February 24, 2010 THE LATE SHOW Kljestan's late goal lifts U.S. over Salvador
TAMPA -- The United States threw just about everything but the kitchen sink at El Salvador in its international friendly and its hard work paid off with a 2-1 victory at Raymond James Stadium Wednesday night.
Former Seton Hall standout Sacha Kljestan's goal two minutes into stoppage time broke a 1-1 deadlock and sent the U.S. home with a win before 21,737 rain-soaked spectators.
Kljestan stripped defender Marvin Gonzalez of the ball, did a quick give-and-go with Brian Ching, then rifled home the game-winner past goalkeeper Miguel Montes.
The Americans played with a purpose and urgency as most of the match was played in the El Salvadoran end of the field.
In the long run, the final score really didn't matter that much. Instead, the game gave U.S. coach Bob Bradley a chance to look at the domestic-based players who were on the bubble to earn a spot with the World Cup squad in the final home game prior to picking the 23-man roster.
The biggest battle was for a forward position next to Jozy Altidore. No one stood out head and shoulders over anyone else.
Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids) acquitted himself well during his first-half stint, although starter Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake) had an average match. Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), who starred at the University of South Florida here, took over for Findley in the 68th minute and did not distinguish himself.
El Salvador forward Rudis Corrales took advantage of a botched header by U.S. defender Brad Evans in the 59th minute. The ball went right to Corrales, who handily beat goalkeeper Nick Rimando. It was El Salvador's first shot since the fourth minute.
But Ching (Houston Dynamo) continued to solidify a spot on the team with a vintage header from six yards. Heath Pearce sent in a long, line drive cross from the left flank that Ching headed home past Montes to the near post.
Kljestan (Chivas USA), once considered a prime candidate to go to South Africa, had the best two scoring opportunities for the Americans in the first half. But Montes saved both of his attempts (31st and 40th minutes).
Former MetroStars midfielder Eddie Gaven had a superb chance to give the Americans the lead in the 89th minute as he raced in on goal. But his 12-yard shot somehow wound up wide left.
Before Bradley names his roster in May, he will have one more opportunity to watch the Americans, when they take on the Netherlands in Amsterdam Wednesday.
