1. Bornstein’s goal against Costa Rica will be mentioned a total of seven times. The highlights will be shown in both the pre-game and half time specials.
The focus seemed to be more on the Costa Rica result than Bornstein’s goal. And the highlight wasn’t overplayed like I thought it might have been. Although I’d argue I was on target with the the spirit of my prediction, I can’t give myself full credit after completely whiffing on the specifics. Not off to a good start. GRADE: C-
2. Conor Casey will score a goal, making it even more likely that he’ll make our World Cup roster. Ugh.
Conor Casey didn’t score. In fact, he didn’t even start. But there are three reasons I’m not going to give myself an “F” on this one: 1. He did get on the field; 2. He had a decent scoring opportunity go just wide; and 3. He might not have helped his World Cup chances, but he’s still in the conversation. GRADE: D-
3. The central defense will look pretty strong considering this is our “B-Team”. Unfortunately, Honduras will steal a goal off a giveaway by one of our outside backs.
Questionable as it may have been, Jimmy Conrad got a red card in the 17th minute, leading to Honduras’ opening goal. Chad Marshall never looked good and got beaten on Honduras’ second goal. GRADE: F
4. Kyle Beckerman will solidify his place in our upcoming list, “The Greatest Hair in US Soccer History.” Unfortunately, he’ll be edged out of the top three by Tony Meola.
Beckerman will definitely be making an appearance in our ongoing series about the history of USMNT hair, but let’s face it–that was determined long before this match. Even though I am right, I have to take a two-grade deduction for playing it safe. GRADE: C
5. The US walk away from this match with a 2-1 victory. It will be far from inspiring, but several players (Benny Feilhaber, Jimmy Conrad, Chad Marshall, and Robbie Rogers) will see their stock rise. Beckerman and Kljestan will look pretty bad, but people will want to keep them in the World Cup conversation.
Win (2-1): no. Far from inspiring: yes. Good game for Benny: yes. Conrad: no. Marshall: no. Rogers: not really. Bad game for Beckerman: no. Kljestan: yes. I believe that makes me 3-for-8. Since I went out on a limb here and got very specific, I don’t think it was a completely failure. GRADE: D+
Pathetic display. Our readers really deserve better. OVERALL GRADE: D-
