Another steller soccer showdown

Terry called this one in as he headed home from FedEx after the DC United-Real Madrid match. He was one of 72,368 who braved heat and humidity (the dreaded double H were in the mid-nineties today) to see the local MLS side take on the Greatest Team Money Can Buy. (Real Madrid recently stunned the soccer world by applying New York Yankee methods to roster development. Several of their $375 million acquistions were unveiled today.)

The high ticket talent eventually prevailed 3-0, but United kept them contained for a good portion of the game, thrilling the hometown fans.

Terry remarked that once again, enthusiasm and attendance showed how supportive Maryland and the Metropolitan region are for soccer. United's fan clubs demonstrated the spirit the franchise is known for with singing, flag waving and drum beating. It was an impressive display for the US bid executives who returned to the region for the FedEx match after attending the friendly two weeks ago at M&T.

We won't know for a few weeks if Maryland makes the cut for consideration in the US bid to host the World Cup, but there is no doubt a strong base of support exists in our state.