We’re headed into Round 2 fantasy managers and where do you stand? If your squad performed poorly last weekend, don't fret just yet. It's a marathon after all, not a sprint!
Many teams who had fast starts either went with LA Galaxy or Columbus Crew. With Los Angeles on a bye this week and the Crew facing the defensively sound Vancouver Whitecaps FC on our home turf, that should cool the jets of some of those early leaders this round at least. To help you climb a few rungs on the ladder let’s take a look at two players whose stock is certainly on the rise, and our featured team of the week.
Brad Rusin ($5.0m), Vancouver Whitecaps FC – With his mentor Jay Demerit sidelined after an unfortunate injury now is the time for Brad to Rise & Shine. The 26 year old centre back has big shoes to fill, but looked right at home on Bell Pitch against Toronto FC. Rusin is now likely to feature in Martin Rennie’s starting XI for the foreseeable future and if the ‘Caps back line can hold strong against the Crew this weekend then expect him to haul in 5-8 points.
Fabian Espindola ($8.6m), New York Red Bulls – Pump your breaks kid! It’s no question fantasy managers have made Espindola a favourite pick after his point tally in Round 1; but consider how he got there before jumping on the bandwagon. Portland Timbers left back Mikaël Silvestre made a calamity of his MLS debut, gifting both goals to Espindola. This is one of those situations where it's better to know HOW a player scored, as opposed to IF a player scored.
Team of the week (Round 2), San Jose Earthquakes – The Goonies came up with a tough 2-0 defeat in their home season opener. That result could well have been reversed if the $10.5m Wondolowski didn't hit the bar early, plus miss a sitter and a free header. The goal scoring machine won't have too many of these games and we expect him to quickly right the San Jose attacking ship that made them so feared in 2012 (72 goals).
Keeping with the offense, Michael Fucito ($6.5m) impressed and looks to have good chemistry up front with Wondo, although he may have picked up a knock and is questionable for this Saturday. Former ‘Cap Shea Salinas ($8.0m) comes at a fairly steep price but is expected to be a focal point of San Jose's transition on attack.
Defensively you can't go wrong with any of San Jose’s roster, but Ramiro Corrales ($5.0m) is on our watch-list as he has a knack for putting in crosses as well as getting up field in a hurry. If you’re considering Victor Bernardez ($6.0m) be aware that he was added to Honduras' roster for World Cup qualifying games so will likely miss the Round 4 match versus Seattle Sounders.
As always, keep an eye on injury report updates HERE and good luck in Round 2.
For more information on prizing and how to sign up for the Official Whitecaps Fantasy League click: HERE
