Recap: RSL @ Atlanta

This weekend we learned a lot.

In week one we learned our kids could hold their own. In game two we learned our depth could win games. But this weekend we learned something bigger. We are legit.

We pulled Atlanta apart. Go watch the clip of Gozo’s goal on @rslrooster on Twitter. Aiden Hezarkhani runs across the goal and pulls the ATL left back out of position, leaving Gozo in a 1v1. That was not a lucky goal. That was the result of hard work, talent, coaching, and execution. That type of play will put any backline in danger.

A lot of credit goes to the kids who executed the play, but I also want to give some rare love to Pablo. He has been crushing it. The team is sitting 6th in the West after playing three title contenders, and people are starting to notice. This week MLS ranked RSL ninth in their power rankings.

Pablo is getting the best out of these players and I hope he can keep it up. If he does, a lot of these kids could be in Europe in 18 months. Gozo might even push himself into the World Cup conversation now that Sergiño Dest is injured.

So what’s next?

RSL plays Austin at home. Austin is currently 1-1-1 with games against Charlotte, DC, and Minnesota. I would not expect RSL to be heavy favorites. Austin is dangerous. Jayden Nelson tore us apart last year and they have other talented attackers. Their defense has conceded five goals, only one more than RSL. This game will probably be close.

That brings up one more question. Will there be any changes?

Last week we played well, but in my opinion Moisa and Caliskan were not incredible. If Ruiz or Stijn are ready I would like to see some rotation in that spot. I would also love to see the return of Diego Luna and Victor Olatunji. I have not heard anything that suggests it is likely, but it is possible.

I also hope Pablo spends some time working on 1v1 defending on the right wing. We have been getting exposed there the last few weeks. That said, the benefits of having Gozo there probably outweigh the defensive concerns, so I am not overly worried.

A win this week would really cement RSL as a strong Western Conference team, which is impressive considering how strong the conference looks this year.

Wishing the best. Thanks for reading.

Until next time,
@RslRooster

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