re: United States of F#ck Yeah v. Serbs | Bruce is Back Edition, 3pm CST (ESPN2)

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I would agree but late in this game he has had the ball at his feet in the role of creator and has not had any ideas.

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So, status quo then?

We didn't lose by 4. I'm happy

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We're playing an unmotivated 2nd string jetlagged serbia. I think we should have won this game

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We played a large majority of our second-third string. I'd say this result is fine.

January games are usually shitty. Looked a lot more structured and disciplined today, which is what you want to see

I dont mind a clean sheet, but I watched plenty of 50/50 balls not even attempted by our players. You can't tell me that's okay.

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Did they just arrive yesterday?

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They could have arrived 3 days ago and jet lag would be a factor.

I think it is clear that an emphasis was placed on structure and discipline. You have to sort and build those pillars before anything else. Of course, the USMNT should not have to be doing this during qualifying the year before the WC but that is precisely why Arena is at the helm now. The USMNT has no identity.

I like what I see. Serbia is a good squad, regardless of whether they are second team or so. And it is not like the USMNT was playing its A team either. This is the first time on the pitch with a new manager and some new players against a quality opponent.

Finishing is an issue that can be sorted out as time progresses. The midfield is better than I have seen for some time. I think it is time to retire Zusi from the USMNT. He struggled mightily in MLS last year and has declined in the league for two years now. I understand the exploration of him at RB because, now that his speed is gone, he can no longer make haste up and down the wing. Still, his lack of pace is an issue and the strongest aspect of his game, his ability to send in quality crosses, is negated. Thank him for his service and make way.

Marshall is the recipient of some good ribbing but he is under appreciated and under valued. He is a three time Defender of the Year in MLS and a major part of Seattle's success. He is more physical and imposing than his face gives off. He is 6'3", intelligent in his positioning, and very physically solid. Of course, he is not a first choice CB but he is quality, experienced depth. Villafana needs more looks and Rosenberry needs more looks in the future. Rosenberry is young and I think that he will use his camp sendoff as further motivation in his development. He reminds me of a Lichaj from several years ago.

Nagbe and Kljestan have technical skills that are sorely needed in the USMNT midfield. Lletget is another player that deserves more looks and an expanded role. Lletget's versatility is an asset as he can play centrally or on the wing.

An overall positive image in what is a new first step.

I feel like "change" is largely exaggerated. The only thing that looked markedly different in this match is that Feilhaber was on the field.

Some things were encouraging but I don't see how someone can take this as a big positive step.

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I feel like "change" is largely exaggerated. The only thing that looked markedly different in this match is that Feilhaber was on the field

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Really? That's all you noticed?

What about the 4-2-3-1?

What about Nagbe getting his first start?

What about Kljestan at 10?

What about Bradley as a true 6?

What about Villafana?

What about trying Zusi at FB?

What about maintaining possession better instead of playing on our heels for 75% of the game?

What about holding our own against a solid euro opponent instead of looking like disfunctional dog shite against some crappy CONCACAF team?

Yeah it's a January game so don't know what anyone was expecting. We kept a clean sheet with our 5th and 6th(?) choice CBs, an old man making his first appearance at RB for the team and a LB making his first appearance in god knows how long with a 37 year old midget in goal. We also had some flashes of good link up play but failed around the net and everyone looked like they knew what their role was. I'll take it.