Kick Me

Don’t Worry, Be Happy? That’s what we’re left with after ninety minutes of Major League Soccer?

While I realized the league was plagued with ties, I was still startled when play ended with the score tied at one, and the stadium announcer immediately said, "Thanks for supporting The Kansas City Wizards. Good night." And Bobby McFerrin's novelty hit echoed throughout the stadium.

The future of the franchise is unclear; they will likely move from Kansas City after the season. And with less than 5,000 people in attendance, it’s clear that the current arrangement is failing. It was so quiet that much of the time grunts and utterances by players were audible.

This scribe excepted, most of those present understood the game and knew the players. Kids, their soccer coaches, and displaced Europeans and Latin Americans were refined, appreciative spectators. (Most people didn't come dressed as the couple pictured.)

Sixteen-year-old pop culture star Freddy Adu started for DC United. He had moments of brilliance, but for the most part, he was outclassed by old men like Davy Arnaud and Scott Sealy. The top players are off participating in an international tournament. Still, the artful performances of the two teams was impressive.

But if this tie business can't be fixed, the Bobby McFerrin problem must be addressed.