Saturday, June 11, 2011

Gold Cup: USA vs. Panama



Where do you even start with this crapfest? When the USA got their clocks cleaned by Spain we were told that everything was ok, that it didn't matter. After all, Spain is the world champs. We played our B-team, and we were saving it for the Gold Cup.

Well, tonight we got our clocks cleaned by Panama. Panama: Not anywhere close to the World Champs. We had our A-Team on the field. Also, hey guess what, Gold Cup is here, let's go!

Sitting and looking at the 1-2 loss tonight, I think we have glaring problems in all three areas. As I've read other blogs and articles tonight, I don't think I'm alone.

The worst part is the defense. We're an absolute shambles in central defense. Whoever let Tim Ream anywhere near the national team should be fired, (hint hint). Ream was puzzled all night against the tough, physical Panama attackers, and his horrible tackle in the 18 directly led to the game winning goal via PK. If Bradley turns in a lineup sheet with him on it for the next game, he ought to be fired on the spot. I don't really care that he can pass. I thought we selected defenders based on their ability to DEFEND. He's proven that he's obviously not ready to defend at this level.

The second big issue is the attack. Where are the goals? Don't tell me this is fine because Jozy scored against Canada. It's not. He's inconsistent at best. Agudelo is too young. He's been invisible off the ball. As much as I love Wondolowski, he's missed a few point blank shots, including a potential equalizer tonight. He's not ready either. Charlie Davies anyone?

Finally, despite the fact that midfield is supposed to be our strength. We need an injection of creativity. Donovan didn't show up until the end, and we had to switch Dempsey up top just to create pressure. Goal.com suggests we should start Freddy Adu. I'm down with that, it can't get any worse for the USA.

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