Not so brilliant

Well, so much for playing great in the group stage.

Russia outplayed The Netherlands by a large margin in a Euro 2008 quarterfinal Saturday. The 1-1 score at the end of regulation was only reflective of Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar's great play, because it may well have been 6-1 otherwise. Unfortunately for the Dutch, a two-goal deficit in the overtime period was rather reflective of Russia's dominance.

Despite the fact my squad lost, I was "well impressed" (as the announcers might say) with the play of the young Russians. In support of their Cool Uniform Props status, I'd probably be inclined to root for Turkey at this point, but this Russian squad is fun to watch too.

Oh, speaking of uniforms, Holland should have stuck with the white shorts and blue socks. All orange will always be appreciated here at Orange Whip, but the other look was on point.