The entire group traveled to the beautiful town of Tours today. Set on the picturesque Loire river the old town was truly unique in postcard sort of way. The players moved around in their groups purchasing gifts, grabbing some dejuener of baguettes et fromage and generally taking in the sites and sounds of France in the springtime.
After a couple of hours in town the boys departed for the training centre of the professional team of FC Tours. They were given the customary change rooms and assigned field # 10 on this sprawling locale where young players train to become pros.
[97s get ready]
Both teams, after their soccer lessons from the night before, made a few individual and tactical adjustments in order to continue their learning curve. The '98's, starting in a new formation and with some players in different positions, played their hosts to a 0-0 draw. Individually the French were more technical but the US team created more chances and should have have come away with the victory. Brendan Clegg hit the bar on a powerful free kick and Reece Cooke was denied on an point blank opportunity.
The '97's also played a strong FC Tours squad and they too, came away with a point in a 1-1 draw. Thomas, in goal, was outstanding as he thwarted attack after attack. As Magill finished his opportunity in the 59th minute to secure the result.
After the match, a stop at a local pizzeria, to replenish the calories and eat everything in site was the order of the day. Afterwards, the team bus, carrying it's tired troops, made it's way through the dark but peaceful French countryside and back to their final night at La Grande Meteor Maison.
On to Paris.
Day 6
After the early alarm, and a merci beau coup and aurevoir to Antoine and the staff, the bus was loaded and the 2nd leg of the journey began. 25 minutes outside of Ambroise the bus made a slight detour and the magnificent chateau of Chambord unveiled itself before our eyes. A 45 minute stop was utilized to see this 425 room, 227 fireplace, Louis the XIV "hunting lodge." After photos, it was back to the bus and on to Paris.
On to Paris.
Day 6
After the early alarm, and a merci beau coup and aurevoir to Antoine and the staff, the bus was loaded and the 2nd leg of the journey began. 25 minutes outside of Ambroise the bus made a slight detour and the magnificent chateau of Chambord unveiled itself before our eyes. A 45 minute stop was utilized to see this 425 room, 227 fireplace, Louis the XIV "hunting lodge." After photos, it was back to the bus and on to Paris.
Upon arriving at the Best Western in Saint Maurice the players dropped their bags, boarded the bus and were taken to the heart of Paris. They had the chance to see the world famous cathedral of Notre Dame as well as the Louvre. After dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe-Paris, the players boarded the Metro (subway) and made their way back home for a wanted sleep in the City of Light.
[We have arrived in Paris]
Tomorrow the next set of matches.
