Cinderella

In 2008 The New York Red Bulls made the playoffs as the eight seed and lost in the Finals. In 2009 Real Salt Lake made the playoffs as the eight seed and won the MLS Cup. This year, the San Jose Earthquakes made the playoffs as the eight seed and as of tonight eliminated the biggest beast in their way to the MLS Cup FInal.

The New York Red Bulls were up one goal on aggregate going into tonight's game and ended up playing like rubbish. Henry came into the game late to "save his team" but was too late. No offense to San Jose, but the game was given to them on a plate by the New York defense. Marques was terrible, Henry was obviously healthy but couldn't finish an easy header for his team, and Angel finally scored but was playing injured.

3-2 San Jose on aggregate scoring. Sad day for the Red Bulls, they were destined for the Finals, but rested Henry at the wrong time, and gave the year away on silly play defensively. New York has all the right pieces, but it takes more than individuals to win in the Beautiful Game. It takes heart and will and unity. The Earthquakes are the Cinderella this year and are a worthy team to beat anyone left standing in the playoffs. Thats why I love this game. You never know.