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The Union fell 3-1 to the Timbers in the season opener in Portland. The game started bogged down in the midfield with a lethargic first half. All seemed to be going well heading into half time, the Union had a few offensive series when they looked dangerous.
The Union bagged a goal early off in the second half, Gabriel Gomez free kick that took the slightest of deflections. Then came the Timbers scoring three consecutive goals. Rookie Andrew Baptiste, new DP Kris Boyd and second year man Kalif Alhassan were the goal scorers for the Timbers.
Possessions was hard to come by for the Union as they held just 44 percent of them. At times the midfield looked lost with a lack of form. The midfield did not hold shape and in return did not have open players in dangerous spots. The Union had an inability to link passes together and make over lapping runs into attacking third. It seemed at times the Union liked to play compact instead of stretching the field and taking the ball wide. Several times Freddy Adu took the ball in the middle of the field and ran into 3 or 4 defenders. One positive is the return of Keon Daniel, who looked stellar coming off the bench. The predators quick passing, solid footwork and constant movement is something to get excited about in the upcoming games.
The Union offense struggled to create chances, a few strikes from distance but never anything that was troubling Troy Perkins. Pajoy seemed to fit in up top but was unable to create any real chances. Martinez had a lackluster debut. He was hardly involved in the attack and at times seemed to disappear.
The defense was the darkest spot for the Union. On top of McMath’s howler he still showed that he does not like to catch the ball. It is worrisome because it could cost the Union in future games. New signing Porfilio Lopez was the biggest liability being constantly out of position. As a unit the defense seemed to be disjointed and lacking communication.
No need to worry entirely Union fans. It was only one game and expect to see a lot of improvements in the next game. The Union need time to gel together. Also expect improvements between Gomez and Carrol. Once they figure out how to play together the entire midfield production will increase.
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