"smaller than anticipated numbers" in demonstrations in Syria

"their smaller-than-anticipated numbers a reflection of the fear of the security forces that have maintained a heavy presence..."  This is hilarious.  How Western media manage to even find excuses to explain smaller turnout of protesters in Syria.  They act like press officers for the Syrian National Council.  But let me say this about the brilliant explanation by Neil MacFarquhar: so if the reason for the smaller turnout is the "fear of security forces", why was that fear not there when thousands of Syrian protesters against the regime even when tanks were in the street?  You really have to try harder instead of these lazy efforts that can't even convince toddlers and fools.