Here is a look at the loss at Houston by the numbers.
13
Both teams took thirteen shots. Houston was more clinical in the finish, as they converted four shots into goals. Atlanta only had 2 shots on goal: Julian Gressel’s shot in the 46th minute to start the second half, and Miguel Almirón in the 64th minute. Héctor Villalba had the first strike in the 3rd minute of play, as Atlanta United looked to get the scoring started quickly.
Atlanta took a total of 13 shots only 2 on target and no goals.
59.4%
Atlanta controlled the possession. This was primarily because they were playing from behind within five minutes of kick-off. Historically, Atlanta plays a high possession game, this match was not different. The match was played in final third, with 77% of the Atlanta passes completed in the Houston half of the pitch. Atlanta was very tidy with the ball in possession completing 83% of their passes.
Atlanta dominated possession, playing from behind creates this lopsided possession.
-247
Atlanta center back Leandro González-Pírez had the worst night of his MLS career. A fantastic defender, who is considered by many to be a candidate for defender of the year had an afternoon to forget. His Audi Index was a miserable -247, a career low. His uncharacteristic “Error leading to a goal” was on all the highlight reels over the past 48 hours. He had a pass picked off in the back field that almost cost another goal. Finally, he was stretchered off right before half with a hip contusion that could not have been worse than the damage done to his confidence. This was an afternoon to forget for the defender.
6
Brad Guzan, the USMNT goalkeeper and mid-season acquisition last season from the English Premiere League, had a very busy afternoon. He had six saves on top of the four goals he allowed. Several of the goals were undoubtedly beyond his reach, or the best keeper. However, the last goal allowed was one he would like to have back. His clearance was short and in front of goal, teed up nicely for Dynamo forward Darwin Cerén to crush into the back of the net.
1
This is only one match of thirty-four. This match does not dictate the rest of the season. It is much better to have this happen in the first of March than the middle of September. Atlanta struggled on the road last season as well. They were roundly beat by both Chicago and NYCFC in the late spring early summer. The opener was a wrong step, but there is plenty of season to work toward better results.
Atlanta United FC
