MINNEAPOLIS -- The San Jose Earthquakes used a tidy defensive performance in Minnesota this weekend to snap their six-match unbeaten streak, but it was made all the more impressive by the fresh face at right back.
According to head coach Dom Kinnear, regular right back Nick Lima picked up a dead-leg injury in training during the week leading up to the match, leading to winger Cordell Cato moving back to fill in. For Kinnear, the Trinidad & Tobago international more than held his ground.
āThe one thing about Cordell is that he can play a lot of positions,ā Kinnear said. āHe attacks well from deep, he defends well, so I thought he had a good game for us.ā
Cato kept Minnesotaās wide players at bay all day, containing compatriot Kevin Molino and also pressing up the right-hand side. He also moved around the pitch to great effect, giving the Loons headaches all over the pitch.
āIām an attacking player, so in playing defense, I was trying to be simple,ā Cato explained āI pressed forward in the attack, tried to create chances and be dangerous. I thought I did that tonight.ā
Cato also generated what was likely the best chance of any player on the field in the first half, curling a left-footed shot that beat the goalkeeper and struck the underside of the crossbar only to bounce away from goal.
His captain and teammate Chris Wondolowski was impressed. MLS's leading-active goalscorer appreciated the additional spark that Cato provided.
āCordell did really well,ā according to the US international. āWe played a new lineup in a 4-2-3-1 in a sense. Cordell was at right back with a lot of ground to cover. Heās so quick and dynamic with the ball. He provided a nice spark for us.ā
Lima eventually subbed into the match for the last nine minutes, but he came in at left back. Given Catoās strong performance in Minnesota, Kinnear is keeping his fullback options open.
āItās possible [Cato] starts next week [Saturday vs. Portland Timbers],ā said Kinnear. āWeāll see ... lots of stuff can happen between then.ā