The Daily Dirt, March 29: Relief

Last night was a prime example of a road match in CONCACAF. Sloppy, interesting refereeing, intense, and on a razor’s edge. That’s how these games go, and the U.S. did well to earn a valuable point in the standings.

Both teams had chances to snatch a win last night, with Panama creating just a few more opportunities than the U.S. However, Bruce Arena’s makeshift lineup held up over the ninety minutes and only allowed one goal. Christian Pulisic took advantage of poor possession play to cause a turnover, then find Clint Dempsey for the game’s first goal. Again, not pretty, but effective.

After four games, the U.S. is in the playoff spot in fourth place in the Hex table. In the next set of games, they will host Trinidad and Tobago before traveling to Mexico three days later. With six games remaining, every match matters as two points separate the final automatic qualifying spot and last place in the competition.

Domestic

Clint Dempsey’s goal gives the U.S. a draw in Panama (Stars and Stripes FC)

Ugly game, but it’s a beautiful point for the U.S. (MLS)

Mike Petke will reportedly be announced as the new manager for Real Salt Lake (RSL Soapbox)

Bastian Schweinsteiger maintains his drive as he comes to Chicago Fire (NY Times)

Waylon Francis in not an automatic starter for the Columbus Crew (Columbus Dispatch)

Scouts from all over the world coming to watch FC Dallas vs. Pachuca on April 4 (Big D Soccer)

Orlando City B gives players opportunities to prove themselves (Orlando Sentinel)

Boise banking on pro soccer (KTVB)

International

Argentina fails to win in Bolivia after Lionel Messi is suspended for four games (SB Nation)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Manchester United are talking about an extension (FourFourTwo)

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