2. Graham Zusi poses defensive problems
One of the biggest questions of Sporting KC throughout the offseason was the lack of attention they paid to the defensive issues of 2019. And, if this first outing in 2020 is anything to go by, they still remain a problem. Three members of the back four played extremely well, while Graham Zusi was at fault at Vancouver’s opening goal.
He got beat for speed then put in a very weak challenge before allowing David Milinkovic to tip-toe along the byline to assist the equalizer for the Whitecaps. On the bright side, Zusi did look good getting forward and sent in several decent crosses, but if his defensive struggles continue, Jaylin Lindsey may well get a look at right-back.
The center-back pairing of Matt Besler and Roberto Puncec looked very solid throughout. Other than Vancouver’s goal, the only other real chance came just before added-time, but Tim Melia did well to come off his line and close down the angle. All in all, it was an improved defensive showing, but if Zusi cannot improve, he poses a problem that Peter Vermes will be keen to solve.