Atlanta United FC: Hard Fought Point Won at Portland Timbers
By W. M. Lawson
Atlanta United FC went to hostile territory on Sunday and eked out a point. In doing so, they stopped their losing streak at two, and head home after a long time on the road.
The 2017 season is one of many firsts for the first year expansion Atlanta United FC. They had their first ever goal, first ever win, first ever loss, first ever injury, first ever…everything. It’s their first season in existence.
As you might imagine, it has been a unique experience, thus far. An experience unique for fans, players, coaches, and staff alike. But it has been more unique than just the firsts. Regardless of sport, few teams have experienced what United FC already has.
“The 5 Stripes” went to Portland to take on the sometimes tyrannical Timbers on Sunday. Portland is not an easy place to play. It is one of the more feared atmospheres in MLS. After gaining a lead, early in the 2nd half, they gave up a goal, and left with a draw and a point.
Same story…you might be thinking. Yes and no, really. Yes, it is the 6th time in 10 games (I believe) that ATL UTD has blown a lead. That isn’t good. They definitely need to address that.
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But, consider this. Atlanta United FC has now played 6 of their last 7 games on the road. Now think about that. A seven game road trip is long in MLB. They play 162 games a year. A seven game road trip is long in the NBA. They play 82 games in a season.
The most comparable sport, in terms of schedule, is the NFL. They play 16 regular season games. A seven game road trip is unthinkable. Fans would riot.
So, ATL UTD has played 6 of their last 7 away. That is daunting. Yes, they have only eked out a point in their last three games. But that is a daunting task to spend that much time on the road and expect progress.
In addition, they’ve done all of this without their top scorer in Josef Martinez. An expansion franchise that has played 6 of their last 7 on the road, and without their best player. Usually, a recipe for disaster and ineptitude.
But not here. Atlanta United FC sit in 8th place (out of 11), and now come home for two whole games. It’s amazing! And like most sports, if you win at home, and can win sometimes on the road, you’ll be relevant.
If ATL UTD can get two wins (6 points) out of these next two home games, they will be right in the mix and, presumably, top five in the conference. And, eventually, Martinez will be back. Hopefully, sooner than later.
Next: Atlanta Braves: Offense Comes Alive in Toronto
Not too shabby for an expansion franchise almost a third of the way through their first season, and one that has played 70% of their games away from home.