Hughes was pleased with his young team's resolve

But he was annoyed with the red-card decision against Matthew Jones for a second bookable offence that Hughes felt cost his side the chance of a second-half comeback.

"It was always going to be a difficult night when Mattie went out of the game," Hughes told BBC Wales Sport. "We had hoped to make inroads after half-time.

"It was unfortunate for Matt - it hit his hand, but the ref was a bit too quick to get his card out."

It was a good experience before the Confederation Cup USA coach Bruce Arena

Jones' dismissal was hardly a surprise. After his first-half booking he gave away the penalty that led to the USA's first goal and his red card followed a deliberate hand ball.

But Hughes will stand by his team to the last and he was encouraged by the performance of his young charges.

Match report: USA 2-0 Wales

"The lads stuck at it as it could have been a very difficult night for them.

"David Vaughan came in and did very well, and Jason Koumas showed a lot of quality on the ball.

"The 10-game run was always going to go at some time and it's better to get that out of the way and go on another one."

Donovan impressed USA coach Bruce Arena

If Hughes was seeking the positives, his USA counterpart Bruce Arena was delighted with the endeavour shown by his young side.

"It was a good exercise for both teams," said Arena.

"Their keeper (Darren Ward) had to make some excellent saves in the second half and their midfield looked very talented.

"Our young players came through very well and Landon Donovan was really impressive.

"It was a good experience before the Confederation Cup."