Oakland Roots talking points going into New Mexico United

The Oakland Roots are coming off its strongest two performances of the season in its 0-0 draw with Sac. Republic and the recent 2-1 victory over Los Dos. Roots out-possessed both teams 59 and 53 percent respectively, and created their most chances to score with seven shots on target against LA—though the early red card helped that.

Walking into Wednesday’s meeting with New Mexico United, we’re beginning to draw more from the squad and Jordan Ferrell little by little.  

Ferrell mentioned that the Roots played 4-4-2 defensively and transitioned to 4-2-3-1 in attack against LA, while The Blog eyed a variation of 4-1-4-1 on Saturday.

“We went from 4-4-2, 4-2-3-1, and dropped Lindo Mfeka in the #10 role to give us an extra midfielder. We didn't do as well at securing possession but when we did, you could tell that extra midfielder made a difference. Then we brought in Chuy Enriquez because we thought he'd be important on his side running at people,” said Ferrell after beating Galaxy II.

When asked about Wal Fall’s recent contributions on the pitch after Saturday’s contest, Ferrell was quick to mention that veteran contributions are beginning to be expected “game-in, game-out.”

“You're starting to see more of our experienced guys play for us game-in and game-out; these guys know what it takes to win at this level and you see Wal's influence and just the organization of the team on the field, it's really important…,” said Ferrell.

As for New Mexico United, they have tied three matches in a row; 1-1 to El Paso most recently on Aug. 14, 0-0 with Tacoma on Aug. 1, and 0-0 with El Paso on July 24. Their last win was 2-1 over Charleston on July 12 and lost 3-nil to San Antonio on July 21.

It is the former club of Roots’ defender and midfielder Saalih Muhammad, where he made 34 caps from 2019-2020 and scored once.

New Mexico recently acquired midfielder Chris Wehan from OCSC for an $80,000 transfer fee, the largest sum between two USL clubs in league history. 

Here are some things to watch for the Oakland Roots:

More veteran contributions on the way?

As Ferrell alluded to, the experience on Roots’ roster is beginning to pave the way to success. However, careful structuring is required with another match a few days later in Las Vegas before heading to Las Positas on Aug. 25 versus Phoenix.

“We're going to see different bits and pieces in the lineup in the way we feel is our best 11…,” said Ferrell.

Quincy Amarikwa’s impact has been noticeable since his first minute in a Roots’ kit. It’s encouraging to see his instant presence with his teammates, jawing at the ref and opposing players.

Fall has been entered in five/six straight matches and taking claim of the Roots’ free kick specialist. Jeremy Bokila’s contributions speak for themselves and it will be great to see him get another goal to his tally. Brandon Allen, as well, seems to be progressing in each appearance.

Against Los Angeles, the youngest player on the field for Roots was Chuy Enriquez until Ariel Mbumba entered in the 83rd minute. Chuy just turned 24-years old on Monday and is a six-year professional.

Also, does Muhammad get minutes against his former club? 

The fullback partnership

Akeem Ward and Memo Diaz are coming off strong performances against Los Dos with a respective rating of 6.9 and 7.3, but also played a full 90.

Soya Takahashi stayed on the subs in Saturday’s game and with Tarn Weir still working his way back from an injury, Takahashi could be set for a return.

Diaz, however, has started back-to-back games at right back and is playing well. Does Ferrell ride the hot hand?

Photo courtesy of Oakland Roots SC

Paul Blanchette locking down the job?

The Roots’ signee from July 6 appears to be locking down the starting role after a clean sheet and win. 

Blanchette earned a rating of 7.4 against LA, recording three saves, two diving, one high claim, and five accurate long balls. He was credited with a 7.2 against Sacramento, but no saves were required.

A start and strong performance against New Mexico United could mean Blanchette is earning the job in a strong room beside Zeus de la Paz and Taylor Bailey.

How close is Tarek Morad to coming back?

You couldn’t not get excited about Tarek Morad posting that he’s going to come back stronger than ever.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CSkISl3pR93/

Regardless of the timetable of his return, it’s comforting to know that the Roots’ defensive stability with Kai Greene, Emrah Klimenta, and Max Ornstil manning the midfield enables Morad to take his time.

Once he’s back, Morad is stepping back onto a team playing its strongest defensive football. That could only mean good things going forward.