Player Ratings: U.S. Men’s National Team vs. Mexico

After each match the contributors to New England Soccer Today will rate the performances of the United States National Team players who made an appearance on a 1 to 10 scale (1 horrendous, 5 average, 10 perfection). This week Sean Donahue contributed ratings for the USA’s 1-1 draw with Mexico.

Tim Howard – 5
Nothing he could do on the first goal and Mexico didn’t threaten his net otherwise.

Steve Cherundolo – 6
Not 100% fit, but Cherundolo continues to show why he is so vital to the U.S. His runs forward continue to be a bright spot when the U.S. struggles to find openings in the attack. Would’ve expected more runs forward had his fitness been better.

Michael Orozco Fiscal – 4.5
Lucky to get away with early physical play, but settled as the match went on.

Carlos Bocanegra – 6.5
Did well leading a makeshift backline and limiting Mexico’s chances and had a good header on Donovan’s corner.

Edgar Castillo – 3
Sloppy giveaways and never looked comfortable defending. Bocanegra saved him on more than a few occasions.

Kyle Beckerman – 6
Did well playing just behind the defense. Constantly pressured Mexico’s midfielders when they crossed into the U.S. half.

Michael Bradley – 4.5
Had some nice distribution at times, but was pinned too far back to aid the attack most of the match and beaten on Mexico’s goal.

Jermaine Jones – 3.5
Failed to make an impact for the U.S. on either side of the ball. Looked a bit slow, possibly due to club play over the weekend.

Landon Donovan – 7
Worked hard in the first half, but couldn’t get much going in the attack. Was at his best in the second half running at defenders and really leading the charge offensively. Probably deserved a penalty kick as well.

Jose Torres – 4
Not sure he’s comfortable on the left, but he was rarely involved – offensively or defensively.

Edson Buddle – 5
Isolated up top, but actually did well to win some long balls sent his way and earn the U.S. a corner kick, leading to their first real chance. Can’t blame him for the tough situation he was put in.

(sub) Brek Shea – 7.5
Played a huge role in turning the game around off the bench. Extremely active and confident in the attack. Man of the Match.

(sub) Juan Agudelo – 6.5
A couple of scuffed shots, but was a huge spark to the offense and played a vital role in the U.S. goal.

(sub) Robbie Rogers – 6.5
Easy finish, but Rogers was a big part of the U.S. offensive spark in the second half, including his potential breakaway that should’ve earned Torrado a red card.

(sub) Ricardo Clark – 4
Didn’t add much off the bench outside of blowing a pair of good U.S. chances late in the game. Not sure what he brings to the team.

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