POSITIVES:
1 - More flow in attack. Actually, check dat. Jes say flow in attack because there wasn't no flow before.
2 - A more compact & energetic midfield in general. The midfield is at least trying to deny the opposition space and time when they have the ball. This was much more evident in Tobago than in the Azteca, but still a noticeable and positive difference.
3 - Our wing back deficiencies have slightly improved but it's still an improvement. We still leak holes due to lack of midfield support but it's not as glaring as before.
4 - We're a little fitter in general but still way short of what is required at this level, which is why we BUN so much in the latter part of our matches.
5 - The "new" additions Tinto and Noel have been welcome "surprises". Noel's workrate and overall ability compensates for Yorke's immobility and allows Yorke to play a bit more of the game at his pace...at least initially. Tinto provides another "Cornell Glen" type option to the frontline. Something that was markedly lacking before. Speed and some dribbling ability and as yesterday showed....a pretty decent finish too.
6 - Taking a makeshift team (with all the injuries & suspensions) into the Azteca and ending up with a 2-1 loss shows the coach has some luck and ability on his side. We were thoroughly outplayed, the Mexican's threw away a host of chances, we could have lost 5-1, but we did fight. Kudos to coach and team. Historically, a loss by 6 goals would not have been out of the question.
NEGATIVES:
1 - Our Central defence has regressed. Terribly.
2 - Our defensive discipline overall has also taken a backward step (if that were at all possible)
3 - Our much vaunted strike force can't score. Not necessarily Latas' fault as they haven't scored all Hex but that's a BIG PROBLEM. We supposed to be "deep" in the striking department.
4 - Questionable substitution choices. Taking off Spann and leaving on Yorke in Tobago. Leaving 37 year old Yorke on whole game in the Azteca.
Overall, an improvement in team play and a regression in defence. The result, 2 losses in 2 games. Coach Latapy has done a lot in a short space of time. The man obviously has something but while it's one thing to want T&T to play a certain way...and I am one of those that believe that if you play good football, you'll probably win more than you lose over time.....the game at this level is about results.
Encouraging signs for sure but as injunchile say...honeymoon over. Time fuh results.
My grade....a solid B for Coach Latapy. B fuh Bly.....fuh now.