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| Thursday, March 21, 2002 14:40 EST |
MetroStars: 2002 Outlook
[ESPN.com news services]
When All-Star forward Clint Mathis went down with a season-ending knee injury in June of 2001, he took with him most of the MetroStars offense and the club's hopes of repeating as division champions. Intent on avoiding that scenario in 2002, head coach Octavio Zambrano has strengthened his team from front to back.
The Metros' attack will be strengthened by the addition of Diego Serna. |
Joining Mathis up front will be Colombian forward Diego Serna, who earned 2001 Pepsi Best 11 honors when he became only the second player in MLS history to amass at least 15 goals and 15 assists in the same season.
Back for a second season is 2001 Rookie of the Year Rodrigo Faria, who gives Zambrano more insurance should Mathis join the U.S. National Team at the World Cup this summer.
The midfield will again hinge on the health of Tab Ramos, although the re-signing of Ross Paule and continued development of Daniel Hernandez will give the team other options in the center of the field.
Zambrano has tabbed rookie Brad Davis to fill the left flank with the departure of Mark Chung, while Brian Kamler arrives from D.C. United capable of filling in both in the midfield and on defense.
Veteran Marcelo Balboa should provide the team with more leadership and an attacking option from the back while helping to organize talented defenders Mike Petke and Steve Jolley.
Even if Balboa's presence doesn't significantly improve the defense, reigning Aquafina Goalkeeper of the Year Tim Howard is more than capable of posting another league-high 146-save season.
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2001 MetroStars Leaders
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Goals
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8, Rodrigo Faria
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Assists
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7, Daniel Hernandez
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Points
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19, Clint Mathis
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GAA
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1.33 Tim Howard
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Consistent offensive output from right winger Petter Villegas would make the MetroStars a much better team, but if he struggles to find the net Zambrano may be forced to look at other options.
Key Additions:
Marcelo Balboa, Brad Davis, Brian Kamler, Diego Serna
Key Departures:
Mark Chung, Adolfo Valencia, Richie Williams
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