MLS Next Pro has no ties - well, they have ties but they then go to PKs to determine who gets 2 points, and who none (no sharing of the points). Last week Monarchs scored a tying goal in stoppage while playing 9 v 11, then won the shootout.
By my count, there were 8 guys with MLS/HG contracts that played in the game yesterday. They still couldn't win at home. It's a one-off, but maybe a sign that those guys shouldn't be getting MLS minutes? https://www.rsl.com/monarchs/news/real-monarchs-slump-to-narrow-lafc-shootout-defeat
Sounds like Vera could be making an appearance this weekend after playing for the Monarchs. https://www.rsl.com/news/real-monar...a-late-penalty-in-rocky-mountain-cup-showdown I still don't understand how an infusion of first team talent doesn't result in a win*. *I do, it just means many of those guys aren't good enough for the first team (and that's crazy, sad, depressing, etc.)
I’ve struggled through monarch games. They’re glorified friendlies when first team players are out there. Rarely, if ever, do you see a player actually giving anything above 80% if they’re on a first team contract. Which isn’t entirely wrong, it just makes the game itself really hard to enjoy
A pretty strong starting 11 got beat this weekend. Not sure what to make of that. https://www.rsl.com/monarchs/news/real-monarchs-fall-to-western-conference-leaders-st-louis-city-2
That's not good. Not bad either probably in the grand scheme of things but you would definitely expect more from that side.
Moreso is that STL isn't good but their 3rd division team is (best in West). Shouldn't there be more of a talent gap?
That's an all-first team contract lineup save for Ruben Mesalles, and Tommy Silva came in for him eventually.
It matters all the way down to 4 years old rec leagues in the USA. It’s a big barrier to player skill development and soccer IQ.