Reasons to smile (if you're a USMNT supporter)

This past Saturday evening saw a very inexperienced (in terms of international experience) USMNT side draw even with a B-side Chilean national team, 1-1.  The match was choppy, mostly unorganized and not exactly easy on the eyes.  However, I think Coach Sweatpants got a great chance to evaluate lots of young and fringe national team talent- and that was point right? 

The result didn't matter and if you think it should have or did, you're missing the point.  Yes, there were glaring holes in the 2nd half backline and the boys played long ball almost all night (frustrating).  However, there were many positive to take away. 

Bradley set the table for Gold Cup support roles with this January camp.  Teal Bunbury (Boon-Boo-Ree!) and Juan Agudelo impressed (I'll get to these two in a minute) as well as Zach Lloyd and Dax McCarty (wonder if Portland is second guessing the decision to trade him).  It was also pointed out by The Shin Guardian on Twitter during the match that Tim Ream was taking charge of the backline in the first half.  Hearing about that type of leadership from a young centerback is phenomenal.  Additionally, I know that Mix Diskerud got some mixed reviews, but I really have been impressed with the young attacking mid in his two appearances with the national team.  His touch and creativity seem destined to be a USMNT mainstay for years to come.

Now about those two strikers, Agudelo and Bunbury.  They absolutely changed the match when they came on in the second half.  Both were active and showed great chemistry in the final third.  There is a reason that Red Bull New York was ok with letting Juan Pablo Angel go this winter.  Something tells me that Agudelo is going to make that front office look like geniuses this season.  As for Bunbury, it just seems like he has something different in terms of swagger when he's on the pitch.  After the World Cup and all the talk about how the USMNT lacks options up top outside of Jozy, Bunbury and Agudelo brought a smile to face on Saturday.  Things continue to look up for the Yanks.