In case you don't know, the US World Cup team lost to Ghana today, and we've been eliminated from the tournament. But is it all Landon Donovan's fault? I realize his play in both games is attracting a lot of criticism, and some of that's understandable. But it seems a bit cruel that a picture of a shirtless, defeated Donovan bending forward at a 90 degree angle (worn out and saddened by the loss) is currently dominating the homepages of both The Washington Post and The New York Times. In terms of a sports news photo it says a lot, and kudos to the photographer. It's a successful and striking piece of work. But the breadth of the photo's posting ... I mean the image really does seems to suggest that Donovan's to blame, and soccer is a team sport.
Posted by armand at June 22, 2006 02:49 PM | TrackBack | Posted to SportsDonovan isn't to blame (let's lay that squarely on Arena, eh?), but he has been US soccer's golden boy since 2002. When you're a cover boy, fairly or not, you shoulder a large burden for the success of the team. He did not play well leading up to the WC--he has gone, what, 15 games without a goal?
That said, there is plenty of blame to go around the US national team right now.
Posted by: bmj at June 22, 2006 04:23 PM | PERMALINKThe most ironic (and funny) thing, is that the U.S. coach was quoted as saying "Australia is only there to make up the numbers!!! HA!! http://www.coventrycity-mad.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=286085
Posted by: yiddo of OZ at June 22, 2006 06:07 PM | PERMALINKGrant Wahl does a good job explaining the US loss. Donovan was just never in the tournament, as least as the offensive threat he is touted to be. The good news is, he is only 24, and likely has his best years in front of him.
Posted by: bmj at June 22, 2006 07:27 PM | PERMALINK