Orlando, Fla. -- FC Dallas returned to training today at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla. following their 1-0 win against the Orlando City Lions last night. The team now faces the Houston Dynamo tomorrow for the championship match of the Walt Disney Pro Soccer Classic. That match is set to begin at 7 p.m. CT (live stream available by visiting FCDallas.com).
Sidelined
Zach Loyd joined Ricardo Villar and Ugo Ihemelu in a pre-practice walk around the field. Loyd suffered a strained right quad during last night's match to become the latest FC Dallas center back to pick up an injury during the 2011 preseason. Ihemelu and Villar began jogging around the field after a few minutes, while Loyd continued to walk. George John, who had been on the sidelines for the entirety of Dallas' spring training trip to Orlando, joined the team for a half training session before returning to the sidelines to work with Villar. MLS SuperDraft selection Charlie Campbell also returned for his first full day of training in Orlando.
Departures
Brazilian midfielder Bruno Martins was released from camp yesterday.
Alexis Pradie has elected to pursue further education and has left camp.
Morning Session
The morning training session began with a long warm-up session conducted by Michael Johnson Performance Center's Daniel Torres. Following 30 minutes of stretching and preparation, last night's starters (minus Zach Loyd), moved to the corner of the field to play a light-spirited game. Players in the middle of the circle took turns knocking a ball to players on the outside of the circle in the air. Moving around the circle, the team tried to keep the ball in the air as long as possible.
In the center of the field, the rest of the team ran through a quick but precise passing drill before setting up for the "Chelsea drill," which is a combination passing drill with crossing and finishing aspects. Andrew Jacobson finished off two nice half-volley chances, Roberto Lopes and Campbell hooked up for a solid finish at the back post and Ruben Luna finished the overwhelming majority of the shots he had on goal.
Evening Session
The evening session on Friday will focus on extra work for the reserves. First team members will have the evening off to prepare for Saturday night's 7 p.m. CT Disney Classic championship game vs. the Houston Dynamo, which will be streamed live on ESPN3.com with color commentary provided by FCD broadcaster Bobby Rhine. You can find the link to the live broadcast by visiting FCDallas.com on Saturday.
