"We were disappointed that we did not execute better at critical moments in the match," said US head coach Tom Billups reflecting on the loss to Russia in the final of the Super Powers Cup.
The Russians won the game 30-21 in front of more than 10,000 at the Central Stadium in Krasnoyarsk.
A handful of miscues gave the Russians a crucial edge in possession and the Russian team, showing the benefit of a full test season together, capitalized.
"We brought 24 players into a high-performance environment and within a few extended days, we were able to run a senior test team to within nine points in very hostile conditions," noted Billups.
"We successfully identified a fistful of new players who I believe can help us at the senior test level," added the coach who will next take the USA's test side to August's Pan-American tournament. "And for some known players, it was an opportunity to play a substantial role in an international match."