In late spring, Top Drawer Soccer attempted to ply me away with enormous cachets of cash, luxurious private jets and copious amounts of alcohol – I successfully spurned their initial offers.  However, after consuming “copious amounts of alcohol”, they were able to convince me after producing several compromising pictures and videos.

In case you haven’t seen my work this spring and summer covering college spring exhibitions, development academy matches and USL PDL matches.  Here’s a link on Top Drawer Soccer – you can search on my name for a list of all my articles.  Over the last several months, I’ve been all over the eastern part of the USA – from Portland Maine to Baton Rouge to Dallas to Des Moines to Michigan. This fall I’m going to be even more far-flung!  So hold on and consider installing a seat belt for your computer.

I won’t be posting here for the foreseeable future.  Thanks for the support.

FYI – Today, I’m posting blog information on the Big Soccer Home Page (yes, big time – I’m already starting to consider a crack addition with my new untold millions)!   Click here for my blog information on Big Soccer.

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Positional rankings:

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1st half (adiPure  White)

F: Jason Herrick (MD), Matt Eliason (NW)

M: Josue Soto (SMU), John Rooney, Dustin McCarty (UNC), Hector Jimenez (Cal)

D: Jeb Brovsky(ND), Jalil Anibaba (UNC), Eddie Ababio (UNC), Demetrius Omphroy (Cal)

GK: Jimmy Maurer (USC)

2nd half (adiPure White)

F: Davis Paul (Cal), Matt Eliason (NW)

M: Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall), John Rooney, Lebogang Pila (St. Peter’s), Josue Soto (SMU)

D: Greg King (UConn),  Jalil Anibaba (UNC), Curtis Ushedo (UAB), Demetrius Omphroy (Cal)

GK: Jimmy Maurer (USC)

1st half (adiZero blue)

F: Will Bruin (IU), Ernesto Carranza (Sac St),

M: Joao Plata, Stephen McCarthy (UNC), Cole Grossman (Duke), Michael Farfan (UNC)

D: J.T. Murray (Louisville),  Tyler Lassiter (NC State), Leone Cruz (SMU), Charlie Campbell (Louisville)

GK: Josh Ford (UConn)

2nd half (adiZero blue)

F: Steven Perry (ND), Amani Walker (UCI)

M: Andy Adlard (IU), Stephen McCarthy (UNC), Tommy Drake (Clemson), Mathues Braga (PSU)

D:  Tyler Lassiter (NC State), Indy Smith (UNCW), Leone Cruz (SMU),  Bilal Duckett (ND)

GK: Josh Ford (UConn)

ASSESSMENT

The third day is a day where the players are tired and are being asked to play in different situations.

Who had a good game (or played better than I expected)?

• Tommy Drake (Clemson)  good deep cross that Braga tried to get too clever and messed up. good defense on King, but lost another ball to him; from 1/10/11 (-), poor performance. lacking concentration mis-played several ball; From 1/8/11 (adequate), created space and was able to get the cross away but Warshaw made a good play to block the cross for a corner kick.  Everybody likes the Drake.
• Leone Cruz (SMU) willing to hit hard on tackles – seemed to particularly like to hit Herrick.; from 1/10/11 (-), good in the air. long ball to no one. first touch on a break-away put the ball in the path of Banks rather into a more favorable position.  ; From 1/8/11 (observe), no notes on his play in the 2nd half.
• Josh Ford (UConn) tremendous stops on several shots ; from 1/10/11 (-), came out and didn’t get the ball – can’t allow that to happen.  good in the air, but needs to hold the ball and not just deflect it wide.; From 1/8/11 (-), moves well.  He forced a break-away very wide with his feet, but it wound up going for a goal.  Ford hesitates on his first step coming out – in the second half.  Duckett didn’t do Ford any favors on a high hard ball back to him that Ford didn’t handle very well.  Ford needs to cleanly catch Sarkodie’s cross that led to the first goal.
• Charlie Campbell (Louisville) brilliant ball to Walker’s head that would have been dangerous, but Attinella made a heroic effort to punch it away.  many solid stops.  Speed against him is his challenge.  Showed well. ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), playing much more physically and with more urgency.  good defensive positioning on Tetteh, but giving too much space trying to force the pass rather than getting beat by speed.  Good in the air; From 1/8/11 (-), got a shot off, but looked to be stationed as more of a forward than a wide midfielder. I’d like to see more work rate and combining with his midfielders.  Additionally, I’d like to see him get around the corner.
• Ernesto Carranza (Sac State) very active, getting into good positions to receive the ball – this is not the same work rate that I saw him play with at Sacramento State early in the year.  He was much more passive ; from 1/10/11 (+), very strong on the ball.  good dribbling and trying to get his team mates involved (but not too successfully); From 1/8/11 (adequate), and Matheus Braga (PSU) interchanged between central midfield and left midfield.  Neither was impressive in creating good opportunities.  I expect that both would be pinging balls to the far post that Bruin (and Walker if on the field) would be finishing.
• Jimmy Maurer (USC) made a couple of clutch saves ; from 1/10/11 (-), erratic play calling for ball but having to use his thigh and then follow with a wild clearance ; From 1/8/11 (-), needs to convince teams that his height is not a reason to bypass him.  He called for a cross and the ball went over his head.  He wasn’t faced with a shot that he needed to stop that was extraordinary.  I still like Maurer.
• Jason Herrick (MD) made the play that should have led to a goal.  Received a long ball pulling the goal keeper to him before slotting the ball into the middle, but Martinez took 2 touches (1 too many) and the empty goal was closed either by Smith or Murray (I don’t recall); from 1/10/11 (+), scored a goal by savvy at the back post.  He knows how to play, If he had just 1 more gear. ; From 1/8/11 (+), nice quick 1 or 2 touch passes were finding his team mates.  In the 2nd half, Herrick had the best scoring opportunity combining with Demetrius Omphroy (Cal) and Hector Jimenez (Cal).
• Hector Jimenez (Cal) hit the post on a shot from the outside of his right foot.  stole the ball from Grossman.  Reminds me of Fred (MLS Fred) – slight, technical, quick; from 1/10/11 (+), had the best cross with a worming burning pass that found the foot of Soto but was wasted.  Concerns if he could handle the physical MLS midfielders and defenders. shoots hard.; From 1/8/11 (adequate), drifted too central taking away Herrick’s space.  He did combine with Herrick for a good shot.  Jimenez had a rocket of a shot
• John Rooney terrific through ball to Eliason but was saved by a superlative effort from the goal keeper. weak in the air; from 1/10/11 (+), much more activity playing centrally.  nice turn with pressure.  I like how he transitioned to defense on the corner kicks making a long run for recovery.  Had a nice 30 yard shot that bounced in front of the goal keeper (but was deflected wide), scored a goal in the second half ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), hit a sweet free kick that was goal bound, but was saved by Joe Willis (Denver).
• Jeb Brovsky (ND) one of the most interesting players.  willing to attack high balls. plays both ways.  served an entry ball, but Herrick was off-side . had several stops on Murray ; from 1/10/11 (+), playing left back – did appreciably well, shutting down Houapeu.  Then, stopped Meram.  Tracks the ball well on headers. ; From 1/8/11 (-), tried to get involved in the play, but his passing was inconsistent and his touch creates more problems than opportunities.  He was better in the second half when he made simpler passes.
• Jeff Attinella (USF) nice get on a high ball to Walker  ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), Surprisingly didn’t have much to do with his quality defense in front of him.  ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), made a good play on a Ashley McInnes (Tulsa) cross that he snagged to break-up the play.

Who was adequate?

• Andy Adlard (IU)  good first touch forced Martinez to foul.  positive plays in the open field.; from 1/10/11 (-), not able to generate any offense. drifted forward resulting being in the way of Perry (the forward) ; From 1/8/11 (+), crossed the ball into the box in the second half on several occasions that weren’t finished.
• Amani Walker (UCI) Courageously went up on a high cross from Campbell, but Attinella punched it away.; from 1/10/11 (-), ineffective.  Tried playing below Perry. Poor head flick – out-of-bounds. Free-kick off target, but dangerous low and just wide. ; From 1/8/11 (+), used his big body in the box, including getting a shot off in the first half that was deflected.  I like Walker the closer that he gets to the goal – I’m positive that playing him as a withdrawn forward playing at Drake limited his effectiveness.  He tracked down the ball into the corner and provided service to Plata but he mis-hit the shot.
• Bilal Duckett (ND) got forward, but Farfan didn’t find him.  Rangy runner with good ups.  Did satisfactory on defense. reminds me of watching Wallace (MD) play left back when he first started back there. ; from 1/10/11 (observe), no comment; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was adept at turning with Houapeu pressuring.  Duckett held his own against the quickness of Houapeu.  I thought that Duckett was more of a central player, that he might be able to play right back is a plus.
• Matheus Braga (PSU) good defense early.  good free kick to find Walker’s head.  Didn’t add enough to the attack; from 1/10/11 (-), isn’t moving well.  holding the ball too long and getting dispossessed. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), and Ernesto Carranza (Sac State) interchanged between central midfield and left midfield.  Neither was impressive in creating good opportunities.  I expect that both would be pinging balls to the far post that Bruin (and Walker if on the field) would be finishing.  Braga needs others around him to be effective.
• Cole Grossman (Duke) good long pass to Murray down the sideline.  dispossessed by aggressive defenders; from 1/10/11 (+), scored 1st goal.  transitions well from defense to offense.  needs to make hard tackles and not rely on finesse. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), playing deep midfield provided a few balls, but he needs to do more.  Additionally, I need to watch his defensive positioning and tackling.
• Will Bruin (IU) finding space behind Ushedo getting a shot of with his head. had a daring shot that the goal keeper stopped ; from 1/10/11 (+), MOTM involved in all 3 goals.  Powerful force.  Took a 30 yard bullet that the goal keeper could only deflect away; From 1/8/11 (adequate), had a few chances including an Adlard cross that he put wide.  Bruin showcased his surprising quickness.  I’d like to see him and Walker up-top together.
• Stephen McCarthy (UNC) set up a Farfan shot and a Perry shot – but the former was too high and the latter was blocked. ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), started out much more composed, then started slowing down his running and the ball.  intimidating force in the air ; From 1/8/11 (-), played a slow, soulless match.  His passing was pathetic.  He’s thinking too much.  With his teammate in the middle I expected a much better performance.  Then, again, he’s already signed, so he’ll be drafted.
• Michael Farfan (UNC) very active in the attack including initiating an attack where Bruin got behind the defense.  Took a shot early when McCarthy set him up; from 1/10/11 (adequate), disappeared for much of the half, occasionally popping up to get involved. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was involved early but seemed to fade out as the match continued.  He had a shot that was blocked by Warshaw.  He combined with Plata to get behind the defense, but the GK got to the Plata pass.  Farfan needs to take more responsibility for the play.
• Jalil Anibaba (UNC) went forward into the attack, reminds me that he used to play in the midfield.  Made a poor head flick back to his goal keeper (off-target).  His passing technique is odd, his toe points up, not level. ; from 1/10/11 (+), continues to be the man with his hawking control of the defensive middle. His left foot is geared to find his front-runners ; From 1/8/11 (+), stock rising with a big game in the back and several driven passes.
• Demetrius Omphroy (Cal) good interception on Grossman’s diagonal. too fancy on the dribble with Smith behind him. square pass to Paul that he touched by Smith for an open look ; from 1/10/11 (+), got forward once, but his cross was lacking.  He serves very dangerous diagonals including the second goal. ; From 1/8/11 (+), got forward to the end line and jump-start the attack.  Additionally, he made a terrific cross to the far post, but Soto didn’t convert the chance.  I like Omphroy’s wheels.
• Matt Eliason (NW) had a shot 1v1 that the goal keeper made a terrific save. Smart first touch to gather space in the midfield ; from 1/10/11 (+), diving header but was high on a Jimenez cross; combined with Jimenez with a shoulder pass.  Needs to get better looks (create his shot or get behind the defense) ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), coming off the bench in the second half, after roaming around for much of the time (MOVE Dude!), finally got on the end of a long ball behind A.J. Soares and Ben Sippola but his chip was too high.
• Lebo Pila (St Peter’s) much, much better.  a couple of low hard shots.  combining with Martinez effectively.  very raw, but huge upside.  He’s very athletic.; from 1/10/11 (-), had flashes of pure misery sprinkled with little flickers of hope.  His athleticism is what is going to have to cover him, because he makes many mistakes on positioning, passing. ; From 1/8/11 (-), came out with a plan to destroy anyone who came through the middle.  He may be the first player to be ejected in the combine (from my recollection).  In the second half, either he subbed in (and I missed it) or more likely, he started at center back.  He’s a terrific athlete.
• Davis Paul (Cal) able to get by Smith with a cagey first touch. His shot was off-target ; from 1/10/11 (-), many bad touches.  seemed to be thinking too much rather than just playing – but in an unfamiliar position.  Goes down too easily from contact; From 1/8/11 (-), is a teeny player who buzzes around the field.  While he combined with Herrick, he wasn’t able to generate shots.  He had the first horrific shot in warm-ups that somehow found the stands.
• Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall)  combining well with Pila to generate shots on goal; good driven pass that Jimenez struck on the post.  Can’t recover defensively (or won’t) ; from 1/10/11 (observe), no comments ; From 1/8/11 (-); and Greg King (UConn) were passively trying to work the ball down the left side with inadequate results.  Martinez would occasionally mix in a sweet pass, but much often just turn the ball over.  Martinez tried a phony flick into the box (for the high-light reel).  King didn’t get down to the end-line; probably because he wouldn’t get support from Martinez.
• Dustin McCarty (UNC) good block on Farfan’s shot; from 1/10/11 (adequate), better, started a good attack with a quick turn.  Good horizontal defensive coverage ; From 1/8/11 (-), was casually discarded when he tried to get involved.  He had no positive role in this game.

Who needs to improve?

• Indy Smith (UNCW) was picked on by Paul today.  He lacks quickness; from 1/10/11 (horrific), not a good day, Hertzog beat him with speed, then with quickness. ; From 1/8/11 (-), tried to muscle Sapong off the ball, but was “out-muscled”!  Smith is going to have a hard time staying with strong, fast forwards.
• Steven Perry (ND) never seemed to get comfortable.  would run hard, but wouldn’t hit dangerous shots.  ; from 1/10/11 (observe), didn’t do much except worked on his tan ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), had a tremendous cross to Farfan, but the shot was blocked by Warshaw.  Perry needs to be more impactful.
• Joao Plata trying to do too much, without accomplishing much; from 1/10/11 (+), scored 2 goals (1 from a PK). very right-footed. height is listed as N/A – does this mean not available, non-applicable, near ant-size, nothing aerial, New Ariel (mermaid) ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), scored the first goal at the 2011 combine – this little nugget could win a MLS tweeter contest next year! He drove the ball left to right across the top of the box before hitting the ball back into the near post with his right foot.  Plata was smaller than all the ball kids.  He’s teeny-tiny.  He’s a good passer, but tried to showboat early in the match (with Frankie Heyduk step-overs) but lost the ball out-of-bounds.  Plata is quick.
• Eddie Ababio (UNC) didn’t play high ball well. inconsistent playing central defense.  This trend is consistent in what I’ve observed over the years.  Good game / bad game.  Buyer beware. but I love his speed.; from 1/10/11 (+), MOTM – played center back and was a force, breaking up numerous attacks. ; From 1/8/11 (-), let Keat steal his lunch money (and the ball).  Although with his nifty dribbling, he was able to easily elude Corey Hertzog.
• Greg King (UConn) takes several touches to control the ball.; from 1/10/11 (adequate), able to physically move little Cardozo (too bad MLS MF aren’t all 5′ 5″, had a few good cross, more bad, and his passing was to spaces regardless if Soto could get to it. ; From 1/8/11 (-), and Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall) were passively trying to work the ball down the left side with inadequate results.  King didn’t get down to the end-line; probably because he wouldn’t get support from Martinez.
• Josue Soto (SMU) – poor touch. misplay with Ababio ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), better than the first day.  Was moving better. Still has slow feet.  Tries to make highlight pass out-of-bounds; From 1/8/11 (horrific) has a nice cross, but isn’t a legitimate target for others.  He had a late chance, but didn’t connect on Omproy’s cross to the far post.  The play seems too fast for him under pressure.

Who should consider a couple of days on the beach before starting a regular job?

Who do I need to continue to observe/didn’t do enough today?

• Tyler Lassiter (NC State) no comments ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), Beattie crushed him.  Slick ball skills on the dribble around Kinne.  Needs to play over-all shut-down defense.; From 1/8/11 (-), was de-cleated by Sapong in the open field. Lassiter earned the only yellow on a drag down of Estupinan.  Lassiter seemed to gain confidence and comfort as the day progressed. I’m not worried about Lassiter, I’ve seen him enough to be confident in his play.
• Curtis Ushedo (UAB) no comment ; from 1/10/11 (-), had ball go over his head on a cross. Still a liability with the ball at his feet ; From 1/8/11 (-), has poor foot work, but he is spared the embarrassment, because Anibaba cleans up any mistakes.

Who didn’t play/missing

• Michael Nanchoff (Akron) DNP ; from 1/10/11 (DNP), DNP ; From 1/8/11 (DNP), left groin injury

The first goal was scored by Alex Caskey on a long shot that no one closed on him.  Caskey is a player that I thought could have a break-out combine with his work rate and skill, but has been average at best until today.  The assist was from Levi Houapeu square ball.

The second goal to make the score 2-0 was scored by CJ Sapong.  Bobby Warshaw drove the ball down middle before distributing it wide to Houapeu.  Houapeu fired in a cross that Sapong redirected (at least from my angle).

AdiPower got a goal back by Ryan Kinne in the closing minutes of the half.  Michael Tetteh started the play with a give-n-go with Marlon Ganchozo.  Tetteh straddling the line, crossed the ball back to Kinne who one-timed it past the goal keeper.

1st half (Jabulani Green)

F: Paolo Cardoza, CJ Sapong (JMU)

M: Junior Burgos (Cal-Poly), Matt Gold (OSU), Alex Caskey (Davidson), Levi Houapeu (UMBC)

D: Chris Taylor (Tulsa), Bobby Warshaw (Stanford), Colin Givens (MSU), Billy Cortes (MD)

GK: Bryan Meredith (Monmouth)

2nd half (Jabulani Green)

F: Victor Estupinan

M: Justin Meram (Michigan), Martin Rivas, Alex Caskey (Davidson), Blake Brettschneider (USC)

DM: Bob Warshaw (Stanford)

D: Chris Taylor (Tulsa), Billy Cortes (MD),  Konrad Warzycha (OSU), Jon Okafor (Brown)

GK: Bryan Meredith (Monmouth)

1st half (adiPower Red)

F: Corey Hertzog (PSU), Ryan Kinne (Monmouth)

M: Marlon Ganchozo, Servando Carrasco (Cal), Karl Reddick (BC), Steven Beattie (N KY)

D: Michael Tetteh (UCSB), A. J. Soares (Cal), Rich Balchan (IU), Chris Korb (Akron)

GK: Joe Willis (Denver)

2nd half (adiPower Red)

F: Corey Hertzog (PSU), Ryan Kinne (Monmouth)

M:  Matt Marcin (Providence), Ashley McInnes (Tulsa), Servando Carrasco (Cal), JC Banks (UWGB)

D: Michael Tetteh (UCSB), A. J. Soares (Cal), Rich Balchan (IU), Ben Sippola (Butler)

GK: Joe Willis (Denver)

came on as a sub, Michael Boxall (UCSB),

ASSESSMENT

The third day is a day where the players are tired and are being asked to play in different situations.

Who had a good game (or played better than I expected)?

• Rich Balchan (IU) loved the way that he partolled the central defense. good tackler. good dribbler.  MOTM (maybe?). ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), good dribbling, beat Murray and was able to get into the meat of the defense.  Good balance on 1v1 defending.  Average defensive heading ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), got forward adequately and intercepted several passes late in the first half.
• Corey Hertzog (PSU) very active, involved with the attack. split the double-team getting the ball to Carrasco. long shot was tipped over the cross-bar. Good square to Kinne – shot at the goal keeper. ; from 1/10/11 (+), different Hertzog.  Found Indy Smith and claimed him as his whipping boy.  When Smith moved to the right central back so did Hertzog. He needs to get physically stronger ; From 1/8/11 (-), best plays were tracking back.  He didn’t do anything positive in the attack.  His best asset was allowing Pila to knee him in the groin to allow the other players to get a few minutes break.
• Ryan Kinne (Monmouth) scored the lone goal.  very active, but needs to be quicker.  Works hard, shoots with both feet ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), was better on both sides of the ball. good cross to Marcin, but his shot was blocked.  Had a look, took the shot, gk caught it. set up Ampaipitakwong for a shot that the goal keeper tipped ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), wasn’t moving with confidence.  He was combining with Keat very well. Kinne didn’t attack the goal sufficiently.
• Colin Givens (MSU) consistently steps up and makes the defensive play.  Uses his body well.; from 1/10/11 (+), co-incidence that when he departed from the game that green surrendered 2 goals, I think not.  He tracks the ball well; makes the defensive plays provided to him; From 1/8/11 (adequate), tracked over to stop an attack for Sarkodie.  I liked Givens defensive positioning.
• Joe Willis (Denver) huge stops late in the game.  moves very well.  let in 2 goals but that is more of the defense letting him down. ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), allowed 2 goals in 2nd half; From 1/8/11 (+), made several good stops to maintain the shut out.
• CJ Sapong (JMU) scored a goal on a deflection.  high work rate.  giving tremendous effort.  Needs to finish his chances better.  ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), working very hard on both sides of the ball, but being neutralized by Ababio; From 1/8/11 (+), was the second best player at the combine (after Anibaba).  He was explosive.  He got into the open field and de-cleated Tyler Lassiter on a beautiful, efficient move.  He needs to show that he can create his own shot which he didn’t do today.
• Alex Caskey (Davidson) today is what I expected to see from him.  scored a goal because no one closed on him.  more importantly he was moving off the ball – combining with Cardozo.  Stealing the ball from Kinne.  tried to force things that weren’t there; from 1/10/11 (adequate), better. but wasn’t able to get by Ababio’s strength.  he was moving without the ball better and playing better balls – still a long shot; From 1/8/11 (-), was a player that I expected would surprise many, but just never got involved and he didn’t mesh successfully with Warzycha. He destroyed Perry on a tackle, but I wanted to see him be more involved in the attack and he wasn’t.
• Levi Houapeu (UMBC) made an explosive diagonal run, held his balance off a physical challenge. Had both assists.  Burst around the corner but was over the end line.  Overall – not a good combine.; from 1/10/11 (-), not able to beat anyone 1v1.  This is not the same player that I’ve seen for the last 2 years. Yells loudly for the ball with tremendous urgency.  He needs to find a way to get separation and for him and Sapong to combine much more effectively. ; From 1/8/11 (-), wasn’t able to break down Duckett.  He needs to work harder on the defensive side.  I expected him to combine better with former team-mate (DCU friendly) CJ Sapong.  Houapeu was able to get to the end-line but his cross was too close to the goal line.

Who was adequate?

• A. J. Soares (Cal) good on defense – but mis-hit a low corner ; from 1/10/11 (+), better. much more defensively assertive.  good 1v1 defense with Adlard. smart chest trap, because no pressure.  Confident on the ball. battled Bruin in the air; From 1/8/11 (-), passing was poor including without pressure.  His coverage was spotty.  His clearance was blocked by Herrick, because he took to long to release the ball.
• JC Banks (UWGB) good cross to Hertzog (off-target) good dribbling – good passing; from 1/10/11 (-), not able to generate much scoring opportunities in his half of play ; From 1/8/11 (+), had several incisive crosses into the box but weren’t converted.
• Michael Boxall (UCSB) much better – hit a header from Carrasco. good defensive heading. ; from 1/10/11 (-), brutal game for Boxall, gave up the PK, and didn’t help on the game winner. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was a force in the air and his passing was fairly good.
• Servando Carrasco providing only tacit pressure. good dribble and good passing with pressure. much more attack-oriented.  Nice free kick that found Boxall’s head.; from 1/10/11 (adequate), his defensive stop led to the first goal. Sits very deep.  Good defender ; From 1/8/11 (observe), no notes.
• Matt Marcin (Providence) nice cross late in the game that went for a corner kick. had a couple of nice steals.  this is what I expected to see from him.  ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), plays hard defense, but was pushed off the ball by Campbell. Dispossessed Braga numerous times. Does not head the ball to a target.; From 1/8/11 (observe), I thought he didn’t play until I finally noticed near the end of the half that he had played the entire half.
• Chris Korb (Akron) got forward with some slick dribbling just outside the box. ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), better. got forward (with team down by 3), crossing the ball into the box and even had a powerful shot that went for a corner kick ; From 1/8/11 (-), had lapses of concentration missing the ball on traps.  He seemed unduly nervous in the first half.
• Steven Beattie (N KY) willing to play both sides of the ball.  telegraph’s his passes. He has heart. hit a full volley with power and dipping too high.  He’s going to be drafted. ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), had an assist.  seemed to calm down – played better; From 1/8/11 (-), didn’t know how to combine with anyone and seem over-anxious to try to impress, make the soccer hall-of-fame and be MLS player of the year in this one game.  He never got comfortable and doing the things he does well.
• Michael Tetteh (UCSB) started the play (with the assist) that led to the goal.  quick. knows how to build out of the back.; from 1/10/11 (adequate), made 1 foray forward taking a long-hopeful shot; From 1/8/11 (adequate), is small, but like a chihuahua doesn’t realize his size – and hits hard.  He’s quick and plays good defense, but I wonder if he can withhold the rigors of MLS attackers and a long season.  Also, Tetteh, you haven’t been able to wear earrings on the field, why do you need to have the ref tell you to take them out.
• Efrain Burgos (Cal-Poly) not sharp – good corner kick that Caskey flicked on; from 1/10/11 (+), inconsistent free kicks, 1 was beautiful right to the back post (no one fought to get to it). Another hit the wall.  Driven diagonal, can switch the point of attack ; From 1/8/11 (+), hit a cracker that struck the post.
• Paolo Cardozo bad free kick hit wall. good diagonal ball to Estupinan hit wide ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), was pushed around by diminutive Greg King.  He’s fluid on the ball.  He knows how to play ; From 1/8/11 (+), the insertion of himand Victor Estupinan changed the complexion of the game.  Cardozo is small, but has confidence on the ball.  He scored the winning goal on a nice touch in the box and buried the shot.  He seemed focused on combining with Estupinan.
• Victor Estupinan received ball 1v1 touched it but goal keeper made good play to stop goal.  bad free kick, too far too ambitious too high; from 1/10/11 (adequate), inconsistent on his touch, weak left foot shot; From 1/8/11 (+), the insertion of him and Paolo Cardozo changed the complexion of the game.  Cardoza seemed focused on combining with Estupinan. Estupinan times his runs well and has a nose for the goal.  He was the best international in the long run
• Bryan Meredith (Monmouth) can’t be blamed on the single goal.  Still I don’t like the way he moves compared to Willis ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), didn’t get scored upon in his half (hint. buy Givens a beer). Got down on a shot from Rooney and knocked it wide ; From 1/8/11 (-), should have done better on the first goal.  He needs to improve his ball skills.
• Billy Cortez (MD)  late sub for Sarkodie at right. misplayed high ball – shielded Ganchozo off the ball – played center back for the first time in his life (probably); from 1/10/11 (-), just kicking the ball, allowed Jimenez to steal the ball from him; From 1/8/11 (adequate), looked clumsy on the ball earlier, but did better later.
• Justin Meram (Michigan) Doesn’t like physical play.  good vision to serve a long ball in that Estupinan. pass to Estupinan that he was too slow to release shot. Dispossessed by Sippola, but got back to regain possession. ; from 1/10/11 (-), bad day for Team Meram.  He couldn’t beat anyone excluding Ushedo.  Shut down by Ababio ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was confident on the ball and he is not shy to take a shot.  He can create a shot.
• Chris Taylor (Tulsa) good tackle on Sippola ; from 1/10/11 (-), let’s end the Taylor as a center back experiment now.  didn’t know how to move around; From 1/8/11 (adequate), has an active work rate. He served a nice cross that Estupinan tried a flying side volley.

Who needs to improve?

• Marlon Ganchozo better – but I’m not sure that it’s possible to have played worse.  Still not consistent. shot on goal. – but had an horrific square ball into the middle of all of the opponents.  ; from 1/10/11 (horrific), is over his head.  The worst player in this game.  Unceremoniously removed after playing less than his half.  I think the coach saw that the team had come back 2-3 and wanted to give his team a chance for the draw. MLS  – please end the Ganchozo experiment.; From 1/8/11 (horrific), best part of his game is his hair.  He had the dreaded swing-n-miss. He was a detriment on the field.
• Ben Sippola (Butler) too slight. over his head. was able to get around the corner as the right back, but was tracked down by Meram. Good body defensive body positioning to shield ; from 1/10/11 (-), lost Grossman in the box for the first goal. but he wasn’t stopping anyone coming through the middle (did make 1 defensive stop on Braga ; From 1/8/11 (-), looked lost in the middle of the field.  He held an attacker on-side because he surrendered ground needlessly.
• Ashley McInnes (Tulsa) stole the ball from Caskey – but didn’t add much to the attack.  I question his fitness, is his heart in this?  He was much better the couple of times that I’ve seen him at Tulsa ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), had a pair of wild shots 1 was from very far out and the second was so far off target that it almost hit the ball kid.  stole the ball from Murray, jump starting an attack to Banks and Ampaipitakwong; From 1/8/11 (-), didn’t aggressively attack – he seemed too laid-back. Perhaps, he was attempting to show cool confidence instead it came to me as passive.
• Jon Okafor (Brown) athletic without the ball, clumsy with.  doesn’t track high balls well. good diagonal passing.; from 1/10/11 (adequate), not a right back, had a ball go over his head. bad free kick unforced.  When moved up to his more familiar midfield, did much better ; From 1/8/11 (+), showed previously unnoticed speed (with purpose).  Additionally, he did this while breezing into the box with the ball at his feet and defenders around.  He made a dumb play putting his hand up to slow the ball – “the hand of DOG”? even blind people saw the play.  I need to watch his crossing.
• Matt Gold (OSU) horrible square ball that turned into a dangerous transition – luckily it was such Gonchozo. Seemed slow; from 1/10/11 (adequate), I’ve seen him play better – but he wasn’t horrible.  I’d like to see him have more of an impact.  Played right back late in second half and was adequate; From 1/8/11 (adequate), made a good run into the box from his deep midfield.
• Konrad Warzycha (tOSU) played center back uninspired; from 1/10/11 (-), allowed a ball to go by him that wound up a goal.  Must use his right foot to attack.  Lost Rooney for first goal. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), scored the first goal on a rebound but he needs to combine better.
• Bobby Warshaw (Stanford) long run from the back set up the game winning goal. had problems marking attackers(specifically Kinne). I have a bad feeling about this one – Obi-Wan; from 1/10/11 (-), negatively involved on both goals (slid as Rooney’s shot went into the goal.  just didn’t do too much positive; From 1/8/11 (adequate), didn’t seem to do well, but as I reviewed my notes, he kept blocking shots.  He’s a target on corner kicks. His passing was not up to his standard.
• Blake Brettschneider (USC) bad cross weak left foot. good tackle on Balchan, though it was more because Balchan pushed the ball too far and it looked like Brettschneider was in slo-slo-slo motion ; from 1/10/11 (horrific), Not very good in either moving with the ball, with his first touch or passing.  Estupinan is not going to give him the ball again after he kept losing it. He reminds me of a poor-mans George Josten (Gonzaga) – he was so successful. ; From 1/8/11 (need to observe), only played 2nd half and no notes.

Who should consider a couple of days on the beach before starting a regular job?

• Karl Reddick (BC) fell asleep and Cardoza stole the ball from him – given that he’s been sleep-walking through this combine, it’s apropo; from 1/10/11 (-), horrific miss after corner kick in his box ; From 1/8/11 (-), was not comfortable-looking at right back.  His dribbling was erratic.

Who do I need to continue to observe/didn’t do enough today?

• Martin Rivas no comment ; from 1/10/11 (-), not clean with their touch creating turn-overs. poor defense on Paul. Poor decisions on passes and poor execution of his passing ; From 1/8/11 (need to observe), played deep midfield in the second half but not much noticed.

Who didn’t play/missing

• Anthony Ampaipitakwong (Akron) DNP; from 1/10/11 (adequate), found space underneath, but his team mates weren’t finding him. defensive stop on Grossman in the box.   ; From 1/8/11 (-), makes a nice pass, but he doesn’t follow or provide other to be creative with him as a target.  He needs to be cognizant of his defensive responsibilities.
• Daniel Keat (Dartmouth) DNP? ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), working off the ball well, good passing and hard tackles. His pass was blocked leading to the winning goal at midfield. ; From 1/8/11 (+),  linking with the midfielders and making some hard tackles to win the ball.  I love his tenacious-ness.
• Kofi Sarkodie (Akron) DNP ; from 1/10/11 (adequate), had a good cross which I’m told he is unable to do. quick defensive feet , but his first touch was not sharp; From 1/8/11 (+), demonstrated at the kick-off why he’s a special player.  He “zoomed”  down the line that just demonstrated the speed difference between him and everybody else. He got a cross into the box that Ford tipped to the top of the box for the first goal.  His thigh trap was sloppy – I want the ball to go down softly, not go up even a little.  I liked the tenacious defense to track Farfan across the field.

The first AdiPower goal was scored by Cole Grossman from a square ball by Will Bruin early in the game.

Joao Plata scored the second goal on a penalty kick that was earned by Bruin battling Michael Boxall.  Boxall had the ball but Bruin was able to knock him off the ball and Boxall brought him down.

Bruin fed Plata in the box and Plata slotted the ball into the net.

Corey Hertzog scored the first AdiPower goal.  Steven Beattie served a ball behind Indy Smith that Hertzog beat Ford to and slotted the ball into the open net.

Corey Hertzog scored the second goal.  This time, Hertzog and Kinne were working the ball forward and when Hertzog got into the box, turned on Smith and fired the ball into the far post.

1st half (adiPower Red)

F: JC Banks (UWGB), Anthony Ampaipitakwong (Akron)

M:  Matt Marcin (Providence), Ben Sippola (Butler), Daniel Keat (Dartmouth), Ashley McInnes (Tulsa),

D: Michael Tetteh (UCSB), A. J. Soares (Cal), Michael Boxall (UCSB),Karl Reddick (BC)

GK: Jimmy Maurer (USC)

2nd half (adiPower Red)

F: Steven Beattie (N KY), Corey Hertzog (PSU)

M: Marlon Ganchozo, Servando Carrasco (Cal), Anthony Ampaipitakwong (Akron), Ryan Kinne (Monmouth),

D: Chris Korb (Akron), A. J. Soares (Cal), Michael Boxall (UCSB),Rich Balchan (IU)

GK: Jimmy Maurer (USC)

1st half (adiZero blue)

F: Will Bruin (IU), Michael Farfan (UNC)

M: Joao Plata, Stephen McCarthy (UNC), Cole Grossman (Duke), Mathues Braga (PSU)

D: J.T. Murray (Louisville), Leone Cruz (SMU), Tyler Lassiter (NC State), Charlie Campbell (Louisville)

GK: Josh Ford (UConn)

2nd half (adiZero blue)

F: Steven Perry (ND), Amani Walker (UCI)

M: Andy Adlard (IU), Ernesto Carranza (Sac St), Stephen McCarthy (UNC), Tommy Drake (Clemson)

D:  Tyler Lassiter (NC State), Indy Smith (UNCW), Leone Cruz (SMU),  Bilal Duckett (ND)

GK: Josh Ford (UConn)

ASSESSMENT

The second day is important, can’t use the first day jitters excuse. Is there a trend?  I’m more familiar with the numbers/players.

Who had a good game (or played better than I expected)?

• Cole Grossman (Duke) scored 1st goal.  transitions well from defense to offense.  needs to make hard tackles and not rely on finesse. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), playing deep midfield provided a few balls, but he needs to do more.  Additionally, I need to watch his defensive positioning and tackling.
• Ernesto Carranza (Sac State)  very strong on the ball.  good dribbling and trying to get his team mates involved (but not too successfully); From 1/8/11 (adequate), and Matheus Braga (PSU) interchanged between central midfield and left midfield.  Neither was impressive in creating good opportunities.  I expect that both would be pinging balls to the far post that Bruin (and Walker if on the field) would be finishing.
• Joao Plata scored 2 goals (1 from a PK). very right-footed. height is listed as N/A – does this mean not available, non-applicable, near ant-size, nothing aerial, New Ariel (mermaid)  ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), scored the first goal at the 2011 combine – this little nugget could win a MLS tweeter contest next year! He drove the ball left to right across the top of the box before hitting the ball back into the near post with his right foot.  Plata was smaller than all the ball kids.  He’s teeny-tiny.  He’s a good passer, but tried to showboat early in the match (with Frankie Heyduk step-overs) but lost the ball out-of-bounds.  Plata is quick.
• Will Bruin (IU) involved in all 3 goals.  Powerful force.  Took a 30 yard bullet that the goal keeper could only deflect away; From 1/8/11 (adequate), had a few chances including an Adlard cross that he put wide.  Bruin showcased his surprising quickness.  I’d like to see him and Walker up-top together.
• A. J. Soares (Cal)  better. much more defensively assertive.  good 1v1 defense with Adlard. smart chest trap, because no pressure.  Confident on the ball. battled Bruin in the air; From 1/8/11 (-), passing was poor including without pressure.  His coverage was spotty.  His clearance was blocked by Herrick, because he took to long to release the ball.
• Corey Hertzog (PSU)  different Hertzog.  Found Indy Smith and claimed him as his whipping boy.  When Smith moved to the right central back so did Hertzog. He needs to get physically stronger ; From 1/8/11 (-), best plays were tracking back.  He didn’t do anything positive in the attack.  His best asset was allowing Pila to knee him in the groin to allow the other players to get a few minutes break.

Who was adequate?

• Tyler Lassiter (NC State)  Beattie crushed him.  Slick ball skills on the dribble around Kinne.  Needs to play over-all shut-down defense.; From 1/8/11 (-), was de-cleated by Sapong in the open field. Lassiter earned the only yellow on a drag down of Estupinan.  Lassiter seemed to gain confidence and comfort as the day progressed. I’m not worried about Lassiter, I’ve seen him enough to be confident in his play.
• Stephen McCarthy (UNC) started out much more composed, then started slowing down his running and the ball.  intimidating force in the air ; From 1/8/11 (-), played a slow, soulless match.  His passing was pathetic.  He’s thinking too much.  With his teammate in the middle I expected a much better performance.  Then, again, he’s already signed, so he’ll be drafted.
• Charlie Campbell (Louisville)  playing much more physically and with more urgency.  good defensive positioning on Tetteh, but giving too much space trying to force the pass rather than getting beat by speed.  Good in the air; From 1/8/11 (-), got a shot off, but looked to be stationed as more of a forward than a wide midfielder. I’d like to see more work rate and combining with his midfielders.  Additionally, I’d like to see him get around the corner.
• Michael Farfan (UNC) disappeared for much of the half, occasionally popping up to get involved. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was involved early but seemed to fade out as the match continued.  He had a shot that was blocked by Warshaw.  He combined with Plata to get behind the defense, but the GK got to the Plata pass.  Farfan needs to take more responsibility for the play.
• Servando Carrasco his defensive stop led to the first goal. Sits very deep.  Good defender ; From 1/8/11 (observe), no notes.
  J.T. Murray (Louisville) mixed results today, made a few stops, but some of his passes were intercepted.; From 1/8/11 (+), crossed well, got forward appropriately and may be the best left back at the combine.  Not unexpected, he drove a diagonal for Bilal Duckett, but Duckett didn’t continue his run.
• Matt Marcin plays hard defense, but was pushed off the ball by Campbell. Dispossessed Braga numerous times. Does not head the ball to a target.; From 1/8/11 (observe), I thought he didn’t play until I finally noticed near the end of the half that he had played the entire half.
• Chris Korb (Akron) better. got forward (with team down by 3), crossing the ball into the box and even had a powerful shot that went for a corner kick ; From 1/8/11 (-), had lapses of concentration missing the ball on traps.  He seemed unduly nervous in the first half.
• Ashley McInnes (Tulsa)  had a pair of wild shots 1 was from very far out and the second was so far off target that it almost hit the ball kid.  stole the ball from Murray, jump starting an attack to Banks and Ampaipitakwong; From 1/8/11 (-), didn’t aggressively attack – he seemed too laid-back. Perhaps, he was attempting to show cool confidence instead it came to me as passive.
• Steven Beattie (N KY) had an assist.  seemed to calm down – played better; From 1/8/11 (-), didn’t know how to combine with anyone and seem over-anxious to try to impress, make the soccer hall-of-fame and be MLS player of the year in this one game.  He never got comfortable and doing the things he does well.
• Anthony Ampaipitakwong (Akron) found space underneath, but his team mates weren’t finding him. defensive stop on Grossman in the box.   ; From 1/8/11 (-), makes a nice pass, but he doesn’t follow or provide other to be creative with him as a target.  He needs to be cognizant of his defensive responsibilities.
• Ryan Kinne (Monmouth) was better on both sides of the ball. good cross to Marcin, but his shot was blocked.  Had a look, took the shot, gk caught it. set up Ampaipitakwong for a shot that the goal keeper tipped ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), wasn’t moving with confidence.  He was combining with Keat very well. Kinne didn’t attack the goal sufficiently.
• Michael Tetteh (UCSB) made 1 foray forward taking a long-hopeful shot; From 1/8/11 (adequate), is small, but like a chihuahua doesn’t realize his size – and hits hard.  He’s quick and plays good defense, but I wonder if he can withhold the rigors of MLS attackers and a long season.  Also, Tetteh, you haven’t been able to wear earrings on the field, why do you need to have the ref tell you to take them out.
• Rich Balchan (IU) good dribbling, beat Murray and was able to get into the meat of the defense.  Good balance on 1v1 defending.  Average defensive heading  ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), got forward adequately and intercepted several passes late in the first half.
• Daniel Keat (Dartmouth)  working off the ball well, good passing and hard tackles. His pass was blocked leading to the winning goal at midfield. ; From 1/8/11 (+),  linking with the midfielders and making some hard tackles to win the ball.  I love his tenacious-ness.
  

Who needs to improve?

• Leone Cruz (SMU) good in the air. long ball to no one. first touch on a break-away put the ball in the path of Banks rather into a more favorable position.  ; From 1/8/11 (observe), no notes on his play in the 2nd half.
• Josh Ford (UConn) came out and didn’t get the ball – can’t allow that to happen.  good in the air, but needs to hold the ball and not just deflect it wide.; From 1/8/11 (-), moves well.  He forced a break-away very wide with his feet, but it wound up going for a goal.  Ford hesitates on his first step coming out – in the second half.  Duckett didn’t do Ford any favors on a high hard ball back to him that Ford didn’t handle very well.  Ford needs to cleanly catch Sarkodie’s cross that led to the first goal.
• Matheus Braga (PSU) isn’t moving well.  holding the ball too long and getting dispossessed. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), and Ernesto Carranza (Sac State) interchanged between central midfield and left midfield.  Neither was impressive in creating good opportunities.  I expect that both would be pinging balls to the far post that Bruin (and Walker if on the field) would be finishing.  Braga needs others around him to be effective.
• Tommy Drake (Clemson) poor performance. lacking concentration mis-played several ball; From 1/8/11 (adequate), created space and was able to get the cross away but Warshaw made a good play to block the cross for a corner kick.  Everybody likes the Drake.
• Andy Adlard (IU) not able to generate any offense. drifted forward resulting being in the way of Perry (the forward) ; From 1/8/11 (+), crossed the ball into the box in the second half on several occasions that weren’t finished.
• Amani Walker (UCI) ineffective.  Tried playing below Perry. Poor head flick – out-of-bounds. Free-kick off target, but dangerous low and just wide. ; From 1/8/11 (+), used his big body in the box, including getting a shot off in the first half that was deflected.  I like Walker the closer that he gets to the goal – I’m positive that playing him as a withdrawn forward playing at Drake limited his effectiveness.  He tracked down the ball into the corner and provided service to Plata but he mis-hit the shot.
• Karl Reddick (BC) horrific miss after corner kick in his box ; From 1/8/11 (-), was not comfortable-looking at right back.  His dribbling was erratic.
• Ben Sippola (Butler) lost Grossman in the box for the first goal. but he wasn’t stopping anyone coming through the middle (did make 1 defensive stop on Braga ; From 1/8/11 (-), looked lost in the middle of the field.  He held an attacker on-side because he surrendered ground needlessly.
• Jimmy Maurer (USC)  erratic play calling for ball but having to use his thigh and then follow with a wild clearance ; From 1/8/11 (-), needs to convince teams that his height is not a reason to bypass him.  He called for a cross and the ball went over his head.  He wasn’t faced with a shot that he needed to stop that was extraordinary.  I still like Maurer.
• JC Banks (UWGB) not able to generate much scoring opportunities in his half of play ; From 1/8/11 (+), had several incisive crosses into the box but weren’t converted.
• Michael Boxall (UCSB) brutal game for Boxall, gave up the PK, and didn’t help on the game winner. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was a force in the air and his passing was fairly good.

Who should consider a couple of days on the beach before starting a regular job?

• Indy Smith (UNCW) not a good day, Hertzog beat him with speed, then with quickness. ; From 1/8/11 (-), tried to muscle Sapong off the ball, but was “out-muscled”!  Smith is going to have a hard time staying with strong, fast forwards.
• Marlon Ganchozo’s  is over his head.  The worst player in this game.  Unceremoniously removed after playing less than his half.  I think the coach saw that the team had come back 2-3 and wanted to give his team a chance for the draw. MLS  – please end the Ganchozo experiment.; From 1/8/11 (horrific), best part of his game is his hair.  He had the dreaded swing-n-miss. He was a detriment on the field.

Who do I need to continue to observe/didn’t do enough today?

• Steven Perry (ND) didn’t do much except worked on his tan ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), had a tremendous cross to Farfan, but the shot was blocked by Warshaw.  Perry needs to be more impactful.
• Bilal Duckett (ND) no comment; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was adept at turning with Houapeu pressuring.  Duckett held his own against the quickness of Houapeu.  I thought that Duckett was more of a central player, that he might be able to play right back is a plus.

Who didn’t play/missing

The first goal was scored by John Rooney early in the second half.  The play was made by Matt Eliason tracking down a long ball, getting his head up quickly and squaring a ball to Rooney in the box.  Rooney’s first touch was toward the passer making Bobby Warshaw lose his footing and Rooney’s second touch was into the near post.

The second goal was a defensive brain fart.  Demetrius Omphroy served a low diagonal ball from the corner of the top of the box to the far post, both Warshaw and Konrad Warzycha both watched the ball but neither did anything more.  Jason Herrick jumped on the easy ball and finished it from 1 yard.  Very opportunistic goal.

1st half (adiPure  White)

F: Davis Paul (Cal), Matt Eliason (NW)

M: Josue Soto (SMU), John Rooney, Dustin McCarty (UNC), Hector Jimenez (Cal)

D: Greg King (UConn), Jalil Anibaba (UNC), Curtis Ushedo (UAB), Demetrius Omphroy (Cal)

GK: Jeff Attinella (USF)

2nd half (adiPure White)

F: Jason Herrick (MD), Matt Eliason (NW)

M: Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall), John Rooney, Lebogang Pila (St. Peter’s), Josue Soto (SMU)

D: Jeb Brovsky(ND),  Jalil Anibaba (UNC), Eddie Ababio (UNC), Demetrius Omphroy (Cal)

GK: Jimmy Maurer (USC)

1st half (Jabulani Green)

F: Victor Estupinan, Blake Brettschneider (USC)

M: Junior Burgos (Cal-Poly), Paolo Cardoza, Matt Gold (OSU), Martin Rivas

D: Billy Cortes (MD), Bobby Warshaw (Stanford), Colin Givens (MSU), Kofi Sarkodie (Akron)

GK: Bryan Meredith (Monmouth)

2nd half (Jabulani Green)

F: Justin Meram (Michigan), CJ Sapong (JMU)

M: Junior Burgos (Cal-Poly), Konrad Warzycha (OSU), Alex Caskey (Davidson), Levi Houapeu (UMBC)

D: Billy Cortes (MD), Chris Taylor (Tulsa), Bob Warshaw (Stanford), Jon Okafor (Brown)

GK: Joe Willis (Denver)

ASSESSMENT

The second day is important, can’t use the first day jitters excuse. Is there a trend?  I’m more familiar with the numbers/players.

Who had a good game (or played better than I expected)?

• Jason Herrick (MD) scored a goal by savvy at the back post.  He knows how to play, If he had just 1 more gear. ; From 1/8/11 (+), nice quick 1 or 2 touch passes were finding his team mates.  In the 2nd half, Herrick had the best scoring opportunity combining with Demetrius Omphroy (Cal) and Hector Jimenez (Cal).
• Jalil Anibaba (UNC) continues to be the man with his hawking control of the defensive middle. His left foot is geared to find his front-runners ; From 1/8/11 (+), stock rising with a big game in the back and several driven passes.
• Demetrius Omphroy (Cal) got forward once, but his cross was lacking.  He serves very dangerous diagonals including the second goal. ; From 1/8/11 (+), got forward to the end line and jump-start the attack.  Additionally, he made a terrific cross to the far post, but Soto didn’t convert the chance.  I like Omphroy’s wheels.
• Hector Jimenez (Cal) had the best cross with a worming burning pass that found the foot of Soto but was wasted.  Concerns if he could handle the physical MLS midfielders and defenders. shoots hard.; From 1/8/11 (adequate), drifted too central taking away Herrick’s space.  He did combine with Herrick for a good shot.  Jimenez had a rocket of a shot
• John Rooney much more activity playing centrally.  nice turn with pressure.  I like how he transitioned to defense on the corner kicks making a long run for recovery.  Had a nice 30 yard shot that bounced in front of the goal keeper (but was deflected wide), scored a goal in the second half ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), hit a sweet free kick that was goal bound, but was saved by Joe Willis (Denver).
• Matt Eliason (NW) diving header but was high on a Jimenez cross; combined with Jimenez with a shoulder pass.  Needs to get better looks (create his shot or get behind the defense)  ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), coming off the bench in the second half, after roaming around for much of the time (MOVE Dude!), finally got on the end of a long ball behind A.J. Soares and Ben Sippola but his chip was too high.
• Jeb Brovsky (ND) playing left back – did appreciably well, shutting down Houapeu.  Then, stopped Meram.  Tracks the ball well on headers. ; From 1/8/11 (-), tried to get involved in the play, but his passing was inconsistent and his touch creates more problems than opportunities.  He was better in the second half when he made simpler passes.
• Eddie Ababio (UNC) MOTM – played center back and was a force, breaking up numerous attacks. ; From 1/8/11 (-), let Keat steal his lunch money (and the ball).  Although with his nifty dribbling, he was able to easily elude Corey Hertzog.
• Efrain Burgos (Cal-Poly) inconsistent free kicks, 1 was beautiful right to the back post (no one fought to get to it). Another hit the wall.  Driven diagonal, can switch the point of attack ; From 1/8/11 (+), hit a cracker that struck the post.
• Colin Givens (MSU) co-incidence that when he departed from the game that green surrendered 2 goals, I think not.  He tracks the ball well; makes the defensive plays provided to him; From 1/8/11 (adequate), tracked over to stop an attack for Sarkodie.  I liked Givens defensive positioning.

Who was adequate?

• Greg King (UConn) able to physically move little Cardozo (too bad MLS MF aren’t all 5′ 5″, had a few good cross, more bad, and his passing was to spaces regardless if Soto could get to it. ; From 1/8/11 (-), and Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall) were passively trying to work the ball down the left side with inadequate results.  King didn’t get down to the end-line; probably because he wouldn’t get support from Martinez.
• Dustin McCarty (UNC) better, started a good attack with a quick turn.  Good horizontal defensive coverage ; From 1/8/11 (-), was casually discarded when he tried to get involved.  He had no positive role in this game.
• Jeff Attinella (USF) Surprisingly didn’t have much to do with his quality defense in front of him.  ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), made a good play on a Ashley McInnes (Tulsa) cross that he snagged to break-up the play.
• Josue Soto (SMU)  better than the first day.  Was moving better. Still has slow feet.  Tries to make highlight pass out-of-bounds; From 1/8/11 (horrific) has a nice cross, but isn’t a legitimate target for others.  He had a late chance, but didn’t connect on Omproy’s cross to the far post.  The play seems too fast for him under pressure.
• Joe Willis (Denver) allowed 2 goals in 2nd half; From 1/8/11 (+), made several good stops to maintain the shut out.
• CJ Sapong (JMU) working very hard on both sides of the ball, but being neutralized by Ababio; From 1/8/11 (+), was the second best player at the combine (after Anibaba).  He was explosive.  He got into the open field and de-cleated Tyler Lassiter on a beautiful, efficient move.  He needs to show that he can create his own shot which he didn’t do today.
• Jon Okafor (Brown) not a right back, had a ball go over his head. bad free kick unforced.  When moved up to his more familiar midfield, did much better ; From 1/8/11 (+), showed previously unnoticed speed (with purpose).  Additionally, he did this while breezing into the box with the ball at his feet and defenders around.  He made a dumb play putting his hand up to slow the ball – “the hand of DOG”? even blind people saw the play.  I need to watch his crossing.
• Kofi Sarkodie (Akron) had a good cross which I’m told he is unable to do. quick defensive feet , but his first touch was not sharp; From 1/8/11 (+), demonstrated at the kick-off why he’s a special player.  He “zoomed”  down the line that just demonstrated the speed difference between him and everybody else. He got a cross into the box that Ford tipped to the top of the box for the first goal.  His thigh trap was sloppy – I want the ball to go down softly, not go up even a little.  I liked the tenacious defense to track Farfan across the field.
• Paolo Cardozo – was pushed around by diminutive Greg King.  He’s fluid on the ball.  He knows how to play ; From 1/8/11 (+), the insertion of himand Victor Estupinan changed the complexion of the game.  Cardozo is small, but has confidence on the ball.  He scored the winning goal on a nice touch in the box and buried the shot.  He seemed focused on combining with Estupinan.
• Victor Estupinan inconsistent on his touch, weak left foot shot; From 1/8/11 (+), the insertion of him and Paolo Cardozo changed the complexion of the game.  Cardoza seemed focused on combining with Estupinan. Estupinan times his runs well and has a nose for the goal.  He was the best international in the long run.
• Matt Gold (OSU) I’ve seen him play better – but he wasn’t horrible.  I’d like to see him have more of an impact.  Played right back late in second half and was adequate; From 1/8/11 (adequate), made a good run into the box from his deep midfield.
• Alex Caskey (Davidson) better. but wasn’t able to get by Ababio’s strength.  he was moving without the ball better and playing better balls – still a long shot; From 1/8/11 (-), was a player that I expected would surprise many, but just never got involved and he didn’t mesh successfully with Warzycha. He destroyed Perry on a tackle, but I wanted to see him be more involved in the attack and he wasn’t.
• Bryan Meredith (Monmouth) didn’t get scored upon in his half (hint. buy Givens a beer). Got down on a shot from Rooney and knocked it wide ; From 1/8/11 (-), should have done better on the first goal.  He needs to improve his ball skills.

Who needs to improve?

• Lebo Pila (St Peter’s) had flashes of pure misery sprinkled with little flickers of hope.  His athleticism is what is going to have to cover him, because he makes many mistakes on positioning, passing.  ; From 1/8/11 (-), came out with a plan to destroy anyone who came through the middle.  He may be the first player to be ejected in the combine (from my recollection).  In the second half, either he subbed in (and I missed it) or more likely, he started at center back.  He’s a terrific athlete.
• Curtis Ushedo (UAB) had ball go over his head on a cross. Still a liability with the ball at his feet ; From 1/8/11 (-), has poor foot work, but he is spared the embarrassment, because Anibaba cleans up any mistakes.
• Davis Paul (Cal) many bad touches.  seemed to be thinking too much rather than just playing – but in an unfamiliar position.  Goes down too easily from contact; From 1/8/11 (-), is a teeny player who buzzes around the field.  While he combined with Herrick, he wasn’t able to generate shots.  He had the first horrific shot in warm-ups that somehow found the stands.
• Billy Cortez (MD) just kicking the ball, allowed Jimenez to steal the ball from him; From 1/8/11 (adequate), looked clumsy on the ball earlier, but did better later.
• Konrad Warzycha (tOSU) allowed a ball to go by him that wound up a goal.  Must use his right foot to attack.  Lost Rooney for first goal. ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), scored the first goal on a rebound but he needs to combine better.
• Justin Meram (Michigan) bad day for Team Meram.  He couldn’t beat anyone excluding Ushedo.  Shut down by Ababio ; From 1/8/11 (adequate), was confident on the ball and he is not shy to take a shot.  He can create a shot.
• Chris Taylor (Tulsa) let’s end the Taylor as a center back experiment now.  didn’t know how to move around; From 1/8/11 (adequate), has an active work rate. He served a nice cross that Estupinan tried a flying side volley.
• Bobby Warshaw (Stanford) negatively involved on both goals (slid as Rooney’s shot went into the goal.  just didn’t do too much positive; From 1/8/11 (adequate), didn’t seem to do well, but as I reviewed my notes, he kept blocking shots.  He’s a target on corner kicks. His passing was not up to his standard.
• Martin Rivas not clean with their touch creating turn-overs. poor defense on Paul. Poor decisions on passes and poor execution of his passing ; From 1/8/11 (need to observe), played deep midfield in the second half but not much noticed.
• Levi Houapeu (UMBC) not able to beat anyone 1v1.  This is not the same player that I’ve seen for the last 2 years. Yells loudly for the ball with tremendous urgency.  He needs to find a way to get separation and for him and Sapong to combine much more effectively. ; From 1/8/11 (-), wasn’t able to break down Duckett.  He needs to work harder on the defensive side.  I expected him to combine better with former team-mate (DCU friendly) CJ Sapong.  Houapeu was able to get to the end-line but his cross was too close to the goal line.

Who should consider a couple of days on the beach before starting a regular job?

• Blake Brettschneider (USC) Not very good in either moving with the ball, with his first touch or passing.  Estupinan is not going to give him the ball again after he kept losing it. He reminds me of a poor-mans George Josten (Gonzaga) – he was so successful. ; From 1/8/11 (need to observe), only played 2nd half and no notes.

Who do I need to continue to observe/didn’t do enough today?

• Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall) no comments ; From 1/8/11 (-); and Greg King (UConn) were passively trying to work the ball down the left side with inadequate results.  Martinez would occasionally mix in a sweet pass, but much often just turn the ball over.  Martinez tried a phony flick into the box (for the high-light reel).  King didn’t get down to the end-line; probably because he wouldn’t get support from Martinez.

Who didn’t play/missing?

• Michael Nanchoff (Akron) DNP ; From 1/8/11 (DNP), left groin injury

To confirm my recollections on Friday, Sebastian Lletget did not play and he has returned to his team.  Dillion Powers did not play on Friday nor on Sunday, because of an injury.

1H White team:

F: Conor Doyle,

W/D F: Kelyn Rowe

M:Omar Salgado, Moises Orozco, Amobi Okugo, Joe Gyau

D:  Moises Hernandez, Perry Kitchen, Gale Agbossoumonde, Zarek Valentin

G: Zac MacMath

1H Dark shirt team:

F: Alex Zahavi, Bobby Wood

AM: Fabian Huerzeler

M: Conor Shanosky, Korey Veeder, Alex Molano

D: Greg Garza, Sacir Hot, Sebastien Ibeagha, Ethan White

G: Cody Cropper

2H White team:

F: Omar Salgado

M: Bobby Wood, Kelyn Rowe , Joe Gyau

DM: Local Player, Perry Kitchen

D:   Sebastien Ibeagha, Zarek Valentin , Gale Agbossoumonde, Korey Veeder

G: Zac MacMath

2H Dark shirt team:

F: Conor Doyle, Alex Molano

M: Greg Garza, Moises Orozco, Fabian Huerzeler, Local Player

D: Moises Hernandez, Ethan White, Conor Shanosky, Amobi Okugo

G: Cody Cropper

Observations:

The first goal was scored by Conor Doyle in the first half after UCLA freshman Kelyn Rowe hit a hard shot that Cropper was able to stop but he pushed it wide and Doyle was able to hit the shot yards off the line with an acute angle.

The second goal was scored by Bobby Woods on a rebound after Joe Gyau brought down a long cross, beat Moises Hernandez on the dribble and struck a nice shot that hit the post and wound up on Woods foot that he clinically finished.

The third goal was scored by Woods again, hitting the woodwork and going in.

Combine Absentees:

MacMath didn‘t handle a tough ball back from Gale Agbossoumonde to his feet.  He hasn’t been scored upon in the 2 matches that I’ve seen him play.

Zarek Valentin made several delicious crosses.  He played center back in the second half, but I think he’s more dangerous as a right back.

Perry Kitchen was adequate but didn’t do anything special as center back.  He’s going to be a good player.

Omar Salgado is a talented, but very raw player. He has good speed, but is unable to shoot on the run (at top speed).  Rowe set him up but Salgado pulled up and it allowed the goal keeper to close on him.

DCU Homegrown:

Ethan White had another difficult game.  He’s just having problems against speedier players and much higher technical players.  He’s going to be a project, but he has the talent that he should be able to develop.

Conor Shanosky did better, but I want him to move the ball quicker.  He utilizes his height and wins high balls in the middle.

College Players:

Kelyn Rowe did well, but he lacks the quality of the U20 team, but he continues to develop.

Sebastien Ibeagha played wide (and made me uncomfortable to watch him play).  He’s much better in the middle.

Sacir Hot did well, showing more speed (and desire) to get wide to cut down an attack than I thought that he had.

Professional players:

Bobby Woods is very good.  He reads the game exceptionally well.

I like the way that Alex Molano plays – heady, good passing.

The player of the match was Joe Gyau who essentially beat Moises Hernandez into submission. Hernandez should buy a night-light to fight the inevitable nightmares.

Of course, goal keepers rotate as needed.

AdiPower

AdiPure - McCarthy fans stole his jersey!

AdiZero

Jabulani

End

Jabulani has waves of attacking players

1st half (Jabulani )

F: Justin Meram (Michigan), CJ Sapong (JMU)

M: Levi Houapeu (UMBC), Konrad Warzycha (OSU), Alex Caskey (Davidson), Jon Okafor (Brown)

D: Chris Taylor (Tulsa), Colin Givens (MSU), Bob Warshaw (Stanford), Kofi Sarkodie (Akron)

GK: Bryan Meredith (Monmouth)

2nd half (Jabulani )

F: Paolo Cardoza, Victor Estupinan

M: Junior Burgos (Cal-Poly), Matt Gold (OSU), Martin Rivas, Blake Brettschneider (USC)

D: Chris Taylor (Tulsa), Colin Givens (MSU), Bob Warshaw (Stanford), Billy Cortes (MD)

GK: Bryan Meredith (Monmouth)

1st half (adiZero )

F: Steven Perry (ND), Amani Walker (UCI)

M: Joao Plata, Stephen McCarthy (UNC), Michael Farfan (UNC), Tommy Drake (Clemson)

D: J.T. Murray (Louisville), Indy Smith (UNCW), Tyler Lassiter (NC State), Bilal Duckett (ND)

GK: Josh Ford (UConn)

2nd half (adiZero )

F: Will Bruin (IU), Andy Adlard (IU)

M: Mathues Braga (PSU), Ernesto Carranza (Sac St), Cole Grossman (Duke), Charlie Campbell (Louisville)

D: J.T. Murray (Louisville), Leone Cruz (SMU), Tyler Lassiter (NC State), Bilal Duckett (ND)

GK: Josh Ford (UConn)

ASSESSMENT

A terrific or horrific first day isn’t going to make or break a player.

Who had a good game (or played better than I expected)?

J.T. Murray (Louisville) crossed well, got forward appropriately and may be the best left back at the combine.  Not unexpected, he drove a diagonal for Bilal Duckett, but Duckett didn’t continue his run.

Andy Adlard (IU) crossed the ball into the box in the second half on several occasions that weren’t finished.

Amani Walker (UCI) used his big body in the box, including getting a shot off in the first half that was deflected.  I like Walker the closer that he gets to the goal – I’m positive that playing him as a withdrawn forward playing at Drake limited his effectiveness.  He tracked down the ball into the corner and provided service to Plata but he mis-hit the shot.

CJ Sapong (JMU) was the second best player at the combine (after Anibaba).  He was explosive.  He got into the open field and de-cleated Tyler Lassiter on a beautiful, efficient move.  He needs to show that he can create his own shot which he didn’t do today.

Jon Okafor (Brown) showed previously unnoticed speed (with purpose).  Additionally, he did this while breezing into the box with the ball at his feet and defenders around.  He made a dumb play putting his hand up to slow the ball – “the hand of DOG”? even blind people saw the play.  I need to watch his crossing.

Kofi Sarkodie (Akron) demonstrated at the kick-off why he’s a special player.  He “zoomed”  down the line that just demonstrated the speed difference between him and everybody else. He got a cross into the box that Ford tipped to the top of the box for the first goal.  His thigh trap was sloppy – I want the ball to go down softly, not go up even a little.  I liked the tenacious defense to track Farfan across the field.

The insertion of Paolo Cardozo and Victor Estupinan changed the complexion of the game.  Cardozo is small, but has confidence on the ball.  He scored the winning goal on a nice touch in the box and buried the shot.  He seemed focused on combining with Estupinan.

Estupinan times his runs well and has a nose for the goal.  He was the best international in the long run.

Efrain Burgos (Cal-Poly) hit a cracker that struck the post.

Who was adequate?

Joao Plata scored the first goal at the 2011 combine – this little nugget could win a MLS tweeter contest next year! He drove the ball left to right across the top of the box before hitting the ball back into the near post with his right foot.  Plata was smaller than all the ball kids.  He’s teeny-tiny.  He’s a good passer, but tried to showboat early in the match (with Frankie Heyduk step-overs) but lost the ball out-of-bounds.  Plata is quick.

Will Bruin (IU) had a few chances including an Adlard cross that he put wide.  Bruin showcased his surprising quickness.  I’d like to see him and Walker up-top together.

Bilal Duckett (ND) was adept at turning with Houapeu pressuring.  Duckett held his own against the quickness of Houapeu.  I thought that Duckett was more of a central player, that he might be able to play right back is a plus.

Tommy Drake (Clemson) created space and was able to get the cross away but Warshaw made a good play to block the cross for a corner kick.  Everybody likes the Drake.

Steven Perry (ND) had a tremendous cross to Farfan, but the shot was blocked by Warshaw.  Perry needs to be more impactful.

Michael Farfan (UNC) was involved early but seemed to fade out as the match continued.  He had a shot that was blocked by Warshaw.  He combined with Plata to get behind the defense, but the GK got to the Plata pass.  Farfan needs to take more responsibility for the play.

Ernesto Carranza (Sac State) and Matheus Braga (PSU) interchanged between central midfield and left midfield.  Neither was was impressive in creating good opportunities.  I expect that both would be pinging balls to the far post that Bruin (and Walker if on the field) would be finishing.  Braga needs others around him to be effective.

Cole Grossman (Duke) playing deep midfield provided a few balls, but he needs to do more.  Additionally, I need to watch his defensive positioning and tackling.

Billy Cortez (MD) looked clumsy on the ball earlier, but did better later.

Konrad Warzycha (tOSU) scored the first goal on a rebound but he needs to combine better.

Justin Meram (Michigan) was confident on the ball and he is not shy to take a shot.  He can create a shot.

Matt Gold (OSU) made a good run into the box from his deep midfield.

Chris Taylor (Tulsa) has an active work rate. He served a nice cross that Estupinan tried a flying side volley.

Colin Givens (MSU) tracked over to stop an attack for Sarkodie.  I liked Givens defensive positioning.

Bobby Warshaw (Stanford) didn’t seem to do well, but as I reviewed my notes, he kept blocking shots.  He’s a target on corner kicks. His passing was not up to his standard.

Who needs to improve?

Josh Ford (UConn) moves well.  He forced a break-away very wide with his feet, but it wound up going for a goal.  Ford hesitates on his first step coming out – in the second half.  Duckett didn’t do Ford any favors on a high hard ball back to him that Ford didn’t handle very well.  Ford needs to cleanly catch Sarkodie’s cross that led to the first goal.

Indy Smith (UNCW) tried to muscle Sapong off the ball, but was “out-muscled”!  Smith is going to have a hard time staying with strong, fast forwards.

Tyler Lassiter (NC State) was de-cleated by Sapong in the open field. Lassiter earned the only yellow on a drag down of Estupinan.  Lassiter seemed to gain confidence and comfort as the day progressed. I’m not worried about Lassiter, I’ve seen him enough to be confident in his play.

Stephen McCarthy (UNC) played a slow, soulless match.  His passing was pathetic.  He’s thinking too much.  With his teammate in the middle I expected a much better performance.  Then, again, he’s already signed, so he’ll be drafted.

Charlie Campbell (Louisville) got a shot off, but looked to be stationed as more of a forward than a wide midfielder. I’d like to see more work rate and combining with his midfielders.  Additionally, I’d like to see him get around the corner.

Alex Caskey (Davidson) was a player that I expected would surprise many, but just never got involved and he didn’t mesh successfully with Warzycha. He destroyed Perry on a tackle, but I wanted to see him be more involved in the attack and he wasn’t.

Bryan Meredith (Monmouth) should have done better on the first goal.  He needs to improve his ball skills.

Levi Houapeu (UMBC) wasn’t able to break down Duckett.  He needs to work harder on the defensive side.  I expected him to combine better with former team-mate (DCU friendly) CJ Sapong.  Houapeu was able to get to the end-line but his cross was too close to the goal line.

Who should consider a couple of days on the beach before starting a regular job?

Me – at least it’s sounds like a good idea.

Who do I need to continue to observe/didn’t do enough today?

Leone Cruz (SMU) no notes on his play in the 2nd half.

Blake Brettschneider (USC) only played 2nd half and no notes.

Martin Rivas played deep midfield in the second half but not much noticed.

Who didn’t play/missing?

This year fans are being charged $10 per day.  After this game, 1/2 should be dutifully returned.

1st half (adiPower Red)

F: Steven Beattie (N KY), Corey Hertzog (PSU)

M: Ryan Kinne (Monmouth), Anthony Ampaipitakwong (Akron), Servando Carrasco (Cal), Daniel Keat (Dartmouth)

D: Chris Korb (Akron), Michael Boxall (UCSB), A. J. Soares (Cal), Rich Balchan (IU)

GK: Joe Willis (Denver)

2nd half (adiPower Red)

F: Ashley McInnes (Tulsa), Corey Hertzog (PSU)

M: Marlon Ganchozo, Matt Marcin (Providence), Ben Sippola (Butler), JC Banks (UWGB)

D: Michael Tetteh (UCSB), Michael Boxall (UCSB), A. J. Soares (Cal), Karl Reddick (BC)

GK: Joe Willis (Denver)

1st half (adiPure  White)

F: Jason Herrick (MD), Davis Paul (Cal)

M: Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall), Jeb Brovsky(ND), Lebogang Pila (St. Peter’s), Hector Jimenez (Cal)

D: Greg King (UConn), Jalil Anibaba (UNC), Curtis Ushedo (UAB), Eddie Ababio (UNC)

GK: Jeff Attinella (USF)

2nd half (adiPure )

F: Jason Herrick (MD), Davis Paul (Cal)

M: Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall), Dustin McCarty (UNC), Jeb Brovsky(ND), , Hector Jimenez (Cal)

D: Greg King (UConn), Jalil Anibaba (UNC), Curtis Ushedo (UAB), Demetrius Omphroy (Cal)

GK: Jimmy Maurer (USC)

off-the-bench in the 2nd H: John Rooney, Josue Soto (SMU), Matt Eliason (NW)

ASSESSMENT

A terrific or horrific first day isn’t going to make or break a player.

Who had a good game (or played better than I expected)?

• Jason Herrick (MD) – nice quick 1 or 2 touch passes were finding his team mates.  In the 2nd half, Herrick had the best scoring opportunity combining with Demetrius Omphroy (Cal) and Hector Jimenez (Cal).
• Jalil Anibaba (UNC) – stock rising with a big game in the back and several driven passes.
• Demetrius Omphroy (Cal) got forward to the end line and jump-start the attack.  Additionally, he made a terrific cross to the far post, but Soto didn’t convert the chance.  I like Omphroy’s wheels.
• Joe Willis (Denver) made several good stops to maintain the shut out.
• Daniel Keat (Dartmouth) – linking with the midfielders and making some hard tackles to win the ball.  I love his tenacious-ness.
• JC Banks (UWGB) had several incisive crosses into the box but weren’t converted.

Who was adequate?

• Hector Jimenez (Cal) drifted too central taking away Herrick’s space.  He did combine with Herrick for a good shot.  Jimenez had a rocket of a shot
• Jeff Attinella (USF) made a good play on a Ashley McInnes (Tulsa) cross that he snagged to break-up the play.
• John Rooney hit a sweet free kick that was goal bound, but was saved by Joe Willis (Denver).
• Matt Eliason (NW) coming off the bench in the second half, after roaming around for much of the time (MOVE Dude!), finally got on the end of a long ball behind A.J. Soares and Ben Sippola but his chip was too high.
• Rich Balchan (IU) got forward adequately and intercepted several passes late in the first half.
• Michael Boxall (UCSB) was a force in the air and his passing was fairly good.
• Ryan Kinne (Monmouth) wasn’t moving with confidence.  He was combining with Keat very well. Kinne didn’t attack the goal sufficiently.
• Michael Tetteh (UCSB) is small, but like a chihuahua doesn’t realize his size – and hits hard.  He’s quick and plays good defense, but I wonder if he can withhold the rigors of MLS attackers and a long season.  Also, Tetteh, you haven’t been able to wear earrings on the field, why do you need to have the ref tell you to take them out.

Who needs to improve?

• Greg King (UConn) and Brayan Martinez (Seton Hall) were passively trying to work the ball down the left side with inadequate results.  Martinez would occasionally mix in a sweet pass, but much often just turn the ball over.  Martinez tried a phony flick into the box (for the high-light reel).  King didn’t get down to the end-line; probably because he wouldn’t get support from Martinez.
• Lebo Pila (St Peter’s) came out with a plan to destroy anyone who came through the middle.  He may be the first player to be ejected in the combine (from my recollection).  In the second half, either he subbed in (and I missed it) or more likely, he started at center back.  He’s a terrific athlete.
• Curtis Ushedo (UAB) has poor foot work, but he is spared the embarrassment, because Anibaba cleans up any mistakes.
• Dustin McCarty (UNC) was casually discarded when he tried to get involved.  He had no positive role in this game.
• Davis Paul (Cal) is a teeny player who buzzes around the field.  While he combined with Herrick, he wasn’t able to generate shots.  He had the first horrific shot in warm-ups that somehow found the stands.
• Jeb Brovsky (ND) tried to get involved in the play, but his passing was inconsistent and his touch creates more problems than opportunities.  He was better in the second half when he made simpler passes.
• Jimmy Maurer (USC) needs to convince teams that his height is not a reason to bypass him.  He called for a cross and the ball went over his head.  He wasn’t faced with a shot that he needed to stop that was extraordinary.  I still like Maurer.
• Eddie Ababio let Keat steal his lunch money (and the ball).  Although with his nifty dribbling, he was able to easily elude Corey Hertzog.
• Corey Hertzog (PSU) best plays were tracking back.  He didn’t do anything positive in the attack.  His best asset was allowing Pila to knee him in the groin to allow the other players to get a few minutes break.
• Steven Beattie (N KY) didn’t know how to combine with anyone and seem over-anxious to try to impress, make the soccer hall-of-fame and be MLS player of the year in this one game.  He never got comfortable and doing the things he does well.
• Anthony Ampaipitakwong (Akron) makes a nice pass, but he doesn’t follow or provide other to be creative with him as a target.  He needs to be cognizant of his defensive responsibilities.
• Karl Reddick (BC) was not comfortable-looking at right back.  His dribbling was erratic.
• Ben Sippola (Butler) looked lost in the middle of the field.  He held an attacker on-side because he surrendered ground needlessly.
• A. J. Soares (Cal) passing was poor including without pressure.  His coverage was spotty.  His clearance was blocked by Herrick, because he took to long to release the ball.
• Chris Korb (Akron) had lapses of concentration missing the ball on traps.  He seemed unduly nervous in the first half.
• Ashley McInnes (Tulsa) didn’t aggressively attack – he seemed too laid-back. Perhaps, he was attempting to show cool confidence instead it came to me as passive.

Who should consider a couple of days on the beach before starting a regular job?

• Josue Soto has a nice cross, but isn’t a legitimate target for others.  He had a late chance, but didn’t connect on Omproy’s cross to the far post.  The play seems too fast for him under pressure.
• Marlon Ganchozo’s best part of his game is his hair.  He had the dreaded swing-n-miss. He was a detriment on the field.

Who do I need to continue to observe/didn’t do enough today?

• Matt Marcin – I thought he didn’t play until I finally noticed near the end of the half that he had played the entire half.
• Servando Carrasco – no notes.

Who didn’t play/missing?

• Michael Nanchoff (Akron) – left groin injury

Fort Lauderdale, FL – The U20 MNT is practicing in preparation for the U20 CONCACAF qualification in Guatemala in April 2011. With 4 Generation Adidas members of the U20 team not participating in the combine, I wanted to check up on them in lieu of the combine.  The four GA members not participating in the combine are Omar Salgado, Perry Kitchen, Zarek Valentin and Zac MacMath.  I had not previously scouted Salgado.

This was an inter-squad scrimmage with 6 10 minute periods with the squads being liberally interchanged.  Here were the starting line-ups.  The players don’t have numbers and rosters weren’t supplied.  This means that I expect that I’ll get 80% correct (which means I’ll miss 20%!)

There were 3 goal keepers and they alternated playing. I may have missed him, but I don’t recall seeing Sebastian Lletget playing.  Dillion Powers did not play.

Blue pinney team:

F: Conor Doyle, Bobby Wood

M: Alex Zahavi, Amobi Okugo, Alex Molano, Joe Gyau

D: Greg Garza, Perry Kitchen, Gale Agbossoumonde, Zarek Valentin

G: Zac MacMath

Red shirt team:

F: Omar Salgado, Moises Orozco

M: Fabian Huerzeler, Conor Shanosky, Korey Veeder, Kelyn Rowe

D: Moises Hernandez, Sacir Hot, Sebastien Ibeagha, Ethan White

G: Brian Sylvestre

Observations:

The Blue pinney team won 3-0 – but remember that the members were cycling to other positions and to different teams.

The first goal was scored by Alex Molano on a 25 yard free kick that bounced through the box into the far post.

The second goal was scored by Korey Veeder from a Conor Doyle cross that Veeder to put to the far post and neither Ethan White nor Cody Cropper could keep out of the net.

The third goal was scored by Kelyn Rowe to the near post on Cropper.  The play was created because White stepped up but didn’t stop the pass allowing Rowe to get by him and scamper to the goal.

Combine Absentees:

Omar Salgado – he was the only one of the four absentees that I hadn’t seen.  Salgado is very left footed.  I saw him finally use his right foot 75 minutes after practice began (note. after I told my wife about his left-footedness, she noticed that he used his right foot after watching him continuously for 5 minutes).  OK.  Get the point.  He’s very raw.  He is a big player. He can hold the ball well – contesting 2 players he was able to work out of difficulty.  However, my biggest concern is his decision-making.  He had a play receiving the ball 15 yards from the sideline – but rather than feeding his left back running along the side-line, he decided to take on 2 defenders into the middle – losing the ball. He needs coaching on where he needs to put the ball, rather than the low-percentage pass.  I like him; he has talent; but he is not going to be an immediate solution for a team needing a goal scoring target forward.

Perry Kitchen – he played adequately at center back, but he was better (more confident) playing defensive midfield.  He was like a warrior in midfield.

Zarek Valentin – he was ok.  I liked how he got forward.  He’s good on the ball.  For those that think’s he’s small, he’s not.  He ran by me and he must be 5’11′.  I think that his future is as a right back, not because he can’t play CB, but because he’s better as a right back.  I was disappointed that he let a cross get over his head (and still tried to head it).

Zac MacMath – he was outstanding.  He stopped an attack by closing the angle and stopping the 1v1 shot.

DCU Homegrown:

Conor Shanosky – tall player controlling the middle.  He was fine – but not exemplary.   He still has much work to be prepared for starting in MLS.

Ethan White – started as right back, but wasn’t successful, allowing too much space to the wide attacker.  It only got worse with a hand ball that could have been the second PK called against him for the second day in a row.  White lost Rowe which led to a goal.  White needs to think quicker (further ahead) to prevent problems.   White is better in the middle – and I suggest that he won’t see the right back position very soon in an MLS game.

College Players:

Dillon Powers did not play.

Kelyn Rowe scored a goal and was very active on the wide midfield.  He’s very small and may have trouble against physical teams.

Sebastien Ibeagha is a physical player that can easily be mistaken for Gale Agbossoumonde.  He holds his own with other defenders.  Ibeagha has a very bright future.

Sacir Hot did adequately – though his team was scored upon.  Viewing the tape might show more deficiencies.  I liked how he horse-collared Conor Doyle (though a ref on the field may have yellow-carded him).

Professional players:

Alex Molano gets his head up quickly, but he doesn’t distribute the ball quickly enough.

Bobby Wood is good on the ball; actively looking to distribute to the right man.  He’s pretty good!

Moises Hernandez gets forward quickly, but at times is too optimistic on the play and finds his shape weakened by his forward forays.

Moises Orozco is good on the ball.

Joe Gyau is bigger than I remember him.  He’s a danger with his speed and his passing ability.

Korey Veeder is an intriguing player that was able to both defend and provide tremendous service behind the defenders.

Here’s a simple chart of the seven players -

Faider Burbano is a 18-year-old forward from Colombia. He’s been playing professionally for 3 years in the Colombian 2nd division.  Burbano did not play in 2010 according to this ESPN link (but the other tab says he started 6 games in 2010).  In 2010 playing for Deportivo Pasto, DNP but was on the bench for 6 games.  In 2009 playing for Atlético La Sabana,  started 3 games, scored 3 goals on 3 shots (color me skeptical!).  In 2008 playing for Córdoba F.C., played 1 game and scored 2 goals. Again, if a player scores 2 goals, wouldn’t he be playing more.  I think someone is smoking something in Colombia.

Paolo Cardozo is a 21-year-old forward from Ecuador.  In 2010, he played for Quilmes in the Argentian league appearing in 1 match.  He trialed with the Columbus Crew in 2010 according to this link on Wikipedia.

Victor Estupinan (aka Víctor Manuel Estupiñán Mairongo) is a 22-year-old midfielder from Ecuador.  He’s played for LDU Quito (which were the Ecuador 1st Division Champions in 2010). Estupinan (thanks ESPN) started and completed 1 game and appeared off the bench for 5 other games.  He scored 1 goal from 5 shots with 4 shots on goal. Interestingly, he’s committed 3 fouls and been awarded 2 yellows and a red.  He’s done all of this in 164 minutes.  In 2009 with LDU Quito, he played in 11 games with 4 starts, 0 goals and 1 assist.   He was awarded 2 yellows on 1 foul and a single shot that was on goal.  In 2008, he started 6 games finishing 5, with 0 shots and only 1 yellow on 0 fouls.

Marlon Ganchozo (aka Marlon Javier Ganchozo Santana courtesy of Wikipedia) is a 19-year-old midfielder from Ecuador. In 2010, he played for LDU Quito (spelled as Ganchoso per ESPN), starting 15 games with 0 goals, 1 assist and a single shot. Ganchozo is on the Ecuador U20 team.

Joao Plata is a 18-year-old forward from Ecuador.  In 2010, he played for LDU Quito (which were the Ecuador 1st Division Champions in 2010).  Plata (thanks ESPN) started 5 games lasting between half-time up to 62nd minute before appearing off the bench his final 2 games.  He had 1 goal, 0 assists, 3 shots with 2 on goal in 280 minutes this past fall.  Given this information, he seems to be raw – but he’s 18 years old.

Martin Rivas is a 19-year-old forward from Argentina.  He was a guest player for DC United and the Philadelphia Union in the summer of 2010.  I was at the DC United – Portsmouth game (Pompey had to wear DCU kits because their uniforms didn’t arrive in time), Rivas entered the game  in the second half, but didn’t do anything memorable (at least in my memory).  I was unable to find any other information about this player including past clubs, stats, etc.

John Rooney is a 20-year-old forward from England. He’s played for Macclesfield Town in the English League 2 since 2008.  In 2010 in the regular season games, he played in 25 games including 14 starts.  He scored 1 goal and 2 assist from 38 shots with 20 on target.  In 2009, he started 10 games of 14 that he participated with 2 goals and 0 assists on 17 shots with 8 on goal.  In 2008, he started 1 game and came off the bench at another registering 2 shots that weren’t on target and no assists.  Here’s the ESPN link.

Just reviewing this information, I submit that none of these players are going to be an impact player in 2011 such as a FCD David Ferreira.  Instead, these are players that have a chance to make a MLS roster.  With the expanded MLS rosters, I expect that I’ll see more of these players on Sunday morning reserve games than on Saturday night with the first teams.

It’ll be interesting to see the level of play compared to the college players at the combine.

Click here for Overall

Positional rankings:

Click here for Goal Keepers

Click here for Defenders

Click here for Midfielders

Click here for Forwards

Click here for the Alphabetical Player List.

After watching 100 live college soccer games this year, supplemented by another 52 games on tape, composed of 118 different college teams, here is my assessment of the seniors, international invitees and Generation Adidas underclassman. My rankings take into account the values of GA, international status and general assessment of the skill and how each player might fit into a MLS team.

Players that I haven’t seen are generally ranked lower than players that I have seen. I’m from the East coast – so it’s easier for me to see teams in the East. However, I’ve seen UCI, Sacramento State, SMU, Bradley, Cal-Northridge, Cal, San Diego, Tulsa and Drake live. I was unable to see some teams live, I’ve only seen on tape (e.g., Notre Dame, SIUE, Michigan, South Carolina, UCSB). The combine will supplement my prior observations and fill the gaps where needed.

Washington, Cal-Bakersfield and SD State are three teams that I regret not being able to see.

In addition to ranking each player sequentially, I’m assigning a letter grade using the following scale:

A=Can’t miss prospect. Should easily make the roster and may get time with the first team in 2011. By the end of the year, could be an impact player.

B=Likely to make the team. Could make roster, may take a year or more to get to the first team.

C=Probably not going to make the team. Has significant barriers to overcome. A very select few may eventually make it, but it would need to be a perfect storm (multiple injuries, playing out of their heads, fortuitous bounces, etc.).

D=Extremely unlikely to make a team.

F=No shot.

Within each grade, I’ve ranked each player.

This is a work-in-progress. I will be tweaking the rankings through the combine and I as review tape.

Below, I’ve broken out my over-all rankings. Enjoy!

UPDATED: 1/2/2011

After watching 100 live college soccer games this year, supplemented by another 52 games on tape, composed of 118 different college teams, here is my assessment of the seniors, international invitees and Generation Adidas underclassman. My rankings take into account the values of GA, international status and general assessment of the skill and how each player might fit into a MLS team.

Players that I haven’t seen are generally ranked lower than players that I have seen. I’m from the East coast – so it’s easier for me to see teams in the East. However, I’ve seen UCI, Sacramento State, SMU, Bradley, Cal-Northridge, Cal, San Diego, Tulsa and Drake live. I was unable to see some teams live, I’ve only seen on tape (e.g., Notre Dame, SIUE, Michigan, South Carolina, UCSB). The combine will supplement my prior observations and fill the gaps where needed.

Washington, Cal-Bakersfield and SD State are three teams that I regret not being able to see.

In addition to ranking each player sequentially, I’m assigning a letter grade using the following scale:

A=Can’t miss prospect. Should easily make the roster and may get time with the first team in 2011. By the end of the year, could be an impact player.

B=Likely to make the team. Could make roster, may take a year or more to get to the first team.

C=Probably not going to make the team. Has significant barriers to overcome. A very select few may eventually make it, but it would need to be a perfect storm (multiple injuries, playing out of their heads, fortuitous bounces, etc.).

D=Extremely unlikely to make a team.

F=No shot.

Within each grade, I’ve ranked each player.

This is a work-in-progress. I will be tweaking the rankings through the combine and I as review tape.

Below, I’ve broken out my rankings for forwards.

UPDATED: 1/2/2011

After watching 100 live college soccer games this year, supplemented by another 52 games on tape, composed of 118 different college teams, here is my assessment of the seniors, international invitees and Generation Adidas underclassman. My rankings take into account the values of GA, international status and general assessment of the skill and how each player might fit into a MLS team.

Players that I haven’t seen are generally ranked lower than players that I have seen. I’m from the East coast – so it’s easier for me to see teams in the East. However, I’ve seen UCI, Sacramento State, SMU, Bradley, Cal-Northridge, Cal, San Diego, Tulsa and Drake live. I was unable to see some teams live, I’ve only seen on tape (e.g., Notre Dame, SIUE, Michigan, South Carolina, UCSB). The combine will supplement my prior observations and fill the gaps where needed.

Washington, Cal-Bakersfield and SD State are three teams that I regret not being able to see.

In addition to ranking each player sequentially, I’m assigning a letter grade using the following scale:

A=Can’t miss prospect. Should easily make the roster and may get time with the first team in 2011. By the end of the year, could be an impact player.

B=Likely to make the team. Could make roster, may take a year or more to get to the first team.

C=Probably not going to make the team. Has significant barriers to overcome. A very select few may eventually make it, but it would need to be a perfect storm (multiple injuries, playing out of their heads, fortuitous bounces, etc.).

D=Extremely unlikely to make a team.

F=No shot.

Within each grade, I’ve ranked each player.

This is a work-in-progress. I will be tweaking the rankings through the combine and I as review tape.

Below, I’ve broken out my rankings for midfielders. I’ll follow this with rankings of forwards and over-all. Enjoy!

UPDATED: 1/2/2011

After watching 100 live college soccer games this year, supplemented by another 52 games on tape, composed of 118 different college teams, here is my assessment of the seniors, international invitees and Generation Adidas underclassman. My rankings take into account the values of GA, international status and general assessment of the skill and how each player might fit into a MLS team.

Players that I haven’t seen are generally ranked lower than players that I have seen. I’m from the East coast – so it’s easier for me to see teams in the East. However, I’ve seen UCI, Sacramento State, SMU, Bradley, Cal-Northridge, Cal, San Diego, Tulsa and Drake live. I was unable to see some teams live, I’ve only seen on tape (e.g., Notre Dame, SIUE, Michigan, South Carolina, UCSB). The combine will supplement my prior observations and fill the gaps where needed.

Washington, Cal-Bakersfield and SD State are three teams that I regret not being able to see.

In addition to ranking each player sequentially, I’m assigning a letter grade using the following scale:

A=Can’t miss prospect. Should easily make the roster and may get time with the first team in 2011. By the end of the year, could be an impact player.

B=Likely to make the team. Could make roster, may take a year or more to get to the first team.

C=Probably not going to make the team. Has significant barriers to overcome. A very select few may eventually make it, but it would need to be a perfect storm (multiple injuries, playing out of their heads, fortuitous bounces, etc.).

D=Extremely unlikely to make a team.

F=No shot.

Within each grade, I’ve ranked each player.

This is a work-in-progress. I will be tweaking the rankings through the combine and I as review tape.

Below, I’ve broken out my rankings for defenders. I’ll follow this with rankings of midfielders, forwards and over-all. Enjoy!

UPDATED: 1/2/2011

After watching 100 live college soccer games this year, supplemented by another 52 games on tape, composed of 118 different college teams, here is my assessment of the seniors, international invitees and Generation Adidas underclassman. My rankings take into account the values of GA, international status and general assessment of the skill and how each player might fit into a MLS team.

Players that I haven’t seen are generally ranked lower than players that I have seen. I’m from the East coast – so it’s easier for me to see teams in the East. However, I’ve seen UCI, Sacramento State, SMU, Bradley, Cal-Northridge, Cal, San Diego, Tulsa and Drake live. I was unable to see some teams live, I’ve only seen on tape (e.g., Notre Dame, SIUE, Michigan, South Carolina, UCSB). The combine will supplement my prior observations and fill the gaps where needed.

Washington, Cal-Bakersfield and SD State are three teams that I regret not being able to see.

In addition to ranking each player sequentially, I’m assigning a letter grade using the following scale:

A=Can’t miss prospect. Should easily make the roster and may get time with the first team in 2010. By the end of the year, could be an impact player.

B=Likely to make the team. Could make roster, may take a year or more to get to the first team.

C=Probably not going to make the team. Has significant barriers to overcome. A very select few may eventually make it, but it would need to be a perfect storm (multiple injuries, playing out of their heads, fortuitous bounces, etc.).

D=Extremely unlikely to make a team.

F=No shot.

Within each grade, I’ve ranked each player.

This is a work-in-progress. I will be tweaking the rankings through the combine and I as review tape.

Below, I’ve broken out my rankings for goal keepers. I’ll follow this with rankings of defenders, midfielders, forwards and over-all. Enjoy!

Much like the rest of this draft, the goal keepers with realistic MLS expectations are pretty thin.