AMSTERDAM – Several Americans took part in FA Cup third-round action on Saturday, with Clint Dempsey going the distance on his Fulham return as the visitors forced a replay with a 1-1 draw against Norwich City.
The US star managed some good linking play, but managed just one off-target shot for the day. All replays are tentatively set for Jan. 14-15.
Elsewhere in the draw, Duane Holmes came off the bench to help Huddersfield Town stage a late rally to win 3-2 away to Conference side Grimsby Town.
The teen playmaker from Atlanta (above), who entered the fray near the hour mark, set up the tying goal four minutes from time. The Grimsby netminder failed to handle Holmes' dipping 25-yard drive and Martin Paterson dutifully cleaned up the rebound.
Geoff Cameron and Stoke City also advanced to the next round with a 2-1 defeat of guests Leicester City. The right back pitched in with a solid outing as the Potters won for the fourth time in their last six across all competitions.
Bolton left back Tim Ream worked a largely positive shift in a 2-1 victory over Lancashire derby visitors Blackpool. Aside from being beaten for pace on one occasion that required a good save from his 'keeper, the former New York Red Bulls man kept quite busy disrupting the away attack.
Daniel Williams played the last 17 minutes as Reading bowed out of the tournament with a 1-0 loss at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Meanwhile, Everton netminder Tim Howard and Queens Park Rangers defender Oguchi Onyewu watched on from opposing dugouts as the Toffees sailed to the fourth round with a 4-0 home rout.
Brad Guzan was also spectator in Aston Villa's 2-1 home ouster to third-flight Sheffield United.
Brad Friedel served as back-up as Tottenham fell 2-0 at arch rivals Arsenal.
The FA Cup fourth-round draw will take place after Sunday's matches.
