Real Time

Caught MLS Opening Day in Salt Lake this Saturday, where the Real made a strong showing. Well, at least until the final 30 seconds of injury time, when they gave up a clumsy shot by FC Dallas' Carlos Ruiz. Still, the game ended in a tie, and the team displayed some much welcome confidence and skill on the field, both on offense and D. The addition of Freddy Adu also seems to have added a spark to the team, and Adu's control of the ball was fun to watch, especially in light of the injury he sustained early in the match. Jeff Cunningham, perhaps the most underestimated forward in MLS, sunk two into the nets. I'm thinking the Cunningham-Adu combo has potential to be the most devastating scoring machine in MLS this year, but it may take a few more games for their communication skills to click.

The SL crowd, enthusiastic and knowledgable throughout the match, fell dead silent after the final goal. Not many hung around to cheer the team to the lockers. It was an unfortunate end to a promising season opener for SL Real. My own enthusiasm for the team was renewed, however, and I hold hope that they make a better showing this season than last year's dismal 10-13-9 standings.

The Beckham-enhanced (?) LA Galaxy won't make a SL appearance until September, but I'm already thinking I'll need to make a few more trips north this summer to catch some live action. The Real were shooting out sparks on Saturday; I'm hoping that mo'fo will ignite.

This is officially the manliest entry I have ever made on this blog. Booya!