FCD's Rhine catches up with Pearce in Bratislava

Defender having great experience with U.S. national team in Europe

FC Dallas Media Relations

Heath Pearce says playing with FC Dallas helped him find his passion for the game again. (Getty)

FC Dallas midfielder Dax McCarty earned his first national team cap Saturday, subbing in for Clint Dempsey during the 72nd minute of the U.S. friendly with Slovakia at Tehelné Pole, Bratislava.

In the 82nd minute, McCarty was joined by FC Dallas teammate and 2009 MLS Golden Boot winner Jeff Cunningham who replaced Jozy Altidore. The substitution marked Cunningham's first national team appearance since Sept. 7, 2005.

Cunningham drew a foul in the 89th minute just outside the box, giving the U.S. a late opportunity. However the squad was unable to convert on Jonathan Bornstein's low cross off the kick. Despite controlling the ball for much of the game, the U.S. never managed to answer Slovakia's first-half goal, falling 1-0 to the host squad.

After the game, Bobby Rhine caught up with defender Heath Pearce to chat about the FC Dallas trio and their trip to Bratislava with the U.S. squad.

BR: How has playing with FC Dallas helped prepare you for this opportunity with the U.S. team?

HP: I think coming back to the MLS has really helped me find my passion for the game again and focus on getting better each day and playing games each weekend. The coaching staff has pushed me since day one to be a leader and to get better each day.

BR: What are the biggest adjustments from MLS to International play?

HP: The biggest thing you notice whenever you move from club ball to International ball is the tempo. The game happens a lot faster. You are forced to think more steps ahead and understand the game better.

BR: What's it like getting to experience this trip with two of your FC Dallas teammates, Jeff and Dax?

HP: It's been a great experience. It was nice to see both Dax and Jeff get on the field on Saturday, especially being Dax's first national team cap.

BR: Speaking of Dax's first national team cap... any hazing of the rookie?

HP: We haven't done any hazing to Dax yet :). Many of the guys know him from youth national teams and the Olympic team, so it's not exactly like he is new to the system. Once everyone gets to know some of his secrets, maybe, just maybe, he'll get some stick. HaHa.

BR: What's a pre-game meal in Bratislava like?

HP: Our pre-game meals don't vary much. We use our trainers and a nutritional staff to determine the best foods needed prior to a match. There is a wide variety of foods, but it mostly revolves around pasta, chicken and other foods high in carbs.

BR: What's been the most entertaining thing about the trip so far?

HP: I think the national team has a great vibe in the group. There hasn't been one particular event that stands out in my mind, but being around the guys you get to hear some funny stories. Most times we end up telling the same stories over and over again, but they stay just as funny! There are quite a few guys who have spent time with John Ellinger in the residency program, so usually when we get together we get to reminisce about our delinquent days... some juicy stories there!