Here We Come

  Last night the CONCACAF Champions League knockout phase kicked off for MLS teams. It did not take long to see that the MLS teams were more than ready for the challenge.
  Toronto FC hosted LA last night in the Rogers Center. Although the pitch might have looked a little sub par, the play on the field was world class. Someone must have forgotten to give the hosts the memo that they were supposed to get blown out. They jumped out to an early 2-0 lead over the Galaxy. It was almost as if the MLS champions thought that this was going to be a cakewalk. After the initial lead Beckham and company clawed their way back to pull a draw out from this one.
  Seattle opened up the 2012 campaign hosting Santos Laguna. The Sounders were the first team to strike out with a goal from David Estrada in the 12th minute. After the first goal the Mexican side woke up. The play seemed to stay contained by both defenses for the remainder of the first half. Fifteen minutes into the second half Herculez Gomez , the American international, knotted the game all up. Despite Santos Laguna tieing it up, Seattle refused to go quietly into the night. Brad Evans secured the win for the MLS side heading in a free kick from Mauro Rosales to the crowds delight.
  I felt like last night was the start of something big for the MLS, but moreover, soccer in North America. It wasn't that MLS teams were the victors in both matches. Or the fact that both matches had enormous crowds present. It was an energy that you could feel through the TV or the monitor. It was the excitement that everyone had yesterday. The feeling was reminiscent to opening day for MLB when I was a child. Yesterday North American soccer took a stand and told the world that we are here, and we aren't going anywhere. The quality of the players in the MLS are getting better and better every season. But that growth is dwarfed by the advancement of the sport in the hearts of fans and supporters. Sure other countries might have the history, but what we lack in history we make up for with heart. I would like to welcome the soccer back for the 2012 season, you have been missed over the winter. Long live the MLS.

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