USMNT vs JAMAICA: some thoughts

Before last Friday’s World Cup matchup against Jamaica, fans and media was questioning about how consistent USMNT's defense is. The US came into this game seeming vulnerable defensively after they allowed seven goals in a two games span. The performances of USMNT back line in the 1-2 away victory against Jamaica, although it is still far from perfect, were strong. Omar Gonzalez played like a first choice at center back and Matt Besler also did the same. DaMarcus Beasley emerged at the left back spot for now, while at right back the rising of Brad Evans made him the front runner for the job in a spot where there is Geoff Cameron too, a center back switched at right back at Stoke City. Plenty of doubts were raised over the recent efforts of center backs Gonzalez and Besler. After good performances both answered questions. Gonzalez was strong in the air while Besler was able reading the game bypassing some tough moments. Also, despite he weren't good with his distribution, Gonzalez was sure in his tackling against Jamaica forwards and made no mistake. On his side, Besler were everywhere playing a strong muscular game as well. On the flanks, Beasley had some troubles defending on the left, and he still has a lot to learn, but he made a good performance on the fullback spot and, as Jurgen Klinsmann said, the veteran is "locked in at that position". Evans improved in the second half and his goal marked the game. Just a few season ago, the idea of playing right back was not a good one to Evans. He's still learning as right back but he has the skills to handle the job. Evans seems to be the answer Klinsmann was looking for at right back as he seems able to produce there while Steve Cherundolo and Timothy Chandler seem not.