Hans Backe will now have time to concentrate on snow angels (Getty Images)
Two more MLS coaches were given pink slips this weekend. Though one was certainly more high profile than the other, in the end neither move is really a surprise as both clubs involved fell short of their expectations.
On Friday, a day after being eliminated from the MLS playoffs by DC United, New York Red Bulls announced that Hans Backe would no longer be their head coach. Backe's contract expires at the end of the year, and the club announced that it would not be renewed. Also getting the sack was Backe's assistant Jan Halvor Halvorsen. The club announced that Mike Petke will oversee the team on an interim basis.
It was largely considered to be MLS Cup or bust for the Red Bulls, and expectations were only raised when they acquired Australian International Tim Cahill from Everton near the end of the summer transfer window. In the end, it wasn't offense that cost New York, but horrible defense and spotty goalkeeping.
Also on Friday Chivas USA announced that Robin Fraser was out as their head man. Fraser was considered to be a top choice for a head coaching position in MLS after he was assistant to Jason Kreis in 2009 and 2010. RSL won the cup in 2009 and had a stellar defense year in 2010, setting a team record for fewest goals allowed.
Fraser never got the ball rolling at Chivas USA though, with only 15 wins over two seasons. The Goats tanked late this year, not winning in their last 14 games and getting destroyed by their opponents quite often. Assistant Greg Vanney. head scout Simon Elliott, and trainer Brian Lee were also sacked as Chivas continues to restructure their front office.
Backe and Fraser become the 2nd and 3rd MLS managers to lose their jobs in the wake of the 2012 season. They join Montreal's Jesse Marsch, who was sacked earlier last week.
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