[3rd Degree]

Practice Observations: Burning Down the House
Friday, August 21, 2009, 9:30 AM, Dr. Pink Field
By: Buzz Carrick
http://www.3rddegree.net/

What a glorious day for some soccer. It’s about 70 in the morning when I left and it hits the low 90s by the end of training. FCD has moved to the Dr Pink turf field right next to the adidas training field to prep for New York. Red Bull Arena is coming along, so perhaps this is the last time at the Meadowlands for FCD. Training got started a little late, so perhaps there was some video or chalk board work this AM.

[ttujosh]

Originally Posted by 3rd Degree

[B]That was the second time this week Hyndman’s told the story about 45% of the team being changed but only two starters, till now, being changed. The new guys make it four, maybe five.

I disagree, I think this is yet another example of SH making excuses for the clubs shitty play and SH deflecting any blame. He has had plenty of time to move guys that he doesn't want on to other places if he wants. And his count is even bullshit. HE brought in Cunningham, DVB, Ferreira, Harris, Benitez, and Davies. That's 6 of 11 projected starters. Yes two of those just showed up recently, but really whose fault is that?

And yes MLS is an athletic league, but it's also a very physical league. Anyone who has watched the league knows this and also would know that this teams weakness is they play soft far too often, in particular in the back. I give him credit here, as I think if John could ever stay healthy, he provides that physical player in the back and I think Davies doesn't show it much but does have a bit of bite to his game when needed. Moor doesn't and Benitez certainly doesnt but if those guys are expected to get forward, I think you take the athleticism rather than hardass.