He takes a lickin', and he keeps on kickin'. I was screaming at the TV when he took his 3rd elbow to the jaw, and the referee staring right at the play, and did nothing. I know Freddy must get tougher, and there's a natural progression into men's soccer on that issue, but come on...some of these no-calls seem to be the referee's determination to make him grow up. I counted two times in 5 minutes that players took a step out of their way to hit him. Even Bretos mentioned it after he subbed out. Horrible. And by the way, is he developing a weak left ankle? It seems to turn over rather easily these days. That's why I had to quit playing outdoor- too many eversions on my left ankle. It's never been the same. E Diddy
I agree that Freddy got handled during that game (and what about Reis taking out Cerritos in minute 1), but in general I've noticed Adu getting the benefit of the doubt in many situations. He also had one outrageous embarrassing dive against the Revs. I've heard some argue that refs, subconciously at least, seem to see physical play towards him as a foul. Freddy does seem very prone to the "run into the defender" type confrontation. On balance, as crap as most MLS refs are, I think he's been treated fair by the officials.
Adu needs to sit and rehab his left ankle, he's too young to have any degenerate issues. He hasn't had a time to rest since the U-17 WC. I think a couple of weeks ago in July would be ok, that's what SAF does to his 19 year old first teamers to rest them...but Adu's ankle needs to ice or rest for a while. It doesn't seem to serious but as an Attacking Midfielder/Forward..he'll get ankle swipes all of his career so its better for him to strengthen that ankle before next season.