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FC Dallas Have Plenty To Prove In 2015 MLS Season

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By @DFresh39

2015 FC Dallas Preview

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A four-game losing streak in April and May of last year signaled to many that FC Dallas was heading for another disappointing season, much like 2013. Coach Oscar Pareja was able to right the ship and get his team into the playoffs for the first time since 2011. They were eliminated in the MLS Western Conference semifinals after a fourth-place finish in the regular season. Pareja got the most out of his players down the stretch last year, but was it an aberration?

The team battled injuries to key players and was able to exceed expectations. They had one of the most proficient offenses in the league in 2014 by scoring 55 goals on 386 shots, the third-fewest in the league. That carried over to the postseason, in which they never lost to the Supporters’ Shield winner Seattle Sounders in the two-leg semifinal. They became the first victim of the new away goals rule, leaving a bitter taste in their mouths ahead of the 2015 season.

A reason why FC Dallas were able to hold onto a playoff spot was their improving defense. Matt Hedges was one of the best center-backs in MLS in 2014. His partner, Zach Loyd, was one of the best last-ditch defenders in MLS as he never seemed to panic. Walker Zimmerman is said to be pushing both players in the center of defense.

There is some uncertainty on the edges of the defense. Moises Hernandez is set to start at left-back. The conversion of Atiba Harris to right-back will be interesting to watch all season. Other options at the wide back positions are limited. Loyd could be an option if Zimmerman is healthy. The addition of goalkeeper Dan Kennedy will provide leadership to keep the wide backs in check.

The central midfield is just as much of a question mark. Michel is a great set-piece taker, but has lost a step. Victor Ulloa had moments of brilliance in 2014, but has yet to prove that he can be a consistent performer. Kellyn Acosta is another option in the center of the field, but has not lived up to his hype.

The potential in the attacking midfield spots may make up for the uncertainty in the rest of the midfield. When healthy, Mauro Diaz has some of the best vision in the league. The attack runs through him. He is joined by Fabian Castillo, who is one of the fastest players in the league. He needs to work on his finishing skills to be a consistent goal scoring threat.

Up front, Blas Perez remains a pest and a top forward. Reigning Rookie of the Year Tesho Akindele will be moved around, but can play up top as well. If Pareja can keep his team in the possession-oriented mindset, then FC Dallas could be back in the playoffs as a healthy Dallas squad is built to own the match from start to finish.

2015 prediction: 12-8-14, 50 points, fifth in the West

Douglas Smith is a soccer writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DFresh39, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.

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