(Cary, NC – April 12, 2006) As the 2006 World Cup approaches fans are making travel plans, coaches are deciding final rosters, and players are doing all they can to make an impression so they may earn the chance to compete on the world’s largest stage. All over the world national teams are training and playing international friendlies to prepare for the upcoming tournament that starts in Germany in June. Last night, the US Men’s National Team took on Jamaica at SAS Park in Cary, NC. Atlanta Silverbacks’ forward, Fabian Dawkins played for the Jamaican side in the 1-1 tie in front of over 8,000 spectators. Dawkins, a member of the 2005 All-USL First Division Team, came into the game at right midfield for Jamaica in the 61st minute.
"I thought it was a good game, it was the first time I played against the US National Team. My coach and I both felt I played well, so hopefully I can build on that and play more with the team in the upcoming friendly against England," commented Dawkins.
Dawkins was impressive at both ends of the field using his speed to cause the US defense problems on more than one occasion and also tracking back to help his team defensively throughout the second half. In the 83rd minute, Dawkins broke inside from his position wide on the right, leaving two defenders in his wake, ripping a shot past a diving Tony Meola as the ball slid just past the outside of the left post. Two minutes later, Dawkins again threatened the US defense, this time he blazed past Frankie Hejduk before sending a low cross into the six-yard box that was scrambled out by a US defender. Despite both team’s efforts, the game ended in a tie with 11 shots by the US team and 9 shots by the Jamaican team.
