Coasting

The Louis Cure posted a 3-0 victory over Gold Coast to run the teams unbeaten streak to five games. The victory, the squads 13th, puts them atop the Major's Cup standings and also keeps alive the opportunity of setting a record for most BSL wins in a season (the Cure must win three out of its final four games to break the record). Underrated Chad Barrett continued his fine season with the opening goal, giving him man of the match honors, which was followed up by the streaking Robbie Findley's 4th of the season. Going into Sunday's games with a 2-0 lead, the game was still up for grabs when Brek Shea delivered a cultured (as FSC announcer Chris Sullivan described it) ball to put the Cure up 3-0. The Suns had no answer; Brian Ching and the rest of Gold Coast's big guns were held in check. Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "We have been grinding out results of late. We are still not playing as well as we can, but we'd rather be peaking a few weeks from now anyway. Each week I see progress and that's what is important." The Cure will be back in action starting Wednesday, meeting Capital District, a team desperate for three points.

NEWS/NOTES
*The whole Cure team were delighted after finding out their comrades Gateway United picked up another three points, leaving them just two points out of a playoff spot. The two St. Louis clubs will meet up for the last match of the season, a match that will surely be a must win for the Saints. To quote an unidentified player, "this is lining up perfectly. Clinch the Show Me Cup and knock the Aints out of the playoffs at the same time. It doesn't get any better than this!"

*The Cure announced today they have waived Cornell Glen, who played the last two games of the season, and in his place signed Tony Tchani. While the Cure are still in search of depth up front, Tchani may be a valuable signing if Red Bull gets hot.

Honorable Mention

With its 3-3 tie against the NY Greeks, the St. Louis Cure collected the first trophy in its history. With five games still to play, the Cure have wrapped up the 2010 BSL Honors Trophy. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "I'm speechless. Obviously, earning such a special award is thrilling, especially considering the quality competition we face week after week. It has been a dream season. We have set some lofty goals and we are going to work hard to achieve them. That being said, I have complete respect for all the other clubs; the playoffs and the Majors Cup (assuming we qualify) will be a huge challenge." Ironically, Lodes admitted he didn't even realize that the draw clinched the trophy. "I was so upset with myself after the draw with the Greeks. All I could think about was how I let the players down with my team selection; to put it simply, I blew it. Naturally when I was reminded we had won the trophy, it brightened my mood considerably." Lodes was referring to his decision to bench Patrick Nyarko. Had Nyarko started, the Cure would have earned another victory. "Sometimes you can over analyze things. I felt the Galaxy, with such a tough defense, would shut down Patrick. I learned a lesson; always put your best 9 on the field."

Cure Lineup, Game 15

Starters: Buddle, Findley, Glen, Barrett, Shea, Morales, Convey, Rogers, Nielsen (GK)

Subs: Espindola, Juninho, Richards

Reserves: Alvarez, Nyarko

Dog Days

The St. Louis Cure returned to training Monday, vowing to not let what happened during their last in-season break happen again. The Cure went into the World Cup break undefeated, cocky and knowing they would return to competition against the ownerless and last placed New York Greeks. The Cure obviously took the Greeks too lightly and were shutout, still their only defeat this season. With a second break in the BSL schedule, the Cure could have scheduled a friendly or two like most other BSL clubs, but instead GM/Coach Kirk Lodes gave the squad a week off. Now back to training, Lodes led an intense, physical and long training session. Lodes, "We have completed about 3/4 of the season. We have met our goals so far. We are determined to work harder than ever to finish up the season in solid form; we still expect to win the treble." There was a new face at practice, but it was not a DP--the Cure were one of the only teams to not sign an MLS import during the past few weeks. The player they picked up, former Monarch Cornell Glen, is expected to provide cover for the strikers, taking over the position that was abandoned after the release of Luis Angel Landin. Asked about the DP situation, Lodes had this to say: "Sure if the right guy came along we would make a move. That just hasn't happened yet. We are not going to overhaul the team just to sign a DP. We are the best team in the league. Why change something that is not broken?" The Cure kick off with...yes...the Greeks Saturday. Deja Vu?

Breking Down the Town

For the second time this year, Burud Town gave the St. Louis Cure all it could handle. And again, the Cure, not nearly as dominant as earlier in the year, did what they had to do to grasp the 3 points. Brek Shea was the hero and man of the match. Ryan Smith gave Burud an early 1-0 lead, and after Chad Barrett (who has been very consistent ever since the Cure acquired him) evened the score, Brek built up a lead all on his own with a goal and assist. Edson Buddle chipped in another goal; a late Pablo Hernandez assist wasn't enough to pull Burud even. GM/Coach Lodes, "I feel bad for the Stags. They were missing some key players. We were fortunate to meet them when we did. It could have been a much different result." The Cure announced after the game they will not play a friendly during the bye week. Lodes, "The guys are tired. I think that is part of the reason why we are not as sharp as we should be. They are going to get a week off--and they certainly deserve it." The Cure will return to action against the New York Greeks, amazingly the only team to defeat them all year. Revenge will be strong incentive.

Game 14 Preview/Lineup

After a robust workout today in hot and humid St. Louis, the Cure management announced the lineup for upcoming game 14. They face the Stags, and it's a pretty good time to meet Burud Town, as Brad Davis will not be available. Still, the Stags have a quality team; the Cure must try to stop Eddie Gaven. The Cure will be without two key players themselves: joint team assist leaders Bobby Convey and Patrick Nyarko will not play, nor will new signee Arturo Alvarez.

STARTERS: Findley, Buddle, Barrett, Shea, Morales, Rogers, Juninho, Richards, Nielsen (GK)

SUBS: Espindola, Torres, Convey

RESERVES: Nyarko, Alvarez

Robbieng the Union

Aided by a controversial Robbie Findley goal, the St. Louis Cure had Union S.C. singing the blues after a 3-1 defeat, widening the distance between the club in first place and the logjam of teams scrambling for the playoffs behind them. Man of the Match Findley buried home a PK, giving the Cure a 1-0 lead, despite very vocal objections by the Blues that Findley had dived. A Chad Barrett assist made it 2-0, but Union pulled one back with a Wondolowski assist. Later in the same game, Bobby Convey chipped in another assist, giving the Cure a 3-1 lead going into the crucial Sunday night finale. Brek Shea (on as a sub) could have cemented the Cure's lead, while Jacqua and Zakuani had a chance to give Union a shocking upset, but neither happened and the Cure walked away with the three points. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes "It was not pretty, but I praise the team for battling till the very end. Not every game is going to showcase fantastic football; winning is what matters most." Asked about Union's claim that Findley's goal was bogus and that the better team lost, Lodes simply responded "A goal is a goal. We all play by the same rules. As far as who is the better team, I'll just direct you towards the scoreboard and the league standings. That should settle the issue."

MAJORS CUP: The victory over Union also put the Cure in a first place tie in the Major's Cup. Lodes, "We are going for the treble. It is realistically in our reach."

ALVAREZ JOINS CURE: The talented but sometimes under performing Arturo Alvarez was signed by the Cure, who released Emilio Renteria to bring Alvarez in. Renteria had yet to play in a Cure match, but Lodes said Alvarez may be the last part of the puzzle for the Cure this season. "I was surprised Gateway let him go. You would think a team that is having such troubles scoring would let such a promising offensive weapon go. But, I rarely can understand Gateway's rational for doing some of the things they do. So be it."

Game 13 Preview/Lineup

The St. Louis Cure will try to keep their foot on the accelerator for their Week 13 match with Union S.C. A victory will edge them ever closer to the prestigious Honors Cup. A win will also move the team ever closer to the record for most wins in a season (15). Both are now within the Cure's grasp. They must build upon last weeks victory to beat a very strong and hot Union club. GM/Coach Lodes, "We are treating this game like a playoff game. That's how crucial it is to us." The Cure are relatively healthy, but Patrick Nyarko suffered a concussion last week and will not be available.

LINEUP
Starters: Buddle, Findley, Espindola, Barrett, Morales, Rogers, Convey, Juninho, Nielsen (GK)

Bench: Shea, Torres, Richards

Reserves: Nyarko, Renteria

More Morales! Juninho is a Cure

The St. Louis Cure returned to their winning ways with a workman like effort against Gold Coast. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "I challenged the players before the game. Questioned their commitment and desire to win. Their response showed me a lot." The return of Edson Buddle didn't hurt the Cure's cause, but it was Man of the Match winner Javier Morales who was the real star. The Cure went down early to a Brian Ching goal, but the Salt Lake trio gave them a lead they would not relinquish. Fabian Espindola (probably lucky to not be sent off) scored, then Morales, who had been in fine form yet could not seem to score, chipped in with two assists. Even Robbie Findley, who didn't make it off the bench, added a goal--while it didn't count in the official box score, it may be a sign that the struggling striker is coming around. The 3-1 lead was far from safe. The Cure got a yellow card during the first game of the week and another would have meant a point for the Suns. But the team showed discipline, something they have been excellent at all year. The Suns made it 3-2 going into Buddle's game. He could either finish them off or (if was to be booked) cost the team 2 points. As usual, though, Buddle scored a fine goal; Edson has scored 8 goals in his 8 matches this year. GM/Coach Lodes, "I ripped into the lads a bit before the game. But I needed them to understand how important it was. We are going against probably the second best team in the league next week and we needed to restore our confidence." Additionally, the Cure made a roster move, dropping Luis Landin and signing Brazilian Juninho. Lodes, "Juninho has been on our radar for a while. The goal he scored Sunday sealed the deal. Landin is a fine player and he had some great efforts for us, but I just can't rely on him because of injuries and the fact that he probably won't start with Ching back in form."

Game 12 Preview/Lineup

GM/Coach Kirk Lodes remembers the Cure's first encounter with Gold Coast. "No matter how many we scored, they just kept coming." So Lodes said he believes that in Week 12's match with the Suns, everyone will need to contribute. "We are going into the game with an attitude that we must score 5 to even have a chance. We know what we are up against." This may be the most important match yet for the St. Louis Cure. After being humiliated (and shutout) last week, will the league leaders rebound? Will Buddle and Findley's return inspire a return to form? Was last week just a midseason hiccup or a sign of a more serious problem?

STARTING LINEUP
Barrett, Espindola, Buddle, Nyarko, Shea, Morales, Rogers, Convey, Nielsen (GK)
SUBS
Findley, Renteria, Torres
RESERVES
Landin, Richards

Worse Than England, Italy and France Combined

A shockingly pathetic peformance saw the St. Louis Cure drop their first game of the year, 2-0 against the lowly New York Greeks. "We are doing our part to convince the Greeks ownership to come back and take charge of their squad," Lodes joked. But he was obviously upset at how the team played in their 1st game after the World Cup break. "The team had a chance to do something great. To set all kinds of records. They let themselves down. I don't know exactly what went wrong. I know the team were disappointed after USA were knocked out of the Cup. Perhaps I gave them too many days off during the break. I'm sure the lads took the Greeks too lightly. It was horrid, but we cannot press the panic button. Hopefully it was just a freak result. Findley and Buddle are on their way back. It's time to start over." Lodes mentioned he also has his sights set on hopefully landing a big-named player when the transfer window opens, but refused to mention any names.

Week 11 Preview/Lineup: Back to Work

The midseason break is over and the undefeated St. Louis Cure are hard at work preparing for the rest of the season, with league records clearly in sight. The team gets a gift for their fist week back, going up against lame duck franchise New York Greeks. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "It will be a good chance for us to remove the cobwebs. That being said, we must not underestimate anyone if we are to achieve the goals we have made for the second half of the season."

The Cure Week 11 Lineup:

Starters: Shea, Espindola, Barrett, Nyarko, Landin, Rogers, Convey, Morales, Nielsen (GK)
Subs: Torres, Renteria, Richards
Reserves: Buddle, Findley

Midseason Report Card: Top of the Class

As the team takes a well deserved break, it is a good time to analyze how the players have done after 10 games.

Robbie Findley: C 1 Goal from the number 1 draft pick was good enough to get him on the World Cup team, but is it good enough to keep him a starter for the Cure?
Edson Buddle: A+ The Cure's leading scorer has done everything that has been asked of him. Currently the front runner for the Bronze Boot.
Chad Barret: A- Free agent signee has delivered 4 goals in 4 starts.
Patrick Nyarko: A- Has started 9 of 10 games and is the Cure's leader in assists.
Fabian Espindola: B Supplied a few key goals, but his consistency is not what it should be.
Luis Angel Landin: B When he plays, he delivers. But he appears to be too injury prone.
Emilio Renteria: No grade--no starts.
Javier Morales: B Morales has played well, but he needs to deliver more points.
Dane Richards: C+ Acquired in a trade for Fred, Richards has added depth, but not points.
Robbie Rogers: C- 1 Goal and 0 assists is troubling numbers.
Bobby Convey: B+ Second in assists, but he needs to stop getting stupid yellow cards.
Roger Torres: B- Started out hot, but has lost his Union starting spot.
Brek Shea: B 2 goals in game 10 shows his potential.
Jimmy Nielsen: B 3 clean sheets for the horrid Wizards is pretty impressive.
Coach: A Lodes has hardly made a bad move (aside from the foolish Twellman draft choice). It may be just good luck; we will see during the second half of the season.
Team: A Each week, a new player seems to step up. Teamwork has made them number one.

Brek Point

Brek Shea has made a statement going into the World Cup break: "I deserve to start." His 2 goals helped pull out an exciting (and record breaking) victory. While it will be tough for the youngster to become a regular starter in the star-studded Cure lineup, more performances like Saturday's will make it impossible for Coach Lodes to keep him out of the starting lineup.

Game 10 Lineup

STARTERS: Nyarko, Barrett, Espindola, Shea, Convey, Morales, Richards, Rogers, Nielsen (GK)
SUBS: Landin, Torres, Renteria
RESERVES: Buddle, Findley

Real Relief

Another substandard performance had the St. Louis Cure reeling during its derby match against the Gateway Aints. Late in the match, the Cure were even being shutout by its bitter rival! Thankfully, Gateway was playing just as bad; for awhile the chance of a scoreless draw seemed quite possible. Then, Man of the Match winner Fabian Espindola, came to the rescue. His goal broke the deadlock; the Cure came very close to extending its lead as Espindola and Javier Morales set up a goal for RSL, but the official scorer did not credit the duo with assists. During the late game, that issue was resolved when the Cure's hottest player, Chad Barrett, scored and Bobby Convey offered another assist. Cure coach/GM Lodes, "Anytime we meet Gateway, its going to be a war. They push, shove, kick, elbow, punch and any other illegal tactics they can think of. The game was not the prettiest, but we will take it. Now we desperately want to finish the first half of the season undefeated. It would be quite an achievement."

Game 9 Lineup

STARTERS: Barrett, Landin, Espindola, Rogers, Nyarko, Richards, Morales, Convey, Nielsen (GK)
SUBS: 1. Shea 2. Renteria 3. Torres
RESERVES: Buddle, Findley

Game 9 Preview: Aint Nothin' To Worry About

A driving rainstorm ends a Cure practice prematurely. As the players sprint off the field, someone shouts "this is going to be us tomorrow. We are going to storm the Saints. They will drown." That seems to be the attitude of the whole squad. Supreme confidence as they prepare for the second leg of the Show Me Cup. Not surprising, coming from a team that is undefeated. Still, a reporter reminds them, Gateway did steal two points last time around. Coach/GM Kirk Lodes, "I believe our players gave the Aints too much respect during the first match. You have to remember we were the new guys in the league. Gateway were established and had a strong history; we were playing just our fourth match. Naturally, the guys played tentatively. Not this time around. The fellows have settled in and are anxious to attack and have no mercy. I expect to see our team play the best match of the year; goal scoring records could be shattered. The Aints will be so ashamed they won't want to show their face around St. Louis again."

Cure Re-sign Renteria

Two goals in two games. Cure coach Kirk Lodes says "I told you so!" Former Cure player Emilio Renteria has been resigned after finally getting some playing time for Columbus. Lodes, "We were as patient as we could be. We coveted Emilio's talent. But when the Crew refused to play him, we were forced to let him go. I'm glad they have come to their senses. Why they continue to star Lenhart over Renteria is beyond me." To make room for Renteria, the Cure reluctantly let go of young prospect Nelson Gonzalez.

Reserves Rally Cure to Another Win

Each week, a new storyline pops up for the St. Louis Cure. When meeting Montgomery County, the Cure's short-handed squad relied on many players who have spent most of their time this year on the bench. Would the reserves lead them to victory? Yes, yes, yes. The Cure only had the nine starters available for the match against the Monarchs, but that was all they needed. Chad Barrett gave the Cure a lead with a strong header; former Gateway striker Luis Landin offered up two sweet assists. Fabian Espindola, returning from injury, finished off the Cure scoring giving the team a commanding lead in the standings. Cure coach Kirk Lodes, "A great win, but we now must plan on getting over the jinx that is Gateway United. After that, we will be shooting for a new BSL record for wins in a season. We have a lot to play for."

Game 8 Preview & Lineup: The Sleeping Giant

In game 8, the Cure meets a team that may have switched their momentum. First, they broke a long losing streak. Second, they made the signing of the summer nabbing Thierry Henry. They will obviously come into the match pumped with a new sense of confidence. The key to the match, though, could be the Cure--and its missing players. The list of Cure names that won't be available is a daunting one for GM/Coach Kirk Lodes. Edson Buddle, Robbie Findley, Robbie Rogers, Roger Torres and Patrick Nyarko will be absent from the gameday roster. Lodes, "I prefer to think of it as an opportunity. Some players who haven't gotten playing time will get their chance this week. I expect them to be ready."

Cure Lineup
Starters: Nielsen (GK), Morales, Convey, Richards, Gonzalez, Shea, Espindola, Landin, Barrett
Subs: Nyarko, Torres, Findley
Scratch: Rogers, Buddle

Game 7 M.O.T.M.: Monkey Off of the Back

The struggling Robbie Findley picked a perfect time to score his first goal of the season. Preparing to head off to USMNT camp, Findley scored just minutes into the RSL/Houston game. The goal was enough to give the Cure their 6th victory of the season; it was also a super way to give Findley some confidence going into the National Team World Cup Camp. Findley is still a longshot to make the US team. But, form is critical. Like teammate Edson Buddle, if Findley gets hot while in camp, Bob Bradley may take him along to South Africa.

Far from Spectacular

The St. Louis Cure improved their record to a brilliant 6-0-1 with a far from impressive win against Union SC. Things started out fine; the Cure duo of Robbie Findley and Javier Morales helped the Cure sprint to a 3-0 lead Thursday. Then, for the most part, the Cure went silent. Except for a Patrick Nyarko assist, the Cure were shutout on Saturday. Fortunately, the Blues offense was just as inept. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "I told the team after Thursday to not get complacent. They didn't listen. A win is a win and we will take the three points, but I demand improvement." The Cure World Cup trio of Robbie Rogers, Robbie Findley and Edson Buddle now head off the US training camp while the rest of the Cure will look to improve on their lackluster performance.

Game 7 Preview & Lineup: Singing the Blues

The 2010 BSL season has been dominated by the St. Louis Cure. I don't think anyone would disagree with that statement. Another thing few people would dismiss is the one team that seems capable of challenging the Cure for the title is Union Southern California. That makes the Game 7 match of the Cure versus the Blues huge...for both teams. For the Cure, a win could widen their lead and give them some breathing space, something that will be very important in the coming weeks (the Cure loses Edson Buddle, Robbie Rogers and Robbie Findley to the US national team next week). For the Blues, a win would move them just a point behind the Cure. This match will have a "playoff" feel for sure. Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "looking up and down Union's lineup shows a deep team with loads of talent. We need to stop DeRosario and score against Ricketts, that goes without saying. But we must focus on creating chances ourselves. We have proved this year that if we play to are potential, no team can beat us."
Starting Lineup: Nielsen (GK), Convey, Torres, Morales, Rogers, Richards, Buddle, Findley, Nyarko
Substitutes: Barrett, Shea, Espindola
Scratched: Landin, Gonzalez

Game 6 M.O.T.M: A New Hero

Each week, it seems like the St. Louis Cure need someone to step up. And each week, it seems like someone new shows up to show the way to victory. Saturday, it was Chad Barrett. Grabbed as insurance off the waiver list, Barrett's role was to add depth to the forward line. But when substituted in Saturday, Barrett scored twice, leading the Cure to a big win over Burud Town. Barrett's performance was so impressive that he seems to be putting pressure on regular Cure starters (for instance, Robbie Findley, the number one draft choice has yet to hit the net this season). Don't be surprised if you soon see Barrett in the starting nine.

Cure Survive Thriller

Last week, St. Louis Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes was quoted saying "We are an attacking team. We score on you and if you can't keep up, you lose." Never has that been more true than in the Cure's week 6 contest, when the Cure outlasted the Stags to win 8-5, improving their record to 5-0-1. The Cure were slow starters this week, being shutout on Wednesday's portion of the schedule; they were behind 1-0 thanks to a Adam Christman assist. A Marko Perovic red card did give them a chance to put on Chad Barrett for his Cure debut. During Saturday's early games, the Cure built up a lead. Edson Buddle and Javier Morales put them ahead with an assist apiece, but the real star was Barrett, scoring twice to make it a fabulous start in a Cure uniform. Burud's Eddie Gaven and the Cure's Robbie Rogers traded goals, giving the Cure what seemed would be a impenetrable lead at 5-2. Bobby Convey then had a hat trick of assists, adding what it seemed would be insurance points. Instead, they wound up being the game winners, as Burud fought back and made the final score 8-5 thanks to points by Brian Mullan and Brad Davis. Lodes summarized his feelings, "Ultimately, the game came down to substitutes and team selection. We got two huge goals off the bench by Barrett, while the Stags left points off the field. A little luck never hurts. We've had some fortunate moments, but those thing tend to even out over a season. Words can't express how happy I am with squads performance so far this season." Lodes was alluding to the Stags Kai Kamara, Kheli Dube and Joey Gjersten, all unused subs. Had they been on the field, the result may have been quite different.

Game 6 Preview: Stags Party

What is that object hanging over the St. Louis Cure players heads? It's a bullseye. As they continue to defeat BSL opponents, their rivals focus all their energy on stopping them. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes: "Each week we face extra pressure. That's what happens when you are top of the table. We just focus on doing what we do best. We are an attacking team. We will score on you and if you can't keep up, then you will lose." No major lineup or formation changes are planned for the Week 6 matchup with Burud Town. The only concern will be the health of a few key players. Fabian Espindola was unavailable last week, Javier Morales did not play because of strep throat and Luis Landin was substituted after a rash challenge. Lodes is monitoring the condition of the three players; Robbie Rogers, Brek Shea and Chad Barrett are all candidates to take their places in the starting nine. As for the Stags, Lodes says the key will be to limit the production of Brad Davis, the KC duo Ryan Smith and Kei Kamara and the New England duo of Marko Perovic and Zach Schilawski. Match 6 begins tomorrow at 6 PM (Central Time).

Game 5 M.O.T.M.: Sir Edson

I'm out of adjectives. I'm out of things to say. Edson Buddle is just carrying this team on his shoulders. And it doesn't appear he will be stopped anytime soon. So, allow me to shift the subject. I've discussed this issue before and presented my side. Now, I will just say this: If Edson Buddle does not travel with the USMNT to South Africa, I'll personally crack Bob Bradley over his bald head. There. I've said it and I will say no more.

NEWS AND NOTES
The Cure have chosen Jimmy Nielsen as their number one, so they decided to release the season opening starting GK Matt Pickens. In his place, the team has resigned young FC Dallas prospect Brek Shea. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "You can never have enough depth. Brek adds another attacking option off our bench. We never wanted to let him go and are glad we were able to get him back."

Landin on Their Feet

After a poor game against rivals Gateway last week, the questions were asked. "Were the Cure just a fad?" "Are the Cure for real?" "Have teams found their weakness?" "Was the great start just a mirage?" Ask no more. The Cure responded last night with their best game of the year, downing a game Gold Coast team 7-4. The Cure grabbed two new players last week, and both contributed mightily to the win. New midfielder Dane Richards started the scoring with an assist, while the controversial signee Luis Landin offered a goal and assist in his first match with the Cure. Gold Coast fought back thanks to Dominic Oduro; Patrick Nyarko's assist made the score 4-2, but the Suns added two points to make the score 4-4 going into the night games. Then, it was Edson Buddle time. His game winning assist occurred within a minute, he added insurance with two more goals to add to his league leading total of nine. The Cure savored their big win, but Coach/GM Kirk Lodes cautioned them to not get carried away: "Last week was a big wake up call. The Suns tested us mightily, but we rose to the occasion. We will get to work Monday, for Wednesday brings a new match and new challenges."

Game 5 Lineup: Into the Fire

Wasting no time, St. Louis Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes will lineup two debutantes going into its match with Gold Coast. Free Agent Luis Angel Landin gets an immediate chance to salvage his MLS career with a starting spot, while former New York Greek Dane Richards will take over a winger spot in midfield. As usual, the team will be captained by Javier Morales, although fitness concerns still plague him. And also as expected, the Cure forward line will be led by Edson Buddle, Robbie Findley and Patrick Nyarko. Robbie Rogers, last week a healthy scratch, gets a chance to jump out of the doghouse after being listed as the number one sub. Fabian Espindola is this week's injury casuality and will not be in the lineup.

The complete lineup:
Buddle, Findley, Nyarko, Landin, Morales, Torres, Convey, Richards, Nielsen (GK)

Subs: Rogers, Barrett, Gonzalez

Scratched: Espindola, Pickens

Game 5 Preview: Staring At The Sun

In my preseason team reports, I was not very kind to the Gold Coast organization. Although the season is young, the Suns have been better than expected, earning a .500 record without their best player. Various transactions have strengthened the squad; they will not be an easy opponent. The Cure will face a Suns team that has injury concerns; Brian Ching and recent acquistions Edgar Jankauskas and Maykel Galindo will probably not be involved. What is left is a group of journeymen Forwards. On any given day, Dominic Oduro, Mike Magee, Roger Levesque or Justin Braun could light it up. The problem is they don't light it up consistently. As for the Cure, GM/Coach Kirk Lodes welcomes back Javier Morales and Robbie Findley to full fitness. The Cure's four RSL players could score early and often against the strife-ridden Toronto 11. The Cure will also look for Edson Buddle and Patrick Nyarko to continue their solid play. In the net, Jimmy Nielsen appears to have won the starting spot after a man of the match performance last week, but he now must go on the road to Houston, always a tough place to win. Lastly, Cure fans are curious if their two newcomers, Dane Richards and the notorious Luis Landin, will earn spots on the roster.

The Landin Project

Gateway United couldn't motivate him. Will going across town spark this obviously talented but temperamental star? St. Louis Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes thinks so, and also thinks he can light a fire under the Cure's newest striker, Luis Angel Landin. "The video posted with this article may be one of the most magical goals I have ever seen. It is the work of a superhero--and reminds us why MLS wanted Landin as a DP. This is the Luis Landin we seek to uncover. Landin came into the MLS season overweight, lazy and injured. Naturally he has stunk it up. But there is time for him to turn it around. And with Houston hobbled right now, he will probably get minutes. We are deep at forward so we feel we can take this gamble." To sign Landin, the Cure released Emilio Renteria, who had not played a game all year. Lodes, "I feel about Emilio. It's a mystery to me why Columbus has not played him more. But he is not doing us any good sitting on the bench." Landin, along with the other Cure new signee, Dane Richards, will be eligible for selection for Saturday's contest vs. the Suns.

Great Dane

In the continuing effort to create a squad that will compete for the 2010 BSL championship, the St. Louis Cure made its first trade of the season. The deal completed today will send Union midfielder Fred to the New York Greeks in exchange for the Jamaican Dane Richards. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "You can never be complacent. After noticing Richards was available, I quickly went to work organizing a deal. We regret parting with Fred, but the truth is he is playing deeper in the midfield for Philadelphia, which lessons his scoring chances. Dane, on the other hand, a player I've coveted for some time, is a dynamic winger; his stunning speed often turns him into a third striker. Which, naturally, means more scoring opportunities. I can't wait to see Dane in a Cure uniform." Richards will be available for Saturday's contest against the Suns.

Game 4 M.O.T.M.: Danish Dynamite

While filling out his official roster sheet for the game 4 match against Gateway United, St. Louis Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes admits he agonized over the keeper spot. "Matt Pickens was my original draft choice--and my number one. We signed Jimmy Nielsen because we felt he would be a solid backup; we never expected how spectacular he has been." Goalkeeping controversy? Maybe. Taking a chance, Lodes chose Nielsen to start, even though Nielsen faced the hottest MLS team, Los Angeles. Nielsen was up to the task, shutting down the powerful Galaxy offense and saving the Cure's unbeaten record, salvaging a tie thanks to his clean sheet. So, is Nielsen Lodes's new number 1? "I have no comment on that right now. I will say what I always have since we signed Jimmy: now we have two great keepers. The position is a huge strength for us."

A Fitting Result

The much anticipated grudge match between the St. Louis Cure and Gateway United ended up the way it probably was meant to end, a 2-2 draw. It was a rough, physical and defensive battle, with both teams blowing good opportunities to take the first leg of the Show Me Cup. The Cure were put in an immediate hole Thursday. Jeff Cunningham scored after a soft penalty was whistled; he added a second on an EVEN softer penalty later that night. The sluggish Gateway offense would be unable to pull away, offering the Cure a chance to take the match. But the Cure offense was just as anemic. Only Patrick Nyarko managed to get on the scoresheet, notching his third assist of the year. The real hero of the game was KC keeper Jimmy Nielsen, who kept his second clean sheet in as many games. Nielsen shut down his star teammate Edson Buddle, but in keeping Landon Donovan pointless, he earned the crucial point that kept the Cure unbeaten. Gateway still had the game offered up on a platter, as Fredy Ljundberg and Julian de Guzman played on Sunday. All it would take was one simnple point, but the two Saints players came up empty--leaving the two St. Louis teams to continue squabbling over who is best.

Game 4 Lineup: Road Warriors

Entering the biggest match of its history, St. Louis Cure Coach Kirk Lodes has presented his lineup for the derby against neighbors Gateway United. "It's going to be a tough week. Many of our key players will be playing on the road this week. I'm counting on them to respond and give the performances we expect." The Cure will welcome back Javier Morales to the starting lineup and hold their breath that his injury does not flare up. Bobby Convey keeps his spot in the starting lineup, while Robbie Findley just edges out Chad Barrett as a starting forward. Robbie Rogers remains a scratch; although Rogers has a bad ankle, Lodes mentioned he was not happy with the midfielder's form. The toughest decision for Lodes? "I went back and forth trying to decide who would get the nod in the net. That's what you get when you have two good keepers. In the end I chose Jimmy Nielsen, who will take on the red-hot Galaxy. I have been impressed with Kansas City's defense so far this year." The complete lineup: Nyarko, Findley, Espindola, Buddle, Morales, Convey, Torres, Fred, Nielsen (GK). Subs: Barrett, Gonzalez, Renteria. Scratched: Rogers, Pickens.

Game 4 Preview: When The Aints Come Marching

Two teams heading in opposite directions will meet for the first leg of the Show Me/Missouri Cup, one of the most intense derby's in American soccer. On one side, we have the Cure, unbeaten (and looking unbeatable) and in first place. On the other side, the miserable Aints, a team in turmoil. For Gateway, this matchup gives the team a chance to salvage what has so far been a wreck of a start to the season. The question is: do they have the talent to pull of the upset of the century? Landon Donovan has been playing like he wishes he was back in London. Jeff Cunningham is looking all of his 34 years and Julian de Guzman has been a colossal waste of money. Then there's the Luis Angel Landin experiment. Landin has provided a red card and not much else. Only one Gateway player has not humiliated himself, the gifted Marco Pappa. Still, one must not forget the thugs of Gateway defeated the Cure in a preseason friendly 2-1. The Cure players certainly remember. They had the bruises to remind them. So, the team will be well prepared for the Aints to do whatever it takes to win, lawful or not. The big question the Cure face: will Javier Morales be healthy enough to suit up? If not, the Cure have proved they can win without him. Superman Buddle has been unstoppable, while the rest of the team is in fine form. Roger Torres has been a brilliant addition, Bobby Convey is suddenly looking dangerous again and Patrick Nyarko is playing with outstanding confidence. Even new signing Chad Barrett has shown some spark. Additionally, the Cure have two top notch keepers in Matt Pickens and Jimmy Nielsen. With a roster filled with such firepower, the one thing left to ask: will the Aints even show up to the Show Me Cup? We will see starting on Thursday.

Game 3 M.O.T.M: The Buddle Supremacy

This is starting to get repititious. For the third straight week, Edson Buddle bags a brace. Buddle's performance speaks for itself. He is on fire and is quickly becoming the face of the St. Louis Cure. The big question is: will he get a fair chance with the Nats? Let us assume the last striker spot comes down to Brian Ching or Edson Buddle. Conventional wisdom would say Ching gets the nod. He's more experienced, he's been a consistent scorer in MLS, he's had regular stints with the National Team and he was included in the 2006 World Cup squad. Ching is the safe bet and knowning Bob Bradley's selection history, he will make the team (if healthy). That's sad because Buddle deserves it. When he is on, Buddle is so much more explosive than Ching. And Buddle's form is red hot--versus Ching which is cold as ice (even before his most recent injury, he hasn't exactly been lighting up the scoreboard). Don't get me wrong, Ching is a decent MLS forward. But facing international competition, we need the speed, athleticism and skill an Edson Buddle provides. So if Bob is out there, I plead with him to do the right thing for once. Take Edson. Edson is playing with such confidence; and can just imagine a frontline of Buddle and Altidore. The potential is unlimited. If only conservative Bob would risk it--the payoff could be huge.

Dream Start

As the 2010 BSL season began, no one could have expected a beginning the Cure franchise has experienced. After their 5-1 pounding of the Greeks this past weekend, the team stands at 3-0, scoring 16 goals and only allowing 5. Amazing numbers. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "I'm shocked really. I knew we had a capable side. But to dominate the way we have...no one could have predicted it. I'm just glad the players are not letting their success go to their heads. Their work ethic has been splendid. It's a pleasure to coach these guys." The Greeks kept things close before the Cure (and Edson "World Cup Bound" Buddle) ran away with a commanding win. Roger Torres continued his fine play and put the Cure up 1-0 with another delightful assist (his second of the season). But the Cure offense then stuttered, allowing the Greeks to tie the game with a Lindpere assist. Patrick Nyarko (the Cure's unsung hero) and Bobby Convey (making the most of his return to the starting lineup) provided assists that gave the Cure a 3-1 lead, and then Buddle did his thing, putting the match out of reach with two more goals. The Cure celebration after the game was subdued. Up next is Gateway United. The whole team had serious looks on their faces as they left the locker room. They know they still have something to prove, to at least one team. Gateway United: beware. The Cure players plan to massacre their oppenents; no pity will be shown.

Cure Announce Game 3 Squad; Say Farewell To Twellman

What coach/GM Kirk Lodes worried most about has reared its ugly head. Injuries. With the status of some key players unclear, Lodes will juggle his lineup for Week 3. "We can't feel sorry for ourselves. You have to plan for these things. Besides, all teams face these issues. Developing a deep squad is so crucial." The most notable change has Javier Morales languishing on the bench. Lodes, "We just felt it would be better to leave him out. Hopefully he will see some minutes as a sub." The staring nine: Findley, Buddle, Nyarko, Espindola, Gonzalez, Fred, Convey, Torres, Pickens (GK). On the subs bench: 1. Morales. 2. Barrett. 3. Renteria. Scratch: Rogers, Nielsen (GK). New signing Chad Barrett hopes to see some action against his old team. Signed on Wednesday, the Cure was forced to release St. Louisan Taylor Twellman. "I feel bad for Taylor. We really didn't want to let him go, but he wasn't progressing as quickly as we had hoped. We needed a good striker and one became available, so he had to jump on it. We wish Taylor the best luck in his rehab; he will land on his feet. When healthy, we will be a great addition to a team...who knows, maybe we will be that lucky team." Barrett has had a slow start to the season, being hampered by injuries. Now nearing full fitness, he hopes to spark the struggling Toronto team and give the Cure a boost as well.

Week 3 Game Preview: Greek Formula

For the first time in the 2010 BSL season, the depth of the St. Louis Cure will be tested. When the Cure battles the New York Greeks, midfielder Rob Rogers will not be available (it is an off week for the Crew; in addition Rogers has an injury that would probably keep him on the sidelines anyway). Manager Kirk Lodes always faces a mini injury crisis; both Patrick Nyarko and Javier Morales are listed as questionable for the contest. The potential loss of three key players means others will have to step up. Roger Torres, Fred and Jimmy Nielsen looked good in their season debuts last week and will be counted on to keep producing. The injuries could give Bobby Convey a shot to return the starting lineup (Convey has looked impressive in training) while newcomer Neslon Gonzalez may be inserted into the lineup as well. In addition, the Cure will rely even more heavily on mainstays Edson Buddle and Robbie Findley. As for the winless Greeks, Coach Lodes emphasized they must not be taken lightly. "With a little luck, the Greeks could be sitting at 2-0 just like us. Don't let their record fool you." While the Cure's depth will be tested, the Greeks big strength is their depth. Finding the right starting formula is what they must work on (last week, leaving Alejandro Moreno on the bench cost them dearly). The Greeks have been active in the transfer market, landing some good free agent signings and building a deep squad. Now they must assemble the best 9 to put on the field. Perhaps that is the problem. The team has no automatic starters (nor do they really have any true benchwarmers). The two Moreno's (Alejandro and Jaime), Josh Wolff, Dane Richards, Joel Lindpere and Nick Rimando will probably be in the starting lineup. Choosing the last three will be tricky. Recent signings Christian Castillo, Claudio Lopez and Khano Smith haven't produced...yet. Chad Barrett is returning from injury while Andy Williams and Alan Gordon are not starting with their respective teams. In other news, St. Louis Cure manager Lodes revealed he has been actively pursuing last minute signings before the transfer window closes, but has not made been able to finalize any deals as of right now.

Game 2 M.O.T.M: Buddle of Joy

Buddle Double

For a few minutes Saturday, the St. Louis Cure appeared to be in trouble. Superstar Javier Morales left the match early because of injury. Who would step up and provide the leadership and firepower? Enter Edson Buddle. Following Morales' brilliant performance in Week 1, it would be understandable if one had overlooked Buddle. No longer. Buddle took the game by the scruff of its neck, and put in a performance than was equal, if not better, than Morales' thrilling work two weeks earlier. And Buddle's second goal, a volley of tremendous skill, should be added to Morales' two goals in Week 1 as "Goal of the Year" candidates. Coach Lodes was gushing in his praise, "Edson is a man on a mission. He has always had the skill. Now he has the motivation. He is on fire. And dare I say, with the USA forward pool in such a precarious position, Bob Bradley needs to be watching." Exaggeration? Not so fast. It is commonly accepted that at least 1 MLS striker will be traveling to South Africa. Brian Ching's injury has put his spot in jeopardy. The other MLS forwards under consideration: Robbie Findley, Jeff Cunningham and Conor Casey; what do they have that Buddle doesn't? Buddle is certainly the player with the finest form of the five. Plus, he offers something the others don't. Ching and Casey are known for their size and strength, but quickness and technical skill they glaringly lack. Cunningham and Findley are speedsters, but can be easily knocked off the ball. Buddle, on the other hand, has world class speed, size and strength. Take a look at his goals on the posted video and tell me why he shouldn't be in the running. Buddle has only had brief nibbles at National Team work in the past, possibly because of a lack of the work ethic required. But no one can question his effort in recent weeks. Edson Buddle in South Africa? If there is any justice in the world, that notion will not seem so crazy after all.

Cure Claim Another Scalp

Buddle's Greatest Hits

Week 1: 2009 Honors Trophy Award winner. Week 2: 2009 BSL Champion. Another week, another member of BSL royalty defeated. Proving their debut performance was not a fluke, the St. Louis Cure took over sole position atop the BSL standings after pasting Montgomery County 6-2. While it would be easy to gloat, Cure Manager Kirk Lodes remained cautious, "It's a great step. But only a step. If we are serious about taking the title, we will continue to work hard and improve rather than rest on our laurels. I'm eager to see how the team responds." The early season showdown began with recent signee Roger Torres scoring on his debut with a wondrous cross and assist. Edson Buddle continued his hot streak by scoring twice before Chicago Fire teammates Patrick Nyarko and Collins John traded assists. Guillermo Schelotto made the score 4-2 with a goal from a missed PK, but that was as close as the Monarchs would get. Jimmy Nielsen posted a shutout during his first performance for the Cure, defeating his Cure teammate Matt Pickens. Then the lone member of the "RSL 3" to score, Robbie Findley, notched an assist to finish the scoring. Lodes, "There is no time to rest. We face New York in just a few days. We must not let off the acclerator."

*NEWS/NOTES
The Cure victory did not come without a price. Key midfielder Javier Morales was replaced after suffering a groin injury that was termed as "possibly serious." GM Lodes quickly went to work finding a potential replacement for Morales should the injury result in a long layoff, signing fellow RSL/Argentine Nelson Gonzalez. To make room for Gonzales, the Cure released Brek Shea. Lodes, "Shea's problem was 1. he is a member of FC Dallas 2. he is a member of FC Dallas. And 3. He is a member of FC Dallas. I mean, they take one of their lone young offensive talents, and decide to stick in central defense? That's lunacy. That's FC Dallas." Lodes also mentioned the team is still in the market for an experienced striker, just as insurance.

Cure sets lineup for Game 2

Kirk Lodes has announced his roster for the upcoming match against the Monarchs. The big surprise comes from the fact that new signing Jimmy Nielsen has won the starting keeping job over Matt Pickens (despite the fact Pickens had a clean sheet in Week 1). The other change brings impressive 18 year old Roger Torres into the lineup taking over for Bobby Convey, who becomes the first substitute. The rest of the lineup will be anchored by the RSL three, Javier Morales, Robbie Findley and Fabian Espindola.

The complete lineup: Findley, Buddle, Morales, Nyarko, Espindola, Rogers, Torres, Fred, Nielsen(GK)

Subs: Convey, Renteria, Shea

Scratched: Twellman, Pickens

Week 2 Preview: Cure Take On Champs

As if a matchup against the defending champions wasn't exciting enough, the St. Louis Cure made the upcoming meeting all the more intriguing after a thrilling week one victory. The 5-2 win over C.D. Gunners lifted the Cure to the top of the BSL Power Rankings, but the Monarchs, ranked number two in the rankings, lie in wait. Can an early season game be more electric? If the Cure plan on making a run for the title in 2010, a win against Montgomery would certainly boost their stock. But how do they go about toppling the kings of BSL? Cure Coach Kirk Lodes is convinced his squad must perform to their highest standard: "The Monarchs will not beat themselves. They are going to score. That is understood. Hoping they have an off week is not an effective strategy. The Cure must attack, attack relentlessly, and hope at the end of 90 minutes they have scored more than the champs. It's the only realistic way I can see us winning." Yes, the Monarchs are going to light up the scoreboard. Omar Cummings and Guillemro Schelotto have been on fire during the opening weeks of the season. Macoumba Kandji is leading a recharged Red Bull team. Cornell Glen and David Ferreira were the lone bright spots for their respective teams during week 1. And Kasey Keller is a clean sheet machine. After a marvelous week 1 win over Union, the Monarchs did not stand pat. The signing of two foreigners (Sunil Chetri and Juninho) further bolster an already intimidating squad. Not only will team leaders Javier Morales, Edson Buddle and Robbie Findley must be on top of their game, but players like Robbie Rogers and Bobby Convey, who both looked woeful during week 1, must contribute. If they don't, a Monarch rout would not be out of the question. Will the pressure cause the Cure to crack or make them stronger? Tune in Saturday to find out.

Cure Add Goalkeeping Depth

During the bye week, St. Louis Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes refused to be complacent after the 5-2 drubbing the squad gave the Gunners in Week 1. "One of my main concerns has been the lack of a quality backup keeper. We have been searching for the right man and we have found him in Dane Jimmy Nielsen." Nielsen is a veteran of the Danish League, having played 388 league matches during his career. "Nielsen is going to come in and immediately compete for the number one spot. Competition is never a bad thing." To make room for Nielsen, the team announced it has released DC midfielder Rodney Wallace. Lodes, "We are not done making deals. We have one more player in our sights who we hope to bring in on trial." Lodes refused to name that person. In other news, the Cure got a pair of goals from Edson Buddle and one from Javier Morales during a closed door scrimmage.

Game 1 M.O.T.M: Javi

Each week during the 2010 season, the St. Louis Cure will announce its Man of the Match. The weekly M.O.T.M awards will be used to decide who wins the prestigious Bronze Boot at the conclusion of the season. The first winner of the 2010 season is unanimous. Javier Morales, Real Salt Lake's midfield playmaker, takes home the award thanks to his splendid brace. With the Cure down 2-1, Morales scored his first goal with a 35 yard rocket. He managed to top that wonder strike with a brilliantly hit free kick that landed in the top corner of the net. In between his two goals, Morales fed Fabian Espindola for the game winning goal. GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "That free kick was world class. Morales' goals were the work of a master. Javier Morales is a man on a mission and opposing BSL teams should be very nervous."

Blast Off! Cure Romp To Debut Victory

The players had those first game jitters--for a short time, at least. After finding themselves stuck in a 2-0 hole, the St. Louis Cure ran off 5 unanswered points to defeat the impressive C.D. Gunners, earning an jaw-dropping upset in its first ever BSL match.

As the match began, the Cure appeared to be overmatched against the Gunners. Fredy Montero put on quite a show, and the Cure were powerless to stop him. His goal and assist gave the favored Gunners an early lead. Luckily, the Cure players did not panic. Matt Pickens provided a clean sheet to cut the lead in half, and then the Javier Morales show began. Morales took over the match, scoring a wonderful long range shot, assisting on Fabian Espindola's sweet lob (although officially he wasn't credited with the assist, his probing pass set Espindola free), and then besting even himself with an even better freekick. After Morales went on his scoring spree, the Cure had opened up a 4-2 lead. The stunned Gunners never recovered. Edson Buddle added an insurance goal late, the give the Cure a sparkling opening to the BSL season.

Coach/GM Kirk Lodes, "I'm proud of the boys. I've been saying all along that if they play up to their potential, we will be a tough team to beat. Javier Morales showed what a leader his is. We were down on the scoreboard, but he took the game by the scruff of its neck and the rest of the squad responded. We will enjoy the results, but we know that this is just a start. Things will not get any easier. We face the champions and undisputed best team of BSL, Montgomery next. Come Monday, we will need to put the past behind us and start working again. We must focus on the task ahead, one match at a time."

Cure Ready To Kick Off

In a little over one hour, the St. Louis Cure will begin their inaugral BSL season. Coach/GM Kirk Lodes was reserved but optimistic when interviewed just hours before the first kick. "The players are ready. They've put in the work and if they relax and play like they are capable, the result will come." The Cure's first opponent is as tough as they come. C.D. Gunners is stocked with offensive threats, and they will bring the game to the Cure, starting 6 strikers. Lodes will apparently look to counter attack on the heavily favored Gunners, as he will field a more balanced look of four midfielders and four forwards. There are no huge surprises from the lineup Lodes will field, but there were some interesting issues that were resolved. Patrick Nyarko beat out Emilio Renteria for the last forward starting position. Fabian Espindola, Nyarko and Renteria staged a fierce competition during preseason for a starting position. While Espindola secure his spot with a goal during a preseason scrimmage, the battle between Nyarko and Renteria lasted until the final preaseason practice. Renteria will be the first eligible substitute available for the Cure. The other surprise was the addition of 18 year old Roger Torres to the substitutes bench. The young midfielder beat out Rodney Wallace for the final position on the gameday roster. St. Louisan Taylor Twellman will be unavailable as he continues rehabilitation from a concussion suffered last year.

Cure Announce Starting 9

Kirk Lodes, GM/Coach of the ST. Louis Cure, announced his first team for the season opening match against the Gunners. The lineup is as follows:

Starters
Pickens (G), Findley, Morales, Buddle, Rogers, Fred, Convey, Espindola, Nyarko

Substitutes Bench
1. Renteria, 2. Shea, 3. Torres

Scratched
Twellman, Wallace

Cure Lose the Battle; Winning the War Seems Likely

The St. Louis Cure lost to crosstown rivals Gateway United in a preseason friendly. Robbie Findley scored the lone Cure goal, but the Cure ended up just short, despite dominating most of the play. Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "Obviously, the play was a bit ragged. The guys are still getting into playing shape. But despite the loss, I saw many things which make me quite optimistic. Gateway is a great team and we knew that coming into the match. But we held our own; we proved we can play with the best of them." In a closed-door scrimmage held after the preseason match, Robbie Findley added another tally to his preseason mark. In addition, Javier Morales had a goal and assist and fellow Argentine Fabian Espindola chipped in his first goal in the preseason.

Cure Pick Up Young Colombian, Waive Bunbury

St. Louis Cure GM/Coach announced today his team has picked up 18 year old Colombian midfielder Roger Torres. To make room for Torres on their roster, the Cure waived forward Teal Bunbury. Lodes, "When Torres became available, we knew we needed to jump on it. He is an extremely talented playmaker--the type of player Philadelphia sorely needs. It is difficult to let go of a talent like Teal Bunbury, but we think Torres is a little bit more seasoned and has a better chance of seeing playing time this season." Torres will be unavailable for the preseason tuneup versus Gateway United, but Lodes hopes he will be ready for the start of the regular season.

Cure, Gateway Smoke Peace Pipe, Announce Friendly

In a preview of the first ever Show Me Cup, the two St. Louis teams in BSL have agreed to meet for a preseason (not so) friendly. The two heated rivals agreed to set their differences aside for the moment in order to get some actual game experience while the two clubs continue preparing for the 2010 season. Even so, BSL officials will be present and have promised to come down hard on any players who show excessive force during the contest. Since the Cure are above such things, the BSL Commissioner was apparently referring to Gateway's thugs when he commented "we will tolerate no unsportsmanlike shenanigans." GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "I am nervous. We know Gateway's reputation. They will do anything to win--even if that means they need to break a few legs. But I guess we will have to get used to their dirty ways sooner or later. Hopefully the ref will stay on top of things and deliver justice swiftly." Lodes has announced his lineup for the match against the Gateway hooligans:

Starters
Matt Pickens
Edson Buddle
Patrick Nyarko
Emilio Renteria
Fred
Robbie Rogers
Bobby Convey
Robbie Findley
Brek Shea

Substitutes
Rodney Wallace
Fabian Espindola
Javier Morales

Unavailable
Taylor Twellman
Roger Torres

Season Preview: Sinners or Saints?

Saving the least for last, we look at a team that gives our fair city a bad name, the hated Gateway United. It is against my religion to say good things about them, so I guess I'll be heading to confession after I type this. The truth is, as much as it hurts to admit it, Gateway has compiled a formidable roster--one that compete with any team in the league. It is my theory that the Saints got some inside help from the man upstairs. Take Landon Donovan. Everton wanted him bad and had they landed him, Gateway would have been devestated. Luck is on the Saints side; Landon stays. Even without Landon, the team boasts legitimate talent: I've always believed Jeff Cunningham is one of MLS's top strikers (when he feels like it) and Freddy Ljundberg is one of MLS's best midfield acquistions--a top European NOT past his prime. While those three are the chore of Gateway's team, don't be surprised if some of his other players outscore them. Marco Pappa may be an outside contender for MVP (he will takeover playmaking for Blanco and will do so in style). Maykel Galindo is healthy again and MLS defenses are scared to death. And given the Saints luck (and help from God), I wouldn't be shocked if Luis Angel Landin wins the scoring race. Their goalkeepers could be better (Frei's Toronto leaks goals and Busch's lack of size can be an issue), but that won't matter. Gateway will be in the playoffs. The first ever Show Me Cup is game 4 of the BSL season. So here are my predictions for the upcoming BSL season: 1. Union Southern California 2. Gateway United 3. Montgomery County 4. St. Louis Cure SC 5. Capital District Gunners 6. New York Greeks 7. Burud Town 8. Gold Coast

Season Preview: Sunburn

Gold Coast is a lock for at least one title this year: Team with the best logo. Actual cups, though, may be out of their reach. Aside from Goalkeeping (the Suns have two of the best in Pat Onstad and Joe Cannon), they have only one really dependable scorer: Brian Ching. With Ching probably joining the US World Cup team, the Suns may be in trouble. The problem Gold Coast has, in my humble opinion, is they have too many players who are deployed in defensive roles. Kyle Beckerman, Dax McCarty, Osvaldo Alonso and Jack Jewsbury can score with the best of them. Too bad they play with their club teams in a defensive midfield role. Two other key players for Gold Coast are huge uncertainties in 2010: Dave Van Den Bergh may leave MLS, while Ante Razov hasn't played in years (so it seems, at least). So what does that leave the Suns? Arturo Alvarez has star written all over him, but will he ever back it up with goals? Mike Magee was once a highly touted US Youth International who has never panned out. Roger Levesque has scored a lot...in USL (and hardly ever in MLS). Steven Lenhart is a super sub--who will probably remain just that--a sub (although last nights performance--two goals--is encouraging). I wish Gold Coast the best of luck because I think they will need it. Still, it should comfort the Suns to know that in sports betting, I am usually right about 1/4 of the time. In other words, I rarely know what I'm talking about. The Suns meet the Cure in Game 5.

Season Preview: King of the Hill

Be afraid. Be very afraid. When Montgomery County chose Collins John in the BSL draft, a move most BSL teams probably contemplated but didn't act quick enough on, they served notice. Any team wanting to take the BSL title must go through the defending champs. John, a former EPL forward who is still in his prime, is a risk because he is only on trial with Chicago and has not signed a contract, but a risk worth taking. Is it any surprise the champs were the first to jump on this opportunity? As a DP, Omar Cummings must not regress, but the choices of Nate Jaqua and Guillermo Barros Schelotto are fundamentally sound. As is David Ferreira; South Americans normally are slow adjusting to MLS, Ferreira went through his adjustment period last year and should be raring to go. "Senior Citizen" Kasey Keller plays like a 30-year old--even if he suddenly starts to show his age, the Monarchs have it covered with Troy Perkins. While Montgomery has no other "real" stars on its team, they have a group of guys who will add nicely to the Monarchs point totals. Eduardo, Nkufo (another slick pickup made under the radar), Glen, Kandji and Mathis can all be counted on for acceptable, if not jaw-dropping, numbers. The most complete team in BSL first meets the Cure in Game 2.

Season Preview: Mystery Club

The most secretive club of the Bigtime Soccer League is Burud Town. Whether this is by design or not, I'm not really sure. Is keeping their roster plans and season goals part of their strategy, an attempt to keep the other clubs off-balance? Choosing a Keeper, Will Hesmer, as a second round draft pick, certainly bucks the trends of most BSL clubs. Likewise, no other BSL team wanted to make the gutsy (or foolish--you be the judge) move to draft David Beckham. High stakes gambler, Burud Town is going for broke. They are either going to fight for the title, or plunge to the bottom. On the side of a championship run, I present Brad Davis, their number one draft pick. Davis was handed the keys to Houston's midfield last year and drove defenses crazy. The loss of Stuart Holden and Ricardo Clark means Houston will depend even more on Davis, who should be up to the task. Another player taking over his club's playmaking is Santino Quaranta. Historically inconsistent, Burud chose Quaranta with a late pick, a move that could be very lucrative. Burud's forward line is a collection of interesting, yet potentially catastrophic, choices. Danny Allsop, Maicon Dos Santos, Cam Weaver, Kai Kamara, Kehli Dube and Ali Gerba will make or break Burud's season. The chance of one of them becoming a top 10 scorer is likely. Unfortunately, so is the chance of having a major bust or two. Dube came on strong late last season; Dos Santos has had preseason injuries; Allsop is new to MLS; Kamara has had his moments; Gerba has scored in lower division English leagues; Weaver has never shown much (in MLS). I'm afraid the talent is just not there for Burud Town to make a serious run, but I've been wrong before (often). And who knows just what their Svengali owner will conjure up. The Cure's first Burud test is Game 6.

Cure Add Youth to Reserve Team

With the new reserve rule in place, St. Louis Cure GM/Coach went to work evaluating the remaining talent available. In the end, he decided to pick two exciting, yet unexperienced players to the squad. Brek Shea is only 19, but he got valuable minutes last season with FCD. It is highly likely he can start producing at a regular pace in 2010. Kansas City's 1st round superdraft pick Teal Bunbury, number 4 overall, rounds out the Cure lineup. GM/Coach Lodes, "Both players will immediately join the reserve squad. I'm confident that they will work their way into the lineup during the season. It's possible that one, maybe both, could see significant time in the starting lineup this year."

Season Preview: Preseason Faves?

A quick glance at the Union SC roster and an opponent gets the shakes. I don't really see a weakness; trust me I have looked for one. Union went preseason attempting to rebuild the squad and they have done so nicely. They will get nice veteran leadership with Dwayne DeRosario and Conor Casey, two players who are sure to score plenty. Sasha Klejstan had a down 2009 season, but I think that was an exception, not the rule. The US international is just too talented to have two down years in a row. And Shalrie Joseph maybe the most consistent player in the league. To add insult to injury, Union has the man I think is the best keeper in the league, Jamaican Donovan Ricketts. As for the rest of the roster, a cynical man would point out some deficiencies. Geoff Cameron may be deployed in Houston's central defense, which could hurt his scoring contributions. Likewises, Brad Evans recently played right back for the USA national team...a sign of things to come? Steve Zakuani will bloom--if Seattle gives him enough playing time. Lillingston, Le Toux and Pablo Campos need a lot of things to fall in place to find themselves in the starting lineup for their respective teams. No matter. Union SC has enough quality to overcome these issues. Union will likely make the playoffs this season. The Cure meets Union for the first time in Game 7.

Season Preview: Greek to Me

In our second preview, we profile one of the four new teams in BSL, the New York Greeks. The Greeks made all BSL owners take notice, with their somewhat shocking and risky choice of Josh Wolff in the first round. Don’t get me wrong, Wolff is a decent player, but he hasn’t had “first round”-type numbers in quite a long time. Do the Greeks know something the rest of us don’t? The Greeks are a blue collar team. Players like Alejandro Moreno, Chad Barrett and Alan Gordon aren’t flashy, but they get results. Still, I’d worry about someone like Gordon, who seems to miss easy chances with alarming regularity. No need to worry about all time MLS point leader Jaime Moreno, even if most of his goals these days come from PK’s. The Greeks took two goalkeepers in the draft, two good ones in Nick Rimando and Matt Reis, so they are safe in that department. They will certainly need Dane Richards, Mehdi Ballouchy, Attiba Harris or Emmanuel Ekpo to step up. All four are capable, but will they? If they do, the Greeks could end up in the 1st half of the table. If not, they could end bottom of the table.

Cure Announce Its MVP Will Earn the "Bronze Boot"

At the conclusion of its debut season in BSL, the St. Louis Cure will pick its Most Valuable Player. That player will earn the "Bronze Boot." The award is in memory of the historic Bronze Boot Match, one of St. Louis soccer history's best traditions. The Bronze Boot Match used to be played annually, pitting St. Louis University vs. Southern Illinois-Edwardsville. At its peak, the Bronze Boot Match used to draw huge crowds. The rivalry eventually was moved to Busch Stadium to allow for the massive throngs of fans who would attend the match. When SIU-Edwardsville dropped from Division 1 to Division 2, the annual match was abandoned. Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes, "One of my fondest soccer memories is attending the Bronze Boot Match at Busch Stadium as a kid. I think its important to acknowledge and pay homage to the rich history of soccer in St. Louis. By awarding our Most Valuable Player the "Bronze Boot", the Cure hopes to link St. Louis' soccer roots with the current team."

Commish Announces New Roster Rule

A special, two round draft, is now under way in the Bigtime Soccer League. The draft is a result of a new provision that was proposed, voted on and passed by league members. The new rule allows each team two additional roster spots. Although gameday rosters will still consist of 12 players, the new provision allows for each team to keep two rosters spots open to account for injuries, international callups, bye-weeks etc. Cure GM/Coach Kirk Lodes is excited about the new rule. "With the old rule, a team that has a player injured or called up to a National Team would be penalized if they wanted to keep them on their roster (due to the rule change that makes it possible for substitutes goals/assists counting in a game this year). Now it gives coaches a little flexibility when creating their lineups. For instance, the Cure has three key players who play for Real Salt Lake. During a bye-week for RSL, the Cure would not be able to have any substitutes on their bench. With the new rule, such an event will not take place. I think it makes the league fairer for all. I really can't wait to get this season started!"

Season Preview: Gunning for an Upset

The 4 returning BSL teams must be considered the favorites for the coming season. With a year playing in BSL under their belts, they have an automatic advantage. More importantly, though, they were the best BSL had to offer last year. Their owners must know what they are doing and are certainly knowledgeable soccer fans. Our season preview begins with one of these teams, the Cure’s fist ever BSL opponent, CD Gunners. Will the Cure’s players be nervous before their first ever game? After taking a quick glance at the Gunners roster, they should be. First off, their two designated players are top notch. Fredy Montero was the surprise of last season and has the talent to lead MLS in scoring. Juan Pablo Angel drifted through a pretty miserable 2009. With the Red Bull Arena set to open, the franchise will be given a huge lift. So will Angel, escaping that dreadful turf. If surrounded with better talent, Angel should return to the top of the scoring charts. In addition to their DP’s, the Gunners have three other big names at forward. The only thing that will stop Brian McBride is old age--I just don't think its time for him to hang up his boots yet. Ryan Johnson is a beast. The confidence he gained from an excellent 2009 might lift him to the next level in 2010. Sergio Herrera may be the Fredy Montero of 2010. As a fifth rounder, and with Schelotto setting him up, he may be the Gunners shrewdest move of all. In goal, veteran Zach Thornton will get his share of shutouts. If the Gunners have a weakness, I’d say it’s their depth. None of their remaining players are proven MLS scorers. But with the stars they do have, they probably don’t need much depth. Still, an injury or two may be too much to overcome. Either way, I expect the Gunners to be in the playoff hunt. While they will be the favorites, I hope they overlook the Cure so we may be able to sneak a season opening win.