Aug. 22, 2004

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND--

Junior defender Chris Lancos:
The game today was ridiculous - absolutely incredible. It was far more intense than any professional sporting event in the United States. It's amazing to see how loyal the fans are and how much they admire the athletes. My favorite part was all the singing and cheers that every fan in the stadium knew without having to tell each other. I expected a crazy atmosphere, but I didn't expect it to be so nutty. It would have been better if they would have played a top-level team, but it was still just unreal.

This is my first time to England, but I've been to most of the other countries here in Europe. I think so far the trip has gone really well. I think the team is coming together real well - not just the whole team but the 11 that are going to be on the field are starting to come a little more clear. I think we got off to a pretty good start in that first game and hopefully we can improve on that tomorrow.

I am looking forward to getting a little more fit, getting our team a little more organized on the field and seeing who's going to step up and take some leadership roles, especially out of the young guys.