Panama was clearly a better team than we have seen in recent times. They were well organised in defence and more importantly, they were much faster to the ball than our players.
The selection process is something which I never challenge simply because these players have been showing their worth in practice sessions. The coach may also have a strategy for a play which defeated us in the recent past.
My observation was almost immediately with our defence, not necessarily from their individual ability, but from a serious lack of communication in terms of the defensive policy. Their support for each other across the field was vulnerable, causing chaos within the strength of the Panamian midfielders when we attacked from the flanks and drawing wing backs to remain wide, a factor which allowed us penetrative opportunities in the middle of the field.
Unfortunately, Daniel Cyrus which I have seen in the past did not produce the aggression, the speed level he's known for, and together with Alvin Jones, they gave the ball away quick and easily.
Our major weakness, in general, was the lethargic approach to close down on their crafty and creative midfield opponents, giving them the chance to use some penetrative passing lanes. This brought out the best in our goalkeeper Marvin Phillips, whose contribution was brilliant just as he was against Japan, but he could not have been better in this game. He actually saved shots which he received from unmarked opponents, all of which were travelling rapidly towards the corners of the goal.
Actually, some may have challenged the absence of Joevin Jones at the start, but Levi Garcia worked very skilfully to dribble past the Panama central defence, almost getting some results, three of which he kicked overbars.
Our game was lost because of the absence of any constructive playmaker. It was sad to see Kevin Molino on the field displaying a limited quality play compare to what he's accustomed displaying.
Khaleem Hyland was also an under-performer. It was either the greater speed level by Panama's five-man midfield, which produced most of the match's goalscoring opportunities. What could have been more potent for the Soca Warriors, was to use Jones on the right flank from the start. This would have deprived the Panamanian left-side midfielder of going forward. His duty would have changed into a man marker for Jones, especially when brother Alvin was having a nightmare.
Panama has improved considerably, and this lesson could be the answer to the USA, whose methodology is filled with intensity, speed up front, but moderate in centre field play. An improved quartet in the midfield for the Soca Warriors can bring the right message of victory in the next game.