Beyond the Box: Slowing Down Davies and Opening Up the Attack

ADAPTING TO THE THREAT OF DAVIES

Fans of Minnesota United have no doubt grown accustomed to seeing midfielder Miguel Ibarra in his new role as wingback on the right side of the field. From that position, Ibarra has worked well with Darwin Quintero in the middle to produce a lot of goals and assists during Minnesota’s recent success at home.

But facing the game-breaking threat of young Alphonso Davies on the road in Vancouver, Adrian Heath opted for Eric Miller on that side of the pitch, pushing Ibarra to the left side.

“We had talked before the game about me trying to stay on Davies’ side as much as possible,” said Miller. “Obviously, Miguel’s a little bit more attack-minded as a wingback, I’m…