Four Dynamo Members Give the U.S. Team a Local Twist

HOUSTON, TEXAS (February 6, 2008) Tonight's game between Mexico and the U.S. will have a local flavor in more ways than one, four ways, actually.

Four members of the Houston Dynamo will not just have a chance to be playing for their country; they may be playing in front of their home fans. Ricardo Clark, Brad Davis, Stuart Holden and Eddie Robinson are part of the Red, White, and Blue, as they represent defending back to back MLS Cup champion Houston Dynamo on the men's national team.

"It's a huge deal for the guys that play here in Houston. We are so proud to be a part of this team. It's an honor. My family and friends are going to be here and especially our (Dynamo) fans are going to be here," said Robinson. "Hopefully, we see as much orange as we do green and American jerseys. All the fans are really going to enjoy the passion that this group of professionals shows by playing one of its fiercest rivals."

It's no secret to the players that, despite being called a "friendly", any game between Mexico and the U.S. is anything but. The victor always gets bragging rights over the loser, and now that the gap has closed between them anything is possible.

"It has always been a rivalry playing against Mexico. Even when we played them at a youth level, every time we faced them the matches got heated and exciting," said Clark.

"In my experience playing against them in Phoenix and the Gold Cup, which was a bigger game, the atmosphere and energy through the whole game was unbelievable. I think it will be another heated match."

What makes the transition easier for the Dynamo teammates is that they are not doing it alone. Houston has the most players of any other club represented on the national team, which should make the move a little bit smoother.

"It is a great opportunity for all of us; I'm happy for those guys from our team to be part of it this with me," said Davis. "It's fun, since your good friends are out there on the field with you, because you know their tendencies. That is always good thing."

Since winning the second of back-to-back championships in October, there has not been a lot of rest for the Dynamo players.

"I haven't had a break. I went to China with the Olympic team and have been to a couple of training camps, but at the same time this is part of the job, and I'm enjoying it as much as I can," said Holden. "This is the best way to represent your country. To come out here and play Mexico in my home town is really a dream come true."