Houston was a great host for the MLS All-Star game. The fan fest was cool, but it probably needed more stations with actual soccer skills events and probably two pickup game areas instead of just one. Also, they shut it down a little too early, leaving people hanging in line.
The pregame was good, with fireworks and cheerleaders, but the roof was closed, which was a mistake in my opinion. The smoke of the fireworks hung over the field and distracted from the action, particularly in the first half.
Reliant Stadium was at near capacity and the fans were treated to 7 goals. The biggest complaint is probably the starting lineup and personnel moves made by MLS All-Star coach Bruce Arena, who appeared to protect his Galaxy players by limiting their playing time. For Landon Donovan not to start the All-Star game was a crime, and fans clamored constantly for his presence. He finally came in with 20 minutes to go. The MLS XI that had previously been named was not the 11 who stepped onto the playing field, another unsatisfactory decision.
Despite these flaws, the game was, overall, an enjoyable affair. Houston is rapidly becoming one of the premier U.S. destinations for international soccer.