USA v JAMAICA

Brett Debbold

almost 11 years

Howard couldn't do much to stop the Jamaica goal, but he was only tested a few times in the game, and did little to warrant a higher rating. The defense was solid, only giving up a few chances beyond the set piece goal. Beasley was beaten a few times on the outside, but stayed with his man, and did well going forward- taking his space and working well with Fabian Johnson. Evans saved us with his goal, but gave possession up way too often in the first half. Maybe just first (real) game jitters, but he has to be better keeping the ball. Johnson looked good in the first half and got involved much more than he did against germany. I would've rated Zusi higher if he made anything close to an attempt to win long balls in the air. His move on the goal, though, was exactly what we need to see from him. Dempsey did fine, but seemed to disappear at times, we would be smart to work the ball through him more. Bradley played a typical Bradley game, stabilizing the midfield and finding the wingers well on counters. Jones' touch wasn't there, but he provided a physical presence that we needed against Jamaica, hopefully he makes it back next week. Altidore didn't live up to his Germany preformance, but could hardly be expected to. The goal was well taken, and he provided good energy until about 5 minutes before he was taken out. Castillo was an island on the outside, coming in during a time that the U.S. was trying to sit back and let the game end, so there was little he could do, but his only attempt was lamely taken. Cameron stepped in well for Jones, and will probably be in that position if Jones can't come back. Johnson gave us good energy off the bench, and played smart to finish off the game after the Evans goal.