Philadelphia Union coach Peter Nowak has hit back at those who criticised his team's style of play in their first official league outing last week. The Union went down to the Seattle Sounders 2-0 at Qwest Field but it was the way they went about it that had people talking with six yellow cards being shown and plenty of rough and tumble.
But Nowak wasn't about to back away from his game plan, saying if things are too physical then perhaps those complaining should think about another pastime.
"If you want to avoid contact, I would suggest badminton or curling or chess maybe," Nowak said. "That's how we play the game. This is a man's game. If you want to compete, let's compete.
"That's who we're going to be. If the other team doesn't like the way we play, get used to it because we're going to play every single game like that - regardless of the cards, regardless of the suspension. Get used to it.
"That's how we're going to play every single game, starting March 25 and finishing Oct. 22, or Nov. 22, I hope, when we play MLS Cup. That's how we're going to be. We will not change and back off any from the way we play a bit.
"That's what the public needs to know and the other team, as well."