With win, Quakes eclipse recent expansion teams

Starting with last November’s expansion draft, a virtual parade of MLS analysts came forward to say, “Hey, this team looks like it could be the best expansion side since the Chicago Fire in 1998.” After last night’s thrilling victory over the Wizards, we have a reply: “Good prediction, virtual parade of analysts!”

Yes, it’s official: The 2008 San Jose Earthquakes, with 25 points from 22 games and a 6-9-7 record, are out-performing the most recent trio of MLS expansion teams.

Back in 2005, Chivas had accumulated a measly 12 points through their first 22 matches and ended the season with a woeful 18 points from their 4-22-6 record. Real Salt Lake was somewhat better, tallying 19 points from their first 22, but they went 0-9-1 in their last 10 games to finish with just 20 points. So, both of those sides have already been left in the dust.

Toronto FC came on board in 2007, and they were a bit better than both Chivas USA and RSL. After 22 matches, they had earned 20 points from a 5-12-5 record. TFC finished the season 6-17-7 for 25 points — exactly as many points as the Quakes have now. San Jose will put the Reds in the rear-view mirror with their next point.

Of course, being the best recent expansion team doesn’t mean much when your goal is to reach the playoffs. Last night’s win has the Quakes just two points behind third-place Chivas USA and five points behind second place RSL with eight games to play, five of which will be played at Buck Shaw Stadium.

Game on.

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Here’s the post-game press wrap:

- Our own Jeff Carlisle, writing for MLSnet.com, has a match report and a feature on the amazing Darren Huckerby.  MLSnet also has video highlights, which we present below, as well as a post-game video interview with Hucks:

- The San Jose Mercury News has a match report, as does the Kansas City Star.