World Cup: England 1, USA 1

USA! USA! USA!

I went to Meg O'Malley's with a friend to watch the big World Cup match between frenemies, England and the U.S. The place was standing room only with folks in jerseys, waving flags, and with painted faces. There were a surpisingly large number of England fans there. Had I been able to find a seat, I would have happily watched the game in that raucous and lively atmosphere. Instead, we went down the street to a smaller pub.

I've really come to love and appreciate the game of soccer and look forward to the World Cup every four years. Other than the Olympics, there is no international sporting event of it's caliber. The only letdown to this World Cup is that my other favorite, Team Ireland, just missed qualifying for the competition.

So, back to yesterday's game..... I had predicted a 2-1 outcome in England's favor. However, we hung tough and scraped out a 1-1 draw with a more talented England squad.

I was impressed by the U.S. offense and the chances they generated. While the goal by Clint Dempsey should have been stopped by England's goalkeeper, no one is giving Dempsey any credit for the brilliant ball handling moves that allowed him an open shot in the first place. Our defense gives me some concern and I still don't know what to make of them yet. The first goal from England looked so easy, I figured the play must've already been whistled dead. If wasn't all bad though, as they settled down and played well enough the rest of the way to muzzle Rooney and company. Our goalie, Tim Howard, clearly earned man of the match and made a number of saves to preserve the tie.

I was definitely escaping more out of the Rooney-led England squad. I know what they are capable of, and I chalk the inconsistent showing yesterday to nerves.

There's another game on around 2...woo hoo!