Something in the Making: Lam Matteo

[Matt10]

Week 2​

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(0-0-1) Real Salt Lake vs (0-1-0) Kansas City Wizards
4/3/22
KC Soccer Stadium (Kansas City, KS), 7 PM ET
Weather - Sunny​

 

[Matt10]

KC Wizards 2-1 Real Salt Lake

Updated: April 3, 2022, 10:13 PM ET​

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Wizards pull off victory in front of home support
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<TABLE align=right><TBODY><TR><TD bgColor=#000099 align=left>Match Stats</TD><TR><TR><TD bgColor=#000099></TD><TD bgColor=#000099>KC</TD><TD bgColor=#000099>RSL<TR><TD>Shots (On Target)</TD><TD>11 (5)</TD><TD>18 (5)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Fouls</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>4</TD></TR><TR><TD>Corners</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>3</TD></TR><TR><TD>Offsides</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Possession</TD><TD>49%</TD><TD>51%</TD></TR><TR><TD>Yellow Cards</TD><TD>3</TD><TD>0</TD></TR><TR><TD>Red Cards</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>0</TD></TR><TR><TD>Saves</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>3</TD></TR>





</TBODY></TABLE>

Kansas City, KS (AP) -- Kerry Zavagnin stated that there would be goals scored this weekend against Real Salt Lake, and his men definitely delivered through Lam Matteo and Kei Kamara. Matteo bagged his first MLS career goal, while Kamara is only 4 goals away from topping all-time Wizards goal leader, Preki (71).
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This evening, Kamara's goal turned out to be the match winner after RSL's Espindola scored with ten minutes remaining. The goal a produce of some ruthless defending and air it out attack by the visitors.

The match began with two shots, one was on Kempin's goal, which the KC goalie had no trouble with after Beckerman wriggled free before shooting a dribbler. The second, was a blast from captain Davy Arnaud - who launched a knuckler from 30-yards out, the ball dead-spinned in the air before glancing just wide of Rimando's goal.

After the two initial shots, it was a defensive battle for both sides, due to some lackluster passing from the midfielders, even the highly regarded passing pro, Kyle Beckerman.

"We struggled to find eachother today," the 32-year old reflects, "They (KC) pressured us to no end, a very high line that just was not easy to get by - they were well disciplined even when we tried to mix it up with some long balls too."

Even though the Wizards defense seemed to prevail on the RSL attack, the three forwards up top yet again failed to communicate effectively, in particular Diop who chose to hold onto the ball a bit longer than his teammates Lam Matteo and Kei Kamara wanted.

The opening goal came a result of nothing but hard work by Wizards forward, Lam Matteo. Matteo, signed in the preseason, had launched onto a through ball by Roger Espinoza, but it scooted past the forward. However, instead of stopping, he raced on in towards RSL keeper Rimando - who baffled the crowd by using his feet instead of his hands.

The result was a heavy touch by the RSL keeper, and Matteo took advantage by dispossessing him instantly, and was left with nothing but a tap in.

"Funnily enough I was pretty nervous with a wide open goal," Matteo chuckled post game, "You put all that effort into a play - then bam, it's on a silver platter - weaker players would think the "what ifs", I just smashed it home - and breathed a sigh of relief."

The goal was definitely what the Wizards needed right before half time; and at the start of the second half, Kei Kamara made it two nil after his hard work paid off running onto a through ball, then having his initial shot saved by Rimando - before having the ball bounce back to Kamara, who made no mistake and pushed the ball under the keeper for the second goal of the game.

"We needed that goal pretty badly," stated manager, Kerry Zavagnin, "I know as a team you always need goals, but we needed to show them what we intended to do in the second half - we weren't going to let off the gas pedal."

Real Salt Lake shared the sentiment, and the visitors left nothing on the field - and when Espindola scored in the 80th minute, instead of the Wizards heads dropping, Zavagnin answered by bringing on the speedy forward Chetri.

Chentil's pace combined with Matteo's first touch proved to keep the ball away from the desperate Real Salt Lake side, and the fina whistle blew to confirm the first win of the season for the Wizards.
​

---
Match Summary:

Wizards Goals: Matteo 45', Kamara 58'
Real Salt Lake Goals: Espindola 80'

Caution: Matteo (KC), Thomas (KC), Leathers (KC)
Substitutions: 69' Beltran for Russell (RSL), 75' Chetri for Diop (KC), 83' Campos for Gonzalez (RSL), 89' Leathers for Rocastle (KC)

Gameshots:

Matteo celebrates his first goal for KC, Kamara gets his shoes shined after some hard work​

-----------------------------------
2022 Kansas City Wizards Schedule
----------------------------------------------------------
March
3/27/22 - v Chivas USA (away) -Draw 0-0

April
4/3/22 - v Real Salt Lake (home) - Won 2-1
4/17/22 - v Houston (away)
4/24/22 - v LA Galaxy (home)


Easy as they come
Great to have the first goal

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[Matt10]

Week 3

(1-1-0) Kansas City Wizards vs (1-0-2) Houston Dynamo
4/17/22
Robertson Stadium (Houston, TX), 7 PM ET
Weather - Cloudy, chance of Rain

 

[Matt10]

Houston 4-3 KC Wizards

Updated: April 17, 2022, 11:26 PM ET​

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Matteo's performance shadowed by Ngwenya's late winner
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<TABLE align=right><TBODY><TR><TD bgColor=#000099 align=left>Match Stats</TD><TR><TR><TD bgColor=#000099></TD><TD bgColor=#000099>HOU</TD><TD bgColor=#000099>KC<TR><TD>Shots (On Target)</TD><TD>12 (6)</TD><TD>13 (7)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Fouls</TD><TD>7</TD><TD>6</TD></TR><TR><TD>Corners</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Offsides</TD><TD>2</TD><TD>2</TD></TR><TR><TD>Possession</TD><TD>49%</TD><TD>51%</TD></TR><TR><TD>Yellow Cards</TD><TD>1</TD><TD>0</TD></TR><TR><TD>Red Cards</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>0</TD></TR><TR><TD>Saves</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>4</TD></TR>













</TBODY></TABLE>

Houston, TX (AP) -- Joseph Ngwenya's 87th minute blast from outside the box was enough to put the Houston Dynamo past an inspired Kansas City Wizard side, led by the incredible two goal-and assist performance by Lam Matteo.
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Ngwenya's goal, however, was worth more than 100 goals after the team had got slapped around by Toronto last week in a 3-1 loss in front of their home fans.

"This win means the world to me, my fans, our fans, everyone," said an exhausted Ngwenya after the game, "After last week, we were almost ashamed to show up on the pitch again - glad we did."

The first goal of the game came as a result of some unfortunate play by Craig Rocastle, who's attempt to clear a dangerous ball on a Houston corner kick ended up flying into the air and spinning over Kempin in the KC goal, and fell just over the line before Espinoza tried to conceal by clearing the ball. However the play was called - a goal for Houston - a terrible way to start for the Wizards.

The response was swift however, and 5 minutes later, a quick one two through pass between Matteo and Kamara on the sideline allowed the speedy Sierra Leon international to race down to the edge of the goalline. Kamara spotted his teammate Matteo, and with a tight angle, managed to squeeze the ball in between the keeper and onrushing defender. Matteo showed his natural goal scoring ability by sliding into the ball's path, barely scuffing the ball, and pushing it softly into the back of the net.

The jubilation for the Wizards quickly became pure anger when the Dynamo's Corey Ashe scored just two minutes later against the run of play. The reason for the anger from Kansas City was because center back, Shavar Thomas had fallen down untouched clutching his knee, resulting in the Dynamo to possess the ball. Instead of playing the ball out of play, Houston continued and attacked - scoring the goal.

"That was disrespectful, man," says Kamara post game, "You have to know your unspoken rules, man. Just a poor display by them - they did not deserve a goal, much less the win."

Thomas was subbed out, and on stepped a continuing improving Johnathan Leathers - Thomas' injury has not yet been released to the public, but rumors state it could be a torn ligament in his left knee.

The second half brought on more chances for each club, and down 2-1, Matteo would almost find the net when he latched onto a good cross by Chetri - but the ball was straight at the keeper.

Kansas City were immediately punished for their missed chance when Obodai managed to wriggle free of Espinoza's close marking, before heading a bullet past the helpless Kampin. The ball struck the keeper in the forehead, but had enough juice to continue into the back of the net.

Down 3-1, Kerry Zavagnin subbed out an underperforming Chenri and brought some more height with Diop. Chance Myers was also introduced for a lackluster Graham Zusi.

In the span of two minutes Matteo and Kamara would find the back of the net two even the game up.

Matteo once again sped past the defense and even though the he was wide open, the cross by Chance Myers found Diop - who's header was strong enough to force Hall to punch at the ball. However, the keeper's punch was weak and the ball floated into the air, allowing Matteo to quickly nod it past everyone into the back of the net.

The Wizards number ten was involved in Kamara's goal after Chance Myers made good effort to steal the ball off of Corey Ashe's feet, before sending a low pass to Matteo - who quickly looked up and slotted a perfect through ball to the racing Kamara. Kamara dribbled inside, and unleashed a venomous, low drive past Hall to even up the game 3-3 with just under 30 minutes left.

The glaring moment of the game occured ten minutes later when once again Matteo placed a perfect through pass to Kamara. Kamara, one on one with Hall, opted instead to find a rushing Diop - but the striker's pass was off the mark and the keeper intercepted easily.

"That decision will be in my head the rest of the week, man."

To make matters worse, ten minutes later, and Ngwenya caught onto a loose ball, took a side step of Leathers' tackle, before letting off a beautiful, swerving, shot that started well outside Kampin's goal, before quickly sliding back into the target - and into the back of the net.

It was a dream goal for Ngwenya, who had been criticized post season for his lack of finishing touch.

The seven goal thriller concluded, and the Wizards players collapsed with exhaustion.

"We played our hearts out today - there's no doubt about that," says defender Michael Harrington, "We left it on the field - and even though we lost, we deserved to win."

"The boys didn't hold back - not once," states head coach, Zavagnin, "As a manager you can't ask for more than that. We will put our frustration, if any, into LA next weekend."
​

---
Match Summary:

Dynamo Goals: Rocastle 23' (OG), Ashe 30', Obodai 49', Ngwenya 87'
Wizards Goals: Matteo 28' 62', Kamara 64'

Caution: Appiah (Houston)
Substitutions: 34' Leathers for Thomas (KC), 52' Appiah for Ashe (HOU), 52' Myers for Zusi (KC), 52' Diop for Chetri (KC), 72' Serioux for Palmer (HOU), 84' Weaver for Oduro (HOU)

Gameshots:

Kamara looks on as he sets up Matteo's first goal, but all was forgotten when Ngwenya's unlikely strike proved winner

-----------------------------------
2022 Kansas City Wizards Schedule
----------------------------------------------------------
March
3/27/22 - v Chivas USA (away) -Draw 0-0

April
4/3/22 - v Real Salt Lake (home) - Won 2-1
4/17/22 - v Houston (away) - Lost 3-4
4/24/22 - v LA Galaxy (home)

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g133/MLarnitt/og.png

Taking control
Two solid goals, and an assist

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(please note: second goal not recorded, FIFA cut it off before could record, sorry)
​

 

[Matt10]

Players Strike: 2022 MLS Play suspended

4/20/22​

New York, NY (AP) --- Breaking news arrived early this morning when MLS commissioner Alexi Lalas held an emergency news conference stating that the Major League Soccer player's union had developed a formula that would allow the players of the league to increase their yearly salary, plus bonuses. However, the league has rejected the proposal, stating that the formula developed interferes with the organization's plans for a World Cup bid in 2026.

"This is a sensitive subject," started Lalas, "In the history of MLS we have never had a player strike - I wish not to be part of one now. The proposal we received from Eric (Wynalda) and his party is not something the board can agree on. We have voted, and the results are in, ladies and gentleman - the proposal is denied - the season must continue."

The PFU (Player's Federation Union) had no comment as of yet, however it was quite clear what board member representative Eric Wynalda was thinking when asked on what would be the solution to the strike:

"It's a catch-22 to be honest. The only way for us to remove the unwanted strike is to pay the players more than they are currently making - I'm talking 30% increases."

According to financial analysts, the only alternate method to "free up" funds would be in regards to contractual stipulations, which involve Designated Players (DPs, international players) from within the last 3 years to be released and/or traded by the current respective MLS club.

"That is an option we have considered," replied Lalas, "But who is going to decide someone else's future like that. You? Certainly not me. We will take a vote today."

If the vote goes in favor of releasing 3-year prior DPs, this would mean the likes of Michael Owen, Jeremy Rothen, and would also include USA international abroad inbound transfers, Lam Matteo and Charlie Davies. ​

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[Matt10]

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Leaving So Soon Matteo released due to MLS player's strike

Kansas City, KS - Just over a month ago, it was complete bliss for the Wizards organization when Lam Matteo stepped onto the podium, flashing his number 10 kit, full of blue shades. Today, news arrived from Wizards front office that the 31-year old US international will be released into the free agency pool by the end of the week.

"It is a sad day in our history," states Wizards chairman Peter Vermes, "Matteo was starting to be hailed as our savior. I know there would be no doubt of a post season berth with him.

All that aside though, Lam is an incredible player. Someone the Wizards are proud to have had in our organization. His contributions will be surely missed - and I hope he returns someday for a front office position."

Matteo declined to comment in person, but did issue a statement:

"Difficult is an understatement in regards to what my family and I are going through right now. We hope to find a resolution outside of the country soon. Thank you to all for your support - hope to be on the pitch shortly."

Lam Matteo has recorded 3 goals in his first 3 MLS matces (2 against Houston), and an assist before his departure.
​

 

[Matt10]

Roy Hodgson passes
Cottagers, Ex-Cottagers to attend weekend funeral

One of the most successful managers in the Premier League, Roy Hodgson, passed away early this morning due to a possible heart attack.

[Breaking News] Fulham FC received news this morning that long serving, and retired, manager Roy Hodgson has passed away from a possible heart attack in his London suite.

Hodgson, who turned 74 last August, was hailed as the most successful manager in Fulham's history, and has been recepient of numerous awards from the FA Premier League throughout the yeras.

Current Fulham manager, Roberto Martinez, expressed his condolences to the Hodgson family in a press conference this afternoon:

"We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing regarding an incredible individual that was Roy Hodgson. He touched the world of football like noone could ever do. His accomplishments in this life will never be forgotten - may he rest in peace."

There will be a private ceremony in London this Saturday to honor the passing of Roy Hodgson.
​

 

[Matt10]

Visiting London
Hodgson's funeral only mark on Matteo's agenda?

Speculation has quietly rose to the surface that Lam Matteo's appearance at Roy Hodgson's funeral this weekend will spark the out of work striker a job with the Cottagers, either as a player, or possible assistant manager to Roberto Martinez.

While I have not spoken to Matteo since the news of the MLS unfolding, I believe a move back to Craven Cottage would be the best thing for him right now. It would be a thrilling end to an illustrious career if it could be ended where he truly made a name for himself.
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[Matt10]

 

[Matt10]

 

[Matt10]

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[Matt10]

to be edited.

 

[Matt10]

Fulham 2023 Fixture List
Upcoming matches

 

[Matt10]

Debut so-so
Zero chances on goal

Matteo played well, he started and played a full 90 minutes, that is something to say for his current fitness level. Unfortunately Tottenham were very strong defensively, no shots - nada, let's hope he can break the bank against the Reds next weekend.

​

 

[Matt10]

Matteo was the force up front - but found the palms of Itandje, while Maxi Rodriguez was the hero at Anfield in the last ten minutes of the match.

Liverpool 1-0 Fulham
Maxi Rodriguez late goal nets Reds all points
-Johnson Peoples, August 2023
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'82 Maxi Rodriguez
Caution: Sent Off:

Caution: Schmidt (41) Sent Off:

Standings: Fulham (0-0-2, 0 pts -- 18th)
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Chances gone begging. Matteo had his chances in his second match of the season, but his shots were saved well by Liverpool's keeper, Itandje. This was a tough loss, especially because Fulham dominated the match, Matteo set up new signing Erding in the box, but the striker fluffed it over the bar - golden chances.

 

[Matt10]

CLUB NEWS. Roberto Martinez has added Bristol City striker, Danny Haynes, to the Fulham roster. The signing will give the depth a much needed boost in the striker spot. Haynes hold record for most goals scored in a season for the Npower Championship, last season leading the league with 32.

68 overall
Fee: $974,700 (3 years)

Notable transfers:

Bebe (Man U) >>>Mallorca
Maicon (Porto) >>> Rangers
Tafer (Lyon) >>> Ipswich Town
Suarez (Ajax) >>> Real Betis
Pato (AC Milan) >>> Inter Milan
Anderson (Man U) >>> Tottenham
Kakuta (Chelsea) >>> Newcastle
Aguero (Atl. Madrid) >>> Man U
Ronaldinho (AC Milan) >>> Liverpool
Adriano (Bayern M) >>> Bolton
Miguel (Valencia) >>> Blackpool
Santon (Inter) >>> Man U
Assaidi (1860) >>> Fulham

 

[Matt10]

It was a long awaited goal for Fulham, the first this season. Eager for the late win, Fulham keeper Akinfeev opts to out jump Matteo - and skies his header.

Fulham 1-1 Blackburn
Matteo gets first goal, points a piece
-Johnson Peoples, August 2023
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'75 Matteo
Caution: Sent Off:

'79 Di Santo
Caution: Sent Off:

Standings: Fulham (0-1-2, 1 pts -- 17th)
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First goal. After last week, a goal was badly needed, especially after his performance in front of goal. Today, he had the same chances, and was well saved by Robinson - but in the end, a beautiful cross by Joao Pereira was well met - and finished with ease. By the by - click here to see Matteo's first ever goal for Fulham years ago.

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[Matt10]

Matteo showed the Cottage how he loves being at Fulham with two goals, while new signing Erding chose to score his first goal as a Cottager in the win.

Fulham 3-0 Newcastle
Matteo-Erding connection breeds new excitement at Craven Cottage
-Johnson Peoples, September 2023
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'19 Matteo, '22 Erding, '83 Matteo
Caution: Matteo '28 Sent Off:

Caution: Taylor '62 Sent Off:

Standings: Fulham (1-1-2, 4 pts -- 15th)
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Stunning. An incredible display by Matteo - he was all over the field, and made some great plays. His two goals were gems, the first one was highly unlikely at an incredible angle. On top of scoring, he tried to set up fellow striker Erding; but of course on the second goal the favor was returned - and unlike Erding, Matteo took advantage.

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[Matt10]

Bakkal may have scored two goals himself, but Erding's were more dramatic - especially when he saw Scott Carson fumble a routine cross, directly into the striker's path for the crucial goal.

Fulham 3-3 West Brom
Erding officially becomes hero for Cottagers
-Johnson Peoples, September 2023
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'75 Erding, '89 Ximelez, '92 Erding
Caution: Coutadeur '30 Sent Off:

'6 Bakkal, '7 Bakkal, '55 Dorran
Caution: Ceara '62 Sent Off:

Standings: Fulham (1-2-2, 5 pts -- 12th)
Next Match: at Bolton 11th, 6 pts
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Rested, but needed. Even though Matteo put in 20 minutes, he was still given a 7.5 rating for his play up front, replacing the immobile Jovetic. Matteo had one shot on goal - but was well saved by Scott Carson in the West Brom goal. Matteo expects to play next week against Bolton, and after coming in for as little as he did, Roberto Martinez will be smart to continue playing the striker when he's fit.

 

[Matt10]

Matteo gave Fulham a fighting chance after conceding, but Negredo's persistence paid off for the home side.

Bolton 2-1 Fulham
Negredo snatches points away from Cottagers
-Johnson Peoples, September 2023
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'12 K.Davies, '76 Negredo
Caution: Chung Yong '82 Sent Off:

'18 Matteo
Caution: Sent Off:

Standings: Fulham (1-2-3, 5 pts -- 16th)
Next Match: at Everton 13th, 6 pts
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Cool finish. The right place at the right time - and how about that for a left footed strike? Not bad if I do say so myself, which I do. Matteo played well, and is showing no signs of slowing down - he's got the goals to prove he's still got what it takes to play at the highest level. It's just too bad he couldn't score anymore to conserve the much needed points.

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwJHhBQZNmg[/ame]