There will be ample stoppage this half, and that's too bad. It's pretty dire and we need halftime to let Pablo make changes.
The Cbus CF sets up off-sides in the box. Their RW then makes a run toward the post and Brody chases after him, making the CF on-sides. The LW then passes to the CF. If Brody doesn’t chase the RW, the RW and CF would both be off-sides. It seems like a set play to take advantage of Brody.
I think there was an accident on I-15 just south of the stadium. There was an accident there as I arrived. I imagine that caused another, because we are awesome at driving in SLC. edit: I see this has been addressed. I’m wrong.
As for the match, we like to press, but honestly, Columbus is pressing RSL better, forcing mistakes and flopping to earn free kicks when soccer fails. It’s worked so far but on the road, undermanned, at altitude, CBus may fade after 70’ - or at least that’s my IBreathedPlastic prayer to Satan from this United States of Biblestan.
We drove one of those for a long time, pointing out it wasn't just a Cutlass, but also a Supreme one so it had to be good. Unlike this game through 60.
Dunny is saying Pablo basically didn't train with the team for about 2 weeks. Fresh legs, but it pushes Jasper forward, but he plays too hard to go 90. Other options aren't good.
I’ve noticed a couple of things about Meram tonight. First, he’s had a very high work rate. Second, many times when he dribbles the ball he’ll slow down and give subtle hints of passing to a nearby teammate. When the defender(s) take a step that way, he blows past them toward the middle of the field. He’s really forced me to change my opinion.
I think the team has worked on how to succeed with him. He’s largely a cone on defense, but he’s blocking lanes.
It is oddly hazy in the stadium, likely due to that warehouse fire. There’s no purple air nearby, so not sure how bad it is, but it smells.
Meram is exhausted. It’s a good sub. This match is shaping up to be a scoreless draw. Disappointing. Maybe the impact of Wood being out?
I thought the team just looked disjointed. Then nobody has stepped up to make a difference. Sava is supposed to, but he can't be expected to do it every game.
I spoke nicely about Meram, so now I can be negative about Sergio. I’m pretty much ready to end the experiment. I don’t think he’ll ever make an impact in MLS.