tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36669930.post363317045189115456..comments2024-03-09T20:37:14.671-06:00Comments on Down the Byline: Expectations High for Sporting this YearMikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12931590118053363115noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36669930.post-15522093003315790202013-02-28T23:54:19.312-06:002013-02-28T23:54:19.312-06:00All those people picking SKC was a grimace-inducin...All those people picking SKC was a grimace-inducing experience.<br /><br />I certainly think we have a solid squad: I expect Top 2 in the East. However, there are plenty of personnel and scheduling reasons why SKC could have enough inconsistent stretches to fall short of the Shield.<br /><br />For this year, it's MLS Cup then CCL advancement then Supporter's Shield then US Open Cup, in my book.<br /><br />Aside from the obvious question of can the forwards finish chances, I am most interested in 3 things.<br /><br />Will the team have more gas in the tank, especially in the final 15 minutes, because of the increase in possession players who will reduce quick turnovers?<br /><br />-Probably.<br /><br />And if they do turn it over, will the midfield of Feilhaber, Nagamura, and Rosell have the tackling bite and precision to slow counterattacks?<br /><br />-Maybe.<br /><br />Without Kei, Cesar & Espinoza, will set pieces still be a net plus or now a vulnerability on defense?<br /><br />-Neutral to negative and the reason CJ must start.Nathan Martinnoreply@blogger.com