3 Hopes and One Fear for Columbus Crew SC
by Nino Torres
1. Consolidation
Last year, with a new coach, under a new ownership, the team not only went back to the playoffs after two previous disappointments, they finished the regular season in third place. This group set the bar high and they are going to fight for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. They added important new pieces to a core of players that know how to play as a unit, a solid one. Head Coach Gregg Berhalter made them believe what they are capable of, they enter this 2015 knowing so.
2. The newcomers are fitting in right
The situation with the new players is unusual, in a good way: Kamara generated almost an instant chemistry with Higuaín, Steindorsson rapidly found the net from both flanks; Grana filled up the right back position with such ease that it seemed like he’s been playing with the team for years, not weeks.
This seamless transition for players in key positions will definitely create a positive impact.
3. The duet, ready for prime time
Tony Tchani and Will Trapp don’t play guitar and you probably won’t see them in American idol, but this midfielder duet is ready for prime time. Trapp got his first cap with the USMNT and is in route to become the best holding midfielder in the League. Tchani’s passing accuracy and decision making evolved tremendously last year. They reached a level of understanding that generates something vital in a team: Balance.
One fear: The lack of depth at the forward position
This is a huge gamble for head Coach Gregg Berhalter. He signed Kei Kamara to be the go to man at front even though the Sierra Leone native hasn’t played an official game since 2013. Kamara looked sharp during the preseason games and he is the fittest guy on the squad. However if he gets injured or does not reach the production required from a true 9, the other two forwards listed on the squad (Aaron Schoenfeld, Adam Bedell) are not MLS ready.
Between Schoenfeld and Bedell, they scored 5 goals in 1320 minutes played. But their case is not about the modest numbers they put, is about skills and fundamentals that are not fully developed yet.
