The worth of a forward is often in the eye of the beholder. A 30-yard-blast counts as much as a two-yard tap-in, even though the former is often what gets the hearts of fans beating faster.
There is value in both kinds of goals -- not to mention link play and pressing -- but the U.S. men's national team was grateful for the two short-range tallies from Nicholas Gioacchini and another pair from substitute Sebastian Soto in a 6-2 friendly win over Panama on Monday.
Forward play -- and really the lack of playing with one by virtue of using a false nine -- was one of the main talking points following the 0-0 draw with Wales last Friday.