Comments on: Spain-Italy Most Watched Match So Far And Other ESPN Euro Ratings News

By: Kartik

Kartik — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:52:35 +0000

Hopefully ESPN/ABC will not make today’s game a “Euro Final Preview Show.”

Becks is feeling low with many of his mates competing in the Euros but today is a day for him to rekindle his interest and learn once again why RFK is MLS’ best venue.

By: eplnfl

eplnfl — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:41:12 +0000

First, I want to back Kartik for what he has done to increase the popularity of the MLS and US Socccer in general. Well done, and the MLS and the USSF should express their thanks and appreciation to you. Second, you have expressed your displeasure with the MLS for leaving South Florida and you make no secret about that. So, those of us here that say you harbor disdain for the MLS should realize that as a fan they let you down. You have acknowledged that. You have a right to be upset and express it.

As to what can be done, it would be a better plan for MLS to hire 2 or 3 well known names to attract the causal fan, ie: Beckham, who will attract fans when they are playing and TV attention. Put them in key markets. Top 3 media markets, will do. Have the league pay for them or somehow share their costs. Spend your money on keeping the mid-level American’s who are are going to Europe, ie: Beasely, Bradley, Howard, etc. home. In this way you have headliner names(limited) but a solid base of Americans to draw in the average fan.

By: Kartik

Kartik — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:09:32 +0000

Look guys, I am glad we have so much interest in US Soccer/MLS here. I thought everyone who posted here was what I call a Eurosnob. Watch United today take the Gals to task and we can save this discussion which is very valid for my blog which is linked on my name. Also, I encourage anyone with a dissenting opinion to write me at kartik@csrnusa.com if you’d like to discuss your views on MLS Talk or CSRN’s American Soccer Show.

By: T Rex

T Rex — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 13:46:07 +0000

Kartik’s essay which isn’t worth reading doesn’t bother me. What does bother me is MLS claiming they will only put new teams in stadiums which are soccer specific and then awarding Seattle a franchise and also allowing so much play on turf when we should be going the other direction. While Kartik may be extreme in his views at time I do have to say the changing of league policy regarding stadiums and the embrace of turf looks to me like alleged above a cash grab to benefit the original investors.

By: Stan

Stan — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 13:05:15 +0000

The mistake in Tampa was ever bringing a team to Tampa without an owner willing to make a significant upfront investment.

The reason USL can attract owners is that it doesn’t require an upfront commitment, but here’s the nasty surprise–RUNNING THE TEAM STILL DOES. This is why many, many teams come into USL, and many, many teams also go out.

Including Tampa’s old ASL team.