When Julio Cascante moved to Portland he was aware of the competition he was set to face. As a former Saprissa alumni, considered one of the most prominent of academies in Central America, he was more than familiar with the competition that he was going to face.
Still for Julio this was not the case and coming to the start of a new era in Rose City. In addition this new chapter that he was about to embark upon may very well open new avenues not just with the National Team but also in Europe.
With a new manager in Giovanni Savarese the opportunities for him being a starter widened. He started becoming more open with the philosophy Gio was brought in at Portland, with new levels of competition leading to more opportunities. This was the chance for the San Jose native to seize a starting spot.
After Liam Ridgewell was placed on the injury list suddenly the opportunity arose for Cascante. So far in the his 2018 campaign he has contributed to his squad positive streak. Despite having a couple of matches there were some errors committed that almost cost his squad. Still in every match he gives his best and delivered several notable performances. As the one in last Saturday match against Philadelphia, where he put on his best match ever in a Timbers uniform. While he did make some errors, he recovered and closed with a strong finish.
Currently Julio has accumulated a total of 987 minutes in ten starts in the 2018 campaign. Looking a bit unmovable for his magnificent CONCACAF style of football, he puts in the field. As this football known for its tough and hardened style and rough approach as the one, he shows when some of his teammates are being hassled by opposing team players. The man has character and not takes any challenge lightly but confronts it with style.
However, the man has a lot of work to do in the campaign and assures himself as the sure starter. In spite of his performances but the return of Ridgewell from the injury list will make it a bit interesting. Julio has shown his mettle and might to deliver when the going gets tough. By stepping up his game and overzealous approach to defend and standing his ground he has made his case effectively for more time.
We will have Julio for a long time and get accustomed for his performances and a starter. He is only human to commit mistakes but the man for sure corrects himself and at the end delights us with a one of a kind performance in the backfield.
MLS Western
Portland
