After two days in Orlando the Black & Gold have settled nicely into the final phase of 2014 preseason training camp. Temperatures in the mid-70s have provided a shock to the systems of players and staff members who were dealing with Ohio’s winter chill only a handful of days ago, but so far Crew boss Gregg Berhalter is happy with his side’s effort this week.
“It’s been good.The first day obviously the guys needed to get back into the rhythm of playing on a grass field and playing in warm conditions. It’s been a little adjustment, but the team has responded with two great sessions and a good effort and an overall high level of training,” commented Berhalter.
MORE FROM BERHALTER: TFC PREVIEW
With only 18 days between the Crew and its 2014 MLS opener at RFK Stadium against D.C. United, Berhalter acknowledges the importance of Orlando camp for team cohesion and finalizing his first-choice lineup.
Said the Crew boss, “We see this camp as a crucial step toward the start of the season. We’re looking to gain match fitness and to get the group together and finalize the starting eleven. It’s a good group of guys – and we’re going to need experience to bind us together – but we’re starting to roll-up our sleeves and I think as we build on these experiences we’re going to continue to gel.”
With four preseason matches in Orlando over the next two weeks, the Black & Gold will have ample opportunity to solidify their regular-season preparations, beginning with Toronto FC tomorrow at the Disney Pro Soccer Classic (1:00 p.m. ET).
PHOTOS FROM ORLANDO CAMP
