[Cerek]

No offense was meant, Johnny. That's why I made sure to say that it appeared safer compared to the American sport. Then again, your version of football doesn't include any pads.

Soccer/football is slowly gaining popularity here in America, but it still doesn't get much coverage on national TV - so you're right - I haven't actually seen much soccer/football...especially some of the more brutal match-ups you mentioned.

I would think the closest American comparison would be basketball rather than football. Both teams run up and down the court with no pads and LOTS of physical contact (especially near the goal/basket). I don't think there is ANY way a woman could play on the same court as a pro-men's team.

Like you said, it can get very brutal at times.

I know soccer/football is very physical - we just don't see much of that aspect of the game on TV coverage here.