U.S. falls to Italy in U-17 World Cup

(Photo courtesy of Soccer By Ives)

The U.S. lost to Italy 2-1 in the U-17 World Cup, eliminating them from the tournament. The U.S. missed a golden opportunity early in the match when Italy was called for a handball in the box, setting up a penalty kick. U.S. striker Jack McInerney blasted a low shot to the right of Italy goalkeeper Bardi. But Bardi reacted well and deflected the shot. Bardi was estatic and visibly excited as he fist-pumped and gestured to his bench. Italy went on top soon after. Berreta found the back of the net in the 28th minute. After Berreta’s goal, Italy found their rhythm, pushing for several chances that were wide or offside. The U.S. failed to gain much momentum during the first half. Luis Gil created some chances for the U.S., but nothing substantial. The U.S came out strong in the second half, netting a goal off of a corner kick in the 51st minute. Paloduchuk rose above Italy’s defenders to head in a Luis Gil corner.Italy didn’t allow that tie for long. Just five minutes after Paloduchuk’s goal, Italy’s Iamello turned and blasted a flyer past Edwards to go back on top 2-1.The goal put the Americans on their heels as Italy got several more shots on goal. Edwards did well to stop a tough breakaway shot. The U.S. put forth several more charges, including a Victor Chavez shot that went just wide of the goal, but they were unable to find the back of the net, losing the match 2-1. The loss eliminates them from the tournament.

Why I love Jozy Altidore

I'm a big Jozy Altidore fan. I think he's great for U.S. soccer and I love the fact that he plays in the English Premier League. He's young, fast, talented, accessible and funny. Altidore showed off his accessibility and sense of humor last week when he ran into a flock of sheep crossing the road on his way to practice for Hull City. The striker had been late for one of Hull City's recent matches, and to ensure that he didn't take the blame for this, he shot a video documenting the incident.

Check it out here

The all-important introductions...

Hey world. So my name is Maura Gladys and I’m a journalism student at Ithaca College. I love soccer. A lot. I lived in London for four months last spring where I was spoiled with the abundance of soccer/football available at my fingertips. Being in the 6th row behind the net at Stamford Bridge and watching the Manchester Derby at Old Trafford from the director’s box are not things that I’ll forget anytime soon. Now that I’m back in the States, I’m getting my football fix where I can. Despite my love of the English Premier League, I started this blog because I care about U.S. soccer just as much. I think that America’s soccer culture is a growing movement and that it should be fostered and promoted whenever possible. With this blog I hope to do just that. I plan to provide news, analysis, opinion, and whatever else I happen to come upon. Hopefully readers will appreciate my efforts and put forth opinions and insights of their own as well. So, thanks for reading and hopefully we can have some fun.