Zortiah Can Help Lone Star


By Wleh Bedell
bedellblessing@yahoo.com
231886106293


Though not part of the original listing called by hand picked coach Kaytu Smith, Spanish Third Division outfit AD Villaviciosa De Odan deadly left bomber James Garmongar Zortiah can still make the final listing in boarding the plane for the Lions Den, Senegal, for the weighty 2014 match day 1 group qualifier against the 2002 World Cup quarter finalists on June 2.

The rampaging winger cum full back who is currently on holiday and has since started training with the rest of his international teammates, is no doubt an asset as his vast speed, quick pace, God sent left foot, indefatigable ball winning instinct and whole hearted approach can help the Lone Star in such torrid encounter in unfamiliar territory.

From all indication, the Lone Star will implore a negative formation, and judging from the preponderance of strikers as well as widemen, the team could adapt a more flexible 4-2-3-1 formation where a flat back four will be greatly protected by a double pivot in the middle of the park, and then a three-man midfield in advanced form with two wide men scampering down the channels, but not neglecting defensive duties as well and a midfielder cum striker with much gift technically and play making attributes.

Such player will need to provide the ammunition or defense splitting passes for the lone man upfront who will be leggy as the match progresses, but must notwithstanding be able to shield the ball or keep it in waiting for playmates to be released for his side to have some attacking threats that will be few and far between.

Also, the team is expected to soak or absorb the pressure in showcasing the waiting game with emphaisis on possession but with the element of surprise not ignored via a brutal counter attacking game.

Indeed, any coach engaging in such high profile away contest will encourage his charges to keep the ball, be calm and patient and be very effective in dealing with the dead balls or set pieces from an attacking stand point as the chances from open play will be very few and far far between.

Thus, players who have the ability to work in winning balls, closing down opponents, have good work ethics and be able to cover lots of grounds are required for such huge contest with Zortiah certainly fitting in such category.

As a full back, the former Liberia Black Star man can move upfront with much grace and elegance as he can be a handful in being lethal during the attack and accurate under pressure. in lateral midfiel or wide areas, the work-horse can provide width as his clever measured crosses can unsettle opposing defenders and goalkeepers. Thus, he can effectively combine with the rest of his international colleagues in a match that will welcome kaitu Smith to the international football folklore at the highest level.

As it is often said "it is good to lose with your best" and if the Lone Star is to lose in Dakar, it is advisable the best players be paraded and Zortiah is inarguably amongst the best the country can boast of.