It’s only the third week of the season but Chivas USA could use an inspirational performance in Toronto this weekend after two home losses to start the 2011 campaign.
The Rojiblancos are currently in the midst of a week-long road trip that has seen them travel to Portland, where they were eliminated in US Open Cup qualifying, and now to BMO Field for MLS play on Saturday (1 pm ET, Direct Kick, MatchDay Live in US, TSN in Canada).
Here are three Chivas USA players who will need to step up for the Goats to get a victory in Toronto, which would help them get back on track:
Justin Braun: Last year’s leading scorer has been deployed primarily on the flank during the early part of the season, rather than in the center forward role he held down in 2010.
Braun struggled to make an impact in the first two league matches, but appeared much more comfortable in midweek against Portland. Against the Timbers, he worked admirably to lead the attack and was a constant threat for the opposing defense.
While his distribution and wide play appear to be improving, in order for Chivas USA to be successful, they need him to come through for what he is known for: scoring goals.
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Marcos Mondaini: After a stellar debut in the season-opener, the Argentine struggled with the physicality of the Colorado Rapids, a common factor in the transition for many international players debuting in MLS. However, Mondaini has shown flashes of being able to handle the phyiscal nature of the MLS game.
Against Toronto, Mondaini will likely find more space along the left flank when facing off against TFC right back Dan Gargan, who made his share errors in the match against Portland last week.
As the season wears on, Mondaini will need to make an impact by improving his distribution and connecting better with the center forward, whether it’s Victor Estupinan or Alejandro Moreno.
Zach Thornton: The 2009 Goalkeeper of the Year has not been tested often this year, but will need to perform at an even higher level as the Chivas USA back line takes shape. Each of the four goals conceded by Thornton was the result of defensive errors caused further up field that forced the ‘keeper into action.
With Robin Fraser's game plan centering on defense, the 37-year-old veteran will play a central role. However, if Thornton begins to struggle, Dan Kennedy and Sergio Arias are waiting in the wings, eager to earn a starting spot.
Adam Serrano covers Chivas USA for MLSsoccer.com. He can be reached atadam.m.serrano@gmail.comand on Twitter: @adamserrano
