Redemption!
This past Saturday was the big day - USA had to play Italy in order to remain in the World Cup and to redeem themselves after their horrific showing against the Czech Republic. A bunch of guys in my soccer club gathered at a local bar to cheer them on. At first we were all very quiet because we didn't know if they would play like we knew they could, but they did. USA really wanted to win this one and they played hard. Ultimately this game proved to be the most enjoyable one thus far in the World Cup because shots were flying and so were the penalties. Italy became a man down, then USA did as well and then USA lost another man. So, we played most of the game with 9 men on the field and still managed to prevent Italy from getting a second goal. I've never been so proud of a tie score. Well done USA!
posted by Hayden @ 4:06 AM
3 comments
3 Comments:
You're still proud of them even though they didn't score their own goal? (Gasp, how did Steve know that?!) True, though, that with 2 men out of play, they kept up defense and maintained a good game overall. If only the coach had pulled Pope off the field before he was pulled from the game. Aren't you supposed to switch out players who are being flagged? (sigh)
Now if only players could actually play the way they're used to up to now instead of having so many matches affected by cards...
I don't disagree with tightening up the reigns, but I don't know if doing so prior to the World Cup was the best time for it. Then again I'm not sure if the refs are internationally licensed, and if they're not then "standardized" refereeing pre-World Cup might be rather difficult. Regardless, I still wish there were a few less cards handed out.
A goal is a goal. I'm not picky when it comes to that. As for substituting carded players, that's always pretty tricky as you want to make sure you have subs for when someone gets hurt. Perhaps that's what Arena was thinking. I won't pretend to know what the best arrangement is when you have only 9 men on the field.
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