Hard to believe 10 years have passed since I witnessed perhaps the bravest goalkeeping performance in MLS history. Mike Ammann of the MetroStars, just 45 days after having his lungs punctured by the studs of a reckless Mamadou Diallo, came back to play in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals (back when it was best of three).
Heavily bandaged and nowhere close to full strength, Ammann kept a clean sheet as the Metros won 2-0 to force Game 3 in Chicago. The defense held firm in front of Ammann, but he was forced to make one huge stop on a wicked volley off the left foot of Hristo Stoichkov. Ammann has told me he doesn't know how he did it.
For my money, Ammann could be the most underrated keeper in league history. He was good for Kansas City and traded to Metro, where he had to earn the fans' respect because he was replacing Tony Meola. He was later dealt to DC United when Metro had to clear the way for Timmy Howard. He was good for DC United, too. The man is a student of goalkeeping and currently trains a cast of young prospects in Virginia.
What's more, Ammann is my all-time favorite interview. So who better to ask for an assessment of this weekend's MLS keepers. Here's a brief Q&A with Ammann:
Q: How do you rate FC Dallas keeper Kevin Hartman?
Ammann: Kevin's greatest strength is experience. He's a true shot stopper who organizes well and provides a sense of confidence in his defense. The big-game setting will not disrupt him. He's played in big games and is a true veteran who knows what it takes mentally.
Q: Does he have any weaknesses?
Ammann: He's got a bum knee which doesn't allow him to take goal kicks. This somewhat limits his mobility. When Daniel Hernandez is forced to take goalkicks it can result in a breakdown in the shape of the back four when the kick is less than perfect.
Q: And how about Colorado's Matt Pickens?
Ammann: His greatest strength is his size [he is 6-foot-3]. Like Hartman, he's a very good shot stopper. His weakness [is that] he's too rooted to his line for a big man. He does not command his area as much as he should and struggles on deep crosses and movement from post to post. The pressure of the occasion may get to him. Plus, he has the worst facial hair since Lalas back in his glory days. Sorry, Alexi.
Q: So, who has the edge? Sounds like Dallas?
Ammann: Yes, overall the advantage goes to Dallas, who have called on Kevin to keep them in games with a crucial save and at times multiple saves. If Colorado can get in behind the back four and force Kevin to the edge of his area, they may find some joy. As for Dallas, their attack will find success if they are quick to counter and also utilize their pace and skill in and around the box. Early service from their wide players will cause concern for Colorado's back four.