Morning Kickaround

*Insider loyalists were in the know before anyone else yesterday about Franco Niell's imminent departure. Late in the day, DCU made the official announcement, but without even the standard "We'd like to thank so-and-so for his contributions....." Just three paragraphs and no comments from club officials. Ouch!

*Dallas and Houston played to a 1-1 tie at Estadio Robertson, a result that gave FCD the season series on away goals and, as a reward, "El Capitan", the howitzer cannon that serves as the rivalry trophy. How did Pablo Ricchetti's brutal tackle from behind on Stuart Holden not earn a red card? Video highlights available here.

*Read Mike Wise's column about the Homeless World Cup and the release of a documentary about the tournament. Enjoy Dan Steinberg's Sports Bog item about Quavas Kirk and David Beckham. Check out details on the new National Soccer Hall of Fame Web site.