The Rhinos and Montreal re-new their rivalry tonight at Pae Tec Park. The first meeting since last seasons when Jason Perry tore down the Ultras banner.
In today's Democrat and Chronicle, Rhinos midfielder says it best. "It's Montreal, Bottom Line."
Minnesota last night came back from 0-1 down against Seattle to win 2-1 in the final 12 minutes. The three points, allowed them to jump over Montreal in the standings and now, the Impact are officially in last place.
Jeff DiVeronica asks today in his blog, if the rivarly is still as heated as ever?
John Ball understands it. Other players understand it too. The fans get it as well, all you have to do is read www.RhinosZone.com or listen to the daily radio shows to see it. Ball says it right also, when he says he needs to teach the younger players about the rivalry. Sure, this is a new thing for guys like Tiger Fizpatrick, Ross Smith and Danny Earls. In fact, they may not think much of it, because those players have played on bigger stages.
One thing we've always learned about the series between the Rhinos and Montreal is this: Talent doesn't always win. Heart and Desire always does. When these teams play, points in the standings are tossed out of a window. They don't matter. The team that plays with more heart and passion, wins. If the Rhinos don't understand that, all the talent in the world won't help us. We are the stronger and more talented club then Montreal.
I do think the club will hear Ball's message loud and clear. This match is for the pride of Rochester. It's more then just 3-points. "It's Montreal, Bottom Line."
My Starting XI-
Vallow - Ball, Smith, Palguta, Earls - Kreamalmeyer, Tiger, Gregor, Guppy - Menyonger, Salles
Prediction: 3-0 Rhinos. Tiger, Ball, Menyonger.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
The Legend of Pat Ercoli
I think people need to read into the articles that Jeff DiVeronica wrote in Thursday's editions of the Democrat and Chronicle a little more in-depth about Pat Ercoli only have two offers to coach after he was fired as Rhinos head coach.
Everyone always tries to tell me and i hear it all over the internet and radio as well, that Ercoli firing was not justified and how he should have been back this season. Ok, so those talks are silenced with the recent hot-streak, but tell me you didn't hear people whisper they wanted Darren Tilley out and brought Ercoli back? I don't buy it and that article backs me up....
It's almost no secret those Rhinos teams had a massive advantage financially over the rest of the league. In many cases, our roster was twice as expensive as some of the other teams. The Rhinos were able to sell players such as Pat Onstad and Olandi Lowe for high amount of money. Rhinos recieved $50k for Lowe to leave to Major League Soccer. In those days, most A-League clubs had a $200k operating budget. So do the math. Rhinos were up in the $400k range in just payroll.
Second of all, if Ercoli was such a great idea for the Rhinos in the year 2008, then why hasn't anyone offered him anything? I was never a true fan of Ercoli's system and his philosophy on the game of football, but even I am stunned at the lack of offers. The Toronto Lynx offered him a deal, probably the worst team in the A-League and the cheapest. They were known to sell their players mid-season to Montreal just to make a few bucks. And Puerto Rico. We're not talking about their team now, but a "few years ago". They were a bottom feeder just like Toronto was in the A-League. No doubt their offer was a low-ball offer and they just had hoped he'd take them on it to be able to live in sunny Puerto Rico and become a National team coach, all in one package. Ercoli rejected to stay home and run his "craft store".... kinda sketchy, i'm not gonna lie.
Third of all, the mastermind behind all those Rhinos championships was Chris Economides. The guy had the eye for talent. In 2001 for example, when the club was struggling, he tradeded young defender Carlos Parra for Stoain Mladenov. Then signed defender Kalin Bankov. Economides still has the same mindset, signing cheap and almost unknowns and turning them into stars. And finding the right pieces to fit his team. The difference is, he's not having the same success in Carolina because other teams are smarter and have more money to spend to find players, so his player pool has gotten tiny. Carolina is struggling once again in the standings.
And finally, the fact that Scott Schweitzer and Tilley have both become future head coaches. It just shows, his teams had the right players, the right "leaders". None of his teams were ever led by Ercoli himself, he had the right personnel on the field to lead by example.
I don't doubt that Ercoli ever lacked passion and desire for the Rhinos, what he has done in the past, is fantastic and he is a major reason of why the Rhinos are what they are today and that is his legacy. I think it's great he comes to Pae Tec Park to watch the team play, but i think it needs to be kept as that. A return, i think would be messy as he would have much trouble trying to adjust to today's USL First Division.
Enjoy Ercoli Night at PTP tomorrow night, should be a good time, and a big crowd, first 5k fans recieve a Ercoli card and he will be available to sign autographs. He has a true legacy with Rhinos fans and that's how it should always be. He should be proud of what he accomplished in the past and as fans, we should be proud of him too. But, let's not start thinking of even talking about bringing him back...
Everyone always tries to tell me and i hear it all over the internet and radio as well, that Ercoli firing was not justified and how he should have been back this season. Ok, so those talks are silenced with the recent hot-streak, but tell me you didn't hear people whisper they wanted Darren Tilley out and brought Ercoli back? I don't buy it and that article backs me up....
It's almost no secret those Rhinos teams had a massive advantage financially over the rest of the league. In many cases, our roster was twice as expensive as some of the other teams. The Rhinos were able to sell players such as Pat Onstad and Olandi Lowe for high amount of money. Rhinos recieved $50k for Lowe to leave to Major League Soccer. In those days, most A-League clubs had a $200k operating budget. So do the math. Rhinos were up in the $400k range in just payroll.
Second of all, if Ercoli was such a great idea for the Rhinos in the year 2008, then why hasn't anyone offered him anything? I was never a true fan of Ercoli's system and his philosophy on the game of football, but even I am stunned at the lack of offers. The Toronto Lynx offered him a deal, probably the worst team in the A-League and the cheapest. They were known to sell their players mid-season to Montreal just to make a few bucks. And Puerto Rico. We're not talking about their team now, but a "few years ago". They were a bottom feeder just like Toronto was in the A-League. No doubt their offer was a low-ball offer and they just had hoped he'd take them on it to be able to live in sunny Puerto Rico and become a National team coach, all in one package. Ercoli rejected to stay home and run his "craft store".... kinda sketchy, i'm not gonna lie.
Third of all, the mastermind behind all those Rhinos championships was Chris Economides. The guy had the eye for talent. In 2001 for example, when the club was struggling, he tradeded young defender Carlos Parra for Stoain Mladenov. Then signed defender Kalin Bankov. Economides still has the same mindset, signing cheap and almost unknowns and turning them into stars. And finding the right pieces to fit his team. The difference is, he's not having the same success in Carolina because other teams are smarter and have more money to spend to find players, so his player pool has gotten tiny. Carolina is struggling once again in the standings.
And finally, the fact that Scott Schweitzer and Tilley have both become future head coaches. It just shows, his teams had the right players, the right "leaders". None of his teams were ever led by Ercoli himself, he had the right personnel on the field to lead by example.
I don't doubt that Ercoli ever lacked passion and desire for the Rhinos, what he has done in the past, is fantastic and he is a major reason of why the Rhinos are what they are today and that is his legacy. I think it's great he comes to Pae Tec Park to watch the team play, but i think it needs to be kept as that. A return, i think would be messy as he would have much trouble trying to adjust to today's USL First Division.
Enjoy Ercoli Night at PTP tomorrow night, should be a good time, and a big crowd, first 5k fans recieve a Ercoli card and he will be available to sign autographs. He has a true legacy with Rhinos fans and that's how it should always be. He should be proud of what he accomplished in the past and as fans, we should be proud of him too. But, let's not start thinking of even talking about bringing him back...
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Congrats Montreal
Congrats Montreal for drawing Toronto last night 1-1 at BMO Field with a goal by Roberto Brown. The draw gives Montreal the Canadian Championship title and advances to the CONCACAF Champions League this fall. The Impact will play against Real Estelí of Nicaragua in a 2 leg series. I won't lie, but i hoped Montreal would lose, but now that they have won, i gotta give them credit where it's due.
Toronto FC defender Tyrone Marshall must feel like a jackass today though. Last weekend he had this to say about the upcoming Montreal match: "We have to come out and establish ourselves and show them we're playing in a higher league and the USL blows."
Newsflash Tyrone.... USL isn't far behind MLS. Either Seattle or Charleston will play in the US Open Cup Final and Montreal has won the Canadian Cup. Coincidence? I think not. MLS is becoming more and more overrated by the day.
Toronto FC defender Tyrone Marshall must feel like a jackass today though. Last weekend he had this to say about the upcoming Montreal match: "We have to come out and establish ourselves and show them we're playing in a higher league and the USL blows."
Newsflash Tyrone.... USL isn't far behind MLS. Either Seattle or Charleston will play in the US Open Cup Final and Montreal has won the Canadian Cup. Coincidence? I think not. MLS is becoming more and more overrated by the day.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Rivalry Re-visited - Top 10 Moments
There is no question that the rivalry between the Rhinos and Montreal has a long history. The two clubs just hate each other. From front office to the fans. It's a war zone each and every time these two teams meet. With so many events and games to choose from, here is our top 10 list, and hopefully we'll be able to add to it soon as this 6-point weekend could change alot for these two clubs. Enjoy.....
10. Kirk Wilson, Gabrial Gervias, Martin Nash....
-The Montreal Impact have a recent history of "signing" players who were stars in Rochester and bringing them to the Impact. Most notibly, Kirk Wilson, Martin Nash and Gabrial Gervias. Of those, only Gervias currently still plays in Montreal. The Rhinos have tried to get back at Montreal by signing Charles Gbeke. A move which did not work out well for the Rhinos. In recent years, the Impact have had the edge on signing players away from the Rhinos, however, early in the history of this rivarly, the Rhinos were the team that took players away, such as Pat Onstad and Darren Tilley.
9. July 23, 2000. Rhinos 1, Impact 3.
-The Impact won easily on this night, however, Jimmy Glenn's goal had alot of significance in the loss. Little would anyone know, that is the last Rhinos regular season goal scored in Montreal. Hopefully the Impact moving stadiums will help the Rhinos. Since that goal, the Rhinos have gone 14 straight matches in Montreal without a goal. Although, many of those games have been under very shady officiating. Rhinos players and fans have complained for years about the poor officiating in Montreal, with no success, except for earning the nickname "Whinos" around the league.
8. July 6, 1997 - Impact 6, Rhinos 1.
-Rhinos star Doug Miller send off early in the match gave the home side the advantage for nearly 85 minutes. The Impact took the advantage. Scored 4 first half goals and never looked back. Anyone who saw the match has to think this one was fixed.
7. August 20, 2005- Rhinos 2, Impact 2.
-The game that is known as the "Puddle game". Rhinos and Impact had to wait and over an hour delay as a huge rainstorm and a thunderstorm passed the area. The match had to be played that night as Montreal had to leave town the next morning. In a game where you barley could pass, one would think 1 goal could win it. Scott Schweitzer penalty in the box gave Montreal a early advantage, but Scott Vallow would save the Penalty Kick taken by Patrick Leduc. Greg Howes scored first for the Rhinos, but Nevio Pizzolitto tied it in the 57th minute. Howes, playing one of his best games as a Rhino, scored what might have been the goal of the year, just 6 minutes later to give the Rhinos the lead. However, Charles Gbeke, who would become a Rhino later on in his career, tied it up in the 86th minute. Three minutes later, he was ejected.
6. August 27, 2004- Rhinos 2, Impact 0.
-The rivarly was really on a high temper on this night. The Rhinos came out attacking and Montreal tried to slow them up, play very physical. Chris Carrieri recieved a yellow card just 5 minutes in. Mauro Biello got a yellow 11 minutes in. Impact star Adam Braz received a red in the 17th minute, which led to two Rhinos goals, in the 25th and 27th minute by Noah Delgado and Corey Woolfork. At half-time, Rhinos coach Pat Ercoli got into an argument with Impact Manager Nick De Santis. Shortly after, near the locker rooms, Rhinos star Lenin Steenkamp and Montreal star Nevio Pizzolitto got into a shoving match, in which Steenkamp was punched before officials broke the fight up. Maurico Vincello recieved a red card in the 82nd minute after his from behind tackle on Yari Allnutt. Rhinos got the last laugh and won 2-0.
5. September 5, 2004 - Impact 1, Rhinos 0.
-Rhinos coming off a loss in Leg 1 to Montreal 1-0, went to Claude Robillard Stadium for Leg 2. The Rhinos, needing a win to stay alieve in the playoffs were robbed when a Kirk Wilson goal was called off. Wilson argued the call, and got a straight red. Montreal won the game 1-0, and the series and went onto to winning the A-League title.
4. Mauro Biello.
-Biello was a star with Montreal from 1993 til 1998, when the club had to cease operations for one season. The Impact loaned Biello out to Rochester for the 1999 season. In that season, Biello scored 8 goals and 4 assists, and was the Rhinos' leading scorer. That year, the Rhinos were finalists in the A-League Final and Won the US Open Cup title. Still one of the greatest achievements by a lower league club in the United States. Biello returned to Montreal in 2000, and contineued his form. He's scored 37 goals for Montreal since returning from the Rhinos and is the Impact's captain.
3. Darren Tilley's Transfer.
-The Montreal Impact got Darren Tilley from the Toronto Lynx during the 1997 season. After joining Montreal, Tilley made his true mark in the A-League, scoring 10 goals in just 14 games. After that season, Chris Economides, then Rhinos General Manager, signed Tilley from the cash-strapped club. The Impact felt the Rhinos had stolen Tilley from them. It was a risky tactic by Economides, but it paid off. The following season, Tilley scored 28 goals and had 10 assists in 32 games and helped the Rhinos win the A-League title. The following season, Tilley scored 8 goals and helped the Rhinos win the US Open Cup title. Montreal was still bitter and did all they could to bring Tilley back, and they did in 2000. However, by then it was too late. Tilley was scoreless for the Impact in 10 matches before they offloaded him. Tilley is now the Head coach of the Rhinos which has to anger the Impact.
2. September 8, 2007 - Rhinos 2, Impact 0.
-The rivalery took a strange turn in the final meeting between the two teams last season. The Impact had beaten the Rhinos all 3 meetings and had outscored them 5-0. On this September 8th night, the Rhinos played world class football and beat the Impact 2-0 on goals by Matthew Delicate and Rey Martinez. The night got crazy in the 84th minute, after Deli's goal when Jason Perry ripped down a Montreal fan groups banner. The incident was a highly talked about issue in the USL and among the fans. Let's just say, Montreal fans and their club were not one bit happy.
1. July 12, 1996 - Rhinos 3, Impact 2.
-"The birth of Doug Miller". Doug Miller was a nobody. However, on this night, vs. Montreal, the short, #19 striker made a name for himself which put him in the hearts of thousands of Rhinos fans forever. Montreal was unbeaten against the Rhinos in 3 games in that season (2 wins) and outscored the Rhinos 5-0.... until July 12th that is. Montreal played their game and played well, scored 2 goals, however, they couldn't over come the magic of Doug Miller, who scored a hat trick. The Rhinos won and the legend of Miller grew. It was the Rhinos' first match at Frontier Field. "I couldn't write a better script for this," told Miller to the D@C after the game. His game winner came in the final minute of play.
Tell us your thoughts and memories of the Rhinos-Montreal rivalry in our comments box!
10. Kirk Wilson, Gabrial Gervias, Martin Nash....
-The Montreal Impact have a recent history of "signing" players who were stars in Rochester and bringing them to the Impact. Most notibly, Kirk Wilson, Martin Nash and Gabrial Gervias. Of those, only Gervias currently still plays in Montreal. The Rhinos have tried to get back at Montreal by signing Charles Gbeke. A move which did not work out well for the Rhinos. In recent years, the Impact have had the edge on signing players away from the Rhinos, however, early in the history of this rivarly, the Rhinos were the team that took players away, such as Pat Onstad and Darren Tilley.
9. July 23, 2000. Rhinos 1, Impact 3.
-The Impact won easily on this night, however, Jimmy Glenn's goal had alot of significance in the loss. Little would anyone know, that is the last Rhinos regular season goal scored in Montreal. Hopefully the Impact moving stadiums will help the Rhinos. Since that goal, the Rhinos have gone 14 straight matches in Montreal without a goal. Although, many of those games have been under very shady officiating. Rhinos players and fans have complained for years about the poor officiating in Montreal, with no success, except for earning the nickname "Whinos" around the league.
8. July 6, 1997 - Impact 6, Rhinos 1.
-Rhinos star Doug Miller send off early in the match gave the home side the advantage for nearly 85 minutes. The Impact took the advantage. Scored 4 first half goals and never looked back. Anyone who saw the match has to think this one was fixed.
7. August 20, 2005- Rhinos 2, Impact 2.
-The game that is known as the "Puddle game". Rhinos and Impact had to wait and over an hour delay as a huge rainstorm and a thunderstorm passed the area. The match had to be played that night as Montreal had to leave town the next morning. In a game where you barley could pass, one would think 1 goal could win it. Scott Schweitzer penalty in the box gave Montreal a early advantage, but Scott Vallow would save the Penalty Kick taken by Patrick Leduc. Greg Howes scored first for the Rhinos, but Nevio Pizzolitto tied it in the 57th minute. Howes, playing one of his best games as a Rhino, scored what might have been the goal of the year, just 6 minutes later to give the Rhinos the lead. However, Charles Gbeke, who would become a Rhino later on in his career, tied it up in the 86th minute. Three minutes later, he was ejected.
6. August 27, 2004- Rhinos 2, Impact 0.
-The rivarly was really on a high temper on this night. The Rhinos came out attacking and Montreal tried to slow them up, play very physical. Chris Carrieri recieved a yellow card just 5 minutes in. Mauro Biello got a yellow 11 minutes in. Impact star Adam Braz received a red in the 17th minute, which led to two Rhinos goals, in the 25th and 27th minute by Noah Delgado and Corey Woolfork. At half-time, Rhinos coach Pat Ercoli got into an argument with Impact Manager Nick De Santis. Shortly after, near the locker rooms, Rhinos star Lenin Steenkamp and Montreal star Nevio Pizzolitto got into a shoving match, in which Steenkamp was punched before officials broke the fight up. Maurico Vincello recieved a red card in the 82nd minute after his from behind tackle on Yari Allnutt. Rhinos got the last laugh and won 2-0.
5. September 5, 2004 - Impact 1, Rhinos 0.
-Rhinos coming off a loss in Leg 1 to Montreal 1-0, went to Claude Robillard Stadium for Leg 2. The Rhinos, needing a win to stay alieve in the playoffs were robbed when a Kirk Wilson goal was called off. Wilson argued the call, and got a straight red. Montreal won the game 1-0, and the series and went onto to winning the A-League title.
4. Mauro Biello.
-Biello was a star with Montreal from 1993 til 1998, when the club had to cease operations for one season. The Impact loaned Biello out to Rochester for the 1999 season. In that season, Biello scored 8 goals and 4 assists, and was the Rhinos' leading scorer. That year, the Rhinos were finalists in the A-League Final and Won the US Open Cup title. Still one of the greatest achievements by a lower league club in the United States. Biello returned to Montreal in 2000, and contineued his form. He's scored 37 goals for Montreal since returning from the Rhinos and is the Impact's captain.
3. Darren Tilley's Transfer.
-The Montreal Impact got Darren Tilley from the Toronto Lynx during the 1997 season. After joining Montreal, Tilley made his true mark in the A-League, scoring 10 goals in just 14 games. After that season, Chris Economides, then Rhinos General Manager, signed Tilley from the cash-strapped club. The Impact felt the Rhinos had stolen Tilley from them. It was a risky tactic by Economides, but it paid off. The following season, Tilley scored 28 goals and had 10 assists in 32 games and helped the Rhinos win the A-League title. The following season, Tilley scored 8 goals and helped the Rhinos win the US Open Cup title. Montreal was still bitter and did all they could to bring Tilley back, and they did in 2000. However, by then it was too late. Tilley was scoreless for the Impact in 10 matches before they offloaded him. Tilley is now the Head coach of the Rhinos which has to anger the Impact.
2. September 8, 2007 - Rhinos 2, Impact 0.
-The rivalery took a strange turn in the final meeting between the two teams last season. The Impact had beaten the Rhinos all 3 meetings and had outscored them 5-0. On this September 8th night, the Rhinos played world class football and beat the Impact 2-0 on goals by Matthew Delicate and Rey Martinez. The night got crazy in the 84th minute, after Deli's goal when Jason Perry ripped down a Montreal fan groups banner. The incident was a highly talked about issue in the USL and among the fans. Let's just say, Montreal fans and their club were not one bit happy.
1. July 12, 1996 - Rhinos 3, Impact 2.
-"The birth of Doug Miller". Doug Miller was a nobody. However, on this night, vs. Montreal, the short, #19 striker made a name for himself which put him in the hearts of thousands of Rhinos fans forever. Montreal was unbeaten against the Rhinos in 3 games in that season (2 wins) and outscored the Rhinos 5-0.... until July 12th that is. Montreal played their game and played well, scored 2 goals, however, they couldn't over come the magic of Doug Miller, who scored a hat trick. The Rhinos won and the legend of Miller grew. It was the Rhinos' first match at Frontier Field. "I couldn't write a better script for this," told Miller to the D@C after the game. His game winner came in the final minute of play.
Tell us your thoughts and memories of the Rhinos-Montreal rivalry in our comments box!
It's Officially Montreal Week
And let the countdown begin. Arguably the best rivalry in all of USL re-unites on Friday Night and Sunday evening. Friday night the Rhinos host the Impact while on Sunday the Rhinos will visit the brand new Saputo Stadium in downtown Montreal.
The Rhinos have gotten it together last several games, the Impact not so much, as they are still near the bottom of the standings which makes this 6-point weekend so much more important for them. However, they are coming off a great 3-1 win at home against the best defense in the league, Miami FC, the same defense that has held the Rhinos scoreless in 180 minutes this season, all at Pae Tec Park.
It's not exactly "Rhinos Week" just yet for the Impact, as they have their biggest match of the season on Tuesday, at BMO Field in Toronto vs. Toronto FC. Montreal needs a draw or a win, to become the Canadian Cup Champions and advance to the 2009 CONCACAF Champions League as the Canadian Representative.
I can't say i've ever cheered for a Major League Soccer team before, but i will for sure root for Toronto in this one. I never really disliked the Toronto Lynx in the old A-League, i mean, it was always a easy 3-points for the "Raging" Rhinos. Even Fred Commadore loved them. Who else would he show off his world class talent against?
All in all, you can already sense the excitement in both cities for this weekend. Rhinos expecting a big crowd. Maybe even 10K plus on Friday Night. Stadium should be rocking.
On Sunday, Montreal is expecting 13K fans. Not only is this a big weekend for both clubs, but also for the league. Big crowds, good games. And best of all, it's Live on Fox Soccer Channel, well atleast Friday Night's match is.
It's gonna be a fun week, folks.
The Rhinos have gotten it together last several games, the Impact not so much, as they are still near the bottom of the standings which makes this 6-point weekend so much more important for them. However, they are coming off a great 3-1 win at home against the best defense in the league, Miami FC, the same defense that has held the Rhinos scoreless in 180 minutes this season, all at Pae Tec Park.
It's not exactly "Rhinos Week" just yet for the Impact, as they have their biggest match of the season on Tuesday, at BMO Field in Toronto vs. Toronto FC. Montreal needs a draw or a win, to become the Canadian Cup Champions and advance to the 2009 CONCACAF Champions League as the Canadian Representative.
I can't say i've ever cheered for a Major League Soccer team before, but i will for sure root for Toronto in this one. I never really disliked the Toronto Lynx in the old A-League, i mean, it was always a easy 3-points for the "Raging" Rhinos. Even Fred Commadore loved them. Who else would he show off his world class talent against?
All in all, you can already sense the excitement in both cities for this weekend. Rhinos expecting a big crowd. Maybe even 10K plus on Friday Night. Stadium should be rocking.
On Sunday, Montreal is expecting 13K fans. Not only is this a big weekend for both clubs, but also for the league. Big crowds, good games. And best of all, it's Live on Fox Soccer Channel, well atleast Friday Night's match is.
It's gonna be a fun week, folks.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Weekend Recap
How can anyone NOT be happy with the latest two results by the Rhinos? The club went to Seattle and scored 3 goals and then shutout Minnesota and winning the match 1-0 on a beauty strike by Johnny Menyonger in the 19th minute. I thought the team played amazingly well against Seattle. Once Luke Kreamalmeyer scored to make it 1-0 Rhinos, the Sounders came right back and tied it 1-1. I was eager to see how Darren Tilley's squad was going to bounce back? They just played better and worked harder. It was a great sign. A sign only the elite teams show. Newcomer Andrew Gregor gave the Rhinos the lead just 10 minutes later and super-sub Matthew Delicate scored late in the match to ensure the victory, 3-1. It was the Rhinos' first away victory and they did it in style.
On Sunday, the Rhinos played against Minnesota. I thought the team played really well again and had much more chances then the Thunder. Rhinos played with good pace to the game. Attacked well and if it wasn't for some solid defending, mostly from former Rhino Kevin Taylor who i thought played a very good game.
This weekend was very promising for the Rhinos. The team got all 6 points, and moved from the near bottom of the standings, to third place. The team is tied with 24points with Vancouver, however ahead of time based on the first tie-breaker, which is goal-differential.
Since that 3-1 loss to Charleston and then the 2-0 loss to DC United in the US Open Cup, the Rhinos have been a different team. Many fans claimed the club had hit "rock bottom" after the loss to the Battery, but since those games, the club is 4-0-1. In those five games, the team has scored 8 goals and only allowing 2. Out of those 8 goals, 5 different players have scored goals, another impressive statistic about the parity of this team and how well rounded it is.
Ross Smith and Tiger Fitzpatrick: Very interesting to note, the Rhinos were without their 2 stars on defense this weekend. Without central defender Ross Smith and central defensive midfielder Tiger Fizpatrick. Both missed both games due to injuries. However, Tenywa Bonseu filled in nicely for Smith at central defense, and Alfonso Loera found himself back in the starting eleven, but in Tiger's spot at central defensive midfield. Tilley seemed very happy about Loera's play on Friday and said so on Kick This the Soccer Show on WHTK 1280 on Saturday morning. Tilley said that he's not exactly Tiger, but does bring several other features to our team that Tiger doesn't. I think Tilley is realizing what great depth he really has. Both should be back in the starting lineup on Friday night against Montreal.
It's great to be Rhinos fans right now. Team is playing really well right now and i still think the team can get better. One thing i'm really curious about is if Matt Ford will make any more deals? I still think the club lacks a true scorer, i really like Maurico Salles, but the guy is just too inconstant, i also think, Delicate has played well the last two games and has risen his value to maybe open up a trade.... who knows. Rhinos in 3rd place, not only win their first away match but outscore their two opponents 4-1....
On Sunday, the Rhinos played against Minnesota. I thought the team played really well again and had much more chances then the Thunder. Rhinos played with good pace to the game. Attacked well and if it wasn't for some solid defending, mostly from former Rhino Kevin Taylor who i thought played a very good game.
This weekend was very promising for the Rhinos. The team got all 6 points, and moved from the near bottom of the standings, to third place. The team is tied with 24points with Vancouver, however ahead of time based on the first tie-breaker, which is goal-differential.
Since that 3-1 loss to Charleston and then the 2-0 loss to DC United in the US Open Cup, the Rhinos have been a different team. Many fans claimed the club had hit "rock bottom" after the loss to the Battery, but since those games, the club is 4-0-1. In those five games, the team has scored 8 goals and only allowing 2. Out of those 8 goals, 5 different players have scored goals, another impressive statistic about the parity of this team and how well rounded it is.
Ross Smith and Tiger Fitzpatrick: Very interesting to note, the Rhinos were without their 2 stars on defense this weekend. Without central defender Ross Smith and central defensive midfielder Tiger Fizpatrick. Both missed both games due to injuries. However, Tenywa Bonseu filled in nicely for Smith at central defense, and Alfonso Loera found himself back in the starting eleven, but in Tiger's spot at central defensive midfield. Tilley seemed very happy about Loera's play on Friday and said so on Kick This the Soccer Show on WHTK 1280 on Saturday morning. Tilley said that he's not exactly Tiger, but does bring several other features to our team that Tiger doesn't. I think Tilley is realizing what great depth he really has. Both should be back in the starting lineup on Friday night against Montreal.
It's great to be Rhinos fans right now. Team is playing really well right now and i still think the team can get better. One thing i'm really curious about is if Matt Ford will make any more deals? I still think the club lacks a true scorer, i really like Maurico Salles, but the guy is just too inconstant, i also think, Delicate has played well the last two games and has risen his value to maybe open up a trade.... who knows. Rhinos in 3rd place, not only win their first away match but outscore their two opponents 4-1....
Rhinos Game-Night LIVE
Update- FINAL - Rhinos 1:0 Minnesota
Rhinos up 1-0 at Half-Time, from a goal by Johnny Menyonger. Great pass and work on the wing from Luke Kreamalmeyer. Team looks real solid, showing good pace and looks to be on the right path to get their 2nd straight road victory just 45minutes away.
Starters- Vallow - Ball, Bonseu, Palguta, Earls - Loera, Guppy, Kreamalmeyer, Gregor, Menyonger - Salles
If the Rhinos play like they did in the first 45, they will no doubt be in 3rd place in the USL First Division standings. Who would have thought?
FINAL! Rhinos hold on 1-0 on a 19th strike by Johnny Menyonger. The Rhinos move up to 3rd place in the USL First Division Standings. Well done Rhinos! Great 2 game road trip.
90+5 Delicate fouled 30 yards from the net... Rhinos free kick. Salles to take it.
90+3 Salles wins a Corner kick for the Rhinos. Rhinos coooooooooooooorner kick.
90+2' Chad Severs IN. Luke Kreamalmeyer OUT. Luke got banged up on the last Thunder attack.
90+2' Nice cross by the Thunder, saved by Vallow.
89' GREAT save by Scott Vallow. Thunder kick it out for a Rhinos goal kick. 5 minutes added to extra time.
88' Great chance by the Thunder, cleared by Alfonso Loera. Thunder corner kick...
83' Great scoring chances by the Rhinos. Kreamalmeyer passes to a open Delicate who misses the goal.
77' Rey Martinez IN. Danny Earls OUT. I didn't expect this, I thought Earls has been Rhinos' best player on the pitch tonight.
75' Thunder's Moojen's header just goes wide..... Goal Kick for Vallow.
74' Earls perfect cross to Salles for a header that nearly goes in, ex. Rhino Kevin Taylor clears it on the goal line! Great chance by the Rhinos. Great Cross by the youngster.
71' Steve Guppy EJECTED from the bench. Appears to have argued the fourth linesman.
70' Thunder's DeRoux heads it out of play for a Rhinos Coooooorner kick.
63' Thunder's Gonzalez with a nice shot from 15 yards out, Blocked by Bonseu.
61' Delicate blows by the Thunder defender and just misses the net after a nice cross from Kreamalmeyer.
57' Matthew Delicate IN. Andrew Gregor OUT.
50' Danny Earls near miss; just high
45' Nate Craft IN. Steve Guppy OUT. Earls move to the midfield....
Rhinos up 1-0 at Half-Time, from a goal by Johnny Menyonger. Great pass and work on the wing from Luke Kreamalmeyer. Team looks real solid, showing good pace and looks to be on the right path to get their 2nd straight road victory just 45minutes away.
Starters- Vallow - Ball, Bonseu, Palguta, Earls - Loera, Guppy, Kreamalmeyer, Gregor, Menyonger - Salles
If the Rhinos play like they did in the first 45, they will no doubt be in 3rd place in the USL First Division standings. Who would have thought?
FINAL! Rhinos hold on 1-0 on a 19th strike by Johnny Menyonger. The Rhinos move up to 3rd place in the USL First Division Standings. Well done Rhinos! Great 2 game road trip.
90+5 Delicate fouled 30 yards from the net... Rhinos free kick. Salles to take it.
90+3 Salles wins a Corner kick for the Rhinos. Rhinos coooooooooooooorner kick.
90+2' Chad Severs IN. Luke Kreamalmeyer OUT. Luke got banged up on the last Thunder attack.
90+2' Nice cross by the Thunder, saved by Vallow.
89' GREAT save by Scott Vallow. Thunder kick it out for a Rhinos goal kick. 5 minutes added to extra time.
88' Great chance by the Thunder, cleared by Alfonso Loera. Thunder corner kick...
83' Great scoring chances by the Rhinos. Kreamalmeyer passes to a open Delicate who misses the goal.
77' Rey Martinez IN. Danny Earls OUT. I didn't expect this, I thought Earls has been Rhinos' best player on the pitch tonight.
75' Thunder's Moojen's header just goes wide..... Goal Kick for Vallow.
74' Earls perfect cross to Salles for a header that nearly goes in, ex. Rhino Kevin Taylor clears it on the goal line! Great chance by the Rhinos. Great Cross by the youngster.
71' Steve Guppy EJECTED from the bench. Appears to have argued the fourth linesman.
70' Thunder's DeRoux heads it out of play for a Rhinos Coooooorner kick.
63' Thunder's Gonzalez with a nice shot from 15 yards out, Blocked by Bonseu.
61' Delicate blows by the Thunder defender and just misses the net after a nice cross from Kreamalmeyer.
57' Matthew Delicate IN. Andrew Gregor OUT.
50' Danny Earls near miss; just high
45' Nate Craft IN. Steve Guppy OUT. Earls move to the midfield....
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