GAMEPLAN for GAME TWO (or – The Blogger thinks he is a coach)

By: Dave Martinez | October 29th, 2007

KEEP THIS IN MIND

There really is alot to take into account going into Gilette this weekend.

First off, the New England team we saw exiting Giants Stadium with a draw is not the team we will see in Gilette. Thanks, once again, to the horrible playoff rules of this league, the first leg of the home and home is render meaningless, since all the visiting squad has to do is pack the box, play defensive football, and hope for the best. New England did that. And they escaped our home turf in excellent position to strike. Escaped is the key word. And Reis was wiping his brow all night long . . .

Hey, Steve Nicol did say he could neutralize our midfield. I am guessing he was right.

THE LINEUP

Though we looked strong out there, I would be less enthusiastic than mlsnet was in their description of last game – RBNY DOMINATE IN TIE. Lets relax a bit shall we?

Though we once again were playing some variation of a 4-4-2 meets a 4-3-3, I think something more traditional would do the trick.

A clean and even 4-4-2, something where Reyna and Dema could run the middle a bit if necessary.

=========JPA=======ALTIDORE=========
MATHIS===DEMA=====REYNA=====RICHARDS
DVB=====PARKE======STAMMLER==FREEMAN
===========CONWAY=================

Mathis needs to start. It takes a good 10 minutes to get his motors going. He can be subbed if he isnt efficient by the second half. he can drift middle, as always.

DVB can have more room for an open attack.

Stammler in, because of his strong play against New England. I know I have been a Mendes mark all season, but Stammler has earned the spot at this point. After a strong showing, the defense should not be tampered with.

And all in all, look at the balance on either half of the field. I think its a threat on either end.

KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN

Conway barely faced any shots last game. An early bombardment by the home team may be enough surprise to throw us off and take an early advantage.

And what if Waterreus is healthy? Then whom starts?

New England will be much more fluid in attack, and daring in their chances. This will not be a reply of Saturday for damn sure.

Our guys are in a situation where they may have been put to sleep by the opposition. Its like Brazilian football – they lure you in, let you believe you are doing well, . . . . meanwhile, they plot and scheme on the next counter attack, and the minute your guards are down and you are bored out of your mind . . . . BAM! Jogo Bonito.

We cant think we will face the same defensive minded Revolosers this weekend.

We have to be better than that. And we have to be on our toes. Constantly.

KEEP UP THE EMOTION

Did you see Coach Arena jumping out of his seat? Must have been the first time ever for most of us. We need that from our leaders, both on and off the field. Play with passion, but play smart.

==============================================

I will have more as the week goes on, but after 48 hours or so of sulking, its time to move on, and find solutions.