On the back of news that we have only the third four-game winning streak this season (we also have one of the other three, too,) it’s a little distressing that people are stilling writing us off. I don’t mean to refer to anyone in particular, but some critics have doubted our ability to: Beat L.A. Galaxy at all (4-1 win, anyone?) and to beat Seattle at home (Yes, I suppose we can’t … oh, wait. We did.) in the playoffs, or to make up the 10 points between us and the Galaxy.
Sure, we know the Supporters’ Shield is going to be a big ask this season. Even if we win our two games-in-hand and beat L.A. at the Home Depot Center (which we’re more than capable of) we will still need to rely on the Galaxy dropping at least two points. Is it possible? Certainly. They’re not perfect, and they’re not anywhere as good as claimed. But they’re hot right now, and they have the experience to go all the way. We’ll have to wait and see, I suppose.
In other news, Chris Wingert is nearing his return after playing the first half of action for the RSL Reserves, but Tony Beltran looks to be out for 2–4 weeks after suffering a groin strain. Yordany Alvarez played for 72 minutes and Nico Muniz played the whole match, so our new boys look to be coming along. In fact, just looking at this reassures me that we do, in fact, have some squad depth around still:
Tim Melia; Blake Wagner, Rauwshan McKenzie, Jean Alexandre, Chris Wingert (Tony Beltran 45); Yordany Alvarez (Luis Gil 72), Arturo Alvarez, Nico Muniz, Collen Warner; Cody Arnoux (Chris Agorsor 65), Paulo Jr. (Donny Toia 45)
I’ve yet to rewatch the match, so be on the lookout for something about that either later today or early tomorrow. A more balanced perspective, perhaps. (Yeah, right.)
But you want some more good news? I’ve literally just read this from Keepin’ it Real on Twitter (@kirsoccer). Both Chris Wingert and Javier Morales will be on our two-game road trip to the east. Wingert, Kreis said, could be available for selection against D.C. United, though for limited play time only, and apparently, Javi could be available for selection at some point, though is largely along for training. Remarkable. Can you imagine having Javi on the bench as a motivator? Or how about as something to strike a little fear into the other side?
Right, well, that’s great news. I don’t have much else for your right now, so I’ll let you get on with your day. (Yes, I’m that generous. Or deluded. One of the two.)
Up the RSL!
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