Sports

Players to watch in Pro Soccer Challenge

By Doug Roberson
March 8, 2011

The Atlanta Pro Soccer Challenge will feature a mix of young and established stars in Major League Soccer.

The three teams will play a round-robin series of exhibition games Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at KSU Soccer Stadium in Kennesaw.

Here are a few players to watch:

Forwards

Brian Ching, Houston

The most recognizable player in the Challenge because of his 45 appearances and 10 goals with the U.S. National team. He has scored 72 goals in since debuting with Los Angeles in 2001.

Jeff Cunningham, Columbus

The veteran scores goals wherever he goes, totaling 28 the past two seasons for Dallas. The 34-year-old Jamaican has 132 goals in MLS since he made his debut in 1998.

Dominic Oduro, Houston

The speedy Ghanian tied for the team lead with seven goals last season. His scoring has steadily increased since he made his debut with Dallas in 2006 after a standout career at Virginia Commonwealth.

Goalkeeper

Matt Reis, New England

He holds every team goalkeeping record, including games played (188), games started (187), minutes played (16,842), goals against average (1.29), wins (75), saves (757), shutouts (50) and save percentage (.729).

Midfielders

Brad Davis, Houston

He had 12 assists last season, third-best in MLS, to earn team MVP honors for the second consecutive season. He has made five appearances with the U.S. team.

Eddie Gaven, Columbus

The U.S. international has been steady in the middle for the Crew for the past five seasons, scoring 21 goals in more than 130 appearances.

Shalrie Joseph, New England

The Grenadan has spent his career with the Revolution since signing in 2002. A seven-time All-Star, Joseph is a dominating player in the air.

Marko Perovic, New England

The Serbian brings years of experience playing in Europe, most recently at Basel in Switzerland. A lefty, he's capable of playing midfield or tucked just behind the forwards. He was the Revolution's most valuable player last season after scoring a team-high six goals.

Robbie Rogers, Columbus

Rogers is a creative player, but like the rest of the Crew he has struggled to score goals.

***

Atlanta Pro Soccer Challenge

Where: KSU Soccer Stadium

Tickets: www.theatlantabeat.com

Schedule:

  • Wednesday: Columbus vs. New England, 7:30 p.m.
  • Friday: Columbus vs. Houston, 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday: Houston vs. New England, 3 p.m.
  • About the Author

    Doug Roberson covers the Atlanta United and Major League Soccer.

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