AUCKLAND – LA Galaxy coach Bruce Arena says his team will be treating the match against the Oceania All Stars as if it were a Major League Soccer (MLS) game.
“We certainly don’t view this trip as going to a country that plays rugby. We’re well aware of the fact that New Zealand has some good football players, and it’s going to be a very competitive match.”
He says even though the side is in their off season, preparation for the exhibition match has been strong.
Arena says the match gives the LA Galaxy a chance to improve and gives coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate players in preparation for next year.
“Any time you compete in another country it’s an added challenge and I think it can turn out to be a real good experience for us, and a game that can help the rebuilding process for our team in 2009.”
He says the LA Galaxy is excited about the upcoming tour.
“I’m certain it’s going to be a good entertaining game for the fans.”
The LA Galaxy including David Beckham will take on the Oceania All Stars in ‘The Beautiful Game’ at Mt Smart Stadium on 6 December.
Tickets are available from www.ticketek.co.nz or 0800 TICKETEK.
For audio and video files of this interview with LA Galaxy coach Bruce Arena, please contact Jo Davidson.
See also: http://davidbeckham.com/blog.php
For further information please go to www.mtsmartstadium.co.nz or contact:
Jo Davidson
ARC Mt Smart Stadium Communications
09 360 2000 x 2071
021 265 0233
Gordon Glen Watson
OFC Media and Communications
+64 (0)21-994-520