» 07.27.03 - Post Match Quote Sheet: U.S. 3, Costa Rica 2: U.S. Manager BRUCE ARENA
“I would like to applaud our team. We were a different team in the second half. They responded quite well and beat a very good team. I have to applaud our opponent. Steve Sampson and his team did a fantastic job, having to travel from Mexico City. It turned out to be a great game. We're hopeful we get an opportunity in November to play in a playoff game. Since I've been here, we've been in this tournament since 2000, and we've never lost to a CONCACAF team, so we'd like to have a chance in a playoff. ”

"The bottom line today is still that we need to give our young players opportunities to get games. You see today we were almost the U.S. U-23 team in some positions. Our inexperienced center backs got another game, so I thought it was good for us. When you come out of it with a victory, that's positive. We won four out of these five games. We won against Paraguay, so winning five of our last six games after the Confederations Cup is positive. We're doing fine, but we know we've got to get much better to be an improved team next year."

On why the U.S. struggled in the first half: "Fatigue, the fact that we used a lot of young players, and also it was a good team we played against. They were opportunistic on their opportunities in the first half. They had a great game plan. They pressed us in our own end, which surprised me a little bit because I thought they maybe would sit back and counter given the fact they had one day's less rest and had to travel. I don't think we adjusted well."

On his prediction for the Brazil v. Mexico final: "I think Brazil is the better team, but with the altitude it will be interesting. It's also challenging with the heat, humidity and smog they will encounter. If Brazil has their legs, they will be a handful for Mexico. However, if I was a betting man I'd bet on Mexico, simply because of the altitude."

U.S. forward and Chevrolet Man of the Match LANDON DONOVAN

On the team's play in the first half: "It was frustrating. I don't know what it was. I don't know if people weren't motivated or what. Bruce got into us a little bit at halftime - deservedly so - and we responded."

Describing his assist on Convey's game-winning goal: "First I wanted to get by my defender, and fortunately he fell down. After that, it was all Bobby's credit. He was deeper in our own six-yard box than I was when we started. He just made a sprint down the middle of the field. DaMarcus was also on the far side, which gave me two options. I picked Bobby, and he finished it very well."

U.S. midfielder BOBBY CONVEY

On what the team has learned in 2003: "I think we've learned how to come together as a team, especially after that tough game a few days ago. There's a lot of new guys who have gotten a lot more caps this year, and they feel much more confident playing with the national team. I think it was a great learning experience for everyone on the team to build up for the start of qualifying."

On scoring the game-winning goal, the his first of his international career: "It came at a great time, being the last game and the game-winning goal. It's a great feeling to finally get the first one, and hopefully more will come."

Describing the goal: "I had lost my guy in the box, and Kasey had come out and scooped the ball up right before my guy got to it. I just sprinted from our six-yard box, and Landon beat his guy, and I was running as hard as I could. DaMarcus had opened up some space for me on the right. It was great to see us all have legs there at the end of the game."

U.S. forward EARNIE STEWART

Describing his goal: "Vanney gave a great cross. Danny Califf was going to head it. I asked him to let it go, and in the end it's good he did. I hit it pretty well, and it went in the back of the net."

On the importance of the timing of his goal: "When you score, there is never a better time. I thought we played very bad the first half. The second half I thought we came out very well. Of course a goal always carries you a little bit further. I'm happy I could contribute, without a doubt."

On ending the tournament on a high note: "First place would have been even better, but this was reality playing the third place game. In the end, when you win this game it's game. It's a great way to end this tournament."

U.S. goalkeeper KASEY KELLER

"We had such a miserable first half. But I'm really happy with the way we responded in the second half. Earnie scored a fantastic goal, and we kept battling. We knew they were going to lose their legs and we couldn't. They started cheating a few guys forward looking to get the result, and we took advantage of it in the end."

Describing the game-winning goal: "It was nice when I got the ball off the free kick, and Landon sprinted out for me. I was able to find him, and he beat a couple guys and slipped Bobby in. Bobby did a great job putting it home." From USSoccer.com.

» 07.27.03 - Convey's First International Goal Pushes U.S. Past Costa Rica:
- Bobby Convey’s first career international goal pushes U.S. into third place
- Potential playoff still remains if Brazil defeats Mexico in tomorrow’s final
- USA finishes 2003 with 10-4-2 record, posting nine shutouts

MIAMI, Fla. (July 27, 2003) — Second half goals by Bobby Convey and Earnie Stewart erased a 2-1 deficit and gave the United States a 3-2 victory against Costa Rica and third place in the 2003 CONCACAF Gold Cup in the Orange Bowl on Saturday night. The United States still has a chance to earn the regional championship. A loss by Mexico to Brazil in tomorrow night’s final would set up a playoff at a date and venue to be determined.

“I would like to applaud our team. We were a different team in the second half,” said U.S. manager Bruce Arena. “They responded quite well and beat a very good team. I have to applaud our opponent. Steve Sampson and his Costa Rica team did a fantastic job, having to travel from Mexico City. It turned out to be a great game.”

The U.S. struggled to find its form in the first half, unable to find a rhythm in the passing game and falling behind 2-1 on defensive miscues and some unlucky bounces.

Despite the uneven effort, the USA’s best chances came off of early crosses from the flanks. Stewart had the first of several chances in the match in the ninth minute. He beat the goalkeeper to a ball at the top of the six-yard box and turned to fire a shot that was blocked by a defender.

In the 14th minute, the U.S. nearly gave up an early goal on an ill-conceived back pass by Carlos Bocanegra into the box. Forward Steven Bryce beat goalkeeper Kasey Keller to the ball, and only a sliding save from defender Danny Califf prevented the U.S. from going down an early goal.

Rolando Fonseca opened the scoring in the 24th minute to give Costa Rica a 1-0 lead. From outside the area, Walter Centeno played a hard pass into Steven Bryce, who played a well-timed dummy. Fonseca was able to make a fortuitous touch past Bocanegra and fired low shot past Kasey Keller into the right corner of the net.

The U.S. got an equalizer just five minutes later. A Costa Rica clearance of a U.S. corner went back to Greg Vanney, who played a looping ball past the far post to Chevrolet Man of the Match Donovan. Donovan, who beat the offside trap along with Bocanegra, deftly played a one-time backpass to Bocanegra at the top of the six-yard box. Bocanegra redirected a left-footed shot the far post, netting his fourth career international goal. With that tally, he became only the fourth U.S. defender to score four goals in one year. The last time a defender scored four goals in a year for the U.S. was Alexi Lalas in 1994. The other two defenders to do so are Marcelo Balboa and Thomas Dooley.

In the 39th minute, Costa Rica regained the lead. Bryce outpaced DaMarcus Beasley down the right side of the box and sent a low cross across the goalmouth. Keller was able to get a hand on the ball, but the rebound fell to Fonseca, who quickly turned and shot past a sliding Frankie Hejduk.

The U.S. came out energized in the second half, applying heavy pressure on the Costa Rican defense and pinning them in their own end for long stretches. The effort paid off in the 56th minute, as veteran forward Earnie Stewart would equalize.

A long, looping cross from Vanney found Stewart unmarked on the back post 12 yards from goal. With time to set up, Stewart unleashed a wicked volley to the upper left corner. The goal was Stewart’s second in 2003, and his 17th career international goal.

The heavy U.S. pressure continued, and a quick counter-attack would give the U.S. the lead in the 67th minute. After a free-kick by Walter Centeno was collected by Keller, he quickly found Landon Donovan on a breakout. Donovan turned defender Mauricio Wright before slotting a ball to Convey – who was making a run all the way from the U.S. penalty area – slicing behind the Costa Rican defense. Just one step inside the area, Convey tucked a curling, left-footed strike just inside the near post for his first career international goal.

This was the first time in 2003 that the U.S. has conceded two goals in consecutive matches. The last time he team had given up multiple goals in back-to-back games was May 19 and July 5 of 2002 vs. Holland and Portugal, respectively. The U.S. finishes its 2003 campaign with a 10-4-2 record, including nine shutouts.

- U.S. Men’s National Team Game Report -

Match-up: USA vs. Costa Rica
Date: July 26, 2003
Competition: CONCACAF Gold Cup Third Place Match
Venue: The Orange Bowl – Miami, Fla.
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
Weather: 78 degrees, mild

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
USA 1 2 0
Costa Rica 2 0 0

Scoring:
CRC - Rolando Fonseca 24th minute
USA - Carlos Bocanegra (Landon Donovan) 29’
CRC - Rolando Fonseca (Steven Bryce) 39’
USA - Earnie Stewart (Greg Vanney) 56’
USA - Bobby Convey (Landon Donovan) 67’

Lineups:
USA (4-4-2): 18-Kasey Keller (capt.); 2-Frankie Hejduk, 12-Danny Califf, 4-Carlos Bocanegra, 3-Greg Vanney; 13-Richard Mulrooney, 15-Bobby Convey (25-Pablo Mastroeni, 87’), 19-Steve Ralston (11-Clint Mathis, 70’), 17-DaMarcus Beasley (7-Eddie Lewis, 78’); 8-Earnie Stewart, 21-Landon Donovan
Subs not used: 24-Adin Brown, 10-Claudio Reyna,

CRC (3-5-2): 1-Alvaro Mesen; 3-Luis Marin (capt.), 19-Mauricio Wright, 20-Pablo Chinchilla; 4-Alexander Castro (16-Trey Bennett, 35’), 8-Mauricio Solis, 10-Walter Centeno, 17-Steven Bryce, 12-Leonardo Gonzalez (21-Winston Parks, 74’); 6-Wilmar Lopez (14-Erick Scott, 60’), 7-Rolando Fonseca
Subs not used: 23-Ricardo Gonzalez, 13-Daniel Vallejos, 22-Carlos Castro

Misconduct Summary:
CRC – Mauricio Wright (caution) 62nd minute
USA – Bobby Convey (caution) 70’
CRC – Winston Parks (caution) 76’
CRC – Luis Marin (caution) 77’

Officials:
Referee: Mr. Richard Piper (TRI)
Senior Assistant Referee: Mr. Anthony Garwood (JAM)
Junior Assistant Referee: Mr. Paul Messam (BAH)
Fourth Official: Mr. Carlos Batres (GUA)

Chevrolet Man of the Match: Landon Donovan From USSoccer.com.

» 07.26.03 - San Jose Head Coach Frank Yallop Ties Quakes Record With 35th Career Victory: SAN JOSE, CA (July 26, 2003) — The San Jose Earthquakes won their second straight game with a 3-0 victory over the Dallas Burn on Saturday night at Spartan Stadium. The Quakes dominated the game throughout, using first half goals from Brian Mullan and Manny Lagos and then a late penalty kick from Jeff Agoos to secure head coach Frank Yallop’s 35th career win, tying a San Jose club record.

San Jose took the lead 1-0 in the 25th minute on Brian Mullan’s fifth goal of the season. The goal marked the end of a 328-minute scoreless streak for the Quakes at Spartan Stadium following a corner kick from the left side by Agoos. The ball bounced around several players in the middle of the Dallas box as both teams struggled to control it. The Burn’s Brad Davis attempted to clear the ball, only to have the Quakes send it immediately back into the box. Dallas defender Ezra Hendrickson headed the ball away to the right side of the penalty area, where San Jose defender Chris Ronér gained control and sent a cross to an open Mullan, who knocked the ball into the open net for the 1-0 lead.

The Quakes extended their lead to 2-0 in the 37th minute on the second goal in as many games by Lagos. Agoos took a free kick on the right side of the field and launched it across the Dallas goal-mouth. An on-rushing Lagos beat his defender to the far post and headed the ball into the net for the two-goal advantage that the Quakes took into the half-time break.

Mullan nearly had his second goal of the game in the 63rd minute when he slid in front of the goal and connected with a well placed cross from the left side by Ramiro Corrales. Dallas goalkeeper D.J. Countess dove to his left and was able to come up with the big save to keep the Quakes lead at 2-0.

Earthquakes goalkeeper Pat Onstad maintained the San Jose shutout, his sixth of the season, in the 77th minute when he stonewalled Ronald Cerritos on a blast from close range from the right side.

Mullan nearly added another goal for San Jose in the 84th minute on a long-range drive from the right side that was snagged by Countess. Two minutes later Countess was called on again to knock down a wicked shot from inside the box by Corrales, and the Burn goalkeeper made another reflex save in the 89th minute when he gathered a sharp header from Jamil Walker following a cross from the right side by Mullan.

The Quakes extended the lead to 3-0 during stoppage time on a penalty kick by Agoos. Following some elusive dribbling by Walker along the right sideline, Dallas defender Chris Gbandi shoved the San Jose forward to the ground away from the ball inside the box, drawing the penalty. Agoos stepped up to take the kick and buried it into the right corner of the goal.

The Earthquakes have a week off for the MLS All-Star break before returning to action on Tuesday, August 5th against the A-League’s Seattle Sounders in the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in Seattle. The Quakes return to MLS play on Friday, August 8 at Kansas City at 5:00 p.m. PT. The game, which will feature the Western Division’s top two teams, will be broadcast live on Fox Sports Net and on radio at KABL 960. From SJEarthquakes.com.

» 07.23.03 - U.S. Falls to Brazil 2-1 in Sudden Death in Thrilling Gold Cup Semifinal in Miami: MIAMI, Fla.— In a thrilling CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal match on Wednesday evening at the Orange Bowl in Miami, the U.S. Men's National Team let a 1-0 lead in the second half slip away to a tenacious, attacking Brazilian squad, eventually losing 2-1 on a sudden-death penalty kick from Diego. The penalty kick was set-up in the 98th minute when U.S. defender Cory Gibbs was sent off for saving a goal-bound shot from Diego with his hand. Brazil had tied the match in the 89th minute on a goal from Kaka, after the U.S. had taken a 1-0 lead in the 62nd minute off the head of Carlos Bocanegra.

“Certainly fatigue was a factor tonight,” said U.S. manager Bruce Arena after the game. “We ran out of gas. Give Brazil credit, they are an excellent team with outstanding attacking players. But I give my team credit as well as we gave everything we had and just fell short.”

The match was played for long stretches at a kinetic pace, with Brazil eventually outshooting the U.S. 16-7. The winning goal was typical of some of the game’s goal-mouth action, with U.S. goalkeeper Kasey Keller coming off his line to stop a shot off his chest from Kaka. Unable to hold on to the rebound, the ball bounded forward to the Brazilian forward who knocked a pass to his left, past Keller, to Diego waiting unmarked for a chance to shoot on goal with only Gibbs in his way. Despite collecting the ball in an offside position, the flag stayed down and Gibbs was forced to swing his right arm into the path of Diego’s shot.

Referee Carlos Batres of Guatemala immediately showed Gibbs the red card, the first in his seven international appearances, and Diego took the ensuing penalty kick, cracking a shot straight down the center of the goal and past Keller, who had dove to his left.

The match marked the second meeting of the year for the U.S. and the five-time FIFA World Cup champions, and was the 11th overall defeat for the United States in 12 all-time meetings against Brazil. It was also the first overtime match between the two nations and the eighth straight USA-Brazil contest decided by one goal.

The U.S. got on the board first, with defender Carlos Bocanegra heading home his third international goal (and his third of 2003) on a perfectly served ball from midfielder Claudio Reyna about 45 yards from goal. On the goal, Bocanegra slid into the box unmarked and bounced his header downward from six yards out.

For Keller, the defeat ended a run of 22 games in which he had gone unbeaten on U.S. soil, having compiled an 18-0-4 record since February 1998.

"That’s the way it goes,” said the goalkeeper, whose personal and team shutout streak in the Gold Cup ended at 801 minutes. “It’s unfortunate (to lose), because I think we had them. We had four or five good chances to score, and they created a lot of chances too. I think the heat and the humidity were definitely a factor and by the last five minutes you could tell we were out of gas. It was a great game.”

On the tying goal, second-half substitute Ewerthon (who had entered the game just three minutes earlier) dribbled through the area, beating Gibbs with a nifty cutback move into the area and hitting a shot that Keller saved but couldn’t corral. As it did on the penalty kick call, the ball fell into a dangerous area, where Kaka was able to slot a shot into an empty net from close range with just one minute left on the clock.

In addition to the two goals, Brazil hit the woodwork twice, with both efforts coming from Kaka, who attacked from every angle throughout the match. In the 25th minute, the forward careened a shot off the base of the far right post from 20 yards, and then in the 75th minute he forced Keller into the save of the match, smashing a shot from 18 yards out that Keller impressively got a hand on, just enough to force the ball right and off the post.

Brazil also had a goal called back in the 60th minute, when a free kick from Maicon sailed into the box and dropped without being touch at the far post, where Brazil was whistled for offside as they slammed the ball into the net.

The match marked the third time that the two sides have faced off in a Gold Cup semifinal, and the second meeting between the two Top 10 sides in 2003. The U.S. is now 1-11 lifetime against Brazil, with the only victory coming in the 1998 Gold Cup semifinals.

- U.S. Men’s National Team Game Report -

Match-up: USA vs. Brazil
Date: July 23, 2003
Competition: CONCACAF Gold Cup Semifinal
Venue: The Orange Bowl – Miami, Fla.
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
Attendance: 35,211
Weather: 85 degrees and humid

Scoring Summary:
1 2 OT1 OT2 F
USA 0 1 0 - 1
Brazil 0 1 1 - 2

Scoring:
USA – Carlos Bocanegra (Claudio Reyna) 62nd minute
BRA – Kaka (Ewerthon) 89’
BRA – Diego (penalty kick) 100’.

Lineups:
USA (4-4-2): 18-Kasey Keller; 2-Frankie Hejduk, 4-Carlos Bocanegra, 6-Cory Gibbs, 15-Bobby Convey; 8-Earnie Stewart (17-DaMarcus Beasley, 83’), 25-Pablo Mastroeni, 10-Claudio Reyna (capt.) (13-Richard Mulrooney, 71’), 7-Eddie Lewis; 21-Landon Donovan, 20-Brian McBride (11-Clint Mathis, 30’)
Subs not used: 24-Adin Brown, 3-Greg Vanney, 19-Steve Ralston

BRA (4-2-2-2): 1-Gomes; 2-Maicon, 3-Luisao, 4-Alex, 5-Adriano, 6-Paulo Almeida (9-Ewerthon, 86’), 7-Julio Baptista, 8-Kaka (capt.), 10-Diego, 11-Robinho (17-Carlos Alberto, 75’), 15-Nilmar (16-Nadson, 81’)
Subs not used: 12-Negri, 13-Coelho, 14-Andre Bahia, 18-Thiago Motta

Stats Summary:
USA BRA
Shots 7 16
Saves 7 5
Corner Kicks 2 6
Fouls 16 15
Offside 2 5

Misconduct Summary:
USA – Claudio Reyna (caution) 7th minute
BRA – Nilmar (caution) 16’
USA – Pablo Mastroeni (caution) 41’
BRA – Adriano (caution) 61’
BRA – Maicon (caution) 65’
BRA – Carlos Alberto (caution) 78’
USA – Carlos Bocanegra (caution) 85’
USA – Cory Gibbs (ejection) 98’

Officials:
Referee: Mr. Carlos Batres (GUA)
Senior Assistant Referee: Mr. Vladimir Bertiaga (PAN)
Junior Assistant Referee: Mr. Paul Messam (BAH)
Fourth Official: Mr. Jose B. Pineda (HON)

Chevrolet Man of the Match: Claudio Reyna From USSoccer.com.

» 07.19.03 - EARTHQUAKES DOWN D.C. UNITED 2-1 TO REMAIN IN FIRST PLACE IN WESTERN CONFERENCE: WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 19, 2003) — The San Jose Earthquakes remained in first place in the Western Conference with a 2-1 win over D.C. United Saturday at R.F.K. Stadium. The Quakes (7-3-6, 27 points) rallied from a 1-0 deficit with a first half goal from Chris Ronér and then secured the win with a goal by Manny Lagos in the 54th minute, giving the Earthquakes the 100th win in club history.

D.C. United (4-6-6, 18 points) started the scoring in the 13th minute on a goal by Ali Curtis. United launched a quick attack up the right side of the field following a free kick by the Quakes Jeff Agoos. D.C. forward Hristo Soitchkov launched a pass from the right side of the midfield behind the San Jose defense to a streaking Curtis. The D.C. forward ran onto the ball and entered the box alone with San Jose goalkeeper Pat Onstad before sending the ball into the net with a shot to the far post.

The Earthquakes had several opportunities to tie the match following the goal, the best chance coming when Ramiro Corrales fired a wicked blast from 30-yards away that just barely sailed over the crossbar.

D.C. responded quickly, however, as Onstad was forced to make a difficult diving save on a Curtis header just three minutes later. D.C. midfielder Santino Quaranta sent a cross into the middle of the San Jose box from the right, where it found an unmarked Curtis, whose header from about eight-yards out was gathered by Onstad.

The Earthquakes tied the match in the 38th minute on Chris Ronér’s second goal of the season. Agoos launched a San Jose corner kick from the left side across the middle of the penalty area, where the ball deflected off a United defender and Craig Waibel to an open Ronér on the far post. Ronér settled the ball and sent it past a sprawling Rimando to tie the game at 1-1.

Following the goal, the Earthquakes began to control the match, opening up holes in the United defense with crisp passing. Rimando prevented the Quakes from taking a larger lead into halftime, as the D.C. goalkeeper dove to stop an open Brian Mullan shot from the right side in the 43rd minute, and then slid and stopped Corrales from six-yards out a minute later after the Quakes midfielder received an fine pass from Ching. The Earthquakes had another chance to take the lead in the 45th minute when Ronér found himself open with the ball on the right side of the D.C. box, but Rimando stymied the Quakes once again.

The Earthquakes finally beat Rimando and took the lead in the 54th minute when Lagos topped off a San Jose attack with a blast into an open net. Agoos started the play with a long ball out of the Earthquakes end of the field to Ching. Ching beat a D.C. defender to the ball just past midfield, and then dribbled up the right side of the field into the United penalty area. Ching got past another defender and then drew Rimando out of his net in an attempt to stop him. Ching sent a low pass to an open Lagos in front of the D.C. goal, who powered in a shot for the 2-1 lead.

United had its best chance to tie the game thwarted by Earthquakes rookie Jamil Walker. Just a minute after Walker entered the game, Galin Ivanov headed a D.C. corner kick over Onstad and toward the goal. An alert Walker managed to leap and head the ball off the goal line out of danger. D.C. United and the Quakes both had several chances to score in the games final 20 minutes, but Rimando and Onstad proved to be too tough to beat.

The Earthquakes return home to face the Dallas Burn at Spartan Stadium on July 26 at 7:00 p.m. PT on Hispanic Heritage Day, sponsored by Budweiser. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN2. From SJEarthquakes.com.

» 07.19.03 - Post-Match Quote Sheet: U.S. Men vs. Cuba: U.S. Manager BRUCE ARENA

“Obviously we’re very pleased with the result today. “Getting the early goal was a big part of the game, because I thought Cuba did a good job in having their team organized and making it difficult for us in the early going. Having three goals in the first half certainly made the second half a lot easier, especially with Cuba playing a man down."

On the play of Landon Donovan:
"Clearly, Landon Donovan’s performance speaks for itself. He did an outstanding job of working to get in front of the goal, and getting on the end of some of these serves. I guess Eddie Lewis served three of those. It was a good performance by a number of players."

On the play of Eddie Lewis with the MNT over the last year:
"I don't think it’s just the last year. The only reason his performance tailed off a bit was due to the years at Fulham when he didn't play. When he played with us during his MLS years, it was pretty obvious he was a good player, and he's just gotten better and better. Obviously getting back into the full swing of things at Preston last year really helped him. He had a pretty good World Cup as well."

On whether Steve Ralston’s' performance in the Gold Cup has improved his standing with the MNT:
"I don't think he's hurt it at all. He's done very well. I think this has been a good setting to bring Steve back into the team. Playing at home, I think his comfort level is pretty good. It's given him the kind of confidence you need to perform up to your capabilities. In the past, Steve has not been as at ease as he's been in this environment, so it's been a real plus for him."

On inserting Danny Califf into today's lineup in place of Carlos Bocanegra:
"We've rotated five players in four spots throughout the tournament. We did in that in the Confederations Cup as well. A big part of these last two competitions has just been looking at a number of players who can play in those positions. In the 2002 World Cup we had a number of veteran players in those positions like Tony Sanneh, Eddie Pope, Jeff Agoos, etc. We need to look at some younger players, so our young guys - in particular, Bocanegra, Califf and Gibbs - have been given a chance to play in these competitions to get they kind of experience they need. For the most part, they have done pretty well."

U.S. forward and Chevrolet Man of the Match LANDON DONOVAN:

On today's goalscoring performance:
"It was just one of those days. I've not scored a lot lately, and it gets a little bit frustrating. Getting the first one with Brian just tapping it to me made things a lot easier. From there, I was just in the right spot a lot of times. Hopefully I get back to that."

On which was his favorite goal:
"Probably the second one. It was a half-volley, and after I opened my eyes and saw it went in I was pretty excited."

On whether the first two games were difficult to play:
"With the teams we've been playing, for the most part they have sat back and tried to defend. So, it's a difficult game for me to get involved in because I don't have a lot of space to play. It's more suited to guys like Brian or someone like Taylor Twellman. Guys like Eddie Lewis and Steve Ralston were getting serves in the box, and today I was fortunate to get in there. I figured if they were getting in there and scoring goals, maybe I could too."

On the play of Eddie Lewis and Steve Ralston:
"Eddie and Steve both are phenomenal servers of the ball, probably the two best I've ever been involved with. As a forward you try and get in those positions to score, and a lot of times you make the runs and the service doesn't come. It seems like every time we've made the right run, they have put it on our head."

U.S. forward BRIAN McBRIDE

"I think we had the right attitude coming out. They showed early on that they weren't going to sit back, and it was important for us to try and attack early. As soon as it started to open up a bit, we created a lot of chances. It was a great day for Landon. The service from this team has been unbelievable."

On the service of Eddie Lewis and Steve Ralston:
"The service has been great. It seems like Steve has challenged Eddie. I know they didn't do it verbally. Eddie Lewis served some great balls in today, and so did Steve. What it does is cause the other team to have to worry about runs outside, and it allows us to start passing the ball through the middle."

U.S. midfielder EDDIE LEWIS

"I think we're playing better each game. Although we've played teams we felt we should be beating, we've managed to get better. Now the tournament definitely steps up a level."

On the successful finishing today:
"It was definitely one of those days. I thought last game I had a few good crosses that didn't quite get finished. Sometimes it just works like that. Today it seemed like they were putting away everything I threw in the box. It's really just my job to get it in there, and it makes everybody look good when they bury them."

U.S. midfielder STEVE RALSTON

On having a breakthrough performance in the Gold Cup:
"It feels great, especially being at home and having the support of the crowd behind me. I'm just trying to do what I'm told. I'm trying to get to the back post. I got there twice tonight, and had a great chance to score early in the game and missed. The second time I was fortunate to get it on goal and past the 'keeper."

On why it has taken him so long to get a spot with the national team:
"I'm not sure. I feel like I'm playing as well as I've ever played before. Maybe in years past I was a little timid out there, and wasn't playing the way I was capable of playing. I was scared to do the things I do well, like go at guys. I was afraid to lose the ball. Now I'm just playing the way I normally play. I'm not the youngest guy in the world, and it's pretty much now or never. I hope I can continue to play with this team throughout the Gold Cup and into qualifying for the next World Cup." From USSoccer.com.

» 07.19.03 - Donovan's Record-Tying Four Goals Lead U.S. to Gold Cup Semifinals with 5-0 Win Over Cuba: FOXBORO, Mass. (Saturday, July 19, 2003) — U.S. forward Landon Donovan unloaded for four goals and Eddie Lewis delivered three assists as the U.S. pounded Cuba 5-0 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass. Extending its unbeaten run to 11 matches in Gold Cup play, the USA advanced to the semifinal round where they will face either Colombia or Brazil on July 23 at 8 p.m. ET in Miami.

“Obviously we’re very pleased with the result today, said U.S. Manager Bruce Arena, who improved his record to 8-0-2 lifetime in Gold Cup action. “Getting the early goal was a big part of the game, because I thought Cuba did a good job in having their team organized and making it difficult for us in the early going. Having three goals in the first half certainly made the second half a lot easier, especially with Cuba playing a man down. Clearly, Landon Donovan’s performance speaks for itself. We are looking forward to the game on Wednesday.”

As in its first two matches, the U.S. assumed control of possession from the opening whistle. With Eddie Lewis and Steve Ralston finding space on the flanks, the U.S. created several early chances, with the first decent opportunity coming in the 7th minute. Frankie Hejduk made a trademark foray down the right side, sending a low cross through the penalty area. Brian McBride had made a near-post run, but his first-time effort was blocked by a sliding Cuban defender.

The U.S. had a great chance to get on the scoreboard in the 16th minute. Danny Califf, making his second start in the Gold Cup, sent a long through ball over the Cuban defense to Donovan, who had made a clever run through the midfield. Cuban goalkeeper Odelin Molina charged to the top of the area, but Donovan was first to the ball. His first touch past Molina had a bit too much bite, Donovan unable to catch up before the ball crossed the endline.

However, the U.S. attack would not be denied, and Donovan would eventually unlock the Cuban defense. A quick combination between Greg Vanney and Eddie Lewis sprung Brian McBride into the Cuban penalty area. With Donovan joining the attack and the Cubans facing a two-on-one, McBride calmly slotted a pass to a wide-open Donovan on the back past. The U.S. striker made no mistake, giving the USA a 1-0 lead in the 22nd minute.

The U.S. doubled the lead four minutes later, with Eddie Lewis again starting the play. After a nice series of passes, Lewis whipped a cross to the back post through a crowded penalty area. Steve Ralston passed up a heading opportunity, allowing Donovan a first-time volley that barreled into the back of the net. The goal ensured Donovan's second career multi-goal performance, the first coming March 2, 2002, in a 4-0 U.S. win against Honduras in Seattle.

Another solid U.S. buildup led to the USA’s third goal. A through ball down the left flank sent Lewis hustling to keep the ball on the field. He managed to send a curling ball into the six yard box, where Ralston beat his man to the mark. Molina could only get a piece of Ralston’s diving header, who increased his scoring total to two goals and three assists in six appearances for the MNT this year.

The Cuban team’s fate was sealed in the 43rd minute, when defender Reizander Fernandez was sent off for a high tackle on Pablo Mastroeni. The half concluded without a single shot on goal from the Cuban attack.

Donovan collected his hat trick ten minutes on the other side of halftime. Heavy U.S. defensive pressure led to a steal by Eddie Lewis, who played an early cross across the box. Donovan slipped in front of Molina to redirect the ball inside the right post.

Donovan would seal his place in the U.S. record books in the 76th minute. With Clint Mathis and Greg Vanney standing over a free kick on the left side of the Cuban goal, Vanney hopped over the ball and Mathis playing him a quick through ball. Through a maze of bodies, Vanney’s cross found Donovan, who made no mistake in recording his fourth goal of the afternoon. Donovan became the fourth player in MNT history to record four goals, the last coming off the foot of Joe-Max Moore in the USA’s 7-0 win against El Salvador on Dec. 5, 1993 in Los Angeles.

U.S. goalkeeper Kasey Keller eased his way into the history books, not facing a single shot on goal on the way to his seventh consecutive shutout for the U.S. in Gold Cup play. With 33 career shutouts, Keller set the all-time U.S. mark for clean sheets, and is now just two shy of Tony Meola’s record for victories (37). Keller has not surrendered a goal for the United States since a 2-0 loss to Holland on May 19, 2002, a string of five matches and 469 minutes.

The U.S. will resume defense of their title in a semifinal Wednesday in Miami, with their opponent to be determined by the result of the quarterfinal between Brazil and Colombia later tonight. Kickoff for the semifinal is set for 8 p.m. ET, and the match will be broadcast live on Galavision. Colombia was the last team to eliminate the U.S. in Gold Cup play, advancing on PKs in the 2000 tournament. Brazil is the last team to score on the U.S. in any competition, their 1-0 victory against the U.S. in the Confederations Cup in June followed by five consecutive shutouts by the U.S. defense.

- U.S. Men’s National Team Game Report -

Match-up: United States Men's National Team vs. Cuba
Date: July 19, 2003
Competition: CONCACAF Gold Cup Quarterfinal
Venue: Gillette Stadium – Foxboro, Mass.
Kickoff: 3 p.m. ET
Attendance: 15,627
Weather: 79 degrees, sunny

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
United States 3 2 5
Cuba 0 0 0

Scoring:
USA- Landon Donovan (Brian McBride) 22nd minute
USA- Landon Donovan (Eddie Lewis) 26’
USA- Steve Ralston (Eddie Lewis) 42’
USA- Landon Donovan (Eddie Lewis) 55’
USA- Landon Donovan (Greg Vanney) 76’

Lineups:
USA (4-4-2): 18-Kasey Keller; 2-Frankie Hejduk, 12-Danny Califf, 4-Cory Gibbs, 3-Greg Vanney; 19-Steve Ralston, 25-Pablo Mastroeni (13-Richard Mulrooney, 46’), 10-Claudio Reyna (capt.) (8-Earnie Stewart, 46), 7-Eddie Lewis; 21-Landon Donovan, 20-Brian McBride (11-Clint Mathis, 46’)
Subs not used: 24-Adin Brown, 4-Carlos Bocanegra, 15-Bobby Convey, 17-DaMarcus Beasley

CUB (4-4-2): 1-Odelin Molina (capt.); 16-Reizander Perez, 5-Alexander Cruzata, 4-Silvio Minoso, 3-Jeniel Marquez; 2-Nayuri Rivero (18-Alain Cervantes, 46’), 17-Pedro Adriani Faife, 7-Jorge Ramirez, 10-Lester More (6-Livan Perez, 46’); 9-Lazaro Dacourt (15-Lazaro Ruiz, 69’) 13-Maikel Castaneda
Subs not used: 12-Alexis Reve, 8-Eduardo Morales, 11-Rene Infante, 14-Jaime Colome

Stats Summary: USA CUB
Shots 14 2
Saves 0 4
Corner Kicks 5 1
Fouls 7 15
Offsides 3 1

Misconduct Summary:
CUB – Reizander Fernandez (ejection) 43rd minute
USA Danny Califf (caution) 49’
CUB Pedro Adriani Faife (caution) 75’

Referee: Mr. Peter Prendergast (JAM)
Senior Assistant Referee: Mr. Michael Mitchell (JAM)
Junior Assistant Referee: Mr. Michael Ragoonath (TRI)
Fourth Official: Mr. Benito Archundia (MEX)

Chevrolet Man of the Match: Landon Donovan From USSoccer.com.

» 07.18.03 - EARTHQUAKES LOOKING FOR GOALS: SAN JOSE, CA (July 11, 2003) - After struggling to find the net in the last two games, the Earthquakes have their work cut out for them this weekend as they take on D.C. United Saturday afternoon at RFK Stadium. The game kicks off at 1:00 p.m. PT and fans can catch the game on ESPN2 or on radio on Talk 910 AM KNEW.

D.C. boasts one of the top defenses in the league, allowing just 18 goals this season, led by goalkeeper Nick Rimando. The United goalkeeper posts the league’s third-best GAA (1.14) and is tied with Quakes goalkeeper Pat Onstad for the league’s most shutouts (5).

Therefore, if the Quakes hope to pick up three points, they are going to need a strong offensive push reminiscent of the one they showed in their four-goal attack against the MetroStars on July 2, while maintaining a tough defense.

"This is a game that we need to win,” defender Jeff Agoos said. “We obviously wanted to get those points at home [against the Colorado Rapids last Saturday], and we are coming in here expecting to win."

In an attempt to create some havoc around the goal, head coach Frank Yallop indicated in his weekly conversation that he would partner Manny Lagos with Brian Ching at the front of the San Jose attack, while placing Brian Mullan at the wing. Two years ago in D.C., Lagos was the hero, scoring two goals including the game-winner in the last minute of a 3-2 Quakes win. Ian Russell, recovering from a groin injury, is expected to be available as a substitution.

The players on the San Jose offense will have to contribute top performances, as Earthquakes Landon Donovan and Richard Mulrooney will be unavailable due to national team duty with the U.S. National Team in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Pepsi Best XI midfielder Ronnie Ekelund, whose wife Claire gave birth to their second child late Wednesday night, will also be unavailable. Ekelund was already nursing a sprained left ankle.

Defensively, former D.C. United player Jeff Agoos and the San Jose backline will have to keep an eye on Hristo Stoitchkov, who assisted on both goals in D.C United’s 2-1 win over the Chicago Fire last Saturday, as well as team assists leader Ben Olsen. D.C. United will be without Earnie Stewart and Bobby Convey who are with the U.S. National Team for the Gold Cup. United midfielder Dema Kovalenko will be serving a red card suspension

"We know that D.C. has some players that are dangerous,” head coach Frank Yallop said. “But we think that we can get after them. We are going to pressure them from the beginning."

The bench will be thin, but rookie forward Roger Levesque, who made his debut last weekend, will be available to help the offense if necessary. Jamil Walker and Ian Russell will also be options off the bench for Yallop.

Above all, San Jose, who come into the match with a three game unbeaten streak on the road, will have to put last Saturday’s disappointing 2-0 loss to Colorado at home behind them.

"Last week's game was an embarrassment for me, and I hope for our whole team,” Lagos said. “We need to go out and make up for that game, we need to play the way we know that we can."

"We can't let that game bother us,” Yallop added. “We are still in good shape, and we need to get our confidence back in our finishing. I think that once we do that, we will be okay."

The last time the two teams met, D.C. United sent four balls into the net past San Jose goalkeeper Jon Conway to secure a 4-2 win on August 31, 2002. The United goals came from Bobby Convey, Ryan Nelsen, Eddie Pope, and Peter Villegas, while both Earthquakes goals came from Landon Donovan.

As has been the story with San Jose most of the year, this game will come down to whichever defense is left standing. D.C. United will have their hands full trying to get through one of the league’s best backfields and then putting pressure on Onstad, who has returned from national team duty with Canada in the Gold Cup. On the other end, the Lagos/Ching combination in front of the Earthquakes charge will have to keep the strong United backfield on their toes and send the ball past Rimando.

Quakes Notebook
A win on the road would give the Earthquakes its 100th club victory.

The Earthquakes made club history on July 12th when rookies Arturo Alvarez, Todd Dunivant, Roger Levesque, and Jamil Walker shared the field against the Colorado Rapids at Spartan Stadium. It was the first time four San Jose rookies have played on the field at the same time.

Statistically, the Earthquakes and D.C. United are evenly matched. This season, San Jose has scored 20 goals, while D.C. United has netted 19. On the other end, the Quakes have allowed 19 goals, whereas D.C. United has allowed only 18. From SJEarthquakes.com.

» 07.18.03 - U.S. To Face Cuba in Gold Cup Quarterfinals: FOXBORO, Mass. (July 16, 2003) - The United States will face Cuba for the second-consecutive Gold Cup tournament when they meet in the quarterfinals of the 2003 Gold Cup on July 19 in Foxboro, Mass. Kickoff at Gillette Stadium is set for 3 p.m. ET, and the match will be broadcast live on Univision. Fans can also follow the match on ussoccer.com's MatchTracker, presented by Philips Electronics.

For all the latest updated results, standings, news and information, log onto to the Gold Cup section at ussoccer.com.

"We're looking forward to the opportunity of playing against Cuba in the quarterfinals," said U.S. Manager Bruce Arena. "Cuba played very well against us last year, and have proven to be a difficult opponent. Our team will certainly come prepared to play Saturday."

Costa Rica defeated Cuba 3-0 in the final match of Group D play earlier this evening. A full volley blast from Walter Centeno seconds into first-half stoppage time gave Costa Rica the early lead, and goals by substitutes Steve Bryce and Erick Scott sealed the Ticos place as the top team in the group. All three teams finished with three points, with Cuba edging past Canada for second place based on goals for (2). Costa Rica will face the winner of the El Salvador vs. Martinique match to be played later this evening.

The United States met Cuba in last year's Gold Cup, winning 1-0 in the second match of Group A. Brian McBride scored from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute to improve the USA's all-time record against Cuba to 3-1-1, and ensuring their advancement to the quarterfinals.

Should the U.S. advance, the semifinals are being played in Miami on July 23 and Mexico City on July 24, with the championship final scheduled for July 27 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. From USSoccer.com.

» 07.15.03 - McBride Scores Two as U.S. Tops Martinique to Advance in Gold Cup: - Keller’s sixth-straight Gold Cup shutout ties him with Meola on the all-time list with 32
- USA is now 16-0-0 lifetime in Gold Cup group play
- USA will play quarterfinal July 19 at 3 p.m. ET in Foxboro; opponent to be determined Wednesday

FOXBORO, Mass. (July 14, 2003) — A pair of Brian McBride goals on a pair of Steve Ralston assists clinched the top spot in Group C for the U.S. Men’s National Team with a 2-0 win over Martinique in the 2003 CONCACAF Gold Cup at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass on Monday night. The U.S. remains a perfect 16-0-0 all-time in Gold Cup group play and will next take the field in a quarterfinal match at the same site this Saturday, July 19, at 3 p.m. ET vs. the second-place team in Group D.

Three U.S. players reached career milestones during the match as goalkeeper Kasey Keller tied Tony Meola with the most shutouts, 32 – including six-straight in Gold Cup play dating back to Jan. 21, 2002. Also, with his first goal of the night Brian McBride moved into sole possession of third place on the U.S.’s all-time scoring list, passing Bruce Murray. The Columbus Crew forward now has 23 goals and is one away from tying Joe-Max Moore for second place. Also, defender Frankie Hejduk made his 50th appearance with the team.

The U.S., rated the top team in the region by the FIFA World Rankings, controlled play for the majority of the match. They allowed Martinique just two shots – both saved by Keller – and one corner kick, while creating 12 shots and 11 corners of their own.

The goals for the U.S. came close together, in the 39th and 43rd minute as Ralston – a late addition to the U.S. roster – found McBride, the Chevrolet Man of the Match, for the second and third time in this tournament, respectively.

“Obviously Brian McBride was the star of match with his two goals. Steve Ralston also did extremely well with his service,” said U.S. manager Bruce Arena, whose team has not allowed a goal in the last 428 minutes. “We were a bit sloppy in the second half, I think due to the physicality of the game, a lack of sharpness and a little bit of fatigue. We’ve been through this before, and the objective is just to get through to the next round. We are just happy to be in a position to be playing on Saturday in the quarterfinals.”

After quietly possessing for the first 18 minutes of the game, the U.S. had two solid scoring chances as Bobby Convey and Eddie Lewis worked on the overlap down the left side to win a pair of corners for the U.S. In the 19th minute, Lewis won a corner and took it himself, sending the ball to Ralston, who headed it over the crossbar from about 12 yards out. Three minutes later, Convey won a corner that was sent in to Carlos Bocanegra, who was making a near post run as he connected with a diving header that was cleared just outside the post by a defender.

The U.S. thought it had taken a 1-0 lead in the 24th minute, when Landon Donovan won a ball at the top of the Martinique penalty box. He easily dribbled in and finish a low shot far post, but before the celebration ensued the referee called the play back, ruling that Donovan had fouled the defender when he took the ball away.

The U.S. continued to control the pace and would get another chance in the 36th minute. McBride cleared the Martinique back line on the left side of the U.S. attack, and dropped the ball to Donovan who ripped a shot from the top of the box that was blocked by a defender before it got on frame.

Three minutes later, the U.S. possession finally paid off. Bocanegra switched the ball to the right side at midfield to Hejduk. He played the ball down the line to Ralston. About 35 yards from the end line, Ralston played a combination with Richard Mulrooney that freed Ralston him deep on the right side. He then drilled a low cross that found McBride streaking to the near post. McBride then moved himself into sole possession of third-place on the U.S. scoring list with a far post header that gave Eddy Heurlie no chance to make the save as the U.S. went up 1-0.

The U.S. padded its lead with Ralston and McBride hooking up for the third time in the 2003 Gold Cup. A long cross from the left found Ralston on the far side of the 18-yard box. Ralston waited to draw a defender before toe-poking the ball to McBride, who finished with his right foot near-post from about the same spot he scored his first goal of the match.

McBride, already with eight career Gold Cup goals to his credit, almost notched a first-half hat trick in stoppage time. Lewis found space on the left side and slid a cross on the ground to McBride at the far post. Eddy Heurlie made the sliding save on the point-blank strike.

The second half was much of the same story, with the U.S. controlling the majority of play and creating periodic chances. The U.S., although not able to build on the 2-0 lead, also held Martinique off the board.

Lewis created a chance for the U.S. in the 49th minute as he took advantage of space on the left side. On a slow break out, the lefty found Donovan in the middle of the box for a header that sailed high over the crossbar. Six minutes later, Lewis was at it again, taking space on the left side. This time he dribbled in and shot far post on the ground. The shot was deflected by a defender before Heurlie made a diving stop.

One minute later, the U.S. surrendered the best chance of the match and the first shot to Martinique. Jose Gorden forced Convey off the ball at about 40 yards from goal. Gorden, in alone until Convey caught up to him at the top of the box, took a shot from 18-yards out that Keller sent over the bar with a reaction save.

The action slowed for the next 20 minutes, as the U.S. managed just two shots. The first came in the 66th by Richard Mulrooney after a quick restart by Earnie Stewart, who came on for Claudio Reyna at halftime.In the 76th minute, Ralston sent another dangerous cross from the right which Donovan sent over the bar with his head.

The best U.S. shot of the second half came in the 85th minute on a set piece. Stewart took the restart from far in the left corner, and the ball was punched out by Heurlie to Hejduk about 25 yards from frame. Hejduk then blasted a dipping shot over the traffic inside the box that was saved by a back-pedaling Heurlie.

In the 89th minute, Yann Girier-Dufournier was sent off for Martinique after picking up his second caution of the match with a hard foul on Donovan at the top of the penalty box. Stewart took the ensuing set piece but drilled a low shot off the five-man wall.

Martinique recorded on final shot in the second minute of extra time, as Miguel Duragrin took a low, turnaround shot from the top of the box that Keller saved with a dive to his right.

The U.S. advances to the quarterfinal round which will take place July 19 at 3 p.m. ET in Foxboro. Cuba topped Canada 2-0 today, leaving Group D wide open with multiple scenarios and tiebreakers coming into play.

- U.S. Men’s National Team Game Report -

Match-up: USA vs. Martinique
Date: July 14, 2003
Competition: CONCACAF Gold Cup, Group C
Venue: Gillette Stadium – Foxboro, Mass.
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET
Attendance: 8,780
Weather: Clear, 67 degrees

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
USA 2 0 2
Martinique 0 0 0

Scoring:
USA – McBride (Ralston) 39th minute
USA – McBride (Ralston) 43rd

Lineups:
USA (4-4-2): 18-Kasey Keller; 2-Frankie Hejduk, 4-Carlos Bocanegra, 6-Cory Gibbs, 15-Bobby Convey; 13-Richard Mulrooney, 10-Claudio Reyna (capt.) (8-Earnie Stewart-46), 19-Steve Ralston, 7-Eddie Lewis (25-Pablo Mastroeni-65); 21-Landon Donovan, 20-Brian McBride (3-Greg Vanney-86)
Subs not used: 24-Adin Brown, 11-Clint Mathis, 60, 12-Danny Califf, 17-DaMarcus Beasley

MQE (4-4-2): 26-Eddy Heurlie; 4-Judes Vaton, 12-Stephane Suedile, 8-David Dicanot 16-Jean Victor Lavril, 15-Willy Padoly (6-Gael Germany 75), 7-Yann Girier-Dufournier 21-Charles-Eduoard Coridon, 11- Miguel Duragrin, 10-Jose Goron (20-Dominic Real 82), 5-Patrick Percin (14-Jean Michel Michaud-68th)
Subs not used: 1-Jean-Francois Go, 2-Laurent Lagrande, 17-Willy Anin, 18-Robert Cinna

Stats Summary: USA MQE
Shots 13 3
Saves 3 5
Corner Kicks 11 1
Fouls 13 15
Offsides 3 4

Misconduct Summary:
USA – Frankie Hejduk, Caution 30th minute
MQE – Yann Girier-Dufournier, Caution 45th
MQE – David Dicanot, Caution 62nd
MQE – Yann Girier-Dufournier, Caution 89th
MQE – Yann Girier-Dufournier, Ejection 89th

Officials:
Referee: Mr. Roberto Moreno (PAN)
Senior Assistant Referee: Mr. Rafael Herrera (MEX)
Junior Assistant Referee: Mr. Roberto Alcantara (DOM)
Fourth Official: Mr. Benito Archundia (MEX)

Chevrolet Man of the Match: Brian McBride

From USSoccer.com.

» 07.14.03 - RAPIDS END EARTHQUAKES SIX-GAME UNBEATEN STREAK WITH 2-0 VICTORY AT SPARTAN STADIUM: SAN JOSE, CA (July 12, 2003) — The San Jose Earthquakes six-game unbeaten streak came to an end Saturday night at Spartan Stadium as they fell 2-0 to the Colorado Rapids. The Rapids (5-8-3, 18 points) won their third straight game with a first half goal from Ritchie Kotschau and a second half strike from Mark Chung to send the Earthquakes (6-3-6, 24 points) to their first loss in seven games.

The Earthquakes opened the game attempting to pressure Colorado, as Manny Lagos received a cross in the middle and sent a volley over the Colorado net in just the first minute of play. The Rapids responded by controlling the action in the next 20 minutes, sending several dangerous crosses into the middle of the San Jose penalty box that were cleared away.

The Rapids had the first strong chance of the game in the 26th minute when San Jose goalkeeper Jon Conway dove off his line attempting to deflect a Colorado cross. Conway knocked the ball away as Colorado's Kyle Beckerman and Todd Dunivant collided over top of him. The ball caromed back to Beckerman, who dropped a pass to Mark Chung. Chung unleashed a shot at an open net that was blocked by San Jose's Eddie Robinson.

Four minutes later the Earthquakes tested Rapids goalkeeper Scott Garlick when Ramiro Corrales stole the ball from Beckerman and headed towards the left side of the penalty box. Corrales stopped at the 18-yard line and fired a shot that Garlick was able to control.

The Rapids took the lead in the 34th minute on a goal from defender Ritchie Kotschau. Kotschau received a long pass on the left side of the field from Chris Carrieri and beat his defender after Brian Mullan slipped while pursuing him. Kotschau headed in on Conway and was able to place the ball above the sliding goalkeeper for a 1-0 Colorado lead.

Colorado extended its lead to 2-0 just four minutes into the second half on a wicked one-time volley by Chung. Chung hammered a shot to the near-post past a diving Conway following a cross from the right side by Carrieri.

The Earthquakes nearly got on the scoreboard in the 58th minute, as Lagos gathered a pass behind the Colorado defense and headed into the Rapids penalty box with just Garlick to beat, but his shot was deflected by the sliding goalkeeper. San Jose had another opportunity to cut the Colorado lead in half in the 73rd minute when Jamil Walker's shot from the left side of the penalty box was caught by Garlick.

The Earthquakes continued to pressure the Rapids as the game came to a close, with Brian Ching nearly heading the ball into the upper right corner of the Colorado net on a corner kick in the 81st minute. The Earthquakes frustrations mounted when Ching settled a long pass from Ramiro Corrales six yards away from the goal on the right side. Ching's shot from close range sailed over the net, however, keeping the Quakes scoreless in three straight games at Spartan Stadium.

The Earthquakes next travel to take on D.C. United on July 19 at 1:00 p.m. PT. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and Talk 910 AM KNEW.

Notes:

The Earthquakes played tonight's game without the services of Landon Donovan, Richard Mulrooney and Pat Onstad. Donovan played for the United States in a 2-0 win over El Salvador on Saturday in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Mulrooney did not see any action in the match. Onstad served as the back-up goalkeeper for Canada in its 1-0 Gold Cup win over Costa Rica.

Earthquakes forward Roger Levesque made his MLS debut in the 68th minute.

The loss ended the Earthquakes six-game unbeaten streak.

The Earthquakes have now gone scoreless in three straight games at Spartan Stadium for the first time in club history.

Quotes:

Frank Yallop, on game: "That was the worst we've played since I've been here. I'm disappointed in our effort, we wanted to come out and score some goals, but I didn't see any desire to win from our team. Obviously we are struggling in front of the goal and we have to correct that, but our all around play was poor."

Frank Yallop, on game: "I just don't think the guys were up for it tonight. We could have stayed atop the Western Conference with a win and we knew that going in. We will talk about what happened tonight and we will work to correct that for the next game."

Frank Yallop, on Roger Levesque's MLS debut: "It was great to see Roger out there. I think he did okay and he didn't look out of place in his first game. He is a good player and I thought he could do something around the net for us tonight."

Jeff Agoos, on game: "It just wasn't good enough tonight. Tonight had nothing to do with soccer. It had everything to do with desire and heart and we didn't have it."

Roger Levesque, on MLS debut: "It was bittersweet. I was excited to get on the field, but we didn't get a win and in the end that's what matters. I just was trying to push up front and get everyone as forward as we could to try and get a goal."

Manny Lagos, on game: "That was just an awful game on our part. There wasn't enough effort in the way we played. Tonight was probably the worst game we have played since I've been here."

Craig Waibel, on Colorado's performance: "They were moving around a lot and pushing forward. They were holding onto the ball well and passing well so maybe that gave us some problems. Sometimes it just comes down to who wants it more, and it just wasn't there for us tonight." From SJEarthquakes.com.

» 07.12.03 - U.S. Posts Dominating 2-0 Win Against El Salvador in Gold Cup Opener: FOXBORO, Mass. (Saturday, July 12, 2003) — Goals on either side of halftime by Eddie Lewis and Brian McBride led the United States to a dominating 2-0 victory against El Salvador in their opening group match of the 2003 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The win will be broadcast via tape-delay Sunday, July 13th at 7 p.m. ET on Galavision. With the victory, the U.S. needs only a draw against Martinique to advance to the quarterfinal round.

“Overall, I think it was a good team effort,” said U.S. Manager Bruce Arena, who improved his lifetime Gold Cup record to 7-0-2. “We probably made the game a little bit more difficult than we needed to. I give El Salvador a lot of credit. They are a much-improved team over the one we saw in last year’s tournament. Again, another good experience for us. It was good to get Claudio Reyna back on the field and some of our other veteran players. Hopefully we can continue to improve in each game of the tournament.”

The U.S. enjoyed the majority of possession in the first half, with El Salvador rarely venturing into the U.S. end of the field. With El Salvador sweeper Marvin Gonzalez playing several yards deep, the U.S. was able to take advantage of the space and continually send balls in behind the marking backs. The team’s first quality chance came in the 6th minute, with a long looping ball played behind the Salvadorean defense. As Earnie Stewart raced towards the box to catch up, goalkeeper Juan Gomez hesitated before coming off his line. Stewart was the first to arrive, but his point-blank shot was well stopped by Gomez.

The USA continued to press the attack, nearly getting the first goal just two minutes later. Eddie Lewis’ cross from the left flank was poorly cleared by the Salvadorean defense, leaving Pablo Mastroeni open at the top of the box. Mastroeni banged a first-time volley that smacked flush off the crossbar and bounded away.

Eddie Lewis would finally open the U.S. scoring account in the 28th minute. Playing a pass into the feet of Brian McBride, who was stationed at the top of the box, Lewis ran past the Salvadorean defense in a delayed give-and-go. With only the ‘keeper to beat, Lewis struck a right-footed blast that found the far-side netting. Coming in his 50th appearance for the United States, Lewis now has tallied five career goals for the MNT, with two of those finishes coming in 2003.

Lewis would have one final chance before the halftime whistle. Receiving the ball 25 yards out and dead center from goal, he cleverly tried to chip the ball over Gomez, who had wandered several yards off his goal line. The dipping shot narrowly missed falling under the crossbar. The U.S. would finish the half with six shots, with El Salvador unable to manage a single shot on goal.

Returning to the starting lineup was longtime captain Claudio Reyna, who made his first appearance in the starting XI for the United States since the 2002 World Cup. Reyna turned in 60 solid minutes for the U.S., demonstrating the passing touch and ability to dictate the pace of a game that has become his trademark. Reyna was replaced by Clint Mathis, who made an impact just seconds after entering the game. His first touch of the match came on another long, flighted ball over the top of the defense. Twelve yards from goal, Mathis unleashed a first-time, dipping volley that skimmed to the top of bar.

Chevrolet Man of the Match Brian McBride doubled the U.S. lead in the 76th minute. Steve Ralston, who came on for Earnie Stewart in the 71st minute, raced down the right flank and turned the corner just inside the penalty area. He whipped a perfect cross onto the head of the onrushing McBride, who hammered a header home to give the U.S. a 2-0 advantage. With his 21st career international goal, McBride is now tied for third place on the all-time U.S. scoring list with Bruce Murray.

Earning a shutout, U.S. goalkeeper Kasey Keller has now recorded five consecutive shutouts in Gold Cup play, dating back to January 21, 2002. Holding 31 career shutouts, Keller is one shy of the all-time U.S. mark set by Tony Meola. The U.S. improved its all-time record against El Salvador to 10-1-4, and has amassed an astonishing 15-0-0 record all-time in Gold Cup group play.

The U.S. will conclude group play Monday night evening against Martinique. The first-ever meeting between the nations takes place July 14 at 8:30 p.m. ET in Foxboro, with that match scheduled to be broadcast live on Galavision. All of the USA’s matches can be followed live on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker, presented by Philips Electronics.

- U.S. Men's National Team Game Report -

Match-up: United States Men's National Team vs. El Salvador
Date: July 12, 2003
Competition: CONCACAF Gold Cup, Group C
Venue: Gillette Stadium – Foxboro, Mass.
Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. ET
Attendance: 33,652
Weather: 82 degrees; clear

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
United States 1 1 2
El Salvador 0 0 0

Scoring:
USA Eddie Lewis (Brian McBride) 28th minute
USA Brian McBride (Steve Ralston) 76

Lineups:

USA (4-4-2): 18-Kasey Keller; 3-Greg Vanney, 4-Carlos Bocanegra, 12-Danny Califf, 2-Frankie Hejduk; 25-Pablo Mastroeni, 10-Claudio Reyna (capt.) (11-Clint Mathis, 60), 7-Eddie Lewis (15-Bobby Convey, 83), 8-Earnie Stewart (19-Steve Ralston, 71); 21-Landon Donovan, 20-Brian McBride Subs not used: 24-Adin Brown, 4-Cory Gibbs, 17-DaMarcus Beasley, 22-Richard Mulrooney

SLV (3-4-3): 22-Juan Gomez (capt.); 5-Victor Velasquez, 3-Marvin Gonzalez (4-Julio Castro, 90), 19-Alfredo Pacheco; 18-Gilberto Murgas, 2-William Torres, 24-Guillermo Moran, 11-William Torres Alegria (7-Ramon Sanchez, 44); 14-Rudis Corrales, 12-Juan Campos (8-Santos Cabrera, 74), 9-Diego Mejia Subs not used: 1-Henry Hernandez, 17-Carlos Menjivar, 6-Oscar Navarro, 15-Alexander Ochoa

Stats Summary: USA SLV
Shots 10 10
Saves 2 3
Corner Kicks 2 6
Fouls 16 13
Offsides 1 2

Misconduct Summary:
SLV – Santos Cabrera 78th minute
USA - Danny Califf 90

Referee: Mr. Felipe Ramos (MEX)
Senior Assistant Referee: Mr. Vladimir Bertiaga (PAN)
Junior Assistant Referee: Mr. Rafael Herrera (MEX)
Fourth Official: Mr. Roberto Moreno (PAN)

Chevrolet Man of the Match: Brian McBride From USSoccer.com.

» 07.06.03 - Donovan Scores Early, Stewart Scores Late to Give U.S. 2-0 Win Over Paraguay, Remain Undefeated in Columbus: COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sunday, July 6, 2003) — The U.S. Men’s National Team used an early goal from Landon Donovan in the 12th minute and a last-second strike from Earnie Stewart to deliver a 2-0 win over Paraguay in front of 14,103 fans at Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio today. With the win, the U.S. improved to 2-0-2 (4 Goals For, 0 Goals Against) in Columbus, and posted its fourth consecutive shutout at Crew Stadium.

“We’re happy with the win. It’s always good to get a quality game like this going into a competition,” said U.S. MNT manager Bruce Arena, who improved to 6-3-2 in 2003. “I told the team after the game that we were a much better team in how we played for each other than any of the three games we played in France (at the 2003 Confederations Cup).”

The U.S. has its first good scoring chance as early as the eighth minute, when Landon Donovan chased a ball down on the left side at the endline and served a great ball to the center of the six-yard box. Forward Clint Mathis rose and collided with a Paraguayan defender, sending the ball back into the air to the far post to Earnie Stewart, whose off-balance header was easily saved by goalkeeper Justo Villar.

Just four minutes later, the U.S. broke through after a spectacular individual dribbling effort from midfielder DaMarcus Beasley, who beat three defenders on a rampage through the Paraguay penalty box. After snaking through two defenders, Beasley pulled a sweet cutback move past a sliding defender, and whipped a low cross across the box. Initially deflected by a Paraguay defender, the ball fell to Donovan in the middle of the area, where he blasted it home from eight yards out.

Paraguay had two good chances to equalize in a three-minute span toward the end of the first half, including a shot from forward Derlis Soto that almost had got past U.S. goalkeeper Kasey Keller but harmlessly caromed off the post and out for a goal kick in the 37th minute. Two minutes later, Paraguay midfielder Jorge Campos was freed behind the U.S. backline and raced in alone, but Keller darted out to challenge him and forced a shot that he saved with his left hand.

While play evened out in the second half, the U.S. continued to push for a second goal. That goal almost came in the 82nd minute off more good work from Beasley, who sent in a dangerous cross from the left flank that Villar was forced to come off his line and punch out. The ball fell right to U.S. defender Cory Gibbs, who trapped it with his right leg before missing an open net with a volley that sailed over the crossbar.

With two minutes left in regulation, it was second-half sub Eddie Lewis, who had taken over for Beasley on the left flank, who provided a dangerous cross, sending a great ball into the middle of the box that the lanky Chicago Fire midfielder snapped high and wide of the upper corner.

The U.S. finally got a well-deserved second score in the fifth minute of stoppage time off yet another juicy cross from Lewis. Similiar to the earlier Beasley effort, the Paraguayan defender was forced to the head the ball back to the center of the box. This time, it fell to midfielder Earnie Stewart, who made up for Gibbs’ missed opportunity by rocketing his shot through traffic and into the back of the net seconds before the referee blew the final whistle.

Keller, making his first appearance for the U.S. since playing the second half of a 2002 World Cup tune-up in Foxboro, Mass., on May 19 of last year, extended his unbeaten streak to 15-0-4 on home soil and registered his 29th career shutout.

Long-time U.S. captain Claudio Reyna returned from injury to play the final 30 minutes of the match, marking his first international appearance since the 1-0 quarterfinal loss to Germany on June 21, 2002 in the World Cup.

The U.S. will defend its regional title in the 2003 CONCACAF Gold Cup to be held July 12-27 in Boston, Miami and Mexico City. The U.S. opens Group C action on July 12 against El Salvador at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass., with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. ET. Having defeated El Salvador 4-0 in the quarterfinal round in 2002, the U.S. now holds a 9-1-4 advantage in the all-time series. The USA will take on Martinique in the first-ever meeting between the nations on July 14 at 9 p.m. ET in Foxboro, with that match scheduled to be broadcast live on Galavision. All of the USA’s matches can be followed live on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker, presented by Philips Electronics.

- U.S. Men’s National Team Game Report -

Match-up: United States Men's National Team vs. Paraguay
Date: July 6, 2003
Competition: International Friendly
Venue: Columbus Crew Stadium – Columbus, Ohio
Kickoff: 3 p.m. ET
Attendance: 14,103
Weather: 88 degrees; hot, humid

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
United States 1 1 2
Paraguay 0 0 0

Scoring:
USA – Landon Donovan (DaMarcus Beasley) 12th minute.
USA – Earnie Stewart (unassisted) 95+.

Lineups:
USA (4-4-2): 18-Kasey Keller; 3-Greg Vanney, 6-Cory Gibbs (23-Nick Garcia, 87), 4-Carlos Bocanegra, 2-Frankie Hejduk; 22-Richard Mulrooney, 17-DaMarcus Beasley, 15-Bobby Convey (10-Claudio Reyna, 61), 8-Earnie Stewart; 21-Landon Donovan (20-Brian McBride, 90), 11-Clint Mathis (7-Eddie Lewis, 71).
Subs not used: 1-Joe Cannon, 12-Danny Califf, 25-Pablo Mastroeni.
Head Coach: Bruce Arena.

PAR (4-4-2): 12-Justo Villar; 14-Rodrigo Mendoza, 4-Ruben Maldonado, 5-Celso Ayala (capt.), 21-Jorge Nunez; 2-Diego Gavilan (20-Walter Avalos, 69), 8-Angel Ortiz; 16-Carlos Bonet, 11-Jorge Campos (15-Victor Ortiz, 46); 7-Derlis Soto (19-Jorge Acucharro, 70), 9-Juan Samudio (17-Fredy Bareiro, 46).
Subs not used: 22-Miguel Cardenas, 3-Daniel Caballero, 6-Edgar Gonzalez, 13-Jacinto Zorrilla, 18-Walter Fretes.
Head Coach: Anibal Ruiz.

Stats Summary: USA PAR
Shots 13 12
Saves 3 3
Corner Kicks 8 3
Fouls 12 14
Offside 2 6

Misconduct Summary:
PAR – Rodrigo Mendoza (caution) 45th minute.
PAR – Angel Ortiz (caution) 89.

Referee: Mr. Mauricio Navarro (CAN)
Senior Assistant Referee: Mr. Eric Roy (CAN)
Junior Assistant Referee: Mr. Amato DeLuca (CAN)
Fourth Official: Mr. Michael Kennedy (USA)

Chevrolet Man of the Match: DaMarcus Beasley From USSoccer.com.

» 07.06.03 - EARTHQUAKES EXTEND UNBEATEN STREAK TO SIX GAMES FOLLOWING 0-0 TIE WITH CHICAGO FIRE: SAN JOSE, CA (July 5, 2003) — The San Jose Earthquakes extended their unbeaten streak to six games following a 0-0 tie with the Chicago Fire Saturday night at Spartan Stadium. The Quakes (6-2-6) third straight tie gives them 24 points, putting them on top of Major League Soccer along with the MetroStars.

The Fire (6-3-4) produced the first scoring chances of the game, with Ante Razov and Damani Ralph each getting several opportunities in the first 30 minutes of play. Ralph had a great opportunity just five minutes into the game when he broke free from the Earthquakes defense on the left side of the ball. Ralph went in unmarked toward San Jose goalkeeper Pat Onstad, but his shot hit the crossbar and sailed out of bounds.

The Earthquakes offense came to life at the end of the first half, with Brian Mullan forcing Fire goalkeeper Zach Thornton to dive and punch away the ball on a hard blast from the center of the field 25 yards away from the goal. Moments later, Thornton had to scramble to make a save again when Craig Waibel turned a Chicago turnover on the left side of their penalty box into a difficult shot.

Onstad was called on to make a tough save in the 48th minute when he moved to block a Razov volley off a looping cross from the right side by Chris Armas.

In the 55th minute, San Jose’s Brian Ching finished off a nice flurry of passes with a ball to a streaking Chris Roner. Thornton charged off his line and was able to knock the ball from Roner as he was about to shoot it.

Second half substitute Manny Lagos made an impact in the 73rd minute when he gathered a pass from Ian Russell on the left side of the field and cut into the center at the top of the 18-yard box before firing off a shot that Thornton was able to save. The Fire responded immediately, as one-minute later Justin Mapp sent a cross to Ralph at the six-yard box in front of the San Jose goal. Ralph’s volley from close range deflected off the back of substitute Nate Jacqua, however, and bounced away allowing the Quakes to clear it from danger.

The Quakes continued to pressure the Chicago goal as they pushed forward in an attempt to break the deadlock. Lagos fired a shot at Thornton in the 83rd minute that Thornton was able to control. San Jose turned up the heat on their attack in extra time, as Jamil Walker found Ching on a long pass over the Fire defense. Ching was able to run onto the ball and entered the box in a one-on-one situation with Thornton trailed by Fire defender Jim Curtin. Curtin bumped Ching from behind as he shot the ball, allowing a sliding Thornton to knock the ball from danger.

San Jose had several chances to score in overtime, with Russell launchign a shot over the cross bar in the sixth minute of overtime, Craig Waibel sending a long cross from the right side into the box that Walker volleyed just wide of the far post a minute later.

The Quakes saved their best chance for last when defender Todd Dunivant sent a cross from the left side that rolled in front of the Chicago net, with Walker missing the ball before Ching knocked it over the goal.

Chicago had one last attempt to score in the final moments of the match when Evan Whitfield’s free kick from 24-yards out was blocked. Ralph picked up the rebound and headed toward the goal before Jeff Agoos forced him to pass the ball to a player in an offside position, ending the threat.

The Earthquakes return to action on Saturday, July 12 when they face the Colorado Rapids at Spartan Stadium at 7:00 p.m. PT. The first 5,000 fans in attendance will receive a size five soccer ball presented by Honda.

Notes:

The Earthquakes played without forward Landon Donovan and Richard Mulrooney, who were both with the U.S. National Team in preparation for Sunday’s exhibition match against Paraguay and the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Earthquakes midfielder Ramiro Corrales missed the game due to a red card suspension.

The tie was the Earthquakes third straight draw.

Earthquakes defender Todd Dunivant earned his first career MLS yellow card.

Earthquakes goalkeeper Pat Onstad recorded his fifth shutout of the season, placing him in a tie for first in MLS with Nick Rimando and he extended his shutout streak at Spartan Stadium 235 minutes.

Quotes:

Frank Yallop, on game: “I thought it was a gallant effort on our part with the way we played after having a game like we did on Wednesday in New York I thought we played hard. Our effort was outstanding and I commend our guys for that. We didn't force the issue enough in the first half. I think we got at them better in the second half."

Yallop, on offense: “We had some opportunities and we probably had some chances that we didn't take. I am proud of the guys for the way that they kept after it and made sure that we would get something from this match. The guys are spent in there right now."

Yallop, on defensive effort: "I thought our defense did a great job and worked well together. Jeff [Agoos] played really well in the middle for us. We limited their chances, although on any other night we would have probably had some goals and so would they."

Ian Russell, on earning a point: “A tie at home isn't really what we like to do, but we'll take it. Out last few games have been pretty close and we haven't lost. I can't say that I am happy not to win, but we'll take the point.”

Eddie Robinson, on Chicago attack: “They are pretty tough to keep up with. [Damani] Ralph and [Ante] Razov just keep running and running, and if you aren't constantly talking you might get beat. We did okay in the back and didn't let them have too much.”

Jeff Agoos, on defensive effort: “We have given up four goals in our last three games. Granted that all four came in the same match, but we have now tied three in a row. We are keeping teams away from our goal which is great, but we really need to start winning, especially at home.” From SJEarthquakes.com.

» 07.03.03 - Donovan Ties Game with Metrostars In Stoppage Time As Quakes Go Unbeaten In Fifth: SAN JOSE, CA (July 2, 2003) — The San Jose Earthquakes fought back from one goal deficits three times to earn a 4-4 tie on Wednesday night at Giants Stadium. The win kept the Quakes in first place overall in Major League Soccer and extended their unbeaten streak to five games.

Brian Ching scored two first-half goals, while Landon Donovan came off the bench and tied the match in the 92nd minute to send the game to overtime. Richard Mulrooney and Craig Waibel each notched two assists, as the Quakes tied their fourth straight game at Giants Stadium.

The MetroStars broke onto the board first in the seventh minute of the match with a goal by Amado Guevara. Clint Mathis took the ball down the right wing and found space to curl a cross to the back post, where Guevara was unmarked. Guevara side-footed a volley to the far post past Quakes goalkeeper Pat Onstad for the 1-0 lead.

Seven minutes later San Jose would draw even behind Ching's fourth goal of the season. Todd Dunivant served a corner kick to the back post to Ching, who powered a volley on goal that MetroStars goalkeeper Tim Howard blocked, but he could not keep it from crossing the goal-line. With the assist on the goal, Dunivant reached six points on the season, tying Wade Barrett for the most points in a single-season by a Quakes rookie.

Ching struck again in the 34th minute to push the Quakes into the lead. Ian Russell started the play with a chip over the defense to Mullan. Mullan brought the ball down and dropped it back to Waibel, who then slid a ball to Ching. Ching one-timed a shot through a MetroStars defender's legs and into the net.

The Metros came right back with the tying goal after a scramble in front of the Quakes net. Guevara sent a ball into the box from the right wing. Onstad came off his line to get the ball, but despite getting a hand on it, the ball fell to MetroStars forward Mike Magee. Magee then looped a shot into the near post to even the match at 2-2.

Two minutes before halftime, Mathis and Guevara combined again to give the MetroStars a 3-2 advantage. Guevara received the ball on the left wing and sent a cross in to Mathis, who volleyed it past Onstad at the near post.

Corrales had a chance to pull the Quakes right back one minute later after some strong work by Ching. Ching worked past a MetroStars defender before leaving the ball off for Corrales with only Howard to beat. Corrales shot low, but Howard made the save.

Second half substitute Manny Lagos scored his first goal of the season to tie the match at three goals apiece in the 78th minute. Mulrooney swung a corner kick into the box that Waibel flicked on to Lagos. Lagos controlled the ball and knocked it into the corner past Howard.

In stoppage time, the game heated up, as Mathis scored his second goal of the match to put the MetroStars up 4-3, but Donovan answered a minute later with his third goal of the year off an assist from Lagos. Mulrooney fed Lagos on the right wing and he found Donovan, who slotted the ball into the far corner to tie the game.

Onstad saved the Quakes in the waning moments with an excellent save on Jaime Moreno in front of the net. Moreno collected a long ball and blasted a shot that Onstad tipped over the bar.

The Earthquakes return to Spartan Stadium on Saturday, July 5 for a match against the Chicago Fire at 7:00 p.m. PT. Prior to the Earthquakes-Fire game on July 5 at Spartan Stadium, fans can bring their old soccer equipment to the East Gate of the stadium for use in the United States Soccer Foundation and Eurosport's Passback Program. Donations from Earthquakes fans of used but still playable soccer equipment will be used to outfit youth teams that cannot afford even the most basic equipment.

Notes:

San Jose is now unbeaten in its last ten matches vs. the MetroStars (6-0-4). The team tied for the fourth straight match at Giants Stadium.

Landon Donovan made his first appearance at Giants Stadium on Wednesday night, entering as a sub in the 69th minute and scoring his second career goal against the MetroStars in stoppage time in the second half.

Todd Dunivant tied the Earthquakes rookie record for points in a season with an assist in the first half. He now has six points in his rookie campaign, tying him with Wade Barrett for the record.

Craig Waibel recorded his first two assists of the season Wednesday against the MetroStars.

The eight goals scored in Wednesday's match against the MetroStars set a San Jose record for most goals scored by both teams in a single game.

Brian Ching had the first multi-goal game of his career Wednesday against the MetroStars.

Quotes:

Frank Yallop, on game: It was a great spectacle for the fans, but not as fun for the coaches. However, to come back from 1-0, 3-2 and 4-3 shows the character of this team. The guys just wouldn't give up and they got a point out of the game. We are a little disappointed not to get the win, but in the end I think it was a fair result."

Yallop, on offense: “I thought that we played well offensively. I think that Landon [Donovan] looked sharp when he came on and Brian Ching looked sharp for 60-70 minutes before he got a little tired."

Brian Ching, on return to lineup and scoring: “It feels great to come right back and contribute in my first start since my injury. I was hoping that I could have played better in the second half, but I am still not totally match fit.”

Manny Lagos, on coming off bench: “For me it was important to come in and contribute in any way that I could. I feel like I haven't been having my best year, but hopefully this match will be a big step toward turning around my season.”

Richard Mulrooney, on match: “It was an unbelievable match. Words can't really describe it. It was not a great defensive effort by us and I think that they picked us apart, but we were able to do the same to them. We are happy with the point.”

Mulrooney, on Quakes unbeaten streak: “The team is doing well right now. We are getting results and we will not let ourselves lose. We are happy to be on top of the league, but we still have a lot of work to do and we need to keep playing better.” From SJEarthquakes.com.

» 07.03.03 - Arena Designates 18-Man Roster, Seven Alternates for Gold Cup: CHICAGO (Wednesday, July 2, 2003) — United States Men’s National Team Manager Bruce Arena has finalized the 18-man roster that will defend the team’s confederation championship in the 2003 CONCACAF Gold Cup to be held July 12-27 in Foxboro, Mass., Miami, Fla. and Mexico City. Those players will report to Providence, R.I., for training camp on July 7, following the USA’s friendly against Paraguay on July 6 in Columbus at 2:55 p.m. ET live on ESPN2 and Telemundo.

Per tournament regulations, 18 players from the initial 25-man roster must be named to the final roster, with seven designated as alternates. Each team is allowed to replace a player from the 18-man roster with one of the seven reserve players at any time during the competition, with the approval of CONCACAF. Once replaced, a player may not return to the competition.

The U.S. opens Group C action on July 12 against El Salvador at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass., with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. ET. Having defeated El Salvador 4-0 in the quarterfinal round in 2002, the U.S. now holds a 9-1-4 advantage in the all-time series. The USA will take on Martinique in the first-ever meeting between the nations on July 14 at 9 p.m. ET in Foxboro, with that match scheduled to be broadcast live on Galavision. All of the USA’s matches can be followed live on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker, presented by Philips Electronics.

Should the U.S. advance beyond the group phase, their quarterfinal match would be held July 19 in Foxboro. The semifinals are being played in Miami on July 23 and Mexico City on July 24, with the championship final scheduled for July 27 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Arena has added Kansas City Wizards defender Nick Garcia to the roster that will host Paraguay on July 6 in Columbus. Garcia, 24, has four appearances for the U.S. MNT, and is listed as one of the alternates for the Gold Cup.

18 Man Roster
DaMarcus Beasley, Carlos Bocanegra, Adin Brown, Dan Califf, Bobby Convey, Landon Donovan

Cory Gibbs, Frankie Hejduk, Kasey Keller, Eddie Lewis, Pablo Mastroeni, Clint Mathis

Brian McBride, Richard Mulrooney, Claudio Reyna, Earnie Stewart, Greg Vanney, Josh Wolff

Reserves
Chris Armas, C.J. Brown, Nick Garcia, Tim Howard, Chris Klein, Steve Ralston, Taylor Twellman

- U.S. Men’s National Team Staff -
Head Coach: Bruce Arena (Fairfax, Va.)
Assistant Coach: Glenn Myernick (Denver)
Assistant Coach: Curt Onalfo (Oak Hill, Va.)
Goalkeeper Coach: Milutin Soskic (Bakersfield, Calif.)
Strength Coach: Pierre Barrieu (Charlottesville, Va.)
General Manager: Pam Perkins (Evanston, Ill.)
Trainers: Rick Guter (Fairfax, Va.), Nelson Minn (Wilmington, Del.)
Team Doctors: Tom Gill (Boston), Dan Kalbac (Miami)
Chiropractor: George Billauer (Los Angeles)
Equipment Manager: Aaron Barrett (Chicago)
Press Officer: Michael Kammarman (Chicago)

From USSoccer.com.