Akeem Garcia established himself early in the CPL, scoring the first ever goal for the HFX Wanderers. Tallying a total 8 goals throughout the season, the Trini finished in the top 5 percentile in Goals, Expected Goals, Shots on target, Pressing and Fouls drawn. At the just 22 years old, Garcia put up numbers expected of a veteran forward.

Garcia played on both wings but spent the majority of his time in the center of the pitch. His stature would suggest he fits the mold of a false 9 but instead plays a style closer to a true 9.

On these two goals, Akeem hangs onto the final defender until the through ball and uses his speed to break away. The speed demonstrated shows how he has been able to thrive in any forward role.

His breakaway speed allows his smaller frame to separate himself from the larger central defenders.

From the Wing his speed allows him here to get into the box and then turn to his playmaking abilities to find a man for the assist.

Putting his size aside, Garcia’s speed can be an indication that he may be better used as a false 9. In the two following examples he uses his speed to come behind to put himself into positions to create high scoring chances for himself.

There is the connotation that a true 9 is typically a tall target man that can bully his way in the box. Garcia might not have the tall feature but he does know how to use his strength not only to position himself offensively but to create a turnover that leads to a scoring opportunity.

The next clip is one that leaves the question unanswered of what position Akeem is most suitable for. His small stature and speed allows himself to get to the high scoring area but then has the ability to beat off the defender and get his head on the ball for the scoring chance.

If the problem with Akeem Garcia is that he doesn’t have a set position then the Wanderers have a good problem on their hands. With some new real threats in the HFX attack with Morelli, Riggi, Bent and Marshall, we may see Garcia play at numerous positions again this season.