Jamaica vs. USA, 2014 World Cup qualifying: Brad Evans the hero in 2-1 win

The Jamaicans started to really exert themselves as the match passed the hour mark, but it didn’t seem like they could take advantage of the US’s defensive frailties. By the final 15 minutes, the hot temperature and high humidity had taken its toll on both teams, leading to a lot of weak passes and dead legs.

With the three points secured, the USA stands in first place in the Hex standings with 7 points. They play again on Tuesday when they host Panama in Seattle.

But at least they haven’t let the visitors kill off the game yet. The Americans are struggling to impose themselves, and until they get a second goal they’ll always have to be afraid of Jamaica profiting from a mistake and coming back into the match. There’s only fifteen minutes left now -- can the United States keep their hosts at bay and grab what would be a crucial three points? It’s looking good so far.

Jamaica nearly went level in the 38th minute, but Rodolph Austin missed an open net and the ball bounced off the right post. Prior to that instance, the much maligned American back four had kept the mistakes to a minimum, but the Reggae Boyz began to look threatening before halftime.

• Breaking down the USMNT’s crucial June

Here are the starting lineups for Friday night’s World Cup Qualifier:

Kickoff is at 9:30 p.m. ET and the game can be seen on beIN Sport in the United States.