Tampa Bay Mutiny Preview

Can New Coach Fit 'El Pibe' Into Defensive System?

They have the most recognized player in the league, and they score goals by the bushel-full. But if the Tampa Bay Mutiny don't shore up the defensive end of the pitch, they will suffer a third straight first-round exit from the playoffs.

Coach Alfonso Mondelo was brought in to implement a more conservative system, which no doubt will clash with the exuberant brilliance of Carlos Valderrama in midfield. And it doesn't help Mondelo's cause to lose defender Steve Trittschuh to a broken leg in the final weeks of preseason.

That injury might open the door to first-round SuperDraft pick Craig Demmin, a Trinidadian international, who could join veterans like Joe Addo and Chad McCarty.

Keeper Scott Garlick was the busiest keeper in MLS history, making a record 184 saves last year. Clearly, that status cannot repeat itself.

With Valderrama firmly focused on attack, the midfield is succeptible to counters and defensive breakdowns. But the benefits at the other end are unquestioned. At 38, 'El Pibe' dished out a MLS-record 26 assists last year. Most of them went to first-year striker Mamadou Diallo, who scored a league-record 26 goals last year.

Steve Ralston and Eric Quill (5 goals apiece) man the flanks with aplomb. Now, Mondelo wants to find a Diallo a strike-mate, and he might be first-round SuperDraft choice Ali Curtis.

If Mondelo can somehow devise a defensive scheme that still allows Valderrama to create at will, this will be one fun team to watch.

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