Americans Abroad Recap and Video Highlights: Beasley scores again for Rangers, Friedel earns another clean sheet, and more
It was another successful Saturday on December 19, 2009 as several Americans were playing in the top European leagues. DaMarcus Beasley continues to score for Rangers and now seems likely to stay with the club after earning a regular spot in the starting line-up.Brad Friedel and Aston Villa are on a roll as they won again and earned a clean sheet. Clint Dempsey started for Fulham as they scored a huge 3-0 win against Manchester United.
On the continent, Michael Bradley and Steve Cherundolo featured in the German Bundesliga while Kenny Cooper remains out with an injury for 2 Bundesliga side 1860 Munich. Here’s a recap along with video highlights for Americans Abroad for Saturday, December 19, 2009.
DaMarcus Beasley (MF) – Ranger beat Motherwell 6-1 – 1 goal, 1 assist – Video Highlights
Beasley has earned a spot back in the starting line-up for Rangers and contributing with 2 goals and 2 assists in his last two Scottish Premier League matches. The goal for Beasley was after he made a great run, received a pass, and had a clinical finish to score in the 84th minute. With the Rangers out of European competitions, they can now focus on repeating as SPL champions. They currently lead the league table with 37 points through 16 matches.
Brad Friedel (GK) – Aston Villa beat Stoke City 1-0 – Video Highlights
Friedel had no saves on the match as Villa beat Stoke City 1-0 on Saturday. Stoke had no shots on goal and it is Friedel’s sixth clean sheet of the season. The club has now won four premier league matches in a row and is in 4th place and tied on points with 3rd place Arsenal.
Clint Dempsey (MF) – Fulham beat Man United 3-0 – 1 assist – Video Highlights
Dempsey played the full match for Fulham at left midfield as they crushed Manchester United 3-0 on Saturday. He had one assist in the match as he sent a header pass to Bobby Zamora who scored in the 46th minute. Overall, he’s in good form lately and was consistently creating good chances in the match. The club will have a busy schedule in the next few months with Premier League matches, FA Cup matches, and the Europa League knockout stage.
Michael Bradley (MF) – Borussia Monchengladbach lost to Bayer Leverkusen 2-3 – Video Highlights
Bradley played the full match for Monchengladbach as they feel to Leverkusen 2-3 on Saturday. He played in a holding central midfield position and the club looked on their way to a win with a 2-1 lead early in the second half. Unfortunately, Bayer Leverkusen scored two unanswered goals to win the match 3-2 and is now top of the Bundesliga table. Monchengladbach is in the middle of the table with 21 points through 17 matches.
Steve Cherundolo (D) – Hannover 96 lost to VfL Bochum 2-3 – 1 assist – Video Highlights
Cherundolo had an assist for Hannover 96 as they took an early 2-0 lead but ended up losing to Bochum on Saturday. Hannover had two first half goals but couldn’t hold off Bochum from scoring three unanswered goals in the second half. Hannover 96 is now 13th with 17 points, only two above the relegation zone.
Jay DeMerit (D) – Watford lost to Peterborough United 1-2
DeMerit played the full match for English Championship side Watford as they lost to Peterborough 1-2 on Saturday. After being out for a few months with an eye injury, the American has returned to the starting line-up. He’s likely to be on the roster for South Africa and has valuable experience as a center back.
Jozy Altidore (ST) – Hull City lost to Arsenal 0-3
Altidore did not start or even suit up for the match on Saturday. It’s not known why as he’s been a starter or second half substitute for most of the season.
