start with the missing faces:

Darren Huckerby (attending a charity event in Norwich) and Nick Garcia (who just had a baby) were not here today for personal reasons. No worries though, they will both be back shortly.

Lima and O'Brien not coming back, Sealy in question

Ronnie O'Brien, on the other hand, will not come back. The San Jose Earthquakes didn't make a real effort to keep him at the club and the right winger decided not to push the negotiations further. This leaves this spot open to Shea Salinas. Frank Yallop said that Arturo Alvarez could also play on the right wing, where he is more comfortable than in the striker position where in which he played last year.

 John Doyle also confirmed that Lima is not coming back. For Sealy, we will have to wait until January 31 (deadline for the European transfer market) to know if he is coming back from his trial in Europe.

On the arrivals side, Brad Ring and Quincy Amarikwa were both here today. They haven't signed a contract yet. The club confirmed that their performance during the preseason will decide whether they are offered a regular contract or a developemental (or, even no contract at all).

5 or 6 players are on trial, but the priority for John Doyle is to find "a confirmed striker". He added that "a defensive midfielder wouldn't hurt either, knowing that Lima is not returning."

Convey and Byers: Not done yet

Doyle confirmed the rumors about 2 targets in order to fill these two positions. He is in contact with Peter Byers (striker from Montreal Impact - USL1) and Bobby Convey (American international midfielder from Reading - England)

For Byers, negotiations are on their way and things could go fast now, in a way or the other, more likely in a positive way, even though John Doyle insisted on the fact that nothing is done yet.

The situation is a little more complicated for Convey. The Quakes really want him, but they have to convince the player, his agent, his club and the MLS.

Doyle didn't hide he was looking for an international striker in addition to Byers and a right back to replace James Riley...Here is what he told us on the subject:

Other interview of the day, Frank Yallop about the roster, the future captain, Brad Ring and more...:

Here is a video of the training (More videos here):

San Jose Earthquakes: Back to Work!

While Frank Yallop and John Doyle are working on building their 2009 roster (we will give you some news shortly), the San Jose Earthquakes announced yesterday their schedule for the pre-season.

Their training camp officially opens on Sunday, January 25 with physical examinations, followed, on Monday, January 26 at 10 am, by the first training session.

Frank Yallop's team will be training at Buck Shaw until February 11 before traveling to San Luis Obispo for the MLS Central showcase where they will play against the new MLS expansion team, Freddie Ljungberg's Seattle Sounders on February 13 and the Houston Dynamo on February 15. In the same event last year, the San Jose Earthquakes, as an expansion team, won against Columbus Crew (2-1, read match report) and tied DC United (0-0, read match report)

The Quakes will then be back to Buck Shaw for training. 2 other friendly games are scheduled in February before the team  travels to Los Angeles for a week of  training and another pre-season game against Colorado Rapids on March 2.

They will be back at Buck Shaw on March 9 and will be training on their home field until their MLS regular season opener home game against New England Revolution on March 21.

Here is the detailed Quakes' preseason schedule (additional pre-season games may be added later):

Monday, January 26-Wednesday, February 11:  Training at Buck Shaw Stadium.

Thursday, February 12-Sunday, February 15:  MLS Central Showcase, San Luis Obispo at Alex G. Spanos Stadium at Cal Poly.

February 13 - Earthquakes vs. Seattle Sounders at 7:00 p.m. PT

February 15 - Earthquakes vs. Houston Dynamo at 1:00 p.m. PT

Monday, February 16 - Friday, February 27:  Training at Buck Shaw Stadium.

February 20 - Earthquakes vs. Fresno Fuego at 7:00 p.m. PT at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, Calif.

February 25 – Earthquakes at Cal-Berkeley at 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 1-Saturday, March 7:  Training in Carson, California. 

March 2 - Earthquakes vs. Colorado Rapids at The Home Depot Center.

Monday, March 9 – Friday, March 20:  Training at Buck Shaw Stadium.

March 11 - Earthquakes at Cal Berkeley.  Time to be determined.

Saturday, March 21: MLS regular season opener - Earthquakes vs. New England Revolution at 7:30 p.m. at Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara.

Joe Cannon, Arturo Alvarez: Preseason Impressions!

 Joe Cannon - Part 1 (3'58"):

 Joe Cannon - Part 2 (4'52"):
 

Arturo Alvarez  (7'17"):

Amazon.com Widgets

San Jose Earthquakes Sign Quincy Amarikwa

It didn't take long to Quincy Amarikwa to impress the staff of his new team.

Just one month and 2 preseaon games after being picked by San Jose in the 3rd round of the MLS Superdraft, the club has confirmed that the 21 year-old forward has signed a contract and will occupy a spot on the Earthquakes senior roster.

“Quincy has had a solid preseason so far and has shown great potential,” said General Manager of Soccer Operations John Doyle. “He has great speed and is a good finisher. We think he has a bright future in MLS.”

The new Quakes' number 25 has played in the two preseason games played by the team so far. In the first game against Seattle on Feb. 13 (MLS Central Coast Showcase) he came in after half time and scored his first goal just 40 seconds later.

San Jose Earthquakes Confirm Bobby Convey's Signing!

The San Jose Earthquakes announced today the signing of international midfielder Bobby Convey.

After weeks of negotiations, the 25 years old international midfielder comes back to MLS after 5 seasons spent with Reading in the English Championship (second division - 2004-2006 and 2008-2009) and Premier League (2006-2008)

He played 98 games for Reading and scored 7 goals.

“It is rare to be able to acquire a U.S. international in the prime of his career,” said General Manager of Soccer Operations John Doyle. “When he became available we jumped at the opportunity to add him to our team. He is a great attacking player who will make an immediate impact, and our fans will enjoy watching him.”

Convey, 45 selections with the US national team, should replace Lima as a center midfield where he will be associated to another experienced player, Ramiro Corrales.

Earthquakes Kick Off Preseason With 3-2 Win Over Seattle Sounders FC

[Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release]

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif – The San Jose Earthquakes kicked off the preseason with a 3-2 victory over Seattle Sounders FC on Friday at Alex G. Spanos Stadium in the Major League Soccer Central Coast Showcase. Ryan Johnson netted a pair of first-half goals for San Jose and rookie forward Quincy Amarikwa scored the winner early in the second half.

Johnson got the Quakes on the board first with a goal in the eighth minute. After receiving a ball over the top from Ned Grabavoy, he slotted a left-footed shot past Sounders FC goalkeeper Kasey Keller for a 1-0 advantage.

Fredy Montero tied the game for Seattle just minutes later. Former Quake James Riley found Nate Jaqua on the wing and he centered the ball to Montero. Montero then found the net with a shot past Quakes goalkeeper Joe Cannon in the 11th minute.

San Jose broke back on top through Johnson’s second goal of the night. Newly-signed forward Cam Weaver headed a ball down to Johnson in the box and he slotted a shot past Keller for a 2-1 lead midway through the half.

Johnson nearly tallied his hat trick in the 31st minute after striking a shot from a narrow angle on the left that swung past Keller, but clanged off the crossbar and away from the net.

Sounders FC tied the match once again just before halftime. Montero received a pass from Sebastien Le Toux and headed a shot to the far post past Cannon for his second of the match to send the teams to the dressing rooms in a 2-2 tie.

Amarikwa netted the winner for the Earthquakes with an unassisted goal less than 40 seconds into the second half. Amarikwa, a third-round draft choice out of UC Davis of San Jose, beat the Keller one-on-one in the box for his first post-collegiate goal.

Andrew Weber, San Jose's backup keeper, came up clutch for the Earthquakes in the 85th minute, stopping a point-blank shot from Sanna Nyassi.

MLS Central Coast Showcase (Preseason)

San Jose Earthquakes  vs. Seattle Sounders FC

February 13, 2009 – Alex G Spanos Stadium; San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Attendance: 1,557

Scoring summary: 

SJ – Ryan Johnson (Ned Grabavoy) 8; SEA – Fredy Montero (Nate Jaqua) 11; SJ – Ryan Johnson (Cam Weaver) 22; SEA – Fredy Montero (Sebastien Le Toux) 45; SJ – Quincy Amarikwa (unassisted) 46.

First Half Lineups:

Seattle Sounders FC (4-4-2): Kasey Keller, Taylor Graham, Nathan Sturgis, Tyson Wahl, James Riley, Steve Zakuani, Brad Evans, Osvaldo Alonso, Sebastien Le Toux, Nate Jaqua, Fredy Montero.

San Jose Earthquakes (4-4-2): Joe Cannon, Eric Denton, Jamil Roberts, Ryan Cochrane, Tim Merritt, Darren Huckerby, Ramiro Corrales, Ned Grabavoy, Shea Salinas, Ryan Johnson, Cam Weaver.

Second Half Lineups:

Seattle Sounders FC (4-4-2): Kasey Keller, Nathan Sturgis (Zach Scott 61), Taylor Graham (Kyle Schmid 61), Tyson Wahl (Patrick Ianni 61), James Riley (Evan Brown 61), Steve Zakuani (Roger Levesque 61), Osvaldo Alonso (Stephen King 61), Brad Evans (Ryan Caugherty 61), Sebastien Le Toux (Sanna Nyassi 61), Fredy Montero (Jeff Clark 61), Nate Jaqua (Vini Oliveira 61).

San Jose Earthquakes (4-4-2): Andrew Weber, David Hayes, Nick Garcia, Kelly Gray, Alex Zotinca, Simon Elliott, Inigo Idiakez, Arturo Alvarez, Shea Salinas (Alfonso Motagalvan 70), Quincy Amarikwa (Pablo Campos 61), David Somma.

Misconduct Summary:

SEA – James Riley caution (reckless foul) 33; SJ – Inigo Idiakez (reckless foul) 90.

Fresno Fuego (PDL) 0 - 6 San Jose Earthquakes

[Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release]

"FRESNO, Calif. –  The San Jose Earthquakes won their third preseason game on Friday night with a 6 - 0 victory over the Fresno Fuego at Chukchansi Park.  Ryan Johnson scored for the third game in a row, while Arturo Alvarez netted a pair of goals. Darren Huckerby, Cam Weaver and Pablo Campos added three more goals for the Quakes.

San Jose jumped on the board first with a goal from Johnson.  Johnson received a long pass from Quakes goalkeeper Andrew Weber, broke loose into the box and shot the ball past Fuego goalkeeper Brandon Cave.

A few minutes later Weber was tested and came up with a big stop.  Jesus Santiago broke loose and charged toward the goal, but Weber made a spectacular save to keep the Fuego off the scoreboard.

The Earthquakes struck again in the 26th minute, as Alvarez found Cam Weaver on the right side and he crossed the ball to an open Huckerby. The Englishman then hammered a shot into the center of the goal for a 2-0 advantage.

San Jose continued to pressure the Fuego and it paid off with another goal late in the first half.  In the 39th minute, Johnson made a pass to Alvarez, who broke away from three defenders and rifled a shot to the upper right hand corner of the goal that Cave could not stop.

Minutes into the second half, Huckerby got free on the left wing and crossed the ball to Alvarez in front of goal. He blasted a shot into the back of the net for his second goal of the night.

In the 58th minute Alvarez played a ball down the line and Weaver dribbled past the Fuego goalkeeper and scored the fifth goal for San Jose.

Former Fuego player Pablo Campo capped the scoring with a goal against his former team. He broke away from a few defenders and scored his first goal in an Earthquakes uniform with 20 minutes left in the match.

The Earthquakes continue the preseason next Friday, Feb. 27 with an exhibition match against the Colorado Rapids at Buck Shaw Stadium. The match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. PT. Season tickets holders can attend the match free of charge, while general admission tickets for non-season ticket holders are $10.

San Jose Earthquakes vs Fresno Fuego
February 20, 2008 – Chukchansi Park; Fresno, California

Scoring Summary:  SJ –  Ryan Johnson (Andrew Weber) 4; SJ - Darren Huckerby (Cam Weaver, Arturo Alvarez) 27, SJ – Arturo Alvarez (Ryan Johnson) 40, Arturo Alvarez (Darren Huckerby) 49, Cam Weaver (Arturo Alvarez) 58; Pablo Campos (unassisted) 70.

Misconduct Summary:  FF- Blanco Milton (caution) 34; SJ - Darren Huckerby (caution) 44; SJ – Kelly Gray (caution) 74; SJ – John Cunliffe (ejection) 80

San Jose Earthquakes –  Andrew Weber, Eric Denton, Nick Garcia, Jason Hernandez (Ancil Farrier) 60, Kelly Gray, Darren Huckerby (Alfonso Motagalvan) 66, Simon Elliot (John Culiffe) 60, Ned Grabavoy, Arturo Alvarez (Shea Salinas) 60, Cam Weaver (Pablo Campos) 60, Ryan Johnson (Davide Somma) 60.

Fresno Fuego

–  Brandon Cave (Mads Aastrup) 45, Raul Rivera (Adam Arteaga) 79, Paul Moran (Kiel McClung) 54, Gaston Cignetti (Devon Grousis) 72, Eddie Gutierrez, Jesus Santiago, Adrian Alvarado (Pablo Segura) 72, Milton Blanco, Orlando Ramirez, Fabricio Codeceira (Rory Agu) 79, Amaury Nunes."

Click here for San Jose Earthquakes Schedule & Results

San Jose Earthquakes 2 - 2 CAL-Berkeley

As Frank Yallop said after the game, there was not much importance to give to today's result.

The 4th preseason game for San Jose so far was played on the Quakes' training ground and it really looked like a training game between CAL Berkeley and the San Jose Earthquakes, mostly composed  of trialists.

The College players were close to win the game after taking a 2-0 lead in the second half (2 nice goals) but they looked tired in the last fifteen minutes and allowed the Quakes to come back before the final whistle.

The first Quakes' goal came after Junior Burgos (listen to his interview below) took a corner kick from the left for Lars Lyssand's header at the near post who didn't miss target.

A few minutes later, Shea Salinas from the right took another corner kick. Chris Williams was at the near post to finish with a powerful header for the equalizer.

Davide Somma's positive attitude, Shea Salinas' enthusiasm, the interesting association of Alfonso Montagalvan and Junior Burgos in the middle and the impressive physical aptitudes of defender Chris Williams are the main satisfactions for the San Jose Earthquakes.

From Cal's point of view, it is a disappointment after being so close to win the game, but the overall performance was good, especially for a team that has not played for months!

Listen to CAL's #11 and captain, Jacob Wilson after the game:

Other post game interviews:

Frank Yallop:

Junior Burgos (former San Francisco Seals center midfield, on trial at the SJ Earthquakes):

San Jose Earthquakes 1-0 Portland Timbers (USL-1)

 
^{Quincy Amarikwa, best Quake tonight - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

It didn't feel like the last game and last week before the first MLS regular season game tonight at Buck Shaw Stadium.

The quiet atmosphere (despite the constant effort of about 30 Ultras and the presence of about 30 Casbah members), and a supposedly weaker opponent gave to this game a  very friendly savor.

However, the Quakes took the match seriously. They looked concentrated and motivated from the first to the last minute. They dominated most of the game, created a few chances and even had a very good period with many chances between the 25th and 35th minute.

It was not enough to make a difference early and win the game easily. They proposed some interesting and even promising moves, but lack of precision in the last pass ruined their efforts until Huckerby finally scored the (beautiful) only goal of the game*.

There is no real issues regarding individual performances though. In terms of tactics and physical impact they are ready Almost everyone looked in shape and ready to start the season. It is just a question of details in the finish, nothing that can not be improved in the next few weeks and, hopefully, in the next week. And, after all, San Jose finally won the game.

The biggest satisfaction came from 2 of the new players, Chris Leitch and Quincy Amarikwa. who both look like they have been part of this team for years and offered a very solid performance (See details below, in the individual evaluations)

However, Frank Yallop was disappointed after the game. "We didn't play well" he said. "We didn't move the ball quickly...[this is what] we are going to work at in the next week".

_{*The goal has been officially attributed to Quincy Amarikwa. Salinas took a beautiful shot from outside the box that Steve Cronin could only punch in the air. Amarikwa then headed it toward the goal and a defender cleared it on the line or maybe right behind it. However, the referee had not validated it until Huckerby scored with a fantastic volley from 20 yards on the rebound.}

Players' evaluations:

1- Joe Cannon: 6
He did his job but did not need to make any really decisive intervention. An easy game for the goalkeeper. 

4- Chris Leitch: 7
Had to take care of Takayuki Suzuki who was moved a lot and was the best Portland player in the first half. The right back is quick, calm, efficient and clean in each of his interventions. An very good game. Does not get a higher rate because the second half was easier.

3- Nick Garcia: 6
22- Kelly Gray: 6
2- Eric Denton: 6
The opposition wasn't strong enough to give them a higher rate, but they had a solid game. To be confirmed next week.

6- Darren Huckerby: 6.5
The English winger seemed in great shape and created many chances but lacked of precision in the last pass. Could have obtained a little more if the goal had been attributed to him.

12- Ramiro Corrales: 6.5
Did his defensive job well. He tried to bring his presence in the offensive phases but did not seem in a brilliant day.

7- Simon Elliot: 6
A good defensive midfielder. Did his job well but did not participate in any offensive phase.

10- Arturo Alvarez: 6.5
Like Huckerby, he tried a lot but lacked precision in the finish.

19- Ryan Johnson:
Was replaced by Quincy Amarikwa after 25 minutes because of an ankle injury. He should be ok for next week. Did not play long enough to be evaluated.

25- Quincy Amarikwa: 7.5:
Replaced Ryan Johnson after 25 minutes. Officially the goal scorer, he showed great skills and an incredible self-assurance for a young player making his first steps in a professional team. He is level is above expectations. He needs to improve his decisions inside the box, but has a great future in MLS!

17- Cam Weaver: 5.5
Didn't seem comfortable on the field and didn't have any impact in the box. Deflected a few balls in the air. This seems to be his main quality. According to Frank Yallop after the game, he still feels an ankle injury and couldn't give 100% tonight. Has to be better next week.

15- Shea Salinas: 7
Replaced Arturo Alvarez. He played only 25 minutes but had an immediate impact on the game, creating a great chance less than 2 minutes after coming

9- Pablo Campos:
Didn't have the expected impact but he didn't play long enough to be evaluated.

Quakes' Player Of The Day:

Quincy Amarikwa

San Jose Earthquakes 0-1 New England Revolution

QUAKES FALL 0-1 IN SEASON OPENER

^{16 shots were not enought to beat Matt Reis last Saturday - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

Clang! That was the sound of Cam Weaver’s golden opportunity to put the San Jose Earthquakes ahead in the 30^th minute going to waste. Weaver found himself six yards away with the ball being spilled to him by Revolution goalkeeper Matt Reis, who was prone on the field. The net was wide open and gaping but Weaver hit the ball with too much power, not enough precision and not enough technique and it caromed off the cross bar. Huckerby’s effort off the rebound sailed wide.

It was a shame for the San Jose faithful because the initial move to create the chance was a joy to behold. Arturo Alvarez, playing the wide right midfield position, got the ball on the right flank and cut inside onto his favored left boot. He unleashed a low shot from just outside the box to the far post. Reis dived to parry it away and onto Weaver’s foot who only needed to touch it across the line but it was not to be. With a 1-0 lead the whole complexion of the game changes and New England wouldn’t be able to sit back and wait to counter. The fans would  have exploded, the Quakes could have poured it on and perhaps gone into the half with another goal but that didn’t happen. It was a miss that would have dire consequences on the result for the home side.

The first twenty minutes of the match saw the Quakes on their heels a bit. They had trouble maintaining possession and were out muscled by the stout Revolution midfield players, such as Sharlie Jospeh, probably the top defensive midfielder in MLS.

However, their fortunes began to turn midway through the first half as the revamped Quakes midfield began to link up with each other and their forwards. New signing and American World Cup veteran Bobby Convey, with the team for less than two weeks, began to get a hold of the ball and keep possession. Ramiro Corrales began to assert some control in the center of the park. Darren Huckerby and Arturo Alvarez attacked down the flanks and created danger even switching sides of the field at times. The New England backline featured two rookies and no longer had Parkhurst anchoring the middle. The Revolution was also missing forward Taylor Twellman and veteran midfielder Steve Ralston. It was ripe to be defeated.

Unfortunately for the Earthquakes the first half ended 0-0 despite San Jose having more of the ball. The second half started slowly for the both teams and then suddenly a half chance turned into a goal for Kheli Dube and the Revs.

The goal came from a routine long ball by midfielder New England midfielder Jeff Larentowicz. Centerback Kelly Gray slightly mistimed his leap and the ball glanced backwards off his head and into the penalty area behind. Any defender who has ever played the game knows the dread of this feeling when it happens in this part of the pitch. In the center circle there is time to recover but not in front of goal. The ball fell to Dube’s foot and he blasted it past Joe Cannon before Leitch could adjust. It wasn’t much of an opportunity yet Dube took full advantage with a first rate finish and gave the Revs the 1-0 lead. It would be all they would need.

San Jose proceeded to take most of the possession and began to attack in waves but now the Revolution could get 10 men behind the ball and clog up all the space. Time and time again the Revs would block shots and passes before they ever troubled Reis. The inexperienced New England defenders proved to be athletic and well coached. Still Frank Yallop made some changes that helped improve the attack. Quincy Amarikwa came on for Ryan Johnson, who was playing on a sore ankle and not as aggressive as usual and several minutes later Shea Salinas came on for Arturo Alvarez to add a spark down the right.

^{Darren huckerby couldn't find the solution - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

Amarikwa brought energy and hustle and eventually got onto a ball just in front of goal but his flicked effort went wide. Salinas got some decent crosses in and Huckerby did as well just missing Weaver. Eventually Pablo Campos came on for Weaver in the 83^rd minute and with just minutes to go in the match Darren Huckerby put a short cross onto his head right in front of goal. It was another excellent chance but the header whistled wide of the left post. It should have been the second Earthquakes goal of the night but instead it was nothing. San Jose could have salvaged a point but at the end they were left with three points dropped. New England was filled with relief as they hustled off the field. The San Jose fans, who had chanted and cheered and put up with some rain felt letdown and cheated.

Still the home side fans have some reason to be optimistic.  The team, only in its second year back after all, had performed well, had given up almost no opportunities to the opposition and had created many more. Yet luck and finishing was not on their side so they had lost. Huckerby, Alvarez, Convey, and Corrales showed signs of a dynamic attacking midfield, that will only improve as the season progresses and they continue to play together. They can all interchange positions and attack in varied ways. Indeed it is a far more potent midfield than the Quakes trotted out in the first game last season. It was just that none of the chances created were finished. Amarikwa and Campos showed potential in their first MLS game and Weaver showed he could be a force. Indeed he should have been the hero yet his chance was blown off the crossbar. Clang!

San Jose Earthquakes 1-1 Colorado Rapids

^{Ryan Johnson scored for the Quakes and provoked a last minute penalty for the Rapids - Photo: Nap/TheProjectFC} 

The San Jose Earthquakes almost did everything right tonight. They just couldn't score a second goal out of many counter attack opportunities they had in the second half, which allowed Colorado to keep hope, fight until the end and finally be rewarded with a penalty kick in the last minute of stoppage time.

Until the 93rd minute, the Quakes had been the better team. They started the game with a lot of energy and created their first clear chance after only 2 minutes when Andre Luiz headed a high ball at the near post toward Salinas, alone at the 18. the right winger's beautiful volley ended up on Preston Burpo's opposite post.

Only 6 minutes later, Brandon McDonald took a throw on the left side directly inside the box to Ryan Johnson at the near post. The Quakes' forward, seeing Burpo hesitating halfway between his goal line and the ball lobbed Colorado's keeper and scored the first goal of the game (1-0, 8')

San Jose continued dominating the first half. Colorado had a better period between the 15^th and the 30^th minute but nothing really threatening for the locals. Cornell Glen, Shea Salinas and Bobby Convey were animating the game while Jason Hernandez, with the help of Andre Luiz, was containing Conor Casey. The tall and strong Colorado target man didn't have an easy game and San Jose's defenders won the physical challenge.

Both teams had ups and downs in the second half, but the Quakes seemed to be in control of the situation most of the time. Despite a miraculous double save by Cannon in the 68^th minute in front of Casey and Cummings, they even had more chances to double their lead than Colorado had opportunities to equalize.

They may have started playing lower on the field too early (The Quakes clearly took a more defensive approach after Cornell Glen's substitution¹ in the 59^th minute), but until this 93^rd minute, the Quakes had been the better team, dominating the first half and defending very well in the second.

However they never scored this second goal that could have prevented any late hazard and what often happens when you don't kill the game happened.

If the visitors' physical style, mostly made of long balls to Casey, wasn't pretty to watch, they at least had the capacity to stay in the game and believe they could get something out of it until the end.

After another long ball, they obtained their 9^th corner kick. All the Rapids' players, including Preston Burpo, their goalkeeper, were in the box, desperate to create confusion in the locals' defense.

^{Conor Casey scored on a penalty in the last minute of stoppage time - Photo: Nap/TheProjectFC} 

They managed to do so by deflecting the ball toward the 6-yard line were Ryan Johnson, trying to clear, caught a Drew Moor's shoulder with his arm. The Rapids' defender immediately collapsed and Mr Jurisevic (tonight's referee) called a penalty kick. Casey, who hadn't had a brilliant game so far, didn't miss the kick (1-1, 90'+3)

After the game, Frank Yallop and most of the players wanted to insist on the team's overall good performance.

They couldn't escape questions about the penalty though: "After seeing it again, I thought it was a penalty. He [Ryan Johnson] did put his hand on his shoulder and the player (Drew Moor) went down. It’s a tough result because we put so much into the match. To tie on the last kick of the game is tough tonight".

¹ Glen was having a good game until he received a knock on his right knee.

Post game interviews:

Frank Yallop:

Joe Cannon:

San Jose Earthquakes - Houston Dynamo preview

 Not a Must-win?

 
^{Nick Garcia and his team mates had a very serious session today, focused on possession and positioning}

After today's training, Frank Yallop didn't want to insist on the pressure that already weighs on his team after last Saturday's result (0-1 loss at home against New England Revolution).

"I think every game is a must-win", he said. "We have to get 3 points every time we can. Not losing this one is important, but we are going to try to win the 3 points at home". When we insisted, asking if last week's loss had put more pressure on the team for the Houston game, he tried to minimize the importance of winning next Saturday: "Not really. It's only the second game of the season, and all you need in this league is make the playoffs, it does allow you breathing space. If you look at last year, we picked up a ton of points in a hurry and nearly made it. We don't want to end up trying to chase other teams from 20 points behind, but being 3 or 4 points behind some teams after a few weeks is not terrible. [...] I think we played well enough last week to get at least a point, if not 3 and we wouldn't be saying what we're saying now!"

Brian Ching out with US National team!

Yallop prefered to insist on Brian Ching's absence next Saturday. "Brian [Ching] is such a good player that [...] he'd make a difference to any team and they will miss him".

The Quakes' coach, however, admitted that today's players' attitude at training had been "very aggressive", adding that "[he] liked that"...Maybe a sign that they can feel the pressure that their coach is trying to hide. The pressure of Saturday's result of course (loosing at home a second time in two matches would be devastating for the team's morale and league's standings), but also the pressure for each of them to prove they deserve a spot in the starting 11.

After only one game, Yallop has not found his ideal 11 yet and with Jason Hernandez injured (Out for at least a couple of more weeks, more likely 4 weeks or more), Ryan Johnson uncertain (Achilles Tendinitis) and Simon Elliott on the road with the New Zealand National Team, a few spots on the field and on the bench are open and no one wants to miss the opportunity.

With that in mind, here is a possible lineup for Saturday:

                                   Ryan Johnson                      Cam Weaver

                       (or Pablo Campos)          (or Quincy Amarikwa)

Darren Huckerby                                                                              Arturo Alvarez

                                                                                                          (or Shea Salinas)

                               Ramiro Corrales (c.)            Bobby Convey

Eric Denton               Nick Garcia                     Ryan Cochrane         Chris Leitch

                                                                               (or Kelly Gray)

                                                         Joe Cannon

^{Bold: almost certain unless last minute injury occurs}

No need to comment on the 7 "almost certain" players. If no injury occurs and unless the club signs a stronger player in one of these positions (or unless one of them makes 2 or 3 really poor performances in a row), they should start most of the games this season.

A possible move from the team captain, Ramiro Corrales from center midfield to left back, with Simon Elliott replacing him in the middle and Eric Denton pushed on the bench has been mentioned in the past weeks. I personally don't believe in Corrales playing left back and, Elliott not being there this week (National team duty) the question won't be answered until next week anyway.

Our guess for the rest:

Defense:

In the absence of Jason Hernandez and Ryan Cochrane, Kelly Gray has proved to be a reliable option in central defense for the Quakes. Cochrane is now fit again and for the second spot in central defense Yallop will probably decide between him and Gray, even though Jamil Roberts is credited with good performances at training and is a credible option too.

Midfield:

Arturo Alvarez should start again on the right wing. Shea Salinas is not far behind and will probably have a chance to show he can be more than a good substitute before the end of the season...Probably not this week yet.

Offense:

A lot of questions appeared after last week's loss: Will Ryan Johnson be fit again after leaving the field injured last Saturday? Is Cam Weaver able to be better than he showed last week? Is Pablo Campos a credible option? Is Amarikwa too young to pretend to a starting spot?

What clues do we have?

Ryan Johnson seemed to be fit today and played hard in the first half of the session. However, he felt the pain again and had to slow down  in the second half. He should be able to start the game, but will Yallop start with a player who may not be able to play more than 45 minutes?

Cam Weaver would for sure have another chance to prove he is a good finisher if it was not for Pablo Campos' impressive performances at training. His coach is very happy with his work, and he is definitely a credible alternative.

Quincy Amarikwa has been used as a joker so far. His status shouldn't change this week. Frank Yallop is happy, and sometimes even impressed with his potential, but he will prefer to start with more experienced strikers.

Davide Somma is here as well, ready to jump on any opportunity to show what he can do. We have little chance to see him on the field on Saturday though.

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^{Ryan Johnson (left with Nick Garcia) and Ryan Cochrane (right, in front of Darren Huckerby) are both "probable" for Saturday.}

Ryan Cochrane Returns To Houston In Exchange For An International Slot

Ryan Cochrane leaves San Jose to join Houston for the second time! Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC

The San jose Earthquakes have announced that Ryan Cochrane has been traded to Houston Dynamo in exchange for an International slot.

Cochrane played only 2 games with the Quakes this season before his ankle surgery. Back from his surgery, he never had a chance to play again. This move will give him the opportunity to have a new start with his ex-team while the Quakes, according to Centerlinesoccer.com, could use this new international slot to sign Brazilian defender Fabio Da Silva.

Andre Luiz: 6 months + 3 optional years

After today's game against the Seattle Sounders, Andre Luiz told us a little more about his contract. The Brazilian international midfielder his on loan from Jaguares de Chiapas for 6 months. After that, there is an option for 3 more years.

My interpretation (but this remains to be confirmed), is that the San Jose Earthquakes have the option to definitely purchase the player at the end of the loan, Andre Luiz having signed a pre-contract that links him to San jose for 3 additional years if the deal between the 2 clubs is confirmed.

To watch Andre Luiz' video interview, click here!

San Jose Earthquakes 1-2 New York Red Bulls - Post Game Interviews

Watch Post Game Interviews Below or Click Here to Read Match Report

Frank Yallop:

Eric Denton (tonight's team capain):

Quincy Amarikwa (Best Quake tonight):

San Jose Earthquakes 1-2 New York Red Bulls - Quakes out of US Open Cup

Read Match Report below or Click here for post game interviews (video)

Cold Night At Buck Shaw

Tonight's nice fresh evening in Santa Clara quickly turned to a cold dark night.

It only took 1 minute to the New York Red Bulls to win possession and score the first goal of the game after, again, after a poor clearance from the Quakes (Davide Somma, this time) on a corner kick.

^{Eric Denton, captain for one night - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

With a lot of key players injured, Frank Yallop's main goal tonight was to avoid any other injury or suspension. The objective was apparently reached and, with Quincy Amarikwa's good individual performance, it is the only good news of the day for the Quakes.

San Jose's Head Coach didn't want to win this game at all cost. The lineup and the attitude of some players confirmed that. But when you give the opportunity to young players to show what they can do against a competitive opposition, you expect to get something positive out of the experience.

Yes, Amarikwa confirmed that he represents a credible option as a starter, but this was the only satisfaction. Mike Zaher (left back) was completely overwhelmed most of the time, Brandon McDonald (center midfield) didn't have any impact, Davide Somma (center forward) was transparent and Andrew Weber (goalkeeper) never seemed to be reassuring his defense.

Even worse, the usual starters weren't better. Shea Salinas and Chris Leitch on the right wing had a nightmare trying to stop Macoumba Kandji and ran into each other every time they tried to switch positions, Eric Denton (captain and central defender tonight) is definitely not a central defender and Simon Elliott's performance was hardly above the team's average.

Along with Amarikwa, only Kelly Gray played at a decent level tonight, doing his defensive job with calm and efficiency, as often.

No need to say this was not enough to win the game.

However, the Quakes at least had the good idea to resist to New York's domination in the rest of the first half and then had their chance in the second.

Between Pablo Campos' presence (replacing Somma at half time) and Macoumba Kandji's substitution (by Matthew Mbuta, 56') which event had the biggest influence on the better Quake's period in the first 30 minutes of the second half.

Nothing brilliant, but they had the ball more often and created more interesting situations during these 30 minutes than during the rest of the game.

And with a little luck, they even managed to completely come back in the game. After a bad throw from New York in their own half, Salinas quickly understood the referee's call, caught the ball and threw it to Campos, probably before the Red Bulls' defenders had time to really understand what was going on. Campos entered the 18, resisted to Danleigh Borman's return and beat Danny Cepero.

Campos' celebration after scoring the equalizer was very demonstrative. After running toward the Ultras and kissing the Earhquakes' badge on his shirt in front of them, he ran toward the bench and hugged Frank Yallop.

With this goal, he thought he was offering his team the right to play 30 extra minutes, or maybe even better if they could take advantage of the momentum.

Unfortunately for the local team, 5 minutes later, New York started to hold the ball again, dominated the rest of the game and logically scored the winning goal 10 minutes before the end. Mike Zaher was too far from Dominic Oduro to prevent him from offering a gift to John Wolyniec, alone in the box (1-2, 80')

The night felt even colder in the final 10 minutes and, if it was not enough bad news for the Quakes' fans, Nick Garcia and Jamil Roberts are both stuck at home with the flu, both questionable for next Saturday's game against Chivas...

...It's freezing now, time to go home!

Watch post game (video) interviews

San Jose Earthquakes 2 - 0 Houston Dynamo

[Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release] 

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes won their second preseason game in three days on Sunday afternoon with a 2-0 victory over the Houston Dynamo at Alex G. Spanos Stadium in the Major League Soccer Central Coast Showcase. Cam Weaver and Ryan Johnson each recorded a goal in the second half to lead the Quakes to the win in cool and windy conditions.

Sunday's match saw its first scoring chance in the 20th minute as Houston's Mike Chabala sent a long throw in to the near post that Kei Kamara flicked across the goal face. Brian Mullan ran on and put a head on the ball, but directed his shot high over the crossbar.

Andrew Hainault nearly found the net for the Dynamo in the 26th minute. Chabala sent a free kick to the far post that found Hainault a step in front of his mark. Hainault slid and flicked a shot that found side netting, just wide of a go-ahead tally.

The Earthquakes missed a golden chance in the 61st minute as Darren Huckerby crossed one onto Houston keeper Tally Hall's doorstep. Shea Salinas timed his run perfectly and had a clear shot at the ball, but couldn't connect.

Weaver put the Earthquakes on the board in the 62nd minute. Weaver struck a volley from just a few yards out thanks to a cross from Johnson. The goal was the first allowed by Houston in four pre-season matches.

Johnson upped San Jose's lead to 2-0 in the 69th minute. The rangy striker found plenty of space on the left and dribbled unopposed into the box before booming a low shot to the near post that beat Hall for Johnson's third goal of the MLS Central Coast Showcase.

San Jose all but sealed its result in the 74th minute, as Kamara was sent off with a straight red card for a hard tackle on Nick Garcia in the Earthquakes' box.

MLS Central Coast Showcase (Preseason)

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Houston Dynamo

February 15, 2009 – Alex G Spanos Stadium; San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Attendance: 1,587

Scoring Summary

SJ – Cam Weaver (Ryan Johnson) 62; SJ – Ryan Johnson (unassisted) 69.

Houston Dynamo: Pat Onstad (Tally Hall 46), Mike Chabala, Andrew Hainault (Julius James 73), Eddie Robinson (Bobby Boswell), Craig Waibel (Stephen Wondolowski 70), Brad Davis (Corey Ashe 76), Stuart Holden (John Michael Hayden 62), Richard Mulrooney (Geoff Cameron 46), Brian Mullan (Erik Ustruck 78), Kei Kamara (red card 74), Chris Wondolowski.

San Jose Earthquakes: Joe Cannon, Alex Zotinca, Kelly Gray, Nick Garcia, David Hayes (Eric Denton 62), Darren Huckerby (Alfonso Motagalvan 81), Ramiro Corrales (Tim Merritt 81), Simon Elliott (Ned Grabavoy 62), Shea Salinas (Anton Peterlin 86), Quincy Amarikwa (Cam Weaver 8) (Davide Somma 70), Ryan Johnson (Inigo Idiakez 70). 

Misconduct Summary:

HOU – Eddie Robinson caution (reckless foul) 55; HOU – Kei Kamara ejection (reckless foul) 74; HOU – Bobby Boswell caution (reckless foul) 75.

Kansas City Wizards 2-0 San Jose Earthquakes

The San Jose Earthquakes didn't play particularly well on the road last year (only 2 wins in 15 games). The least we can say is that their first 2009 away game didn't bring any hope that things are going to be different this year.

After 30 minutes and the first Wizards' goal, Frank Yallop didn't want to take the weather as an excuse. "It has nothing to do with that", he said.

The wind probably didn't help finding Cam Weaver in the air, but if there was an excuse to find, the narrowness of the field would probably be a better one. It was very difficult to find Huckerby and Alvarez on the wings. They always seemed to be lost in the traffic.

Sending long balls to the forwards or playing quickly down the wings being the two strengths of the team, things were going to be difficult for the Quakes.

With a goal in each half, Kansas City did the job and logically won without being really threatened at any moment of the game.

San Jose had a better period when Simon Elliott replaced Eric Denton (52^nd). Down by only one goal at this point, the Quakes switched from their usual 4-4-2 to a 3-5-2 formation and had their best opportunity less than 2 minutes later when Elliott took a shot from outside the box that went just wide left.

With one extra midfielder, Alvarez and Huckerby finally had a chance to see the ball. Unfortunately, Huckerby seemed tired and not in his best form today and Alvarez' attempts lacked of precision.

Despite this better period, the Wizards never seemed to be out of position and patiently waited for a counter attack opportunity. It came in the 78^th minute when Claudio Lopez, alone on front of Joe Cannon, put the ball in the back of the net.

The Earthquakes are not the only team which is going to lose at Kansas City but today's performance pointed out some limits in the current Quakes' game. Only two players (Alvarez and Huckerby) are able to really put the ball on the ground and find offensive solutions. When the long balls can't find their target (Weaver or Johnson), and when the opponent blocks the wings well enough, the absence of a player able to hold the ball in the center becomes apparent.

Bobby Convey, who needs to get used to his new position as a center midfield (he played on the wing in the past), or Simon Elliott who made a promising appearance today, are going to try to prove they can become this player. Unless (a) new player(s) are signed, this may be the only chance for the Quakes to show something else than a predictable game.

San Jose Earthquakes 3-3 Chicago Fire

Read Match Report below or Click here for Audio and video interviews.

^{Darren Huckerby's cross to Ryan Johnson for the first goal of the game - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

After last week's loss (0-2 loss at Kansas City), the San Jose Earthquakes needed to show a better performance today at Buck Shaw Stadium (Santa Clara)

Frank Yallop decided to change one player in each line. Ryan Cochrane replaced Kelly Gray in defense, Simon Elliott took Bobby Convey's place in the midfield and Pablo Campos took over for Cam Weaver upfront. Convey moved to left back, leaving Eric Denton on the bench for the first half.

With Simon Elliott starting the game, Frank Yallop brought more power in the center of midfield, hoping to help the team possessing the ball and finding other solutions than long balls directly from the defense to Cam Weaver's head.

The plan seemed to work in the first half.

The Quakes deservedly took the lead a first time, after Chris Leitch sent a long ball in the diagonal of the field, from his right back position to Darren Huckerby on the left wing. On the first touch, Huckerby eliminated Brandon Prideaux finding himself in front of the goal. With Jon Bush (Chicago's goalkeeper) Huckerby had no angle and saw Ryan Johnson coming in the center. The pass hit the target and Johnson just had to push the ball into the net (1-0, 14')

With Blanco on the bench, Chicago had a few good situations, Tim Ward being the biggest threat with his long shots. Joe Cannon was here to save his team until Logan Pause found Marco Pappa alone on the right, inside the box. San Jose's defense completely forgot him and he had all the time to place a low shot in the back of the net (1-1, 41')

The Quakes were still in the game at this point and proved it with an immediate reaction. Bobby Convey, who didn't seem very comfortable so far playing left back for the first time, intercepted a ball 40 yards from the goal. Chicago's defenders didn't expect their team to loose the ball so quickly and were still moving up when Convey ran past the defensive line and beat Bush (2-1, 43')

^{Bobby Convey's rush before scoring the second Quakes' goal before half time - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

With the lead at half time, the Quakes were in a good situation. The game was still open, not everything was perfect, but they looked confident and there was no reason for this to change.

Is it Blanco's presence in the second half that paralysed them? Is it the tactical change made by Yallop at half time that disturbed his players? Or did the Fire just play better after the break...too well for the local team?

They came back from the locker room with Denton who replaced Blanco. Blanco had tried to break into Chicago's defense a lot in the first half, but looked a little clumsy  in the last touch, often walking on the ball or falling, hoping to obtain a penalty. Convey took his place upfront. The goal was probably to have someone able to hold the ball and not loose it too quickly.

Unfortunately for the Earthquakes, they made too many mistakes to give Convey a chance to show what he could do in (again) a new position for him.

The number of easy passes missed by the Quakes grew incredibly in the second half, putting themselves in difficult situations that could have been easily avoided. Blanco was ready to take advantage of any ball. He is still not quick but, somehow, he often manages to find himself unmarked 25 to 20 yards from the goal, with enough time to make the right pass.

He missed a few of them, but in the 57^th minute, he found Brian Mc Bride at the 18. The forward, facing his own goal, had a beautiful first touch that allowed him to turn around and shoot in the inside of Cannon's left side net (2-2, 57')

^{Arturo Alvarez before...}

Huckerby then tried to make a difference alone a couple of times, but Chicago's defense remained solid. The visitors were actualy now clearly dominating the game and, with so many mistakes and easy balls given away, the Quakes were lucky to obtain a penalty and take the lead again by Alvarez (3-2, 75^th)

^{...And after taking the penalty and scoring what should have been the winning goal - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

Unfortunately, more mistakes were to come and they couldn't hold on to this lead.

Salinas, who replaced Hukerby 20 minutes earlier, made the first of two major mistakes by delaying a restart (he threw the ball away while Chicago wanted to play a throw quickly), knowing that he already had a yellow card. The referee showed him the card for the second time and the right winger had to go back to the locker room early (82')

Immediately, Chicago took advantage of the situation and outnumbered the Quakes on a couple of occasions. That's how Chris Rolfe, in the center, about 22 yards away from the goal, found himself with the ball and all the time to adjust his shot. It was powerful. However, it seemed to be directed to Cannon's hands. The Quakes' keeper, looking sure of himself, tried to catch the ball, but it slipped out of his hands and finished its run in the back of the net (3-3, 85')

With such a poor second half the final score could have been worse for the Quakes. The most worrying aspect of their game is the fact that they are not able to confidently hold the ball. Whether they have to hol the score like tonight or they need to reduce the pace of the game (like last week in Salt Lake), they can't play whole games only by sending long balls to the forwards or running quickly forward on the wings. The Quakes are doing these two things well, but when they're out of gas, they also need to be able to hold the ball in the middle and make their opponent run after it. It's already not easy at home, but, playing like this, it will be almost impossible to get results away.

Next game against the LA Galaxy at the Oakland Coliseum is already a must win. With only 4 points in 4 games, including 3 home games, the Quakes are below par and already need to improve the situation quickly.

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San Jose Earthquakes 1-1 Los Angeles Galaxy

^{Bryan Jordan is first on the ball and scores the equalizer in front - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC}

- Read Match Report             - View post game interviews

Seattle Sounders 2-0 San Jose Earthquakes

With a very good Freddie Ljungberg and the unbeatable Kasey Keller, Seattle confirmed tonight their excellent start of the season as an expansion team.

With 4 wins and 2 losses, the Sounders are above all expectations while the San Jose Earthquakes don't seem to be able to build on last year's promises and are slowly sinking in the bottom of the tables. The situation could quickly become desperate if they don't improve their performances soon.

The injuries of Jason Hernandez, Ryan Cochrane, Darren huckerby and now Ramiro Corrales (replaced by Simon Elliott at half time with an ankle injury) don't help but can not explain the difficulties of the Quakes so far this season.

Tonight's first goal came after the defense couldn't clear a ball from a corner kick which didn't look dangerous until two defenders tried to clear the same ball and ended up missing it. This was right before half time and, if San Jose came back from the locker room with better intentions, it is just after creating their best opportunity of the match (Ryan Johnson's header brilliantly saved by Keller) that they got caught out of position on a counter attack and conceded the second goal.

With Hernandez and Cochrane sidelined, Kelly Gray was associated to Nick Garcia in central defense. Gray, who knows he only owes his place to Hernandez' injury, surprisingly seemed to be the strong link of the defense every time he played in this position this season and this was the case again tonight. His calm offers a contrast with Garcia's apparent nervousness.

But the reasons for the Quakes' recent poor performances are probably elsewhere.

While he can count on Gray to replace Hernandez and/or Cochrane in the exact same role, Frank Yallop is still looking for a balanced system in the midfield and for offensive solutions able to threaten the opposition.

In spite of a slightly better ability to possess and hold the ball tonight than in the past weeks, most of the time, San Jose's forwards looked inoffensive.

The fact that the 2 central midfielders (Corrales and Convey tonight) are exclusively defensive players has already been mentioned here. Simon Elliott taking over for Corrales at half time didn't change anything. Convey has shown some interesting offensive skills the few times he played in other positions (left back or left midfield), but as a center midfielder he was transparent again tonight.

Arturo Alvarez, on the right wing has not tried to cross with his right foot once! It is sometimes a good idea to have a left footed player on the right wing to give him the possibility to run in the inside and take long shots, but you need to have someone who is able, at least, to try a cross with his other foot once in a while if you don't want to make the defender's job easy.

In front of them, Ryan Johnson and Pablo Campos are physically impressive and are doing an amazing job harassing their defenders and winning many balls in the air, but they both lack technical skills.

Having 2 players of this type in the starting line up may be one too many. Cam Weaver being another tall, strong but clumsy forward (he replaced Campos 13 minutes before the end tonight and lost almost all the balls he had to play), the only solution for a more technical touch up front may be Quincy Amarikwa, who immediately had an impact when he replaced Shea Salinas (65').

Despite his impressive ability to control the ball in any position and immediately turn towards the goal and create good situations, Yallop used him only as a joker so far, probably because of his lack of experience leading him to often make the wrong decision in the last pass. However, the situation may push the coach to give the Quakes' number 25 a chance to start a game earlier than expected.

With Huckerby injured, Shea Salinas started on the left wing. He couldn't make a difference and didn't always seem comfortable on this side of the field, but his energy is really adding something to his team. When Huckery is back, Yallop will have Salinas available to play on the right wing and probably able to be more dangerous than Alvarez in the same position. It doesn't necessarily mean leaving Alvarez on the bench. He played forward last year. It is definitely not his favorite position, but this is another option for the near future...

Again, making defensive mistakes can happen, and it always happens much more often when your team can't possess the ball and the game is always coming back in your own 30 yards. The Quakes need to find a solution to sometimes hold the ball and make their opponent run instead of always trying to send it immediately forward, otherwise, they will be the ones running after the ball and more mistakes and goals allowed will occur.

None of the options mentionned above will magically transform the team and even if Huckerby's return can probably help a lot, the main question today is: Does Frank Yallop have the solution in his current squad (and in this case, there is no reason to think he won't eventually find it) or will it require new signings?

San Jose Earthquakes acquire Aaron Pitchkolan (FC Dallas)

The San Jose Earthquakes have announced today the acquisition of central defenders Aaron Pitchkolan from FC Dallas in exchange for a conditional pick in the 2011 SuperDraft.

With Hernandez injured since the beginning of the season and Ryan Cochrane recovering from his ankle surgery, the Quakes needed to reinforce its squad in this position.

Here is what the official press release says about Pitchkolan:

[“We are happy to bring Aaron to San Jose,” said Earthquakes general manager of soccer operations John Doyle. “He is an experienced MLS player who has great versatility. We think he will be a solid addition to our squad.”

The 26-year-old, who was drafted in 2005 by FC Dallas, has made one appearance in 2009 entering as a sub on March 29 vs. Chivas USA. For his career, he has made 68 appearances for FC Dallas and scored five goals. In 2008 he made a career-high 21 appearances, with 15 starts. He scored four goals in all competitions in 2008, including one regular season strike.

Pitchkolan appeared in 16 regular season games in 2007 playing as a defensive midfielder and center back.  He also made 10 appearances on the reserve team. In 2006 Pitchkolan played in 10 games.  He scored the game-winning goal late in second half stoppage time in the 2-1 win vs. KC on April 23.

A native of Colorado, Pitchkolan played college soccer at West Virginia. He appeared in 54 matches in three years and scored 11 goals for the Mountaineers. He also spent one season at the University of Tampa.]

San Jose Earthquakes 1 - 3 Toronto FC

Read Match report below or Click here to view Video Interviews

^{Dwayne De Rosario, man of the match tonight- Photo: Nap - The ProjectFC}

The Bay Soccer is finally back. Darren Huckerby as well! Unfortunately for the San Jose Earthquakes, even though the english player scored the only goal of his team, he didn't make a huge difference...

The game started as last week's game at Salt Lake City ended for the Quakes: It was disappointing.

San Jose was not able to put 2 passes together and after a few chances for Toronto, brilliantly saved by Joe Cannon and Jason Hernandez, the keeper couldn't do anything when Dwayne De Rosario lobbed Mike Zaher inside the box to pass the ball to Chad Barrett. Alone at the 6-yard line, Toronto's striker easily found the back of the net (0-1, 6')

If the beginning of the game was disappointing, the end was going to be worse. "Disaster" could be a good word to describe the events of the second half.

Before that, the Quakes had a better period in the last 15 minutes of the first half. They had a few good opportunities and managed to cash in one of them in the 34th minute. Arturo Alvarez sent a long ball in Ryan Johnson's run. The forward perfectly controlled it and brought it into the box before being closed down by 3 defenders. He somehow managed to hold on to the ball until Darren Huckerby arrived, unmarked, at the penalty spot. Johnson found a space between the 3 defenders to pass the ball to Huckerby who just had to push it inside the net, out of reach of Stefan Frei (1-1, 34')

Fired up by the equalizer, the Quakes then had a good end of the first half, and even created a few good situations that were close to giving them the lead. They seemed to be definitely back in the game.

It is difficult to tell why they came back from the locker room so "flat" (to use Frank Yallop's word), but, as they did in the first 30 minutes of the first half, they looked like they were not ready to play this game.

In the 54th minute, Nana Attakora beat Chris Leitch in the air and pushed the ball to Pablo Vitti, incredibly free 2 yards from the goal. Joe Cannon had anticipated at the far post and Vitti just had to push the ball into the net. (1-2, 54')

This time, the Quakes were not going to come back. After 58 minutes, Yallop finally decided to replace Pablo Campos by Cornell Glen. After just 2 minutes, he brought back some hope at Buck Shaw, almost making the difference himself twice. Unfortunately, too many one on one challenges lost and too many easy passes missed didn't allow him to receive the ball in good conditions and Toronto quickly managed to control the game again.

The Quakes' performance was poor. It turned into a disaster in the 69th minute when, in a good position to easily win a long ball from De Rosario, San Jose's defender suddenly collapsed, leaving the way free to Barrett who just had to dribble Cannon at the edge of the box to kill the game (1-3, 69')

^{Aaron Pitchkolan and Mike Zaher couldn't stop Chad Barrett - Photo: Nap - The ProjectFC}

Tonight, the Earthquakes didn't only lose a game. They lost their last chances to make the playoffs, and proved they didn't deserve it. They lost an important player, probably for several weeks with a harmstring injury and Frank Yallop, after a few better performances by his team in the past weeks, lost a lot of illusions. After the game, he admitted that his team "didn't look ready to play this game" and couldn't explain why. "I am surprised", he said.

After 17 games, the Quakes' head coach is still looking for solutions. "I don't want to talk about that right now" he said, "I need to look at the video and see who I want to change, but there will be some changes".

Obviously, he couldn't be happy with what his team showed tonight. However, trying new players at each game as if it was still the preseason is not a good sign. Maybe he just doesn't have enough quality in his roster to build a competitive team.

View Post-game Video Interviews

Earthquakes Trade Campos to Real Salt Lake

^{Like Cam Weaver, Campos didn't have the expected impact on the Quakes performances.}

The San Jose Earthquakes announced today that Pablo Campos has been traded to Real Salt Lake for a second draft pick in the 2010 Superdraft and a conditional pick in the 2011 Superdraft.

After Cam Weaver, Campos is the second first team forward signed in the preseason to be traded. In addition to Ryan Johnson, Cornell Glen, Chris Wondolowski and Quincy Amarikwa are now the 3 remaining forwards on the Quakes' roster.

Andre Luiz: "I am an Earthquake"

^{Andre Luiz Moreira - Photo: Televisadeportes.com}

Seen in the locker room area after tonight's game against DC United (2-2 Read Match Report Here), the brasilian international defender (19 selections, 2 goals), Andre Luiz Moreira just had time to confirm to me he had signed a contract with the San Jose Earthquakes before I've been told by the Quakes' Communications staff that I couldn't interview him tonight as nothing was official.

However, it seems almost certain now that the ex-Sao Paulo, Corinthians (Brasil), Tenerife (Spain), Olympique Marseille, Paris Saint Germain and AC Ajaccio (France) defender's signing will be announced soon, probably in the first days of next week.

What I can say about him is what I remember from his years in France. He played one season for Marseille in 2001 on loan (from Tenerife, I think) and had a good season, before being transfered to l'OM's biggest rival, Paris Saint Germain. He stayed one season in Paris (2002-2003) where he had a difficult time. He then went back to Brasil and came back to France, after a stop in Portugal where he appeared only 3 times for Benfica.

The 34 year-old defender joined Ajaccio AC (French top division back then) in 2004 where he stayed 2 seasons, played 54 games and left a very good image of himself.

His Wikipedia page (here) says that he spent the last 2 seasons in Mexico at Chiapas FC (Jaguares) where he played 51 games.

He has for sure the ability to be a great player for the Earthquakes, the only question being in which shape he currently is...

...I should be able to tell you more soon!

Chicago Fire 2 - 0 San Jose Earthquakes

Blanco 2-0 San Jose Earthquakes

Saying that the Quakes didn't play such a bad game after a 2-0 loss against a less than impressive team may sound awkward. However, tonight's performance by San Jose, far from being excellent, was much better than last week's loss (1-3 at home against Toronto)

They didn't deserve to win, but if it was not for Cuauhtemoc Blanco (1 assist, 1 goal) who completely changed the run of the game when he replaced Peter Lowry, they would have obtained a deserved point from their trip to Chicago.

One can regret that they waited for the first goal to really try to shake Chicago's defense, but after last week's terrible performance, the confidence was low and trying to get one point from a road game wouldn't have been a bad result.

Frank Yallop had decided to change his usual 4-4-2 to a 4-5-1 with Chris Wondolowski as an offensive midfielder/second forward. That is not the way the head coach likes to play, but it was important for his team to find some confidence and winning possession in the midfield was probably the best way to do so.

After suffering a lot in the first 15 minutes, the Quakes started to take advantage of their density in the midfield and, without being brilliant, came back in a game that could have turned either way.

Antonio Ribeiro, Arturo Alvarez, Darren Huckerby and Chris Wondolowski were very aggressive and focused on their tasks and did their job.

That was until Blanco came in with 30 minutes to go and put the Earthquakes defense on fire. After threatening the Quakes many times, he finally found Patrick Nyarko in the box. Blanco's ball between the back of the defenders and Joe Cannon was so perfect that Nyarko just had to slightly deflect it to beat the Quakes' keeper. (1-0, 82')

The Quakes then tried everything to equalize and, in the injury time, willing to make good use of one of their last weapons, the Quakes lost the ball 30 yards from the goal in the center. Wilman Conde inherited the gift and transmitted it to Chicago's number 10 who magically chipped the ball above Cannon who could only deflect it in his own goal (2-0 90'+1)

With a better result, tonight's performance, again, far from being impressive, could have been considered as the first step of the Earthquakes' convalescence.

Instead, it will remind them of their difficulties to bring the ball and create chances in the opposition's box.

Fighting spirit and more solidarity, especially in the midfield are 2 ingredients the Earthquakes need. If playing 4-5-1 can help them gaining confidence, it is probably something to continue and even improve with a real 5^th midfielder. Ribeiro, Alvarez (who, it is not new, would be more comfortable in the center or on the left than on the right wing) and Wondolwski had an interesting game today. McDonanld in central defense, may have found his best role.

These are good points but it won't be enough. New signings are expected soon. They need to bring some freshness and some skills to the roster or the end of the season will be very difficult.

Earthquakes Sign Salvadoran National Team Captain Ramon Sanchez

  [Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release]

Earthquakes Sign Salvadoran National Team Captain Ramon Sanchez

SAN JOSE, Calif. –- The San Jose Earthquakes announced today that the team has signed the captain of the El Salvador national team Ramon Sanchez. Per league and team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.  He will be added to the roster pending the arrival of his ITC.

"There have been a number of successful players in Major League Soccer from El Salvador and we think that Ramon has the ability to make an impact here also," said General Manager John Doyle. "We were looking for a player to solidify the central midfield. He has experience playing that position in a number of important games for his country and we believe he can fill that role for us."

The 27-year-old central midfielder has made more than 50 appearances for El Salvador’s senior national squad, scoring two goals.  In 2002 he won the gold medal with the Salvadoran under-22 team in the Juegos Deportivos Centroamericanos, beating Mexico in the final.

Sanchez played most recently with El Salvador in the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup. He also appeared in the 2007 Gold Cup and 2003 Gold Cup. The San Juan Opico native has also appeared in every World Cup qualifying match for the upcoming tournament in South Africa. He was part of the Salvadoran team that competed in World Cup qualifying for Germany 2006.

Sanchez most recently played professionally with Alianza F.C. of the first division in El Salvador. He scored three goals in the 2009 season for Alianza, which was good for second most on the team. Sanchez has also played for Arcense, San Salvador F.C. and C.D. Chalatenango, before joining Alianza in 2008. He has played 227 games in the Salvadoran first division and scored 19 goals.

Ramon Sanchez #20

Status: Senior/International

Position: Midfielder

Height: 6-0

Weight: 163 lbs

Born: May 25, 1982 in San Juan Opico, El Salvador

Hometown: San Juan Opico, El Salvador

Last Club: Alianza F.C. (El Salvador)

Citizenship: El Salvador

[Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release]

Huckerby, The End?

^{Darren Huckerby saved the Quakes' season last year. Photo: Nap/The ProjectFC}

The San Jose Earthquakes announced this morning that Darren Huckerby "had surgery Friday, Sept. 11 to repair a torn labrum in his right hip at Steadman Hawkins Clinic in Vail, Colorado."

This will keep it away of the fields until the end of the season...and of his contract.

Darren Huckerby played in 14 games this season, scoring 3 goals and offering 3 assists but he didn't have the same impact as last year when he arrived from Norwich City (England) in the middle of the season and helped the team to almost make the playoffs.

Huckerby's intentions for his future are unknown, but this may be the end of the left midfielder's carreer, at least with the San jose Earthquakes.

New England Revolution 2-1 San Jose Earthquakes

[Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release]

Earthquakes Allow Two Second-Half Goals to Lose 2-1 to Revs

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The San Jose Earthquakes lost 2-1 to the New England Revolution on Saturday night at Gillette Stadium. Ramon Sanchez scored his first career MLS goal late in the game to get the Quakes on the board, but two Revolution goals midway through the second half were the difference. For a full recap go to sjearthquakes.com.

San Jose Earthquakes (5-12-5) vs. New England Revolution (9-6-6)

August 29, 2009 – Gillette Stadium

Attendance: 7,286

Scoring Summary: NE – Steve Ralston (Shalrie Joseph) 68; NE – Wells Thompson (Steve Ralston) 74; SJ – Ramon Sanchez (Ramiro Corrales, Quincy Amarikwa) 92+.

Misconduct Summary:  SJ – Ramiro Corrales (caution) 4; SJ – Ramon Sanchez (caution) 48; NE – Wells Thompson (caution) 75.

San Jose Earthquakes -- Joe Cannon, Chris Leitch, Brandon McDonald, Andre Luiz, Ramiro Corrales, Shea Salinas (Quincy Amarikwa 75), Simon Elliott, Ramon Sanchez, Darren Huckerby (Ryan Johnson 66), Arturo Alvarez, Chris Wondolowski.

Statistics:  Shots 11; Shots on Goal 6; Saves 6; Fouls 13; Offsides 2; Corner Kicks 6.

New England Revolution: -- Matt Reis, Kevin Alston, Darrius Barnes, Emmanuel Osei, Jay Heaps, Wells Thompson, Shalrie Joseph, Jeff Larentowicz, Mauricio Castro (Sainey Nyassi 57), Steve Ralston, Kheli Dube (Pat Phelan 62).

Statistics:  Shots 14; Shots on Goal 8; Saves 5; Fouls 13; Offsides 1; Corner Kicks 4.

Quotes

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH FRANK YALLOP

On the game:

“In the first half we came out strong and created enough good chances to get a goal, but we didn’t have the final touch that we needed. They came into the game a bit in the second half and we got punished for our mistakes, something that we didn’t do to them in the first half. We need to score when we are having a good spell.”

On defending:

“We always seem to allow the second goal right after the first. That is something that we have to correct. If you are down only one, you can get back in it quickly, but a two-goal deficit is difficult. The goal at the end did not mean much when we were down two.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI

Rating team’s performance:

“It is disappointing to lose tonight because we wasted a decent performance. We could have scored in the first half and that would have made the game a bit different, but we had some stretches of mediocre play and they scored. We have to play the full 90 minutes.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER RAMON SANCHEZ

On game:

“We played a good first half, but once they scored that first goal, it seemed that our confidence went down a bit and then they scored again quickly. We tried to push forward and get back in the game, but we ran out of time.”

On goal:

“It was a good pass from Ramiro (Corrales) and I am happy to score. But to score in a loss doesn’t mean anything. I want to score to help us win or get a tie on the road. Hopefully I can contribute more to the team in the next game.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD ARTURO ALVAREZ

On chances in first half:

“We moved the ball well in the first half and created a lot of dangerous situations. I was playing a bit underneath Wondo (Chris Wondolowski) and I had a lot of room, but we couldn’t put the ball in the net. It is on us as forwards to finish our chances and help us win games and we weren’t able to do it tonight.”

San Jose Earthquakes 0-0 CD Aguila

[Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release]

Earthquakes Play to a Scoreless Draw with C.D. Aguila

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Club Deportivo Aguila played to a 0-0 draw Tuesday night at Buck Shaw Stadium. Neither the Quakes nor the Salvadoran side could break through in a closely-contested match. For a recap of the match, go to sjearthquakes.com.

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Club Deportivo Aguila

September 8, 2009 – Buck Shaw Stadium

Attendance: 2,989

Scoring Summary: None

Misconduct Summary: CDA – Alison Batista (caution) 8; CDA – Francisco Jovel (caution) 41; CDA – William Alegria (caution) 44; SJ – Shea Salinas (caution) 46; SJ – Shea Salinas (ejection) 77.

San Jose Earthquakes: Andrew Weber, Jamil Roberts (Chris Leitch 46), Jason Hernandez, Fabio da Silva, Mike Zaher (Ismael Ibarra 83), Quincy Amarikwa (Shea Salinas 46), Andre Luiz (Bobby Convey 65), Antonio Ribeiro (Aaron Pitchkolan 80), Ramiro Corrales, Chris Wondolowski, Ryan Johnson.

Statistics:  Shots 16; Shots on Goal 6; Saves 2; Fouls 10; Offsides 1; Corner Kicks 5.

C.D. Aguila: Benji Villalobos, William Torres Cabrera, Hermes Martinez, Isaac Zelaya, Mauricio Perla (Ludwin Meraz 84), Arturo Albarran (Daniel Polio 90), Gilberto Murgas, Juan Lazo Cruz (Jose Eliseo Salamanca 73), William Alegria (Darwin Bonilla 74), Alison Batista (Nelson Reyes 46), Francisco Jovel (Jonathan Aguila 46).

Statistics:  Shots 7; Shots on Goal 2; Saves 6; Fouls 12; Offsides 7; Corner Kicks 3.

Quotes

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH FRANK YALLOP

ON THE RESULT

“I thought for us, being a man down, at least we kept a clean sheet. We should’ve finished our chances to score.  At least you’re creating chances, which is good in any game. I think overall we should have won the match. To not concede a goal after going down to 10 men was important.”

ON RYAN JOHNSON’S PERFORMANCE

“I thought he worked hard and had a good second half. Ryan’s just trying to get back in where he’s comfortable and using the ball well. I was pleased with Ryan’s effort tonight. He just needs to get his confidence back.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES GOALKEEPER ANDREW WEBER

ON HIS PLAY

“Obviously you have to be ready and you never know when your name is going to be called so It’s good to get games; it will only help me improve my game. I felt good, I felt organized. There were a few jitters, the field was a bit bouncy, but felt we handled it well.”

ON QUAKES CHANCES

“You definitely want your team to score. It is frustrating, but I keep my focus on my role, a defensive role, to keep the ball out of the net. You want to win, but at the same time, you got to turn back around and get ready to defend. Hopefully we get back and keep creating those chances in our next game.”

ON PACE OF GAME

“I thought they were very quick tonight. In and out, in and out, little touches. They are obviously a different team than what you see every day in training. They were very physical in the first half and we matched them in the second half.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CHRIS WONDOLOWSKI

ON THE RESULT

“It was great competitive 90 minutes, that’s what we can take away from it; we still have a lot of things we can build on. We worked out some things out there, we looked good, could have finished a couple of chances. We threw up a zero on defense and that’s always a positive.”

ON FACING C.D. AGUILA

“It’s definitely a different style. In the MLS there is a lot more athletic, direct play. Here, they understand the game, great technical ability and it was a good experience to see that and play against it.”

San Jose Earthquakes 0-3 Columbus Crew

Steven Lenhart was very hard to contain for Andre Luiz and the Quakes - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC

The atmosphere was strange to start a MLS game this afternoon at Candlestick Stadium. With an official number of 61,572 people, the San Jose Earthquakes were enjoying their best official attendance ever (the best attendance in the Bay Area since 1999 and the women's World Cup Semi Final between the USA and Brazil) yet, the game started in an almost empty stadium!

Despite of the 1906 Ultras and Casbah's efforts, Candelstick sounded like an empty shell.

However, the Quakes managed to start the game with enthusiasm, which was necessary to keep a chance to get something out of the battle awaiting them against the Eastern Conference leader. "It was difficult because they were playing a lot in the air, they were good at it and it hurt us" Andre Luiz said after the game.

In this very physical game, the Quakes matched their opponents during 69 minutes even though Jason Hernandez often needed the help of his arms contain the strong Steven Lenhart in the air.

They even had the best chances in the first half. In the 24th minute, Ryan johnson, at the reception of a long and high ball between the 2 Columbus' central defenders, managed to beautifully control the ball and passed it to Cornell Glen who seemed to have the goal open in front of him. A defender came back from nowhere to deflect Glen's shot in corner.

The game could also have turned either way just before half time when Glen again, had a chance. On the counter attack, Jason Garey responded to the Quakes' striker with no more success.

The second half started the same way. San Jose created a few good situations but always lacked creativity or precision to finish.

With a little more than 20 minutes to go, Lenhart headed the ball to Emmanuel Ekpo on the right. Ekpo had all the time to cross to the far post where Robbie Rogers, alone at the 6 yards, instead of pushing the ball towards the net with a chance to see Joe Cannon stopping it, crossed it back to the center. Alejandro Moreno between two defenders received the gift and headed it in the empty goal (1-0, 69’)

After conceding the first goal, the Quakes couldn't come back in the game and seemed to give up. “I think so. The spirit of the team changed”, Cornell Glen said when asked if the team gave up after the first goal. Andre Luiz was on the same page, saying that “we gave up a little bit" he said.

As a consequence, the second goal came quickly. Stopped by Hernandez, Robbie Rogers had lost possession of the ball when Chris Leitch, trying to clear the danger, kicked the ball into Hernandez' legs. Rogers was surprised and happy to recover possession of the ball and didn’t hesitate to beat Cannon (2-0, 73’)

Frank Yallop tried to add an extra offensive player when Amarikwa replaced Leitch, pushing Alvarez in a right-mid position while Salinas played right back. It didn't change anything and Columbus kept a total control over the last 20 minutes and eventually scored a third goal, Adam Moffat winning the ball in the air and beating Cannon after a corner kick taken from the right side by Gino Padula. The ball was deflected by Brandon McDonald's shoulder, which probably didn’t help the Quakes’ goalkeeper.

San Jose played 69 good minutes, but it is not enough against an experienced opponent. Individually, no one can be blamed particularly. Bobby Convey missed a lot of passes, Chris Leitch’s mistake caused the second goal, and, as Yallop said after the game the team as a whole "did ok, not particularly well but ok". A good display on the field but too many bad passes and lack of finish in front of a good team, actually the best team of the league.

More importantly, it is the general impression, confirmed by some of the players as mentioned above, of seeing the team giving up after the first goal that is worrying.

The Quakes have 10 games remaining in 2009, including 4 at home. This will be long and painful if they repeat this kind of results. Instead of giving up any ambition, it is more important than ever for San Jose to finish on a better note, at least at home. They will not win every game, but they need to be more consistent, even when things go wrong.

After telling us about the team giving up, Andre Luiz wanted to be positive: "We also showed in the first half that we are a good team and we have the ability to win" he said.

A positive attitude until the end of the season is the only way for San Jose to show the fans they were right to buy a season ticket and they should do it again next year. This is probably even more important than a playoff spot.

San Jose Earthquakes 1-0 Kansas City Wizards

Read Match Report below or Click Here for post-game video interviews

Ramiro Corrales cross in the stoppage time found Wondolowski winner header - Photo: Nap / TheProjectFC

The San Jose Earthquakes had to wait until the last minute of stoppage time to earn a deserved victory at home against Kansas City tonight.

The Wizards tried all the tricks they had in stock to waste time and commit multiple "smart" fouls (in front of Mr. Salazar who waited until late in the game before showing yellow cards) and beneficiated two controversial calls in the first 12 minutes of the game, which almost earned them the point they were looking for.

San Jose started very well, creating many clear chances and scoring two disallowed goals in the first 15 minutes. Both could have been allowed with a different interpretation of the rule. On both occasions, the victim was Cornell Glen.

After only 2 minutes, while Alvarez had already had a good shot on target saved by Kevin Hartman (Kansas City's goalkeeper), Glen thought he had given his team the lead. Winning a ball after Hartman bumped into his own defender (Jimmy Conrad), he pushed it in the empty goal. The referee called a slight movement of arm by Glen that may have pushed Conrad in the back, causing the collision with his goalkeeper. 

10 minutes later, after the 2 teams both had a great opportunity by Claudio Lopez for the Wizards (4') and Huckerby and Glen  for the Quakes (9'), both brilliantly saved by the keepers, Glen, again, alone between the last defender and the goalkeeper, received the ball from a Kansas City defender and beat Hartman. This time, it was disallowed for an offside position. The referee chose to call his position when the ball was headed by a Quakes' midfielder. However, he was not in a position to play this first ball and Mr. Salazar and his assistant could have decided that he only entered the play when the Wizards' defender, in a clearly deliberate move (and not just a deflection) tried to pass the ball to his keeper. In this case, there was no offside as the ball was passed to Glen by a player of the opposite team.

The first 15 minutes were intense and should have seen the Quakes take an early lead. It was actually the local team's best period in the game and, ironically they waited until the last minute to score a precious goal.

San Jose continued to dominate the first half but seemed to have lost a lot of energy and confidence. This was confirmed after the break. Some players seemed tired already and couldn't have the same impact they had in the first half. Glen even had to leave the field before half time, replaced by Quincy Amarikwa.

In spite of these difficulties and unlike 2 weeks ago against Columbus, San Jose never gave up and continued to threaten their opponent until the last minute. It finally paid in the 3^rd minute of stoppage time! Ramiro Corrales crossed from the left to Wondolowski at the near post. The Quakes' forward who had replaced Chris Leitch a few minutes earlier flicked the ball with the back of his head just enough to send it in the opposite side net, out of reach of Hartman (1-0, 90'+3)

This late goal deservedly rewarded a good performance by the Quakes, maybe the best of the season. The weakness of the opponent and the fact that San Jose didn't seem very confident defensively, especially in the second half, remind us that this team is still only trying to finish this terrible season on a better note, but today, they didn't let circumstances be an excuse for a bad result. They scored two goals that were disallowed and, instead of having to complain about it after the game, they fought and did what was necessary to score a valid one and this is already a great improvement!

San Jose Earthquakes 2-2 DC United

Yallop: "A Step In The Right Direction"

 
^{Cornell Glen celebrates with the Ultras after scoring the equalizing P.K. - Photo: TheProjectFC}

After a terrible first 30 minutes, including a questionable penalty against them after 2 minutes and a big defensive mistake 20 minutes later, The San Jose Earthquakes had a great reaction that we, honestly, wouldn't have predicted.

They managed to come back in the game right before half time and, "with the confidence back after the last 15 minutes of the first half" (Joe Cannon after the game), they played a very good second half to equalize with a little less than 30 minutes to go.

DC United seemed tired and had difficulties to finish the game, which gave the Quakes chances to even take the 3 points.

It is only one point at home in the end, but the performance showed by the Quakes in the second half is really encouraging, which allowed the head coach to say it was "a step in the right direction".

Now, it will be interresting to see if they can repeat this kind of effort 90 minutes long.

^{Ramon Sanchez' debut with the Quakes - Photo: TheProjectFC}

Ramon Sanchez didn't have a huge impact on the Quakes' performance but seems to be an interresting midfielder for the future of the team. Without touching the ball too much, he seemed to always know where he was positionned, always in the right place and was very confident in his game.

Post Game Interviews

Frank Yallop post-game press conference:

Joe Cannon:

Jason Hernandez (tonight's Quakes' captain)

Cornell Glen about taking the penalty:

San Jose Earthquakes 4-0 Seattle Sounders FC

- Match Report (below)      - Post-game video interviews       - Seattle fans arriving at Buck Shaw (Video)

Hernandez with the Heritage Cup - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC

A lucky own goal in the second minute and a generous red card to ex-Earthquake James Riley after 30 minutes helped the Quakes confirm their better form and win the Heritage Cup.

The confidence the team has acquired by signing Ramon Sanchez and Andre Luiz was obvious today and it made a huge difference. They still have the option to send long balls to Ryan Johnson when necessary, but they now also can keep the ball on the ground, pass it in the middle with confidence.

And confidence helps luck turning your way. It allows players to be aggressive without losing control, to defend efficiently, without panicking.

It was far from being perfect and today's scenario will not repeat every week but at least, the Quakes are back to a decent level and, playing this way, are able to compete with any MLS team.

The Quakes unexpectedly won the Heritage Cup after a convincing victory against one of the best teams in the league. Circumstances, so often against San Jose this season, favored them this time.

Everything started after less than 2 minutes, when Ryan johnson receiving the ball from Cornell Glen on the left side of the box, crossed it back to Glen with his left foot. Trying to intercept the pass Osvaldo Alonso deflected it...in his own goal (1-0, 2')

Very quickly, the Sounders seemed disorganized by this early goal and, taking advantage of it, the Quakes dominated the first 30 minutes, winning possession and creating a few good chances.

Two events, though, could have changed the run of the game. After 9 minutes, Andre Luiz who associated to Ramon Sanchez had already had time to show what he could bring to the Quakes' midfield in terms of stability, fell on his arm and left the field thinking he could not come back. He finally returned a few minutes later. "I jumped with Seattle's guy and when I fell, he fell on my arm." he said after the game. "The minutes that followed were difficult but I really wanted to continue playing."

Joe Cannon had an alert in te 25^th minute - Photos: Nap - TheProjectFC

The second event occurred in the 25^th minute. Joe Cannon, alone with the ball 15 yards from his goal and with more tie than needed to clear it, waited for Sebastien Letoux to come pressure him and tried to dribble Seattle's striker. Cannon walked on the ball and almost gave it to Letoux before being saved by the referee awarding him a generous free kick for an hypotetical Letoux' foul. (the first foul was probably committed by Cannon and it could as well have been a penalty for Seattle)

 
Riley tackles Convey and receives a red card - Photos: Nap - TheProjectFC

8 minutes later, the referee was going to help the local team again. For an angry but missed tackle on Bobby Convey (he didn't touch the player), Mr. Ward showed James Riley the red card. A yellow would probably have been more appropriate. Maybe he took this decision because he saw Riley, a few second earlier, pushing Cornell Glen in the back when the ball was out of reach for both players, but, more likely, he thought Riley hardly hit Convey's ankle, which was not the case.

After being unlucky with injuries and referees' calls most of the time so far this season, the Quakes were not going question the call and were happy with it. Actually, Freddy Montero's elbow in Darren huckerby's face 2 minutes later would have deserved a red card more than Riley's tackle.

It probably ruined Seattle's chances to win the game and helped the Quakes to win the game with a large score, giving them the Heritage Cup, but it also shows that when you play with confidence, when you hold the ball well and dominate your opponent, playing most of the time in their own half and even in their own 30 yards, you are more likely to get decisive calls in your favor.

Cornell Glen scored the second goal and created many chances - Photo: Nap - TheProjectFC

Seattle must be credited with a good start of the second half. Apparently better organized after the break, they managed to give the Quakes' defense a hard time. But, with only 10 players, it quickly became to difficult for the and Cornell Glen, after a good pass by Salinas from the right wing managed to eliminate Seattle's defender and shoot from outside the box. His left foot shot next to Kasey Keller's right post ended up in the back of the net (2-0, 54')

The game was over. Darren Huckerby (78') and Chris Wondolowski after a beautiful move and a great pass by Shea Salinas (84') finished the job and the Quakes could enjoy the three points while their captain, Jason Hernandez, was receiving the Heritage Cup from Seattle and San Jose's supporters' representants.

The trophy rewards the better team amongst all MLS teams named after their NASL predecessors. Until the Portland Timbers (2010) and the Vancouver Whitecaps (2011) join MLS, only Seattle and San Jose qualify for the competition.

On Saturday, the San Jose Earthquakes have earned 3 points and a trophy and, more importantly, hope to finish the season on a good note and build a strong team for next year. 

San Jose Earthquakes 6-0 El Sueño de tu Vida All-Stars

[Official San Jose Earthquakes Press Release]

Earthquakes Take 6-0 Victory Against El Sueño de Tu Vida All-Stars

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes beat El Sueño de tu Vida All-Stars 6-0 on Friday night at PAL Stadium. The Quakes got three goals in each half to put away the local all-stars. Antonio Ribeiro and guest player Ismael Ibarra both scored a pair of goals, while Quincy Amarikwa and Simon Elliott added a goal each. Andrew Weber and Mike Graczyk combined to post the shutout.

The Quakes applied plenty of early pressure, as Ryan Johnson had a chance in the fifth minute and his effort was thwarted by goalkeeper Mario Obeso. Johnson had another quality opportunity three minutes later, as his full volley effort from just inside the area flew inches wide.

San Jose kept the pressure on, and the chances kept piling up, until they finally broke through in the 24th minute as Shea Salinas picked out Amarikwa at the back post and his diving header left Obeso with no chance.

Salinas figured in the Quakes’ second goal after service from Mike Zaher found him at the back post and his pass picked out Elliott at the penalty spot. Elliott he slotted it home in the 34th minute to double San Jose’s lead.

Ribeiro scored on a full volley in the 38th minute of play after a nice Chris Wondolowski cross found Johnson, and his header fell to Ribeiro who blasted in his first in a San Jose uniform.

San Jose opened the second half like they finished the first, attacking in waves. Second half substitute Darren Huckerby served a cross in that picked out Johnson, whose header flicked just wide of the target. Minutes later

Ribeiro found the net again, this time on a corner kick, as Huckerby’s inswinger found Johnson, and it fell right to Ribeiro to make it 4-0.  

Guest player Ismael Ibarra added the fifth as he chipped the goalkeeper in the 57th minute after a nice long ball from Amarikwa. He tallied his second with three minutes remaining, as Ribeiro’s pass found him for a tap-in.

San Jose hosts Salvadoran side C.D. Aguila on Tuesday, Sept. 8 at Buck Shaw Stadium in another friendly. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. PT.

San Jose Earthquakes vs. El Sueño de tu Vida

Sept.  4, 2009 – PAL Stadium

Attendance: 2,200

Scoring Summary: SJ – Quincy Amarikwa (Shea Salinas) 24; SJ - Simon Elliott (Shea Salinas, Mike Zaher) 34; SJ - Antonio Ribeiro (Ryan Johnson, Chris Wondolowski) 38; SJ - Antonio Ribeiro (Ryan Johnson, Darren Huckerby) 44; SJ - Ismael Ibarra (Quincy Amarikwa) 57; SJ - Ismael Ibarra (Antonio Ribeiro) 77.

Misconduct Summary:  None

San Jose Earthquakes – Andrew Weber (Mike Graczyk 41), Jamil Roberts, Aaron Pitchkolan, Fabio da Silva, Mike Zaher, Shea Salinas (Ismael Ibarra 57), Simon Elliott (Darren Huckerby 41), Antonio Ribeiro, Quincy Amarikwa, Ryan Johnson, Chris Wondolowski.

Statistics:  Shots 18; Shots on Goal 12; Saves 0; Fouls 9; Offsides 2; Corner Kicks 3.

El Sueno de tu Vida: -- Mario Obeso (David Silva 57), Raul Stavoli, Gustavo Silva (Bryan Marin 41), Julio Cesar Madrigal, Eric Cortez, William Paredes (Raymundo Arzate 57), Jose Aguirre (Francisco Heredia 41), Andres Ponce (James Ortiz 57), Brayeen Casteneda, Javier Martin (Alfredo Gonzales 23), Jorge Carmona.

Statistics:  Shots 3; Shots on Goal 0; Saves 6; Fouls 4; Offsides 1; Corner Kicks 1.

San Jose Earthquakes Confirm Andre Luiz Signing

^{Andre Luiz, here with his last club, Jaguares - Photo: www.daylife.com}

It is now official! The San jose Earthquakes' website confirms (here) what we announced last Sunday (read here): the signing of Andre Luiz Moreira (who goes by as Andre Luiz)

The article doesn't say if the international Brazilian midfielder, who started his carreer as a defender, will play tomorrow against the Seattle Sounders.

The official annoucement of his signing probably means that he has received his International Transfer Certificate, however, he is not (yet?) listed on the roster published on tomorrow's game official guide.

What happened?

A look at the reasons that lead the Quakes to their current situation.

^{Nick Garcia and Toronto send the Quakes to hell. A symbol of the club's questionable choices this year. Photo: TheProjectFC}

Last October 25, 2008, after the last game of the season at home against Toronto, the atmosphere at Buck Shaw was a mix of satisfaction and hope (read here). The San Jose Earthquakes had not qualified for the playoffs, but the latest performances of the team had been encouraging and even impressive on occasions for an expansion team.

The signings of Arturo Alvarez, Scott Sealy, Lima and San Jose's new hero Darren Huckerby in the second half of the season had turned an average expansion team to a competitive one. They just arrived a little too late to catch up with the playoff contenders but the fans could proudly sing without a doubt "We don't suck anymore!"

Last Saturday, against the same opponent, the Quakes lost heavily (1-3 - Match report here) and probably played one of the worst games of their history.

Back in October, building on last season's momentum, the management was going to keep working in the same direction, just looking to reinforce some positions in the roster.

Actually, before the end of last season, Frank Yallop and John Doyle already knew it was not going to be so easy. Lima and Sealy had already announced they were going to Europe during the off-season to try to find a better contract. They never came back.

Even though Frank Yallop had a high regard for Lima, these two players were not irreplaceable. Losing 2 players in the inter season is not unusual and it is something the Quakes should have survived.

Ronnie O'Brien refuses the new Quakes' offer

Less usual is what happened with 2 other important players, Joe Cannon and Ronnie O'Brien. The club decided not to renew their contracts at the same conditions. If Joe Cannon finally decided to accept a lower salary because of his attachment to the Bay Area, Ronnie O'Brien, furious to learn the club's decision so late (just a few days before the team started training again), decided to refuse the new Quakes' offer.

By telling O'Brien about their decision so late, San Jose probably thought he wouldn't be in a position to refuse, not having looked for another club in the inter season. It came back into the face of the management as a boomerang: it was now late to find a replacement player of equivalent level and, so far this year, it is still Arturo Alvarez who plays in O'Brien's position on the right wing, not being able to cross with his right foot. Alvarez is not having a bad season personally, but it is interesting to notice that the only times he is dangerous are when he leaves his position and comes into the box from the left or the center...

Then, bad luck combined with hazardous signings made the pre-season fail.

Ari Riihilahti, would probably have been a perfect replacement for Lima. Unfortunately, the Finland international midfielder failed the physical tests. This was the beginning of a long series of unfortunate events.

Starting a season with 2 central defenders you don't believe in is not ideal

Jason Hernandez, the best Quakes' defender last year got injured during a camp with the National team. He missed the first weeks of competition. At the same time, Ryan Cochrane had an ankle surgery and has not recovered yet!

Nick Garcia and Kelly Gray started the season as central defenders. We now know that none of them really were in Yallop's plans. We actually knew it before: Kelly Gray was clearly only a substitute in the head coach's mind already the year before and not renewing Garcia as the team captain was obviously a sign that Yallop wasn't sure he would play the whole season. Starting a season with two central defenders you don't believe in is not ideal...Not mentioning that left back, Eric Denton, was also only a default choice for the coach!

Here comes another question: Why couldn't the Earthquakes find replacement players earlier in the season? Is San Jose so unattractive for a soccer player? Are the salaries offered by the club to low? Or couldn't they decide which players to target and to sign?

The defense was not the weakest line of the team though. Yes, Gray and Garcia made some mistakes, but it is not surprising when your team is not able to hold possession and the ball is constantly coming back to the opposition's forward. Having to defend twice as many plays as a team which would be able to hold the ball, you necessarily make more mistakes.

2 young forwards with similar profile as Ryan Johnson

There we can question the choice of the second forward. Ryan Johnson being obviously the number one, the club needed to find someone to replace Sealy. Clearly, the team couldn't or didn't want to spend too much on a forward and naturally looked at young talents. This is absolutely respectable but there is a question which is still unanswered: Why choose 2 young forwards who have a similar profile as Johnson? Cam Weaver and Pablo Campos (who have both left the club already! Read Here) are not bad players. They both are good target men, but Ryan Johnson is doing this job better than them!

Quincy Amarikwa had a more interesting profile to combine with Johnson but he is not experienced enough to be more than a sub. The recent signing of Cornell Glen could be a good solution, but it is already too late.

This casting up front, combined with the choice of two exclusively defensive central midfielders, resulted in the team playing the whole first half of the season with sending long balls to Johnson and Weaver (or Campos) as their only weapon (reason why the ball was quickly coming back as mentioned above)

Bad luck strikes again

Then, bad luck stroke again: last year's savior, Darren Huckerby got injured after only 4 games. I am honestly unsure the ex Norwich City midfielder's presence on the field during the first months of competition would have dramatically changed things. His experience and above average skills would have helped for sure, but he probably couldn't have changed everything on his own as he did last year. He's back now and wasn't the worst Quake last Saturday against Toronto. We'll see in the next few weeks if he can do miracles again.

Another thing that Yallop and Doyle couldn't imagine is the disappointing performances of Bobby Convey. He is a good player and will probably be precious to stabilize the midfield, but no one could have imagined it would take him so long to adapt to MLS. He is currently on the injury list as well, delaying his adaptation. And this maybe the key.

Without Convey at a decent level and with Corrales playing left back (and now injured as well), Yallop's midfield organization is ruined. Elliott and McDonald who were the 2 center midfielders last Saturday are physically impressive but when it comes to move forward and bring additional solutions in the offensive phases, they are both technically too limited. Again, in a way, their profiles are too similar to another to make them a good match.

After Saturday's game, Yallop will need to try something different and, unless new signings are announced before the end of the week, Antonio Ribeiro, who seems to have less physical strength but more technical skills, may have a chance to prove he can bring something interesting.

Between injuries and wrong choices, it is not easy to tell which factor had the worst consequences on the team's performances. Let's say that with clever (and/or quicker) decisions in the inter season, the Earthquakes would have had less difficulties to face injuries and today, wouldn't be trading players who were considered as key members of the team 4 months ago.

San Jose needs to remain attractive for future players

The San Jose Earthquakes will not make the playoffs in 2009. However, it is important to finish the season on a (much) better note, and give a better image. It is important for the fans and the attendance at Buck Shaw, but not only. San Jose also needs to look attractive to have a chance to sign good players in the future.

They will need to find new objectives to show that they haven't given up and give the fans some reasons to hope for better days next year. There is no relegation in this league. This looks like good news when your team is in the next to last position, but it makes it difficult for a coach to keep the players 100% involved. Avoiding finishing in the last position at all cost should be an objective. Finishing ahead of the Galaxy would be a higher one. More difficult, but not impossible. It would be very appreciated by the fans.

For now, Frank Yallop is facing another big issue. Last Saturday, he lost Aaron Pitchkolan in the dramatic conditions described here. Mike Zaher has not been very good defensively last Saturday, and Ramiro Corrales is injured. With Ryan Cochrane injured as well, the only defender remaining is Jamil Roberts. He has not played a lot in 1 ¹/₂ seasons with the Quakes, but he is still on the roster and may have the opportunity to prove he deserves more than just a few minutes each year.

Ironically, Nick Garcia (who is now happy at Toronto - view video interview here), Kelly Gray and Eric Denton (both released recently by the club) could have been useful...

However, good news is some spots have been made available for new players. New signings should be announced soon. This time, the casting needs to be successful!

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