SOCCER: U.S. Fit To Advance To World Cup Qualifying Finals

The first half of Wednesday's World Cup qualifier between the United States and Barbados was a nightmare for American fans. A near goal off the crossbar for Barbados gave the cumulative soccer community a near heart attack. But Joe-Max Moore allowed people to breathe easier with a spectacular individual effort, starting the U.S. offense on its way to 4-0 win that qualified the Americans for the final 2002 World Cup qualifying stage. The importance of a win was stressed all week and it was not for any lack of truth — the U.S. would have been eliminated and embarrassed if they have lost. Yet the team of Barbados, whose coach was worried about putting together a complete squad, gave the U.S. all they could handle and much more than the U.S. wanted. Overall, the biggest key, more than the American attack or defense or the weather, was the field, an mixture of tall grass, short grass, mud and sand that would have made it hard for the cream of the world's class to play. It showed in the first half, a span of 45 minutes in which the U.S. had the two best chances, both of them from Clint Mathis, but Barbados was up to the task in every way as the Americans, which were trying to play on the ground, constantly were befuddled by the bounces and let down by its first touches. But the American's professionalism shown through. The fitness levels of the U.S. were clearly better than Barbados and the introduction of Cobi Jones into the team as a second half substitute changed the look of the game. Overall, this was a game that was not going to be easy, everyone connected with the U.S. knew that. A win was needed, no matter how pretty or poor it looked. A win was what they got. The next round of qualification matches await. Player Reviews: Tony Meola - solid in goal. Barbados almost scored off Carlos Llamosa, but Meola made an outstanding save at the start of the play. Perfect goal kick led to the team's third goal. Five shutouts in five World Cup qualifying games.

Carlos Llamosa - had some problems at times with tall striker Llewyenn Riley, but fought to a standstill. Carried the ball upfield and helped set up Earnie Stewart for the game's second goal. Continued his reputation as a steady man marker in defense despite almost scoring an own-goal in the second half.

Gregg Berhalter - best defensive player for the U.S. Rarely out of position, made one sliding tackle in the penalty box to take away a threat. Once his 30-day contract with Everton runs out, shouldn't have too much of a problem finding a club somewhere in Europe. Has improved on the national scene in last few games.

Jeff Agoos - no left sided threat on offense left him with a relatively slow day. Doesn't have the great speed, but positioning is a terrific equalizer. Didn't hear his name much, which is a good thing for a defender.

Chris Armas - showed ability to move into attack and also defend. Steady with the ball and didn't lose possession too much. Lacked the final cutting pass on offense on a few occassions, but field also had something to do with that. Could be the U.S. stalwart at that position for years to come.

Eddie Lewis - first match since being red carded against Guatamala. Worked hard, not much results to show for it. Being substituted for Cobi Jones was the turning point in the game. Terrific left-footed player, but still needs to develop his right foot for more than just running — a few times a short right-footed pass would have worked but couldn't execute.

Chris Klein - for somebody in only his second international, outstanding. Strength allowed him to carry the ball on offense a number of times. Defensively, wasn't always in the best position, but good learning experience. Have burst onto the U.S. scene since winning the MLS Cup with Kansas City.

Tab Ramos - final international match, as he announced national team retirement afterwards. The bumpy field took away his greatest strength, dribbling through defenders and cutting passes through to runners. Struggled with the field but showed authority whenever in possession, which is what was needed during shaky first half.

Earnie Stewart - His goal was one that any international player would be proud of. Stunning strike which killed any hopes of a Barbados comeback, making the score 2-0 and further boosting U.S. confidence. Had problems with field like everyone else. Sometimes makes a run for no purpose, but still his experience is valuable, especially in Wednesday's situation.

Clint Mathis - First goal was the result of Joe-Max Moore's work. Pass leading to third goal by Cobi Jones was well-executed. Could have done better with his two first half chances. Goal and assists nonetheless, taking advantage of an opportunity that other MLS players (read: Jason Kreis) haven't been able to do.

Joe-Max Moore - His effort made the first goal of the game. Never stopped working, always seemed to be at a level higher than some of his teammates. Has struggled with club team Everton in England, but a performance like this could snap him out of goal-scoring malaise. Proved his worth is invaluable.

Cobi Jones - Appearance changed the complexion of the match. Seemed to scare Barbados more than Lewis did on the left side. Well-timed and well-intentioned run for the third goal. Obviously wants to start, but super-sub role may be more beneficial for the team in the long run, allowing his energy and speed to trouble defenses at the end.

Richie Williams - Came in as substitute for Armas in the last part of the second half. Provided fresh legs in defensive position, although game was already clinched. Probably ranks third for the defensive midfield position behind Armas and the injured John O'Brien, but a third option the U.S. didn't have before.

Ante Razov - scored the game's final goal as a substitute. Developing situation is with his club team in Spain after a recent move from MLS. Some rumors are that he is already disappointed in the conditions, which if true would make one wonder why they weren't checked out beforehand.