Columbus — Pending the May 6 approval of a three-year 1/2 cent sales tax issue (to help build a new arena/soccer stadium complex) by the voters in Franklin County, MLS has awarded MLS Cup 2000 and the 2001 MLS All-Star Game to the city of Columbus.
“The unprecedented nature of awarding [the two events] in advance is testimony to the city of Columbus taking the leadership initiative to design a soccer-specific stadium,” said MLS commissioner Doug Logan.
Dallas — Salvadoran midfielder Jorge Rodriguez, who had been delayed several weeks by visa problems, finally made his MLS debut for the Burn, scoring the team’s lone goal in a 2-1 loss at Columbus.
D.C. United — Honduran defender Arnold Cruz will join D.C. after all. Morelia of the Mexican First Division agreed to honor the original terms of its agreement with MLS and will loan Cruz to United for the 1997 season. Cruz is expected to join the team in time for the April 19 match against the MetroStars at Giants Stadium.
“We anxiously await Arnold’s arrival in D.C.,” said United coach Bruce Arena. “We feel he could be a key player in solidifying our defense for the remaining games in the season.”
Los Angeles — Paul Caligiuri is still on the inactive list and did not dress for the match in San Jose. “The Galaxy is currently evaluating its alternatives,” according to team GM Danny Villanueva.
MetroStars — Defender Chris da Silva suffered a strained hamstring in the 14th minute of the Metros 3-1 win over New England and was replaced by Jeff Zaun in 14th minute…. Brazilian midfielder Guido made his MLS debut, but fellow countryman Joao Luis arrived Saturday morning and did not dress for the game.
Tampa Bay — Roy Lassiter left Tampa’s win over Kansas City in the 24th minute with a groin injury. The injury does not appear to be a major one, and Lassiter has joined the U.S. national team in Providence. He will likely rest most of the week, but should be ready to play for either the U.S. or the Mutiny on April 20…. Polish forward Jacek Ziober will undergo surgery for a torn ACL at end of the week. He suffered the injury while training in Poland as he waited for his work visa. Tampa Bay has announced that the team will retain Ziober’s rights for the 1998 season.