Roman Burki is worth every penny. Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Colorado can be chalked up to City burning themselves out in the first half, hopefully thanks to the altitude, and Burki absolutely standing on his head. Tomorrow we face our first-ever repeat opponent, Portland, as they look to avenge City’s 2-1 victory in March. Klauss’ absence will be felt tomorrow, but City’s stellar 5-1 Open Cup victory over Union Omaha allowed many players with limited minutes to show exactly why they can be relied upon.
Let’s recap what’s been happening this week.
The Front Office
From one City to another - St. Louis City SC named Diego Gigliani its president and general manager, set to start in the summer. I for one am excited for this appointment as it brings yet another executive with global soccer experience into the fold.
The Squad
Sam Adeniran is headed to San Antonio FC after four appearances so far this season. The imposing forward hasn’t quite found his place among Klauss’ dominance and Gioacchini’s emergence, so another year in San Antonio should prove valuable to his growth as a player.
The Rules
UEFA is seeking clarity on the handball rule, which I think all soccer fans can agree is a much-needed conversation. As the single most influential governing body outside FIFA itself, we can expect this decision to resonate throughout the soccer world.
Quick Hits
Quite a few this week. It was a busy one.
U.S. Soccer appointed Matt Crocker as its new sporting director, a monumental step in what has been months of uncertainty following Reynagate, the end of Berhalter’s contract, and Earnie Stewart’s departure. This is a great hire, breaking up the U.S. Soccer boys’ club.
St. Louis City SC fans set a third round attendance record for the Open Cup. It’s what we do.
Kyle Hiebert is very, very good at his job.
Giannis Antetokounmpo had a fantastic message on failure and success in sports, following Milwaukee’s early exit from the NBA Playoffs. Not soccer, but worth it.
Leagues Cup start times are set. Have your coffee ready for the next morning.
St. Louis will travel to Chicago for the next round of the Open Cup.
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