As much as I'd like to see us play prettier soccer, imo our real need is to develop more unsophisticated counterattacks. In the 2010 World Cup, we're never gonna be slicing up opponents; we're nowhere near that good. Success will result from pouncing when chances arise, a la Dempsey against Ghana. In contrast, against Guatemala, we were 10 on 10, and they were pushing forward ... we should've found more chances to put the game away.
Beyond that, I think it's worth remembering that in 2006 and 1998, we fell behind early in all three of our games. In 2002, we fell behind early against both Poland and Germany. At the World Cup, overcoming a deficit is really hard to do, so I think our current shutout streak is a real indication of progress. By solidifying in back, we give ourselves a fighting chance.
P
Beyond that, I think it's worth remembering that in 2006 and 1998, we fell behind early in all three of our games. In 2002, we fell behind early against both Poland and Germany. At the World Cup, overcoming a deficit is really hard to do, so I think our current shutout streak is a real indication of progress. By solidifying in back, we give ourselves a fighting chance.
P
----- Original Message ----
From: pakurilecz <pakurilecz@gmail.com>
To: NorthAmerican SoccerList <nas@americakicks.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 17, 2008 6:59:34 AM
Subject: [nas] U.S. offense needs to develop more sophistication
Dell'Apa:
This U.S. team is steamrolling foes right now. But wiping out Barbados and defeating Guatemala, Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago is not a good measure of the team's progress.![]()
From: pakurilecz <pakurilecz@gmail.com>
To: NorthAmerican SoccerList <nas@americakicks.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 17, 2008 6:59:34 AM
Subject: [nas] U.S. offense needs to develop more sophistication
Sent to you by pakurilecz via Google Reader:
via Soccer Blogs - latest posts by Sanford's Soccer Net on 9/17/08
Dell'Apa:
This U.S. team is steamrolling foes right now. But wiping out Barbados and defeating Guatemala, Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago is not a good measure of the team's progress.
Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to Soccer Blogs - latest posts using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites