Yesterday was a pretty sucky day, for certain. Knowing since the beginning of October that our captain and the greatest striker in MLS history, Juan Pablo Angel, wasn’t returning to the New York Red Bulls was a kick in the gut as it was. In my head, I wanted him to stay in the league, but avoid any of our main rivals (which happened!). Instead, he landed in the lap of Bruce Arena, the man responsible from stealing him away Aston Villa all those years ago. So, if he signs with the Galaxy, I know that the wife won’t want to part with those tickets this year.

Goodness, poor Preston Burpo. Sure, we played like ass once we were down to 9 players, but DAY-UMN, his leg injury was gnarly. You would think Angel’s diving header would have been enough to inspire us forward, but I guess not?

I won’t post this clip on the front page as it is GRAPHIC, but check it out “after the jump” (more…)

Photo: Getty Images via MLS

It’s tough watching the team struggle like they are. I used to find a way to blame Jon Conway, but right now, we’re very offensively stagnant and/or unlucky. Despite having the majority of possession, we aren’t attacking very well and are allowing the opposing teams to fall back into a defensive shell. It’s ugly footie, frankly. Last night’s 3-1 loss only highlights exactly what is wrong with the team: without creative people feeding Angel the ball (Lindpere and Nielsen were both out) we are pretty much a “bang it long and hope someone flicks it on goal” sort of team.

That or we flick it in. Like Salou or, last night, Tony Tchani.

Can Dane develop a “football mind?” I have no idea. Where’s Jozy when you need him? Thierry Henry might help, but the worst result from last night should have been a draw. That we also BLED three goals defensively (one 5 minutes after “Team Glidden” first scored and the clincher just after we had pulled one back), shows how little composure we have defensively. That’s not a skill issue. Someone needs to step up.

Hey IHJC readers, we are at the RBNY wrap party tonight, so if you’re coming out and want to say hi, feel free.

btw, the food is awesome!

Update (7:30): The sushi is great. Glad that I didn’t smush it on Luke Sassano.

Update (8:00): Tracy is star struck by Dane Richards. She wants to put him in her pocket.

Update (8:23): I finally got my photo with Angel. I told him “I am a Villa fan because of you.” Honestly, we got season tickets because he signed with RBNY. Soooooo happy.

Update (8:35): My wife is cute. Matthew Mbuta introduced himself to her and she told him he was a great addition to the team. Nice.

Update (8:38): Someone “Jon Conwayed” on the floor. Stinky.

Update (8:55): Where is Ives?

Update (10:21): No MLS player should have to take one for the team. That’s really all I can say, but we should have bailed that dude out.

Update (10:45): David Roth CAN move! That crazy dude won’t stop dancing.

Update (10:47): “Luke Sassano looks like any 16 year old at a bar mitzah” might be my favorite line of the night.

Update (10:51): Just saw John Gilkerson in the men’s room. Asked him if he knew David Roth could move like that. He said, “no.” I <3 John Gilkerson.

Update (12:06 AM ET): Dear G-d, I am so bombed that I don’t know how I am going to get to work tomorrow. Please…get me to work in the morning in one piece. Please?

Also, thanks to IHJC and RBNY diehards Jacob and Ethan for finding us tonight and keeping me there WELL past my bedtime. Ugh.