The Earthquakes took the training field on a sunny Tuesday afternoon without several familiar faces, including Chris Wondolowski, David Bingham, Anibal Godoy, Alberto Quintero, Simon Dawkins and Fatai Alashe, who are all away on international duty. Nonetheless, head coach Dominic Kinnear put the team through their paces ahead of Saturday’s clash (pun intended) with D.C. United.
On-Field Highlight
Playing a small-sided game utilizing only a quarter of the full pitch, a few big saves and thunderous goals highlighted the action. However, the top play of the day was when Matias Perez Garcia played a waist-high cross in front of goal and Quincy Amarikwa volleyed the ball just inside the near post, evading a save attempt by goalkeeper Andrew Tarbell.
Off-Field Highlight
Many Quakes players have plans to watch their teammates compete with the United States later today. Wondolowski, Bingham and the U.S. take on Guatemala at 4 p.m. (ESPN2) and Alashe and the U.S. U-23s take on the Colombia U-23s at 6:30 p.m. (ESPN2).
Q&A with defender Kip Colvey
SJEarthquakes.com:How do you feel after the bye weekend?
Kip Colvey: “The bye week is good for everyone. We get a weekend off from playing, so time to recover and make the legs feel fresh again. Everyone feels good going into Saturday.”
SJEQ: How has training been without many of the guys around?
KC: “It’s been the same level for the most part. We’re a bit short on numbers with the international guys gone, but the level’s been high and we’re working hard.”
SJEQ:With two starts under your belt now, are you more confident and comfortable?
KC: “Definitely. Each week I feel a little bit more confident in myself and how I’m able to play and compete with the guys. Obviously getting minutes helps with that. I’m sure as the season goes on, I’ll keep progressing.”
SJEQ: Are you planning to watch the two United States matches this evening?
KC: “Of course. Anytime our teammates are playing in other games, we’re always supporting them. So I’ll be watching.”
