Bigtime Soccer League

TRADE: Rose City Makes 2 Trades for 2 Players

2012-02-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Rose City wasted no time completing 2 offseason trades in preparation for the 2012 draft. In the first trade, the Flyers picked up CJ Sapong and the Battles 5th round pick, for the clubs 1st and 7th round picks. Then the Flyers picked up Alejandro Moreno in a trade with Gold Coast FC, in exchange for a 6th round pick. With the unprotected draft scheduled on the 21st, Rose City will have 3 players on it roster before the 2012 BSL Draft even begins.

First Kick Matches and No More Reserves

2012-02-13T19:39:00.000-08:00

The BSL will expand from 11 clubs, to now 12 total clubs in 2012. The balanced schedule will remain with each team playing each other twice in the same 22 week season. However, gone are the 2 bye weeks. Now each club will play 22 regular season matches. (After 3 seasons with a 20 game regular season). The playoffs will remain unchanged. The Majors Cup will remain unchanged.

Reserves Gone
BSL rosters will also be trimmed down from 14 players to now 12 players (see rules) Eliminated are the two reserves players. Since the 3rd substitute never managed to enter a match in 2011, the third sub basically became another reserve. The smaller rosters will prevent BSL club owners from holding a large allotment of unused players. Also with increased league size, eliminating the reserve rule will also help maintain the player talent pool for each BSL club.

Schedule Coming
Look for the full BSL Schedule in the next few days. First Kick week 1 will feature a rematch of last year BSL Cup Final, CD Gunners vs Gold Coast. Also on tap will be Union SC vs Pennsylvania, Burud Town vs KC Quest, Alliance FC vs Alamo City, Rose City vs Gateway United, Second City vs Spartans 1612.

TRADE: Blues/Gunners Have Different Needs.

2012-02-10T15:18:00.000-08:00

The defending champions just completed terms to obtain a 3rd Designated Player from their 2011 roster taking a slot from Union SC in return for giving up the clubs 2nd round pick. The deal makes sense for both sides. The Gunners had success and are trying to keep as much of the winning formula together. The Blues finished in 9th place in 2011 and need to rebuild after the clubs own championship season. Adding a draft pick in the early rounds will help in accomplishing that mission for a return to glory.

TRADE: Suns/Saints Wheeling and Dealing

2012-02-07T21:10:00.000-08:00

The offseason just heated up! Last years BSL Cup finalist, Gold Coast FC, is no stranger to living heavy on the draft. Infact the club owner hardly ever keeps Designated Players and like last year will have multiple first round picks. Surprising the league office though, Gateway United has confirmed that a trade has been made. Going to the Saints will be David Beckham, Kenny Cooper and a DP slot. In return the Suns are obtaining Joel Lindpere and the Saints first round pick. Gateway United release Brian Mullan from its roster for space. The deadline for DP choices is 2/20. Each club can keep two players. Remaining players on existing rosters are eligible in the expansion pre-draft.

2 Months Before Season Four

2012-01-08T21:36:00.000-08:00

Nine of the 11 BSL clubs from 2011 are returning for the 2012 campaign. You may look at the TRANSACTIONS section to monitor which Designated Players have been selected and if any trades have been made for a 3rd DP. An invitation will be placed in the next couples of weeks to pick up 2 new clubs to bring the BSL back to 11 total.

The Complete 2012 BSL Schedule will be announced once the full 11 clubs are known. Week 1 will start March 10th.

The 2012 BSL Draft order will be as follows: 1/Union SC, 2/Alamo City, 3/Burud Town, 4/Alliance, 5/Pennsylvania, 6/Gateway United, 7/Gold Coast, 8/Second City, 9/CD Gunners, 10/New Team#1, 11/New Team #2.

HISTORY: 2011 Year in Review

2011-10-19T21:42:00.000-07:00

The growth of the Bigtime Soccer League continued into its third season. After two steady years playing with 8 clubs and a 3 team playoff format, the league expanded to become an 11 team league and to accommidate this growth added a 4th playoff spot. 6 of 8 clubs from 2010 returned and the 20 game regular season schedule was extended from 20 weeks to 22 weeks. For the first time the BSL had a balanced schedule with each club playing each other twice. The only new rule added to the league in 2011 was the "Saves Rule" allowing BSL Keepers to earn a point for 5 saves or more on gameday. The regular season was extremely competitive with many of the expansion clubs showing impressive strength. Some new clubs like Second City SC obtained wins fairly quickly, while others like Alliance FC began the season poorly with a 1-5-0 start before finding form to eventually win 10 games on the season. Veteran BSL clubs found an array of fortunes. Clubs like CD Gunners, Gold Coast FC, and Gateway United enjoyed success, while other familiar clubs like Alamo City SC and even the defending BSL Champion, Union SC struggled to keep up. The playoff and Majors Cup race came down to the final week to determine the qualifiers. Only two clubs, the CD Gunners and Second City SC, clinched both the playoffs and Majors Cup. The other playoff partipants were Gateway United and Gold Coast FC. In the first round of the BSL playoffs the CD Gunners became the first Honors Trophy Champion to win a playoff game defeating Gateway United in the Semi Finals. Meanwhile Gold COast FC defeated Second City in the other Semi Final match. The BSL Final gave the CD Gunners the league's first "Double" with a 5-1 win over Gold Coast FC. The 2011 Majors Cup saw new clubs Pennsylvania Stoners and Alliance FC as the other qualifiers. In the Group Stage, the BSL clubs to advance were the CD Gunners and Alliance FC. These two BSL clubs met each other in the Semi Finals where the Gunners prevailed 5-4. The Majors Cup Final pitted the CD Gunners against the Seattle Sounders who for the second year in a row represented the MLS in the Final. The CD Gunners completed a stellar season winning the Majors Cup Final 7-6 in overtime. In the leagues derbies, Gold Coast FC nabbed the California Cup over Union Southern California. The CD Gunners nabbed the BSL Classic over Alamo City. Gateway United took the Barium Cup over Alliance FC. Click on the boxes to see complete season stats, scores, and standings.

AWARDS: CD Gunners 2011 Majors Cup Champions

2011-10-16T20:42:00.000-07:00

What is there left to say about this club and its accomplishments this 2011 season. The club has just picked up its 4th BSL sanctioned Cup and all three for this year. In the Majors Cup tournament the club had a overcome a hard fought battle with Toronto FC in the Group Stage just to earn a point with an 8-8 tie. Then, after being dismantled by the LA Galaxy, faced elimination against the BSL's Pennsylvania Stoners only to edge the club out by a single point. That living dangerously, but never say die mentality, helped the Gunners also edge out the BSL's Alliance FC by 1 point as well in the Semi Finals. Finally, The club needed overtime to edge out the Seattle Sounders also by 1 point. Congrats to the CD Gunners!

MAJORS CUP: Gunners Prevail In Overtime

2011-10-16T20:28:00.001-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 7 SEATTLE 6 (OT)- Mission accomplished as the CD Gunners have become the first BSL club to win the "Trifecta". All three League Championships, the Honors Trophy, The BSL Cup, and now the Majors Cup, were won by the club this season. It was not an easy journey, and the Majors Cup Final proved that. Both competitors fought hard. The Gunners got 2 big goals from Mendoza and a huge clean sheet and 5 saves from Tally Hall. The Sounders countered with a goal from Ochoa and plenty of assists and also 6 saves from Kasey Keller. Freddy Montero had double duty for both clubs with his goal. With the score tied 6-6 after full time, the Gunners Soolsma scored the game winner in overtime with his assist. BOXSCORE: Gunners- Montero(G), Mendoza(2G Y), Sanvezzo(G), Hall(CS SP), Soolsma(A). Sounders- Montero(G), Ochoa(G), Rosales(A), Neagle(A), Evans(A), Keller(SP), Ianni(Y).

MAJORS CUP: Gunners VS Sounders in the Final

2011-10-02T19:50:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 5 ALLIANCE 4- The CD Gunners got big goals from Montero and Pappa, but it was Javier Morales assist that was the difference in the match. Marco Pappa started the week with a hat trick and would end the scoring with a 2 point average. Then Alliance FC countered with goals from DeRosario and Najar to equalize. Freddy Montero reclaimed the lead for the Gunners with his 2 goals, while Alliance countered again with a goal from Barrett and Clean Sheet from Pickens. The Morales assist was the difference. The CD Gunners advance to the Majors Cup Finals with a chance to be the first BSL club to win all 3 League Championships in the same season. BOXSCORE: Gunners- Pappa(2T), Montero(2G Y), Morales(A). Lions- DeRosario(1T), Najar(1T), Pickens(CS), Barrett(G), Stephenson(Y). SEATTLE 4 LOS ANGELES 2 - The Seattle Sounders are returning to the Majors Cup Final for the second straight year. BOXSCORE: Galaxy- Barrett(G), Beckham(A), Cardozo(Y), Gonzalez(Y). Sounders- Montero(2G Y), Jaqua(A), Keller(SP).

GROUP STAGE: Majors Cup 11' Semi Finals Are Set

2011-09-25T16:19:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 7 PENNSYLVANIA 6 - Two BSL clubs fighting for the last Semi Final spot for Group A, played to the very final minutes. The Stoners got 2 scores from Juan Pablo Angel in both of his matches to average 2 points and also got an assist from LaBrocca to average a point from him as well. The Gunners countered with a 2 point average from Saborio in his 2 games this week and a 1 point average from Dane Richards. Next, Tally Hall and Sebastian LeToux traded scores for each club. Then, the Gunners Designated Player came through with a couple of spectacular goals and Sanvezzo chipped in a goal as well. Kasey Keller countered with 6 saves for the Stoners in the nightcap as well. Oduro would add another score for Pennsylvania but it would not be enough. Capital District advances. BOXSCORE: Gunners- Saborio(2T), Richards(1T), Hall(CS), Montero(2G), Sanvezzo(G). Stoners- Angel(2T), LaBrocca(1T), LeToux(1G), Keller(SP), Oduro(G), Perlaza(Y). ALLIANCE 7 SECOND CITY 4 - The Lions won Group B with a perfect 3-0 record in Majors Cup play. Led by a whole bunch of scores from DeRosario who would end up averaging 3 points, and another slew of scores from Najar who would end up averaging 2 points, Alliance offense was in high gear all week. Second City tried to keep up with scores from 5 different players including an impressive week by Jon Busch who had 6 saves and 5 saves in 2 games to actually average a Saves Point. However, it would not be enough and a line up failure didn't help as well. Alliance advances in the Majors Cup Semi Finals pitted against the BSL's Gunners. BOXSCORE: Lions- DeRosario(3T), Najar(2T), Rodgers(1T), Stephenson(1G). Stars- Davis(1A) -1LF, Wolff(1T), Busch(SP), Chiumiento(A), Nyarko(G). LOS ANGELES 2 TORONTO 1 - The Galaxy stayed perfect in the tournament although had the clubs worst offensive showing with only 2 points. BOXSCORE: Galaxy- Barrett(G), Saunders(CS), Hejduk(Y). Reds- Frei(SP), Morgan(Y), Eckersley(Y), Iro(Y). SEATTLE 5 COLORADO 1 - The Sounders kept the Rapids from earning a single point in group stage and will advance in the Semi Finals for the second straight year. Seattle will play the rival Galaxy next week. BOXSCORE: Sounders- Montero(2G), Evans(1G 1A Y), Gonzalez(A), Parke(Y). Rapids- Moor(G Y), Folan(Y).

GROUP STAGE: Galaxy and Lions Holding Top Spots

2011-09-17T22:38:00.000-07:00

PENNSYLVANIA 6 TORONTO 5 - The Reds have been playing some of their best ball during the Majors Cup. However, have only garnered 1 point in group stage so far. After an 8-8 tie in game 1, The Reds scored 5 more points early in this match. This time the Stoners fought back. 4 position players scored goals. Then Kasey Keller delivered the equalizer and the game winner with a clean sheet and 6 saves. It was a huge win for the Stoners keeping the club alive in Group A. BOXSCORE: Reds- Koevermans(2G), Morgan(A), Soolsma(A), Eckersley(A), DeGuzman(Y). Stoeners- LeToux(G), LaBrocca(G), Oduro(G), Angel(G), Keller(CS SP). LOS ANGELES 9 CAPITAL DISTRICT 4- The best in the MLS are currently the best in the Majors Cup too. The Galaxy are 2-0-0 in Group A after dismantling the BSL Champions and have clinched a spot in the Majors Cup Semi Finals. Four Galaxy players scored braces. Meanwhile the Gunners have seen a total of 17 points scored on them in 2 Majors Cup games. Where's the defense the fans cried out! Next weeks game against the BSL's Stoners is a must win for the Gunners. BOXSCORE: Galaxy- Magee(2G), Keane(G A), Beckham(2A), Jordan(2A), Saunders(CS). Gunners- Montero(A), Mendoza(1T), Rosales(2A), Richards(Y). SEATTLE 9 SECOND CITY 4- The Sounders rebounded nicely after losing last week to Alliance with an offensive outburst. Six different players contributed to the scoresheet as last years Majors Cup runner up's stayed alive in the tournament. Second City was leading in this match early with a brace from Koevermans, but simply could not keep up in this one. BOXSCORE: Sounders- Fucito(G), Rosales(2A), Evans(A), Montero(A), Fernandez(2G), Keller(CS SP), Wahl(Y). Stars- Koevermans(2G), Davis(1T Y), Nyarko(A). ALLIANCE 2 COLORADO 1- For the second week in a row the Lions lived dangerously and got away with it and for the second week in a row the Rapids had no offense. Luke Rodgers goal fairly early in the match was the game winner. The Lions are now 2-0-0 in Group B, while Colorado is eliminated and will play for pride next week. BOXSCORE: Lions- Torres(A), Rodgers(G). Rapids- Nyassi(G Y)

GROUP STAGE: Plenty of Action in the Openers

2011-09-10T22:21:00.000-07:00

TORONTO 8 CAPITAL DISTRICT 8 - A record tieing 16 points was scored in this match. The MLS 4th seeded club came out swinging in the first game of the tournament posting 8 points. Julian Guzman led the way with 3 points. The BSL Champ's played splendid including 3 assist from Chris Pontius, but would only be able to grab a point in the group stage standings. Reds- Soolsma(G), Frings(A), Johnson(G), Platta(A), DeGuzman(G 2A), Koevermans(G), Harden(Y), Avila(Y). Gunners- Montero(G), Rosales(A), Saborio(G), Sanvezzo(A), Pontius(3A), Mendoza(G) ALLIANCE 3 SEATTLE 2 - The Sounders 3 yellow cards proved costly as Roger Torres entrance into the game allowed the Lions to pick up the win. Matt Pickens was also impressive with 8 saves. Alliance FC currently has first place in Group B. BOXSCORE: Sounders- Montero(G), Rosales(A) Carrasco(Y), Hurtado(Y), Alonso(Y). Lions- Torres(1T), Barrett(1T), Pickens(SP) LOS ANGELES 6 PENNSYLVANIA 1- The Galaxy had the benefit of playing 2 matches in the week and took advantage of it scoring 6 points. Sean Franklin lead the way with 2 goals on the 5th and then an assist on Friday. The Stoners meanwhile did get 2 scores from LeToux and Bunbury, but with those players also playing twice in the week would have to settle for an average of 1 point from each player. A line up failure cost the Stoners a point as well. BOXSCORE: Galaxy- Franklin(2T), Donovan(1T), Gonzalez(1T), Beckham(1T), Barret(1T), Hejduk(Y), Donovan(Y), Beckham(Y). Stoners- LeToux(1T)-1LF, Bunbury(1T), Angel(Y). SECOND CITY 3 COLORADO 1 - The MLS Champions were shut down Friday night and could only generate 1 point. The Stars took advantage with scores from 4 different players including a Jon Busch clean sheet. The Stars did lose 1 point for a lineup failure if a scoring average tiebreaker becomes an issue down the road. BOXSCORE: Stars- Chiumiento(G)-1LF, Frings(A), Koevermans(G), Busch(SP), Solli(Y). Rapids- Pickens(SP), Mullan(Y).

AWARDS: CD Gunners Are 2011 BSL Cup Champions

2011-08-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

The second time is the charm. The CD Gunners were the runner up in 2009, but 2 years later prevailed and can now add a star to the top of the clubs crest. The 2011 Champions lead the league in scoring and margin of victory. So deserving of the title is an understatement. The club was consistent the entire season and held true in the playoffs scoring 7 points in the Semi Finals and 5 points in the Final. The Gunners are also the first club to claim a "Double" winning two league titles in the same season.

PLAYOFFS: CD Gunners Can Celebrate

2011-08-28T12:54:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 5 GOLD COAST 1 -For the first time the winner of the Honors Trophy is also the winner of the BSL Cup. Yes, the jinx is over. Even though 3 MLS games were rescheduled to much later dates because of the hurricane on the East Coast, the Gunners still managed to score 5 points. The player of the game was Rosales who had a goal and 2 assist. Fredy Montero also had an assist and Saborio tacked on a goal. The Suns got very little in response except a Omar Bravo goal. The only card in the match was Kyle Beckerman's yellow for the Gold Coast, so the subs did not figure into the scoring for either side. Congratulations to the Gunners and a successful season.

PLAYOFFS: Who Will Add to Their Trophy Case?

2011-08-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday begins the scoring to determine the winner of the 2011 BSL Cup at H20 Park. Capital District needed every bit of its league leading offense to advance to this stage, while Gold Coast had to use all 14 players on its roster to advance. Does either club have any offense left? While neither club has announced the line-up's for the Final so far, its a safe bet that the Gunners will be playing their DP's, Montero and Saborio. The Suns will probably counter with Bravo and Beckham. But make no mistake both clubs are stacked with plenty of weapons.

PLAYOFFS: Gunners/Suns Advance to 2011 BSL Final

2011-08-21T21:42:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 7 GATEWAY UNITED 5 - What a game. Truly worthy of the hype. The Saints opened the scoring with a couple of scores, one from Jewsbury and one from Quaranta. Then the Gunners got a couple of goals from Dane Richards (one of the assisted by Lindpere) to make the score 3-2 Gateway in front. The Seattle game really changed things when Rosales scored off a Montero assist (Both Gunner players) to give the club its first lead. Diego Chara tied the game up at 4-4 for the Saints, and then Sanvezzo reclaimed the lead for the Gunners at 5-4. The Saints were not done yet, as Donovan's assist once again tied the score up. The final play came off a Quaranta yellow card on Sunday. That let in Mendoza off the bench who had a goal and assist as the game winner. Capital District advances to the clubs 2nd BSL Championship Game.

GOLD COAST 4 SECOND CITY 3 (Overtime) - Another classic match worthy of the playoffs. The Suns opened the scoring with 2 Zusi goals (average 1 point in 2 games). The Stars would equalize off a Josh Wolff goal. Matt Reis would give the Suns the lead back with a 7 save performance after it was determined he would not play in the Rev's 2nd game of the week. Brad Davis would tie up the game once again with his 2 assist (1 point average in 2 games). Then in the Saturday nightcap David Beckham gave the Suns their third lead with his assist. On Sunday the Stars tied it up for a third time with a Pardo assist. End of full time. Overtime began with none of the clubs 3 subs accounting for a score, so with reserves coming into play Renteria broke the deadlock with the game winning goal in overtime. Gold Coast advances to the clubs 1st BSL Championship Game.

BIDDING WAR: Eddie Johnson

2011-08-16T20:48:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (3): Burud Town, Alamo City, CD Gunners - Johnson's contract with Fulham expired. The MLS will allocated him to a club. Bidding for Johnson will end Thursday at 6pm (Pacific Time)

MATCH PREVIEW: BSL Cup Semi Finals

2011-08-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT vs GATEWAY UNITED - One of these BSL orginals is going to get their first playoff win. The Saints lost in the Semi Finals in 2009 and the Gunners lost to the same Monarchs/Battle club that defeated the Saints that year in the next round, the Championship Game of 2009. The Gunners finished the year off with the #1 APG and #1 MOV in the league. The Saints finished with the #2 MOV and #2 APG, so the potential for points in this game is great. The Gunners come into this match on a 6 game unbeaten streak, the Saints a 2 game losing streak.
SECOND CITY vs GOLD COAST - This is the first playoff game for both clubs. The Stars finished the year off in 2nd place in both the BSL standings and Majors Cup standings. Ranked 6th in offense, but 3rd in Margin of Victory. The Suns tied for 3rd in MOV, and ranked 4th in offense. Both clubs lost the last game of the regular season.

Majors Cup 2011 Group Matches Announced

2011-08-15T21:00:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Majors Cup features the 4 Major League Soccer cup winners of last season. The Los Angeles Galaxy (Supporters Shield) are the #1 seed for the MLS currently with the best record in its league for 2011. The Seattle Sounders (US Open Cup) are finished week 22 in the MLS ranked #2. The Colorado Rapids (MLS Cup) are ranked #3 for MLS clubs, and Toronto FC (Canadian Cup) rounds things out. The BSL will be represented by 3 first year clubs, Second City, Pennsylvania, and Alliance. Also the Honors Trophy Champion CD Gunners. As usual the top 2 in each group advance to the Semi Finals.

BIDDING WAR: Nick LaBrocca (CHV)

2011-08-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (4): Pennsylvania, Second City, Burud Town, CD Gunners - The release of LaBrocca has drawn the attention of several BSL owners. Bidding on him will conclude Tuesday 6pm (Pacific time)

WEEK 22: Stoners and Lions Clinch Majors Cup

2011-08-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

ALLIANCE 5 GOLD COAST 2 - The Suns quest to repeat as Majors Cup Champions has come to an end. This winner advances and loser goes home match began with the Suns taking a 2-0 lead early in the season finale. Then offense ran dry and Alliance FC found its groove. First Maicon Santos scored. Then DeRosario and Najar added 3 more points. Finally Brian Ching added another on Sunday to seal the deal and clinch the Lions a place in Group B of the 2011 Majors Cup tournament . The Suns will have to regroup for the playoffs next week. PENNSYLVANIA 5 GATEWAY UTD 3 - The Stoners picked up 4 players in time for the season finale against the Saints and one of them, Jeff Larentowicz (the former Gunner) scored a goal. The Game was tight until LeToux's two penalty kicks gave Pennsylvania some breathing room. The win secured a spot for the Stoners in Group A of the 2011 Majors Cup and eliminated the Saints who will have to gear up for the playoffs next week. UNION SC 4 CD GUNNERS 4 - Getting a taste of their own medicine, the Gunners had a win taken away after the Blues scored twice on Sunday to salvage a point and stop the Gunners from a second 47 point season. The tie keeps the Gunners unbeaten streak intact as a busy postseason is ahead. Meanwhile, the Blues season is over for league sanctioned action, but perhaps an oversea's tour could be planned. ALAMO CITY 3 SECOND CITY 1 - The Battle finished the season off strong winning both 2011 matches against the Stars. However, its Second City that will be playing next week and also in the Majors Cup, so the loss does little to affect the clubs current situation. PN RANGERS 0 HILLCREST UTD 0 - The last game for both clubs.

BIDDING WAR: Robbie Keane (LA)

2011-08-13T19:56:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (8): Alamo City, Second City, Union SC, Burud Town, Gateway United, Gold Coast, Pennsylvania, Alliance - The Galaxy are expected to be trading Juan Pablo Angel and picking up Robbie Keane. Yes!!!!! Oh sorry that was me the Galaxy fan trying to stay fair and balanced .. ummmm back to being a Commish. Bidding on Keane will conclude at 6pm Sunday (Pacific Time)

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 22

2011-08-11T21:02:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST vs ALLIANCE - The game of the week will have the feel of a playoff game. There will be no 2nd chances as each club needs to win to qualify for the 2011 Majors Cup. The Suns are the defending Majors Champions so the pressure to repeat is even more validated. Both clubs have had great seasons either way and the Suns will heading to the playoffs, but playing in meaningful games into September is at stake. PENNSYLVANIA vs GATEWAY UTD -This is like the game of the week part 2 almost. It will also have a playoff atmosphere. The winner of this match will also be going to the Majors Cup and the loser will not. The last time these two met, the Saints spanked the Stoners 5-0. UNION SC vs CD GUNNERS - The 2 time Honors Trophy Champions are playing for pride and a chance to tie its own best record and points in a season record. The Gunners are already guaranteed a busy post season. The Blues last league game of the season is an opportunity to take a rival down a peg. SECOND CITY vs ALAMO CITY - The Stars have only to wait to find out their semi final opponent next week in the playoffs and who their BSL opponent will be in Group B of the Majors Cup. The Battle are playing their last league game of the season but did already defeat Second City 3-1 earlier. PN RANGERS vs HILLCREST UTD- Two eyesoars in the BSL are coming to a close to be replaced with more passionate owners.

BIDDING WAR: Freddy Adu (PHI)

2011-08-11T20:34:00.000-07:00

Club Involved (6): Alamo City, Gateway United, CD Gunners, Pennsylvania, Burud Town, Gold Coast - He's back. Again. Freddy Adu is coming to Philadelphia. Several BSL owners appear interested in him too. The bidding war for Adu will end Saturday 6pm (Pacific)

BIDDING WAR: Luiz Camargo (HOU)

2011-08-10T21:04:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (2): CD Gunners, Burud Town - The Brazilian Midfielder is coming to the Dynamo. Bidding ends on Thursday 6pm(Pacific Time)

WEEK 21: Two Majors Cup Spots Are Still Available

2011-08-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

SECOND CITY 3 GATEWAY UTD 1 - Neither club looked playoff ready, but the Stars win helped the club clinch a spot in the Majors Cup. With the match tied 1-1, and the Saints already with 2 yellow cards, Bill Hamid's red card proved to be catastrophic by letting in Pardo as the 2nd substitution and his game winning goal. Patrick Nyarko would add in another score on Sunday, but the game was already won. The Stars are locked in place to be in Group B with the Seattle Sounders and Colorado Rapids when the tournament begins after the playoffs. The Saints are still not eliminated from MC qualifiers thanks to the schedule. Since the club plays Pennsylvania next week and Gold Coast/Alliance play each other next week, they could sneak in with 17 points. ALAMO CITY 6 UNION SC 1 - The Battle just love taking down the Blues. Continuing their dominance in this match-up, the Battle had their best game in weeks pounding the Blues defense to a 6-1 score. The loss eliminated Union SC for MC qualifications. CAPITAL DISTRICT 5 BURUD TOWN 4 - A stunning come from behind win by the Gunners was the clincher for the club to hoist a 2nd Honors Trophy and also played victim to Burud Town who will have to wait for next weeks results to see it their will be any Majors Cup post season action this season. The Stags were leading 4-3 after Saturday thanks to what appeared to be a game winning score from Juninho. With the present results in place, the Stags would have clinch an MC spot. But, Camino Sanvezzo's goal and assist on Sunday ended the party for Burud Town and completely changed the complexion for week 22. Burud Town is currently in a 4 way tie of 16 points in Majors Cup qualifiers, but is out of games to play. However, the Stags are ranked 2nd in scoring average pending any tiebreakers. The scenario is this. Burud Town needs Pennsylvania/Gateway to tie next week, and cannot have the Suns/Lions game end in a tie to clinch. PENNSYLVANIA 6 HILLCREST UTD 0 - The Stoners went from needing help to controling their own destiny in the final week. The club did what it had to do this week by defeating Hillcrest, but continues to be affected by the clubs poor APG. However, the good news now is the schedule. Why? In a 4 team race for the last 2 Majors Cup spots, two of those clubs (Alliance and Gold Coast) have to play each other next week and Burud Town is on a bye week. To put it simple, A Stoners win against the Saints in Week 22 and they are in. A loss and because of poor APG, are eliminated. ALLIANCE 6 PACIFIC NORTHWEST 0 - The Lions made quick work of the Rangers starting the game off with a hat trick from DeRosario. Next weeks showdown against the Suns will determine the clubs ability to enter some post season action. The Lions are ranked 1st in tiebreakers out of the 4 clubs tied with 16 qualifying points, but definitely need to win next week to avoid elimination.

AWARDS: Capital District Wins 2011 Honors Trophy

2011-08-07T19:08:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the Capital District Gunners owner for winning a 2nd Honors Trophy in 3 years. This marks the first time a BSL club has obtained more than 1 "League title". After losing opening day to Second City, the Gunners went on a 6 game unbeaten streak. Then after losing to Gold Coast, the club went on a 7 game unbeaten streak before losing to Pennsylvania. Now the Gunners are on a 5 game winning streak and currently hold a 14-3-2 record. A win next week in the regualr season finale would tie the clubs own record for "Best record in a season" at 15-3-2 that the Gunners did in 2009.

BIDDING WAR: Kevin Hartman (DAL)

2011-08-07T19:06:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (2): Alamo City, Gateway United - The former Burud Town Keeper was released to make way for Carlos Costly. Now a new bidding war has begun as 2 BSL clubs are looking to grab Hartman. The bidding for him ends Monday 6pm (Pacific).

RULEBOOK: Vote On Possible Rule Changes

2011-08-07T09:19:00.000-07:00

Before the regular season ends, there are a couple of rule changes that are being considered for next season that were emailed to me. Vote on each one and feel free to display an idea if you have one.

FIRST VOTE:

Changing the Multi Game Rule for an MLS position player - The current rule is to use the players average over the course of a week and then round his average up. The new idea/rule would change this to counting all his scores for the week. Vote "Yes" if you want to have an MLS player who plays 2 games in a week have all his scores count. Vote "No" if you want to keep te rule in place where the players average is counted. THIS IS ONLY FOR POSITION PLAYERS, KEEPER IS THIRD VOTE.

SECOND VOTE:

Changing the Bidding War voting system - The current rule allows you to vote as many times as you want until the bidding war time limit expires. The new idea/rule would changes this to allowing a BSL owner to have 1 bid only and force this BSL owner to gamble on who he is going to offer in the bidding war. Vote "Yes" if you want to have only 1 blind offer in a bidding war. Vote "No" if you want to keep it the way it is and have multiple chances to up the value of your bid for the new transfer player.

THIRD VOTE:

Changing the Goal Keeper Multi Game Rule - The current rule counts the average of a Keeper's clean sheet's and saves for a week if he plays 2 MLS games. The new rule would give a point for a clean sheet regardless of average or a saves point regardless of average. BE AWARE, This means a Keeper could have 4 points, 2 clean sheets and 2 saves points in a week he plays 2 games if this rule is approved. Vote "yes" if you want this change. Vote "no" if you want to stay with current Keeper rule of his averages.

Voting ends Friday 5pm (Pacific) If a majority votes yes out the the total of BSL club votes placed, the change will be done.

BIDDING WAR: Laurent Courtois (CHV)

2011-08-04T23:06:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (6): Gateway Utd, Gold Coast, CD Gunners, Union SC, Burud Town, Alliance FC - The French Midfielder is ready to go in Chivasland. Bidding for him ends 6pm (Pacific time) on Saturday.

BIDDING WAR: Daniel Cruz (DAL)

2011-08-04T23:05:00.001-07:00

Clubs Involved (4): Alliance FC, Burud Town, CD Gunners, Gateway Utd - The Hoops have a new Midfielder. Bidding ends for him on Saturday 6pm (Pacific time)

BIDDING WAR: Carlos Costly (HOU)

2011-08-04T22:55:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (5): Gateway Utd, CD Gunners, Burud Town, Alamo City, Union SC - The Honduran Striker will be joining the Dynamo soon. Bidding will end for him on Saturday 6pm (Pacific time).

BIDDING WAR: Caragilo (NE)

2011-08-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (7): Gateway United, Gold Coast, Alamo City, Union SC, Burud Town, CD Gunners, Alliance FC - The Revolution have just signed their first ever DP. The bidding on the Argentine Striker will end Thursday 6pm (Pacific Time). As usual any bids made after that time will not count.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 21

2011-08-01T21:53:00.000-07:00

SECOND CITY vs GATEWAY UTD- This is more than a playoff tune up game. This game of the week has Majors Cup implications written all over it. Geographically, these two are the only midwest clubs in the BSL, yet there seems to be no rivalry between them. PENNSYLVANIA vs HILLCREST UTD - The Stoners are in a great position to take advantage of the schedule and earn a big 3 points this week and put some real pressure on the clubs fighting for a Majors Cup spot. However, the last time the Stoners played the Rainbows it was a nail bitter with just 1 score. UNION SC vs ALAMO CITY - These two clubs meet up for the 9th time. So far the match-up has gone the Battle's way. The Blues will need to win this to avoid MC elimination. CAPITAL DISTRICT vs BURUD TOWN - The Stags last game of the regular season needs to be a good one. It's doubtful that the Stags current points total will be enough to hold onto its top 4 position for MC qualifying. More points seem necessary. Meanwhile the Gunners can win the 2011 Honors Trophy with a victory. ALLIANCE vs PACIFIC NORTHWEST - The Lions need to take advantage of the Rangers or the season will be lost.

WEEK 20: Playoff Clubs Are Set, Majors Still Unsettled

2011-07-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

GATEWAY UNITED 6 ALLIANCE FC 5 - The game of the week did not disappoint. The Saints jumped out to a quick lead when Landon Donovan scored 3 points on his own with 2 goals and a assist. The Lions would fight back with DeRosario's brace and a Ching brace. However the real storyline would go to Andy Najar who's assist would be taken away in the 70th minute with a red card. That ejection would prove to be huge as the clubs traded off more scores before the Saints would finish 1 higher. The red card was the difference in this classic as Gateway United clinched a spot in the BSL playoffs for the 2nd time in club history and also gave the Saints the 2011 Barium Cup. SECOND CITY 3 PN RANGERS 0 - The Stars are heading to the BSL playoffs doing what was expected by defeating the Rangers. Congratulations to the first year club. GOLD COAST 2 ALAMO CITY 1 - The Suns narrowly missed the BSL playoffs in 2010, but thanks to Geoff Cameron's game winner, will be heading to this years playoffs. The club still has a mathematical chance at the Honors Trophy, but will need the CD Gunners to stumble to close out the regular season. UNION SC 3 HILLCREST UNITED 0 - The Blues got a brace from Collin Clark and a goal from Mastroeni to keep hope alive in the pursuit of making the 2011 Majors Cup tournament. PENNSYLVANIA 2 BURUD TOWN 1 - The Stoners win may have kept the club alive for some MC action, but it killed Burud Town's playoff aspirations. The Stags will not be returning to the BSL playoffs and will have to hope for a good showing in the clubs finale next week to see where it will finish in MC qualifiers. The Stags bye week is in Week 22.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 20

2011-07-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

ALLIANCE vs GATEWAY UTD - The 2nd leg of the Barium Cup comes at a pivatal moment in the season when both clubs are in real need of points. The Lions need points to stay in the top 4 for Majors Cup. The Saints need points to stay in the top 4 of the BSL. BURUD TOWN vs PENNSYLVANIA - Neither club can afford to lose this game. The Stags are in 3rd place in the Majors Cup qualifiers and 5th place in the BSL standings. Its also important to note that the club has only 2 regular season games left. The Stoners need maximum points to close out the club's schedule. GOLD COAST vs ALAMO CITY - The Suns can clinch a playoff spot with a win this weekend but needs wins to close out the season to have any shot to defend its Majors Cup trophy. UNION SC vs HILLCREST UTD - This match up couldn't have come at a better time. The Blues are playing their best ball of the season and still have a shot to sneak into a Majors Cup slot. SECOND CITY vs PN RANGERS - The Stars are in the running to have a long post season in their inaugural campaign and have an easy game on tap this weekend to help.

WEEK 19: Gunners Clinch Playoff and Majors Spot

2011-07-23T23:14:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 4 GATEWAY UNITED 1 - The Gunners may have just sealed the deal on winning the 2011 Honors Trophy. It's not official yet, but it is real close. In the mean time the club will have to settle with clinching a playoff spot and a Majors Cup spot. That is right if you look at the Majors Cup Group standings the Gunners are currently in Group A at the moment along with the Galaxy (who are #1 in the MLS candidates) and Toronto (#4 for MLS candidates as of 7/23) The win over the Saints started off with Richards score being taken away with a red card. But with the game tied 1-1, new addition Jeferson broke it open and Saborio added some insurance for the Gunners. SECOND CITY 3 ALLIANCE 2 - The Stars moved up into 3rd place in the BSL standings after handing the Lions a 2nd straight loss. Koevermans had the game winning goal. The results almost ends the Lions chance at the playoffs and the club is barely handing on to its Majors Cup 4th place position. Second City meanwhile is 1 win or 1 Burud Town loss away from clinching a playoff spot. UNION SC 3 PENNSYLVANIA 1 - The Stoners also suffered a devasting loss which will make it difficult to reach the playoffs. While not officially eliminated, the Stoners might have to focus on Majors Cup qualifiers for the remainder of the season. The Blues are playing the role of spoiler very well and are making the club win-loss record respectable again. GOLD COAST 6 HILLCREST UNITED 0 - The Suns took care of business and mowed down the Rainbows. The BSL playoffs seem almost certain needing only 1 more point to clinch, but are on the outside in 5th place currently in Majors Cup qualifiers. BURUD TOWN 6 PN RANGERS 0 - The Stags are the thorn in the top 4's side right now. The club is the last real bonified challenger to change the league's current top 4. Burud Town has very little room for error and almost certainly needs to win its last 2 games of the season.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 19

2011-07-19T21:20:00.001-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT vs GATEWAY UTD - The game of the week features a couple of BSL originals with plenty of history against one another. In this match, the Saints must win in order to challenge for the Honors Trophy. A victory for the Gunners and the club might have another trophy to brag about and at the very least clinch a playoff spot. SECOND CITY vs ALLIANCE FC - The Stars are holding onto 4th place at the moment and this could be the biggest game in the clubs history. The Lions need to win this weekend. A loss would be killer. This match has the potential to be a 6 point swing in the standings. PENNSYLVANIA vs UNION SC - The Stoners have been awesome in the crunch and will need to pick up 3 points to stay in the race. There is little room for error. BURUD TOWN vs PN RANGERS - The Stags are in 5th place should be scoreboard watching the Second City/Alliance game while looking for 3 points against the Rangers. GOLD COAST vs HILLCREST UTD - The Suns should win this match and hope that the Saints win this week also in order to have a shot at the Honors Trophy.

WEEK 18: Time is Running Out for Some Clubs

2011-07-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 5 ALLIANCE FC 1- The Gunners made it look easy against a confident Lions club and took another step closer to the Honors Trophy. Meanwhile the loss may cost Alliance a shot at the playoffs as the race to the top 4 will require some assistance from other clubs faltering. The Gunners are 1 point away from clinching a playoff spot. BURUD TOWN 2 GOLD COAST 0 - The Stags finally got a win against the Suns and it came at a great time. The win keeps the Stags in playoff contention. The Suns are now 6 points behind for first place in the BSL. GATEWAY UNITED 5 ALAMO CITY 0 - The Saints got their 9th win of the season after thrashing the Battle 5-0. Will Hesmer had an impressive showing with a clean sheet and 5 saves. UNION SC 3 PN RANGERS 0 - The Blues still might have a chance to sneak into the Majors Cup having picked up another 3 points, but will need to deliver against more quality opponents to really make some noise. SECOND CITY 3 HILLCREST UNITED 0 - The Stars inched another step closer to securing a playoff spot in their inaugural season.

BIDDING WAR: Jeferson Rodigues (SKC)

2011-07-17T20:51:00.000-07:00

Clubs involved (4): CD Gunners, Second City, Alamo City, Gateway United - Bids for Jeferson will conclude at 6pm (Pacific time) on Tuesday 7/19. Good luck.

BIDDING WAR: Mustapha Jarju (VAN)

2011-07-13T22:02:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (8): Alamo City, Gateway United, Gold Coast, Burud Town, Pennsylvania, Second City, Union SC, Alliance FC - Practically every owner in the BSL is seeing value in the latest addition to the Whitecaps. This bidding war should be interesting. The bidding ends at 6pm (Pacific Time) Friday the 15th to allow time to place him on his new BSL roster for week 18. Any bids not placed on this post in time will not count. Good luck.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 18

2011-07-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

The game of the week could be the biggest match in the short history of Alliance FC. A win could propell the club into serious contention for the playoffs with only a few regular season games left. A loss to the Gunners could put the Lions in too deep a hole to catch up. Meanwhile the Gunners are trying to hang onto first place in both the BSL standings and Majors Cup qualifying. Gateway United needs to find a way to take down its nemesis Alamo City to stay in the Honor's trophy race. The Saints have a league low 2 losses on the season, but 5 draws. The Battle really need a win to keep the season alive. Gold Coast will try and remain perfect against Burud Town as the club sits 3 points behind first place. Second City will be the clear favorite this week to grab the clubs 10th win on the season playing Hillcrest United, and Union SC rounds out the schedule playing the Rangers. Pennsylvania has the week off.

BIDDING WAR: Frank Rost (NYRB)

2011-07-13T21:47:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (2): Alamo City, Burud Town - The RedBulls have a new keeper. The deadline on this bidding war is 6pm Pacific Time on Friday 7/15. The winning club will have the option to add Rost to the line-up in time for Week 18 which starts Saturday the 16th. Good luck.

WEEK 17: Race for Honor's Trophy is Heating Up

2011-07-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST 6 UNION SC 2 - The 2nd leg of the California Cup rivalry offered little drama as the Suns dominated from the get-go building a commanding lead and never looking back. The victory brings home the Cup to Northern California for the first time and is Gold Coast FC's 2nd trophy in the Clubs history. The win also keeps the Suns in striking distance of the Honors Trophy with only 4 games left on the season. Meanwhile Union SC's miserable season continues as the clubs last chance at some hardware has been erased. There will be no repeat of the BSL Cup, No entry to the 2011 Majors Cup, and no California Cup. SECOND CITY 6 BURUD TOWN 4 - A epic fight between two contending clubs ended with the Stars picking up a huge 3 points. In a game full of scores, Jon Busch's 5 saves and clean sheet was the difference. PENNSYLVANIA 3 ALAMO CITY 2 - Another week, another huge win for the Stoners. The never say die club from PA, continues to find late scorers to edge out opponents. This time Perlaza's goal on Sunday was the game winner. The Stoners could be the dark horse to make the BSL playoffs even though the club has not been in the top 4 in many weeks. GATEWAY UTD 6 HILLCREST UTD 0 - The battle of United's was easy to predict before the match even started and the Saints served up an impressive win to keep the club in the race for the Honors Trophy. CAPITAL DISTRICT 5 PACIFIC NORTHWEST 0 - With an entire league chasing, the Gunners took apart the easy Rangers to stay in first place in the BSL Standings and reclaimed first place in the Majors Cup table.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 17

2011-07-05T18:57:00.001-07:00

UNION SC vs GOLD COAST - The 2nd leg of the California Cup is also the game of the week. The Suns took the first leg 5-4 and are currently in 2nd place in the BSL standings. SECOND CITY vs BURUD TOWN - Both clubs are on the outside looking in for a playoff spot so a win in this game will be huge. ALAMO CITY vs PENNSYLVANIA - The Stoners are coming off a huge win. Both clubs are in need of a win to stay close to the top 4. CD GUNNERS vs PN RANGERS - The Gunners get a chance to maintain first place with only 5 regular season games remaining for the club. GATEWAY UTD vs HILLCREST UTD - The Saints return from a bye week hoping to avoid a major upset.

WEEK 16: Alliance Unbeaten Streak at 9 Games

2011-07-04T22:27:00.000-07:00

ALLIANCE 5 ALAMO CITY 4 - Its official, the Lions are good. After another win this week, the club is 7-0-2 after a 1-5-0 start to the season, and has now moved up to its highest position ever. Alliance currently owns third place in the BSL standings and first place in the Majors Cup qualifiers. In the Lions first ever game of the week, the club wasted no time building up a 4 -0 lead before the Battle began to cut into the scoreline. However Pickens clean sheet nailed down another win for the Chancellor. PENNSYLVANIA 4 CAPITAL DISTRICT 2 - A lineup failure couldn't slow down the Stoners this week as the club dismantled the first place Gunners. This is perhaps the biggest win in the Partnership's history defeating a top seeded club and keeping the clubs playoff hopes alive. UNION SC 2 SECOND CITY 1 - Finally the Blues were able to pick up a victory. Its been a long time and thankfully a lineup failure from the Stars made it all possible. Joseph's late goal broke the 1-1 deadlock. GOLD COAST 2 PN RANGERS 0 - The Suns earned the clubs 9th win on the season and picked up ground on the first place Gunners after defeating the Rangers. BURUD TOWN 4 HILLCREST UNITED 0 - The Stags got 2 points from Kevin Hartman to easily defeat the Rainbows and keep pace in the playoff race while also maintaining a Majors Cup top 4 position.

BIDDING WAR: Koevermans (TFC)

2011-07-02T13:19:00.000-07:00

Clubs involved (5): Alamo City, Burud Town, Second City, CD Gunners, Alliance FC - The bidding war on this TFC addition will also conclude on Monday at 5pm (Pacific time). Leave your bids for this player on the comments of this post.

BIDDING WAR: Frings (TOR)

2011-07-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (5): Gold Coast, Second City, Gateway United, CD Gunners, Burud Town - The new TFC Midfielder bidding war will conclude Monday at 5pm (Pacific time). Place all bids in the comments of this post.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 16

2011-06-28T20:47:00.000-07:00

ALLIANCE vs ALAMO CITY - The game of the week features the streaking Lions in a key match against another playoff hopeful, the Battle. Both clubs are 7-5-2 and just outside the top 4 spots in the league. PENNSYLVANIA vs CAPITAL DISTRICT - The Gunners now have a 6 point lead for first place in the BSL standings thanks to a current 7 game unbeaten streak. UNION SC vs SECOND CITY - The defending champs have been reduced to the role of spoiler for remainder of the 2011 season. One of the few bright spots this year for the Blues was a 2-1 win over the Stars earlier this season. GOLD COAST vs PN RANGERS - The Suns will look continue the momentum the club had from last week. BURUD TOWN vs HILLCREST UTD - The Stags need a win and this week is the perfect opportunity to get one. However, the last time the club faced the Rainbows, it resulted in a shocking 0-0 tie.

WEEK 15: Contenders Unable to Maximize Points

2011-06-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 7 SECOND CITY 4 - The game of the week got off to an interesting start when the Stars were late on lineup selection. The Gunners began the scoring with Richards and Pontius grabbing goals in weekday action and then the action really heated up. Second City would mount an impressive comeback tieing the score at 4-4, before the Gunners reclaimed the lead with Mendoza's 2 goals and Rosales adding more insurance. In a match full of drama, there were even more headlines. Donovan Ricketts played 24 minutes before suffering yet another Gunners team injury, but was rewarded a clean sheet with some help from his friends. UNION SC 4 GATEWAY UTD 4 - The Blues continue to score points and find ways to avoid wins. This time in a great fight against the rival Saints, the club matched the men in green pound for pound. After Lindpere scored, Alonso would equalize. After Davies scored, Mapp would equalize. After Mwanga scored, Clark would equalize. Then the Blues jinx came into play once again. Nielsen had 7 saves in game one of the week, only to have only 2 saves on the weekend to blow the SP average. Then the Blues had yellow cards from Alonso and Nielsen to allow Friberg to come in off the bench for the Saints and he scored. Brek Shea's late goal would equalize the score again. Then on Sunday Conor Casey scored the game winner. But wait!!! He later was ejected with a red card and the game winner was taken away. So many opportunities to win what could have been the biggest 3 points of the season and those chances were wasted. GOLD COAST 5 PENNSYLVANIA 2 - After struggling on offense for the last 2 weeks which dropped the Suns from first place, the Burgundy boys found the net in a 5-2 romp over the Stoners. Omar Bravo had his best week since opening day, and Kyle Beckerman was on fire with 3 assist for a 2 point average. ALLIANCE 2 BURUD TOWN 1 - The Lions extended their unbeaten streak to 8 games (6-0-2) after narrowly defeating the Stags. The game winner came off a Maicon Santos goal. ALAMO CITY 0 HILLCREST UTD 0 - The biggest upset of the week came from the Battle's inability to get a score off of the Rainbows and capture 3 points in the standings.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 15

2011-06-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

SECOND CITY vs CAPITAL DISTRICT - The game of the week features the best team in the league versus 2nd place. Neither club has been lighting it up since the Gold Cup started but the result of this match will be huge. GOLD COAST vs PENNSYLVANIA - Both clubs are in need of points to stay in the playoff race. The Suns are in the top 4 currently but have lost 2 in a row. UNION SC vs GATEWAY UTD - The rivalry continues but these clubs are far from playing for the same things. The Blues season appears to be over for all trophies, while the Saints are in position to fight for everything. ALAMO CITY vs HILLCREST UTD -Knocked into 5th place in the BSL standings, the Battle can use this match to regroup and possibly get back into the top 4. ALLIANCE vs BURUD TOWN - A couple of the hotter teams in the league meet up in a big game. The winner will continue to inch closer to taking over a playoff position, while the loser will be forced to play more catch up.

WEEK 14: Gunners Remain in First Place

2011-06-19T22:03:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 2 ALAMO CITY 0 - The Gunners keep finding way to win and stay in first place. Once again the club had 2 scores and held onto the lead. The Battle actually tied the game up at 2-2 in the closing minutes with a goal and assist from Henry on Sunday until in the 93rd minute he received a red card eliminating his scores. SECOND CITY 2 GOLD COAST 1 - In a possible playoff preview, it was the Stars that took home the victory in this game. Chiumiento opened the scoring, and Matt Reis had 4 and 6 saves in this weeks action to average a saves point. Patrick Nyarko scored the game winner. GATEWAY UNITED 4 PACIFIC NORTHWEST 0 - The Saints moved back into the top 4 in the league after easily defeating the Rangers. Jack Jewsbury had a brace with a goal and an assist. BURUD TOWN 4 UNION SC 3 - The Blues continue to fall short in trying to snap the clubs losing streak. Once again the club blew a lead. After jumping up front with 3 scores, the Stags came back and sealed the deal with Jacobson's goal and assist that served as both the equalizer and the game winner. ALLIANCE 1 PENNSYLVANIA 1 - The Lions were tammed for the moment scoring only 1 point this week against the Stoners. The draw continues the clubs unbeaten streak at 7 games, while both clubs failed to make any significant ground in the playoff race.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 14

2011-06-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT vs ALAMO CITY - This derby is also the game of the week. If the season had ended yesterday, this would be a semi final playoff match up of #1 versus #4. The Gunners have owned this match up historically, but the Battle can still claim the biggest win between these two rivals and that ofcourse is winning the BSL Final these two play in 2009. A win for the Battle this week will really add drama to this years Honors Trophy race. However, a Gunners win might push Alamo City too far behind with fewer games on the schedule. ALLIANCE vs PENNSYLVANIA - Both clubs are 6-5-1, but the Lions are the hotter team. With both clubs in the playoff race, this is a huge 3 points up for grabs. SECOND CITY vs GOLD COAST - The schedule continues to play tricks as once again these two clubs would be playing in a Semi Final playoff match if the season had ended yesterday. The current #2 and #3 ranked clubs meet up, but the last time the Stars creamed the Suns by a 7-2 score. UNION SC vs BURUD TOWN - The Blues need a win really bad to try and end a 4 game losing streak. The club has had success against the Stags, but lost 3-1 in the last match up. Burud Town may be in 8th place, but is in the thick of the playoff race and with all the big match up's this week could really move up the standings with a win against Union SC. GATEWAY UTD vs PN RANGERS - The Saints are looking for their first win after 4 straight games of ties and a defeat. Well this is the perfect opportunity to recoup after getting through a very tough part of the clubs schedule.

WEEK 13: Wasted Sub Scores Cost Plenty of Clubs

2011-06-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

CAPITAL DISTRICT 2 GOLD COAST 0 - The Gunners scored first this week overall and it turned out to be the game winner in this match and kept the club in first place in the BSL. This was the Gunners 8th win on the season, one better than all of last season and the clubs 30th regular season win all-time. The Suns will need to regroup after its worst offensive showing of the year. The Gunners also have a perfect 6 points in Majors Cup qualifying, but did drop to a tiebreaking 2nd place in that table. SECOND CITY 3 PENNSYLVANIA 1 - Scores from Davis, Dawkins, and Wolff, lead the Stars to a 2nd win over the Stoners this season. The win puts Second City back in the top 4 of the BSL standings. BURUD TOWN 2 GATEWAY UNITED 0 - The Stags remain unbeaten against the Saints all-time, improving to a 3-0-2 record overall against the men in green. It was a huge win for Burud Town keeping the club in the playoff race. Meanwhile the Saints are out of the top 4 for the first time this entire season and were shut out for the first time in 33 regular season games (39 total counting playoffs and MC games) To make matters worse, Alan Gordons 2 scores could have tied the game if only Burud Town would have had one more yellow card. ALLIANCE 4 HILLCREST UNITED 0 - The Lions unbeaten streak extends to 6 games and the club has its first winning record since starting the season 1-0-0. Also the Lions have a perfect 6 points in Majors Cup qualifying and lead that table. ALAMO CITY 5 PACIFIC NORTHWEST 0 - The Battle could have broken the single game scoring record if not for leaving 5 points on the sub list. Last week's hero, Steven Lenhart, scored 4 points this week, but did not make the starting squad. Folan also had a point. In total Alamo City had 10 scores, only need 1 score to win a weak Rangers team, and ended up winning 5-0. More good news is the Battle moved into the top 4 of the BSL standings and Majors Cup qualifying in the same week.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 13

2011-06-06T23:02:00.000-07:00

CD GUNNERS vs GOLD COAST- The game of the week features two clubs leading the league with 23 points in the standings. Only APG is giving the Gunners the edge right now. The winner of this game will take over sole possession of the top spot. PENNSYLVANIA vs SECOND CITY- Both clubs have winning records and are in the playoff hunt. The last time these two played each other, the Stoners failed to score a single offensive point. ALLIANCE vs HILLCREST UTD - The surging Lions will be the clear favorites this week against the Rainbows. ALAMO CITY vs PN RANGERS - The Battle might be able to sneak into the top 4 of the BSL standings with a win over the Rangers. BURUD TOWN vs GATEWAY UTD - The Saints might be happy to not be in the game of the week, but the opponent will be just as tough against the Stags.

WEEK 12: Limited Rosters Bring Tighter Scorelines

2011-06-05T18:51:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST 1 GATEWAY UNITED 1 -The Suns were unable to hold onto a 1-0 lead that was established with a 7 save performance by Matt Reis. Danny Mwanga's late goal earned the Saints the clubs third tie in a row in the clubs third "game of the week" in a row. With each club earning a point in the standings, Gold Coast retains first place and Gateway United remains only 1 point behind, but does drop to third place in what is shaping up to be the tightest race for the Honors Trophy ever. In years past, the standings leader has been a runaway. BURUD TOWN 2 ALAMO CITY 2 - The Stags controled this match early with scores from Hartman and Espindola. Alamo City cut the lead in half with a Nick Rimando clean sheet, but it was the heroics of Lenhart that gave the Battle the clubs first ever point against Burud Town. ALLIANCE 2 UNION SC 1 - The Lions evened the clubs record to 5-5-1 thanks to scores from Rodgers and Chavez. After stumbling to a 1-5-0 record, the Lions are 4-0-1 since. At this pace the playoffs are still a real possibilty. Meanwhile, the Blues have lost 4 straight now and have put the playoff picture behind. The target for the 2010 BSL Cup Champions has become the 2011 Majors Cup. CAPITAL DISTRICT 3 HILLCREST UNITED 1 - The Gunners scored first this week with a Camino goal on Wednesday. Then the Gunners scored 2nd this week with a Josh Saunders clean sheet on Friday. Castillo added some insurance over the weekend. Hillcrest did make news by managing a score. Yes, Alexandre's brace earned the Rainbows an offensive point even with a lineup failure. PENNSYLVANIA 1 PACIFIC NORTHWEST 0 - Timing is everything. A week after the Stoners needed every bit of its 5 scores to beat Union SC, in this match the club managed just one score. Lucky for the Stoners it would be enough against the lowly Rangers. Frei had a clean sheet for the Rangers too, but that was taken away in a lineup failure. Pennsylvania did just enough to grab 3 points.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 12

2011-05-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST vs GATEWAY UTD - For the third week in a row the Saints are in the game of the week. Even though the club has lost only once this season, back to back ties have moved the Saints out of first place. This weeks opponent owns that position in Gold Coast FC. The Suns 7 wins are best in the league. UNION SC vs ALLIANCE FC - The hottest club in the BSL is currently in 8th place and charging up. The Lions are playing their best football right now. The Blues are on a 3 game losing streak and could really use this match to get Majors Cup qualifying off on the right path. ALAMO CITY vs BURUD TOWN - Coming off a bye week, the Battle resume league play only 1 point shy of a playoff position. Winners of 4 of its last 5, the club must try and find a way to turn the tables around on a Stags club that has owned this match up. Burud Town has outscored the Battle 18-8 all time. PENNSYLVANIA vs PN RANGERS - Coming off the clubs biggest win in its short history, the Stoners are in the thick of the playoff race. A clear favorite this week, this is the perfect opportunity for the Partnership to improve the clubs stats. CD GUNNERS vs HILLCREST UTD - The Gunners overcame a 5 point deficit to earn a point last week. That will probably not be necessary this week against the Rainbows. With first and second place playing each other this week, the Gunners might easily move up the standings by weeks end.

WEEK 11: No Lead Was Safe This Week

2011-05-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

GATEWAY UTD 5 CAPITAL DISTRICT 5 - The Saints jumped to an early lead when Donovan scored on a PK and Joel Lindpere had an assist on Wednesday. Then Danny Mwanga caught fire with 2 goals and an assist early in Saturdays action. However, the Gunners would fight back with assists from Montero and Pappa. Ricketts had 2 clean sheets in the week to average a point for his team. Then Chris Pontius completed the comeback with a goal and assist on Sunday to salvage a tie for the Gunners. ALLIANCE 5 SECOND CITY 3 - The turn around for the Lions continues as club earned its 4th win of the season after defeating a very strong Stars team. Maicon Santos had 2 goals and Luke Rodgers continues to play well in New York. Brad Davis had 2 assist in response for Second City. PENNSYLVANIA 5 UNION SC 4 - Two struggling offenses came out of their shells in a classic match. Union SC took the early lead with Mastroeni and Shea scores. Then the Stoners fought back with LeToux and Oduro scores. Union SC reclaimed the lead literally minutes later when Wondolowski netted a goal. Then again real time a mere minutes later Bunbury equalized for the Stoners. Colin Clark gave the Blues another lead before Saturday ended. It appeared as if Union SC was sitting on a slim 4-3 lead, but it turns out LeToux had a second score to tie the game again at 4-4. Then on Sunday Perlaza gave Pennsylvania their first lead of the game and the game winner. A huge win for the Stoners and a huge defeat for the Blues. Also in this match Union SC wasted 2 goals from Mapp, 2 scores from Ekpo and a goal from Casey on the bench. Pennsylvania left a Ryan Smith goal on the bench as well. This result is sure to haunt Union SC for the remainder of the season. BURUD TOWN 4 PACIFIC NORTHWEST 0 - The Stags made easy work of the Rangers scoring early and often including an assist from Justin Braun and Nate Jaqua. GOLD COAST 3 HILLCREST UTD 0 - The Suns got their 7th win of the season after easily defeating Hillcrest thanks to scores from Cam Weaver and David Beckham.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 11

2011-05-23T20:52:00.001-07:00

GATEWAY UTD vs CD GUNNERS - Two BSL originals go head to head in the game of the week. The Saints hold first place currently, but a loss to the Gunners would change the standings completely. Overall the Gunners have owned the match up, but Gateway United did win the last time these clubs faced each other. ALLIANCE vs SECOND CITY - The Stars scoring average has dropped recently but still have 19 points on the season standings. The Lions will look to continue the clubs new positive momentum. UNION SC vs PENNSYLVANIA - Two clubs in the middle of the pack and in real need of a victory. Both offenses have struggled so points may be at a premium. PN RANGERS vs BURUD TOWN - The Stags have struggled since losing several key players to injuries but should ahve enough to take down the Rangers. GOLD COAST vs HILLCREST UTD - This game could be over by Wednesday as the Suns are the odds on favorite to pick up an easy win. This could be a real blowout.

WEEK 10: Five Clubs Are 2 Points Apart For 1st Place

2011-05-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

GATEWAY UNITED 1 SECOND CITY 1- Two of the leagues better offenses and each club could only muster a single score. The result keeps the Saints in first place and the Stars close behind, but several other BSL clubs are now breathing down their necks. ALAMO CITY 2 UNION SC 1 - The Battle picked up the clubs 5th win in the last 6 games after narrowly defeating the Blues. The scoring started with Koko's goal, but Wondolowski would equalize. After Alhassan broke the deadlock, it looked as if the Blues would tie it up again until Nielsen's clean sheet was robbed in stoppage time. CAPITAL DISTRICT 2 BURUD TOWN 1 - Dane Richards early goal was the difference in this game as each clubs keepers found success with their own clean sheets. The win put the Gunners only 1 point from first place. ALLIANCE 3 PACIFIC NORTHWEST 0 - The Lions controlled the game from start to finish getting scores all weekend long including a header from Chad Barrett, an assist from Luke Rodgers and a clean sheet from Matt Pickens. Alliance may be still near the bottom of the standings at the current moment, but the club has picked up 7 points in the last 3 games and with Majors Cup qualifying starting soon, may soon be a consideration for a Majors Cup spot. PENNSYLVANIA 1 HILLCREST UNITED 0 - The Stoners wasted 3 goals from 3 players on the bench, but managed to avoid an embarrassing result thanks to Carlos Ruiz. His goal was the only one from the Stoners roster that actually counted.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 10

2011-05-16T21:15:00.001-07:00

GATEWAY UTD vs SECOND CITY - It's going to be the fight for first place as these two clubs bring a combined 12 wins to the pitch. Also these clubs are tied for the league lead in MOV with plus 14 margins.

ALLIANCE vs PN RANGERS - The Lions showed real promise last week putting the Suns to the test. Now the club has a great chance to pick up 3 points in the standings against the lowly Rangers.

UNION SC vs ALAMO CITY - The Battle have won 4 0f 5 since starting the season 1-3-0 and have owned the Blues with the exception of the last time these two clubs meet which was a Majors Cup game.

CD GUNNERS vs BURUD TOWN - The Stags return from their bye week stuck in the middle of the standings. So far the season have been a mixture of both very positive and very negative results. Injuries have played their part. Meanwhile the Gunners have been able to sustain success even though the club has also been hit by a rash of injuries.

PENNSYLVANIA vs HILLCREST UTD - The Partnership needs a win and the Rainbows are just the club to help with that. Coming off the clubs worst match of the season, the Stoners should have enough to rebound and pick up 3 points.

WEEK 9: Top of the Table Remains Close

2011-05-15T19:47:00.000-07:00

ALAMO CITY 3 SECOND CITY 1 - The Stars may have scored first off a Chiumiento goal, but the rest of the club was unable to add to the lead. Meanwhile, the Battle got going when Plata scored twice after blanking earlier in the week, to average 1 point. Nick Rimando's clean sheet broke the deadlock and Henry brought Alamo City an insurance goal. The loss dropped Second City out of first place.

CD GUNNERS 4 UNION SC 3 - The clock ran out for the Blues in this back and forth affair. Union SC opened the scoring off a Wondolowski goal. He would score again later this week, but his average would remain 1 point. Marco Pappa would equalize for the Gunners. Then Joseph gave the Blue the advantage again with his goal before Castillo scored twice to average a point as well. Chris Pontius gave the Gunners their first lead of the game and then Brek Shea tied the game up for the third time. The game winner came from Freddy Montero.

ALLIANCE 3 GOLD COAST 3 - Matt Reis' clean sheet and 5 saves and David Beckham's beautiful free kick almost delivered the Suns another victory. However, the Lions refused to lose this match as DeRosario's late goal ended this game in a tie.

GATEWAY UTD 5 PENNSYLVANIA 0 - The Saints scored the first 2 goals of the week on Wednesday with Donovan and Mwanga each delivering. Landon Donovan would score another 2 goals totaling 3 for the week and averaging 2 points. The game was all Gateway United as Ryan Johnson scored in both his games this week to average another point and Fernandez contributed too.

HILLCREST UTD 0 PN RANGERS 0 - The Rangers got an assist from Marquez, but its lineup failure would cost the club 3 points in the standings. Frei did come close to bring the Rangers the game winner but came 1 save short with 4 saves on the week average.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 9

2011-05-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST vs ALLIANCE- The Suns are on a 4 game winning streak including wins over established opponents like Burud Town, Alamo City, and Capital District. So naturally the club has to be the favorite in this one. The Lions managed to get a win last week, but really needs a big win to begin to make a name for itself.

GATEWAY UTD vs PENNSYLVANIA- The Saints have dropped to third place in the standings even though the club has lost only once so far in 2011. The Stoners have lost 2 straight games by a margin of 8 points. The addition of Juan Pablo Angel might be just what the doctor ordered.

UNION SC vs CD GUNNERS - The Blues come off a bye week in search of a 4th straight win. However, the easy part of the schedule is over and now the club will have to figure out how to score more. The Gunners have been hit by the injury bug but are clinging to a playoff spot currently. Union SC has a slight edge over the Gunners in the all time series.

ALAMO CITY vs SECOND CITY- The match of the week features the 6-1 Stars against the explosive Battle who have won 3 of their last 4 games. Alamo City has made some bold moves and has picked up some major players off the transfer window. The verdict is out on whether they will perform.

HILLCREST UTD vs PN RANGERS - Winless. Poorly created and now abandoned clubs, this match couldn't be less interesting.

WEEK 8: Suns Moving Up the Standings

2011-05-08T00:15:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST 4 CD GUNNERS 2- The Suns continue to win big games and have to be considered a strong contender for the BSL Cup. This week, the club had the league high of 4 points in a soft scoring weekend. Renteria scored the game winner. The Gunners had their unbeaten streak snapped. It was the clubs first loss since opening day.

GATEWAY UTD 2 BURUD TOWN 2- The Saints still have not found a way to get 3 points against Burud Town. In this match, Gateway United had more production on the pitch, but could only muster 2 points on the scoreboard. Charlie Davies opened the scoring with a goal and assist, but played again on Saturday bringing his average to 1. Friberg and Jewsbury had scores wasted on the bench. The Stags got the most out of their opportunities including 7 saves from Kennedy.

SECOND CITY 3 PENNSYLVANIA 0 - Remaining in first place, the Stars picked up the clubs league high 6th win after defeating the Stoners. Wolff's goal and assist averaged out to a point and Coundoul garnered 7 saves. Pennsylvania had a very quiet game and could not take advantage of the 3 yellow cards Second City had this week.

ALAMO CITY 3 PN RANGERS 0 - The Battle had an easy time against the Rangers with scores from Folan, Henry and Rimando to pick up the clubs 4th win on the season and improved to 4-4-0 in the standings.

ALLIANCE 2 HILLCREST UTD 0 - The losing streak ended at 5 games for the Lions and the men in black picked up its first win since week 1. Andy Najar had 2 assist very early in the week to average 1 point after playing 2 games on the schedule.

BIDDING WAR: C.Nazarits (CHI)

2011-05-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

Clubs Involved (3):
SECOND CITY
BURUD TOWN
ALAMO CITY

The new Chicago Fire Forward will be available for bidding until Saturday the 7th at 8am (Pacific Time) Any bids made after that time will not count.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 8

2011-05-02T22:59:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST vs CD GUNNERS - The match of the week features two clubs with a combined 9 wins on the season. Could this be a possible playoff preview?

GATEWAY UTD vs BURUD TOWN - The Stags took the season series from the Saints in 2010 and are coming off their best result of this year. Gateway United is currently in 2nd place but only by the slimmest of margins.

ALAMO CITY vs PN RANGERS - The Battle should be able to take advantage of a Rangers club sitting near the bottom of the standings.

SECOND CITY vs PENNSYLVANIA - The Stars have the added pressure of being on top of the entire league now. The Stoners have to put last week aside and focus on this big game.

ALLIANCE FC vs HILLCREST UTD - One of these clubs should have their losing streak end after this match is done. The odds are the Lions should be that club.

WEEK 7: First Place Changes Hands Again

2011-05-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

BOXSCORES
GATEWAY UTD 2 ALLIANCE 1 - The Saints needed a 2nd half Sunday goal by Landon Donovan to get the clubs 5th win on the season. After DeRosario's assist and Fernandez's goal, the score remained tied for much of the match. The Lions suffer another 1 point loss. In the clubs 5 straight losses, 4 of them have been by 1 point.

BURUD TOWN 7 PENNSYLVANIA 2 -The Stags broke out of their scoring slump in a big way. Lead by Will Bruin's 3 goals Burud Town would finish with 7 points on the week to easily defeat Pennyslvania and end the Stoners unbeaten run at 4 games. The Stoners did mount an early comeback after Bruin's hat trick, bringing the score to 3-2, thanks to another Mondragon clean sheet and a LeToux PK. However, the rest of the weekend was all Stags.

UNION SC 2 HILLCREST UTD 0 - The Blues finished off the easy part of their schedule doing what needed to be done and that was grab 6 points in the standings. Neilsen's 5 saves was the game winner.

GOLD COAST 7 ALAMO CITY 3 - The Battle got a taste of their own medicine having an opponent put up 7 points. The Suns were relentless and improved to 5-2-0 on the season. Moreno had a BSL hat trick, and 3 other starters added to the scoresheet. If Brad Evans would have ever gotten into the game, the Suns would have had another hat trick and could have broken the BSL scoring record. But, Evans, 3 points never got in. Alamo City did score 3 times and made the game respectable.

SECOND CITY 3 PN RANGERS 0 - The Stars cruised early in this match getting a pair of assist from Brad Davis on Friday. Coundoul added addition insurance with a clean sheet. Second City takes over first place in the league standings with a very slim tie breaker over Gateway United who has the same win-loss record.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 7

2011-04-25T20:12:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST vs ALAMO CITY - The match of the week has the Suns holding onto a playoff spot with a 4-2 record and the Battle who have scored 14 points in the last 2 games.

GATEWAY UTD vs ALLIANCE FC - The first leg of the 2011 Barium Cup. The Saints experienced their first loss since 2010. The Lions are trying to capture their first league win since week 1.

UNION SC vs HILLCREST UTD - The Blues get a chance to build even more momentum playing a Rainbows club that is the laughing stock of the BSL. The ownership group bailed after creating the most questionable roster ever in the leagues history.

PENNSYLVANIA vs BURUD TOWN - The Stoners return from their bye week riding a 4 game unbeaten streak. The Stags continue to make roster moves hoping to spark the clubs offense.

SECOND CITY vs PN RANGERS - The Stars are in the middle of an easy part of its schedule and once again are favored to win this match fairly easily. However, the once dominate offense has showed signs of weakness the last couple of weeks.

WEEK 6: Gunners Move to Top of the Table

2011-04-23T23:24:00.000-07:00

BOXSCORES
ALAMO CITY 7 GATEWAY UTD 4- The scoring started early in this one with a couple of goals and a assist from Henry(Battle) and a goal from Lindpere(Saints). Then Alamo City kept the heat on the league's last undefeated club with 2 goals from Kamara, a goal from Lekic, to build a 6-1 lead. Gateway United tried to claw back into this match with Donovans 2 early scores, but then the last build up saw Angel assist Donovan on his other goal and put the scoring to rest. Each club left assists on their benches. The Battle now have the #1 offense in the league.

GOLD COAST 4 BURUD TOWN 1- The Suns remained perfect against the Stags getting goals from Perovic and Moreno, and assist from DeGuzman and Beckham. Burud Town for the 2nd game in a row struggled on offense and even left a Agudelo goal on the bench. Also Steve Zakuani was injured bringing even more bad news this week to the Stags. CD

GUNNERS 7 ALLIANCE 3- Capital District extended its unbeaten streak to 5 games and moved into first place in the BSL with the help of having played an extra game over several clubs in the running and also have the largest Margin of Victory in the league. In the Gunners most impressive showing of the season, a total of 5 players contributed to the score sheet including Montero's first goal of 2011. Donovan Ricketts played lights out with 6 hard saves and a clean sheet. The Lions got a brace from Chad Barrett, but played the wrong keeper as Keller had a clean sheet on the bench and Chavez had an assist on the bench.

SECOND CITY 3 HILLCREST UTD 0- The Stars improved to 4-1-0 on the season after an expected win over the Rainbows. Scores from Chaves, Davis, and Chiumento were the scoreline. New addition Busch had 4 saves in his Stars debut.

UNION SC 2 PN RANGERS 1- The Blues avoided an upset and escaped with the win thanks to Chris Wondolowski's goal. New in uniform, Shalrie Joseph got the scoring started for Union SC adding validation to the owners decision to trade for him.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 6

2011-04-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

GATEWAY UNITED vs ALAMO CITY- The first meeting of 2011 and the 8th meeting all time, this is the Match of the Week. The Saints still bring up the clubs playoff defeat to the now Battle in 2009. Right now Gateway United is riding high having just demolished Manchester United in a friendly. Alamo City is also riding high having just tied a record held by the Saints. This should be a great game.

CD GUNNERS vs ALLIANCE FC- The Gunners are unbeaten in 4 straight and are currently sitting in 3rd place. The Lions have lost 3 league matches in a row, but aside from last week have been very competive in all matches. DeRosario will most likely make his Alliance debut.

BURUD TOWN vs GOLD COAST - The Suns have dominated this match up so far. Both clubs are in the thick of the early playoff race. Gold Coast is 3-2-0, while Burud Town is close behind at 2-2-1.

UNION SC vs PN RANGERS - The Blues have a great opportunity to even the clubs record by playing a weak Rangers club. However, as last weeks history will prove, nothing is guaranteed. Joseph will make his Union SC debut in this game.

SECOND CITY vs HILLCREST UNITED- How much will the Stars punish the Rainbows? Its hard to imagine this offense struggling for a second game in a row, so the chance for a quick result in this match is very likely. The owner of Second City should be focused on trying to increase MOV and APG points if at all possible.

WEEK 5: Underdogs Find Some Results

2011-04-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

BOXSCORES
CD GUNNERS 2 PENNSYLVANIA 2- The Stoners got 2 goals from Perlaza to start this match, but had to settle for a 1 point average since he played twice this week. The Gunners Marco Pappa also averaged 1 point this week, and Donovan Ricketts clean sheet earlier this week was voided out after giving up a goal on Sunday. In short neither club was able to break a 2-2 deadlock. Both clubs also had plenty of scores wasted on their benches. Lots of action, lots of chances, but only a 2 scores a piece.

UNION SC 2 SECOND CITY 1 - The Stars suffered their first loss of the season and in the BSL. The club opened the scoring off with a Bouna Coundoul clean sheet, but the rest of the starting line up failed to provide any addition offense. This was a big surprise since the Stars boasted the leagues top offense. Still, the game went on and the Blues were unable to score themselves. The Stars were clinging to a 1-0 lead up until the very end until Brek Shea scored twice to win the match all on his own. Its a 3 points Union SC needed badly.

ALAMO CITY 7 ALLIANCE 0- The Battle tied a BSL record for biggest margin of victory in a game. The 7 point win matches Gateway United's 7-0 win 2 years ago. After losing 3 in a row, this is just what Alamo City needed to get the season moving in the right direction. The Lions had no offense this week and the clubs 2 yellow cards let Henry into the game and the result was 2 more scores.

GOLD COAST 2 PN RANGERS 0- The Suns got 6 saves from Matt Reis and a goal from Kenny Cooper to double up on the Rangers. Frie did have a clean sheet for the Rangers, but then he played again this week and voided out his earlier work.

BURUD TOWN 0 HILLCREST UNITED 0- For the first time ever we have a BSL match that ended 0-0. It was no surprise that the Rainbows would struggle to score. What was a surprise was that the Stags would be unable to get one into the net. Espindola did have a goal on the bench but it would not count. Hillcrest United has a point in the standings.

TRADE: Blues and Lions Come to Terms

2011-04-16T10:12:00.000-07:00

After receiving a bunch of trade offers this week, Union S0-Cal ownership has made a decision that hopefully will turns the fortunes of the club around. "I am extremely happy to have Joseph back in a Blues uniform. He was not our first choice to be honest with all the original trade offers. That said this is a good trade" said the Blues owner. Both Alliance and Union SC are currently sitting with losing records early in the 2011 season and hopefully will benefit from this trade. As for the players, both are currently sitting with 3 points for 2011 and have played similiar minutes.

BIDDING WAR: Benny Feilhaber (CHV)

2011-04-15T23:07:00.000-07:00

Clubs involved (8): ALAMO CITY, SECOND CITY, GATEWAY UNITED, CD GUNNERS, GOLD COAST, ALLIANCE FC, BURUD TOWN, UNION SC - A BSL record 8 clubs will bid on Feilhaber. Due to the fact that its the weekend and the larger number of clubs interested in this player, the deadline for this bidding war is 7pm Sunday the 17th. This should give every owner the time needed to make a rational decision on Feilhaber.

BIDDING WAR: Diego Chara (POR)

2011-04-13T23:08:00.000-07:00

Clubs involved (5): GATEWAY UNITED, CD GUNNERS, BURUD TOWN, ALLIANCE FC, UNION SC - This bidding for Diego Chara will expire at 10am (PST) Friday the 15th. This will give all the prospective owners ample time to make any offers they seem fit. Remember all bids must be made in the comments section of this post to be valid. Do not email the Commish. Be sure to post the points and minutes value of the player you are offering. See past bidding wars for details if you do not understand or see the rules on the league website.

BIDDING WAR: Sergio "Koko" Pardo (HOU)

2011-04-13T23:04:00.000-07:00

Clubs involved (4): BURUD TOWN, ALAMO CITY, GOLD COAST, PENNSYLVANIA - Bidding ends 10am (Pacific Time) on Friday 4/15/11. Bids must be made in the comments of this post. All other will not be valid. Any bids made after 10am (PST) will not count.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 5

2011-04-11T23:10:00.001-07:00

PENNSYLVANIA vs CD GUNNERS - The Match of the Week features two clubs holding half of the current playoff positions. Both clubs are 3-1-0 on the season. Both clubs have won 3 in a row after losing opening day.

ALLIANCE vs ALAMO CITY - Two clubs that suffered one point losses in the closing minutes of their matches last week will have to put that aside and focus on getting a win in this game.

SECOND CITY vs UNION SC -The Stars are chasing Gateway United to be the other 4-0 club in the BSL. However, Second City already is ranked #1 in APG in the league with an impressive 4.67 and also is ranked #2 in the league in Margin of Victory with a plus 8. The Blues need a win badly and are entertaining plenty of trade offers. It seems likely that this will be DeRo's last game in Blue, before he gets traded. Maybe a couple of goals will change the owners mind.

GOLD COAST vs PN RANGERS -The Suns get a chance to lick their wounds from last week when they go up against the 0-3 Rangers.

BURUD TOWN vs HILLCREST UTD. - The Stags might only need to score a goal or two in this match as the Rainbows have yet to score. The club did have a bye last week, but the owner made no changes to bolster the roster. Perhaps, with his experiment gone wrong, Hillcrest has lost interest like other failed rosters a la the N.Y. Greeks of 2010 and Motor City of 2009.

WEEK 4: Strengths and Weakness Beginning to Show

2011-04-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

BOXSCORES
CAPITAL DISTRICT 3 ALAMO CITY 2 - The first leg of the 2011 BSL Classic was filled with the kind of tension you'd expect in this derby. Alamo City opened the scoring when Hassli scored on a PK. However, that goal was taken away when he foolishly was red carded from the match. So a man down the Battle would have to wait an see if this mistake would cost the team. David Ferreira would re-open the scoring with 2 goals and Alamo City was sitting with a 2-0 lead. Then the Gunners fought back off of scores from Castillo and Rosales. As the match progressed it was looking like these two clubs would end up in a third straight tie. However, in the final minutes of the game, "Camino" Sanvezzo would score the game winner. The Hassli red card would indeed cost the Battle a point in the standings.

SECOND CITY 7 GOLD COAST 2 - The Stars are 3-0-0 after a thrashing of Gold Coast FC. Even before Brad Davis poured on 3 assists by himself, Second City was grooving with goals and assists from another 4 position players. Gold Coast tried to fight back, but could only get as close as 3-2 before the game became a blowout.

PENNSYLVANIA 4 ALLIANCE 3 -The best game of the week might have been this one. Both expansion clubs went back and forth all week. The Stoners started with White's goal and assist to take a 2-0 lead. Then the Lions countered with Magee and Chavez. The Stoners reclaimed the lead when Puerari scored, but the Lions would once again equalize off a Torres goal. Then 20 minutes later Mondragon got his 3rd clean sheet of the season for the game winner. Pennsylvania has now won 3 in a row after losing opening day.

BURUD TOWN 3 UNION SC 1 -New year, new result as the Stags finally defeated Union SC. Steve Zakuani opened the scoring and Hartman's clean sheet built a 2-0 lead. The Blues would cut into the lead when Wondolowski scored, but that was all the champs could muster. Burud Town added some insurance with Bruins goal even though the game was already decided. The champions are now 1-3-0 to start the season and the worst start in Blues history.

GATEWAY UNITED 4 PN RANGERS 0 -The Saints remain in first place after winning 4-0 for the second week in a row to improve to 4-0-0 on the season. Charlie Davies had another penalty kick to add to his total, and both the Saints Keepers had impressive showings showing the depth this club has at the Keeper position. Alan Gordon seems to like Toronto as he scored another goal.

TRADE: Saints and Stags Diversifying?

2011-04-05T19:15:00.001-07:00

Burud Town and Gateway United have come to an agreement sending Brian Mullan and Juninho to each others rosters. The move is in time for week 4 of the schedule. From the looks of it this trade was done in an attempt by both clubs to be more diversified. Burud Town was sitting on multiple Rapid players and Gateway United was sitting on multiple Galaxy players.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 4

2011-04-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

ALAMO CITY vs CAPITAL DISTRICT - The match of the week features two BSL orginals meeting up for the 7th time. This derby, recently renamed the BSL Classic is always a good match. Infact the last two times these clubs have meet it has ended in a tie.

UNION SC vs BURUD TOWN - The Blues have never lost to the Stags including a win in the league only overtime game. Both clubs are in need of a win coming off week 3 losses. Both come into play with 1-2 records.

SECOND CITY vs GOLD COAST - The undefeated Stars take on the 2-1 Suns as two exciting offenses collide.

GATEWAY UNITED vs PN RANGERS - The first place Saints look for win #4 against a Rangers club looking for its first win. The Saints have managed to find success even though Landon Donovan has yet to score a single point for the club.

ALLIANCE FC vs PENNSYLVANIA - The Lions return after a bye week to challenge a Stoners team that has scored 10 points in its last 2 games.

WEEK 3: Saints and Stars Remain Perfect

2011-04-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

GOLD COAST 5 UNION SC 4 - The first leg of the California Cup started with the Suns building an early 2-0 lead with scores from Alejandro Moreno and Cam Weaver. Then the scoring became fierce as both clubs started trading blows including having each keeper collecting a saves point. Once again the Blues had a ton of yellow cards, a real problem for the team so far, but Gold Coast did not take advantage of it this time. Instead it was Union SC that got a assist from its substitution of Mastroeni. However, it would not be enough to win the match. PENNSYLVANIA 5 ALAMO CITY 3 - For the second game in a row the Stoners put up a league high 5 points and came out victorious. Even more impressive is how the club is scoring. This time different position players contibuted to the scoring than the previous match the Stoners won. Meanwhile Alamo City got 2 goals from Folan in an attempt to mount a comeback in this game, but the lead was just too big. The Battle have lost 2 in a row since winning opening day. SECOND CITY 3 BURUD TOWN 2 - The Stags opened the scoring with a Zakuani assist, but the Stars rebounded with scores from Dawkins and Chiumento. Burud Town equalized off an Omar Cummings goal, but Jamie Smith scored the game winner late in this one. Second City moves to 2-0 on the season and is one of only 2 undefeated clubs in the BSL. CD GUNNERS 4 PN RANGERS 0 - Newly signed Stojcev opened the scoring for the Gunners. Donovan Ricketts added a clean sheet in his first game of 2011 as Capital District cruised to an easy win. GATEWAY UNITED 4 HILLCREST UNITED 0 - The Saints moved to a perfect 3-0 on the season after easily winning this match. With it being no secret that the Rainbows are struggling to score, Gateway United put this game to bed fairly quickly as the club put up a 2-0 lead by the end of Friday. Hillcrest would conclude being shut out for the 3rd straight game. What is more notable is the club for the 3rd straight game left points on the bench. This time 2 more scores were wasted.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 3

2011-03-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

UNION SC vs GOLD COAST: The Match of the Week is the battle out West that pins one of the best rivalies in the BSL. The Suns will be missing Omar Bravo in this one as well as Kyle Beckerman while Union SC appears to have more flexibility with its club roster. GATEWAY UTD vs HILLCREST UTD: Two clubs going in completely opposite directions to start the season. The Saints (2-0) are in first, while the Rainbows (0-2) are sitting at the bottom. The first objective for Hillcrest will be to score and get that goose egg off the clubs back. SECOND CITY vs BURUD TOWN: The Stars break is over and we will see if opening day was a fluke or if this club is the real deal. The Stags meanwhile have been solid scoring 4 points in each game so far. CD GUNNERS vs PN RANGERS: Freddy Montero has yet to find the back of the net and Javier Morales will not be able to rescue the club this week with RSL busy with Champions League play. Meanwhile the Rangers need someone besides Frei to score. ALAMO CITY vs PENNSYLVANIA: Henry is expected to return to action and that should be some welcomed news since Hassli will have to sit out due to his red card suspension. The Stoners are flying high after erupting for 5 points in week 2. Should be a competitive match.

POWER RANKINGS: March

2011-03-28T21:21:00.000-07:00

Leading the first power rankings of 2011 is Gateway United. The Saints defeated the 2010 BSL Cup champions and then defeated the 2010 Majors Cup champions to begin the season. In second in the rankings is Burud Town. The Stags currently lead the league in total points scored with 8. Third in the ranks is Second City. The Stars may have played only one game so far, but it was an impressive debut. On the other side of the rankings, Hillcrest United is sitting last at number 11 because of the clubs obvious offensive struggles to start the season.

WEEK 2: Several Clubs Bounce Back After Slow Openers

2011-03-26T23:04:00.000-07:00

BURUD TOWN 4 ALAMO CITY 1: The Stags are now 4 for 4 against the Battle. In this latest match up, Burud Town opened the scoring when Steve Zakuani chipped in a goal on Friday. However, it was the red card by Hassli that changed the completion of this game. Coming in off the bench for the Stags was Paulo Araujo Jr, who scored a goal and assist. Alamo City in return could only muster a late Juan Pablo Angel goal. The club was able to bring in a substitute of their own after Burud Town recieved a 2nd yellow card in the game, but Paladini was unable to score as well. CD GUNNERS 5 HILLCREST UTD 0: Unlike last week, the Gunners took advantage of their scoring chances. Well, two players did at least. Javier Morales and Marco Pappa collected all 5 scores for Capital District on route to the clubs first win of 2011. On the flip side, the Rainbows were shutout again. Its the first time in BSL history that a club has failed to score in back to back games. On a side note though, Hillcrest United has had scorers, but they have been sitting on the bench. Last week Rodgers goal was unused. This week both reserve players scored goals for the club. UNION SC 3 ALLIANCE 2: The Blues 2010 MVP came to the rescue in week 2 of the season as Chris Wondolowski's 2 goals were the difference in this game. Dwayne DeRosario got the scoring started with an assist. Alliance equalized off a Joseph goal. After Wondo's two scores built a 3-1 lead, the Lions inched a little closer thanks to Matt Pickens clean sheet. Both clubs had subs enter the game but they were a non factor in the score sheet. PENNSYLVANIA 5 PN RANGERS 1: The Stoners found their offense. A whole whirlwind of players joined the celebration as 4 starting position player made contributions. Mondragon for the second game in a row produced a clean sheet as well. The only sour note in an otherwise impressive first win for Pennsylvania is that Puerari's goal was left on the bench. The Rangers suffered a similiar fate as the Stoners last week, with only the goal keeper, Frei, able to score for the club. The rest of the starting line up produced nothing. GATEWAY UTD 3 GOLD COAST 1: The Saints improved to 2-0 on the season thanks to Jon Busch. With the score tied 1-1 and almost all players in the game accounted for, Busch produced a clean sheet with 5 saves to change the score line for Gateway United. For the Suns, it was a struggle all weekend. Omar Bravo was ejected, forcing the club to play a man down. Matt Reis was minutes away from clean sheet, before a PK was called. The man who scored that PK was Charlie Davies for the Saints making what could have been a 2-0 lead a 1-1 tie instead. The Saints were allowed to bring in Quaranta off the bench, but it had no affect on the game.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 2

2011-03-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

GATEWAY UTD vs GOLD COAST

The Match of the Week features two opening day winners. Gateway United found fortune from #8 starter Juninho last week, but got nothing from Designated Players Donovan and Mwanga. Gold Coast got results in reverse as the clubs high profile players delivered while the rest of the roster was silent. The Saints lead in the all time head to head series. Who will go 2-0 to start the season?

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CD GUNNERS vs HILLCREST UTD

Both clubs are coming off an early loss. Its hardly time to panic, but both clubs should be looking for improvement. The Rainbows entire starting lineup and goal keeper were shut down and were the only BSL club in week one to fail to score a single point. The Gunners squad actually had their opportunities and just were unable to finish giving this club less reason for concern.

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BURUD TOWN vs ALAMO CITY

The Stags own the Battle/Monarchs. In their last meeting Burud Town overcame a 5-3 deficit to comeback and win 7-5 in a crucial match that clinched the playoffs for the club on the last day of the regular season of 2010. Ofcourse this is 2011 and Alamo City is 1-0 while the Stags are 0-1 after a tough 5-4 loss. Predictions are this could be the highest scoring game of the week.

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PENNSYLVANIA vs PN RANGERS

The Rangers will make their debut this week after having the bye in week one. The Stoners are coming off week one having only Mondragon's clean sheet to feel good about.

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UNION SC vs ALLIANCE FC

The Blues lost opening day last year, so ownership is not worried at all about starting 0-1. The upstart Lions on the other hand have bragging right for week one scoring more than anyone else on route to a win. Alliance is currently the first place club having a tiebreaker of best APG. (Average Points per Game) This should be a great game.

WEEK 1: Alliance Takes the First Week's Highest Score

2011-03-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

BOXSCORES

GATEWAY UTD 3 UNION SC 2
The Saints continued their dominance over the Blues. After taking an early 1-0 lead off a rocket from Juninho, Union SC fought back. First, club captain DeRosario chipped in his first goal of the season and fellow DP Conor Casey added an assist to take a slim 2-1 lead. Then Charlie Davies took over and nailed a PK to tie the score and then followed it with the game winner. Union SC was forced to play a man down when Brek Shea was red carded. Both Santino Quaranta and Jack Jewsbury were subbed into the game for the Saints, but neither would throw in any scores. 10 men to 7, the result is what matters and Gateway United got the 3 points.

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SECOND CITY 4 CAPITAL DISTRICT 2

The Stars made an impressive debut getting scores from 4 different starters. The club even had a fifth score on the bench, but was unable to get him into the game. Chiumiento had a heck of a match and was getting a whole mess of touches. Meanwhile, the Gunners got 0 points from Freddy Montero who played 180 minutes this week. Saborio was blanked as well. Marco Pappa hit the post. It was that kind of game for the Gunners. The one omen was club Keeper Sean Johnson had an assist.

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ALLIANCE 5 BURUD TOWN 4

The most explosive match of the week. The Lions roared out early in this match getting 4 points from two players (Santos and Harris). But, the Stags would fight back and claw equal with 4 scores of their own including a goal and assist from Designated Player Omar Cummings. Then in the 3rd minute of Sunday's final tally, Shalrie Joseph scored the game winner to give Alliance the clubs first win in the BSL. Burud Town put up a good fight and almost completed a huge comeback. The club came close in so many ways including coming up 1 save short for another score. This was a real nail bitter.

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GOLD COAST 4 PENNSYLVANIA 1

The game began slow as neither club had many threats early. The first score was from the Stoners, as their keeper recorded a clean sheet to give Pennsylvania a 1-0 lead. Then as the later tally's arrived, the Suns began to show their new weapons. Cooper drove home the equalizer on a very late goal. Then Omar Bravo displayed his professionalism with 2 beautiful goals. Matt Reis closed the scoring out recording 5 saves. Ballouchy was subbed into the match for the Stoners, but feel victim to the same results as the rest of the clubs position players.

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ALAMO CITY 4 HILLCREST UNITED 0

The Battle were able to build a comfortable 4-0 lead and hold it all the way through to victory thanks to 2 players. Kei Kamara's 2 assists and Nick Rimando's clean sheet and 8 saves were the score line in this game. The Rainbows did get one score from Rodgers, but he was placed way down as the third sub off the bench. It wouldn't matter since Alamo City had no cards in this game. The Battle also wasted some scores as Hassli's 2 goals were left on the bench.

MATCH PREVIEW: Week 1

2011-03-10T20:27:00.000-08:00

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UNION SC vs GATEWAY UTD

The only match-up in week one that features two senior BSL clubs facing off against each other. The Saints have an agressive ownership group hell bent on winning. Don't be fooled by the recent press coming out of the camp that the club has been humbled. An opening day win could light fireworks and smack talk all over again. The Blues need to win these type of games to have any chance of repeating as BSL Champions. Union SC is 1-1 on opening day all-time. Gateway is also 1-1 on opening day all-time.

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PENNSYLVANIA vs GOLD COAST

The Suns revamped a Majors Cup Championship squad from top to bottom. This will be the first opportunity to see if it was a good decision. They will face the expansion Stoners filled with Philly Union players and guys with Philly afflilation. Gold Coast is 1-0 all-time on opening day.

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BURUD TOWN vs ALLIANCE FC

The Stags had a good draft and will look to improve on a Semi-Final playoff appearance. However, 2010 was a very streaky season. Wins and losses came in bunches. Because of that the owner made big moves in the trade and transfer market last year to help to create success. What is up the sleeves for this club this year. Alliance FC has been active and knowledgeable and has stated aspirations to win right away. Should be a good first game. Burud Town is 0-0-1 on opening day all-time.

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CAPITAL DISTRICT vs SECOND CITY

The Gunners have the youngest roster in the league. Will all that youth require time to mature? The owner knows how to win and has a Honors Trophy to prove he knows how to judge talent, so the benefit of the doubt goes to him for now. Second City had a good draft for an expansion club and could pose a lot of problems for all their opponents all season long. Expect this game to go the distant. Capital District is 1-1 on opening day all-time.

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ALAMO CITY vs HILLCREST UTD

This could be the first blow out of the season. The Battle are poised for a return to the playoffs with the highest payroll in the BSL and the owner has built a reputation of knowing how to succeed in this league. The name may be different, but that Mongomery County Championship is the same club. Meanwhile Hillcrest United had a questionable draft. The league wishes success to all its clubs and a fun experience, but the Rainbows could have their work cut out for them. Is there an upset in the future? Alamo City is 1-1 all-time on opening day.

2011 DRAFT: Ready to Begin

2011-03-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

A total of 139 players were chosen to conclude the 2011 BSL draft. Add in the 10 Designated Players selected before the draft and 5 Pre-Draft Selections and you have a grand total of 154 players. No small task, but necessary in order to prepare for a new season of soccer. Starting tomorrow club owners can start acquring free agents if they so desire. Opening Kick is only 1 week away.

2011 DRAFT: Filling in the Final Spots

2011-03-07T23:07:00.000-08:00

At this stage of the draft BSL clubs are working on filling what could be the initial reserves of their teams. Ofcourse, today's reserves can become tomorrow's hidden gems and make it all the way to the starting lineup. Either way we are coming to the close of the draft with some clubs hitting roster capacity.
It is quite possible that some of these drafted players may never get a chance to hit the box score. Free Agency begins right after the full completion of the draft and club owners may find the need to further tweak their line-ups even before game one begins.

2011 DRAFT: Change Can Be Good

2011-03-06T21:00:00.000-08:00

This round featured several BSL clubs investing in players that have changed what uniform they will be wearing in the MLS. Gateway United picked up Jack Jewsbury who was named the Captain of the Portand Timbers. Josh Wolff was drafted by Second City who now plays for DC United. Pennsylvania kept to form by picking up Ballouchy who now is with the RedBulls.

2011 DRAFT: Good Players Still Being Added

2011-03-05T22:33:00.000-08:00

It's not often that an MLS Designated Player can get drafted in the 9th round. But, Alamo City was able to snatch up Hassli after it was announced that he coming here. There were other very promising picks to be seen in this late round. The CD Gunners signing of Castillo could have real promise. Burud Town picked up Perlaza who is fresh off a preseason goal in the Cascadia Summit. Union SC used this round to pick up the goal keeper Jimmy Nielsen who gathered quit a few points last season.

2011 DRAFT: Rosters Taking Shape

2011-03-05T00:19:00.000-08:00

At this point in the draft every BSL club should have at least enough players to fill a starting line up with the exception of a goal keeper and some clubs even have them. This means we are getting down to filling the subs and reserves up. At first glance an owner might think he knows just how to size up his competition by now. That could not be further from the truth. The fact is a BSL clubs substitutes have a great deal of value. Injuries and National team duty will happen. It's a fact. Also not every MLS team plays every week. Therefore your Sub's will be used with almost a guarantee. Add to the fact that your opponent might go card crazy and have your clubs sub's come in during gameday. The point if you haven't figured it out by now is that the next part of the draft's rounds are just as important.

The featured pick during these rounds is Gateway United's pick of Alan Gordon at #79. This could be a great selection since Gordon (attitude and all) is happy in Chivas land and played well for them in their last matches of 2010. He might surprise a lot of people if he has found his nitch over in the other locker room of Home Depot Center.

Round 9 is currently in progress as the weekend has hit. During Saturday and Sunday the 2 hour time limit will not apply, so the progress will slow down. More than likely the draft will have to continue into Monday and the time limit will resume as normal on Monday 7am pacific time.

2011 DRAFT: Finding Middle Round Success

2011-03-03T20:45:00.000-08:00

What seperates a good BSL club from a great BSL club? What is the difference between a BSL club that is a playoff contender and a club that battles for the Honors Trophy and is a season long favorite to win the BSL Cup and Majors Cup? The answer is team depth. Having a good group of scorers on the top of your lineup will get you wins. But, having a good group at the bottom of the starting lineup will squeek out close victories in matches that a clubs high profile players may perhaps struggle.

Every BSL owner will have a different opinion on which group of players best fit this need. Only time will tell who's middle round draft picks will prove to be the best choices. Lets take a look at some of the players drafted in Round 5 for example. Dane Richards (CD Gunners) at #47 could be a steal with the talent he will be playing with. Marco Perovic (Gold Coast) has moments where he looks great. Can he put it all together in 2011? Espindola (Burud Town) could be a real steal at #49 because he is more than capable of scoring goals in stretch runs. Padilla (Union SC) was once regarded as the guy who would get Chivas USA into the playoffs. If he ever lives up to those expectations he would be a huge pick up at #50.

2011 DRAFT: Goal Keepers Getting Grabbed

2011-03-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

Rounds 3 and 4 were completed in day 2 of the draft process. It looks like the new "Saves " rule is playing a new value in the goal keeper. Several BSL clubs drafted a keeper in these two rounds which is sooner than in years past. More interesting is these picks are not just by expansion clubs, but some senior clubs as well. Alamo City picked up Nick Rimando at #23, while the CD Gunners picked up Donovan Ricketts at #25. Second City drafted Bouna Coundoul at #31.

By far the most interesting picks so far in the draft have to go to Hillcrest United. The owner has picked up 2 goal keepers in the first 4 rounds. None of these picks are League picks. The owner must have a strategy and has even been advised by the Commissioners office that these are questionable choices.

Not all expansion owners are finding it hard to make a name for themselves. Pennsylvania picked up Convey at #30 and Alliance FC picked up Joseph at #40. Both very fine choices.

Finally, the last of the offseason draft trades are complete. Starting with round 5, all BSL clubs will have one pick each to be made.

2011 DRAFT: Two Rounds and 22 Picks Later

2011-03-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

The first two rounds of the 2011 BSL draft were completed after day 1 of the process. Alamo City named Juan Pablo Angel the first overall pick. This really should not be much of a surprise since Angel was held as a Designated Player in 2010 by Capital District and is still considered one of the biggest offensive threats leading into 2011. Gateway United continues the clubs tradition of aggressive moves in drafts. No one can ever accuse the Saints of being afraid to take chances. Charlie Davies could be a great contributor if he can stay healthy and find his form. The question is will he? Javier Morales was a beast for the late St. Louis Cure owner and the Gunners did not forget that when the club drafted him third. The Club that owned the first round was Gold Coast FC. With three picks, the Suns drafted Kenny Cooper, David Beckham, and Omar Bravo. Not a bad trio! Cooper returns to the States. Will his scoring touch return too? Beckham may not score goals, but he does get assist and he will have Donovan and JPA to pass the ball too. Bravo has the talent but can he adjust to the physical play he'll see in the MLS? The BSL champions may have surprised a few rivals with the selection of Brek Shea in the first round. The Blues ownership group feels extremely confident Shea will be a difference maker on gameday. The biggest surprise of the first round has to be Hillcreest United's pick of defender Barnes. Some defenders have produced in the BSL and make a difference. But, a first round pick, that is up for debate. The second round saw the Pennsylvania Stoners draft local with Carlos Ruiz. The clubs second Philly player. While Burud Town finally got Justin Braun after a few attempts at trying to trade for him in the offseason.

Offseason Player Movement Comes to a Close

2011-02-25T22:18:00.000-08:00

The deadline for player movement before the 2011 BSL draft has been reached. Five of the six senior clubs opted to keep some Designated Players. Only Gold Coast decided to forgo this plan and traded its DP slots away for a bunch of first round picks. Meanwhile Burud Town opted to only use 1 of its 2 DP slots. Several attempts were made to trade the other away, but there were no buyers.

Meanwhile, 5 players were acquired by BSL expansion sides as well. It was a very active offseason. None of these players will be available for selection in the draft which will begin in only 4 days. The TRANSACTIONS section is your place to review any up to date player selections once the draft begins. Remember BSL owners will be skipped if they exceed their available time limits.

Alamo City is picking first and can start making a selection when ready. The draft clock officially begins at 7am pacific time. March 1st. Best of luck.

CD Gunners Maintain the Rights to Saborio

2011-02-23T20:56:00.000-08:00

With the deadline fast approaching, the CD Gunners held a press conference announcing that Alvario Saborio will be the clubs 2nd Designated Player for the 2011 season. Saborio played very well for Capital District last season and another similiar effort would make this an outstanding signing. Even though the Gunners failed to reach the playoffs/Majors Cup in 2010, the club still holds the record for most BSL regular season wins all-time.
DERBIES
Alliance FC and Gateway United have spawned a rivalry amongst each other to win the Barium Cup. Meanwhile the NECC (North East Corridor Classic) has been renamed the BSL Classic, due to Montgomery County's relocation to Texas becoming Alamo City.

Pre Draft Deadline Drawing Near

2011-02-20T10:28:00.000-08:00

Last call! Any transactions being planned before the 2011 Draft are due by Friday, February 25. This includes DP selections for senior BSL clubs and Pre-Draft trades for expansion BSL clubs.
Clubs Kits
There are expansion BSL clubs that do not have kits announced yet. Please send them to the Commissioner before the first MATCH PREVIEW of the season. Club kits are displayed during each match preview of the season. If you need help (Alamo City) makes really good ones.

Check Out the Full 2011 BSL Schedule

2011-02-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

The complete 2011 schedule for the BSL is now available. The 22 week regular season will conclude 8/14 with each club playing each other twice. After the Semi-Finals, the BSL Cup will be played on 8/24 - 8/28. Majors Cup will take up all of September and the Majors Cup Final will be played on 10/12 - 10/16.

The four MLS clubs that will complete in the 2011 Majors Cup will be: Colorado Rapids (MLS Cup Champions), Seattle Sounders (US Open Cup Champions), Los Angeles Galaxy (Supporter Shield), and Toronto FC (Canadian Championship) As always, these 4 MLS clubs will be ranked 1 through 4 based on their records by the end of August to determine their rankings in Group's A and B. (Group A gets #1 and #4 ranked BSL/MLS clubs. Group B gets #2 and #3 ranked BSL/MLS clubs.)

Stags Keeping Cummings

2011-02-06T20:44:00.000-08:00

Omar Cummings is a BSL winner. In 2009 he was a member of Montgomery County (now Alamo City) and his contributions helped lead that club to the playoffs and win the BSL Cup. When he was released by Montgomery in the middle of the 2010 season because he was struggling to find the net, Burud Town snatched him up and was rewarded. Cummings found his feet and helped the Stags to the playoffs and even scored the clubs lone playoff point in the semi-final. With this latest announcement, Burud Town is hoping Cummings will continue his winning ways in the BSL. The Stags also unveiled the clubs new kits on its website.

Introducing the Saves Rule and New Boxscore Layout for 2011

2011-02-04T23:29:00.000-08:00

THE SAVES RULE
Last year the owner of the CD Gunners came up with an idea to add more value to the Goal Keepers of the BSL. Instead of just counting a keepers clean sheets, the BSL should put some value on his "saves total" as well. The majority of the leagues owners liked the idea, but the season was already in play. Well, the SAVES RULE will be installed for 2011. The theory is keepers who have poor defenders will still have some value if they can stop a whole bunch of shots. The magic number of saves is "5" for a goal keeper to earn 1 point in the boxscore. If a keeper does get 10 saves in a game then he will have earned 2 points in the boxscore.
NEW LOOK BOXSCORE
This leads way to the next announcement. The new look boxscore. The image above is a sample of it. The top 3 stats are the staples of the BSL scoring system since day 1. (Goals, Assists, and Clean Sheets). The next 4 stats are the bonus features that have been installed over time. The new saves rule, yellow cards, red cards, and the LF rule (Lineup Failure). In this example TBA Club #2 won the match 3 to 1 because it had 2 goals and 5 saves = 3 points. The other club also had 2 goals, but did not post his lineup order on his club website in time and lost 1 point for lineup failure. Both clubs had 2 yellow cards each, but neither clubs first substitute player scored anything.