Two Quotes

Quote: "The worst part is the finality of it," Donovan said [about the end of USA's run in the World Cup]. "Even during the game, you don't get the sense, 'This is it.' Then the whistle blows and it's over."

That summarizes a very big problem with the US at World Cup 2006: the US players didn’t get a sense of urgency, even during their final game. Their lethargic play proved it. Lethargy, unfortunately, was only one of the problems; but it should be the easiest to cure.

Quote from Michelle Lissel of Fox Sports "He [Bruce Arena] said he did regret not playing Ching in the last game. Said they could have used a good strong presence in front of goal.

That may be of little consolation to Ching, but it's a good testament of the esteem that knowledgeable people hold for the Dynamo striker. I would have loved to see him on the world's grandest stage.

Ching is scheduled to rejoin Dynamo in Los Angeles this weekend for the team's upcoming games against the Galaxy and Chivas USA. Ching probably won't play versus the Lost Angels, but "will probably" (according to the Dynamo website) play against Chivas USA on the following Wednesday. That would be his first game in a Dynamo uniform since May 6. He has only played in two matches, both friendlies, since that time (the full 90 versus Venezuela where he scored, and in the closing minutes versus Latvia). Still, the training on the MNT was intense, so he should be in good shape and provide a needed boost to the Dynamo offense.

The game versus the Galaxy has the sub-plot of being the first matchup between Coach Kinnear and his mentor, Frank Yallop, who became the Galaxy coach just after they lost to the Dynamo earlier this month.

I doubt Donovan will play this weekend against us, but if he does I certainly hope he's not "comfortable." He says he plays best when "comfortable" which is why he returned to the MLS. I guess he was uncomfortable in Germany this past month.