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Soccer goals: As the second round concludes moving into the final rounds of the MLS Superdraft, several MLS clubs could cash in on a potential diamond in the roughs, those prospects who either played at smaller schools or have lesser name recognition but fared well at the combine.

 

Soccer Videos: 2010 Superdraft Predictions

 

 

 

Good drafts become great drafts when a club can find the players late in the draft that provide depth and competition at positions 18-26. Is there a potential Tom Brady in the late rounds waiting to change the US soccer landscape? Probably not.  But one never knows what could be lurking in the later rounds. Let's take a look at potential sleepers and dark horses.

 

11. Mike Pezza, M, U Conn - Leaving a trail of dust while speeding down the flank, Pezza can offer up a mean  and accurate cross. In addition, his size and athleticism resembles that of 2009 GA signee Danny Cruz, but Pezza's skill eclipses the Dynamo winger. Will teams hesistate to take a late round flier on the stocky and fiery winger? 

 

10.  Joseph Noone, M, Temple - demonstrated good speed, touch, and attacking qualities on the wing. His size and athleticism helps his transition to the next level.

 

9. Isaac Kissi, F, Univ. of Dayton - Although Andrew Hoxie stole the show as the top goal scorer on his team, Kissi demonstrated physical target play, deceptive speed, and willingness to turn on defenders. What was most impressive was his hold up play which resulted in effective attacking sequences, hence, their 3-0 record and seven goals.

 

8. Othaniel Yanez, M, Louisville - In his first two combine games, the holding midfielder procured the Condivo attack with his speed of play and movement. Even before the ball reached his feet, he already had analyzed where the ball would go next a la Dax McCarty. Oh by the way, I forgot to mention that he nailed a 35-yard wonder strike in game two. Despite his smaller stature and limited athleticism, this play maker relies more on his craft and skill than his physical tools.

 

7.  Olukorede Aiyegbusi, D, NCSU - This diminutive and speedy left back worked the left flank all the way to its roots, utlizing his speed and defensive tenacity to fruition. Although he seems shorter than his 5'5 frame, the wing back packs a big punch,  leaving an impression as the combine's second best left back. The question still remains whether a team is willing to take a late round flier on him.

 

6. Mike Seamon, M, Villanova - Impressed in the central midfield, competing against the likes of Toni Stahl and Amobi Okugo. His game two goal chipped the goal keeper and trickled past two incoming defenders.

 

5. Pascal Millien, F, Univ of Tampa - The Spartan forward's first experience with top caliber players took place in February 2009 when University of Tampa faced Real Salt Lake. In the RSL's three-game exhibition, the speedy forward wreaked havoc on the RSL defense, almost scoring on several occasions. Fast forward to the combine, and one will be reminded of why he was invited. When placed at forward, his speed, menacing runs, and silky skill created dangerous attacking sequences. From a skill standpoint, he provided a different element from the forward position but must learn when and how to attack, as his decision making and speed of play frustrated his teammates. Think And1 mixtape in soccer: He's got skills to pay bills.

 

4. Chris Schuler, D, Creighton - What was most impressive facet of central defender was his soft touch, distribution, and calmness under pressure. Will he go late in the second round or drop further in the draft?

 

3. Kwaku Nyamekye, D, Havard -  The antithesis of Schuler, the Harvard defender, prefers the physical aspects of the game. Couple his penchant for strong tackling and physical play with his Harvard intelect, and one can understand his value. During the combine, the Harvard defender raised his draft value challenging for every loose ball and aerial battle.

 

2.  Eric Alexander, M, Indiana - Although the talented Hoosier midfielder comes from a prestigous soccer program, his performance surprised several with an impressive combine, leading the tourney with two goals, setting up team mates, and creating deadly attacking sequences in the final third. His long range blast in game two caused many scouts and MLS executives to take notice. After exeriencing a strong combine, it would not surprise me if he jumped into the middle of the second round.

 

1. Drew Yates, M, Maryland - Hailing from another top soccer program, the Terrapin midfielder bursted on the combine scene from the opening whistle. Used primarily as a role player in 2008, he squashed any doubts of his impact playing against the best in the nation. His motor, perpetual movement,, quick exchanges, and  soft touch gave the F50i offense fluidity. Considered a tweener -- does he play centraly or shift to the wing? -- Yates closely resembles Sacha Kljestan, a player loaded with talent but still has yet find his ideal position. His combine performance could possibly move into a high or mid second round selection.

 

Who will make his mark as the 2010 sleeper? Could Yates or Alexander move up higher in the draft? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Potential Best Xl 2010 MLS sleeper prospects

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