Just watched the segment on mlsnet.com, out of curiosity, because they were talking about the "Newcomers Award" that is new this year. They mentioned Toja in passing, but Greg Lalas (I think it was . . .) chose Pablo as one of his two choices, along with Emilio Luciano.
Pablo has an advantage over Toja because, whether rightly or not, everyone is now expecting Toja to score a goal per game. that's never been the expectation for The Machete, so as long as he plays full minutes and makes some important plays he's doing well. The Lizard King unexpectedly became an offensive phenomenon and had such a hot streak for a while there that he's going to have to end the season on a high note and answer the "what have you done for me lately?" question if he wants a shot at that award. he may be more the "total footballer" type than Ricchetti, but paradoxically that can mean that he's less likely to be noticed for excelling in any one aspect of his game. but that's not what this award is theoretically about, so who knows?
Agreed! Toja had the fortune/misfortune to make such a big "splash" right from the start. Maybe a little moderation is good, in the long run. He even said it himself in the Blog interview that he now has to try to meet these higher expectations -- that even when he plays a "good" game, if he's not doing spectacular plays, then people (the press) say he's had a "bad game." The ankle injury has certainly slowed him down. Nevermind the awards . . .I just hope he gets healthy and fit (and isn't pushing it too much)! And I am also happy to see Ricchetti being recognized. He seems like such a good leader on the field (from what I can tell from the stands and on TV), and the team definitely struggles when he's not playing. I know people have also commented that he doesn't always play well, but then . . . who is perfect all the time? I was watching the Brazil/Mexico game last night, and even Kaka' gave the ball away several times.
Ricchetti will never be the mass public choice because what he does is so much harder to see. If the award is media and coaches only he will have a better shot frankly.
The Lizard King would win, except he missed too many games at a critical time and is off form as he gets back into condition. The Machete (aka the Silent Pickpocket) has been slightly off due to fatigue, but it's nice to know he's even being considered. He may very well be the most underrated, overlooked quality player in MLS. The Galaxy would kill to have him on their team (and no, they can't have him!). ...And I still want to know -- where can I get a Toja wig, seriously? I can't believe FC Dallas isn't selling them at the games -- they'd sell a ton of them.
Agreed with everything you said. I love watching Ricchetti just snag the ball from an opponent's foot. And LA can go . . . Anyway, did you know that Oct. 11th is TOJA WIG NIGHT (according to the back of the Toronto game program)?? What I want to know is . . . does that mean they are giving out wigs, or you're supposed to wear a wig to the game? P.S. Maybe they have wigs at Party City?