A return to form

There’s no kind way to put this, 2007 has not been Carlos Ruiz’ best year. He’s struggled with form, failed to show up for practice and had his captaincy questioned. And as the pressure to perform grew it seemed as if Carlos Ruiz shrank, but recently we’ve seen El Pescadito grow in stature as the games have grown in importance. Nine goals in his last 12 games (across all competitions) should serve notice to the league that he’s back.

Carlos’ return to form can be attributed to an increase in pressing defenders with his body, dropping back and helping when needed, making runs and being a general nuisance to the opposition. I don’t mean to sound self-serving but I’ve said before that Carlos Ruiz needs about four shots a game to make an impact. Earlier in the season when he was struggling he was barely getting two looks a game as Ramon Nunez was taking them all, but as the season has progressed the team has started to find him in advanced positions on the field. It could be argued that this is a chicken and the egg situation because who knows whether he’s playing better because the team is getting him the ball more or he’s getting the ball more because he’s playing better but the results speak for themselves and right now Carlos Ruiz is as hot as he’s been since he first came into the league (2002, 24G in 26gms.)

Welcome back to form El Pescadito, the team is going to need you as they attempt to raise two trophies in a season for the first time. Because if the Hoops are ever going to be successful in Dallas the FC is going to have to stand for “find Carlos.”

HOOPS PRIDE!

Category: Game Analysis

Tags: Carlos Ruiz, Game Analysis

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