Over the years Orlando have been dominated by Atlanta in their so-called rivalry. This year has been very different. Orlando came away dominant winners on one occasion with the other two, including this one, ending in a draw.
Now, the way the draws have played out are a lot different than in the past. In years prior even the ties were dominated by Atlanta and fans were walking away wondering how Orlando even got a point from the game. This time around, Orlando actually look the more dominant.
This most recent game was not much different. While Atlanta did have more possession than Orlando, their opponents had more chances. However, at the end of the day they came away with a point against a team that going into the game were expected to beat them. The only thing that changed was Orlando playing a rested lineup. A lot of first team players were either rested or on international duty. Chris Mueller, Nani, and Antonio Carlos all started from the bench for the Lions.
There wasn’t much going on in this game other than some great saves from Brad Guzan and some saves on the other side with Brian Rowe. However, from Atlanta’s point of view they got 1 more point than a lot of people would’ve expected. This was also Atlanta’s second clean sheet in a row. So, while their attack left a lot to be desired, their defense once again held on and didn’t allow their opponent to score.
Either way I think the point they did get is a positive. I’ve said it before and I can’t help but say it again with Marcelino Moreno expected to be available for selection this Saturday against the New York Red Bulls. This team have had an unbelievable amount of departures and injuries throughout the year. They’ve had very high expectations throughout the club itself and the fans. With that level of expectation this team has unfairly been criticized past the point they actually should be. While I think the team as it is could be performing better, the level fans are expecting is largely unjust. This team has been playing with no Designated Players and have had injuries throughout their non-DPs on the roster as well. If almost any other team in the MLS had this problem, they would be struggling too.
Ezequiel Barco’s day-to-day has had some complications but he should be sooner or later. And at some point, if not against the Red Bulls, new acquisition Moreno will come into the fray and should be a much-needed spark for this team.
All I’m saying is this team can’t really be judged off of what has happened the last few weeks. However, that being said they’ve looked a lot better than what they looked like in the MLS Is Back Tournament. And with DPs coming back I’ve said this a lot, but they could surprise some of the people that actually are judging them for recent performances.