Steven Sandor's Blog, page 67

Clarke vs. Clarke: Carolina coach fumes as Edmonton goes to the top of the table

Maybe the Carolina RailHawks need to hire a shaman. Maybe someone at the club has wronged a Canadian in the past, and to fix it they’ll need to have Drew Beckie sing William Shatner quotes to the tunes of Rush songs.

Canada — and especially Edmonton’s Clarke Field — continues to be a place where the RailHawks go on point-less road trips. With 1-0’s loss to the Eddies on Sunday, Carolina finished a two-game winless road swing through Edmonton and Ottawa. The RailHawks still have never won a game at Clarke Field.

And Sunday’s loss may have been the most painful one of all. The RailHawks could very well have been up by two goals inside the first 15 minutes — but didn’t convert on either of two gift-wrapped chances. After a scramble in the penalty area, Jonathon Orlando got the ball at his feet, but Eddies’ keeper Matt VanOekel smothered the chance. And, after being left wide open in the box, Mexican star Omar Bravo headed the ball just to the wrong side of the post.

The game was decided in the 66th minute when RailHawks’ defender Simon Mensing slid and missed his interception attempt on a through ball that sent Eddies’ forward Tomi Ameobi on a break. He squared the ball for Jake Keegan to ram home into an open goal.

But, RailHawks coach Colin Clarke wasn’t only disappointed with the missed chances; he was fuming over the performance of Canadian referee Pierre-Luc Lauziere.

“It’s the same way whenever we come to Canada,” Clarke fumed. He was furious that Lauziere did not award the RailHawks a late penalty kick after what the Carolina coach felt was a foul by FCE defender Albert Watson on Matt Fondy. He also was angered that Pape Diakite, the other Eddies central defender, was not carded for a series of what the coach felt were unfair, rough challenges in the first half. In the end, Lauziere handed out three yellow cards to the RailHawks, while the Eddies received none.

Carolina’s Omar Bravo is challenged by FCE’s Nik Ledgerwood. PHOTO: TONY LEWIS/FC EDMONTON

Clarke’s meaning was clear; that the Canadian refs favour the Canadian teams. In NASL, PRO the referee organization that also administers games in MLS and USL, assigns refs for all games on American soil. But, the Canadian Soccer Association is in charge of refereeing assignments for NASL games in Ottawa and Edmonton.

With the win, the Eddies tie the New York Cosmos atop the fall season standings, but the Eddies have a game in hand. The Eddies are also in second in the overall standings, just a point behind the Cosmos — again, that game in hand also comes into play.

“The team talk was let’s look up the way, let’s not look roundabout us, who can win this one, who can win that one,” said Eddies coach Colin Miller. “Let’s look after ourselves and look up the way. If the Cosmos are the team to catch overall, if Indy are the team to catch overall, then let’s look to chase them. Let’s look to see if we can catch them and finish them above them.

“And that’s the mindset. I don’t think we’ve been given enough recognition on how well the club has done this season. This is no fluke. You don’t get to be where we are at the moment by playing poorly, by not doing the right things. Sure, our goalkeeper has kept us in some of the games, but that’s his job. But today was a very workmanlike, professional performance, no panic and everyone committed to the cause.”

“Our foundation is defence,” said Keegan. “When we don’t have a lot of pressure to score goals, it makes it easier for us.”

The Eddies have not given up two goals in a game since May. They have won eight in a row at home.

“We have a lot of older guys, lots of experience on the team, lots of guys who know how to win,” said Keegan.

With just a few minutes left, Canadian Ben Fisk made his Eddies debut, and his effort forced his former Whitecaps Residency teammate Brian Sylvestre into an excellent save. As the Eddies pressed for a second, Sylvestre also made excellent stops on efforts from Ameobi and Gustavo Salgueiro.

Argentina’s Di Biase comes from Bolivian League to FC Edmonton

The Eddies are set to fill their open international roster spot, as Argentine midfielder Nicolas Di Biase trained with the team Friday.

The move for Di Biase, who was previously with Bolivia’s Club Blooming, comes on the heels of moves for Canadian midfielder Ben Fisk and Portuguese/American fullback Pedro Galvao.

“He has a consistency in possession of the ball, he’s an experienced player,” said Eddies coach Colin Miller about Di Biase. “I think he’s going to be a very good signing for the Eddies.”

Because Di Biase is used to playing in the extreme altitudes of Bolivia, Miller believes that his fitness level will be very high.

“It took a little while for the deal to go over the line, but he was very keen to join us,” said Miller. “He was very keen to move to North America, to see what this was about. And, from his videos, he plays it, wins it, he’ll tackle his granny to win, which is Colin Miller’s traits, isn’t it?”

Di Biase will play is a left-sided central midfielder, which Miller says “gives balance to the team.” In fact, with Adam Eckersley, Galvao, Dustin Corea and Johann Smith already on the team, the Eddies have more true left-footed options than most NASL clubs.

Midfielder Cristian Raudales and Marko Aleksic, who had been out with long-term injury issues, trained with the team on Friday.

“Marko has probably been the unluckiest player in the club,” said Miller. “The kid has done so, so well in training and then, all of a sudden, he gets almost an opportunity, and then he picks up another injury.

“The kid’s giving competition for places. He’s ready to play.”

And, while the Eddies are getting players back in the lineup, the Carolina RailHawks, thanks to injuries and visa issues, are putting together a squad with Band Aids. A very thin RailHawks side — without Mexican star Omar Bravo, who at this moment can’t legally work in Canada — lost to Ottawa Wednesday. The RailHawks are hoping to have Bravo’s paperwork done in time for Sunday’s game at Clarke Field.

Even though Carolina coach Colin Clarke shares a name with Edmonton’s stadium, it has been his most unhappy place in the NASL. The RailHawks still have not won a game at Clarke Field. Ever.

But Miller believes Carolina was a lot better than the scoreline showed on Wednesday.

“I watched them against Ottawa… I thought they were better than Ottawa. I thought they passed the ball better, there was more movement. And they are a dangerous team. They’re missing a few players at the moment. I don’t know if Bravo can travel, they’re still waiting for the travel papers to come through, but he’s a terrific player. He’s a great signing for the league.”

 

Eddies snatch seventh home win in a row after comeback over Cosmos

FC Edmonton keeper Matt VanOekel makes a catch.

If the Eddies are indeed putting together a special sort of season, they may look back on Wednesday’s 2-1 win at home over the New York Cosmos as the day they went from “the team that’s on a hot streak” to a “team that’s a genuine contender for a Soccer Bowl.”

“I think other teams are starting to realize that now,” said striker Tomi Ameobi. “And, of course that raises the stakes for us, it puts more pressure on us going into games. But I think the lads can handle the pressure extremely well.”

Two late goals — both coming on rebounds from Ameobi’s shots — allowed the Eddies to turn around a game that they could very well been out of at halftime. Nik Ledgerwood got the equalizer, turning home a chance after Ameobi’s initial chance struck the post; and Daryl Fordyce got the late winner after Cosmos goalie Jimmy Maurer made a diving stop on Ameobi but could do nothing about the rebound.

But, the Cosmos could have buried the Eddies early. Juan Arango gave the Cosmos the lead after the Eddies defence parted after two clever passes from Yasmani Duk and Yohandry Orozco.

The Cosmos could have had more. Twice, Sebastian Guenzatti was absolutely robbed by Eddies keeper Matt VanOekel, who referred to his day’s work as a “fun day at the office.” On the first Guenzatti’s shot was deflected by Eddies fullback Shawn Nicklaw, MVO had to dive almost backwards in order to get enough of his hand on the ball to deflect it off the post. Then, late in the half, Guenzatti skipped through a couple of Eddies defenders, and then slammed a shot that VanOekel sprawled to save.

“Absolute rubbish,” Miller said at halftime.

“The Cosmos gave 18 players on the field, seven of them wearing blue jerseys.”

Whatever Miller said in the dressing room, you hope that he’s recorded for future use — because it was an entirely different Eddies team that came out in the second half.

Ameobi, who came on as a first-half sub for the injured Sainey Nyassi, created the Eddies’ first great chance when he backheeled a ball into Shamit Shome’s path. But the teenager’s shot was saved by Maurer.

Shome thought he had his first NASL goal just after the hour mark. But his headed effort was correctly waved off for offside.

But, as the second half went on, the game’s pace only quickened. The Cosmos then got a great chance to make it 2-0. After a Ledgerwood giveaway, Duk was on a clear breakaway that began inside his own half. He got into the box and decided to try and round VanOekel. The keeper came out and challenged; if he got it wrong, it would be a penalty kick and a red card. Instead, he got it just right, kicking the ball away from Duk’s feet.

“I think Matt’s been pretty well our man of the match every game of the season,” said Ameobi. “He’s put in the work in the offseason and he’s reaping the rewards for it.”

And the next time the Eddies came down the field, they equalized. Ameobi’s shot went off the post, but came right into the middle of the penalty area for Ledgerwood to pound in.

The Cosmos then had a wonderful chance to take the lead. Sub Lucky Mkosana chested a ball down in the box and had what he thought was an open net. But Nicklaw scrambled back to the goal line and, well, Mkosana’s shot hit him and caromed out of danger.

But there was still more drama. Ledgerwood forced Maurer into a diving save before Ameobi took the ball up the field late in the game. His shot forced Maurer into a save, but Fordyce had an open net and finished the chance easily.

Cosmos coach Giovanni Saverese said his team’s poor finishing was to blame.

“I don’t believe in luck. It’s about execution. We didn’t execute.”

Eddies fullback Pedro Galvao made his debut as a second-half sub. Canadian Ben Fisk is still waiting for paperwork from the Spanish FA before he is eligible to join the Eddies.

Eddies snatch seventh home win in a row after comeback over Cosmos

If the Eddies are indeed putting together a special sort of season, they may look back on Wednesday’s 2-1 win at home over the New York Cosmos as the day they went from “the team that’s on a hot streak” to a “team that’s a genuine contender for a Soccer Bowl.”

“I think other teams are starting to realize that now,” said striker Tomi Ameobi. “And, of course that raises the stakes for us, it puts more pressure on us going into games. But I think the lads can handle the pressure extremely well.”

Two late goals — both coming on rebounds from Ameobi’s shots — allowed the Eddies to turn around a game that they could very well been out of at halftime. Nik Ledgerwood got the equalizer, turning home a chance after Ameobi’s initial chance struck the post; and Daryl Fordyce got the late winner after Cosmos goalie Jimmy Maurer made a diving stop on Ameobi but could do nothing about the rebound.

But, the Cosmos could have buried the Eddies early. Juan Arango gave the Cosmos the lead after the Eddies defence parted after two clever passes from Yasmani Duk and Yohandry Orozco.

The Cosmos could have had more. Twice, Sebastian Guenzatti was absolutely robbed by Eddies keeper Matt VanOekel, who referred to his day’s work as a “fun day at the office.” On the first Guenzatti’s shot was deflected by Eddies fullback Shawn Nicklaw, MVO had to dive almost backwards in order to get enough of his hand on the ball to deflect it off the post. Then, late in the half, Guenzatti skipped through a couple of Eddies defenders, and then slammed a shot that VanOekel sprawled to save.

“Absolute rubbish,” Miller said at halftime.

“The Cosmos gave 18 players on the field, seven of them wearing blue jerseys.”

Whatever Miller said in the dressing room, you hope that he’s recorded for future use — because it was an entirely different Eddies team that came out in the second half.

Ameobi, who came on as a first-half sub for the injured Sainey Nyassi, created the Eddies’ first great chance when he backheeled a ball into Shamit Shome’s path. But the teenager’s shot was saved by Maurer.

Shome thought he had his first NASL goal just after the hour mark. But his headed effort was correctly waved off for offside.

But, as the second half went on, the game’s pace only quickened. The Cosmos then got a great chance to make it 2-0. After a Ledgerwood giveaway, Duk was on a clear breakaway that began inside his own half. He got into the box and decided to try and round VanOekel. The keeper came out and challenged; if he got it wrong, it would be a penalty kick and a red card. Instead, he got it just right, kicking the ball away from Duk’s feet.

“I think Matt’s been pretty well our man of the match every game of the season,” said Ameobi. “He’s put in the work in the offseason and he’s reaping the rewards for it.”

And the next time the Eddies came down the field, they equalized. Ameobi’s shot went off the post, but came right into the middle of the penalty area for Ledgerwood to pound in.

The Cosmos then had a wonderful chance to take the lead. Sub Lucky Mkosana chested a ball down in the box and had what he thought was an open net. But Nicklaw scrambled back to the goal line and, well, Mkosana’s shot hit him and caromed out of danger.

But there was still more drama. Ledgerwood forced Maurer into a diving save before Ameobi took the ball up the field late in the game. His shot forced Maurer into a save, but Fordyce had an open net and finished the chance easily.

Cosmos coach Giovanni Saverese said his team’s poor finishing was to blame.

“I don’t believe in luck. It’s about execution. We didn’t execute.”

Fisk and Galvao need patience: FC Edmonton waiting on Spanish, Portuguese federations to sign off on deals

Pedro Galvao

Canadian Ben Fisk has been training with FC Edmonton since last week. Portuguese/American midfielder/fullback Pedro Galvao trained with the Eddies on Tuesday.

But, as it stands, neither are eligible to play in Wednesday’s game against the New York Cosmos. The Eddies have completed the paperwork when it comes to signing these two players, and the Canadian Soccer Association has done its part. But the Eddies need the Spanish FA to sign off on Fisk — who most recently played in Spain — and the Portuguese federation to green-light Galvao’s move.

Galvao was most recently with Portuguese side Gil Vicente.

“The CSA has been fabulous with us, they always are” said FCE coach Colin Miller. “It’s now out of our club’s hands and the CSA’s hands — it’s now dealing with the Spanish federation and the Portuguese federation.”

In fact, Fisk made the trip to Indiana with the Eddies this past weekend, as the team was hopeful his clearance would have been in ahead of Saturday’s game against the Eleven. But, that didn’t happen — and they are still waiting.



Because he was born in the United States, Galvao does not take up an international roster spot.

“He’s played most of his career in the Portuguese second division,” said Miller. “Attacking wide left midfield player, can also play at left fullback. He’s already shown very good technique, pace and strength. He’s a good professional. So, I’m delighted that we finally got Pedro in.”

Miller said that he understands that, as the international transfer window is open, that both the Spanish and Portuguese federations’ offices are overwhelmed with paperwork requests. But a player cannot be cleared to play in another country until the national federation that governs his previous club team signs off. So, even though Fisk is Canadian, he can’t go until the Spanish FA gives the thumbs-up.

The Eddies’ open international spot should be filled later this week. Miller said an Argentine/Italian midfielder is expected to arrive Wednesday.

“We hope he’ll be one of the final pieces of the jigsaw,” said Miller.

Fisk and Galvao need patience: FC Edmonton waiting on Spanish, Portuguese federations to sign off on deals

Canadian Ben Fisk has been training with FC Edmonton since last week. Portuguese/American midfielder/fullback Pedro Galvao trained with the Eddies on Tuesday.

But, as it stands, neither are eligible to play in Wednesday’s game against the New York Cosmos. The Eddies have completed the paperwork when it comes to signing these two players, and the Canadian Soccer Association has done its part. But the Eddies need the Spanish FA to sign off on Fisk — who most recently played in Spain — and the Portuguese federation to green-light Galvao’s move.

Galvao was most recently with Portuguese side Gil Vicente.

“The CSA has been fabulous with us, they always are” said FCE coach Colin Miller. “It’s now out of our club’s hands and the CSA’s hands — it’s now dealing with the Spanish federation and the Portuguese federation.”

In fact, Fisk made the trip to Indiana with the Eddies this past weekend, as the team was hopeful his clearance would have been in ahead of Saturday’s game against the Eleven. But, that didn’t happen — and they are still waiting.

Because he was born in the United States, Galvao does not take up an international roster spot.

“He’s played most of his career in the Portuguese second division,” said Miller. “Attacking wide left midfield player, can also play at left fullback. He’s already shown very good technique, pace and strength. He’s a good professional. So, I’m delighted that we finally got Pedro in.”

Miller said that he understands that, as the international transfer window is open, that both the Spanish and Portuguese federations’ offices are overwhelmed with paperwork requests. But a player cannot be cleared to play in another country until the national federation that governs his previous club team signs off on the deal. So, even though Fisk is Canadian, he can’t go until the Spanish FA gives the thumbs-up.

The Eddies’ open international spot should be filled later this week. Miller said an Argentine/Italian midfielder is expected to arrive Wednesday.

“We hope he’ll be one of the final pieces of the jigsaw,” said Miller.

Overwhelmingly Canadian Power Rankings MLS Week 20/NASL Week 15/USL Week 18

Julian de Guzman

In Saturday’s win in Jacksonville’s 40-plus C heat (with the humidity), the Ottawa Fury gave 464 of a possible 990 minutes playing time to Canadians. Canadian Carl Haworth scored the second goal of the game in a 2-0 win. And, with that, Ottawa not only leads all NASL and MLS teams in terms of giving minutes to Canadians, the Fury can boast that an average of over 300 minutes per game goes to players from this country.

That achievement highlights our rankings of the minutes played by Canadians in North America’s major pro leagues.

Other achievements of note:

Tosaint Ricketts made his first MLS appearance, coming in as a sub in Toronto FC’s 4-1 win over D.C. United.

And, David Edgar made his first appearance as a Vancouver Whitecaps in last week’s midweek friendly against Crystal Palace. But, on Sunday, we was with the USL’s WFC2 squad, where he played 90 minutes.

HERE ARE THE RANKINGS:



MLS AND NASL MINUTES BY PLAYER, THE CANADIANS

1. Cyle Larin, Orlando City, MLS, 1329 (18)

2. Will Johnson, Toronto FC, MLS, 1237 (15)

3. Jonathan Osorio, Toronto FC, MLS, 1214 (16)

4. Eddie Edward, FC Edmonton/Ottawa, NASL, 1159 (13)

5. Mason Trafford, Miami FC, NASL, 1147 (13)

6. Nik Ledgerwood, FC Edmonton, NASL, 1104 (13)

7. Tesho Akindele, FC Dallas, MLS, 1064 (21)

8. Fraser Aird, Vancouver, MLS, 1014 (12)

9. Carl Haworth, Ottawa, NASL, 986 (12)

10. Drew Beckie, Carolina, NASL, 949 (12)

11. Karl Ouimette, NYRB, MLS/Jacksonville, NASL 929 (11)

12. Kyle Bekker, Montreal, MLS, 917 (14)

13. Wandrille Lefevre, Montreal, MLS, 855 (10)

14. Kyle Porter, Ottawa, NASL, 731 (10)

15. Nana Attakora, Fort Lauderdale, NASL, 725 (9)

16. Patrice Bernier, Montreal, MLS, 701 (13)

17. Maxim Tissot, Montreal, MLS/Ottawa, NASL, 697 (9)

18. Shamit Shome, FC Edmonton, NASL, 656 (10)

19. Julian de Guzman, Ottawa, NASL, 593 (9)

20. Jordan Hamilton, Toronto FC, MLS, 601 (8)

21. Mo Babouli, Toronto FC, MLS, 567 (14)

22. Marcel De Jong, Ottawa, NASL/Vancouver, MLS, 519 (7)

23. Mallan Roberts, FC Edmonton/Ottawa, NASL, 506 (7)

24. Jay Chapman, Toronto FC, 457 (12)

25. Russell Teibert, Vancouver, MLS, 447 (7)

26. Allan Zebie, FC Edmonton, NASL, 403 (9)

27. Mauro Eustaquio, Ottawa, NASL, 268 (7)

28. Marcel DeBellis, Ottawa, NASL, 171 (2)

29. Kianz Froese, Vancouver, MLS, 150 (5)

30. Sam Adekugbe, Vancouver, MLS, 111 (2)

31. Ashtone Morgan, Toronto FC, MLS, 96 (5)

32. Anthony Jackson-Hamel, Montreal, MLS, 68 (4)

33. Mozzi Gyorio, Ottawa, NASL, 65 (2)

34. Marco Bustos, Vancouver, MLS, 50 (2)

35. Tosaint Ricketts, Toronto FC, MLS, 19 (1)

36. Alphonso Davies, Vancouver, MLS, 13 (1)

37. Raheem Edwards, Toronto FC, 2 (1)

TEAM RANKINGS, MINUTES PLAYED BY CANADIANS IN 2016, RANKED BY AVERAGE MINUTES PER GAME:

Ottawa, NASL, 4203/14 (300.2)

FC Edmonton, NASL, 3114/14 (222.4)

Toronto FC, MLS, 4194/20 (209.7)

Montreal, MLS, 3038/20 (151.9)

Vancouver, MLS, 1809/22 (82.2)

Miami FC, NASL, 1147/14 (81.9)

Orlando City, MLS, 1329/19 (69.9)

Carolina, NASL, 949/14 (67.8)

Fort Lauderdale, NASL, 725/15 (48.3)

FC Dallas, MLS, 1064//23 (46.3)

New York Red Bulls, MLS, 582/22 (26.5)

Jacksonville, NASL, 347/15 (23.1)

USL MINUTES BY PLAYER, THE CANADIANS

1. Janouk Charbonneau, FC Montreal, USL, 1606 (18)

2. Skylar Thomas, TFC II, USL, 1485 (18)

3. Brett Levis, WFC2, USL, 1370 (17)

4. Daniel Haber, WFC2, USL, 1364 (19)

5. Louis Beland-Goyette, FC Montreal, USL, 1351 (16)

6. Anthony Osorio, TFC II, USL, 1312 (16)

7. Shaan Hundal, TFC II, USL, 1268 (20)

T8. Maxime Crepeau, FC Montreal, USL, 1260 (14)

T8. John Smits, Wilmington, USL, 1260 (14)

10. Thomas Meilleur-Giguere, FC Montreal, USL, 1236 (14)

11. Dominic Samuel, Rochester, USL, 1214 (16)

12. Ryan James, Rochester, USL, 1211 (17)

13. Chris Mannella, TFC II, USL, 1186 (17)

14. Aidan Daniels, TFC II, USL, 1182 (19)

15. Aron Mkungilwa, FC Montreal, USL, 1158 (14)

16. Tyler Pasher, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 1155 (14)

17. Liam Fraser, TFC II, USL, 1151 (17)

18. Michael Cox, Orlando City B, USL, 1131 (17)

19. Richie Laryea, Orlando City B, USL, 1125 (17)

20. Amer Didic, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 1117 (17)

21. Ballou Jean Yves Tabla, FC Montreal, USL, 1111 (14)

22. Kadin Chung, WFC2, USL, 1074 (13)

23. Raheem Edwards, TFC II, USL, 1026 (13)

24. Mark Anthony Kaye, Louisville City FC, 984 (15)

25. David Choiniere, FC Montreal, USL, 921 (12)

26. Mark Anthony Gonzalez, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 897 (16)

27. Bradley Kamdem, Rochester, USL, 884 (16)

28. Marco Bustos, WFC2, USL, 881 (11)

29. Alessandro Riggi, FC Montreal, USL, 827 (13)

30. Benjamin McKendry, WFC2, USL, 810 (12)

31. Malik Johnson, TFC II, USL, 801 (15)

32. Marco Dominguez, FC Montreal, USL, 796 (11)

33. Jackson Farmer, WFC2, USL, 792 (9)

34. Zachary Ellis-Hayden, Orlando City B, USL, 770 (10)

35. Luca Uccello, TFC II, USL, 767 (17)

36. Zachary Sukunda, FC Montreal, USL, 725 (12)

37. Jordan Murrell, Pittsburgh, USL, 719 (10)

38. Mastanabal Kacher, FC Montreal, USL, 704 (13)

T39. Callum Irving, Rio Grande Valley FC, USL, 630 (7)

T39. Quillan Roberts, TFC II, USL, 630 (7)

41. Yacine Ait-Slimane, FC Montreal, USL, 607 (12)

42. Giuliano Frano, WFC2, USL, 578 (15)

43. Philippe Lincourt-Joseph, FC Montreal, USL, 556 (15)

44. Alphonso Davies, WFC2, USL, 544 (9)

45. Sean Melvin, WFC2, USL, 540 (6)

46. Phil Di Bennardo, TFC II, USL, 537 (7)

47. Nevelo Yoseke, FC Montreal, USL, 504 (13)

48. Kianz Froese, WFC2, USL, 486 (7)

49. Jeremy Gagnon-Lapare, FC Montreal, USL, 479 (6)

50. Josh Heard, Bethlehem Steel, USL, 474 (13)

51. Matthew Baldisimo, WFC2, USL, 463 (12)

52. Charles Joly, FC Montreal, USL, 450 (8)

53. Carlos Patino, Sounders FC 2, USL, 424 (9)

54. Anthony Jackson-Hamel, FC Montreal, USL, 420 (6)

55. Thomas Gardner, WFC2, USL, 411 (11)

56. Robert Boskovic, TFC II, USL, 367 (11)

57. Brandon John, Sounders FC2, USL, 357 (6)

58. Jems Geffrard, FC Montreal, USL, 349 (4)

59. Adam Bouchard, TFC II, USL, 342 (7)

60. Sam Adekugbe, WFC2, USL, 329 (4)

61. Sahil Sandhu, WFC2, USL, 301 (10)

62. Chris Serban, WFC2, USL, 273 (6)

63. Marco Carducci, WFC2, USL, 270 (3)

64. Simon Lemire, FC Montreal, USL, 268 (7)

65. Jordan Haynes, WFC2, USL, 261 (8)

66. Steven Furlano, TFC II, USL, 257 (3)

67. Duwayne Ewart, Pittsburgh, USL, 253 (7)

68. Mackenzie Pridham, Sacramento Republic, USL, 246 (11)

69. Jonathan Grant, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 241 (13)

70. Jordan Hamilton, TFC II, USL, 182 (3)

71. James Pantemis, FC Montreal, USL, 180 (2)

72. Mo Babouli, TFC II, USL, 162 (2)

73. Heikel Jarras, FC Montreal, USL, 154 (10)

74. Jay Chapman, TFC II, USL, 141 (2)

75. Mitch Piraux, WFC2, USL, 100 (2)

76. Angelo Cavalluzzo, TFCII, USL, 93 (2)

77. Fabrice Mbvouvouma, FC Montreal, USL, 92 (4)

T78 David Edgar, WFC2, USL, 90 (1)

T78. Wandrille Lefevre, FC Montreal, USL, 90 (1)

T78. David Paulmin, FC Montreal, USL, 90 (1)

T78. Maxim Tissot, FC Montreal, USL, 90 (1)

82. Richlord Ennin, TFC II, USL, 89 (4)

83. Karl Ouimette, NYRB2, USL, 87 (1)

84. Andrew Dias, TFC II, USL, 80 (1)

85. Ashtone Morgan, TFC II, USL, 62 (1)

86. Joel Harrison, WFC2, USL, 50 (2)

87. Raheem Taylor-Parkes, Bethlehem Steel FC, USL, 44 (3)

88. Ethan Beckford, TFC II, USL, 40 (2)

89. Badreddine Boulajoul, FC Montreal, USL, 25 (2)

90. Terran Campbell, WFC2, USL, 19 (5)

91. Jimmy-Shammar Sanon, FC Montreal, USL, 18 (1)

92. Alan Camacho, WFC2, USL, 16 (1)

93. Leonard Sohn, TFC II, USL, 13 (1)

94. Mele Temguia, FC Montreal, USL, 10 (1)

95. Nick Apostol, WFC2, USL, 9 (1)

96. Nikola Stakic, TFC II, USL, 7 (1)

97. Marko Maletic, TFC II, USL, 1 (1)

USL TEAM RANKINGS, MINUTES PLAYED BY CANADIANS IN 2016, RANKED BY AVERAGE MINUTES PER GAME:

FC Montreal, 16152/18 (897.3)

TFC II, 13173/22 (598.8)

WFC2, 11041/19 (581.1)

Swope Park Rangers, 3420/19 (180)

Rochester Rhinos, 3319/19 (174.7)

Orlando City B, 3016/19 (158.7)

Wilmington Hammerheads FC, 1260/19 (66.3)

Pittsburgh Riverhounds, 972/18 (54)

Louisville City FC, 984/20 (49.2)

Sounders FC 2, 781/19 (41.1)

Rio Grande Valley FC, 630/19 (33.2)

Bethlehem Steel, 518/20 (25.9)

Sacramento Republic, 246/19 (12.9)

NYRB2, 82/19 (4.3)

Overwhelmingly Canadian Power Rankings MLS Week 20/NASL Week 15/USL Week 18

In Saturday’s win in Jacksonville’s 40-plus C heat (with the humidity), the Ottawa Fury gave 464 of a possible 990 minutes playing time to Canadians. Canadian Carl Haworth scored the second goal of the game in a 2-0 win. And, with that, Ottawa not only leads all NASL and MLS teams in terms of giving minutes to Canadians, the Fury can boast that an average of over 300 minutes per game goes to players from this country.

That achievement highlights our rankings of the minutes played by Canadians in North America’s major pro leagues.

Other achievements of note:

Tosaint Ricketts made his first MLS appearance, coming in as a sub in Toronto FC’s 4-1 win over D.C. United.

And, David Edgar made his first appearance as a Vancouver Whitecaps in last week’s midweek friendly against Crystal Palace. But, on Sunday, we was with the USL’s WFC2 squad, where he played 90 minutes.

HERE ARE THE RANKINGS:



MLS AND NASL MINUTES BY PLAYER, THE CANADIANS

1. Cyle Larin, Orlando City, MLS, 1329 (18)

2. Will Johnson, Toronto FC, MLS, 1237 (15)

3. Jonathan Osorio, Toronto FC, MLS, 1214 (16)

4. Eddie Edward, FC Edmonton/Ottawa, NASL, 1159 (13)

5. Mason Trafford, Miami FC, NASL, 1147 (13)

6. Nik Ledgerwood, FC Edmonton, NASL, 1104 (13)

7. Tesho Akindele, FC Dallas, MLS, 1064 (21)

8. Fraser Aird, Vancouver, MLS, 1014 (12)

9. Carl Haworth, Ottawa, NASL, 986 (12)

10. Drew Beckie, Carolina, NASL, 949 (12)

11. Karl Ouimette, NYRB, MLS/Jacksonville, NASL 929 (11)

12. Kyle Bekker, Montreal, MLS, 917 (14)

13. Wandrille Lefevre, Montreal, MLS, 855 (10)

14. Kyle Porter, Ottawa, NASL, 731 (10)

15. Nana Attakora, Fort Lauderdale, NASL, 725 (9)

16. Patrice Bernier, Montreal, MLS, 701 (13)

17. Maxim Tissot, Montreal, MLS/Ottawa, NASL, 697 (9)

18. Shamit Shome, FC Edmonton, NASL, 656 (10)

19. Julian de Guzman, Ottawa, NASL, 593 (9)

20. Jordan Hamilton, Toronto FC, MLS, 601 (8)

21. Mo Babouli, Toronto FC, MLS, 567 (14)

22. Marcel De Jong, Ottawa, NASL/Vancouver, MLS, 519 (7)

23. Mallan Roberts, FC Edmonton/Ottawa, NASL, 506 (7)

24. Jay Chapman, Toronto FC, 457 (12)

25. Russell Teibert, Vancouver, MLS, 447 (7)

26. Allan Zebie, FC Edmonton, NASL, 403 (9)

27. Mauro Eustaquio, Ottawa, NASL, 268 (7)

28. Marcel DeBellis, Ottawa, NASL, 171 (2)

29. Kianz Froese, Vancouver, MLS, 150 (5)

30. Sam Adekugbe, Vancouver, MLS, 111 (2)

31. Ashtone Morgan, Toronto FC, MLS, 96 (5)

32. Anthony Jackson-Hamel, Montreal, MLS, 68 (4)

33. Mozzi Gyorio, Ottawa, NASL, 65 (2)

34. Marco Bustos, Vancouver, MLS, 50 (2)

35. Tosaint Ricketts, Toronto FC, MLS, 19 (1)

36. Alphonso Davies, Vancouver, MLS, 13 (1)

37. Raheem Edwards, Toronto FC, 2 (1)

TEAM RANKINGS, MINUTES PLAYED BY CANADIANS IN 2016, RANKED BY AVERAGE MINUTES PER GAME:

Ottawa, NASL, 4203/14 (300.2)

FC Edmonton, NASL, 3114/14 (222.4)

Toronto FC, MLS, 4194/20 (209.7)

Montreal, MLS, 3038/20 (151.9)

Vancouver, MLS, 1809/22 (82.2)

Miami FC, NASL, 1147/14 (81.9)

Orlando City, MLS, 1329/19 (69.9)

Carolina, NASL, 949/14 (67.8)

Fort Lauderdale, NASL, 725/15 (48.3)

FC Dallas, MLS, 1064//23 (46.3)

New York Red Bulls, MLS, 582/22 (26.5)

Jacksonville, NASL, 347/15 (23.1)

USL MINUTES BY PLAYER, THE CANADIANS

1. Janouk Charbonneau, FC Montreal, USL, 1606 (18)

2. Skylar Thomas, TFC II, USL, 1485 (18)

3. Brett Levis, WFC2, USL, 1370 (17)

4. Daniel Haber, WFC2, USL, 1364 (19)

5. Louis Beland-Goyette, FC Montreal, USL, 1351 (16)

6. Anthony Osorio, TFC II, USL, 1312 (16)

7. Shaan Hundal, TFC II, USL, 1268 (20)

T8. Maxime Crepeau, FC Montreal, USL, 1260 (14)

T8. John Smits, Wilmington, USL, 1260 (14)

10. Thomas Meilleur-Giguere, FC Montreal, USL, 1236 (14)

11. Dominic Samuel, Rochester, USL, 1214 (16)

12. Ryan James, Rochester, USL, 1211 (17)

13. Chris Mannella, TFC II, USL, 1186 (17)

14. Aidan Daniels, TFC II, USL, 1182 (19)

15. Aron Mkungilwa, FC Montreal, USL, 1158 (14)

16. Tyler Pasher, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 1155 (14)

17. Liam Fraser, TFC II, USL, 1151 (17)

18. Michael Cox, Orlando City B, USL, 1131 (17)

19. Richie Laryea, Orlando City B, USL, 1125 (17)

20. Amer Didic, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 1117 (17)

21. Ballou Jean Yves Tabla, FC Montreal, USL, 1111 (14)

22. Kadin Chung, WFC2, USL, 1074 (13)

23. Raheem Edwards, TFC II, USL, 1026 (13)

24. Mark Anthony Kaye, Louisville City FC, 984 (15)

25. David Choiniere, FC Montreal, USL, 921 (12)

26. Mark Anthony Gonzalez, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 897 (16)

27. Bradley Kamdem, Rochester, USL, 884 (16)

28. Marco Bustos, WFC2, USL, 881 (11)

29. Alessandro Riggi, FC Montreal, USL, 827 (13)

30. Benjamin McKendry, WFC2, USL, 810 (12)

31. Malik Johnson, TFC II, USL, 801 (15)

32. Marco Dominguez, FC Montreal, USL, 796 (11)

33. Jackson Farmer, WFC2, USL, 792 (9)

34. Zachary Ellis-Hayden, Orlando City B, USL, 770 (10)

35. Luca Uccello, TFC II, USL, 767 (17)

36. Zachary Sukunda, FC Montreal, USL, 725 (12)

37. Jordan Murrell, Pittsburgh, USL, 719 (10)

38. Mastanabal Kacher, FC Montreal, USL, 704 (13)

T39. Callum Irving, Rio Grande Valley FC, USL, 630 (7)

T39. Quillan Roberts, TFC II, USL, 630 (7)

41. Yacine Ait-Slimane, FC Montreal, USL, 607 (12)

42. Giuliano Frano, WFC2, USL, 578 (15)

43. Philippe Lincourt-Joseph, FC Montreal, USL, 556 (15)

44. Alphonso Davies, WFC2, USL, 544 (9)

45. Sean Melvin, WFC2, USL, 540 (6)

46. Phil Di Bennardo, TFC II, USL, 537 (7)

47. Nevelo Yoseke, FC Montreal, USL, 504 (13)

48. Kianz Froese, WFC2, USL, 486 (7)

49. Jeremy Gagnon-Lapare, FC Montreal, USL, 479 (6)

50. Josh Heard, Bethlehem Steel, USL, 474 (13)

51. Matthew Baldisimo, WFC2, USL, 463 (12)

52. Charles Joly, FC Montreal, USL, 450 (8)

53. Carlos Patino, Sounders FC 2, USL, 424 (9)

54. Anthony Jackson-Hamel, FC Montreal, USL, 420 (6)

55. Thomas Gardner, WFC2, USL, 411 (11)

56. Robert Boskovic, TFC II, USL, 367 (11)

57. Brandon John, Sounders FC2, USL, 357 (6)

58. Jems Geffrard, FC Montreal, USL, 349 (4)

59. Adam Bouchard, TFC II, USL, 342 (7)

60. Sam Adekugbe, WFC2, USL, 329 (4)

61. Sahil Sandhu, WFC2, USL, 301 (10)

62. Chris Serban, WFC2, USL, 273 (6)

63. Marco Carducci, WFC2, USL, 270 (3)

64. Simon Lemire, FC Montreal, USL, 268 (7)

65. Jordan Haynes, WFC2, USL, 261 (8)

66. Steven Furlano, TFC II, USL, 257 (3)

67. Duwayne Ewart, Pittsburgh, USL, 253 (7)

68. Mackenzie Pridham, Sacramento Republic, USL, 246 (11)

69. Jonathan Grant, Swope Park Rangers, USL, 241 (13)

70. Jordan Hamilton, TFC II, USL, 182 (3)

71. James Pantemis, FC Montreal, USL, 180 (2)

72. Mo Babouli, TFC II, USL, 162 (2)

73. Heikel Jarras, FC Montreal, USL, 154 (10)

74. Jay Chapman, TFC II, USL, 141 (2)

75. Mitch Piraux, WFC2, USL, 100 (2)

76. Angelo Cavalluzzo, TFCII, USL, 93 (2)

77. Fabrice Mbvouvouma, FC Montreal, USL, 92 (4)

T78 David Edgar, WFC2, USL, 90 (1)

T78. Wandrille Lefevre, FC Montreal, USL, 90 (1)

T78. David Paulmin, FC Montreal, USL, 90 (1)

T78. Maxim Tissot, FC Montreal, USL, 90 (1)

82. Richlord Ennin, TFC II, USL, 89 (4)

83. Karl Ouimette, NYRB2, USL, 87 (1)

84. Andrew Dias, TFC II, USL, 80 (1)

85. Ashtone Morgan, TFC II, USL, 62 (1)

86. Joel Harrison, WFC2, USL, 50 (2)

87. Raheem Taylor-Parkes, Bethlehem Steel FC, USL, 44 (3)

88. Ethan Beckford, TFC II, USL, 40 (2)

89. Badreddine Boulajoul, FC Montreal, USL, 25 (2)

90. Terran Campbell, WFC2, USL, 19 (5)

91. Jimmy-Shammar Sanon, FC Montreal, USL, 18 (1)

92. Alan Camacho, WFC2, USL, 16 (1)

93. Leonard Sohn, TFC II, USL, 13 (1)

94. Mele Temguia, FC Montreal, USL, 10 (1)

95. Nick Apostol, WFC2, USL, 9 (1)

96. Nikola Stakic, TFC II, USL, 7 (1)

97. Marko Maletic, TFC II, USL, 1 (1)

USL TEAM RANKINGS, MINUTES PLAYED BY CANADIANS IN 2016, RANKED BY AVERAGE MINUTES PER GAME:

FC Montreal, 16152/18 (897.3)

TFC II, 13173/22 (598.8)

WFC2, 11041/19 (581.1)

Swope Park Rangers, 3420/19 (180)

Rochester Rhinos, 3319/19 (174.7)

Orlando City B, 3016/19 (158.7)

Wilmington Hammerheads FC, 1260/19 (66.3)

Pittsburgh Riverhounds, 972/18 (54)

Louisville City FC, 984/20 (49.2)

Sounders FC 2, 781/19 (41.1)

Rio Grande Valley FC, 630/19 (33.2)

Bethlehem Steel, 518/20 (25.9)

Sacramento Republic, 246/19 (12.9)

NYRB2, 82/19 (4.3)

“We’ll play a lot worse than we did tonight and win:” Miller’s take on FCE’s loss to Indy

Indy’s Omar Gordon fights off a challenge from FCE’s Allan Zebie PHOTO: TREVOR RUSZKOWSKI

FC Edmonton has found some rather, shall we say, unique ways to pull points out of the fire so far this season. There was Gustavo’s 25-yard injury-time rocket to save a point at Rayo OKC; last week, the Eddies found a way to get a late winner against Ottawa despite being down to 10 men.

But, had keeper Matt VanOekel’s last-gasp header found the Indy Eleven’s net on Saturday, it would have set a new standard. With the shorthanded Eddies trailing 1-0 thanks to a Greg Janicki goal, MVO joined the attack in the 93rd minute. Adam Eckersley’s corner found Van Oekel’s head, and the keeper sent the ball goalward where it, it, it…

Was cleared off the line by Indy’s Brad Ring. And, just seconds later, the whistle was blown for full time.

“It was a good delivery and the big man attacked the ball really well,” said Eddie coach Colin Miller. “And he made a couple of very good saves, as well.”



It was only the Eddies second loss in 10 games. But, you might have figured that this one was gonna be a problem for FCE. The Eleven, of course, is the spring-season champion and only lost its first NASL match of 2016 last week. FCE only had three outfield players available as subs. And, the Eddies were without both starting central defenders — Pape Diakite was suspended after being sent off last week against Ottawa, and Albert Watson had to deal with a family emergency back in Northern Ireland. So, Karsten Smith, signed last week, and fullback Shawn Nicklaw were placed into those starting CB roles.

And they were caught in the 13th minute; Janicki was left wide open in the box to head home a free kick from Dylan Mares.

But, interestingly enough, Indy won this game in the fashion that Eddies usually have their success. The Eddies dominated possession (the visitors had 58 per cent of the ball), but Indy’s bend-but-don’t break defence didn’t allow too many quality chances. And, Indy waited and got their chances on the break, using speed to break back on Edmonton.

“We’ll play a lot worse than we did tonight and win,” said Miller. “We’ve come into one of the stingiest places in the league and our players have nothing to be embarrassed about.”

Really, the Eddies should have created more good scoring opportunities from the possession that they enjoyed; but final ball was lacking. Jake Keegan had two great first-half opportunities, but fired one just over the bar and scuffed the shot on the second, allowing Indy keeper Jon Busch to make an easy save.

On the counter, Indy created some excellent opportunities. VanOekel was in the right spot at the right time to catch a headed effort from Omar Gordon, and then made a sensational leaping stop to deny Eamon Zayed.

Mares, who was Indy’s best player on the night, had a great second-half chance that was deflected just wide.

But, in hot, humid temperatures — water breaks were given to the players in the first and second halves — the Eddies couldn’t find an equalizer, despite all the possession.

ROSTER NOTES: Miller said signs are very positive for Canadian Ben Fisk, who started training with the Eddies last week. But a deal is not yet finalized. Two other players have been signed; one has arrived in Edmonton and should train with the Eddies early this coming week; another is expected to arrive soon. Both are awaiting clearances of their International Transfer Certificates.

As well, Watson is expected to return to Edmonton in time to be available for Wednesday’s match against the New York Cosmos — and Diakite’s suspension will have been served. But Miller admitted that Karsten Smith has played so well, he’s got a bit of a selection headache.

“We’ll play a lot worse than we did tonight and win:” Miller’s take on FCE’s loss to Indy

FC Edmonton has found some rather, shall we say, unique ways to pull points out of the fire so far this season. There was Gustavo’s 25-yard injury-time rocket to save a point at Rayo OKC; last week, the Eddies found a way to get a late winner against Ottawa despite being down to 10 men.

But, had keeper Matt VanOekel’s last-gasp header found the Indy Eleven’s net on Saturday, it would have set a new standard. With the shorthanded Eddies trailing 1-0 thanks to a Greg Janicki goal, MVO joined the attack in the 93rd minute. Adam Eckersley’s corner found Van Oekel’s head, and the keeper sent the ball goalward where it, it, it…

Was cleared off the line by Indy’s Brad Ring. And, just seconds later, the whistle was blown for full time.

“It was a good delivery and the big man attacked the ball really well,” said Eddie coach Colin Miller. “And he made a couple of very good saves, as well.”

It was only the Eddies second loss in 10 games. But, you might have figured that this one was gonna be a problem for FCE. The Eleven, of course, is the spring-season champion and only lost its first NASL match of 2016 last week. FCE only had three outfield players available as subs. And, the Eddies were without both starting central defenders — Pape Diakite was suspended after being sent off last week against Ottawa, and Albert Watson had to deal with a family emergency back in Northern Ireland. So, Karsten Smith, signed last week, and fullback Shawn Nicklaw were placed into those starting CB roles.

And they were caught in the 13th minute; Janicki was left wide open in the box to head home a free kick from Dylan Mares.

But, interestingly enough, Indy won this game in the fashion that Eddies usually have their success. The Eddies dominated possession (the visitors had 58 per cent of the ball), but Indy’s bend-but-don’t break defence didn’t allow too many quality chances. And, Indy waited and got their chances on the break, using speed to break back on Edmonton.

“We’ll play a lot worse than we did tonight and win,” said Miller. “We’ve come into one of the stingiest places in the league and our players have nothing to be embarrassed about.”

Really, the Eddies should have created more good scoring opportunities from the possession that they enjoyed; but final ball was lacking. Jake Keegan had two great first-half opportunities, but fired one just over the bar and scuffed the shot on the second, allowing Indy keeper Jon Busch to make an easy save.

On the counter, Indy created some excellent opportunities. VanOekel was in the right spot at the right time to catch a headed effort from Omar Gordon, and then made a sensational leaping stop to deny Eamon Zayed.

Mares, who was Indy’s best player on the night, had a great second-half chance that was deflected just wide.

But, in hot, humid temperatures — water breaks were given to the players in the first and second halves — the Eddies couldn’t find an equalizer, despite all the possession.

ROSTER NOTES: Miller said signs are very positive for Canadian Ben Fisk, who started training with the Eddies last week. But a deal is not yet finalized. Two other players have been signed; one has arrived in Edmonton and should train with the Eddies early this coming week; another is expected to arrive soon. Both are awaiting clearances of their International Transfer Certificates.

As well, Watson is expected to return to Edmonton in time to be available for Wednesday’s match against the New York Cosmos — and Diakite’s suspension will have been served. But Miller admitted that Karsten Smith has played so well, he’s got a bit of a selection headache.