Players the Strikers need to sign.

The new Strikers have big shoes to fill. Their prior name sakes were for the most part powerhouses, with star players, great attendance and a record that boasts never missing the playoffs. Will this new incarnation be up to par?

Traffic (owners of the new Strikers) have given us quite a few quality players in Romario, Zinho, Christian Gomez, among others. We know they have connections and could sign great players for the 2011 season. Let's hope they can pull off a few good transfers and surprise us!

Here is my fantasy list followed by players that might realistically be in the teams budget.

Ronaldinho: Yeah, I'm dreaming. If the Strikers were in MLS it could be realistic considering Traffic has the Brazil connection. Rumors have him going to the LA Galaxy or a return to Brazil.

Carlos Tevez: The Argentina striker has troubles with current club Manchester City and requested a transfer. Imagine watching Tevez at Lockhart Stadium...

Andres D'Alessandro: This Argentine has completed his stay at Internacional of Brazil and just got eliminated from the Club World Cup. Rumors have his sights on a likely return to River Plate in Argentina. A few European clubs are interested too.

Gianluigi Buffon: Wow, talk about dreaming... This Juventus goalkeeper would be any teams dream. He would likely be the reason the team would make it to the playoffs. A russian club is said to be after this 32-year-old shot stopper.

Clarence Seedorf: This Dutch player is a midfielder for Italian club A.C. Milan. The 34-year-old is said to be heading to MLS.

Juan Pablo Angel: Yeah, I know, the Galaxy are going to sign him, but this star was made for the Strikers. The huge Colombian population in South Florida would have flocked to see him.

Coming back to reality... Here is a list of players that could be within The Striker's reach.

Jaime Moreno: This former DC United star would be great for the Strikers. Speaking English fluently and originally from Bolivia he could be the face of the team on TV and radio. He is recognizable to most soccer connoisseurs.

Guillermo Barros Schelotto: Former Columbus Crew Designated Player, Schelotto was among the players not taken in the MLS Re-entry draft. He is still a great player and would be the perfect replacement for Christian Gomez if he doesn't return.

Dema Kovalenko: This rugged player will no doubt get carded every other game but no one can deny the man plays with spirit. Could play in midfield or as a back up striker.

Nick Garcia : Recently played for Toronto FC. Was not selected in the Re-entry draft. At 31 he is still a great defender.

Adrian Serioux: Former Houston Dynamo and Canadian international defender, currently a free agent. Would be great for our defense.

Gale Agbossoumonde: Played for Miami FC in 2009 for 6 games, went to Portugal on loan but didn't get playing time. It's time to bring him back and have him play regularly rather than sitting on some bench in Europe. Rumored to be heading to a Swedish team.

Pat Onstad : Canadian goalkeeper is a free agent and a member of the Canadian national team. Last played with the Houston Dynamo.

Franklin Salas: Out of favor at Ecuadorean Champions Liga de Quito, Salas is a skillful dribbling forward with an electrifying pace. His hard shot from 25 yards won the award for the goal of the tournament in the 2005 edition of the Copa Sudamericana.

Claudio Bieler: Forward from Racing Club in Argentina. A proven goalscorer. He is so good that this past February he was called up by then Argentina manager Diego Maradona, but ended up not playing because of an injury.

Diego Serna : Former Miami Fusion and Miami FC player. He was and forever will be a fan favorite. It could be his last hoorah! Wouldn't mind chanting "D-i-e-g-o" one last time!

Can you think of any other players? Suggest a few by leaving a comment below or flood the Miami FC/Strikers email with your player suggestions: fclavijo@trafficsports.com
(He might kill me for giving out his email)

Ladies and Gentlemen, we give you The Fort Lauderdale Strikers.

...Or at least we hope to hear this soon.

The news is in, the new North American Soccer League has been sanctioned (More on that HERE) or should I say 'Provisionally' sanctioned, whatever that means. The USSF says the official sanctioning will be in February. So unless there is some major drama, it's all good.

The NASL will have 8 teams in 2011: Atlanta Silverbacks, Carolina RailHawks, FC Edmonton, FC Tampa Bay, Miami FC, Montreal Impact, NSC Minnesota Stars and the 2010 champions Puerto Rico Islanders. The late addition of AC St Louis was thought as an almost certainty which would have brought the league to 9 teams in 2011. But reports are saying St Louis is done.

With all this mentioned, concern lies in whether the NASL will really "undertake an extensive marketing campaign in the months leading up to its inaugural weekend". More important is my concern that the soon to be announced Strikers will not get the attention it deserves.

It's no secret Traffic Sports, owners of Miami FC and majority owner of the new NASL have been somewhat stingy when it came to Miami FC. With exception of their inaugural season, when they brought in aging star Romario, little has been done to actually capture the attention of the general public in this admittedly unfriendly sports town. Sparks of promise came with the signing of Fusion great Diego Serna in 2009 and the same happened with the signing of Christian Gomez in 2010. But in both cases Miami FC failed to market these (arguably) high profile players.
In recent random unscientific polls made by the Miami Ultras throughout Broward and Miami Dade counties, we asked the average person outside of supermarkets, at pubs and random places if they were soccer fans? If they were, we asked if they had heard of Miami FC? Out of 10 people claiming to be soccer fans I asked in Miami Dade 1 had actually heard of Miami FC and asked me if Romario still played with the team?... Most people don't know Miami FC exists and no matter how much I try to reach out via this blog or passing out flyers there is not much a fan can do to make their team any more known in the community. Word of mouth is not enough.
Soccer is a poor mans sport. It is the working man of Europe, South America and other regions that fill the stadiums of the world in an effort to escape their daily 9 to 5 jobs. So when you go to Traffic Sports offices in Miami's exclusive Brickell and pay $20 for parking... Well, you kinda get the picture that these folks are not in touch with the average "Joe" fan.
Makes you wonder why? Why having offices in such a prestigious area in Miami does not equal to Miami FC being the flag ship team of the USL or NASL? Hell, why not MLS? Shouldn't this team be full of superstars? Or is all the money in the budget going to paying the rent?

But fear not fans, Miami FC has moved the 'TEAM' offices (Not Traffic Sports and perhaps NASL headquarters, they remain in Brickell) to Ft Lauderdale Stadium just across the road from the 'Mecca' of South Florida soccer; Lockhart Stadium. Now, the soon to be Strikers staff will be in the middle of a working class area. The place they should have been from the start. Can this be a sign of things to come? Is Traffic finally getting the picture?

I still worry. The more I read and find out about the Strikers, the more I realize that the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers were arguably one of the most talented sides in the old NASL. If the Cosmos were the Real Madrid of its day then the Strikers was Barcelona. You can't really argue when the Strikers had such stars as Nene Cubillas, Gordon Banks, Gerd Muller, Elias Figueroa, George Best and the list goes on.

Some of the old timers have not embraced the idea of Miami FC becoming the Strikers. Evidence of this is a piece written by Jeff Rusnack of the Sun Sentinel titled Transformation of Miami FC to Strikers has begun

I think it's unfortunate some of the people like (Tim) Robbie and (Ray) Hudson are wary of Traffic and MFC using the Fort Lauderdale Strikers name, but it's the fans that really matter. It makes no difference that this team will have no real connection, organization wise, to the old Strikers team(s). The Pacific Northwest clubs and the SJ Earthquakes have little or no connection to the old NASL teams in their cities. And in the end the old timers will come around and support the new team because they are the Fort Lauderdale Strikers.
I think we all could live with a name like Strikers FC or South Florida Strikers, but it just wouldn't be the same as going all out with the Fort Lauderdale name.

Now Traffic has the opportunity to start fresh and erase all the bad decisions made with Miami FC. But I guess the question will be: Can Traffic promote the league and not neglect the Strikers?
The Strikers need to be the Flagship of the league. The example to be followed and of which the rest of the league strives to emulate. I realize Division 2 is a difficult sell but Traffic needs to start to put the team together NOW! Put together a winning team and use the Strikers name as they should and no one will ever blame them for not trying. If we have learned anything from our experience so far with Miami FC is that even a soccer company can fail to run a soccer team if they don't embrace the community.
Now is the time for them to prove all the haters wrong! The ball is in Traffic's side of the field, lets hope they intend to attack.
Are you a Striker liker?

Players from last year that Miami FC needs to Re-sign

Miami FC staff is working diligently and against the clock to give the fans a competitive team and while we all hope among the players signed will be a superstar that will make us keep coming back to games, we realize there is also some need for continuity. Here is a list of Players from last year that I think Miami FC needs to keep as the base for this coming year.

Paulo Araujo Jr. Forward began his career with the Ituano club in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série C, before signing with Miami FC in 2009. Scored his first career professional goal on June 20, 2009, in a game against Cleveland City Stars. Before an injury hit him at the end of the season Paulo Jr. was the best player on the field.

Cristiano "Kaka" Dias Defender, began his playing career in his native Brazil, and has played for several lower-division Brazilian clubs, including São Carlos, São Bento, Osasco, and Desportivo Brasil

Pat "the Man" Hannigan, Goalkeeper, Hannigan was drafted by the MetroStars as the sixth pick of the third round of the 2005 MLS Supplemental Draft but was not offered a contract by the team, and instead signed with Irish side Bray Wanderers. He returned to the U. S. in 2006 to play for the Rochester Rhinos in 2006, he moved on to Miami FC in 2007. Last year he was solid at goal he is a must sign!

Aaron King Forward, The Los Angeles Galaxy picked King in the 4th round in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft. The Galaxy sent King to the Colorado Rapids in 2007. Played ten games, scoring two goals, with the Colorado Rapids reserve team. The Charleston Battery signed King after he impressed the team at trials. After two seasons he scored 21 goals in 51 games. In January 2009, King signed with the Carolina RailHawks. With Miami FC he only played 5 games but scored 3 times! Miami Fans would love to see what he can do in a full season.

Jarryd Goldberg, Midfielder, we recently posted an interview with him. Check it out HERE
Goldberg is a work horse, battling every ball with heart and mind. We need more players like him.

Zach "Beowulf" Kirby, Defender, Voted Miami Ultras Fan Club player of the year. Kirby was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2007 MLS Supplemental Draft by Los Angeles Galaxy, and was offered a contract, but was released in order to make roster room for David Beckham. He then signed with the Wilmington Hammerheads of the USL Second Division, playing five games at the end of the season. Kirby was arguably the best player on the field last year. Not signing him would be a sin!

Tim Merritt, Midfielder, he silently worked the midfield recovering balls for Miami FC. Merritt was drafted by DC United in 2005, and has also played for the Carolina Dynamo of the PDL. He also played for FSV Oggersheim in Germany.

Brian Shriver Forward, played college soccer at the University of North Carolina, Shriver was drafted in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas in the 2nd round, 27th overall. Despite being offered a developmental contract by the MLS club, he rejected it to continue his studies in North Carolina. Brian is rumored to have been in the plans of the Tampa Bay Rowdies for 2010. he played only 6 games with Miami but made an impresion with the fans.

Honorable mention:
Players which had their moments were Leo Inacio, Jack Traynor, Walter Ramirez and Alen Marcina

Players we will miss:
Zourab "Zee" Tsiskaridze, multi position player who held his own as a defender but prefers being at Forward. Signed with the MLS bound Vancouver Whitecaps.

Gale Agbossoumonde, Defender, Now playing in S.C. Braga of the Portuguese Liga Played a few games with Miami FC and we were able to see a star on the rise. Solid in the back except for one blunder. See the video HERE

Diego Serna, Forward, He needs no introduction to the knowledgeable Miami Soccer fan. Diego started off last season on fire but soon fizzled out. Mysteriously was dropped from the team before the season was over. Many of us wouldn't mind seeing him in Miami FC Blue again for one last time.

Do you agree with the players I picked? Any you would add or take out?

All pictures by Robert Scorca

NASL launch website, Traffic buys Copa Latina and Enchilada recipes by Burrito

Whoever thought this off season would be so exciting? Ay chihuahua! So much going on that Burrito don't know where to start... Ok, Burrito going to put down his chew toy and start with the North American Soccer League.

Today NASL will launch its website to the worlds!
Go to: http://www.nasl.com/

Sometime today it should be running as they open it up at the NSCAA Convention in Philadelphia. So check it out or else Burrito hit you on head with quesadilla! You can also follow all NASL news and info on their twitter http://twitter.com/NASLofficial

Miami FC owners Traffic Sports have bought Copa Latina and its parent company "Se Habla Futbol". That is so good cause Burrito Habla Futbol too! For you people that don't know the Copa Latina started in 1993 and over 20,000 spectators attended the inaugural tournament. Many great players have played in the tournament like George Weah, one time Miami Fusion and Miami FC player Diego Serna, just to name a few. For more read Adam Beasley's article on the Miami Herald HERE

And now as Burrito promise... an Enchilada recipe!

Cheese Enchiladas Recipe

Ingredients
2 Cups shredded Monterrey Jack cheese (8 oz)
1 Cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
1 Med. onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 Cup sour cream or plain yogurt
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 Teaspoon pepper
6 Flour tortillas (7-inch diameter)
1 Can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/3 Cup chopped green bell pepper
1 Tablespoon chili powder
1 Teaspoon chopped fresh or
1/2 Teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1/4 Teaspoon ground cumin
1 Clove garlic, finely chopped
1/4 Cup shredded Cheddar cheese (1 oz)

Directions
Heat oven to 350 d. Grease rectangular baking dish, 12 X 7 1/2 X 2 in. Mix Monterrey Jack cheese, 1 cup Cheddar cheese, the onion, sour cream, parsley and pepper. Spoon about 1/2 cup cheese mixture onto each tortilla. Roll tortilla around filling and place seam side down in dish. Mix remaining ingredients except 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese. Pour over enchiladas. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Garnish with sour cream and sliced black olives or lime wedges if desired. 6 servings: 360 calories per serving.

To Microwave: Prepare as directed – except place enchiladas in greased rectangular microwavable dish, same size as above, and do not sprinkle with 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese. Cover with waxed paper and microwave on high 9 to 11 minutes, rotating dish 1/2 turn after 5 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese. Cover and let stand about 3 minutes.

For more Enchilada recipes go to:
http://enchiladarecipes.org/

An Interview with Zourab "Zee" Tsiskaridze‏

We recently found out that Zourab Tsiskaridze, better known to Miami FC fans as "Zee", was signed by the Vancouver Whitecaps. Here is a recap of his career. Taken from the Whitecaps site:

Zourab Tsiskaridze aka "Zee", 23, played with Miami FC Blues in 18 USL-1 matches. He is 6-ft, 185-pounds and a left-sided player who scored one goal and added one assist in 836 minutes of action. His only goal came during Miami's 3-2 defeat to the Whitecaps at Swangard Stadium on June 12, 2009.

Prior to joining the Blues, Zourab spent 18 months with the reserve and first team of FC Sète 34, who play in France’s third division.

In 2004, Tsiskaridze began his professional career in Brazil with the U-20 side of Associação Atlética Internacional - a club based in Limeira, São Paulo. He then played the first six months of 2005 with the U-20 side of Grêmio Recreativo Barueri, who are based in Barueri, São Paulo.

A native of Tbilisi, Georgia, Tsiskaridze first moved to Poland in 1990 before moving to the United States in the spring of 2001. It was in the U.S. that he quickly became a standout soccer player at McLean High School in McLean, Virginia.

Our good friend Robert Scorca asked "Zee" a few questions and here is his response :

Robert Scorca (RS): You came for an open tryout with Miami FC. How many players participated? How many signed on with Miami FC?

Zourab Tsiskaridze (Zee): There were 128 players trying out, 4 players were invited back to train with the team, I was the only one who signed.

RS: After the tryout was over did you feel good about your chances to make the team?

Zee: Yes of course, I talked to (Coach) Zinho and he was very pleased with my performance and he liked me a lot, so I felt that I had a good chance of signing.

RS: What was it like during your first days here in Miami?

Zee : I was getting to know the city a little bit and it was chaotic in the beginning because I was looking for an apartment with Facundo Erpen and we were staying in Diego Serna's house for about 3 weeks until we found a place.

RS : What position did you play before joining Miami FC? I feel you were stuck as a defender with the injury to Facundo Erpen but did not feel comfortable there.

Zee : I played a left sided midfielder or a left sided forward all my life. At the beginning of my career I had played as left back also, but I learned the center back position in Miami thanks to Zinho. I'm glad I did because it made me a more versatile player even though I had trouble learning the position in the beginning.

RS : In your time here we saw your growth as a player. How much of this was because you were more comfortable when you were moved to an attacking roll?

Zee : I love creating, scoring goals or making assists, that's the way I always played. I adjusted to the system we played here in Miami and when I was moved back as an attacker I felt very comfortable.

RS : Do you have any superstitions before a game?

Zee : I like to talk to my dad the day before games, he gives me the best advise and he's my best fan and critic, without his support and advise I wouldn't be able to do what I love.

RS : Which player or coach do you feel was most helpful during your career?

Zee : Coach Greg Petrosian, is a great part of my becoming a complete player. He helped me develop my strength, power and speed. He was a strength and fitness coach in DC United for many years, He won 3 MLS championships with them and also was a Olympic gold medalist in long jump in the 80's. He still performs and he's a world champion in long jump in masters. I've been training with him for the past 6 years, he's a great teacher, great person and a great coach that influenced my professional career.

In my time in Miami I'm very thankful to Zinho for bringing me into the team and giving me the opportunity to perform. He gave me a lot of advise and I'll be always thankful and proud that I had him as a coach. My teammates were there for me too, I had a great relationship with everyone, I still talk to many of the guys, they helped me and I helped them in different situations, we had good chemistry.

RS : What are you going to miss most about your time here in Miami?

Zee: My teammates, the city and the beach, the great weather and of course you Robert:)

RS: Any idea what position Vancouver plans on playing you?

Zee : There are several positions that the coach wants me to learn and be ready to perform in if necessary, I'm waiting for the preseason to start to find out what my roles are.

RS: Any closing thoughts on your time here in Miami?

Zee : I think if Traffic invests more money into the team they'll be able to establish a core of players that will be there for a few seasons. Every team has that. Its a shame that so many good players came and went. The past few years the squad had changed every season making it difficult not only for the coach, but for the whole organization to be successful. I want to wish Miami FC the best of luck in NASL, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to play here last season.

The most important thing about last year is that I grew as a player and person. I'm very happy and glad to have meet so many great people in South Florida. If I had to say something that sums up the whole thing is that a soccer career is only for couple of years and it passes, but the friends you make along the way are forever. I want to thank ALL my friends including you Robert for the support now and for bringing happiness to my life.
Here is a video of Zee scoring on his new team!

Hasta los Huevos Diego Serna and the Greatest game Everwhever! With Video by Burrito

Burrito loves all the Futbol yesterdays especially wheres Burrito's Mexico lindo win! Ahuevo!
But Burrito bring you footage of the greatest game everwhever in the history of futbol! You no believe? Here is great game recaps of Greece vs Germany! It important to see how well thought of all the plays are made. Maybe Zinho can get some ideas for the next Miami FC game by watching this video.
So go get something from Taco Bell, Burrito recommend the Quesadillas! ...and then sit backs and watch. Check it out homies!
Burrito love Monties Pythons!

In other news MiamiSoccerFan.com has letter from Afusionado who writes about Burritos compadre Diego Serna. Burrito still sad Diego was released from team. Once upon a times Diego play for the Miami Fusion, the best team in MLS historys and Diego was the all time scoring leaderers making 52 goles in 100 games! Chingada madre! Thats a lot, pero Diego only score 4 goles with Miami FC. Anyways, wherever you are Diego, Burrito want you to know you were always better then Ezra (Hendrickson)! Get it? Ezra... never mind pinches culeros! Burrito going to miss the divings and goles he missed! Hasta los huevos Diego! Here is one last chant for you!
Di-e-go, Di-e-go, Di-e-go!
Read more HERE

People who live in USA's Hat will visit Miami! Montreal Impact vs Miami FC Saturday 8 pm at FIU Stadium

Si, ugly peoples from Canada come back to Miami to lose again! If it not enough these pinches Canadians can't even get along with themselves and fight between each other! Why? Maybe it's too cold in Canada? Maybe they tired of being called America's Hat? Burrito don't know and no care.

All Burrito know is that the Blues need to wins and get the three points. Lately Burrito's compadre Diego Serna have not score as much and Burrito think it is because he no get passes up there because we need attacking midfielder that we not have since Leo Inacio has been hurt. So that make Diego go down to look for balls so he no score like he should. Burrito is happy that Paulo Jr. is one bad ass macho man and playing like and running like he eat Hot chile! Ah Chihuahua! read more about the game HERE

Anyways Burrito Invite all you vatos to FIU stadium tomorrow Saturday Agosto 1, 2009 at 8 PM FIU Stadium when Miami FC is gonna beat them pinches Canadienses and send them back crying! Come see the hot mamacitas of the Miami FC Cheerleaders! Drink the FREE Beers at the Ultras tailgate that start at 6 PM.
Buy your tickets at Miami FC site, the box office at stadium or from the Cheerleaders and help support their program!
Vamos Miami! Let's go Blues!

Miami FC beats the Vancouver Whitecaps will now face the Portland Timbers

"With key players such as Diego Serna out, Miami FC continued its recent strong play and defeated Vancouver 2-1 at FIU Stadium." Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald

Things are looking good for the Blues on the field as they remain unbeaten at FIU Stadium. Miami looked strong in the first half and could have increased the score if their players had better aim. Numerous opportunities were wasted. Miami took a 1-0 lead in the 5th minute on a goal by Alan Marcina. Leo Inacio made it 2-0 on a penalty kick awarded after defender Jeff Parke grabbed the ball in the area with his hands.

The Second half saw the Whitecaps come on strong in search of some goals but it wasn't until a red card given to Alen Marcina towards the end of the match that the Whitecaps were able to score with only two minutes left in the game. Dever Orgill gave Vancouver some hope but the game was sealed, final 2-1 for the Blues.

With the win, Miami FC is in sixth place and is only four points behind the Rochester Rhinos. The Blues will now play two consecutive games against the second place Timbers on Friday 8PM and Sunday 6PM at FIU Stadium. For more information visit www.miamifc.com
Let's support the Blues! Vamos Miami!
All pictures by Victor Palkaninec for more go here HERE
You can also see videos at the Miami Ultras site check it out HERE

Burrito Report: Balboa cuts hair, Clavijo on Telefutura, Miami FC plays today at 8pm

Hola South Florida Futbol Fans and peoples of the worlds! (Especialy all the hot mamacitas!) Burrito bring you mucho informations so put on seatbelts cause here we go:

Miami FC win game on Sunday vs los Aztex from Austin by 2-0. Burritos idol Diego Serna hit post on shot then miss penalty but later score when Austin Goalie make boo boo and give ball straight to Serna. Ay que pendejo! Diego say "Gracias amigo" and score goal like true macho man that he is! Then Connally Edozien score goal to make Aztex thier bitches for the nite! The Burrito player of the games and winner of the Golden Burrito go to Paulo Araujo Jr! He play with heart and huevos! Read more at Ultra's site here

Miami FC play today at 8 pm at Tropical Park versus The Charleston Battery. Game is FREE so everyone and their mami needs to go or Burrito hit you on head with quesadilla! Tailgate start at 6 pm! Vamos Miami!

Burrito watch USA vs Italy game on Telefutura yesterday and was sad to see that those pinches cheaters that make good espagetti win over USA by 3-1. Rico Clark get red and that pretty much end all hopes for USA. Burrito was happy to see his compadre Fernando Clavijo talking on halftime pero Fernando no mention Miami FC! Porque? He should have worn something on suit with Miami FC logo or something... maybe a Miami Ultra scarf? Come on Miami FC let's do somethings!

Talk abouts Miami FC not doing anything, Burrito take bus to Lockhart stadium and there is no sign on Commercial Blvd that say there is a game! Porque? Then they wonder why people don't go to games. How do people know there is a game if there are no signs? Burrito suggest they put those waving Soccer balls in front of stadium and not hidden in the back. Now we have games at FIU stadium, lets see if Miami FC do advertisements or something there.

Marcelo Balboa was 0n DA show 560 AM Saturday afternoon and Burrito hear on way to Lockhart. Balboa say he was watching some chingado hockey game and was bored. DA never mentioned the Miami FC game that was taking place in a few hours... he did mention his Soccer Clinic...? Either ways DA going to do soccer segment on Thursdays 9 or 10ish Burrito will let you vatos know the deal. Balboa was in town for the futbolito thingie and was on Univision in morning getting hair cutoff for charity. Check out video, sorry it's in Spanish but you see most of his hair go bye-bye!

Miami FC survive scare to win 2-1 over Lynch's FC and advance in the U.S. Open Cup.

Miami FC was able to overcome a 1-0 deficit at half time and defeated Lynch's FC by scoring 2 goals in 1 minute.

Lynch's drew first blood at the 35th minute off of a penalty that left the crowd gathered at Tropical Park silent. As half time came and went things looked bleak for the Blues until a confusing play that looked like a penalty in favor of Miami FC led to the first goal by Paulo Araujo at the 64th minute.

As soon as the game restarted Miami FC went for the kill and not even a minute later Striker Diego Serna escaped his markers and made it 2-1, which proved to be the final score that takes the Blue's to the next stage of the U.S. Open Cup.

Now Miami FC will play against the Charleston Battery who defeated Atlanta FC by 2-0 in a game which saw Atlanta lose 3 players to red cards. More here

According to the U.S. Open Schedule Miami FC would play The Battery on Tuesday June 16 at 8 pm at Tropical Park which would be crazy, considering the Blue's will play at Vancouver this Friday June 12 and then play this Sunday June 14 against Austin here at Lockhart Stadium! To make things worse after their U.S. Open Cup game Miami FC plays June 18, 20 and 23rd! For more on the crazy nightmare schedule the Blue's will go on check out the Miami Ultras site.

In other Miami FC news Honduran national team and one time Miami Fusion player Saul Martinez was seen practicing with the Blues prior to the Lynch's FC game. Could this be another signing or is he just training with the team? Saul was last seen playing for Club Deportivo Marathon of Honduras.

It's time to bleed Blue South Florida fans and support Miami FC as they play against the Austin Aztex this Sunday June 14 at 6pm. Tailgate begins at 4pm.

Let's go Blues! Vamos Miami !

Diego Serna: The Second Coming

In the past two weeks Miami FC has been the revelation of USL. A team that came out of the starting blocks with only weeks of preparation yet their showing so far has been impressive. The one man that stands out the most in this team is Diego Serna. This player, at the twilight of his career has shown that he still has what it takes to play at a high level and I was lucky he granted me a few moments of his time.

Uncle Ed: I see you continue playing with number 17 , how do you see the team so far?
Diego Serna: It's a tranquil team, a noble team, a team that you have to guide due to the inexperience of a few players who are playing at this level for the first time. I think the number 17 is an important number for me as it continues the tradition I left behind with the Miami Fusion.
Uncle Ed: Yes, I understand and I have noticed many of the people are coming to the games because of that history that the Miami Fusion left behind (Particularly that final year 2001 with the best record in the league)
Which of the players on the team today do you think is an exciting player to play with?
Diego Serna: I like Leo Inacio Nunes who is a Brazilian player who handles the ball very well, he is a man that can play in a small area and who has a subtle touch. Orlando Bueso is another one who we know playing locally with Cinco Estrellas; he is a small player with an innate ability with the ball and good rhythm and from there on there are a number of players who in the short while I have worked with them have shown very interesting things.
Uncle Ed: What is your favorite Cuban food?
Diego Serna: Well, pinto beans and Pollo Tropical is one of the things I like the most! [Laughs]Uncle Ed: Do you have a message for The Ultras and Miami FC Fans in general?
Diego Serna: To all those people out there that love Soccer its time to support our Soccer team. Miami and Southern Florida is staying without Soccer, this is the only team we have and I'm in this team because I love Soccer and I love this game and I want to invite everyone, be it Sunday or Saturday however the calendar of the team is arranged. What we are doing now is building for the future and the years to come, we are not going to do what happened with Miami Fusion. We want to build this team for South Florida and the people who love Soccer like the Hondurans, Colombians, Brazilians, Argentinians, everyone needs to support Soccer and this is the time and this is the team. I want the fans to be a little patient with us and give us the opportunity to come to the games and get to know us. The fact that the fans come to the stadium it motivates the players and motivates the front office to continue to invest in the team. So please come out, we want to have a great team with world class stars! All pictures by Victor Palkanínec
See more at http://miamifc2.com/

For the actual Spanish language interview please go to the Miami Ultras Spanish section

The time has come! Miami FC vs Cleveland City Stars today at 8 pm Lockhart Stadium

The day has finally arrived!
Only a few weeks ago Miami FC looked like it was a goner. But Traffic Sports has faith in South Florida and they have kept professional soccer alive. Traffic looks to be in this venture for the long run, so it is time for the fans to support this team and go to Lockhart Stadium tonight April 18 at 8pm as the Mighty "Blues" take on the Cleveland City Stars.
Be a part of the developing tradition that is Soccer in South Florida and see how Miami FC brings down Cleveland City like the falling "Star" it is!
Don't miss out as Soccer greats such as one time Ft Lauderdale Striker Teofilo "Nene" Cubillas along with his ex teammate Ray Hudson, current Gol TV announcer and one time coach of the Miami Fusion do the honors of the first kick, accompanied by Diego Serna, all time scoring leader for the Miami Fusion and now with our Miami FC.

Get to the Stadium early as the Miami Ultras will be having a Tailgate party starting at 6pm!

Here is the list of Miami FC players our good friend Miami Ultra Julio Caballero was able to get for us:

Miami FC 2009 Roster

Jersey # First Name Last Name Nationality Position
1 PATRICK HANNIGAN USA GK
2 RICHARD PERDOMO HONDURAS / USA D
3 ZACK KIRBY USA D
4 CRISTIANO DIAS BRAZIL D
5 FACUNDO ERPEN ARGENTINA D
6 ZOURAB TSISKARIDZE GEORGIA / USA D / M
7 EDWIN MIRANDA EL SALVADOR / USA M
8 JOHN PULIDO COLOMBIA / USA M
9 PAULO ARAUJO JR. BRAZIL M /F
10 LEONARDO INACIO NUNES BRAZIL M
11 ALEN MARCINA CANADA F
12 TIM MERRITT USA D
13 PEDRO FAIFE CUBA M
14 JARRYD GOLDBERG USA M
15 JACK TRAYNOR USA D
16 NICKY TORRES ARGENTINA / USA M
17 DIEGO SERNA COLOMBIA F
18 CONNALLY EDOZIEN NIGERIA / USA M /F
20 ORLANDO BUESO HONDURAS / USA M /F
21 WALTER RAMIREZ HONDURAS / USA D / M
22 CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMS USA D
23 REINIER ALCANTARA CUBA F
25 KENNY SCHOENI USA GK
30 DANNY VAZQUEZ USA F

Vamos Miami FC!
Get your tickets at the Stadium and visit Miami FC!

Miami FC assembles a group of Superheroes in their quest for the USL title

We are 4 days away from the beginning of Miami FC's season and we now have a team. South Florida fans hope this will be a team of Superheroes!
Brazilian World Cup winner Zinho has assembled a group that will be led by the experienced and one time Miami Fusion star Colombian Diego Serna. The team has now completed it's roster gathering a combination of youth with experience. The Miami Herald reports a few familiar faces, such as defender Chris Williams, midfielder John Pulido and forward Connally Edozien. Goalie Pat Hannigan who played with the team back in 2007.
A few notable players are El Salvador national team member Edwin Miranda, Tim Merritt, Zach Kirby, Jack Traynor, and Kenny Schoeni, a goalie formerly of the Columbus Crew. Local players: Danny Vasquez, Nicky Torres, Richard Perdomo and Orlando Bueso.
Previously Miami FC's site had reported the signing of one time MLS All-star Facundo Erpen, Brazilian midfielder Leo Inacio Nunesone, defenders Cristiano Dias and Walter Ramirez, midfielder Jarryd Goldberg and Ex Cuban national team members Pedro Faife and Reinier Alcantara.
Most notable is the signing of Georgian Zourab Tsiskaridze who was one of over 100 players that tried out for the team and actually signed.
"After three seasons at Tropical Park and an off season in which it nearly folded, Miami FC is now a team with two homes: Lockhart and Florida International University's football stadium. Thus far, the Blues have committed to play at Lockhart at 8 p.m. Saturday April 18th and at 6 p.m. April 26 vs. Rochester. They will play Montreal on April 24 at FIU. The remaining 12 games are to be determined." said the Sun Sentinel's Jeff Rusnak
The Miami Ultras are organizing a Tailgate party at Lockhart Stadium and invite all South Florida to come out and join them at 6 pm this Saturday April 18th as the Mighty "Blues" will take on the Cleveland City Stars, the game starts at 8pm.
The time is now and our Soccer team needs you!
If you haven't done so please purchase your tickets at http://www.miamifc.com/ for only $12.
Vamos Miami FC!

Montreal Impact vs Miami FC pictures and comments...

Miami FC and the Montreal Impact had a scrimmage on Sunday that saw a number of players competing for a place on Miami FC.
Considering Miami FC had only started practicing this past week the team looked good.
One stand out was Miami Fusion veteran Diego Serna who looked sharp and in good form. Word is he is still in talks with Miami FC and we should know this week if he will be part of this years roster.
The game was divided into three 30 minute halves that saw the Impact score 3 times to Miami's 1.
A large number of fans showed up to witness this free event. The next preseason match will take place at Barry University on April 1st, and against Lynn University, April 4th. Other friendlies are still to be confirmed.
For more pictures please go to: Miami FC vs Montreal Impact
All pictures by Victor Palkaninec

Former Fusion player to Miami FC? Diego Serna

Back in the Miami Fusion days there was one player that was the target of all haters in MLS and all across the Bigsoccer boards. His name is Diego Serna and recently we saw him at Copa Latina and the 24-hour Soccer-A-Thon organized by the Ultras. Serna was the epitome of the player everyone loved to hate. He was fast, good at handling the ball and he had a knack at creating dead ball opportunities. Many said he was a diver and I admit he was. His acting skill put any Hollywood actor to shame. Yes, I dare say Miami FC needs a player that will be the face of the team and who better for that then Diego Serna.
If you think Serna would be a great player for Miami FC then lets do something about it and write to Miami FC:
adavidson@trafficsports.com

Here is a little on Diego Serna taken from Wikipedia:
Born October 2, 1973 in Medellín, Colombia. The all-time leading scorer for the now-defunct Miami Fusion of Major League Soccer.

Serna began his career with Deportiva Tulua and Independiente Medellín, before moving to MLS with the expansion Fusion in 1998. He ended up with the team records of 100 games, 52 goals, 36 assists, and 140 points in the regular season, and added a goal and an assist in six playoff games. In 2001, he was named to the MLS Best XI.
Serna played for the NY Metro Stars and later the Revolution. Serna then moved back to Colombia to Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellín, before returning to MLS in the middle of the 2003 season for a stint with the Los Angeles Galaxy, scoring three goals in ten games.

After spending some time playing in his native Colombia with Once Caldas and Deportes Quindio, Serna returned to MLS with the Colorado Rapids in August 2005. He was released in November after playing only two matches for the Denver based club. He then played for Macará of Ecuador before joining Club Fast in Brazil on June 14, 2007

Although Serna was an excellent goal-scorer in MLS, after the Miami Fusion was disbanded, he never reached his maximum potential in the league, electing to play in a diverse scope of international opportunities, contributing to his advancement as an established veteran.