Saturday Evening Union Free Kicks: Let’s Preview 2011!

Believe it or not, the Philadelphia Union's season starts a week from today.  With that being said, here is a look at what various media outlets are saying to preview the 2011 Philadelphia Union and the MLS season as well as some other news and notes concerning the Philadelphia Union, MLS, and soccer in general.  Use this thread as your weekend discussion thread.

MLS Preview:  18 Teams In 18 Days – #8 Philadelphia:  If The Union Can Keep The Ball Out Of The Net, They'll Be Fine [Ray Curren, WorldSoccerReader.com] – The improved Union defense will be the key to the season.

2011 Philadelphia Preview:  Expansion No More [Dave Zeitlin, philadelphiaunion.com] – The goal this year:  Go from struggling expansion team to playing in the MLS Cup.

'11 Season Preview: Union's Improved Roster Could Pay Dividends [Pat Martin, The Sports Network] – The Union could be expected to make the playoffs, but do not expect them to challenge for the MLS Cup yet.

Garber:  Boston, DC Next Targets For New Stadiums [Simon Borg, MLSSoccer.com] – I am all for anything that gets D.C. United out of RFK Stadium and into a stadium much more appropriate for soccer.

Help From Above [Michael Lewis, BigAppleSoccer.com] – By cracking down more on dangerous challenges, MLS Commissioner Don Garber hopes to better protect players and promote more attacking soccer.

VIDEO:  Emanuele Giaccherini And The Greatest Miss Of The Season [Graham MacAree, SBNation.com] – Mama mia.