For The Soccer Junkies

Time for a little retrospection. I am trying to be happy with the US results, knowing that two weeks ago I would be happy knowing our boys would reach the knockout round. I’m still trying to understand the two different teams we saw throughout this tournament as well though – whether dominating a strong physical side during the 2nd half of the Ghana match, or the clueless ineffectual side that gave up early goals. I’ve been a fan of Coach Bradley for many years, from 1998 when he took the Chicago Fire to the double in their first year of existence. I’ll leave the analysis of his work in this World Cup to others. Links below.

In the meantime, there were several things I loved.

Bill Griffiths and his staff at Farmer’s Gastropub for one. Finally a restaurant/pub that embraced the futbol community and offered us a fantastic environment for enjoying the game. He’ll continue this efforts throughout the tournament (there were 3 dozen here for England vs Germany this morning). Come out for a game or enjoy the wonderful menus they create from locally grown products. It really is a treat and the outdoor patio offers a nice, shaded environment in the evenings.

If you made it to Farmers, or didn’t but appreciate what Bill helped create, please consider visiting soon. Be certain to let him know that you how you feel. We owe him our support.

The community was wonderful. Every day the crowds grew larger as the word got out about the great environment Farmer’s Gastropub has fostered. For the folks who came out to share in that spirit, but were less savvy about the soccer, the opportunity to discover our game was great. A few comments culled from my Twitter feed during the event include:

* It feels like we are in a bigger city, or a different country, or both.
* Hosting a pretty kickass party @farmerspub if you aren’t here you are missing out!
* okay i’m watching it, too. and i’ll admit that soccer does a couple of things right: narrative tension and patriotic frenzy. #USA

About that patriotic frenzy, check out the National Anthem prior to the game

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwdrHUI2SZU]

OK, now a sampling of what’s available on the internet

Soccer America with How Ghana ended the Americans’ march

Yahoo Sports kicks in with USA: Great story, just a good team

Washington Post Soccer Insider offers Bob Bradley reflects on World Cup, U.S. future

And finally, with a look at the bigger picture is Sam Mellinger of the KC Star who looks at One Saturday in Kansas City shows where soccer stands in America

What stories ave you seen that you like? What about Bradley and the team, what are your thoughts?dubai escorts independent