The "Big Picture," MNT vs. Ecuador

The "Big Picture." A valiant justification for the the U.S. mens national teams 1-0 loss to Ecuador in New York, which makes it 3 defeats in 5 under Jurgen Klinsmann. There is nothing the German could really do with the U.S. boys coming off a game on Saturday night, in which fatigue was a factor in their second half complacency. At the half wholesale changes were made, which in a high paced match against Ecuador -who came to play- makes it tough for the subs to get up to match speed and with this the visitors dominated play.

Playing in front of a vocal crowd at Red Bull Arena, Klinsmann's side started the game like a thoroughbred out of the gates, with both wings occupied by Brek Shea and Danny Williams looking integral to a positive outcome. The best play from the U.S. came in the first half, but still failed to mount any notable goal chances- a continuos problem that has plagued the the US.

Not scoring is never good, but it is masked slightly when you don't let goals in but that is not the case for the USMNT. Second half substitute and NY Red Bull player Tim Ream came on to the cheer of his home fans but his failing to get the right side of for Ecuadorian Jamie Ayovi lead to oppositions winning goal.

I like what Alexi Lalas said, when he stated " It's all positive," referring to the result even though the defeat. A statement that I don'y necessarily like, but I agree with and I can't really afford not to with the rebuilding under Jurgen. But I remain smiling through gritted teeth every time John Harkes and analysits alike point out:

" You can certainly pull some positives out of the game."