Deseret News | Reader comments: Real Salt Lake: Mathis poised to return to RSL

Reader comments
Real Salt Lake: Mathis poised to return to RSL

SoccerFan | 6:27 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I am actually excited about this acquisition. Clint is a good player that we didn't have to give a lot for. We had an open spot and to pick up a solid role player is not a bad move.
Yes there might be some baggage with this move, but every player has baggage. And Kries won't let egos get in the way of the big picture.
Having a few more veteran players in the mix won't hurt at all if we get into the playoffs or even for next year if we qualify for SuperLiga or Champions Cup.
Not a savior just a solid player.
Welcome back Cleetus!

Ryan | 6:35 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

"We just want Clint to be a good teammate"

So let's see... Nobody else in the world wanted him, and so now WE'RE bringing him in to do something he's never been able to do?

There's something seriously wrong with this.

Maximus! | 6:46 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED?!?!

Comments continue below

uvsoccerfan | 7:25 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

The MLS always gets the worlds left-overs. RSL has a chance to make the playoffs and Clint wants to get on the wagon. We don't need him!

I Agree.... | 7:42 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

with Ryan. I don't think I am entertained.

Maximus Mathis | 7:48 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

MM. Not too bad. Congrats Clint. Welcome back!

Now go score some goals!

Mathis | 8:39 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

He is one of my favorite players, at least we know we have another gritty player who's not afraid to defend his team when needed. I wonder how long it will take until he gets a red card? Welcome back Mathis!

Runnerboy3118 | 8:41 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I just remember 2002 WC, agaist South Korea. WOW that was neat. I think having an extra player like Mathis, who is by far better than any of us here on the post, will be great. He is one of my favorite players. This will be good. Now if the DR. will become the "Good DR." life will be sweet.

Yikes! | 8:50 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

No one else wants him...Why do we?!?!

Re: Runneryboy3118 | 9:00 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

"by far better than any of us here on the post"

You sure about that?

I think you'd be surprise to find out who is posting on here.

Love,
Landon

Gino | 9:15 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I am not a fan of RSL, but am very happy to see Mathis coming back. 6 goals and 2 assists in 26 matches for NY in 07. Same output would have made him the leading scorer for RSL last year. Finley is your man now and he only has 5/2 in 19 matches. So don't be so hard on the man. If nothing else, Cleetus is entertaining.

denz | 9:19 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Actually rumor is that a number of teams in MLS were interested in Clint, but he wanted to return here. He owns a house here, he enjoyed Salt Lake, and he knows and respects Jason.

Clint scored as many goals in MLS last year than any player on RSL's roster, he has proven that he can score goals in this league and is a great assist guy. His average is a goal or assist in every other game.

Does anyone on the current RSL roster come close to that? Only one Javi, your saying you don't want another player on our roster with that level of productivity? Last year his rate was one goal or assist for every 3 matches, and that still is better than most of the RSL roster. A newly married, new father, and mature Clint Mathis could be a very motivated player, and that could spell trouble for those who think RSL will falter this fall.

Cheese and Whine | 9:42 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Who else were we going to pick up before the deadline that could make an impact this season? If Clint has been practicing with the team for the last month and Kreis feels like he can be a "good teammate" then who's to say he hasn't changed. Families do change people priorities.

We know we won't have Clint's ridiculous contract from '05, so why not sign one of the most talented (though underperforming) players in the states and see if he can change things around? He is very talented and has potential to help any team.

There aren't many people on the market with his skill and vision on the ball. I don't understand why so many people are so antsy about his signing. We've had a wait-and-see type approach to all of Kreis and Lagerway's personnel moves up til now, why not give this one more of a chance.

Good one "Landon"

Minerman | 9:48 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Didn't like his attitude before. Maybe having a baby will change it....no? Oh well. Wishful thinking. This is Kries' first big mistake as coach. Guess he was feeling sentimental for the good ol' days. I love RSL, but I'm slightly less excited to watch if he gets on on the field. He's gonna be like a lead weight in the locker room too. Just draggin everyone down every time he doesn't get what he wants...

RSL Ulty fan | 9:52 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Mathis is married and has a child. That usually changes most people. I think it doesn't hurt to try him again. He will come out with a vengeance. He has no high expectations from fans and nobody wants him anymore, so why not give him a shot? I hate to admit it, but I think Clint is serious this time around. So Landon, who are you? Do you play professional soccer? Mark my words, Mathis will be a good contributor to this team, not great, but good. Welcome back Mathis. I will be cheering for you.

RSL Ulty fan | 9:57 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Mathis has nothing to lose and everything to prove. He will come out with a vengeance. We didn't have to sacrifice anyone good to get him, so lets see what he can do. Welcome back Mathis. Hey Landon, who are you? Do you play professional soccer. I just can't imagine professional soccer players would actually care about these posts. Go RSL. Big game this weekend.

JVC-RSL | 10:07 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Runnerboy3118,

His goal against South Korea in 2002 is the reason I was so excited to have him on the team in 2005. It was one of the nicest, most clinical, and crucial goals ever scored by the U.S. 2005 was a disappointment, but the entire culture of the club has changed. If he brings a good attitude, I think he can have good success. We lead the league in shots, but are pretty far down the list in goals scored. He's a guy who can finish his chances when he gets a little space.

He has the ability to rise to a big occasion, so having him on board for the playoffs might not be a bad idea. I see him as a 75th minute super-sub, and from Jason's comments on the coaches show this week it sounds like the role he will play at least initially.

Way Excited!!!! | 10:25 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I love Clint and the way he plays. I think that this will help our squad. If you haven't noticed we still are not an offensive juggernaut. Our defense is the only reason we have been in games so why not add more potential to score.

Upon my signal, unleash hell | 10:26 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Clint:

A keg of Bud Light and a blank space on a birth certificate do not mix.

Andrew | 10:53 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Oh my god that "Maximus!" comment was priceless.

Horse | 10:55 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I have been way against this from the beginning. But if it is a done deal it is a done deal, and I hope more than anything that Mathis proves me wrong.

To me he was our biggest problem in 2005, so now he has a chance for some sweet redemption. Bring it Cleetus. Show us you still have it, and we will love you like no other fans could (except probably Toronto, they have a pretty amazing fan base.)

Landon D | 11:17 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I wasn't trying to rip on Mathis. He has had a very interesting and entertaining career. I just think its funny when an "absolute" statement is made on these posts.

And yes...I do play professional. Thanks

Why Not!!! | 11:19 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Too bad Clint is too bald to sport a mohawk!!! Welcome Back anyways!!

Mattc | 11:21 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Kries said on the radio that Mathis wasn't held accountable in 2005 for the stupid things he did- but that will change. I believe that- Kreis has sent more than his fair share of players packing for subordination. He wouldn't be afraid to do it again.

If Mathis can come off the bench and score a goal or two he's worth the price- just a short rental and let's see what happens. Go Cleetus! And go RSL!

I hate... | 11:42 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I hate to burst your bubble, but Mathis is not a friend of mine. I don't know why you all keep writing this. I did play with him on 2 different teams on 2 occasions. The Burn experience was good and I saw what a motivated Clint can do. The RSL experience was sad because our team had only 3 quality players, me, Clint, and Andy. I have watched Clint since he left and talked to him when available. I know this is a gamble, but one I think RSL will win. So, please give your support to Clint becuase he will need it.

JK

One thing is for sure | 11:40 a.m. Aug. 14, 2008

One thing is for sure, Clint has a lot of proving of himself to do here. I hope Jason and Garth saw the "we" player in Clint that he has not been known to be.
I am optomistic about this, however it could be a reason we falter in the end.

I'm crazy excited!!! | 12:05 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Ever since he had a Mohawk on the world cup team i've been a fan. If he really is on our team i'm gonna definetley get season tickets next year so i can watch a championship team in SLC finally. I think Clint can be the missing piece to our offense. Sometimes you need a little crazyness to make an attack work. I love this move

Bi-Polar Wannabe | 12:08 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Re-Minerman

"This is Kreis' first big mistake as coach." "He's gonna be like a lead weight in the locker room."

Where can I get my hands on your crystal future-reading ball? People have been questioning and criticizing Kreis and Lagerway since they got their jobs. And in 1 year they've turned the joke of the league into the first place team in the west.

I'm excited for the move. Why? Because I believe in Kreis... that almost sounds a bit sacreligious...

Welcome back Clint! Prove these Debbie-Downers, who like to coach from the computer, wrong.

RE: Landon | 12:17 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Hey "Landon" Runnerboy3118 here, not to be rude but I'm sure you are good, but there is a slight differance in skill level between PRL "Parowan Rec League" and the MLS, But I would still pay to see you play a match with the boys in red and blue.

RSLfans.com | 12:28 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I think this is a good move because RSL didn't have to give up anything to get him. So what if he doesn't play well (I think he will though). RSL is in need of more attacking and creative options. I think that Clint could be a good addition as a truly offensive minded right winger. He could provide better service to our forwards than any wide midfielder on our team.

I also have a question. Do we expect RSL to announce a striker signing by tomorrow? I know that the transfer window closed tomorrow and RSL has made it clear that it wants a striker. I know that a few targets have fallen through without MLS and RSL being able to make a deal happen. The lastest rumor is that we are after another Argentine forward. What do you know James?

Maximus Desmus Meridius | 12:53 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I will have my vengeance in this life or the next!

Mathis could be okay. As long as we are only paying him well under 100,000 and he's easily cuttable if problems come up, then I don't see the problem.

Come on you Reds! YNWA.

Landon D | 1:12 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I'm not bashing on Clint, I think he has had an interesting and entertaining career. I just find it humorous when people speak in "absolutes" in these posts.

And yes, I play professional soccer.

Thanks and good luck.

Clint | 1:44 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Comb-overhawk Just an idea.

RSL Ulty fan | 2:07 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

It kills me how people hate Jason Kreis and switch as soon as his team is in first place (bandwagoners, if that is a word). Hate on his decision on you want, but if you are a true fan then you should cheer and support the team no matter what!!! I love to play soccer, but will never be a 1/4 as good as Mathis or any MLS player for that matter.

Hey Landon, I highly doubt it, but are you Landon Donovan? Or just an imposer? Whatever the case, Go RSL. I have faith in your decisions even if you lose.

Cowboy | 2:40 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

RSL is appeasing the soccer gods and will benefit from this move. We're building up nicely to the big move into our Sandy haven!

Dray | 3:13 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I like this move, I like Kreis being aggressive. Mathis could be a good spark to keep up rolling in the last part of the season. I like the addition of an emotional player like Mathis. I really want to see RSL in the Superliga next year playing Chivas, Puchuca, or Emerica.

sciroccer | 3:11 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I like the price we paid for him. A 2 year marriage, and a 3 day old baby isn't going to change much, maybe that's a bad thing, maybe it will mellow out his competiveness? I know denz is right about the friendship between Kreis and Mathis. Jason was the best man at Clints wedding after he left Real Salt Lake. Let's just hope this isn't friends helping down and out friends? I'll give him the remainder of the season to prove he can do what we brought him here to do the first time. If not, well it's another guy we can save from the expansion draft list this November? I would rather see Mathis on that then 95% of RSL. Hopefully he can be the guy that gets service onto Kenny's head? Because he and Joy have been the biggest disappointments for me this year. I guess I set me hope on the Euro guys to high. However, I do have faith in Kreis! So Clint you'd better show this time baby!!!

Re: Runnerboy3118 | 3:23 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Not sure where Parowan is, but I'm glad you support your team, and are not afraid to pay for some good soccer.

RSL is having a great run, I hope you can keep it up.

Best of Luck,
LD

Real Boise | 3:33 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

I don't remember seeing this many comments on a soccer article in this paper in a very long time. The string of comments is also devoid of remarks from the xenophobic contingent who hate soccer just because it is not American football. Maybe they are too busy bashing other countries on Olympic websites.
I think that the Mathis pick up is a good one, a 3rd or 4th round pick is not much to give up for a guy with Clint's potential. This time should be different because he doesn't have to be the star and won't be expected to carry the team. No offense to the inaugural team but outside of JK, Pope, Andy and Cletus there was no one on that team who would have played significant minutes anywhere else. This time Clint will be a role player and he has something to prove so he will have to produce when he gets his chances. If he ends up being a problem I think Jason will boot him off the team without looking back. I think this is a win-win situation for the team and for Clint.

Coincidence? I think not | 5:31 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Notice how Mathis signed with RSL right before a stadium where beer is allowed opens.

T-ravis | 5:32 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

WTF!?!

Did we not learn our lesson after the last time? Why are we re-signing an, at best mediocre player? He may have been a decent player back in 2002, but it's 2008, and Clint is now well past his prime. I'm sure there are better players out there that are within RSL's grasp. It will take alot for Mathis to win me over. Who knows? Maybe we can trade him for Cunningham again? That's a move i'd be more than happy to see. BRING CUNNY BACK!

where did they... | 5:46 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

where did they go? I havn't seen haters posting on RSL blogs in over a month? I guess 1st place shut their pie holes.

Mathis, can you tell us what your plans are?

The Anti-Kreis | 8:32 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

HAHAHA HAHAHA HAHAHA...HAHAHA Good one!!!..NOT!!!!!!!!

sideponytail | 8:54 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Uhhh....(speechless)

I suppose all we can do is wait and see.

georg | 9:21 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Hay who's bashing the PRL? Parowan Rec Leaque "not a bad little soccer haven for a town of say 4000 people". Will Mathis help RSL? who knows but I may put some weight behind the idea that he signed because there are now beer sales at the new stadium.
I personally am still waiting on the promised striker.

Juice Box Guy | 11:21 p.m. Aug. 14, 2008

Besides Kreis, Andy Williams, Cutler, and Mathis can anyone name another player from the inaugural season (Matt Benckhe, Tiger Fitzpatrick, Bueller? anyone?, anyone?). I think people should forgot about the RSL 05 version of Mathis and think about the 07 NY Red Bull version that looked brilliant at times when he was surrounded by quality players and not the likes of Jaimie Watson, DJ Countess, and Leighton O'Brien! Cleetus will probably come off of the bench for the first few games for a midfielder or striker. He will probably have a similiar role to Andy Williams this year and will probably find the net a few times for us.

REaL NYC | 1:55 p.m. Aug. 15, 2008

Nobody was more disappointed with Cletus' first stint than yours truly. It was friggin awful.

But Kreis and the Front Office have earned quite a bit of respect for the moves they have made. Overall I'm dubious, but RSL under Kreis has earned the rope to hang themselves with.

bj | 12:08 p.m. Aug. 18, 2008

I have been optimistic this whole year and supportive of the moves made. However, I don't have a good feeling about this one. I want us (RSL) to succeed so I hope that feeling is wrong. But Cletus will have to have changed a lot in attitude and influence for this to be a good move. But hey, it could happen.

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