USA are using this two game friendly series against the Republic of Ireland to test out their depth chart. If last night is anything to go by, Emma Hayes has an embarrassment of riches to select from.
This was as comfortable as the score line suggests. A four nil win for USA in Denver with several other chances thwarted by Courtney Brosnan and defenders throughout. It was a chastening experience for the Republic of Ireland.
Denver was always going to be a tough assignment for the Republic of Ireland. Its high mile altitude and summer heat posed significant challenges. The absence of Katie McCabe, Aoife Mannion, Megan Campbell and Denise O’Sullivan exposed throughout.
Courtney Brosnan in the Republic of Ireland goal already produced early saves to deny Thompson and Hutton efforts. The opener looked inevitable, the only surprise was that it took eighteen minutes to break the deadlock.
A disappointing goal conceded from the Republic of Ireland from a set piece. The side switch off allowing Lavelle the time to swing in a cross where Patterson headed home with aplomb. Brosnan looking for answers from her team mates; none was forthcoming.
It was one way traffic in Denver. USA thwarted by last defensive efforts and goalkeeping. Ireland with no foothold in midfield conceded at the end of the opening half. Coffey glided past several tired defensive tackle attempts to dispatch home past Brosnan.
The half-time break was a brief reprieve for Carla Ward’s side but the second half quickly returned to home domination. Two further goals conceded before minute sixty-three. USA making the ball work for Lavelle to finish off a sweeping move to make it three.
Republic of Ireland players looking dejected and a fourth goal soon followed. Stapleton switching off for the impressive Thompson to score a lovely effort past a now beleaguered Brosnan. It was turning into a rout.
Cue Emma Hayes to clear the USA bench. The home replacements eager to make an impression. Republic of Ireland hanging on and not leaking any further goals. Sonnett and Moutrie hitting the woodwork with efforts. Erin Healy made her debut but saw precious little possession.
Figure 1: Game Statistics (courtesy of Google)
The game statistics are emphatic. USA dominated this game from minute one. The Republic of Ireland side in defensive mode with minimal possession and passing accuracy. The weather conditions saw the Republic of Ireland work rate wane. For standout teams like USA, the space provided in midfield was only going on way. A comfortable home win ensued.
Carla Ward and management team will hope that this two game series will not deplete confidence within the camp. The performance though needs to significantly improve. Nations League weak points exposed; poor in possession and in transition. The defensive line overworked and goals followed.
USA remember are selecting only domestic based players. Republic of Ireland gratefully not put through the ringer further. The levels seen in Denver were significant.
One wonders what Carla Ward and management can do for the rest of this fixture block. Republic of Ireland need to restore confidence. They face Belgium in Nations League playoffs at the end of the year. I am struggling to see where that confidence comes from. It is worrying times.