gavrenwick Posted August 27, 2009 Author Share Posted August 27, 2009 I was delighted to find out after the Mexico game that the 7 wins we have managed in a row between 18th July and 5th September 2008 was a new record for the USA side. Rock on. ***** Wednesday 9th September - vs. Trinidad & Tobago, Skinner Park North American World Cup Qualifiers 3rd Phase - Match 8 USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Frank Simek DC; Bakary Soumare DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Freddy Adu MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Clint Dempsey ST; Eddie Gaven Subs; Luis Robles, Landon Donovan, Sacha Kljestan, Lider Marmol, Michael Channell, Seb Hines, Heath Pearce The former finalist opponents of Trinidad lined up with a stronger side than they used last time. Trinidad start the game well, Jason Scotland going close with a powerful shot from just inside the box. USA's first chance comes courtesy of Dempsey, his long effort given the chance by a silky Simek run. Another chance falls to Dempsey 20 minutes in, but the forwards effort was poor and annoying to witness. Chances are few and far between in the first half, Dempsey having the best of a pick with a free header that he put wide. Thats not to say USA aren't creating the chances, they just aren't being taken further by the poor forwards. Soumare has a fine chance before the whistle, his header bouncing awkwardly but still being saved well. Trinidad look to be aiming to half time still level, but they don't make it. A terrific cross from Dempsey is picked out by Torres, who lunges and pokes it in from 3 yards to put USA in front. Half time arrives moments later. Trinidad start the second half in similar fashion to the first, Scotland forcing Howard into a save with a well placed low drive. Trinidad completely dominate the half, not allowing USA out of their own half before a substitution is made. Two infact, Channell and Donovan coming on for Dempsey and Gaven. The changes seem to spark life into the dwindling attack, Channell setting up Beasley for a shot that he sadly puts wide. Adu and Bradley then combine to forge a chance, but its not taken and the second goal remains elusive right up until a moment of brilliance from the right sider. Bradley is hauled down outside the box and a freekick is given, Adu stepping up and leathering the ball with some force past the keeper and into the net for 2-0. Torres comes off to a standing ovation, Kljestan coming on for the final 10 minutes. A final chance falls to Scotland, but the striker should pass instead of shooting, and he messes the chance up, the whistle coming moments later and calling time on a win that sees the USA progress to the World Cup finals. Trinidad & Tobago 0 USA 2 (Torres 42, Adu 81) Attendance: 3,976 Man of the Match; Freddy Adu Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted August 29, 2009 Author Share Posted August 29, 2009 USA moved up one place in the rankings to 18th. Happy days. ***** Squad for games against Panama and Canada. Goalkeepers; Tim Howard (Everton), Luis Robles (DC United), Matt Reis (New England) Left Backs; Eric Brunner (DC United), Jose Burciaga Jnr. (Colombus), Marvell Wynne (Toronto) Right Backs; Steven Cherundolo (Hannover), Frank Simek (Sheffield Wednesday) Centre Backs; Bakary Soumare (Le Mans), Seb Hines (Middlesbrough), Oguchi Onyewu (Sevilla), Patrick Ianni (Real Salt Lake), Lider Marmol (Castilla), Jay DeMerit (Birmingham City) Left Midfield; DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Heath Pearce (Rostock) Right Midfield; Freddy Adu (Benfica), Clint Dempsey (Fulham) Centre Midfield; Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca), Michael Bradley (Gladbach), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Eddie Gaven (Colombus), Danny Szetela (Racing) Strikers; Landon Donovan (Los Angeles), Michael Channell (Adelaide United), Eddie Johnson (Fulham), Jozy Altidore (River) ***** Saturday 10th October - vs. Panama, KC Wizards Stadium North American World Cup Qualifiers 3rd Phase - Match 9 USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Jose Burciaga Jnr. DR; Frank Simek DC; Bakary Soumare DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Freddy Adu MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Michael Channell Subs; Luis Robles, Danny Szetela, Sacha Kljestan, Lider Marmol, Jozy Altidore, Seb Hines, Heath Pearce USA start the game ambitious, Torres forcing a top save out of Mejia with a long range effort. A slick passing move involving Beasley and Torres sets up Channell, who turns and smashes the ball past Mejia, but is called back when the assistants flag is up. The freekick is cleared but immediately pumped back forward, Donovan taking it and beating two defenders before lashing a fine effort past the keeper for the opening goal. USA continue to attack in force looking for the safety net of a second goal, and it almost comes when Torres sets up Donovan with a nifty pass, the strikers efforts saved but almost squirming over the line before Butriago clears it. Juan Rodriguez has Panama's only effort, a free header in the box, but he hits it high and mighty. USA grab their decisive second goal with a well worked move, Beasley bending a freekick from the left to the path of Donovan who rises high and heads finely past Mejia for his second. The chances just keep coming for USA, Beasley hitting the post with a bending shot on the edge of the area. A chance falls to Torres after a fleeting run by Adu, but the midfielder can't keep it down, and the game calls for half time. The second half sees American domination continuing, Channell going close with a fine shot from distance. Torres then forces a save with a sliced shot from the edge. Donovan has had a terrific match and it continues when he almost grabs his hattrick, a shot clattering off the bar preventing him from having it. Channell has been quiet and is replaced with Altidore. A mighty run by Adu ends with a fine cross to Donovan, but the striker is prevented from reaching it by a tug on his shirt, penalty given. Torres steps up and calmly places it in the bottom corner. The final minutes of the game pass by unnoticed, another win for the USA. USA 3 (Donovan 4, 29, Torres pen76) Panama 0 Attendance: 18,471 Man of the Match; Landon Donovan Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bergtaur Posted August 30, 2009 Share Posted August 30, 2009 Sam's army is on fire right now. Kudos to your managerial skills Gav, this has been a great read so far, I've really enjoyed it. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
MeLikeFM Posted August 30, 2009 Share Posted August 30, 2009 WOW, Jozy Altidore at River, thats a strange one. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreenxxGreg Posted August 31, 2009 Share Posted August 31, 2009 Fantastic work!!! Carrying momentum from an awesome win over Mexico, looks like you've just about run away with the group. Polish that group off then see what you can against the big boys in those pre-WC friendlies Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 2, 2009 Author Share Posted September 2, 2009 Thanks alot guys. The run of form is thoroughly decent. Greg - I only have one friendly before the World Cup, and sadly its only against St Lucia. **** Our continued success has made me enthrallingly happy. It has also moved us up 3 places in the rankings to 15th. I would LOVE to break into the top 7, but our success will need to continue for that. ***** Wednesday 14th October - vs. Canada, BMO Field North American World Cup Qualifiers 3rd Phase - Match 10 USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Lider Marmol DC; Bakary Soumare DC; Jay DeMerit AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Freddy Adu MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Michael Channell Subs; Luis Robles, Danny Szetela, Sacha Kljestan, Patrick Ianni, Jozy Altidore, Seb Hines, Heath Pearce Canada started the game strongly, knowing full well a win for them and defeat for Mexico would see them qualify as 2nd place. An early effort from De Rosario is wayward, along with a Channell effort. Canada go oh so close when Guzman's effort is cleared off the line, but USA's counter is unbelievably effective. Only Beasley and Donovan make the effort to charge away, and its Beasley's cross that finds captain Donovan in the centre, his stretch to reach the ball ending Begovic's hope of a save. Not bad for his 46th goal. It takes just three minutes and the next chance for USA to double their lead. A cross from Beasley once more, going deep this time to once again find Donovan at the back, his finish laden with precision and goalscoring acumen. Despite the strong half, USA are hurt when Adu is forced off injured, Szetela replacing him. Despite this, USA seem unaffected, and grab their third half hour in. A terrific corner from Beasley, capping his hat-trick of assists, finding Bradley in the box, the star midfielder rising high to head home with style. The first chance after the restart ends with another goal, this time USA's sloppy defending allowing Atiba Hutchinson to strike past Howard, Wynne to blame for this. Half time is welcoming, even just for the crowds to get a chance to rest. The second half is surpremely poor and the clock races down as neither side even seem to contemplate pushing forward. A half chance falls to Szetela as a goalbound occurs from a corner, but Canada do well to clear their lines. Bradley also has an excellent effort saved, Begovic not allowing the midfielder to better him this time round. The referee brings the game to a close, USA sealing 1st place of this phase, World Cup place already assured 4 days ago. Canada 1 (Hutchinson 34)) USA 3 (Donovan 19, 21, Bradley 32) Attendance: 20,151 Man of the Match; Landon Donovan ***** | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | U.S.A. | | 10 | 7 | 3 | 0 | 17 | 3 | +14 | 24 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | Mexico | | 10 | 7 | 1 | 2 | 28 | 6 | +22 | 22 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | Q | Canada | | 10 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 13 | 15 | -2 | 17 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | Pl | Honduras | | 10 | 4 | 1 | 5 | 11 | 13 | -2 | 13 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5th | | Panama | | 10 | 3 | 1 | 6 | 10 | 21 | -11 | 10 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 6th | | Trinidad & Tobago | | 10 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 4 | 25 | -21 | 0 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| ***** Sunday 13th December Today I turned down a job offer from Empoli. I would like to combine my international managership with club once more, but felt Empoli weren't the right side for me. Plus they are bottom of Serie A. Now we must wait for the 21st, as that is the day we learn out World Cup fate. Monday 21st December Today is the day of the draw. I am so god damn nervous. Argentina USA Nigeria Israel Now, what do you make of that? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 4, 2009 Author Share Posted September 4, 2009 The Lowdown Group A: Chile, Italy, New Zealand, Russia A tough group for New Zealand, with Italy most likely favourites to take the top spot. Russia might have their hands full with Chile, but should manage it. Group B: Ghana, Holland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia surely have no chance and I will laugh my face off if they even qualify, but good luck to them none the less. Holland or Portugal will take top spot, with the other surely able to dispatch the Ghanains. But you never know, an upset may be on the cards. Group C: Greece, Mali, Spain, South Korea One of the weaker groups around, Spain should steal top spot, with the other three battling for second. S.Korea and Greece should be the front runners, with Mali looking a little weak. Group D: Japan, Turkey, South Africa, Uruguay A wide open group in which any side could qualify. Personally, I think Uruguay and Turkey will seal it, but this group could be rife with draws and that could leave it open to anyone. Group E: Argentina, Israel, Nigeria, USA Of course, I think we will win this group with ease. Nah, on a proper note, it should be tight, but I am confident we will seal progression, most likely in second place behind Argentina. Group F: Canada, England, Germany, Paraguay England and Germany should seal the group with ease, Canada looking out of their depth. Paraguay could cause and upset, Germany and England both rife to the rare upset. Group G: Australia, Croatia, Egypt, Poland Another group wide open, with anyone given the chance to make it out of this group. I personally think Croatia and Australia will seal it, but any win for another side will blow it open. Group H: Brazil, France, Ivory Coast, Mexico The toughest group there is. Anything could happen here, all sides with good ability, and Ivory Coast setting themselves up as a force and Mexico seemingly growing stronger over time. ****** Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 6, 2009 Author Share Posted September 6, 2009 Squad for the friendly first, with the three in stars who won't be going to the World Cup. We would sadly be without Freddy Adu, a player who we were pinning quite a few hopes on. But we must soldier on. Kljestan would also miss out with injury, which is a massive blow. The odds put us at 20-1 and say we should treat the tournament as a learning experience. Like hell we will. Goalkeepers; Tim Howard (Everton), *Nick Rimando (Salt Lake), Brad Guzan (Aston Villa) Left Backs; *Kevin Goldwaithe (New York), Cory Gibbs (Sporting), Marvell Wynne (Toronto) Right Backs; Danny Szetela (Racing), Frank Simek (Sheffield Wednesday), Jonathan Spector (Blackburn) Centre Backs; Bakary Soumare (Le Mans), Oguchi Onyewu (Sevilla), Patrick Ianni (Real Salt Lake), Lider Marmol (Castilla), Jay DeMerit (Birmingham City) Left Midfield; DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Heath Pearce (Rostock), *Bobby Convey (Cadiz) Right Midfield; Arturo Alvarez (KV Mechelen), Clint Dempsey (Fulham) Centre Midfield; Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca), Michael Bradley (Gladbach), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Maurice Edu (Rangers) Strikers; Landon Donovan (Los Angeles), Michael Channell (Adelaide United), Eddie Johnson (Fulham), Jozy Altidore (River) ***** Saturday 6th June - vs. St Lucia, Mindo Philip Park Friendly USA Squad; GK; Brad Guzan DL; Cory Gibbs DR; Jonathan Spector DC; Oguchi Onyewu DC; Jay DeMerit AML; Heath Pearce AMR; Clint Dempsey MC; Maurice Edu MC; Danny Szetela ST; Eddie Johnson ST; Michael Channell Subs; Tim Howard, Marvell Wynne, Lider Marmol, Patrick Ianni, Jose Francisco Torres, Michael Bradley, Landon Donovan, Arturo Alvarez, DaMarcus Beasley The last game before the World Cup begins in 8 days. A second string side started the game, most likely with the aim of avoiding injuries to key players. USA could have taken an early lead, Onyewu heading over. It takes just 6 more mins though, a cross from Pearce finding Szetela, who takes a touch and lashes a low shot under the keeper for 1-0. Positive attacking play sees Spector burst down the right, his cross finding Edu who heads off the bar. Lucia manage to fathom a chance half hour in, a long range effort from France going way over and causing no trouble. The chances continue to flow for USA, Johnson nicking the ball away before dragging a left footed shot wide. Edu then has a 40 yard effort tipped just over the bar, a terrific effort none the less. A second goal does arrive before half time, a terrific solo run from Dempsey seeing him pull inside, before doubling back on himself and lashing a left footed in the top corner. Half time arrives and five subs are made; Alvarez, Torres, Marmol, Wynne and Donovan replacing Gibbs, Spector, Dempsey, Edu and Johnson. It takes three minutes for two of the subs to combine, Torres playing a nifty ball to Donovan who smacks a screamer in from 20 yards to make it 3-0. Theres a shock slightly in store, Lucia grabbing one back for themselves. A freekick is earned on the edge, and Bernal acutely bends it in for a nice rare goal. The domination for the USA continues though, Alvarez wasting a chance and Torres heading over from a good spot. The last sub is made late on, Bradley coming on for Szetela. Pearce goes off injured late on, no subs available to replace him. The clock winds down on the game, and a final effort for DeMerit is wasted when he pokes his effort wide. A nice runout to get into the mood for the World Cup, Up first, Argentina. St Lucia 1 (Bernal 53) USA 3 (Szetela 8, Dempsey 38, Donovan 49) Attendance: 4902 Man of the Match; Landon Donovan ****** Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 6, 2009 Author Share Posted September 6, 2009 Other Results: Chile 1 – 1 Russia Italy 6 – 0 New Zealand Holland 2 – 0 Ghana Mali 0 – 2 Greece Saudi Arabia 0 – 5 Portugal Spain 3 – 1 South Korea Uruguay 0 – 0 South Africa Japan 0 – 3 Turkey Nigeria 1 – 1 Israel England 3 – 2 Paraguay Germany 0 – 0 Canada Poland 2 – 4 Croatia Egypt 0 – 1 Australia Mexico 1 – 2 Brazil France 2 – 1 Ivory Coast ***** Monday 14th June - vs. Argentina, Greenpoint Stadium World Cup Group E – Match 1 USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Frank Simek DC; Bakary Soumare DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Clint Dempsey MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Eddie Johnson Subs; Brad Guzan, Jonathan Spector, Heath Pearce, Patrick Ianni, Arturo Alvarez, Michael Channell, Jay DeMerit, Cory Gibbs, Danny Szetela, Lider Marmol, Jozy Altidore, Maurice Edu So here we go. Maradona’s Argentina. I almost crapped my pants at the sight of the front three of Aguero, Tevez and Messi. Argentina start as strongly as expected, Messi running at Soumare before hitting a shot, Howard happy to see it scrape the bar and go over. To many people’s surprise though, USA force the first save, Bradley and Onyewu combining to set up Donovan, the forward hitting a good shot but Franco also pulling out an equally good save with his feet. The ball returns with Wynne, but he sets up Donovan, who drags his shot wide again. It takes just over 25 minutes, but that inevitable first goal for Argentina arrives. A freekick from Insua tricking all in the box and picking Tevez unmarked, who smashes a powerful past Howard for the lead. The sway of pressure turns against the USA now, a Messi freekick almost cracking in off the post, thankfully Bradley was on hand to clear it away. Mascherano also has an effort turned over by Howard, the follow up corner resulting in nothing. Aguero then breaks past Wynne and forces his way into the box, his effort just saved somehow by Howard as the half time whistle is blown. Straight from the kickoff, Argentina string together nine passes ending with Tevez shooting, the forwards effort just somehow staying out of Howard’s goal. Howard then makes a hash out of everything and comes out to meet a loose ball, Aguero nicking in and beating him to it. Aguero hits the shot, but it somehow bobbles wide. Anyone envisaging an early second half goal would be about right, USA somehow keeping them out, Mascherano hitting the bar and Howard saving a Messi shot. An injury to Soumare halts the game and relieves the pressure n Howard and his goal, DeMerit replacing the defender. Dempsey is also replaced, Alvarez coming on in his spot. A clash between Bradley and Aguero ends with the referee opting to book both players, neither looking happy about it. USA’s best chance of the half comes courtesy of Johnson, the striker chasing a Simek ball and hitting a first time volley, the ball hitting the side netting. Scenes of utter jubilation follow when USA’s best move of the match bring ripe pickings. A long ball is headed down to Johnson who plays it out to Alvarez, the winger then beating Insua before cutting in and crossing. The ball rolls across Franco’s goal, the keeper missing his interception and Donovan being presented with an empty goal, the striker making no mistake and tapping it in. But just when USA were looking comfortable to hold on for a draw, Wynne drags down Tevez in the box for a penalty. The defender is booked as Higuain smashes the penalty in. The game drags away from USA, and a late Beasley booking brings the gloss off a fairly decent USA performance. Argentina 2 (Tevez 25, Higuain pen86) USA 1 (Donovan 75) Attendance: 63,324 Man of the Match; Carlos Tevez ***** | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | | Argentina | | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | +1 | 3 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | Israel | | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Nigeria | | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | U.S.A. | | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | -1 | 0 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreenxxGreg Posted September 7, 2009 Share Posted September 7, 2009 can't complain about 2-1 loss to Argentina on a PK goal. And when Argentina beats up their next opponent coupled with a USA victory, you'll be in the drivers seat for qualifying going into the last game against an opponent that at absolute best is equal, and in reality (hopefully) a lesser opponent. Btw, shocking to see Canada hold out for a 0-0 draw with Germany. Gives them a little bit of life Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 7, 2009 Author Share Posted September 7, 2009 Thanks Greg. The World Cup gets much weirder for Canada. As for what you say, its all pretty true, and hope I can keep it going and hope the squad don't lose faith after the Argies match. ***** Other Results: Russia 0 – 0 Italy New Zealand 0 – 4 Chile Ghana 1 – 1 Saudi Arabia Portugal 2 – 2 Holland South Korea 3 – 1 Mali Greece 0 – 3 Spain Japan 0 – 3 Uruguay Turkey 3 – 0 South Africa Israel 1 – 3 Argentina Canada 0 – 0 England Paraguay 1 – 1 Germany Egypt 0 – 4 Poland Australia 0 – 2 Croatia Brazil 1 – 0 France Ivory Coast 1 – 1 Mexico Saturday 19th June - vs. Nigeria, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium World Cup Group E – Match 2 USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Frank Simek DC; Jay DeMerit DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Clint Dempsey MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Eddie Johnson Subs; Brad Guzan, Jonathan Spector, Heath Pearce, Patrick Ianni, Arturo Alvarez, Michael Channell, Cory Gibbs, Danny Szetela, Lider Marmol, Jozy Altidore, Maurice Edu I was disappointed to lose to Argentina, but knew we could get something from our next two matches. Well we didn’t have to, we needed to! The game doesn’t start well for Nigeria, Mikel being booked after a minute for fouling Bradley. It takes ten full minutes for the game to get going, and it’s the pacey Nigerians who dominate with their running, Obodo having a good chance go just wide. They continue to control the game, Obasi setting up Obodo again, the midfielder wasting his chance with a poor skied effort. The USA’s first booking goes to way of Bradley for a poor tackle on Apram which sees the player go off. Despite the temporary relieve, Nigeria are all over USA, Martins forcing a top class save from Howard, keeping the USA level in the game. Despite all of the Nigerian’s attacking pace and the chances they conjured so far, its they who go behind. A freekick from Torres finds Donovan unmarked on the edge of the area, and the American talisman takes a touch and smashes a shot in off the post to put USA in a surprise lead and his 50th international goal. The USA seem to come alive at this, and the next chance reaps even more dividends. Some supremely slick passing sees Donovan work his way forward, and after skipping past Enarkahire, he bends the ball into the top corner to double the lead. Unbelievable. To the utter surprise of the USA faithful, a third should come, but Dempsey wastes his chance and hangs his head in deserved shame. Half time arrives and prevents Obasi from continuing a run he started. A blow for USA as Bradley doesn’t emerge for the second half through injury, and the fans praying it’s not serious. Szetela replaces him. The second half starts much in the favour of the Nigerian’s, Obinna having a header land on the roof of the net with the first effort of the half. First half villain Mikel sets up Yakubu, but as with the rest of his team, his shot is wayward. Sadly, a second injury spoils the half, DeMerit going down under a tackle from Mikel, Gibbs replacing the ailed defender. Enyeama almost grabs himself an assist with his goalkick, the ball bypassing everyone and landing between teammates Yakubu and Howard, the latter smothering it up without fault. Dempsey is looking tired out there, and Jack’s final sub is used bringing Alvarez on in his place. USA come alive with his introduction, Donovan going on a solo run from the wingers pass, his shot just tipped over superbly by Enyeama. Be grateful to Nigeria, they never give up, Yakubu almost lobbing Howard in the final minute, but has to watch it just go over. The full time whistle blows leaving USA in control of their own destiny now. USA 2 (Donovan 37, 41) Nigeria 0 Attendance: 47,568 Man of the Match; Landon Donovan ***** | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Argentina | | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 2 | +3 | 6 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | U.S.A. | | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 2 | +1 | 3 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Israel | | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | -2 | 1 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Nigeria | | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 | 1 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 8, 2009 Author Share Posted September 8, 2009 Other Results: New Zealand 0 – 2 Russia Italy 2 – 2 Chile Saudi Arabia 1 – 1 Holland Portugal 4 – 0 Ghana Greece 2 – 0 South Korea Mali 1 – 3 Spain South Africa 3 – 0 Japan Uruguay 0 – 0 Turkey Nigeria 2 – 2 Argentina England 0 – 0 Germany Paraguay 0 – 0 Canada Poland 0 – 0 Australia Croatia 3 – 0 Egypt Brazil 1 – 1 Ivory Coast Mexico 3 – 5 France Thursday 24th June - vs. Israel, Peter Mokaba Stadium World Cup Group E – Match 3 USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Cory Gibbs DR; Frank Simek DC; Patrick Ianni DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Clint Dempsey MC; Maurice Edu MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Jozy Altidore Subs; Brad Guzan, Jonathan Spector, Heath Pearce, Arturo Alvarez, Michael Channell, Danny Szetela, Lider Marmol, Eddie Johnson Nigeria had been held by Argentina earlier in the day, so anything but defeat would see us progress. And it’s USA who start with some vigour, a freekick being earned by Altidore, and taken by him too. The effort isn’t too shabby but it does just go wide of the post. The game struggles to get going thought, neither side pushing forward with any intent on grabbing a goal. Benayoun has Israel’s best early effort, but it’s a poor shot. The play is mainly involved in the middle, a few yellows are dished out to Israel players Melamed, Scheimann, Benayoun and Sahar for ridiculous tackles. Altidore has the finest chance of the half, his solo run ending with a powerful shot, Auoate equal to it though. Sadly it doesn’t spark any more chances as both sides bandy the ball around aimlessly. Half time can’t come too quickly for both sets of fans. Another blow for USA at half time as Gibbs needs to be replaced with a knock, Pearce taking his place. USA start the half much more attacking in style, a cross from Beasley finding Altidore who heads just wide. Donovan plays a superb little ball into Beasley, but the winger takes too long to shoot, and he fires into the keepers body, the ball going out for a corner. Its delivered nicely by Simek, Altidore getting on the end of it but heading wide. As the half moves on, Edu has a chance with a freekick, but his effort hits the wall and earns a corner. Beasley sends it in and finds the head of Altidore again, the striker missing again, hitting the side netting this time. It seems too much for Jack as he comes off for Channell. He causes immediate trouble earning a freekick for USA, Edu taking and only just sending it inches wide. The first American yellow is given late on, Onyewu bringing down Tamuz. As the game draws to a close, USA begin to employ time wasting tactics, Pearce running down the left before turning and heading back again! He eventually plays the ball to Donovan, the striker taking a shot that is easily saved. Another fine USA chance falls to Edu when Channell works some nice space on the right, his low cross finding the midfielder, but his point blank shot is somehow kept out. The whistle eventually blows, sealing USA’s hard earned passage into the next round. USA 0 Israel 0 Attendance: 45,514 Man of the Match; Wasim Agbaria ***** | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Argentina | | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 4 | +3 | 7 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | [b]2nd | Q | U.S.A. | | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | +1 | 4[/b] | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Nigeria | | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 5 | -2 | 2 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Israel | | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | -2 | 2 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
mark wilson27 Posted September 8, 2009 Share Posted September 8, 2009 Good to see you through to the next round Gav, Who you got in the Second Round Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 9, 2009 Author Share Posted September 9, 2009 You shall soon see Mark not the draw I wanted! ***** Final Group Standings: | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Italy | | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 2 | +6 | 5 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | Chile | | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 3 | +4 | 5 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Russia | | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1 | +2 | 5 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | New Zealand | | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 12 | -12 | 0 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Portugal | | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 11 | 2 | +9 | 7 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | Holland | | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 3 | +2 | 5 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Saudi Arabia | | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 7 | -5 | 2 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Ghana | | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 7 | -6 | 1 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Spain | | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 9 | 2 | +7 | 9 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | Greece | | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 3 | +1 | 6 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | South Korea | | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | -2 | 3 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Mali | | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 8 | -6 | 0 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Turkey | | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 0 | +6 | 7 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | Uruguay | | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 0 | +3 | 5 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | South Africa | | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Japan | | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 9 | -9 | 0 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Argentina | | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 4 | +3 | 7 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | U.S.A. | | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | +1 | 4 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Nigeria | | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 5 | -2 | 2 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Israel | | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | -2 | 2 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | England | | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 2 | +1 | 5 | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | Germany | | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Canada | | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Paraguay | | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | -1 | 2 | | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Croatia | | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 9 | 2 | +7 | 9 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | Poland | | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 4 | +2 | 4 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Australia | | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | -1 | 4 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Egypt | | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 8 | -8 | 0 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | Q | Brazil | | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 2 | +2 | 7 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | Q | France | | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 5 | +2 | 6 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Ivory Coast | | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | -1 | 2 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Mexico | | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 8 | -3 | 1 | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| Second Round Draw: Holland – Italy Portugal – Chile Spain – Uruguay USA - England Greece – Turkey Argentina – Germany Croatia – France Poland – Brazil Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 9, 2009 Author Share Posted September 9, 2009 I am now going to ruin alot of your days ***** Other Second Round Results: Holland 2 – 1 Italy (AET) Portugal 1 – 2 Chile Spain 3 – 0 Uruguay Greece 0 – 1 Turkey Argentina 3 – 2 Germany (AET) Croatia 0 – 2 France Poland 0 – 2 Brazil Tuesday 29th June - vs. England, Loftus World Cup Second Round USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Jonathan Spector DC; Patrick Ianni DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Clint Dempsey MC; Danny Szetela MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Jozy Altidore Subs; Brad Guzan, Frank Simek, Heath Pearce, Arturo Alvarez, Michael Channell, Maurice Edu, Lider Marmol, Eddie Johnson I was unhappy to be drawn against such a bid side at such an early point. But we put up a point of fighting, and started well. The pressure soon turned against us though, Ashley Young going very close with a bending effort from the left. But it would be us that got the first chance, and the first goal. A corner was earned by Szetela, Beasley sending it in with a great degree of precision. The ball landed at the feet of Altidore, who smashes it in with his left foot, sending the USA fans into a frenzy of happiness. England seem to deflate after this, USA beginning to take advantage of the poor morale after the goal. A chance falls to Donovan, but the top scorer for the USA so far in the tournament fails to convert the chance, a rare thing for him at the moment. Theo Walcott constantly tries to break down the right side, but Wynne is more than equal to him every time, and blocks out the winger at every opportunity. England fall apart once more, and this allows a surprise second USA goal. A break on the left sees Wynne find Szetela in the centre, the midfielder hitting a powerful shot goalwards. Sadly Ashley Cole steps in the way and diverts past his own keeper, gifting USA a 2-0 lead. England look lost and begin gifting possession away with such ease, Gerrard and Rooney the main culprits. After the own goal, the half seems to die down and nothing of any real note occurs, USA happy and content with just sitting back and not pushing forward. England seem lost on the pitch, and the arrival of half time is very welcoming to the fans, even for the USA ones to contemplate beating the English. Half time seems to have had no effect on the England side, they continue just as sloppy and poor as they went into break. Terry is the main culprit, fouling five times in the first 9minutes of the half. The first real event of the half is a booking for Micah Richards, the full back hauling down Altidore on the edge of the area and referee Gaciba da Silva saw no option but to book him. The game is pretty poor in this half, and despite passing well, USA seem unable to grab a third goal. A couple of substitutes occur late on, Dempsey and Donovan coming off for Edu and Channell, a move to shore up the midfield and secure the 2-0 lead. A rare chance falls to England, a Gerrard corner finding Terry, the Chelsea man just heading into Howard’s arms. Another chance falls to Rooney, but the striker is unable to convert and sees Howard save once more. Jonathan Spector is booked late on for a foul on Gerrard, the defender taking him out from behind. A late sub appearance for Pearce in place of Beasley brings no renewed attack, the game dying out after the second goal and not reappearing. A thoroughly massive win for the USA though as they push on, and the draw waits once more. England 0 USA 2 (Altidore 11, Cole OG 21) Attendance: 49,552 Man of the Match; Patrick Ianni Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
mark wilson27 Posted September 9, 2009 Share Posted September 9, 2009 Two Nil, Two bloody nil, what the hell is going on Good result for your lot, good luck for the rest of the tournament Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
tenthreeleader Posted September 10, 2009 Share Posted September 10, 2009 Well, it's not quite Belo Horizonte, but what a FANTASTIC result! < koff > Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 11, 2009 Author Share Posted September 11, 2009 Thanks alot guys. Surpassed the FA's hopes of making it to the 2nd round, so anything from now is an achievement. ***** Other Results: Chile 1 - 3 Spain Holland 2 - 1 Turkey Argentina 0 - 0 Brazil (Brazil win on penalties 7-6) ***** Saturday 3rd July - vs. France, Greenpoint Stadium World Cup Quarter Final USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Jonathan Spector DC; Patrick Ianni DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Arturo Alvarez MC; Danny Szetela MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Jozy Altidore Subs; Brad Guzan, Frank Simek, Heath Pearce, Michael Channell, Maurice Edu, Lider Marmol, Eddie Johnson It seems we had no luck in getting a lesser side in the draw, and it left us with the mighty France in the quarters. USA started well and should have taken an early lead, Altidore's cross finding an unmarked Beasley in the centre, but his free header was weak and Mandanda easily had it covered. A long range Altidore effort also goes close, but not close enough to warrant a save. France have the first real chance of the game, a through ball unleashing Benzema, the striker taking a touch to the left before whacking a shot off the post. Gourcuff and Ben Arfa cause some chaos in the centre, the pair combining to set up Gourcuff for the shot, his effort just going wide from a tight angle. But it is to be the USA who take the lead, and in some style too. The French wings are stretched out, and Alvarez pulls inside with the ball laying it off for Torres, the Mexican born man lashing a 25 yard effort in off the bar past Mandanda to put USA in front. France immediately go close with an instant reply, a Ben Arfa corner finding Benzema in the centre, his header cleared off the line with a Wynne diving header. The pressure continues before a Benzema heads wide, a goalkick so welcoming to the USA. They continue to pound on the door though, Flamini forcing a save with a powerful long range shot before Szetela clears once more. Despite this, USA make it to half time in front, and what a lead it is. They must now try and hold on. But they don't sit back and take a pummelling, they seal a second goal early in the half with the first chance. Alvarez on the right does great to pick out Donovan in the centre, the striker hitting a right footed effort first time past Mandanda to seal the second goal. France begin to turn angry and earn two yellows in a short space of time, Gourcuff and Flamini both fouling Alvarez, the little winger causing too much trouble for them. USA get in on the act too, though, Torres booked for fouling Henry before Szetela picks one up for arguing with the referee over Torres' booking. Referee then books Onyewu for bringing down Ben Arfa from behind with a tug of the shirt. France try to get back into the game once more, Gourcuff hitting a freekick over and Henry missing a sitter from 6 yards. USA suffer a blow late on, star man Alvarez limping off to be replaced with Channell. Ben Arfa is the next man to pick up a yellow, the midfielder hauling down Channell from behind. France eventually get the goal that they so needed, a run on the right by Henry seeing him cross in from the byline, Flamini in the centre to head in the strikers cross. Game on? USA have the finest chance of their lives to seal the win, Wynne forcing a save from Mandanda with a clean shot, Channell missing the open net and hitting the side netting to everyones annoyance. France now begin to knock ever so loudly on Howards goal, Ben Arfa missing a sitter after hard work from Anelka who just came on. Digard picks up a late yellow for tackling from behind on Ianni. He has to go off, Spector replacing him. Toulalan is then booked for a tackle from behind on Torres. Hearts go into mouths when Bodmer breaks away from the USA defence and he is clean through on goal, Howard racing out to meet him. The midfielder screws up his shot though and somehow skies it. The 4 minutes of injury time tick away, and when the whistle blows, its euphoria beyond belief. USA have made it to the semi finals. France 1 (Flamini 77) USA 2 (Torres 28, Donovan 52) Attendance: 63,314 Man of the Match; Arturo Alvarez Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Manxie_Ash Posted September 11, 2009 Share Posted September 11, 2009 Bloody Hell Gav Well done to you, sir. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
mark wilson27 Posted September 11, 2009 Share Posted September 11, 2009 Nice one Gav, at least you beat the bloody French aswell... good luck for the rest of the tournament Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Panthermil Posted September 11, 2009 Share Posted September 11, 2009 This has been a very enjoyable read. Good luck with your next match! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 12, 2009 Author Share Posted September 12, 2009 Thanks alot guys. Still stunned we beat France, now we have Holland. It gets no easier.. ***** Tuesday 6th July - vs. Holland, Moses Mabhida Stadium World Cup Semi Final USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Jonathan Spector DC; Patrick Ianni DC; Oguchi Onyewu AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Arturo Alvarez MC; Danny Szetela MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Jozy Altidore Subs; Brad Guzan, Frank Simek, Heath Pearce, Michael Channell, Maurice Edu, Lider Marmol, Eddie Johnson, Bakary Soumare, Michael Bradley As USA lined up against Holland, one must ask how far this side can go. Either Spain or Brazil await them in the final. Holland start the stronger side, Huntelaar wasting a good one on one chance to put his side ahead. Despite being the World Cup, its a Merseyside fight as Kuyt twice forces a save from Howard. van Persie also forces a save from Howard, Holland asserting their authority with some good attacking play. USA however are eventually undone by a solo run from Huntelaar, no one putting a decent enough tackle in to stop him, the striker eventually forcing the ball into the net to put Holland ahead. van Persie then has a freekick, and they almost go two up, the ball only just going wide. The pressure continues well into the half, Heitinga and Seedorf both missing headers that were easier to score from. USA do eventually forge a chance, Torres firing a bending effort towards goal, sadly having to watch as it goes just wide. Donovan goes closest with their best chance, a dipping shot just scraping the bar as it went over. Half time arrives, Altidore not returning through injury, Channell replacing him. The second half starts with more Dutch pressure, Bouma hitting a left footed effort just wide of Howards goal. Sadly, the second goal arrives early, a through ball playing van Persie in, the striker running before simply slotting the ball past Howard. It looks unlikely that USA can make it back now. However, some hope immediately follows, Boulahrouz gifting a penalty after a foul on Alvarez. It comes at a price though, Szetela goes off injured and is replaced with Bradley. Donovan steps up, and leathers the penalty past Stekelenburg, and perhaps the game is on now. In what some would class as a sensational turn around, USA pull level. Call me a liar if you like, but the goal is sublime. Channell works some nice space and hits a shot, but it hits Boulahrouz and loops over to the left where Beasley is. The winger snaps a volley first time, and it flies over Stekelenburg's head and into the top corner. Sublime. The game pushes on, and Holland reassert their authority after that massive scare. Babel has a good run on the left, and pulls inside before unleashing a rocket that flies past Howard to regain the lead. You wouldn't believe it if you saw it. A cross from Beasley in the centre sees Channell pull in front of Boulahrouz, who makes a complete hash of his tackle and brings the striker down. The defender has had a shocker. Channell steps up, and the youngster shows no nerves as he slots the ball home to level the scores again. Sensational match so far. Words cannot explain this period of play. Its tiring me out. A classy run by Alvarez who is now looking mightily tired, sees him play the ball to Donovan, who then turns Heitinga and curls a splendid effort past the keeper to put USA in front. What a game. The clock finally has a chance to tick down, Torres nearly sealing an unlikely win with a low effort. Hearts are in mouths now as a whopping 5 minutes of injury time is announced. Holland begin to push everyman forward, Kuyt almost getting goalbound had it not been for Beasley's superb tackle. Just seconds remain, Channell racing away from goal, he is brought down but no foul is given. The ball goes out of play, and the whistle blows. USA have done it. They have made it to the final! Boulahrouz ended the match with a rating of 3.9. Holland 3 (Huntelaar 30, van Persie 52, Babel 68) USA 4 (Donovan pen 56, 76, Beasley 64, Channell pen71) Attendance: 69,979 Man of the Match; Landon Donovan Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Manxie_Ash Posted September 12, 2009 Share Posted September 12, 2009 It just gets better and better! Congratulations Gav, something you can definately be proud of! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 13, 2009 Author Share Posted September 13, 2009 Thanks Manxie. Just one hurdle to go. ***** Sunday 11th July - vs. Brazil, Soccer City World Cup Final USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Jonathan Spector DC; Patrick Ianni DC; Bakary Soumare AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Arturo Alvarez MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Clint Dempsey Subs; Brad Guzan, Frank Simek, Heath Pearce, Michael Channell, Maurice Edu, Lider Marmol, Eddie Johnson, Danny Szetela, Jozy Altidore Spain beat Holland to take 3rd spot with a 2-0 victory. The final took a while to get started, the USA forcing forward well with Beasley but unable to create much. We then suffered a massive setback as the first attempt on goal went in, Vagner Love breaking past the defence and lashing a simple shot past an outstretched Howard. Despite the disappointment of going behind, USA immediately fought back. A break on the left by Donovan allowed Dempsey a run along the back and unnoticed, his effort so fine that Julio Cesar had no chance of stopping it from going in. Sadly the scoreline doesn't last us long, a run from Ramires setting ip Love once more, the strikers shot rebounding to Robinho who made no mistake of poking it past Howard. Brazil had the ball in net just moments later, Kaka setting up Love, but the strikers effort was ruled out for offside. Despite being the far inferior side, USA fight well and pass the ball superbly, Kristofersson having built a solid and dominant side. Howard makes a good save from a Ramires header after a blinding run by Maxwell on the left. Half time arrives with Brazil in front, though either side could still win this. The start of the second half saw Dempsey presented with a fine chance to pull his country level, but Cesar is equal to his effort, and the rebound is cleared. A blinding run by Alvarez also causes a heap load of trouble, but his cross is dealt with easily, and it forms a counter that ends with Love getting booked. First sub for USA sees Channell come on for Torres to form a 4-3-3. The clock however ticks down, and Brazil do a fine job in keeping USA away from their goal. Injury time approaches and Daniel Alves misses a great chance to seal the win. The game is held up by an injury to Soumare, Spector replacing him, but there is little USA can do as the whistle blows. It has been a fine, fine campaign for them, and they presented themselves superbly. USA 1 (Dempsey 24) Brazil 2 (Love 20, Robinho 26) Attendance: 87,600 Man of the Match; Robinho Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
tenthreeleader Posted September 13, 2009 Share Posted September 13, 2009 Terrific run ... may you replace Bob Bradley! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreenxxGreg Posted September 14, 2009 Share Posted September 14, 2009 wow... just wow... Brazil's breaking American hearts in FM in addition to the real world now To be honest I was more pleased with the 2 nil victory over England than the final appearance ... So what's next? Gonna stay on for another 4 years? We'd happily take a manager of your quality at FC Dallas Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
mark wilson27 Posted September 14, 2009 Share Posted September 14, 2009 Great tournament Gav, can't really complain losing to the Brazilians, Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ScottleeSV Posted September 14, 2009 Share Posted September 14, 2009 Nice job. Really didn't expect that run to the final. Very interested to see you in a club rule tbh. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted September 15, 2009 Author Share Posted September 15, 2009 Thanks alot guys. Was awfully proud of the boys and hope we can continue to push on as a good side. As for the club side thing.... ***** Immediately after the World Cup I was offered the Sampdoria job. £22 million to spend and a £17k contract for four years. I turned it down of course! If I was going to take a job in club football, it certainly wouldn't be in Italy! Arturo Alvarez came second on the best player in the World Cup award, missing out to Fernando Torres and beating Kaka. We also moved up a whopping 8 places in the World Rankings to a healthy 7th place, finally breaking that top 10 spot once more. Landon Donovan came 3rd in the Golden Boot with 7, Torres winning with 9 and Balotelli second with 8. I also got a job offer from Fulham in the Premiership, but also turned it away. It's nice to know I'm in high demand now. As October rolled on, we moved up another place in the rankings thanks to Italy's poor qualifying performances. Squad for Brazil friendly: Goalkeepers; Tim Howard (Everton), Luis Robles (Chicago), Quentin Westberg (Lille) Left Backs; Cory Gibbs (Sporting), Marvell Wynne (Toronto) Right Backs; Sam Cronin (Toronto), Frank Simek (Sheffield Wednesday), Jonathan Spector (Blackburn) Centre Backs; Bakary Soumare (Le Mans), Oguchi Onyewu (Sevilla), Chad Marshall (Zenit), Jay DeMerit (Birmingham City) Left Midfield; DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Heath Pearce (Rostock), Corey Ashe (San Jose) Right Midfield; Arturo Alvarez (KV Mechelen), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Freddy Adu (Chelsea) Centre Midfield; Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca), Michael Bradley (Gladbach), Baggio Husidic (Chicago), Maurice Edu (Rangers) Strikers; Landon Donovan (Los Angeles), Michael Channell (Adelaide United), Eddie Johnson (Fulham), Jozy Altidore (River) ***** Wednesday 17th November - vs. Brazil, Almeidao Friendly USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Frank Simek DC; Oguchi Onyewu DC; Bakary Soumare AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Freddy Adu MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Michael Channell Subs; Luis Robles, Jonathan Spector, Sam Cronin, Jay DeMerit, Baggio Husidic, Clint Dempsey, Eddie Johnson, Arturo Alvarez, Corey Ashe In a replay of the World Cup final just gone, a slightly different side lined up against Brazil in Brazil. Brazil, as always, started the better side but Simek came to USA's rescue, putting in a finely timed tackle to stop Robinho from pulling the trigger in a dangerous place. It is Brazil who score first though, and its a real hash on Howard's part. He comes out for a loose ball, but he fails to clear it properly, and it falls to Robinho, who fires from distance into an empty goal. USA are sloppy and it almost costs when Robinho crosses to an unmarked Kaka, the midfielder failing to convert his free header. USA begin to come alive after the period of possession from Brazil, Wynne working wonders on the left to set up Torres, but his shot is poked just wide of goal. Brazil counter very quickly though, and an error from Onyweu sets up Vagner Love to repeat his habit of scoring against the USA, a finely placed shot from outside the area doubling the lead. USA reply almost straight away with an attack, Donovan failing to convert his free chance though. Half time can't come soon enough for the USA. Brazil start the half as they did the first, Alex putting a header just wide of Howard's goal. An early injury dampens the half, Channell being replaced with Dempsey. Alvarez also comes on for Beasley. USA struggle to get into the game though, constantly gifting possession away and failing to create any chances. Love almost scores a third for Brazil, Ramires playing him through, Onyewu just doing enough to put the striker off when he took his shot. Their best chance of the day follows when Alvarez sets up Donovan for a free header, but the chance is wasted when he misses his chance and it rolls out for a throw in. Juan then also misses his second header of the game, the ball flying just wide of Howard's nearest post. Howard gets forced into a fine leg save when Pato breaks through. It matters little though as the resultant corner from Eduardo finds Keirrisson, who powers home his header to put Donovan and Juan to shame. USA do however get their elusive goal just a minute from the end, a cross from Donovan finding Adu at the back post, the small man rising somehow above Maxwell to head home a good goal. Full time follows not long after, the Brazilians notching another victory over them. Brazil 3 (Robinho 11, Love 36, Keirrisson 87) USA 1 (Adu 91) Attendance: 44,963 Man of the Match; Vagner Love Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
gavrenwick Posted October 13, 2009 Author Share Posted October 13, 2009 Our group for the Gold Cup would consist of Guatemala, Panama and El Salvador. This is my squad for the tournament: | Pkd | Inf | Name | Club | Team | Caps | Goals | Yth Apps | Yth Gls| Value | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | GK | | Tim Howard | Everton | Main | 68 | - | - | - | £4.2M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | S1 | Wnt | Luis Robles | Chicago | Main | - | - | - | - | £220K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | - | Wnt | Quentin Westberg | Racing Club de Lens | Main | - | - | 21 | - | £525K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | DR | Wnt | Frank Simek | Sheff Wed | Main | 28 | - | - | - | £2.4M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | S2 | Wnt | Jonathan Spector | Everton | Main | 17 | - | - | - | £2.8M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | DL | Wnt | Marvell Wynne | Toronto FC | Main | 18 | 1 | 11 | - | £950K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | S3 | Wnt | Jay DeMerit | Birmingham | Main | 15 | - | - | - | £300K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | DC | Wnt | Oguchi Onyewu | Sevilla | Main | 71 | 6 | - | - | £2.7M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | DC | Wnt | Bakary Soumare | Le Mans Union Club 72 | Main | 13 | 1 | - | - | £3.5M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | - | Wnt | Heath Pearce | Rostock | Main | 30 | 1 | - | - | £250K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | MC | | José Francisco Torres | Pachuca | Main | 32 | 6 | 1 | - | £1.5M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | MC | Wnt | Michael Bradley | Gladbach | Main | 53 | 4 | 25 | 5 | £4.5M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | - | Wnt | Maurice Edu | Rangers | Main | 14 | - | - | - | £2.6M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | MR | Wnt | Freddy Adu | Chelsea | Main | 36 | 4 | 30 | 13 | £11M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | S5 | Wnt | Clint Dempsey | Fulham | Main | 72 | 21 | - | - | £2.4M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | ST | Wnt | Landon Donovan | Los Angeles | Main | 136 | 54 | - | - | £4.4M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | S6 | Wnt | Arturo Alvarez | KV Mechelen | Main | 7 | - | 20 | 2 | £575K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | ML | Wnt | DaMarcus Beasley | Rangers | Main | 107 | 18 | - | - | £2.4M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | S8 | Wnt | Baggio Husidic | Chicago | Main | - | - | - | - | £1.1M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | ST | Wnt | Michael Channell | Adelaide United | Main | 22 | 4 | 6 | 6 | £900K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | - | Wnt | Jared Jeffrey | Club Brugge | Main | - | - | 5 | 1 | £525K | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | - | Wnt | Jozy Altidore | Villarreal | Main | 18 | 2 | 22 | 16 | £10.5M | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| ***** Wednesday 1st June - vs. Panama, Aloha Stadium Gold Cup Group A - Match 1 USA Squad; GK; Tim Howard DL; Marvell Wynne DR; Frank Simek DC; Oguchi Onyewu DC; Bakary Soumare AML; DaMarcus Beasley AMR; Freddy Adu MC; Michael Bradley MC; Jose Francisco Torres ST; Landon Donovan ST; Jared Jeffrey Subs; Luis Robles, Jonathan Spector, Heath Pearce, Jozy Altidore, Baggio Husidic, Clint Dempsey, Arturo Alvarez In the first competitive game since the World Cup final, USA lined up against a comparitively lower side. Panama are tough, though. Panama started strongly, Blas Perez forcing a save from Howard with a low dipping volley. USA also have an early penalty shout turned away, Bradley adjudged to have gone down too easily, much to the midfielders chagrin. He is then booked for his protests. A great chance falls to Torres when Simek's ball finds him in the centre, but he can't turn quickly enough to pull the trigger. Donovan and Jeffrey combine splendidly together to set up the latter, the striker forcing Mejia into a sublime save with an audacious lob. Adu then has a good chance himself, cutting inside and hitting a nice low shot, but Mejia had it covered. An injury half hour in sets back USA, Dempsey replacing the injured Bradley. Jeffrey has another good chance just before half time, his effort sadly sailing wide at the wrong time. Some good play frm Donovan allows Dempsey the perfect chance, but he seems a little rusty after having just come on, and fires high and wide. Half time arrives, and despite being the better side, the scoreline is level. Jeffrey comes out for the second half like a man possessed, his solo run tearing up the Panamanian defence before he disappoints with a poor effort. Adu then has a freekick saved well by Mejia, Jeffrey following the rebound with a poor left footed volley. It seems Jack had enough, as he comes off after for Alvarez. Despite constant pressure for a goal, USA just cannot seem to knock the door down. Adu has a shot saved, and the defence somehow clear the rebound away from Beasley. Panama eventually create a chance of their own, De Leon's corner finding Brown unmarked, his header only just sailing wide of Howards far post. Donovan is the last man to make way, Altidore replacing him. Soumare is booked late on for a reckless challenge on the keeper during a corner. USA pile the pressure on, but just can;t get past Mejia, the keeper forced to save frm Adu and then Alvarez. No matter what they do, it just won't go in, and the whistle blows on a lacklustre attacking performance from the USA. Nothing like the performances they put in during the World Cup. USA 0 Panama 0 Attendance: 49,988 Man of the Match; Frank Simek Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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