FOXBORO, MA- Stuart Holden was the hero for Team USA as they came away with a late 2-2 draw against Haiti. Holden controlled a loose ball, marked his spot and placed a beautiful goal in the upper right hand corner of the net two minutes into stoppage time. The US had trialed almost the entire second half before Holden tied up the match. After a quick 6^th minute goal by US forward Davey Arnaud, the 1^st half seemed to sway back and fourth, as neither team could find up any momentum.

“We scored too early to get into any sort of rhythm,” said Team USA Coach Bob Bradley.

Coming out of halftime, Haiti scored within 2 minutes, when Leonel Saint Preaux placed a beautiful cross pass for teammate Sirin Vaniel, who headed it into the back of the net.

“We talked at halftime about regaining control, and coming out of the half, we did just the opposite” Bradley said.  Less than 3 minutes later, New England Revolution defender Jay Heaps made one of the few mistakes by Team USA all night. He failed to clear a ball out of the US zone, and left it about 25 yards perfectly for Mones Chery, who kicked a laser past goalie Luis Robles. Throughout the second half, Team USA battled nonstop, and they were given opportunities left and right. They kept the home fans waiting, as they took more than an hour and a half break between goals. Nonetheless, Team USA will play in the quarterfinals of the Gold Cup on July 18^th. With the draw, Haiti sneaks in as well, and they will await their opponent for the 19^th.

It was an overall hard fought physical battle that had its fair share of bookings. One of which was thanks to Providence native and former Revolution player Michael Parkhurst, who picked up a yellow card in the 31^st minute of play. Despite the physicality, both teams seemed to be pleased with the result, seeing as both teams picked up the point they needed to advance.  

-Mams