I don't have a problem with resting players if rest is a factor (frequent games, preparing for playoffs). However, when it is only a matter of going through the motions, the crowd should leave. Why bother? At the professional level of any sport, if you're not trying, you're not justifying your pay or the patron's ticket prices.
Should Tiger take it easy and not embarass the rest of the field? Should Michael Shumacher slow down for the sake of anyone's feelings? Has Alan Shearer ever missed a penalty on purpose?
Dare to compare youth soccer to academics. Should the smartest kids play dumb and not try to get high marks out of respect to those in the class who resent being "shown up" by those who work/study hard? Do we applaud the person who plays the fool?
Half an effort may as well be no effort.
Glenn
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