Eryk Williamson puts in solid performance for USMNT

Last night was a good night for both Portland Timbers fans and supporters of the U.S. Men’s National Team. Fans of strictly the latter got to see the USMNT rout Martinique 6-1. Fans of the former got to see Timbers midfielder Eryk Williamson play a significant role while doing it. There were wins all around for both groups.

How did outlets rate Williamson’s performance in his first start? Let’s take a look.

MLSsoccer.com — 7.0

Greg Seltzer of MLSsoccer.com noted that Williamson was great when pushed in the right direction. He did note, however, that Williamson got caught facing his own net a couple of times.

When pointed in the right direction, Williamson was very effective. He pushed the team forward on the dribble and set up Robinson’s goal with a pinpoint cross. There were, however, a few turnover hiccups when the Timbers man was caught facing his own net.

Sporting News — 7.0

Simon Borg noted similarly that while Williamson did get caught in bad spots occasionally, he was the effective passer that Timbers fans have known him to be.

After he settled into a rhythm with his central midfield partner, Williams really got into a groove and showed off the skill, confidence and passing ability that earned him a starting spot with the Portland Timbers in MLS. And when he wasn’t dishing passes, he was being fouled. He was caught in possession once in a bad spot, but he made up for it with a sublime stroke on the cross that led to Robinson’s goal.

American Soccer Now — 6.5

Brian Sciaretta gave Williamson the lowest rating of the three aggregated here, but noted that his play was positive overall.

The Portland Timbers midfielder tried to push the pace of the game. Aside from a few turnovers, it generally worked. He was a part of a bunch of linkups.

Agree with these ratings? Let us know below.