Connolly: "Ready for the big stage"

Flyer Fan · May 2, 2003

Ready for the big stage at ESPN.com

Connolly "consulted close to a dozen MLS general managers, coaches, players, agents and soccer aficionados who are "in the know" in one shape or form" to see which current American MLS players are most likely to "make a splash" in Europes. He compiled to top ten list and our two young guns, Buddle and Martino, were both listed:

6. Edson Buddle -- Raised eyebrows when he beat out Jeff Cunningham for the starting striker's role next to Brian McBride, but came through 36 minutes into the opening match against L.A. with a goal. Actually, the 21-year-old has already proved he can score at this level, tallying 13 times (ninth all-time for the Crew) in limited playing time over the past few seasons. Has great ball skills for someone his size (6-1, 170), which has drawn the interest of two Champions League teams, including Norwegian power Rosenborg, that are coming over for a look-see once he's healthy.

"He's a load for a defender to handle out there," says one G.M. "I wouldn't want to defend him."

7. Kyle Martino -- Just coming into his own at 22. In his second season for the Columbus Crew, he's already shown how dangerous he can be whether it's from a one-touch through ball, a quick, darting run or a devastating shot from the top of the box. What's really helped him is playing with a class professional like McBride and from the tutelage of assistant coach Robert Warzycha.

"Give him some added muscle and more one-time balls, and he can make any front-runner happy with his service," says one insider.

"Has everything it takes to be a great one," says another.
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melloyello · May 2, 2003

"devastating" shot from the top of the box? where have i been?

hangthadj · May 2, 2003

Re: Re: Connolly: "Ready for the big stage"

Originally posted by melloyello
"devastating" shot from the top of the box? where have i been?
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There was that one against DAU. But seriously, maybe thats the problem maybe he should just pull up at the top off the box and unleash if he ever has another breakaway, none of this in the box kick it into the keepers chest nonsense anymore.

Buddle to Rosenborg? I wonder what MLS would ask as far as price goes. I can't see it happening just yet, unless Rosenborg blows them away with an offer.

Bill Archer · May 2, 2003

I STILL don't know what the problem here is. Even these guys think Martino has some fire in his leg. Only on the Crew boards is this a question mark.

Does he score a lot? No, but he doesn't shoot a lot so that figures. He's really not supposed to HAVE to shoot very often. I have seen him uncork it just fine, thanks. Maybe I'm watching the wrong guy. I thought Martino was the one with the stupid hairstyle, weighs about 65 pounds soaking wet. Gets knocked down a lot.

melloyello · May 2, 2003

DAU. the keeper was 15 yards off his line. it was a well placed shot with some mustard but still. the keeper may have well been back in panama. lets see him start burrying some free kicks before we call anything "devastating".

Sneever Flion · May 2, 2003

I've only been disappointed with two of Martino's chances, and both were on the breakaways. His other shots were stopped by really good saves. I'm not at all concerned about his striking ability.

As a true professional, he will work on his weaknesses, and hopefully put away those occasional breakaways he gets.