SBNation.com User Blog: stocktonryan

Poetry Corner Kicks: Fire 0 - Union 1 (again!)

stocktonryan — Mon, 20 May 2013 19:28:27 -0000

Right place at the right time. Jack McInerney may have a reputation as a "poacher", but there is a good reason that the vast majority of his goals are scored from inside the box - he knows how to position himself. You could call it luck if it happened a couple of times, but McInerney finds the right spot at the right time over and over again. It was nice to see a couple of long-range shots from him as well. Zac MacMath also put in another decent game against the Fire; no catching balls from INSIDE the net, no own goals ... is our little goalie growing up?

Second game in seven days
The Fire and Union play
Chicago came to PPL
A wet and rainy day
Jack would start the game off right
LeToux providing service
His header put the Union up
And made the Fire nervous
Then in minute forty-two
LeToux caused a to-do
His free kick forced a diving save
And Johnson’s aim was true
Duka then would test MacMath
And fire a cannon blast
But ‘Math got big and tipped it high
The danger had been passed
Thompson from the Fire was shown
A red for causing trouble
In a slide from the behind
Cruz was forced to hobble
Up a man with time to spare
The Union wanted more
Alas they couldn’t find the net
And they just couldn’t score
LeToux would give a souvenir
To shouting Sons of Ben
Who got to take a game-ball home
When time had reached the end
Second home win for the U
Six saves from Zac MacMath
Another goal for McInern’
Makes for a playoff path

What to do with Parke?

stocktonryan — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:55:15 -0000

Hi all, I wondered everyone's opinion about something. Right now, Bakary Soumare seems to be playing well in the back line. When Jeff Parke gets healthy, where does he go? He was playing quite well prior to injury, so should the Union put him on the field at the expense of Soumare? Or do they switch him with someone else on the line? Of the four that started this past Saturday against Chicago (Raymon Gaddis - Bakary Soumare - Amobi Okugo - Sheanon Williams), Gaddis seems like the weakest of the four. Would the Union's defense be stronger if they played Parke out of position on the left side in the interest of potentially playing their best possible four players, or would they be better served to stick with Gaddis as he has the most playing time in that position? You can vote in the poll below and let me know your thoughts in the comments as well. Thanks!

Poll

What should the Union do with Parke when he recovers from injury?

Poetry Corner Kicks: 2-fer-1 special!

stocktonryan — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:12:47 -0000

Just so everyone knows, I wrote the recap of the Fire game prior to Wednesday's game against the Galaxy being played. Against the Fire, Zac MacMath was the one on fire. It seemed that every time you turned around, he was there making another save. Jack McInerney got a decent shot off which ended up being the decider, which shot him to the top of the scoring charts in MLS. Against LA, MacMath still made some massive saves, but he also scored one for the opposition. But he wasn't the only one to blame for Wednesday's meltdown. Losing to the two-time defending champs, even at home, isn't fun, but it is understandable. It would have been nice to see a bit more of a fight in the second half however. Hackworth was crying for respect prior to the Galaxy game, but it seems that respect will have to be earned elsewhere. On with the recaps ...

Fire 0 - Union 1

The Union have a new D-line
While Parke and Williams ride the pine
But it’s okay to walk that path
When your goalie’s named MacMath

...

Jack would send a ball to Cruz
A pass for which a striker craves
But his first touch he did abuse
And then MacMath would make a save

The post would then get in the act
To stop the Fire’s attacking wave
Nyarko’s shot hit post exact
And then MacMath would make a save

Casey tried a heady play
But Sean was there, he didn’t cave
Nyarko then saw breakaway
And then MacMath would make a save

Then in seventy plus five
Jack’s goal dug the Fire’s grave
The Union striker came alive
And then MacMath would make a save

The Fire pressed to tie the game
They could not score through efforts brave
For every shot they put on frame
MacMath was there to make a save

Galaxy 4 - Union 1

MacMath scored against his own team
Okugo allowed them to dream
But Hector and Keane
And Landon were mean
No respect for the U in their scheme

Sorry. This game doesn't warrant much more of a recap. The Union lost. Badly. That's enough to know, right?

Poetry Corner Kicks: Sounders 2 - Union 2

stocktonryan — Mon, 06 May 2013 19:05:48 -0000

One of the things I try to do with a poetry recap is to focus on one aspect of the game. Sure I’ll describe significant events from the match, but I also want to give the overall piece a flavor reminiscent of the game itself. But from the Union’s game against the Seattle Sounders this past weekend, which do you focus on - the poor officiating that had a hand in determining the game, or the plentiful goals? If you were an unbiased viewer, you might have thought that this was an entertaining game to watch. If you were a supporter of either team, you were probably pulling your hair out. As I had done once last season, I decided to go with limericks to represent both the entertaining aspect of the game and the somewhat farcical officiating that accompanied it.

In the end, the game was not so much decided by a really missed call in the box as it was by things like the Union’s shots hitting the post numerous times and having a goalie who saves shots from INSIDE the net. Oh well. On with the PCK recap ...

There once was a soccer official
Whose presence was not beneficial
For try though he may
His calls during play
Did not come across as judicial

But before all the calls and ejections
There was much that deserved introspection:
Who was it that scored?
Were the U moving toward
Their goal of a playoff projection?

Johnson would prove the first threat
As his goal caused the Union to sweat
And what made it worse
MacMath was reversed
And made the save INSIDE his net

The Union would then right the ship
And try to re-write this here script
But halftime would come
With the U rather glum
And the Sounders were up one to zip

But then came a thing unexpected
From a guy who was long undetected
Cruz tried to win it:
Two goals in a minute
And life in the U was injected

But then came the Sounders’ Rosales
Who felt for the U naught but malice
He was to blame
For tying the game
And silenced the U’s soccer palace

And now we can hear the ref’s whistle
Which impacts the game like a missile
Red cards were given
And none was forgiven
When tempers brought two quick dismissals

The rest of the game was made hard
By the ref reaching back for his cards
But then came the worst
The Union fans cursed:
For a hand-ball he showed no regard

With a no-call we can’t comprehend
Suspensions and injuries to mend
Each team gets a point
The ref disappoints
And that is how this game would end

Poetry Corner Kicks: Revolution 2 - Union 0

stocktonryan — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:58:36 -0000

I should know better than to get my hopes up. It was a game the Union should have won, or at least tied. The opponent was battered, bruised, and emotionally wrung out. The Union had the league’s leading scorer and had been looking better recently. But after their flat performance, the Union were left with nothing to show for their trip.

For a long time players and fans were asking for some line-up stability, and I suppose you get what you ask for. Coach Hackworth seems set on his line-up for better or for worse. During the game thread here on the Brotherly Game, commenter "nagjs1" said this in a moment of clarity, "The Union are going to have to lose a few matches in a row to get Hackworth to change the lineup, aren’t they?" We’ll see. But for now, we are left to look at the loss and see what can be done to get a better result next week at home against Seattle. And now the recap ...

-------------------

The Union had a chance to win two road games in a row
New England had a chance to say that they would not lie low
The Union could not find the net, their shots would go all wrong
New England bolstered by the crowd and chants of Boston Strong
Both opponents for the half would ping-pong back and forth
A motivated hosting club brought their attacking force
First Kelyn Rowe would miss point blank and cause the fans to groan
Then Gaddis gave the ball away to Fagundez who was stoned
Marfan got a shot away but had it punched aside
While Shuttleworth was on his game, the Union were denied
A perfect pass from Marfan to a streaking Danny Cruz
Extinguished by a goalie who made sure he would not lose
Fagundez started off the goals in minute sixty-one
The Revs, the team of destiny, would not be outgunned
Hoppenot would cross to Jack who could not punch it in
The Revs then doubled up their lead, the goal would come from Nguyen
Though down by two the U would try to find a way to score
Alas the task they tried to pass was much too hard a chore

Poetry Corner Kicks: D.C. United 2 - Union 3

stocktonryan — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:13:41 -0000

"Gluttony" is considered by many to be one of the "seven deadly sins". But after an offensive burst like the Union displayed this past week, I’m a glutton for more. As a fan, your team can never score "too many" goals. A two goal lead is never safe, but the Union were able to hold on to this one without passing up on the points. So make a glutton of yourself as you watch Jack’s rise up the scoring charts and view his weekly highlights. You can never get your fill when your team is winning.

"Hope is a subtle glutton"
As Dickinson once phrased
Jack Mac’s rise and three points gained
Can set one’s hopes ablaze
The Union gorged themselves at first
With goals scored in the bunches
The Black and Red could not keep up
While the Union stole their lunches
Jack would start the feast while slicing
Straight through D.C.’s D
The two defenders let him through
Like Moses’ Red Sea
Casey’s goal soon followed after
Jack Mac’s appetizer
United scored their first as well
But not an equalizer
After William’s super-throw
The U would find pay dirt
Jack would beat Hamid again
Serving up dessert
Pajoy hit the final goal:
The score was three to two
Keon tried to build the lead
But could not push it through
The fans were stuffed from all the goals
And satisfied for sure
But being fans with appetites
We’ll always ask for more
The U lost the possession game
And made much fewer passes
But in the end they won the match
And beat United’s ________

Poetry Corner Kicks: Toronto 1 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:45:03 -0000

What was I saying last week about a point on the road feeling like more than a point? Well, a point at home against TFC somehow feels like less than a point. Don’t get me wrong, it is great that the Union were able to battle back, in spite of a questionable call reversing a game-tying goal, and getting the point. It was also great to see 18 shots. After all, you can’t score if you don’t shoot. I feel like a broken record saying this, but it all comes down to finishing those chances. That and not encountering a goalie that just happens to be having the best game of his life in the history of ever.

The Union playing at their house
Against the Reds in their backyard
The game’s high hopes were quickly dowsed
As Stoica made a house of cards

The first half of the game was blah
With many chances gone awry
From Casey, Cruz, and Bob Earnshaw
And thus we bid this half goodbye

Bendik then would catch a fire
To keep intruders from his pen
And though his efforts we admire
It drew the ire of Sons of Ben

Earnshaw then blew by the U
And left the defense in the dust
He chipped his shot, his aim was true
His flipping joy caused much disgust

Then the subs were called upon
To push the Union toward their goal
Marfan, Hoppe, and Kleberson
Would help them dig out of their hole

But Stoica soon would make his mark
As Jack and Morgan soon would find
His whistle blew throughout the park
It made the watchers lose their minds

Then in minute ninety-three
From off the boot of Cap’n Jack
Came the shot that would decree
The Union had come storming back

Hoppenot would have a shot
To score and let the Union win
But Bendik did as goalies ought
And saved the strike to Hoppe’s chagrin

Eight points from the six games played
Is good enough to find sixth place
But finishing can’t be delayed
If they’re to give a playoff chase

Poetry Corner Kicks: Crew 1 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:07:48 -0000

How does the old saying go? Something like, "a point on the road is still a good thing"? Actually, that’s probably not a saying, because it’s not catchy and sounds lame. But despite its lameness, it is still true. The Union gained a point on the road against a pretty good Crew team, so that’s not nothing. It is good to see 15 shots coming from Union heads and feet, but it is a bit frustrating to only come out with one goal to show for the effort. Overall, this was a more entertaining game to watch than the Red Bulls game last week. But entertaining won’t get you to the playoffs. We’ll see if the Union can get their finishing in gear. On to the Poetry Corner Kicks recap ...

On the road in C-bus
The Union came to play their game
But for all the fuss
Just a single point was claimed
The shots were flying fast
But many tries would miss their mark
Chances were amassed
But taken like the park was dark
Then Jack would break the tie
His shot in minute thirty-four
Would not be denied
He caught the pass from Cruz and scored
Casey had a look
And tried to build the lead to two
Once his shot was took
It shanked and bid the chance adieu
Oduro, Casey, Speas
Okugo, ‘Toux, and Hoppenot
Despite their expertise
Just could not make their chances go
In the second half
In minute seventy plus two
Dom would beat MacMath
And bring some good news to the Crew
Giving up late goals
Seems to be the Union’s mode
But taken on the whole
They’ll take the one point on the road

Poetry Corner Kicks: Red Bulls 2 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 15:43:36 -0000

Move along folks, nothing to see here, at least nothing that we haven’t seen before. Just another loss at Red Bull Arena. I don’t put much stock in hexes (unless I’m cheering for the USMNT), but are we looking at a curse here? We can’t seem to buy a win at this venue. I wonder if they sell Red Bull Arena Voodoo dolls. I should buy one and put pins in it.

It was a bit of a sloppily defended game for the Union, but they somehow managed to stick around until the end. It’s also pretty amazing to see how Henry electrifies not only a crowd, but his team. When he starts a match you don’t see the difference as much, but because he was a second half sub in this game, the change in excitement and expectation for the team and crowd was palpable. I will never cheer for the Red Bulls, but even I will admit that it was pretty cool to see. On with the recap ...

Hoping for a win and redemption on the pitch
The Red Bulls came to play before their season came unhitched
Philly came in strong with six points upon the board
But could not add another as a loss was their award
The score was zero-zero as the game entered the half
The second frame would tell the final story of this match
Soon in minute fifty-five Dax would take his shot
Which put the Red Bulls in the lead and broke the tie of naughts
But soon the Union would erase the cries of victory
When Conor’s head found Sheanon’s toss in minute sixty-three
With shouts of "Henry!" from the crowd, he did not disappoint
His bike attempt would miss but it electrified the joint
Still the game was sitting tied but this was far from done
For Henry showed a touch of class in minute eighty-one
First his right leg then his left to score the final goal
The Union were now down by one and couldn’t gain control
A late attempt by Casey and young Hoppenot’s fleet feet
Brought a waived-off goal and a card made it complete
The Union cannot get a point in Harrison, New Jersey
Will they ever win in there, or is it just a curse-y?

Poetry Corner Kicks: Revolution 0 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:09:30 -0000

What can one write about this game? There certainly weren’t very many "poetic" moments from this game played in almost every conceivable element of weather. Sloppy weather and sloppy play combined for a sloppy win, but honestly, the Union will take it. Who would have thought that going into the Red Bulls (0-1-2) game that their records would be the inverse of each other in favor of the Union (2-1-0)? It is still early and the Union have only beaten Colorado and New England so far, but even those were games that would have been lost last year. On to the (brief) recap ...

From the sky fell snow and rain
To drench the field of this campaign
Both teams riding high from wins
Who last year took it on the chin

Cruz would take it on the head
But blocked a chance upon his net
A game of misses, that’s for sure
Like Lahoud’s in minute thirty-four

MacMath got big in thirty-five
When stopping Bengtson’s scary drive
New England’s shanks close to the end
Almost tied the game for them

Jack it was who scored the goal
That brought the win in sleet and cold
At first ‘twas saved by Shuttleworth
But, rebounded, a chance unearthed

Right place at the right time, he
Made sure his strike was guaranteed
Six points from their first three tries
The boys in blue are riding high

Just one Farfan in the match
More shots bobbled by MacMath
How long will Cruz be MIA
A win, but questions still remain

Poetry Corner Kicks: Rapids 1 - Union 2

stocktonryan — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 14:54:50 -0000

How about that? The Union make their first three-pointer of the year. There were some interesting tactics employed by manager John Hackworth, but I was glad to see that Amobi Okugo’s plan of growing his hair longer to gain a few more inches on corner kicks is working well. It’s probably too early to say that this was a must win for the Union, but after the way last season, the offseason, and the home opener all went, a win was needed to instill a bit of confidence into the team. We’ll see how long it carries over! On to the recap ...

The snows of Colorado came to call
And caused delays for players, fans, and all
But this was just a technicality
For Union players there to grab all three
Then Brian Mullan, much to his chagrin
Was fouled by wind who kicked him in the shin
Some chances for both teams were duly thwarted
By McInerney and the Rapid’s woodwork
Then two things that had not for long been seen
Transpired to put the Union in the lead:
Le Toux had placed his corner with control
And the Union from a set piece scored a goal
But Marfan was denied a chance to double
Then Jamie Smith would score to cause some trouble
Young Hoppenot was seen to bob and weave
And saw a McInerney there to feed
So with a perfect pass through ‘fenders’ feets
Jack Mack would score to make the win complete
Three points would go in favor of the U
Let’s hope this means good things for boys in blue

Poetry Corner Kicks: Sporting Kansas City 3 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 16:32:35 -0000

Welcome back MLS! Poetry Corner Kicks has missed writing recaps of Union losses, so it’s good to be back in the saddle again. In fairness, the Union didn’t look "3-1" bad. Yes there were breakdowns, but overall, they looked like an improved team. One for 17 needs to change though. Especially when you see other teams (cough-Galaxy-cough) going four for 19. But while this game wasn't easy on the eyes, that new kit sure is. If I played for SKC, I'd trade jerseys with a Union player just so I could wear that one! On with the recap ...

On Saturday March second, two thousand and thirteen
The Union took the field against a gifted SKC
The first kick of the year for the MLS machine
Took place at PPL where the fans had all convened

The story was a fairytale for Union fans at first
Seba scored the first one, like it had been rehearsed
So many chances came as if the shooting dam had burst
But none would find the mark and their mojo was reversed

Zusi found the net to bring them level with the U
The score was tied at one which meant the game began anew
The second half was looming ‘gainst the foes in powder blue
As much as Union tried, they just could not break through

With Nieslen standing on his head and closing ev’ry door
Sporting Kansas City would find many ways to score
Rosell and Bieler then would put them up two more
Which caused the guts of Sons of Ben to drop down to the floor

The Union had their chances, even more than SKC
But couldn’t find the netting’s back to any great degree
At least they shot the ball, on that we can agree
But chances do not win the game when finishing’s the key

The Union lost their first; it’s too soon to call it quits
The season’s just beginning and this loss they can acquit
Sporting Kansas City gave the Union defense fits
But one thing we can say- the U had better kits

Poetry Corner Kicks: U.S. 1 - Honduras 2

stocktonryan — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 16:27:17 -0000

Welcome back to Poetry Corner Kicks. It’s been a bit of an offseason for me, but it has certainly been interesting watching the evolution of the Union and the development of the USMNT. Our first recap of the New Year centers on the first Hex game for the United States. Which, to be magnanimous, went rather poorly. Aside from a beautifully struck ball from Dempsey, things got ugly. Call me naïve, but I thought the United States would get out of Honduras with at least one point. Turns out the defense for the Red White and Blue had other plans. Now the PCK recap...

LD out but Dempsey in
Klinsmann shouting for the win
Bradley plays the Mid King-Pin
The players were all there

Some were old and some were new
All were wearing Red, White, Blue
This was who we hoped came through
For U.S. fans in waiting

As is normal for this team
Howard played a game extreme
Hoping that his play redeemed
A defense that was failing

‘gainst the grain a Dempsey goal
Shot from yonder grassy knoll
Put the U.S. in control
But only for a bit

Soon there came a perfect strike
Juan Garcia brought his bike
(If on Facebook, hit "dislike")
The score was fin’ly knotted

Both sides pinging to and fro
Hit shots, missed shots, none would go
Bengtson then dealt the death blow
And sent the U.S. reeling

Outplayed by the Catrachos
U.S. "D" was quite exposed
Many ills to diagnose
Let’s hope they get it fixed

Chandler now is Yankee tied
That’s the good news to provide
Now we must brush this aside
And learn for Costa Rica

Tebow in Pittsburgh? Thoughts?

stocktonryan — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 20:28:08 -0000

With all of the talk swirling about Tebow leaving the Jets, it got me thinking about where he might land. Now, this is strictly hypothetical, but I was curious as to what the rest of the BTSC community thought of possibly having Tebow in black and gold.

A couple of thoughts... First, our backup QB situation this year hasn't exactly been inspiring. Batch had a great finish to the Ravens game, but as much as I love Batch (and I have loved having him on the team), it might be time for a change in our backups- especially given their propensity for injuries. Secondly, Tebow plays a bit more like Big Ben. If (and when) Ben goes down again, it might be good to have someone who plays a similar style so that there is less shifting around of the offense. Tebow does not have the accuracy of Ben, but it would be a similar mindset, which can go a long way.

This all seems fairly unlikely, especially because Tebow will probably want to go somewhere where he has a chance to start, which won't happen in Pittsburgh. But he is a high-character guy who is self-motivated, a team player, and willing to do what it takes to win, which sounds like the kind of guy I want on the Steelers. I honestly don't know how it would all work, but what do you all think? Good idea? Bad idea?

Poetry Corner Kicks: Revolution 0 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 14:42:13 -0000

Double digit wins. I wasn’t sure if the Union would get there this season, but here they are. It struck me that with just one more win, the Union will have equaled their win total from last year- their first playoff year. Yes, they have almost twice as many losses as last year too, but it seems strange that I could be celebrating a win just as many times this year as last year. In honor of The Princess Bride turning 25 this year, we could say that this year hasn’t been ALL dead, just MOSTLY dead. So there is still hope for the Union next year. If not, we’d only be able to go through their pockets and look for loose change. On with the PCK recap...

On these nights when air turns cold
With PPL seats left unsold
The Union played a game to hold
The Revolution in their place

The Revs were not quite up to snuff
Their efforts here proved not enough
To beat the Union and their stuff
Or match the Union’s steady pace

Though both were out of playoff hope
The Union would not sit and mope
For winning finds a way to cope
And save the fans a little grace

Bengtson started with a bang
But off the post his shot would clang
Continuing Revs sturm and drang
MacMath could save a little face

Cardenas then was rather shy
And wouldn’t pull the trigger, why?
His efforts clearly gone awry
The ball then cleared from Union space

Then JackMac scored his seventh goal
He knocked it in while near the pole
He played K’s kick with much control
And became the Union’s scoring ace

‘Math would save a shot from Guy
And Benny’s red bid him "bye-bye"
Thus not a loss and not a tie,
Philly won at their home base

Poetry Corner Kicks: SKC 2 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 14:35:44 -0000

After another loss, the Union fans have to be frustrated. The blue and gold lost to the powder blues, making the fans sing the blues. Who was the king of blues poetry? None other than Langston Hughes. In trying to encapsulate the feeling after this all too familiar loss, PCK turns to Hughes' poem The Weary Blues for inspiration. You can see the original poem here, then check out the PCK recap below.

Droning a drowsy sympathetic tune,
Bemoaning this season with losses strewn
I saw the Union play
Out in Kansas City’s heartland night
By the brilliance of soccer stadium lights
The Union faded away
The Union faded away
To the tune o’ the Union blues
With ‘Math’s hands keeping the U alive
Peterson struck: one-time line drive
O Blues!
At half, Union down but not out yet
For next was Hoppenot’s shot in the net
Sweet Blues!
Coming off of Marfan’s saved shot
O Blues!
The SOB’s song was heard for a touch
We heard those folks sing, that old DOOPing song
"Doop Doop Doop do do Doop Doop Doop
Do Doop Doop Doop do do Doop Doop Doop

Thump Thump Thump the U’s hopes hit the floor
They played a bit more then Sapong went and scored
"I got the Union Blues
And I can’t be satisfied
Got the Union Blues
And can’t be satisfied-
I ain’t happy no mo’
We can’t score on our tries"
And far into the night the U’s fans crooned that tune
Their blues went up straight to the moon
In the game’s final minutes another game fled
The same ol’ story the Union have read
Just one more game till the season is dead

Poetry Corner Kicks: Dynamo 3 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 14:57:34 -0000

Well, apparently the international break was too long for the Union. Any momentum that may have been gained from the previous wins was lost and they reverted back to their Nowak-ian ways. On a night with little highlights for the Union, the one bright spot has to be McInerney’s scoring. He’s no Wondo, DeRo or even LeToux yet, but he is squite young. To see eight goals from him, despite not playing much in the first 11 games under Nowak, is encouraging. PCK examines the latest sloppy loss from the blue and gold...

What to say? What to do?
Another loss from you-know-who
Some sloppy O and sloppy D
Gave Union one and Houston three

One could cry 'bout Geiger's calls
But that would do no good at all
It seemed the Union tried to lose
And leave the game all worn and bruised

Kandji started off real fast
By picking Valdes and blowing past
Our defense who were caused to sweat
When Kandji's ball found back of net

Soon Mac headed home a goal
That gave some hope to my poor soul
We thought his goal might help a ton
Alas it was the only one

MacMath would keep them in the game
Until Garcia staked his claim
His blast that smacked the goalie's hand
Went in the net and cheered the fans

This was all the Or'nge would need
But Geiger wanted penalties
So there in minute sev'ty-five
A penalty was then contrived

Davis' shot would leave no doubt
And finish off dear Houston's rout
Another loss came to the U
Another home win for the Hou

Despite the Gieger influence
The Union played without prudence
I guess 'tween games it was too long
And killed momentum's siren song

Steelers Recap Haiku

stocktonryan — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 14:01:45 -0000

Steelers Recap Haiku

Win despite mistakes
Div. games in Steelers' favor
Getting back on track

Steelers Recap Haiku

stocktonryan — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 15:12:43 -0000

Steelers Recap Haiku

I write game recaps in poetry for the SBN blog Brotherly Game. This is my weekly haiku recap for my Steelers. Hope you like it.

Steelers Recap Haiku

stocktonryan — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 02:27:34 -0000

Steelers Recap Haiku

I do game recaps in poetry for the SBN blog Brotherly Game. This is the link to my latest Steelers recap haiku. Enjoy and go Stillers!

Poetry Corner Kicks: Fire 1 - Union 3

stocktonryan — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 14:41:50 -0000

The Chicago Fire hoped this would be a night to remember. They were celebrating their club's 15th anniversary, they brought back some great players from their team’s history, and the current side was playing well (with the exception of their hiccup against Sporting Kansas City). But it ended up being a night they'd like to forget. The Union came in like a team possessed (with, ironically, not as much possession this time) and spoiled the celebration. Adding just a touch of sweetness to an otherwise officially meaningless game, was the fact that they won big in front of Peter Nowak in a Fire Jersey. Check out the PCK recap below.

Once upon a time a team
Whose inconsistencies were deemed
A blight on fans enduring trust
Caused their playoff hopes to bust

They lost and won and lost some more
For painful stretches they couldn’t score
But lately goals were picking up
Some wins were coming for the club

With McInerney scoring fast
And Gomez shooting cannon blasts
The Union found themselves on top
But soon their lead of two was dropped

In rarely seen defensive gaffe
Sheanon’s legs were sliced in half
Letting slip a goal that showed
Oduro’s shot had cracked the code

But Franco found a red and then
The Fire found themselves at ten
The Union pushed for one more goal
And Marfan found young Hoppenot

His back heel shot was right on frame
Which set the Fire’s hopes aflame
Surely this was much more fun
Than zero points and losing tons

If only Nowak could have seen
The Union play like a machine
Oh wait he was, and dressed in red
To watch the team he’d left for dead

Poetry Corner Kicks: Crew 3 - Union 2

stocktonryan — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 14:35:07 -0000

Call me crazy, but I’m actually looking forward to next year. The Union have some decent young players on the team that are gaining valuable minutes and playing time, and hopefully Hackworth can work to get some finishers on the team in the offseason. Though I’m obviously disappointed in the results of this year, it could always be worse: I could have been a Toronto fan. See below for this weeks Poetry Corner Kicks recap.

Coming off the high
Of a win over the Orange
The Yellow brought a game
That would bring them back to
Earth
Columbus got the best
Of the Union on this night
And ended hopes of playoffs
With the closing of a
Berth

Arrieta’s goals
Were the story ‘fore the half
That and ‘Kugo’s game
Like manure on his
Shoe
The second half brought many changes
Namely two more goals
But these were off of Union feet
To tie the game at
Two

Cruz’s PK goal
Was his first in Union blue
Jack Mac’s goal was pretty too
As o’er the keep’ it
Soared
But comebacks are a rarity
Especially for the U
For not a minute later
Columbus shot and
Scored

The Union won’t go quietly
Though out of playoffs they
Miro’s goal was quite offsides
The U would have you
Know
Off or on ain’t here nor there
For now the U are done
Another year, another chance
Our youngsters have to
Grow

Poetry Corner Kicks: Dynamo 1 - Union 3

stocktonryan — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:18:38 -0000

I almost don't know what to say. A win? W-I-N. Those three letters put together in that combination are not what I expected going in to this game. Poetry Corner Kicks has pointed out a few times that during this losing stretch, most of the stats have been on our side, except for the all-important goals. That seemed to change a bit with this game. Shots on goal, a sharp looking Adu, and some nice saves from MacMath finally put one in the win column for the ol’ Blue and Gold. Rest that leg, Freddy! Check after the jump for this week’s Poetry Corner Kicks recap.

I shout "Huzzah!" from every rooftop
In joyous rapture I
For after long and trying hours
A win falls from the skies

The Dynamo had just returned
From gaming CCL
The Unionites had just returned
From streaking, losing hell

A big-time save from Tally Hall
Brought many déjà-vu
But this game was still early on
Much work there was to do

Young Adu struck in twenty-eight
The goalie screened from sight
So Adu ripped his shot right off
‘tween legs and through the pipes

A rookie by the name of Gaddis
Showed the world his drive
As down the flanks he roared all night
He’s not survived, but thrived

Garcia for the men in Or’nge
Then tied the game at one
The blast from off his right foot was
A shot as from a gun

The half would come with both teams scored
But each had only one
But lucky for the men in blue
This time they were not done

Then the men from Houston got
A little bit confused
Instead of soccer, played football
And Sheanon was abused

It happened in the box and so
The Union scored again
This would be all that they would need
But this was not the end

Martinez opened his account
A goal to seal the deal
A poke from off of Josue’s toe
Made three goals and a meal

The Union still have much to do
For this was just one win
But if our forwards can score more
They can do it again!

Steelers Recap Haiku

stocktonryan — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 16:40:40 -0000

Steelers Recap Haiku

I write game recaps in poetry for the SBN site Brotherly Game (Philadelphia Union soccer team). This is my weekly recap haiku for my Pittsburgh Steelers Enjoy.

Poetry Corner Kicks: D.C. United 1 - Union 0

stocktonryan — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 14:44:03 -0000

The scoring woes continue in the land of PPL. The Union seem to have no problem dominating the stat sheet in most categories except for a small one we call "Goals". Through 27 games played, the Union only have 26 goals. While this isn’t the worst Goals-Per-Game average in the league, it’s very close. I have yet to write a Poetry Corner Kicks recap for a win. I don’t know if I’d even know how to do that. With Houston around the corner on Sunday and the beat-down they administered in their latest CCL match, it doesn’t seem likely that I’ll get the chance any time soon. See after the jump for the poem for today.

I cannot think of many things to write
When both teams seemed content to lose the fight
With Marfan out for play a bit too rough
And DeRo out with inj’ry sure enough
The fans in stands and those who watched the tube
Were subject to some sloppy soccer soup
Coach Hackworth had a plan to put the ball
Into the net to end the scoring stall
Formation changes and the personnel
Would help them to depart their scoreless hell
The stats were pil’ing up in Union’s favor
Alas there were no goals for them to savor
But irony was there you best can bet:
An erstwhile Union player found the net
The former leading scorer for the U
Had shot the ball, this time his aim was true
Though used to seeing Pajoy sky his shots
There was no doubt that this one found its spot
For Union players what is left to say
Their many shots were not enough this day
Perhaps what’s needed is a bigger net
To help our lack of scoring to offset

Poetry Corner Kicks: Toronto 1 - Union 1

stocktonryan — Sun, 16 Sep 2012 00:33:15 -0000

When the bottom two teams in the East go at it, everybody loses. In this case, neither team technically lost, given the final 1-1 result, but I don’t think either team feels like celebrating after that one. For this game’s recap, I thought I’d take a page from Emily Dickinson. Her poem I Had Been Hungry All The Years, is a poem about a hunger that when finally satisfied, leaves one still feeling empty. Of course, the Union haven’t satisfied their hunger lately, so my version will be a bit different, but it gets the point across of a hunger and a longing for a win. For context, you can read Emily’s poem here, then check out the latest Poetry Corner Kicks recap.

I had been hungry all the years-
On wins I wished to dine
I, trembling turned on the tube
To see the Union shine

‘Twas on this pitch that I had seen
Better games of yesteryear:
"TFC outscored by four"
But here realized my fears

I did not know that ample offense
‘Twas so unlike the U’s
Hassli’s goal in fifty-eight
Made Ben’s Sons think they’d lose

Then Williams helped them, ‘twas in time
Myself, and all relieved
A tie was better than a loss
I now came to believe

But just one point, so I found
Won’t take this hunger away
Of fans that sit inside the park
For wins, their loyalty repaid

Steelers Recap Haiku

stocktonryan — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:02:41 -0000

Steelers Recap Haiku

I write recap poetry for the SBN blog Brotherly Game. I also do a weekly Steelers recap haiku. Enjoy.

Poetry Corner Kicks recap - USA v. Jamaica

stocktonryan — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 14:11:50 -0000

Poetry Corner Kicks recap - USA v. Jamaica

I do game recaps in poetry for the SB Nation blog Brotherly Game (Philadelphia Union). My latest entry is a brief recap of the two recent USMNT WC qualifiers against Jamaica. Enjoy.

Poetry Corner Kicks: USA v. Jamaica

stocktonryan — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 14:56:05 -0000

We hear the words "free kick" thrown around so often these days in soccer circles. But these last two World Cup qualifiers had nothing of the kind. Rather than "free", these kicks were incredibly valuable to both teams. Dempsey’s first-game-first-minute smack was the only goal in the run of play. It was somewhat staggering that more goals were not scored from the run of play last night in Columbus, but the peppering of shots could only find the woodwork. At least the USA found the three points they were looking for. See after the jump for the Poetry Corner Kicks recap of both games.

There we were in Kingston Jamaica
To gain at least a point
But these Boyz were no cup-cake-a
The Office attendees rocked the joint

Dempsey drew the game’s first blood
Before the crowd could find their seats
Yanks thought it would bring a flood
Of goals from off their players’ feet

But this goal would stand alone
Without friends or close companions
And this lead could not be grown
In the Office, this pit, this canyon

Free kicks then the goal du jour
Kicked by Austin and by Shelton
Sent the US home unsure
And their Cup hopes started meltin’

Game two came to C-bus night
Where the US felt a weight:
Take three points and set aright
Their feeble-standing hope's estate

Shots from US feet were fired
But none found the back of net
Woodwork played a game inspired
Caring nothing for their sweat

Dempsey drew a free kick foul
Herc would kick in fifty-two
Resulting in a long-drawn howl
From Jamaicans who would lose

Now in three-way tie for first
Yanks are sure still in the mix
But you know, it could be worse
(Thinking here of Olympics)

Steelers Recap Haiku

stocktonryan — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 14:25:57 -0000

Steelers Recap Haiku

Stillers' 'chilles heel
is Broncos QBs, whether
Tebow or Manning
#steelersrecaphaiku