It seems that Americans are keen to get amongst the big boys when it comes to soccer skills as can be seen from the embedded page futher down this post.
However, I have a sneaky feeling that Americans might well be lacking in the genetic skills department when it comes to actually understanding the finer points of the noble art of soccer, let alone having any natural aptitude for the game. This is a an excerpt from a book by Bill Bryson, a very popular American author who keeps us Brits amused for hours with his experiences of living in England.This is Bill's account of his first ever attempt to play soccer:
"I had watched football (soccer) on TV and I thought I had a fair idea of what was required, so when one of the team lofted a ball in my direction, I decided to flick it casually into the net with my head, the way I had seen Kevin Keegan do it. I thought it would be like heading a beachball - that there would be a gentle 'ponk' sound and that the ball ball would lightly leave my brow and drift in a pleasing arc into the net. But of course it was like heading a bowling ball. I have never felt anything so startlingly not like I expected it to feel. I walked around for 4 hours on wobbly legs with a big red circle and the word MITRE reverse imprinted on my forehead, and vowed never again to do anything so foolish and painful."
Here's the page:
So then, what do you reckon? Will The US ever be able to compete against the big boys in the World of Football?
England winning last night had no influence whatsoever as to my decision to write this post.
Englishman.