Scouting the Opposition: FC Dallas

(Editor’s note: Prior to each Revolution match, New England Soccer Today will invite a reporter who covers the Revolution’s upcoming opponent to provide greater insight on what to expect on gameday.)

This week, Buzz Carrick from 3rddegree.net was kind enough to share his insight on FC Dallas and what the Revolution can expect when they face them at FC Dallas Stadium for Thursday night’s game.)

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New England Soccer Today: What is Dallas’ form through its first four games? How do you think last week’s 4-1 loss to D.C. has affected them?

Buzz: Sporadic. FCD has looked good at times, and not so good at others, sometimes in the same game. Injuries, callups, fitness… all excuses that add up to the team not being in great form.

What things has Dallas done particularly well so far this season?

Well, Blas Perez has been a really nice addition and the offense has had some good stretches playing off a true target striker.

Which areas still need improvement?

Depth in midfield is a big problem, as if defensive consistency. FCD needs to get their first 11 all back to action and playing together to get some flow going.

What’s going on with David Ferreira? Do you think that we’ll ever see the same David Ferreira that won the 2010 MVP again?

He’s really struggling with some residual pain and FCD is having him re-evaluated… again. Is it mental? Will he be back? It’s really troubling. At his age we may never see the same player again.

One player the Revs will have to pay attention is Brek Shea, but which “unsung hero” could make an impact on Thursday?

Fabian Castillo should be back on the field, his pace could cause problems for the Revs. The Kid is a serious talent.

What are some things that Dallas will try to do on Thursday to stack the odds in their favor?

Hold possession, deny space in midfield, hold good defensive shape. At this point it’s about getting their ship righted more than it is dealing with the Revs.

What is their likely starting 11 against the Revs?

Blas Perez, Ricardo Villar, Brek Shea, Andrew Jacobson, Fabiasn Castillo, Bobby Warshaw, Hernan Petruz, Ugo Ihemelu, George John, Zach Loyd, Kevin Hartman. The question marks are Warshaw in for the suspended Hernandez (or someone else) and Petruz at left back over Jair Benitez (Editor’s note: Benitez was subsequently suspended for Thursday’s game after this interview was conducted) or Carlos Rodriguez.

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Buzz Carrick covers FC Dallas for 3rddegree.net and ESPN Dallas.  He is a member of The North American Soccer Reporters.