Those in the USA Supporters / Sam's Army section in Richmond Sunday know this but I thought it was worthwhile to post here. The Kiwi keeper (Utting) was a great sport. After having a brilliant game squandered by an awful deflection on Kirovski's goal, Utting had the sportmanship to shrug off our taunts (Sheep shagger, etc.) and joke around with those of us behind his net during the game (I'm curious if any of this was caught on TV). After the game, in reference to New Zealand's play, Utting was quoted as saying "We still have this barrier to break of competing against the best in the world. Sometimes we stand back the first 20 minutes in awe." The implication being that the US is one of the best sides in the world. Something we all know, but nice to hear from an unbiased source. Kudos to Utting for a fine game and for being such a good sport! Oi!
We are among the best in the world. When we step up to play countries like Uruguay, Senegal, Sweeden, Austria, Wales, Ireland, and Mexico I fully expect a win and am dissapointed otherwise. No matter where its played. This is the qualification round where we beat Mexico at the Azteca. I also believe that if we had a good home advantage(ie - Mexico Qualy), we should be able to beat any country in the world. Also I think one of the announcers did mention what you were talking abotu in the 2nd half.