GORDON WILLIAMS

What once appeared a sweet sweep for three young Jamaicans in Major League Soccer has somewhat soured as MLS approaches the midway point of their rookie year.

The MLS All-Star game is August 6, but none of the Reggae Boyz selected in the top 10 of the league's 2014 SuperDraft has shone in North America's premier football competition. Coaches' decisions and injuries have cooled hot expectations for Andre Blake, Andre "LA" Lewis and Damion Lowe, who have combined for zero MLS minutes so far.

Blake, 23, regarded as Jamaica's number one goalkeeper-in-waiting, was picked first overall by Philadelphia Union in January. Despite outstanding performances for country in recent internationals, and a man-of-the-match showing for club against touring English Premier League club Crystal Palace last month, he has been unable to break into Philadelphia's starting MLS line-up.

Outstanding

Incumbent Zac MacMath has kept Blake on Philadelphia's bench. But the American is expected to join him there soon as the club recently signed Algerian international Rais Mbolhi, who was outstanding at World Cup 2014. That may further reduce Blake's chances, unless he or MacMath is traded. For the Jamaican, that appears unlikely.

"We believe (Blake) has a tremendous future with this club," coach Jim Curtin told the media on July 29.

Injuries also dented Jamaica's MLS rookie impact. Lowe, a 21-year-old defender selected eighth overall by Seattle Sounders, was tipped for first team action this season by the coaching staff. However, he tore a muscle in his back/hip area, underwent surgery in early April, and was forced out of action.

On August 1, his Jamaican agent Damani Ralph said Lowe is now "fully fit" and "started full training on July 31", but is not yet allowed in contact drills. Lowe believes he has recaptured his speed and full motion range.

"I feel good," he said August 1. "Just working on match fitness."

Ralph said he won't be hurried back.

"For Damion, there is no rush," he explained. "Worst thing is for a young player is to put pressure on himself. He needs to take his time."

Season-long loan

Midfielder Lewis, after impressing at the MLS Combine in January and drafted seventh overall by Vancouver Whitecaps, was sent on a season-long loan to lower league club Charleston Battery. However, he tore a knee ligament last month. According to Ralph, the 19-year-old has returned to the Whitecaps in Canada, but had yet to undergo surgery. However, Lewis won't play again this season.

"That's not an option for him," said Ralph.

MLS clubs have been generally impressed by Jamaicans' technical ability, speed, strength and agility. Most are scouted in the United States college game. But Lewis, for example, impressed at the MLS Combine and striker Brian Brown recently joined Philadelphia from Jamaica as a rookie.

With prized high draft picks invested in Blake, Lewis and Lowe, their absence from the first-team spotlight is glaring. However, Ralph refused to describe the 2014 Jamaican MLS rookie crop, especially in Blake's case, a flop.

"I wouldn't consider it a disappointment," he said. "It goes to show that the transition from high school and college to professional is as easy as people think. It's a testament to the level of MLS."

Ralph believes Blake, Lewis and Lowe will have plenty opportunities to impress.

"All have a bright future in MLS and the game," he said. "They have the capabilities and tools to play at the highest level once they continue to develop."