MLS All Stars vs Everton
Major League Soccer has confirmed that Everton FC of the English Premier League will face off against a group of MLS All-Stars on July 29. The 2009 MLS All-Star game will take place in Real Salt Lake’s home ground, Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah.
“We are very excited about Everton FC agreeing to be the opponent for the 2009 MLS All-Star Game,” MLS commissioner Don Garber said. “Everton is an elite European club that features many world-class players – including former MLS standout Tim Howard – who will challenge our unbeaten record against English Premier League teams in the MLS All-Star Game series. We’re looking forward to seeing Tim back in action against many of his former MLS teammates, and to providing our fans with another exciting All-Star matchup.”
Tim Howard is a veteran of the 2001 and 2002 All-Star games. He recently helped Everton reach the FA Cup final in England. The club sits sixth in the EPL standings.
“I can’t wait to play the MLS All-Stars,” said the U.S. international goalkeeper. “I will doubtless know a few of the guys from the U.S. team, and I know full well that it will be a real test for us at that stage of our pre-season. The fans over there always enjoy watching English teams in action and I’m sure there will be a terrific atmosphere in the stadium.”
Howard will be looking to help Everton become the first European side to win against the All-Star team. The MLS side has won all five previous matchups, outscoring opponents 13-4. Last season, goals from Cuauhtemoc Blanco, Christian Gomez and Dwayne De Rosario gave the All-Stars a 3-2 victory over West Ham United.
Thanks Goal.com!
