The Crash after the Rise

Well, once again I was fooled at the thoughts of Real Salt Lake turning the corner. I predicted a 3-1 win for RSL, and was very disappointed in the first 45. Toronto dominated possession, while we were lucky to hold the ball for 10 seconds. Our lack of wide play, let Toronto play compact defense, and letting Wynne shoot up the wings with no worry about us getting in behind wing. I think we are missing outside presence for our game. However, I do like this type of play at Rice Eccles.

I am thinking that we may be seeing Tony Beltran, soon. Ian Joy has been a little bit lackluster defending our left side. Beltran has been a bright spot in practices, and I think he could be a good change up to our lineup. I have been impressed with the rest of the back-line.

The midfield still needs something, and my conclusion is our speed in midfield. We do not have players that are quick to react and shoot down the field for counter-attacks. Kreis's high emphasis on possession is part of the reason why the counter-attack looks weak. Plus, as I look at the rest of our lineup, I really see no other options that would change up are possession-oriented midfield.

Robbie Findley is a sub. I said it before the season, and a few weeks ago. The guy is a great talent, but I think he has a greater benefit to the team as a sub. If Espindola is not 100% ready-to-go, Yura Movsisyan should be the starter with Deuchar.

As for next weekend, I am worried about the game against DC United. I am hoping there is a focus in practice on RSL making something happen on counter-attacks. I think DC will have a very different attitude coming into this game, as our 4 - 0 win from last weekend. If Coach Kreis does not make any changes this week, you should expect many different faces in the mid-week home US Open Cup game against the Earthquakes.

Feel free to scream at me for talking about focusing on counter attacking.