Carlisle: MLS rookie report

RSLfrontrowfan · 06-02-2006, 01:27 PM

Slow start for '06 class

3. Mehdi Ballouchy, M, Real Salt Lake

One month into the season, it was feared that RSL's choice to take Ballouchy second overall in the draft was a stretch. The Santa Clara product was struggling with a new position at left midfield, and his defensive positioning was at times suspect.

But a brief benching, rather than kill his confidence, has seen Ballouchy raise his game, culminating in his first professional goal on May 20 against Kansas City. In that match, Ballouchy moved into a more central role and flourished, although his play out wide had improved as well. Regardless of where he lines up, RSL fans can now breathe easier that their first round pick is delivering the goods.

7. Willis Forko, D, Real Salt Lake

While much has been made of Ballouchy's progress, at the heart of RSL's recent revival has been a vastly improved defense, and Forko's introduction at left back four weeks ago has been one of the keys.

It can be argued that Forko is only in the lineup because of Eddie Pope's departure for the World Cup, which has seen nominal left back Danny Torres slide into the middle. But if Forko continues his solid play of late, in which he's used his pace to good effect, then head coach John Ellinger may have a selection dilemma when Pope returns.

RSL1 · 06-02-2006, 01:42 PM

No selection dilemma in my mind if that is the case: 4-man back line with Torres and Pope in the middle. Will certainly relieve us of the pain casued by Nelson Akwari/Chris Brown/Carey Talley back there.

Aerick · 06-02-2006, 03:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RSL1

No selection dilemma in my mind if that is the case: 4-man back line with Torres and Pope in the middle. Will certainly relieve us of the pain casued by Nelson Akwari/Chris Brown/Carey Talley back there.

So, we'd be looking at

Novak-Pope-Torres-Forko

Right? Or would we put Nelly in place of Novak?