CARSON, Calif. – Chivas USA goalkeeper Dan Kennedy has certainly enjoyed an All-Star caliber season. But whether or not the Rojiblancos’ phenomenal backstop makes it onto the squad remains to be seen.
The 29-year-old was beaten out of First XI nod by Sporting Kansas City’s Jimmy Nielsen, but remains in the hunt for later selection by All-Star head coach Ben Olsen. The D.C. United head coach will fill out the 18-man roster on Sunday.
Kennedy appears to be a strong candidate for selection as he is currently among the league leaders in saves (58), shutouts (five) and goals against (18).
While his résumé certainly speaks for itself, the ever-humble Kennedy attributes this success to the play of his back four.
“It’s nice that my name is being mentioned in the mix, anytime a goalkeeper is getting recognized, a lot of it has to do with the players that are in front of him,” Kennedy offered. “Particularly our team has a very solid defense and I reap the reward of that. I think that’s going to keep that team in the mix so we take pride in that.”
LaBrocca optimistic on offensive woes
Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Vancouver marked the eighth time this season Chivas USA were held scoreless. Midfielder Nick LaBrocca believes that the attacking troubles will be coming to an end sometime soon, however.
“We’re right there, we got a bunch of good looks and ones that we worked for, but we’re right there and as frustrating as it is today, we need to keep going and those will come for us,” LaBrocca explained after the draw. “We need to keep possession and work our way in and maybe that will open up chances for us later on.”
U17/18s learn USSDA Finals Week fate
Chivas USA’s U17/18 team learned their US Soccer Development Academy Finals Week schedule, which will take place from July 16 to July 23 in Houston.
After going undefeated and winning Group 6 during last month’s USSDA playoffs, the Rojiblancos were placed in Group 2 alongside FC Dallas, Chelsea Solar SC and Baltimore Bays Chelsea.
Should Chivas’ youngsters win their group, they will face the winners of group 1 in the USSDA Final at BBVA Compass Stadium on July 23.
Adam Serrano covers Chivas USA for MLSsoccer.com. He can be reached at adam.m.serrano@gmail.com.
