USA/Algeria: A view from the stands
US fans celebrate the team’s historic victory over Algeria, which gave them the Group C crown and advanced them to the Round of 16 in the 2010 World Cup. Photo: Jay Hipps, centerlinesoccer.com PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA — Two days after attending the US national team’s magnificent 1-0 win over Algeria, I’m still trying to come to terms with everything I experienced at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Never before has a match left me so emotionally exhausted, and that... Read More
Pride break down Breakers for first Pioneer win
FC Gold Pride opened up their new stadium on the campus of CSU East Bay with a 1-0 victory over the Boston Breakers courtesy of a Kelley O’Hara first half goal. Photo: Kelley L. Cox, isiphotos.com In the true home opener for the Gold Pride at Pioneer Stadium on the campus of Cal State University-East Bay in Hayward, the lone West Coast WPS team was able to defeat the WPS’ eastern most team, the Boston Breakers, 1-0, to remain unbeaten — overall, including a... Read More
A South African takes on the vuvuzela
“They need to get rid of the vuvuzelas — they are ruining the World Cup.” The words surprised me, coming as they did from my cab driver, a proud supporter of Bafana Bafana named Treasure. He wasn’t interested in cultural colonialism, foreigners miffed at the buzzing that accompanies their television broadcasts, or a preference for singing over the blowing of horns. He wanted to see better matches. “The players can’t hear each other — it makes... Read More
Earthquakes training report — and the latest on Sam Cronin to San Jose
Since I’m already on a daily 6 hour diet of soccer since the World Cup began, what do I do with my precious little spare time? Why, I make a visit to the Nutrilite Training Facility to take in some San Jose Earthquakes training, of course. Taking advantage of the time off before MLS resumes play, the Quakes are in the midst of a “second pre-season” ahead of their match at Real Salt Lake next Friday. Read More Read More
Dear England —
I think it’s time we talked. I’m not saying this to wind you up or to rub your noses in yesterday’s result. I like you guys; actually, I think most soccer supporters here in America look up to you, in a way. That whole “special relationship” our governments have? I think it extends to football, too. But I have to say this: England, get over yourselves. Read More Read More