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Steve Birbaum scored the late winner over Iceland. The 3-2 win between two reduced sides was at times sloppy, but there were strong qualities from a couple of Seattle Sounders players. In the first half Brad Evans was probably the third best player. In the second half Jordan Morris was in that realm too.
Unfortunately Evans left at half because he had a tight hamstring. But his half at right back was strong. He got forward well and was consistently working triangles and had several decent crosses. His deep ball, as it does for the Sounders, changed the game. Altidore didn't get the shot off, but without that 42' pass the USA never gets into a threatening place.
While Evans wasn't the best player in the first half (one of Altidore or Bradley deserves that), he was great a few times. Both that long ball and throw-in were potentially game changes.
Evans left at the half as he felt something in his hamstring. Klinsmann says that it is more a precaution than anything.
At 75' with the score tied 2-2 Jordan Morris entered. His energy and willful seeking of the ball helped the United States generate several attacks late. His connection to Kiesewetter was immediately obvious. The two sought each other out often.
No Sounders were involved in any of the five total goals scored.
Goals and Assists
13' Kristinn Steindórsson
20' Jozy Altidore Assisted By: Michael Bradley, Gyasi Zardes
48' Aron Sigurdarson Assisted By: Eidur Gudjohnsen
59' Michael Orozco Assisted By: Steve Birnbaum, Jozy Altidore
90' Steve Birnbaum Assisted By: Michael Bradley