Quote:
Originally Posted by RobsonLegend
Good result by the US, but let's be honest: they did look in danger of being overrun in the opening third of the match, and by the 2nd half kickoff, it was Argentina's 2nd team. Cruz had zero finishing tonight, and someone sharper (like, I dunno....Tevez?  ) would've bagged at least 2.
Props to Tim Howard, though. Does he love Giants Stadium or what? Great display, though he was lucky not to get sent off, if you ask me. Aguero may have embellished a bit, but there's no denying Timmy made contact and sent him flying on a goalscoring chance.
Shame about Mastroeni's red-card. That was truly shambolic. Mascherano can have no arguments about his, though.
I hate the guy, I hate his attitude, his antics make me want to slap him, but I have come to discover one thing: Landon Donovan is EXACTLY what the US national team needs. Here's my logic: we know he's failed at the highest level in Europe, but now that he's had a chance to rebuild his ego as a big fish in a small pond (MLS), he's regained that cocky swagger he once had. He thinks he belongs, and that perception is what makes him so important for the US. They need someone who takes the field against the big boys and plays like he wants to pick a fight with them, so they know the US isn't going to be intimidated and just back down.
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm nowhere near liking him. Just saying the US has to have him. I truly and honestly believe the US performance against England would have been much better with him in the lineup. |
I think you're doing a bit of a disservice to the US's performance. They played remarkably well; especially considering their showing against England just a few weeks ago. They didn't dominate by any stretch, but they were admirable and had their chances (Johnson, who I'm still not counting out, really needs to capitalize, if only to shut the detractors up. And Gooch's header off the bar was heartbreaking). They were able to hold possession much better than they were able to against Spain and the movement was miles better. Dempsey didn't look tired as he did against Spain, Beasley had his first real good showing of these friendlies (I think he benefits the most from the play of Donovan for some reason), and Bradley finally showed why he's a prospect for Everton and Middlesbrough.
The red card against Mastroeni was awful. It was made even worse by the fact that Mastroeni was having his best game since the Italy game two years ago (where, coincidentally, he was also unjustly sent off. Anyone remember that tackle/card?). As much as I like the Feilhaber/Bradley combination and as much as I think Edu is has loads of potential, I think that the midfield pairing of Bradley/Mastro looks the most promising. Mastroeni's ability to hold down that defensive midfield spot on his own gives Bradley the freedom to move forward, as he does for Heerenveen.
As for Donovan, he was brilliant. His pace and vision makes the entire team stronger. Whether you think he failed in Europe or not, there's no question that he is a great player who could make an impact on any number of teams in the top flight across Europe; and I hope he does, sooner rather than later. Mascherano's tackle on him was frightening; completely deserving of a red.
Pearce was fantastic. He's locked down the left back spot, in my opinion.
Argentina did not field their strongest squad in the second half, but I wouldn't call it a 'B' squad; just because Messi is gone doesn't mean it's sub-par. I find the most joy in the fact that Mexico was trounced by the same team.