I don’t think our defense is actually an issue. Even when Leah and Steph aren’t haven’t the best matches I would not just take that partnership 10 times out of 10 (with De Almeida being very impressive I must say), but even with players playing out of position, the real weakness is on the other end of the pitch… and the touchline.
Obviously everything is connected. I get that, but putting the blame on Steph or Leah for losing matches is absolutely ridiculous in my opinion. Sure, they have made some mistakes but you know who has made considerably more mistakes over and over again? Fan favorite Foord. Sorry but her decision making has been so very poor and it doesn’t really matter how many touches she has in a match or what her heat map is… ZERO end product, no assists, etc. Her effort is second to none but effort without end product is not something I just get behind unconditionally.
I’m not picking on HER specifically because Olivia and Baum have been well below average and I think Caitlin has been “more important” yet only Russo is doing anything and plus she’s being asked to play out of position. Olivia is not a 9 and will never be a 9. Foord will continue to do what she does, etc, etc, etc but even if we let goals in, the amount of chances we have up front that aren’t converting is unacceptable. So if you’re gonna blame Steph and Leah then also blame the lack of sharpness from the forward players and the manager as well.
I get that Leah is the golden child. She deserves is and you will never ever see me criticize her or Steph. However there is valid criticism that could be accepted and I guarantee you they would take it and learn. What I absolutely reject is not just the insults and abuse but some people literally blamed Steph for Leah’s mistake only to make her a scapegoat because they cannot bring themselves to be critical of Leah… and this is the same attitude that some bloggers have, but that’s another story.
Was she out of position? yes.
Should Leah have done better?
Yes.
And?
This is football… people make mistakes and then your teammates support you and perform and things change, which is exactly what happened THIS match.
But the current situation is simply not sustainable.
In other news, seeing Cloe Lacasse assist the winning goal to beat out former manage’s San Diego Wave was absolutely glorious and I hope he loses every match he’s ever a part of, forever and always.
I’m that petty.
❤
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