1.   But in defense of Columbus, the Crew was without U.S. national team members McBride, Brian Maisonneuve, Thomas Dolley and goalkeeper Juergen Sommer.

2.   Miroslav Zayonc, the national team coach, said the success of Niccum and McClain is unprecedented.

3.   He played or the Italian national team and coached on three continents.

4.   Malaysia sent a good mix of juniors and seniors for a four-match Test series with New Zealand, where the national team lost three and drew one.

5.   Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti on Sunday fired a warning shot to the Brazilian national team over their handling of star striker Ronaldo.

6.   -- The British government, furious at the dismal medal performance of the national team at the Atlanta Games, has demanded an explanation from the British Olympic association.