Spring Training in Florida - Early Report

Having attended MLS training at IMG Academy in Bradenton including FIRE vs U-17 & Metrostars v RSL I have made a few premature observations which I would like to share. As indicated they are still premature but perhaps sound.

1) In general the new players are technically sound and following their recent Draftees camp fitter than most others in camp. They bring a certain degree of attacking savvy but are somewhat limited in quick ball movement and true support positioning.

2) With rare exception and excluding the GK’s and Center Backs they are pretty much clueless regarding defensive tactics. Few understand how to influence the direction of play, shut down opponents, double attackers, support other defenders and quickly transition from attack to defense or vice versa.

3) The scrimmage session have been 3 x 30 for FIRE and 2 x 45 for MS v RSL. With the numbers of players in camps the 3 x 30 is the better format. It allows a look at all of the players in different combinations.

4) Outstanding

For the FIRE Brian Plotkin rises above all other young players. I suspect he will be the undeniable “steal” of the draft. In addition to an excellent technical competence he has stamina, tactical awareness, great field vision and a maturity to his game that belies his age and lack of high level experience.

In his 60 minutes of match time, he scored 1 goal, organized the attacking play and opened the U-17 defense repeatedly with incisive, pinpoint passes. He played a holding midfield role alongside Logan Pause and behind Will Johnson, in an attacking midfield role. He supported forward and back and L & R. His 2nd 30 minutes saw him paired with Diego Guttierez, while Plotkin remained impressive, the pairing was not as dynamic. Other info to FIRE Board.

Guevarra remained absent. MS featured a truly outstanding older player. It was shared with me that they are auditioning a Polish International. If so, this player seemed to possess a rather elegant touch and awareness of the game. He played mainly as a holding midfielder but did not hesitate to get well forward in attack. If he signs, he will add considerably quality to MS. He seemed to be in Youri Djorkaeff’s class but somewhat younger and more dynamic.

Marvelle Wynne’s effectiveness was totally neutralized as he featured as a R-sided back in a 3-5-2. As such his primary asset, blazing speed, was never utilized. His marking was adequate tackling better. During the 2nd 45 minute stint, with Marvelle out of the match MS played 4-4-2.

Soild matches can be attributed to Chris Henderson patrolling the L flank with speed, stamina and several excellent crosses into the box. He seems to have a very good understanding with Youri. Tim Regan organized the defense.

Whereas no player was truly outstanding for RSL very solid play at R back from Adolfo Gregorio and at L mid from Seth Trembley highlighted the side. I particularly want to emphasize Trembley’s play as I have been down on him and very hard on him since his U-17 year. As a youth he was definitely one of the best 5 on his U-17 bunch but had not matured to MLS life. He always seemed a red card waiting to happen. He did not jell with teammates, substituted hostility for quality on the pitch and was a referees nightmare. This match saw a different player, disciplined & technical with a renewed tactical sense. His runs were intelligent. Finally he was rewarded for his hard work, he scored the RSL goal.

The U-17’s feature a tall, strong & fast striker, Josie ?. He was a handful for the FIRE. This side seemed very uneven. They seemed limited to 8 or 10 good players and 3 or 4 who re subpar.

 

I wondered if it was Josimer Altidore. He is a monster. Lotsa teams passed on him. They will all regret having done so!