FC Dallas: Three hopes, one fear

Hope #3: That Victor Ulloa can create goal-scoring opportunities

It cannot be understated how important Mauro Diaz was to FC Dallas’ attack this season. The Argentine midfielder did score seven goals this season but it was his ability to create chances for his teammates that set him apart from the rest of the league and placed him on the shortlist for league MVP. Although the statistic is flawed, his 18 assists are certainly a marker in showing what all Dallas supporters knew: that he is perhaps the most vital part of their attack.

But Dallas were dealt a blow late in the season when Diaz went down with a torn Achilles tendon in his right leg. Without him coach Oscar Pareja needs to find someone who can take over not just his center midfield position but also be the player who can press defenses and create goal-scoring opportunities. That is not an easy task, especially considering how much Pareja relied on Diaz to be a workhorse in the midfield. At a time when so many midfielders are highly specialized to do one or two things Pareja likes to have his midfielders serve as jack of all trades, doing a little bit of everything.

The distinction of replacing Diaz’s output seems to have fallen to Ulloa.  The FC Dallas Youth Academy product has worked primarily as a defensive midfielder through the past five years but has shown a willingness to move into attacking positions when called upon.  Mostly what sets him apart is his passing. Ulloa always seems to find his target even in crowded territories.

It is because of his timing and his ability to read defenders tendencies that he can get off passes even under the most difficult of circumstances. In particular if he can find Michael Barrios (10 goals across all competitions) on the outside then Dallas will have a chance to get out of this 3-0 hole.