U.S. opens World Cup with 2-2 tie
On Sept. 11 we played North Korea for our first game of the World Cup Tournament.
The game, a demonstration of two outstanding teams battling for 90 minutes, resulted in a 2-2 tie. North Korea is not only an exceptional team, but possibly the best the U.S. has encountered during my three years on this team. They are skilled, very fast, and tactically well-coached.
We did not play our best and unfortunately gave up two goals in an 11-minute period, when we were minus a player. During that time Abby Wambach, a crucial force for our team, was getting some quick sutures to a head laceration. We anxiously awaited her return to the game. Heather O'Reilly scored the tying goal in the 70th minute, as Hope Solo (our goalkeeper) made an acrobatic save in the final minutes to preserve a 2-2 score. As a result of the game intensity, my red, white, and blue nail polish is completely chewed off!
On a lighter note, several days ago I was able to pet a teenage Panda Bear while sitting next to this lovely creature! We also visited a Panda bear nursery, and I was in awe viewing 2-month-old Pandas. The Panda visit is one of the neatest ventures I have ever experienced.
I had a ride in a Ric Shaw -- a bike that pulls the cart in which one sits. I do not recommend such an adventure, however. I knew I had made a poor choice as we dodged cars while driving against rapidly moving traffic.
Our team received a letter from President George W. Bush. Regardless of one's political opinions, it is cool to open a letter from the President of the United States.
Our friends and family members began to arrive this week. Personally, I am excited to see my Mom, two of my brothers, and a 7-year-old niece and nephew in a few days.
Being the youngest of eight children and having a total of 14 nieces and nephews, I miss my family when I am away for an extended period.
On Sept. 14 we face our next game in the "Group of Death!" This time, Sweden is our challenge. They too had a 1-1 draw against Nigeria, so the group is "up for grabs!"
Despite the criticism of the U.S. 2-2 tie, we have moved on and now focus on playing another very good team. Continue your great support! Wish us well! And Go U.S.A.!!