After 45 minutes at Sporting Park in Kansas City, the United States and Jamaica remain scoreless in their CONCACAF World Cup qualifying match.
USA vs. Jamaica: Halftime score 0-0, Not much happening in Kansas City
Jamaica did their best to find a goal in the opening 45 minutes, but were unsuccessful. The USA appeared to be on cruise control.
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Needing a win desperately, Jamaica poured on the pressure from the opening whistle. The Reggae Boyz generated a great chance in the 7th minute after Tim Howard got himself caught in no man's land, allowing the ball to bounce free towards the far post. Fortunately for the US, there was no one there, partially due to Alejandro Bedoya getting away with a massive shirt pull on Darren Mattocks. Brad Evans was able to clear the ball away from danger, but it was a nervy moment.
After spending most of the opening 15 minutes wasting possession with speculative long balls, DaMarcus Beasley forced a turnover in the attacking third and charged in on goal. His shot was deflected by a defender, going out for a corner. Aron Johansson got an excellent look on the ensuing corner, but his effort went just wide.
As the half dragged on, Jamaica failed to show the creativity they needed to find the opening goal, while the US seemed only marginally interested in the proceedings. The Americans’ passing was extremely sloppy and they have given away possession far to easily, inviting even more pressure on Howard.
Considering they already secured their place in Brazil next summer, it's not surprising, though Jürgen Klinsmann will likely not be thrilled with his team's effort.
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