Posted on Thu, Jul. 24, 2008

Mixed achievements for FC Dallas’ stars

Previous Columns

Tobias Xavier Lopez

• Truly, this is a bad break for U.S. women’s team
• Euro’s done, but other fields bear watching
• Time to step it up
• Make note of a premier way to develop players
• FC Dallas players are attracting attention
• New FC Dallas coach isn't afraid of a little pain
• SOCCER INSIDER: FC Dallas' latest venture expands talent base
• SOCCER INSIDER: Jerry's palace might host soccer's royal ball
• SOCCER INSIDER: FC Dallas midfielder aims to reverse slide
• SOCCER INSIDER: Local women's team needs a home of its own
• SOCCER INSIDER: South American talent has kicked in for MLS

Special to the Star-Telegram/Brian Lawdermilk

FC Dallas players Kenny Cooper, left, and Juan Toja are headed for tonight’s MLS All-Star game. Special to the Star-Telegram/Brian Lawdermilk

Buy this photo

The manner in which FC Dallas’ two Major League Soccer All-Stars found their way onto tonight’s roster brings a stark contrast, which epitomizes their respective seasons.

Forward Kenny Cooper earned his spot through a combination of votes from fans, media, players and the coaches/general managers, who selected the squad to face English Premier League club West Ham United tonight.

Midfielder Juan Toja was a late addition by coach Steve Nicol after three All-Stars were unavailable because of their appointment to the U.S. Olympic soccer team.

Cooper is fourth in MLS with nine goals while midway through the season FC Dallas coach Schellas Hyndman is devising practice drills specifically to work on Toja’s fitness.

A look at the FC Dallas All-Stars:

Tale of the tape