Clint Mathis prolific scorer?

[Thow]

The more I've watched Mathis this season, the more I realize what an enigmatic player he is. Clint arguably is one of the most talented players America has ever produced, and he's capable of doing things on the field that no other United States' player can duplicate. The problem is that Real hasn't seen any of that yet.

I think it's fair to say that he's not really an attacking midfielder, at least not the type of player that Ellinger wants in that position. Ideally, he'd play as a forward who can drop back into the midfield as he desires. The problem, at least to this point, has been that his partnership with Kreis has been non-existent.

Part of me thinks that perhaps he shouldn't be in the starting XI, but it only takes one instant for the guy to step up and score a spectacular goal or create one.

[Stucki]

Originally Posted by Thow

The more I've watched Mathis this season, the more I realize what an enigmatic player he is. Clint arguably is one of the most talented players America has ever produced, and he's capable of doing things on the field that no other United States' player can duplicate. The problem is that Real hasn't seen any of that yet.

I think it's fair to say that he's not really an attacking midfielder, at least not the type of player that Ellinger wants in that position. Ideally, he'd play as a forward who can drop back into the midfield as he desires. The problem, at least to this point, has been that his partnership with Kreis has been non-existent.

Part of me thinks that perhaps he shouldn't be in the starting XI, but it only takes one instant for the guy to step up and score a spectacular goal or create one.

We have to keep going to him. He has made a few plays, he just hasn't connected on free kicks like we expected him to.

[theholmes]

FInally, others are coming along.

I dont really mean to be an I told you so kind of dude, but Mathis has been pissing me off since the second or 3rd game. I cant remember (because I didnt count) how many times he had a good pass, If only that stupid defender was not in the way. Its not just that the defenders were anticipating the pass (which Clint SHOULD be able to beat anyway). He was making straight arrow passes right to a guy, but there was a defender in between who didnt even have to move to intercept the ball.

And I dont care how much creativity or unpredictability a player has, if he doesnt run he should be on the bench. (Im looking at you Andy Williams). With Cletus and Williams I think we win the award for Attackers Who are Least Likely to Run. I was happy to see him off, and stoked like a dog with a steak to see Watson in. The dude cares about playing, something that Cletus seems to lack.

[huntingfool12]

Im with you, also i think we should try Dispsi at attacking center with Kries and Watson up top. I dont think we need a big man such as Washington who can't dribble up top, as long as we get some speed at their and turn are attack into a short passing game we should be fine.

[Stucki]

Originally Posted by huntingfool12

Im with you, also i think we should try Dispsi at attacking center with Kries and Watson up top. I dont think we need a big man such as Washington who can't dribble up top, as long as we get some speed at their and turn are attack into a short passing game we should be fine.

You are asking us to link passes now? We have clearly shown an ability to do that. 🙄

[bordelais7]

Devil's advocate on Watson: The one major component that he brought to the table was ENERGY. But keep in mind that he has yet to play a full match at MLS top level. Also keep in mind that it's natural for players coming off the bench to bring additional energy. In other words, it's kind of hard to compare Watson and Mathis (or anyone else) at this point based on their play thus far.

I like the kid a lot and think he'll be awesome if he trains hard, but it's hard for me to say that starting him right now would be a great choice. Although I also have trouble comparing him with Mathis because I HATE Clint playing up front. It's obvious to me that if he belongs anywhere this year, it's in the midfield. Especially springing people up the wings. (Speaking of which, more play up the sides, less up the middle, I say.)

Now, motivation-wise, I think it would be very very interesting to see if Clint would play at a different level were he to come off the bench. I think we might just see a different Mathis if he were to come in the game in the 60th.

[Aero]

Originally Posted by bordelais7

I like the kid a lot and think he'll be awesome if he trains hard, but it's hard for me to say that starting him right now would be a great choice.

I totally agree. I like Watson coming off the bench to provide a spark in the last third of the game. I think that is a perfect role for him right now. I'm not sure if he would be as effective as a starter because I don't believe that he can run around the way he does for an entire game. Of course, I could be wrong too. He does play pretty well in the reserves game, but we all know that usually isn't as intense as the real thing.

[Stucki]

Originally Posted by Aero

I totally agree. I like Watson coming off the bench to provide a spark in the last third of the game. I think that is a perfect role for him right now. I'm not sure if he would be as effective as a starter because I don't believe that he can run around the way he does for an entire game. Of course, I could be wrong too. He does play pretty well in the reserves game, but we all know that usually isn't as intense as the real thing.

Were you reading my thoughts before you posted this one?

[Aero]

Originally Posted by mrstucki

Were you reading my thoughts before you posted this one?

Well, I tried, but once I got in your head I became really scared and had to run away and brush my teeth. So, I guess the answer would be kinda. 😉

[Stucki]

Originally Posted by Aero

Well, I tried, but once I got in your head I became really scared and had to run away and brush my teeth. So, I guess the answer would be kinda. 😉

That is awesome, I will have to show this one to my wife. :D