Union Omaha drew 0-0 to MLS II side, New England Revolution on Saturday, July 25 in Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The inaugural game for both clubs in USL One ended scoreless as both teams are granted a point.
Here are three things from Union Omaha’s match against the Revs.
Strong Backline
Anchored by starting goalkeeper, Rashid Nuhu, the Owls were able to keep a clean sheet. Nuhu delivered a crucial save in the 82’ when Ryo Shimazaki of the Revolution fired a shot from 35 yards away.
Centerback Daltyn Knutson was a stalwart for the Owls. He provided four clearances and three tackles which led the Union Omaha backline. Defenders Abdul Illal Osumanu and Luke Hauswirth were also strong. Both players made crucial tackles and clearances when called upon.
The trios communication with Nuhu created a tidy backline that was no nonsense at times, clearing the ball to the opposite side of the pitch. The defense was the star of the show for the Owls in their opening game.
Viader’s Crossing Ability
Damia Viader’s quality in crossing the ball was evident for Union Omaha. Viader completed 60% of his passes while completing four successful crosses. The Spaniard created the most chances for the Owls with three.
He whipped over seven long balls into the box which was one of the few effective ways to get the ball forward for Union Omaha. Viader was one of the more quality players in Gillette Stadium due to his ability to cross the ball including set pieces.
Viader sizzled a long shot from outside the box just over the bar in the 16’ off of a set piece. That was one of the lone attacks that troubled the Revolution in the first half.
Cohesion
One of the main struggles for Union Omaha in their first game was their cohesion and spacing especially in the first half. Many passes were off the mark in the opposite direction of the intended target. The Owls were credited for 72% pass accuracy in the game, but it slid to 55% when in the Revolution’s half of the field.
The Owls struggled with cohesion, but do not expect that often. The team will only get better as the squad trains and performs with each other more and more throughout the year. This negative will not be as evident as the year rolls on.
Next Week
Union Omaha takes on 2019 USL One Champions, North Texas SC, at 7PM CT at Werner Park next Saturday.
Who Gives A Hoot? 