Let me start by saying cheers to a couple of groups that truly deserve it. The Texian Army/El Battalon and the Screaming Eagles up in DC. Last night I realized how far this game has come and how dedicated the MLS fans are when the Texas AM Stadium filled up and black and red showed up in big numbers at RFK. Needless to say it is extremely important to have a “home field” atmosphere while competing in international games and both teams were provided that luxury last night.
I feel that there is no true favorite going into the semi-finals. Keep in mind that we have only been training for about a month. While the advantage goes to Chivas and Pachuca due to the fact that they have been playing competitive matches for a quite awhile, I think our character and talent level here in the MLS makes us very dangerous teams to play we are full of tenacious and extremely skilled players that desire big games and big wins.
Both teams representing MLS are very structured and disciplined sides that are tough to break down as well. Look for entertaining and emotional games in the weeks to come.
If you have any questions about the games or the league feel free to fire them at me.
Craig
Hello Craig!
First off, congrats on beating Pachuca. You guys looked pretty sharp for being only a month into pre-season. Great win. I had so much fun screaming and chanting you guys on. I hope that when you get your stadium, the nets are as close to the fans as in ATM cause I think we really psyched out PFC\’s GK. He kept on playing so far forward and would look at us over his shoulder every once in a while
So, now onto Pachuca. What are you guys going to do different to beat them? This is a top-notch team. They won the Sudamerica last year, doin\’ pretty good this year in the League. Also, how excited are you to be playing at least 2 of the best Mexican teams (Pachuca and Club America in the SuperLiga) this year? Imagine if we get Chivas in the final and you guys beat them too. Woh.
No matter what happens, we\’ll be cheering you guys on. Good luck in a couple of weeks.
Comment by el naranja — March 5, 2007 @ 12:28 pm
Craig,
Great post and great win on Thursday. I was at the DC game and 9,000 people showed up mid-week in a downpour for a game we were assured of winning. It was a great scene.
On to Pachuca: How to you prepare for the speed and unpredictability of Chitiva and Alvarez? In last year\’s Sudamericana, there wasn\’t one player who could catch Alvarez once he got into space, and defenders struggled to get the ball off Chitiva\’s feet. Also, Gimenez was very dangerous. Can you do anything special on defense to prepare for their attack? Thanks.
Comment by Nick — March 5, 2007 @ 12:43 pm