SoccerCanadian women must not dwell on defeat

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Despite another loss to the U.S., the Canadian women's team can't lose its confidence.

It had to happen sooner or later. There is no surprise it occurred when it did. Canada's impressive unbeaten run came to a predictable end against the old enemy in China.
 
Let's face facts here. Canada hasn't beaten the United States for over ten years. The Americans have virtually dominated top spot in FIFA's Women's World rankings since their inception in 2003. In the women's game their genuine challengers are few and far between.
 
For all the progress made in recent times under the leadership of Carolina Morace, Canada is evidently still a step off the pace. It's one thing to become CONCACAF champions without having to face the U.S. - it's quite another to reach the next level.
 
It is fair to say Canada is striding in the right direction. Morace's management and coaching revolution has been embraced by this country's elite. I have yet to speak to one of her players who isn't enthusiastic about the Italian's knowledge and vision.
 
Perhaps they would say that, wouldn't they? Frankly, I wouldn't expect anything different. Six months before the Women's World Cup, who is going to risk her seat on the plane to Germany by telling me Morace's methods stink and all the players despise her?
 
My sense, however, is that they don't. My inkling is that these players enjoy working in this environment for a simple reason. They understand they are improving individually and as a team. It is not an overnight success story but progress is being made.
 
So why did Canada come off second best against Team USA at the Four Nations tournament Sunday for the umpteenth time? Surely there will be few better chances to record a rare victory against these familiar foes. Canada was riding a record 11 game unbeaten streak while the Americans were missing their most prolific striker.
 
I hope, for Canada's sake, it is not a mental block. It is important this seemingly impossible task has not become an obsession. While passion is part of the game, the Canadians must remain focused and trust their talent as well as the game plan.
 
Morace has a duty to preach the positives. A narrow loss to the top nation in women's soccer in no disgrace. On another day the talismanic Christine Sinclair would have scored in the dying seconds to salvage a draw. Goalkeepers are there for a reason.
 
The importance of belief cannot be overstated. When the Canadians can stand toe to toe with their American counterparts in the tunnel and believe they can win is the day the frustration will end. The statistics tell us the gap is narrowing.
 
Maybe in Germany this summer it will finally be closed. Mental toughness will ultimately separate the contenders from those present merely to make up the numbers. Underdogs will always have their day but, in the final analysis, will always meet their match. 
 
Hoilett facing big decision
 
While Morace continues to fine-tune her squad and its tactics, her male counterpart is trying to assemble a team that can be competitive on a consistent basis. Stephen Hart will soon name his roster for next month's friendly international in Greece.
 
The squad should include a new name - one to warm the hearts of Canadian soccer fans. David "Junior" Hoilett needs to make a decision and answer the call of his country. Soon he will have to make a statement of intent.
 
The 20 year old from Brampton, Ontario has been catching the eye for a while. He announced his arrival in emphatic style with a laser like strike for Blackburn against West Bromwich Albion on the weekend - his first goal in the English Premier League.
 
Hart has already asked Hoilett about his availability. So far he's hit a brick wall. Hoilett has resisted the approaches on the basis he first wanted to establish himself as a fully-fledged professional. Suffice to say he's well on his way.
 
Sam Allardyce gave him a two and a half year contract early last year and despite Big Sam's inexplicable departure, new manager Steve Kean clearly likes what he has inherited. Hoilett has started every Rovers' game since the turn of the year.
 
Hoilett, though, has a problem - not of his making. He is also being courted by Jamaica, for whom he qualifies through his parents. The international tug of war will only intensify following his latest performance. The noises in his head will only grow louder.
 
Success has its consequences. It gets you noticed and Hoilett's ability has been duly noted. While Canada prepares to face Greece, Jamaica has also qualified for this summer's Gold Cup. Only Hoilett knows which nation has the stronger pull. 
 
Hart can't wait forever. He needs to know whether or not he's planning with Hoilett for the next cycle of World Cup qualifying, and the one after that. If Canada wants him the CSA must pull out all the stops. And Hoilett must, once and for all, nail his colours to the mast.

Follow Nigel Reed on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/#!/Nigel_Reed

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