The US Men's National Team captured a full three points in World Cup Qualifying on Friday night at Raymond James Stadium, defeating Antigua and Barbuda 3-1. Antigua unexpectedly got on the board in the 65th minute when Peter Byers buried a goal to cut the lead in half. It was an ugly lapse by the US that momentarily gave their overmatched opponent hope.
The US added their third goal of the night on a strike by Herculez Gomez, who pounced on a loose ball in the box and took it in to make it 3-0 at the time. Gomez has had a solid camp and spring, earning a starting spot for Jurgen Klinsmann and he was active again in the first Cup qualifier for USMNT.
Despite the 3-1 win, it was not a pretty showing for the US. None of the three goals came in open play, and Antigua challenged Tim Howard several times over the final 20 minutes, thanks to some sloppy play by the US.
The US has little time to gather themselves, as they now travel to Guatemala for their second qualifier on Tuesday night.
For more updates from tonight's World Cup Qualifying Match between the United States and Antigua and Barbuda, make sure to stay tuned to this StoryStream. Still not enough soccer for you? Make sure to stop by the SB Nation Soccer Hub Page for more coverage from this game and from around the world including other qualifying action and Euro 2012.