Gotham made quite a run at the cup. Falling just short in penalties to Portland Thorns. Here are some things we've learned throughout this run.
- Gotham has arrived!
Not only have they arrived but they proved that they are a top team. Gotham went blow for blow against the perennial powerhouse North Carolina FC and took a loaded Portland team to penalties. Portland had essentially cruised through the tournament until the final. At no point did Gotham look overmatched. Gotham created chances and for 89 minutes kept a potent attack toothless.
- Defence keeps you in it.
3 out of 4 games in the group stage were shutouts. The defence including Cudjo and Haracic put on a spectacular tournament. As a coach or player you know that if you don't give up goals you always have a chance to win games.
- Didi is a rising star
I can hear the phone over at Gotham hq ringing tonight. Didi proved through this tournament that she's a starter in this league. I'm sure she's caught the attention of other teams and her stock is rising. Haracic was good with her feet and with her hands. Commanded her area and led a stout defence that included 3 shutouts. Haracic was positionally sound and came up with multiple big time saves. Sheridan is one of the top keepers in the world and it's the rightful starter if healthy. But Didi proved again that she can play at this level and deserves a look as a starter even if it's not with Gotham.
- The missing piece
What was missing in this tournament was a creative mid. Monahan, Lloyd and Purce are as good as any attack in the league. But no one was giving them the service for them to break games open. Often times dropping back to retrieve the ball just to get a touch putting them further away from goal. Maybe Pinto when she arrives can be that central force. If Gotham can can find ways to get the ball to those three attackers it will balance out the defence and offense and make this a complete team.
- Paige can play
Monahan was my player of the tournament. Paige put in a ridiculous amount of work. Both offensively and defensively. She was popping up everywhere. Hustling back on defence and then stretching the opposing defense. Made smart runs and connected a ton in the attack. At 24 Paige has still some time to grow and can be a force as she develops.
- This team is fun
Freya has built a confident group of players with a distinctive style of play. There is a ton of talent in this team and with the addition of Allie Long and soon Brianna Pinto this team is going to put on a show. We're so excited over here at Soccer over Gotham. We hope you are too.
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