Stephen Ireland also came on for the injured Claudio Reyna, and he swiftly brought another important save from Van der Sar.

BBC: Wayne Rooney celebrates putting Man Utd ahead in the derby

Thus, some of America's finest, among them Joe-Max Moore, Claudio Reyna (pictured left) and Tony Sanneh, have taken their studs abroad.

ECONOMIST: Why there is no soccer in America

Mexico had 15 corner kicks, including three in the last two minutes of stoppage time, and Guzan body-blocked a dangerous shot by Angel Reyna.

WSJ: U.S., Mexico Tie 0-0 in World Cup Qualifier

At the other end, City keeper David James fumbled a James Coppinger strike while Claudio Reyna wasted two half chances before Sun hammered the ball against the woodwork from Lee Croft's pass.

BBC: SPORT | Football | League Cup | Doncaster 1-1 Man City (aet)

Barton, on as a substitute for the injured Claudio Reyna, struck with a fine effort from the edge of the area to reduce the deficit to a solitary goal again, but City were unable to pull level.

BBC: Danny Mills in action for Manchester City