Yanks Soccer

It took almost two years for New England to finally win a Cup Final against Houston.  But when it came last night, it was o’ so sweet.  The Superliga final was labeled an “exhibiton” by the players union yesterday, but it was far from it.  Houston and New England played an exciting, exhilarating match and went all the way to penalties.

 Houston and New England both scored first half goals courtesy of Nate Jaqua and Steve Ralston respectively.  The second half was open with back-and-forth action throughout, but the deadlock couldn’t be broken.  

In Extra time, Houston took control and had many opportunities come close, but in the 98th minute, Kei Kamara beat Matt Reis to a Brian Ching cross and put Houston in the lead.  New England came back just four minutes later when Steve Ralston’s free kick was headed home by Shalrie Joseph to level the score.  

In Penalties, it was as tight as the rest of the game.  After each team had taken eight penalties, it was decided.  Corey Ashe needed to convert to continue the penalties, but his shot powered off the crossbar and the 9,242 fans in attendance went mad.

I’m so happy to see New England finally win a cup final, and it’s even sweeter that they beat the team that they had lost to in the previous two MLS Cup Finals.  

The YS man of the match is Matt Reis.  Even though he missed a penalty, he came right back and saved the next two penalties to pull New England right back in.  He also made some key saves during the game that staved off a relentless Houston attack.

Did any of you guys watch the game?  Did it live up to it’s billing?  Are you happy to see New England finally win?  How was Superliga on the whole?  Your thoughts below.