I feel very upbeat about SKC, as long as we get out of Mexico City without any more injuries. Might just be me.
I will eat my words if he starts tonight. The other young George is a different story. I think Bello might be on the field at kickoff.
Speaking of losers, sorry I didn't corral a preview for tonight. For one I've been trying to workout more and that's eaten into my evening time, for another I simply didn't have the zeal for this match up given all the injuries. As others have said I'm more concerned with coming out of these matches intact rather than victorious.
Five Stripes go uber-defensive tonight - a 3-5-2 with Mo Adams as right centerback, both Remedi and Larentowicz in the defense and only Pity and Barco up front. I'd say that's a plan for counter attacking but Pity isn't known for breakaway speed.
5' and dos Santos misses from inside the box. Atlanta missing a couple defensive switches and America pressing like they want to put this to bed early.
Golaso America. And I do mean golaso. 35+ yds out, the kind of shot you discourage cause it's not worth it, only this time...
18' and Atlanta has apparently shifted Larentowicz to right center back and pushed Adams forward. Which means so far he, Remedi, and Barco (defensively) look like they're just running wherever.
25' and Barco dribbles thru half Las Aguillas and forces a save from the America keeper. Thought he might nick one there.
Not being broadcast in my area, according to the cable search and two bars with multiple TV sets. It doesn't look like I'm missing anything. Hope we can stay healthy enough for SKC.
28' and more sustained pressure by Atlanta forces another save. Game now moving up and down as America relaxes on defense trusting they can strike on the counter as needed. Sound plan as Atlanta has slow defenders and few top-rate ball handlers at the moment.
35' and Atlanta has pushed the team up field to continue the preasure. Make another good attack and pushing America back line deeper. But... 3-0 off a corner.
Inadvertent pick takes Hyndman off his man, leaving him free for the header. Fair play as the pick was simply another player vying for the ball.
65' and Atlanta has been making runs and getting into dangerous positions, just not able to get off clean shots. Just not enough of the right players who can both contribute to attack and race back to defend effectively. Adam Jahn on for Mulraney.
You can tell which side is neck deep into their season and which side is still discovering their lineup after just 2 months with each other.