On Thursday evening, D.C. United's technical staff and players made their way to the AT&T Center to see the San Antonio Spurs take on the Indiana Pacers. Of special interest to three of United's newest acquisitions - Argentines Marcelo Gallardo, Franco Niell and Gonzalo Peralta - was seeing their fellow countrymen, Manu Ginobli and Fabricio Oberto. The two Spurs did not disappoint, leading their team to a 108-97 win over the visiting Pacers. Ginobli was the "man of the match" churning out a game-best 28 points, as Oberto chipped in with six points on 3-of-3 shooting.
Following the match, Gallardo, Niell and Peralta were ushered down into the lower levels of the AT&T Center to meet Ginobli and Oberto for a quick meeting before the two had to head off for Denver. The group chatted about Argentina, life in the states and some of the things D.C. has to offer, among other things before the basketball contingent had to head out to catch their flight. On the way out, the three were able to snag a quick photo with two-time NBA MVP Tim Duncan.
Tranquilo Thursday
Following two games on Wednesday that saw every member of United participate in a full-sided scrimmage, Head Coach Tom Soehn gave the team a much-needed day off on Thursday. Most players found their way to the hotel gym for a quick workout, while many explored San Antonio (despite the gloomy weather), caught up on sleep or spent time with teammates.
Soccer Festival continues
The Texas Pro Soccer Festival continues on Friday, as United faces Toronto FC at Steele High School in Cibolo, TX. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. local time and is the first of two games on the evening, as the Houston Dynamo will face Chivas USA at 8:30 p.m. local time. United is coming off an opening 2-1 win over Chivas Wednesday evening with goals from Quavas Kirk and trialist Cezar Hermenegildo.
