Friday, February 11, 2005

News and Views

The Cheap Seats: Doffing my derby Lalas makes an interesting point:
Basically, the European leagues are gradually becoming more like the U.S. leagues -- one team, one city....Now, MLS is going the other way. It's just established its first intra-city derby -- or, I should probably say, Chivas USA owner Jorge Vergara has established the league's first intra-city derby.
Hmm...I never thought of it that way, although that is certainly an interesting point.
See, choice breeds competition. That's simple antitrust economics. And mark my words, those two Chivas-Galaxy matches are going to be the most competitive games in MLS next season. Because, for the first time, the players will not only be playing for their team or their salary, but also for serious bragging rights.
Lalas may be right. A good sports rivalry can be a very good thing: the games are more exciting, the fans are more passionate, and both teams can expect good crowds when playing each other. Who knows? It may even spark more interest in MLS and in soccer. However, I do have my doubts. After all, Lalas is forgetting one other part of the economics issue: is one city fully capable of supporting two MLS teams? I guess that only time will tell, and, besides, it's not like I'm a part of the decision-making process!

Fox Sports World Officially Changes To "Fox Soccer Channel" Whoo-hoo! A TV network in the USA that is dedicated solely to soccer!
For the official news: Welcome to Fox Soccer Channel!

Roundup: More good news from Crew

Friedel retires from U.S. national team

Ask the GM: Elliott on stadium, players

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