Major League Soccer in Austin: Get a first look at the new “Houston 1836” MLS team, playing Real Salt Lake in the inaugural MLS Austin Cup 2006, hosted by Austin United Capitals Soccer Club. It’s 6pm, Saturday, Feb. 25 at Round Rock ISD Athletic Complex. Tickets ($15, or $40 for the VIP package: parking, program, and a post-game party with both teams) are at all Pinky’s Wireless stores or online at www.gottix.com.

Houston 1836, we hardly knew ye: a Houston TV station reported last week that the new MLS franchise has decided to change the name of the team, just recently unveiled with much fanfare. Seems a good portion of the expected Hispanic fan base didn’t appreciate the historical connotations. Who knew? Team officials would not comment but did promise a “major announcement within the next week.”

Lots of news from Europe this week: Man U out of the FA Cup, Chelsea and Real Madrid both lose at home in the Champions League, Italy skipper Totti breaks ankle … see “Soccer Watch Online” for scores and details.

This article appears in February 24 • 2006.

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