MLS: Off the ball drama provides entertainment
The MLS season is two weeks old, and while much of the entertainment has come from the players, there is still much off-the-ball drama that has excited and enthralled.
The players are the focus of every game, but it takes many people to present the game to the audience. Not just players achieve milestones and set records, of all varieties. There are always opportunities to improve the product and it does not always involve throwing money at foreign players.
Here are some of the most significant off-the-ball moments in MLS thus far.
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Points of Emphasis
This season, referees were instructed to give cards for keepers holding the ball or not putting the ball in play. Referee Christopher Penzo had the nerve to enforce the rule as intended, with the Columbus Crew GK Zach Steffan offending in the 51st minute. It was nice to see. Many rules in all sports are often implemented without ever being executed properly. This was not the case here.
VAR Controversy
Referee Sorin Stoica initially ruled a Minnesota United foul as out of the penalty area. But then, upon VAR review, he reversed his decision. Penalty. Controversy. No replay on MLS Live showed a clear and obvious angle to support a reversal.
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VAR was also called for in the Los Angeles FC game, with many tweets were made in jest. Latif Blessing was, somehow, adjudged to be in an onside position from a square pass across the penalty area. Real Salt Lake fans do not have many complaints, though, as this was a rout. Nevertheless, the use of VAR reigned as a key and controversial moment.
In the Atlanta v DC game, VAR replay also led to a yellow card being issued to Greg Garza for a tackle on Paul Arriola. The play was called back well after the tackle. In most cases, VAR has been justified but tackles with some extra sauce? It is hard to justify the use of VAR to judge if a tough tackle was too tough in slow motion.
Media Production and Fan Engagement
It is hard to adapt to the camera angles at Yankee Stadium after watching the ESPN Atlanta feed. Seeing the build-up to a goal is more important than seeing a close-up of a short pass sideways. MLS should use the situation to explore innovative options. Use NYCFC games to innovate with camera work like the NFL and its use of SkyCam tech.
Iris Cisneros, first woman as a broadcast announcer on a US-aired Spanish language soccer match. Congrats.
LAFC is doing great on the field, but receiving tons of criticism for its lack of tweets from its Spanish outlet on game days. This will need to improve if they are to garner a market in this sport.
Next: Minnesota United: Player ratings vs Orlando City
The start of MLS has been scintillating and unpredictable. But there has been more to celebrate than just the on-pitch drama. There are other developments that are very much worth noting. It will be interesting to see how they change and evolve as the season progresses.