The Daily Dirt, March 6: The Day After

For most of the night, everything went just as Atlanta United hoped. A first half goal from Yamil Asad had the Five Stripes positioned to win their inaugural match against the New York Red Bulls. However, the wheels fell off due to some miscommunication and an unfortunately timed injury, and the Red Bulls snuck out of Bobby Dodd Stadium with a 2-1 win.

There are things to improve, but do not despair. The team showed flashes of the play we have started to expect from them with the talent they possess. They handled New York’s early pressure well and limited the number of dangerous chances they allowed. It’s the finer touches at this point that need work. The final pass, the final run off the ball, the substitution patterns, all of the little things that come with time are what Atlanta United need at the moment.

The atmosphere was amazing last night at Bobby Dodd Stadium, full credit to the fans. Hardcore and novice alike, it was just a fun place to be for the majority of the game. Were mistakes made? Yes and yes. A few individuals do not represent an entire fanbase, and I think that overall, the Atlanta United nation started very brightly last night.

These types of losses are the ones that stick with you for a bit, that drive you to improve. Hopefully for Atlanta United, that process starts quickly as Minnesota United awaits.

Domestic

Vancouver Whitecaps play to a scoreless draw with Philadelphia Union (Eighty Six Forever)

Cyle Larin’s goal was the difference in Orlando City’s 1-0 win over NYCFC (The Mane Land)

Fighting fans in Orlando mar the Lions’ new stadium opening (Orlando Sentinel)

International

Arsenal issues coming to light (BBC)

Could Chelsea be looking at a new stadium? (FourFourTwo)