Terry Sends USA Home with a Loss

The United States fell to a very determined England. John Terry was the caption despite his PK miss in the Champions League that costed Chelsea the loss for the UEFA Champions League . He and fellow teammate Steven Gerrard had the two goals for the England. This was the first loss for the U.S. in 2008, with this loss it broke a five-game undefeated streak. This was also the USA's first loss in four away matches which broke the streak of three consecutive away victories.

The U.S. was without their all time leading scorer, Landon Donovan, who was out due to a strained groin. He was one cap away from reaching 100 appearances, and without him the U.S. struggled to create dangerous chances against the defensive line of England. The United States back line did a very good job up until David Beckham put a free kick to the head of John Terry in the 38th minute to prevail England 1-0 lead. Terry headed it past what looked to be a slow reacting Howard. Beckham had many free kick to provide dangerous attacks against the U.S. defense. A few sparks of life came about for the USA a few minutes after the English goal as Eddie Johnson chipped a ball up to Micheal Bradley, but it was just shy of his head.

At half time the USA made two changes. The first was Brad Guzan for Tim Howard and replacing Steve Cherundolo with Frankie Hejduk. Right after half time the U.S. had its best chance yet as Pearce ran up the left flank, he than crossed it to Johnson for a one time volley that just missed the left side goal.

Defoe came right back and hit a hard shot, but Guzan made a great save to keep the USA's hopes alive. In the 59Th minute the dreams of a victory for the U.S. were shattered, as Steven Gerrard had a break away and slipped it right past Guzin for England's second goal.

A few chances came to the United States, but they were unable to put one in the back of the net. England knew they had the game well in hand, and kept the United States fighting till the end of the match.



Scoring:
ENG – John Terry (David Beckham) 38Th minute.
ENG – Steven Gerrard (Gareth Barry) 59.
Stats Summary
USA / ENG
Shots 9 / 16
Saves 3 / 2
Corner Kicks 5 / 4
Fouls 21 / 23
Offside 3 / 4

The Kicks Player of the Game: Brad Guzan(GK)
He surprised us the second half when he came in for Tim Howard and made great saves to keep the score only 2-0.