Buddle nets 2 as U.S. down Australia 3-1

U.S. National Team coach Bob Bradley has a problem.  The kind of problem any World Cup coach would love to have.  How does he sit Edson Buddle.  Buddle scored twice yesterday to lead the US to a 3-1 victory in a friendly over the 'Soccerroos."  His first goal was a brilliant run and a rocket strike that flew past the goalie to hit the upper right of the net.  His second was a run into the box unmarked that headed in a wonderful cross from U.S. defender Steve Cherundolo.  From ESPN: "I gave [Bradley] a bit of a headache probably, but it's a good headache," said Buddle. "I think it gives us confidence going into the first match."  No one tonight was concerned that Altidore was on the bench.  Though for the US to succeed, we need a healthy Altidore upfront.

The back four for the US was a little shaky at times and still have the problem of defending free kicks and corners.  Australian midfielder Cahill was left unmarked on a corner that he tapped home for Australia's only goal.  Overall the defense played well for the U.S.  But this is no England.  Wayne Rooney and the rest of the Three Lions will give the U.S. defense all it can take next Saturday.  They will be ready.

Robbie Finley played well upfront with Buddle.  Though missing an open net will haunt him.  Finley made a great run and move on the keeper, only to sail his shot wide right of an open net.  He played well for most of the game and tracked back repeatedly on defense to help out.  He had more good moments than bad.  Gomez came off the bench in the second half to add a third goal for the U.S. in stoppage time on a great pass from Landon Donovan.  Michael Bradley had another stellar performance in the midfield for the U.S. He did the dirty work on defense and helped to clog up the middle of the field for the defense.  He will have his hands full next week with Lampard and Company, but he is up for it and will shine.  Both U.S. goalkeepers, Howard and Hahnemann played very well.

This is clearly an attacking team built on speed.  If the U.S. is to succeed, it most score goals on the counterattack.  We are not going to win anything on defense.  But we can on offense.  The midfield will need to track back next week in the opener and help out.  Michael Bradley is our best defensive midfielder and can create a road block up the middle for the U.S.  When they get the ball, they need to get up fast and to Donovan and Dempsey to run at the English and look to cut across the field and find Altidore, Buddle, Gomez or Finley.  Bradley has a problem upfront.  Too many inform strikers, a problem that any coach right now would love to have. 

Until next time,
USA USA USA!