Steam locomotive design- UK versus USA

I have been wondering about a small basic difference between the two countries ideas. That is, on UK locomotives, the cylinder drain cocks are set up pointing straight forward, whereas the USA virtually all were pointed at a ninety degree angle to the locos. I was wondering if there is some perceived advantage to the UK preference of steam venting straight ahead?

 

My guess is that the American design is better for keeping moisture away from the wheels while the British design drains better

 

Passengers were less likely to get blasted while on the platform in England.