[Locke]

We knew about the Russians, they're undergoing a revolution. Well...maybe just a change. Whatever it is, they're bad. The best players that they have are well past their best before date and the best players in their system arent there.

The Ukraine is pretty much as advertised. They should have going along a similar strategy as Poland, dont forget when Poland and Ukraine hosted this tournament they were the two worst teams in it, so improvements have been made.

They should have done better against Ireland but in fairness, the Irish played their game plan to perfection. I'd wager that the Ukrainians had better overall talent but poorer work-ethic and discipline and when the margins are as thin as they are that counts for a lot.

The Poles will likely be in trouble when the rubber hits the road, but in all fairness I havent really been impressed with any team in this tournament. I'd say the best game I've seen was Italy/Belgium and Italy was the best team I've seen play and most of that is credit to excellent tactics and disciplined adherence to the game plan as well as a custom-made back-line.