FWIW, one of the commentators on the Extra Time podcast (MLSsoccer.com) referred to Chris Rolfe as "top of the league as far as creative attacking players go." They also think he should be on the national team.
While I'm not particularly for older guys getting their first caps (or first in a while in Rolfe's case), I'd rather have him there than Wondo. I don't think it's just cause I'm a DCU fan. I think he injects something a little different, whereas Wondo doesn't really do that. It's hard to say exactly what... but put Rolfe on the field with Dempsey, Altidore, Bradley, etc... and he might be able to unlock some defenses. He somehow just always gets to the right spot and finishes or assists, or makes the tackle. Just looked it up because I was curious. Rolfe is 11 days older. But at least he has a magic headband.
Opare Geiger Arrieta And If I were Opare, I'd be one pissed hombre at how little purposeful possession the team had. He had to work way too hard, and the non-centerbacks did way too little.
Geiger didn't do us any favors or screw us. Those were two lock red cards if you ask me. Neither were clear from the far away camera angle, but were clear when we saw a closer replay. Some NE fans will probably say the Tierney call was a yellow, but the only argument for that would be if Geiger hadn't seen it clearly.
Not only is Opare a consensus pick this week, he seems to be a consensus pick every week. I like that the LA Galaxy has become a farm team for DC United.
I'm not sure it says as much positive about Opare as it does negative on the DCU midfield and forwards when he has to keep being the best player on the field. Poor guy can't just be a good solid defender, he has to be the team MVP every week. Lotta pressure
Espindola - what a game changer for us when he's on the field Arrieta - finishing! Doyle - IT WENT IN THE NET! (also some good play in midfield)