What great night! Entertaining match, fantastic goals, great management from Jay, hard to ask for more! The biggest storyline (in my mind) coming in to the match was around Sam Howard, so I’ll attempt to evaluate how Sam did, as well as, explore at least one person’s feeling that we turned the ball over at midfield a lot, and talk about Shak Adams, a sure fire bet to make team of the year.
1) Sam Howard filled in admirably.
Let’s start with the non-data driven approach to the question how did “Gianna’s boyfriend” do? There is no doubt that Sam made the most dramatic save in the history of the club in the 77′. If you haven’t rewatched it, do it now, I’ll wait. The save answered my pre-game question, will Sam answer the call the one time he needs to with a resounding yes. The UO GK standard “two saves or less” in a game aside, it did seem like Sam had more to do than Rashid normally does and that it was a little more dramatic. That isn’t very objective so let’s dive in here and figure it out starting with season stats for the two players.
Season cumulative stats for Union Omaha goalkeepers.
Thanks to the “Brick Wall” defense, our goalkeepers have not seen a lot of action making this a very small sample size. That said, in about 1/3 as much time on the pitch, Sam has more interceptions, catches, and punches than Rashid. With an interception, catch, and punch against Tucson, Sam was showing us things Rashid has done very rarely or never.
One thing I wanted to see the quality of Sam’s distribution on the night. I used Rashid’s game at home against North Texas as a benchmark since the games were similar in being home games where our opponents dominated possession but we won.
Sam Howard Distribution vs. Tucson (Home)Rashid Nuhu Distribution vs, North Texas (Home)
The numbers here very similar across all categories. Let’s look at the pass charts.
Sam Howard all passes vs. FC Tucson (Home)Rashid Nuhu all passes vs. North Texas (Home)
I’d argue that Sam’s chart actually looks better than Rashid’s here and that Rashid has been quite solid for us.
So I think a number of factors made it seem like Sam had a lot more to do and was somewhat dramatic doing it: one, dramatic saves, two, a lot more action at the back, three, Sam had two bad passes, specifically, the ones that barely made it into the middle third of the field and went out of bounds, four, Sam’s frustration after these mistakes was visible across the stadium and finally, I was paying more attention to Sam since he was replacing Rashid. But the data here is clear Sam did just fine and Gianna is correct!
In case anyone was wondering @howso99 is REALLY REALLY GOOD AT HIS JOB. @Union_Omaha 👏🏽🔥
This question comes from friend of the column, Sean R, who wanted to see how many midfield turnovers we had. Well Sean, I don’t know how to pull that data specifically, so let’s look at our passing in the midfield instead.
All passes in the midfield Union Omaha vs. FC TucsonAll passes in the midfield Union Omaha vs. FC Tucson: MidfieldersAll passes in the midfield Union Omaha vs. FC Tucson: Defenders and Attackers
Looking through these charts I’m not sure you can suss out much relevant information, but I’ll give it a whirl. Looking closely, I think there is a meaningful handful of passes that started and ended within the midfield that were unsuccessful that would have made an impression in Sean’s mind. Let’s drill down one more time to see if there is anything notable about those missed passes.
Unsuccessful passes from the Midfield: Union Omaha vs. FC Tucson.
That’s actually a pretty ugly chart. We had 16 unsuccessful passes from the heart of the field. 8 of them were long passes toward goal which would have a lower percent chance of being completed. However, the other 8 passes were unsuccessful within the midfield area. If these passes were evenly distributed we would have been see one about every 11 minutes, but if you look below the field in the above chart, you can see they were densely clustered toward the end of the game.
In conclusion, Sean, we had a bunch of unsuccessful passes from midfield and half of them were very short and about half of them were in the last 20 minutes of the game.
3) Shak Adams *shiver*
It seemed to me that Luke Hauswirth was happy to be subbed off the field in the 73′, I can only assume he was relieved to see the last of Shak Adams. Sure he scored a goal and that was not our finest defensive moment, but it was his run and pass that created the chance in the 77′ for Sam’s big save, and his job tracking back to try and mark Christian Molina before he scored was preposterous (alternate angle here). Highlights aside, Shak consistently was in our penalty area. He had 9 touches in our box. Compare that to 6 for Evan Conway, 5 for Elma Nfor, and 4 for Ethan Vanacore-Decker.
Shak Adams Heat Map: Union Omaha vs. FC Tucson
Shak also had three, dribbles all in dangerous places. Compare them to every dribble our players had.
Union Omaha dribbles vs. Shak Adams dribbles
While Shak Adams impressed, we did a great job of defending him. Players with pace generally do a good job at drawing fouls but Shak drew one all night (Sousa’s yellow card the minute he subbed into the game).
All fouls won by FC Tucson
For our last chart, we’ll compare Shak’s fouls won with those of the Triple E offense.
Fouls won: Shak Adams vs. Triple E
Just like our win last night, you love to see it.
Note: I enjoyed answering Sean’s question. If you have a post-match question you want me to explore tweet me @union_omaha_ben OR find me any other way you know how.
Usually, roommates do everything together. They eat meals together, play video games or watch television. But, not all roommates score their first ever professional goals on the same night together.
Midfielders Devin Boyce and Christian Molina achieved this feat as Union Omaha was victorious over FC Tucson 2-1. The Owls remain undefeated in League One play and sit in third place with 12 points, one point behind Richmond Kickers for the final playoff spot.
Boyce connected on a shot in the 16’ which opened the scoring for Union Omaha.
“It bounced up pretty high and there weren’t many areas I could put it in the net,” Boyce said. “I tried to pick my spot and it worked out well.”
Boyce strikes a shot for his first goal as a professional against FC Tucson. Photo by Liam Keating
The St. Louis University graduate has been a fan favorite this season. Boyce has earned a reputation as a hard nosed tackler, one who is not scared of the moment.
“Im not your stereotypically number 10. I was raised to go as hard as I can go,” Boyce said. “I vowed to never step off the field and not work as hard as I possibly can for that game.”
Boyce wheeling off in celebration after the opening goal against FC Tucson. Photo by Liam Keating
Molina replaced Sebastian Contreras in the 63’ as the game turned on its head. Union Omaha was battling for possession with Tucson all night, but Molina’s presence was felt immediately.
In the 78’, the Owls were on the counterattack. Substitute Ferrety Sousa won a huge header off of a cross from Tucson. The header fell to Ethan Vanacore-Decker who turned and sprinted up field. The Owls were on the move.
Vanacore-Decker slipped a great through ball to Molina who calmly put it in the far corner for the game winner.
“The noise after the goal, it was incredible and celebrate with my teammates, it was an amazing feeling,” Molina said. “Im very happy for the team that we got three points.”
After the goal, Molina celebrated with the El Salvador flag who he has represented at the U-23 level.
“I think it’s great how we have all of our flags up there. We have a very diverse team,” Molina said. “I love how the Salvadorian flag is up there. I wanted to kiss the flag and tell the Salvadorian people that I am here.”
Molina kissing the Salvadorian flag after his first professional goal against FC Tucson. Photo by Liam Keating
Molina waited for his chance and earned it. Last week, Molina started against North Texas SC and was subbed off in the second half by Head Coach Jay Mims.
“He had a couple chances against Dallas [North Texas SC] to go one v one and be aggressive and he passed the ball instead,” Mims said. “So I said, ‘Christian if you go in the game, you’re in there because of your one v one, of you scoring goals, you can’t be passive.’ Sure enough, what happens, first touch, goal.”
Molina’s first professional goal was a long time coming through grueling training sessions and tough games, but Boyce noticed his dedication.
“He [Molina] has had the best attitude out of anyone that I have met. His approach to every training session, every game has been exactly the same,” Boyce said. “If he gets one opportunity, he’s going to take it. I couldn’t be happier for him to get the winning goal tonight.”
The depth of the Union Omaha squad is noticeable as more and more substitutes are making impacts for the club.
“We want guys off the bench to do that [score goals]. We are an up tempo, aggressive [team],” Mims said. “We go and we go and we don’t stop. If you are going to play that kind of way, you cant just play eleven guys.”
Starting goalkeeper Rashid Nuhu was ineligible for the game due to suspension so backup, Sam Howard, was needed between the sticks.
Howard making a save during his first start against FC Tucson. Photo by Liam Keating
Howard reacted with a huge save in the 76’ just prior to Molina’s goal. He made the point blank save from Tucson striker Azaad Liadi. The chance for the Arizona club started with left winger, Shak Adams burning the Owl defense. He fired a low cross to the top of the box to Liadi when Howard made the save of the game.
“That is a huge save. I scored the goal, but it is a team effort,” Molina said. “If he doesn’t make that save then it’s a different game. Great job for Sam, we’re really proud of him. He played well today.”
Over 2,000 socially distant fans saw Union Omaha stay undefeated this season as the raucous crowd helped the Owls get across the finish line against Tucson.
“It makes a huge difference, we hear the fans throughout,” Boyce said. “It’s so fun.”
“Our fans were into it tonight,” Mims said. “They were incredible, I was happy.”
Union Omaha returns to action when they face 10th place Orlando City B on Sunday, September 6th at 7PM CST.
We are back on the saddle after a couple of frustrating performances by Union Omaha. a 1-1 draw at home to Forward Madison and a 2-2 draw on the road against North Texas SC. The finishing has been a lot better but our brick wall defense is starting to show some cracks, and going against a good run in form FC Tucson, its going to make tonight’s match up a tough one. Biggest difference between the Owls and FC Tucson? We are still undefeated. Lets make some money!
Just a friendly reminder to everyone, Who Gives a Hoot is an independent podcast, and we have no affiliation with Union Omaha. I know just as much information about players as you all do: Zero. Zip. Nada. So when you read this article please only read this article coming from somebody who has gambling experience. No bets are guaranteed.
The forecast for this evening’s match is expected to be 82 degrees F by kickoff, with a low humidity and a slight gentle breeze at 5 mph. Should be a good night of soccer folks, but don’t be surprised if its again another frustrating night. Without Rashid in the lineup due to a red card in the last match, its going to be the first time we see Sam Howard in between the sticks, which is going to be rough against FC Tucson who recently discovered their run of form
Lets make some picks folks:
Luke Hauswirth, 0.5 Assists + Goals, Over 135
Luke Hauswirth is going up against former club FC Tucson, where they had scored an amazing goal when Union Omaha met them at his former home stadium. Luke being a super sub last game and almost getting the game winning goal against North Texas, you better expect him to be a part of a goal in some way, shape or form tonight. Take the over on Luke or you’re a coward.
Ethan Vanacore-Decker, 0.5 Assists + Goals, Over 125
The last 2 games have been a struggle, and that is a massive understatement. But there has been 1 bright spot in the entire squad, and that is the Uncle Rico of USL League One. My MVP. He graciously gave Seba the penalty against Forward Madison, and he put the team on his back to steal a point from North Texas by nabbing both an Assist and a Goal. He is going to win the golden boot this year and make no mistake he will score a goal in tonight’s match up.
Illal Osumanu, 0.5 Goals, Under 55
If the North Texas SC road game taught us anything about this brick wall defense, its that Illal Osumanu should start every single game. That defensive performance has by far been the worst I have ever seen from this brick wall defense, and if it wasn’t for EVD’s heroic efforts that game would’ve, and should’ve been a loss. Rashid’s red card and the 1st minute golazo aside they should not have allowed 2 goals to North Texas. With Illal back on the pitch the cracks in the defensive wall should be patched, but don’t expect him to be in an attacking presence.
Tyler David, 0.5 Assists + Goals, Under 65
Tyler David was left out of the squad in the North Texas game for rest, and it was much deserved. The midfield was taken over by JP Scearce, who scored a beautiful header, but I think the midfield would’ve been more organized and would’ve been better on the defensive if Tyler David was in there. I think going up against a very hot FC Tucson team were going to need Tyler David in the midfield. I don’t expect him to be up though trying to score goals.
Elma Nfor, 0.5 Assists, Over 135
For my last pick I am going with Elma Nfor. He came off the bench in the North Texas game but made an instant impact that almost netted him a few assists. I think he is going to be starting up front against FC Tucson and if you don’t think he’s going to dish it up to EVD or Luke you’re brain is BANANAS.
ICE Pick: Jacob Crull, 0.5 Goals, Under 50
Jacob Crull was in a different position during the North Texas match and played a wingback position and played shockingly well in it. Crull is under ratedly quick. If Crull is in the XI tonight and is playing in this wing back position I see him more in a long ball assist role than I see him in a goal scoring role.
ICE Pick: Damia Viader, 0.5 Assists, Over 145
The Theo Hernandez of USL League One has played a full 90 in almost every single match for the Owls this season. His last match we finally saw him be subbed out for Luke Hauswirth and you know that going to take a toll. Damia is so much fun to watch on the pitch but I got a sneaky suspicion that for the first time this season we don’t see him in the lineup so he can get the much needed rest. But if we do see him go up against FC Tucson, expect him to nab his first assist for the club. His crosses and his attacking talent is electric and its going to come before you know it.
So there we have it folks. My favorite Thrive Fantasy picks for Union Omaha’s Saturday night match up against FC Tucson at home. If you would like to follow along with these picks or make your own suggestions then head on over to thrivefantasy.com or download the ThriveFantasy app now and use promo code HOOT when you create your account. When you use promo code HOOT and you deposit a minimum of $10 or more you will receive $10. That’s free money folks so head to over to ThriveFantasy and #PropUp on the Union Omaha Match.
If we go on to finish second in the league, I think we will look back at this stretch as a springboard to that finish. For the next five games, we should be favored in the next four and then we face Richmond, our primary rival at the moment for 2nd place. Even given that amount of pressure to perform, I’m more relaxed about this game than I have been for a game in weeks. Let’s dive into the questions that I’m looking to get answered this week:
1) Can Sam Howard fill the gloves of Rashid Nuhu?
After enduring heaps of unpunished abuse from Ronaldo Damus, Rashid lost his cool for a split second and will get a game off in the stands for his troubles. If you haven’t seen the video yet, please watch this video from my colleague Liam Keating.
Maybe the league didn’t have this video when they overturned Damus’ red card, but regardless, they did not overturn Rashid’s. As such I think we’ll see Sam Howard in goal. Our defense has not asked Rashid to make a tremendous number of saves. He has averaged 1.2 saves per game by far the lowest of all goalkeepers in League One. There are 11 goalkeepers above him on the total saves rankings including multiple North Texas keepers. I don’t expect our goalkeeper to have a lot of work to do, so will Sam answer the call when his time comes to make his save (or two) count for us?
Alternatively, what happens if Jay surprises all of us and starts Brian Holt? Brian last played about 21 days (05/07/19) before Sam’s last start (05/30/19) but, Sam has been our backup keeper for months now time when Brian was working a desk job. Just want to cover my bases since I’ve learned that Jay makes his selections on practice form and a number of factors not obvious to the outside world and I do like to look prescient.
2) Does Dami finally get a goal or assist?
One of the reasons for my sense of optimism this week is that we should be starting our strongest lineup again on Saturday, although see last sentence of point #1. Most of those players are in good form at the moment. I think with the Triple E offense on the field again for the start of a match, we could finally see Los Buhos score more than two goals in a match. Two players will be key to that: Dami and EVD.
Dami is currently tied for third in the league in chances created with 12. I would love to see him get a goal or an assist to help validate that creative effort. With JP Scearce scoring our first set piece goal on Sunday, I’d love for the floodgates to open on scoring from set pieces and crosses.
3) Does EVD make his closing argument for player of the month.
Ethan Vanacore-Decker had a goal and assist in the last match (and won the penalty against Madison) and didn’t make the team of the week. Outrage! My leading candidate for MVP should be a leading contender for player of the month with 2 goals, 3 assists, and 1 penalty won, contributing to 100% of Union Omaha’s goals in their, so far, undefeated month of August. For the league to recognize this he probably needs something spectacular like a Goal of the Week candidate.
Personally, I’d love nothing more than an entertaining romp through FC Tucson on a beautiful night at Werner Park. Something like the game away in Tucson but with us scoring more and them scoring less. But, I’ll take the 3 points anyway they come, and I’m sure Sam, Dami, Ethan and the other Owls will too.
Bonus) What simple action can we take to combat systemic racism?
With other sports teams around the country making a powerful statement with wildcat strikes this week and USL teams, the ones that are playing, taking the first seven minutes of the match in silent reflection, I’d imagine our boys will be playing on Saturday but letting the clock run for seven minutes before any meaningful action. I applaud them for using their platform to share their beliefs. As a fan and civic minded Nebraska here is one important thing you can do before the match to help combat systemic racism in our state.
Contact your state senator and ask them to support coming back for a special session to address racial justice reforms. Find your senator here and send them an email from your heart. Costs nothing and takes less than 5 minutes. Viva Buhos!
FC Tucson vs. Union Omaha 8/8/20 in Tucson, Ariz. Photo by Simon Asher; used with permission of Union Omaha.
In the 82’ of Union Omaha’s home game against Forward Madison, Elvir Ibisevic, local college soccer legend, was fouled just outside of the box. As Elvir was trying to get up, the Forward Madison player trailing the play, Jiro Toyama, got in his face and began harassing Elvir. A full ten seconds after the initial foul, Devin Boyce, a name soccer fans in Omaha learned less than a month before, arrived on the scene, shoved Jiro out of the way, and hung around the scrum with his arms spread open as if to ask: “who else wants some of this?”
For me, this was the moment Devin Boyce arrived in my life. Like everyone else, I was stunned when the presumed ‘depth signing’ started the first match in club history. Even as his name appeared again and again on the team sheet, I failed to grasp the caliber of player that Devin is. Having been signed so close to the start of the season, he was deprived of the deep dive treatment our other signings have had from official club channels and the burgeoning media empire known as Who Gives a Hoot?. All of this is to say, I knew almost nothing about Devin as he continued to don the white and black week in and week out. Without any backstory, I had no connection to him as a player. But, watching Devin shove a Flamingo out of the way and then stand around ready to tussle with anyone wearing a drip kit, a connection was forged in my heart.
When asked about the shove during our interview the next day, Devin took a moment to recall the specific incident, as if that moment from the game that is seared into my mind, is so mundane to him that he needs prompting to recall it. When I give the specific minute of the game and a brief explanation of the incident, his memory is jogged and he tells me, “For me as a teammate, I’ve always considered myself a guy who wanted to make sure his team is not necessarily protected, but is safe. I’m a fiery guy and passionate on the field. Anything to get the crowd involved, anything to get my teammates a little bit of extra energy, anything to push us in that direction of ‘let’s go win this game’, I’m always here for. So, if it takes roughing a guy up a little bit to get people excited…then you know sometimes you’ve got to play that part.”
Would you expect anything less from a player who grew up idolizing Paul Scholes? The Manchester United fandom was a gift from his father, Barney Boyce. Barney played pro soccer in the United States for twelve years and would share stories from his NASL days (playing against George Best, playing with Johan Cruyff) with Devin. They would watch United games on Sunday mornings, and growing up in this environment Devin fell in love with the game.
FC Tucson vs. Union Omaha 8/8/20 in Tucson, Ariz. Photo by Simon Asher; used with permission of Union Omaha.
Barney would coach Devin (and Austin Panchot) until the age of twelve on youth club teams in the St. Louis Scott Gallagher FC (Scott Gallagher) program. Even in these early days, Devin played in the center of the pitch, began the process of learning proper technique, and learned where everyone was on the field. Father would push son as his coach until adolescence, and he did not go easy on his boy. “He wasn’t gonna let you off the hook. You’re running around the neighborhood if you’re missing shots and stuff like that. So it was good he pushed me and I loved it. He really brought out a competitive nature in me.”
Around the age of twelve, Devin began “playing up” in the Scott Gallager structure, and being coached by paid coaches within the SG system. Devin played with these teams until his freshman year, when he began playing high school soccer. While playing with these youth teams, he played on fun teams, won state every year, and even saw a U-14 team he played up with make a run at nationals. At that age Devin notes he was with, “A lot of the guys I had been playing with for a while, and it was just a fun developmental time where” play was “competitive and we’re playing a million games and loving it, because your body can take it.”
For high school, Devin stayed close to home attending Christian Brothers College High School (CBC), a prep day school about five minutes from where his family lived at the time. He played soccer under coach Terry Michler for CBC his freshman and sophomore years, winning a state championship his sophomore year.
After two years at CBC, Devin switched to a US Soccer Developmental Academy program (USSDA) at Scott Gallagher (Scott Gallager DA). “I was trying to get recruited by schools, and I felt that that was the best way to do that.” That team was stacked with many future pros including: Austin Panchot, Mark Segbers, Tom Barlow, and AJ Palazzolo.
Given Devin’s pedigree and the high level at which he played throughout his college years, it was a surprise that, even as a four star recruit, he didn’t resolve his college recruitment until January of his senior year of high school. When he did select a school, he picked a non-traditional soccer powerhouse: the Lobos of University of New Mexico. He redshirted his freshman year and then played two seasons including 39 matches, with five goals and seven assists from his usual central midfield position. While Devin has played on some good teams, the Lobos stood out to me in particular with 10 players from Devin’s redshirt freshman year having signed pro contracts or been drafted by MLS teams. (Niko Hansen, Chris Wehan,Aaron Herrera, Patrick Khouri, Tom Smart, Josh Goss, Jason Beaulieu, Sam Gleade, Devin Boyce, and Ford Parker.)
After three years at UNM, Devin began to explore the transfer market. (Note: Devin got out just in time, the Lobos only played one more season of college soccer after he left before shuttering their fairly successful program.) His coach from his time playing at Scott Gallagher DA, and Jay Mims college teammate and close friend, Kevin Kalish, had just taken over the legendary soccer program at St. Louis University (SLU). As such, Devin chose to return home and make his mark at the college program he had grown up supporting, citing the passion of the fan base. “That was a huge reason why I went back and played for St Louis University. It’s just awesome being around a community that has the same passion for the game that you do.” Having routinely watched SLU games, he was familiar with Tyler David when he arrived at Union Omaha.
FC Tucson vs. Union Omaha 8/8/20 in Tucson, Ariz. Photo by Simon Asher; used with permission of Union Omaha.
Like any player of Devin’s caliber and pedigree, he spent time playing in USL League Two. The summer between playing for New Mexico and SLU, he played five games for Colorado Rapids U-23 before an injury sent him home. While subletting his friend’s house for the summer, he got to train with the MLS team on a weekly basis, and had a blast living in Denver. The following summer, before his senior year of college, he played for Brazos Valley Calvary (BVC). (Christian Molina and another player who was at our combine and in camp for several weeks played for BVC last summer, too.)
Devin shined at BVC finishing joint third in all of League Two with seven assists. He also had four goals and three yellow cards in twelve regular season games. For those not intimately familiar with League Two, Brazos Valley is a hybrid affiliate of the Houston Dynamo. Accordingly, the Dynamo selects all of the players. Having impressed the Dynamo brass, Devin returned to school for his senior season.
Upon graduating at the end of the Fall 2019 soccer season, Devin had little reason to suspect he would be undertaking a wild journey, as he made plans to attend several combines. But his wild ride was just beginning.
Going undrafted in the MLS draft despite his eligibility, Devin was snapped up on trial to Rio Grande Valley Toros FC (RGV). He played right back for four to five weeks and did not have a great time. “I was not getting great energy that I was going to be picked up there, but I was still being strung along and for a while I was thinking I was going to (sign) and in the end they didn’t end up picking up my contract. So at that point it was like a week and a half from the season starting.”
From there, Devin ended up on trial with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. While there, he played center midfield and a little bit of attacking wing, but then the COVID crisis hit and his contract was not picked up. Again. As the country began to shut down, Devin went to his parents’ house in South Carolina to train and stay ready.
FC Tucson vs. Union Omaha 8/8/20 in Tucson, Ariz. Photo by Simon Asher; used with permission of Union Omaha.
“So I was there, just working and training for probably three months. Just spending time with family, working out hard, and trying to keep focused. It was definitely a difficult time mentally, to keep yourself pushing and staying positive that something’s going to pan out. Thankfully, I was able to make that time useful and when I got (to Omaha) I was ready.”
After three months of waiting, Devin got the call that would bring him into all of our lives in early June. “The first call was from my college coach at SLU (he said) there might be an opportunity at Union Omaha. ‘I know the coach there and he was asking about you and thinking about bringing you out on trial. And he wants you to get in touch with him.’ So I called Jay and he asked: ‘how early can you be out here? We’re starting up again and we want to bring you out on trial.’ It just all happened so quick and you know I was all for it. (Especially) having known guys here (Austin Panchot, Tyler David) and knowing about Jay I was like ‘wow, it really seems like a match made in heaven’. So I was really pumped to get that call from him.”
Who can blame Devin for feeling that way? The COVID-19 pandemic has been stressful for everyone. Personally, my career has been disrupted, but I have years of work experience to fall back on. I cannot imagine being on the cusp of achieving a lifelong goal like starting a pro soccer career and suddenly finding yourself adrift like Devin was.
But Devin’s attitude is unbeatable. He told me, “I told myself I was just going to get in my van and go find a place to play. If it takes one team or five teams, I know someone’s gonna like me for what I do and I was confident that once someone took a chance on me that it would get started. That’s why I’m just so grateful to be where I am now. It was definitely a journey getting here, it was a long path.”
I know I speak for many when I say, I’m glad the path has led you here, Devin.
Union Omaha and North Texas SC finished in a 2-2 draw after a chippy, physical match that left both teams yearning for more.
North Texas SC opened the scoring with a banger of a goal from Edwin Cerrillo. Cerrillo was dropped by parent club FC Dallas this so he could start for North Texas to earn playing time. Of course, Cerrillo did not disappoint.
North Texas whipped in a good ball in the 2’ that was headed away by the Owl defense. The ball landed at Cerrillo’s foot and he blasted a shot past Union Omaha goalkeeper Rashid Nuhu. The shot came from over 30 yards out as Nuhu had zero chance of saving the incredible goal.
The rotated lineup for the Owls saw midfielder Tyler David and defender Illal Osumanu not make the team for their trip to Texas. It is unclear if Head Coach Jay Mims left them off of the team due to injury or rotation of lineup. Nevertheless, the Owls struggled without them.
Turnovers in the middle of the park were abundant as the midfield could not control the pace of the game. North Texas were on the front foot for most of the game as they were able to fire chances at goal due to the mistakes of Union Omaha.
A strange sequence occurred in the 51’ as two players were sent off with red cards. North Texas had a great opportunity to score, but the shot was directly at Nuhu who collected the save. North Texas player, Ronaldo Damus tried to poke the ball out of the hands of Nuhu who had the ball securely in hand.
Nuhu charged at Damus in disgust as he shoved his forearm into the back of his head. The referee had no choice. but to send Nuhu off for his actions. The referee also sent off Damus for instigating the altercation.
The game would finish with 10 men for each team. Second choice goalkeeper, Sam Howard, replaced Nuhu for his first cap of the season.
Union Omaha still down 1-0 were in search of the opening goal. North Texas struggled on set pieces all night due to their lack of height. North Texas dropped usual starting center back Lamar Batista for this game. Batista is excellent in the air utilizing his 6-foot-6-inch length to clear dangerous balls whipped into the box. But, Batista never saw the field.
In the 75’, Union Omaha put to use their height to score their first goal. Ethan Vanacore-Decker delieverd a great cross off of an Owl corner kick to the front post of the opposing goal. Midfielder JP Scearce was there to flick the cross to the back post to score. This was Scearce’s first professional goal.
Minutes later, North Texas marched down the field when Alex Bruce slipped between the two center backs of Union Omaha who were playing a high line. Bruce cut back the ball and passed to his teammate at the top of the box. Gibran Rayo collected the pass and scored with a shot towards the left portion of the goal for North Texas.
Union Omaha’s crossing ability was spectacular on the night as Jake Crull got in on the action. Crull delivered a delicious cross towards the back of the box in the 84’. Midfielder Ferrety Sousa won the aerial duel as the ball landed on Sebastian Contreras thigh and from there landed at the foot of Vanacore-Decker who calmly put it in the back of the net.
Vanacore-Decker has been the team’s MVP for the majority of the season so far. He has been involved in every single goal for the Owls. His celebration or lack there of capped off a grueling night for the Owls who exited Arlington, Texas with the 2-2 draw.
What a game! Los Buhos got sucked into the MoneyGram Soccer Park chaos in a big way last night. I called the game a must win yesterday afternoon, but by the final whistle I was thrilled we grabbed a point. Red cards, getting late goals, giving up late goals, golazos, the drama! I can’t be the only one very relieved we are done playing the youthful agents of chaos from Dallas. While we were undoubtably quite bad in the first 50′ of the game, I’d argue we won the second half despite giving up what might go down as the sloppiest goal we give up all season. Let’s dig in starting with the centerbacks who were exposed on that play.
1) Jay seems to have two centerback archetypes.
Having a left footed left centerback is obviously important to Jay, look no further than the conversion of Jake Crull to centerback (for the sake of this argument please ignore every other reason that move made tons of sense). It’s been clear that Jake and Daltyn have been rotating through the LCB spot and Nathan Aune has been backing up Illal at RCB.
Nathan and Daltyn started at CB last night. I’ll let other pundits in the WGaH media empire debate that choice, but I felt that left or right footedness aside, Nathan played Jake’s role and Daltyn played Illal’s role. Let me explain…with data.
North Texas v Union Omaha: CB pairing General Stats
Daltyn made shorter passes and more accurate passes than Nathan did. Compare that to Illal and Jake from our game against Forward midweek.
Union Omaha v Forward Madison: CB pairing General Stats
I made the argument after the Tucson game that Jake is making more attacking passes than Illal hence the lower accuracy. Certainly that passed the eye test in this game with Nathan starting the attack from the back and Daltyn getting into the attack much less frequently.
2) Nathan Aune digs the long ball.
It was Nathan’s season debut yesterday and he brought something different to the game, the long ball out of the back. In the first chart in point #1 you can see that 8 of his 38 passes were long passes (defined by Opta as a pass 35 yards or longer aimed at a teammate). This is over 21% of his passes, the second highest such percentage by a centerback all year.
North Texas v Union Omaha: Nathan Aune successful passes
Compare Nathan’s chart above to the highest long pass rate of the season: Jake at home to North Texas.
Union Omaha v North Texas: Jake Crull successful passes.
Nathan’s passes look longer and more direct when you compare the charts and it seemed that way last night.
North Texas (blue) v Union Omaha (black): All players, clearances, interceptions, and defensive blocks.
At the end of the day, we escaped with a point, we remain in third, and we have a nice four game stretch ahead of us.
4) Elo rankings!
To prove my point, let’s take a look at this week’s Elo rankings. You can refresh yourself on Jon’s methodology here.
Greenville Triumph
1592
North Texas SC
1537
Union Omaha
1536
Forward Madison
1536
Richmond Kickers
1513
Chattanooga Red Wolves
1491
FC Tucson
1489
Fort Lauderdale CDF
1483
South Georgia Tormenta
1467
New England Revs II
1451
Orlando City B
1387
Week 7 Elo Rankings
Five our next six games are against teams in the bottom 5 of this weeks Elo rankings. Accordingly, I’m going to spend the week optimistic about our chances for Saturday and the next month of play. I’d encourage you to do the same.
Not much of a preamble today, this is a big game for us.
1) Are we a good team?
First, let me apologize to all Kickers fans reading this today. I called your team “okay” in this column on Wednesday and honestly, that isn’t fair. While Greenville is in a class of its own, there is no getting around the fact that Richmond has the same or better results as Union Omaha against our common opponents (they won at home to Madison, they won at Revs 2, they beat Tucson 2-1 albeit at home instead of on the road). That draw against Tormenta looks better after the Storm beat the Red Wolves on Saturday and they put two goals past Greenville in a loss.
A quarter of the way through the season it seems, to my uneducated eye, there are two groups of teams and then Greenville. Group one is made of most of the teams in the league that can win against each other on any given night. In the second group of teams are a few teams that will rise above that and should expect results against every team in the first group, and then there is Greenville. I feel obligated to say Richmond is in that second group at this point. If we want to remain in that second group and compete for a title this year, we need to win at Texas tomorrow night.
We have a fairly easy schedule for the shortened season. We only play Richmond and Greenville once each and they are the only two teams above us on the table. Second place is ours for the taking, but we need make these games in hand count. Three points in Arlington would help a lot.
2) Will their leaky defense spark our offense?
If you eliminate about 10-12 minutes at the end of the Tucson game and the start of the Madison game, we’ve allowed zero goals. BUT, we’ve scored four goals total. (Obligatory plug for my EVD4MVP campaign: Ethan Vanacore-Decker has been involved in all four goals.) Four goals scored in four games puts our offense in joint last with the bottom two teams in the table.
The good news is North Texas is the worst defense in the league. Time for the boys to eat. The players clearly had a bad taste in their mouths after the Madison game. Hopefully, they will show up hungry and put a few in the back of the net.
3) Can our rotated lineup produce a result on the road?
We covered this a bit before the Chattanooga game that wasn’t. The only ray of light from that dark afternoon is that we have a good sense of what the rotated lineup will look like. On Wednesday night, after our draw with Madison, I sat in the post match press conference covering for the Quarantine College Kid, Liam Keating. When questioned about his substitutions Jay mentioned that Elvir had scored more goals than anyone else in practice in the previous seven days. He also mentioned that Ferrety was on a hot streak in practice as well. Both of them looked good on Wednesday and I think Jay rides those hot hands and gives them their first starts for Union Omaha. My predicted lineup is:
Forwards: Elvir, Juan Mare Midfielders: Sebas, Devin Boyce, JP Scearce, Ferrety Sousa Defense: Dami, Daltyn (if healthy, if not Jake), Illal, Luke Hauswirth GK: Nuhu
Given the importance of this game (see point #1) Jay should have the Triple E offense ready to come in as early as the start of the second half if needed. I’d like to see him a bit more aggressive with his substitutions than he has been in previous games.
The Owls are back in action as they face North Texas SC in their return leg that features the USL One defending champions. Kickoff is slated for 8PM CST at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas.
Union Omaha
Their last match, was a tough, physical game against Forward Madison. It led to each team scoring one goal which finished in a draw. Sebastian Contreras earned his first goal for the club with a paneka style penalty kick as Ethan Vanacore Decker earned the penalty inside the Madison box.
Union Omaha dominated possession against the Flamingos. The Owls had over 60% possession as they controlled the flow and style of the entire game.
Do not expect the Owls to earn a high portion of the possession against North Texas. North Texas thrives on playing out of the back while creating their chances utilizing build up play. This starts with the goalkeeper moving all the way to the forwards; ala Pep Guardiola.
The middle of the park will be key for the Owls success against North Texas. Midfielders Contreras and Tyler David dictated the game against the Texan club last time out even without the ball. Their ability to communicate and the keep the team in shape helped the Owls counter when they earned the ball. This is a key to success for the Owls and something to watch out for in this away leg.
North Texas
A strange season so far for the returning champions as they have yet to hit form with their only win coming in week 1. North Texas faced two of the bottom feeders in USL One in their last couple of matches. Their game against last place New England Revolution ended in a 3-3 draw at home.
Last game, North Texas lost to newly minted club, Fort Lauderdale CF 3-2. Former Creighton University alum, Ricky Lopez-Espin scored a brace for the Inter Miami affiliated club which gave them all three points.
The issue for North Texas has been turnovers especially turnovers at the wrong time. North Texas is leading the league in passing percentage at 84%, but the majority of their conceded goals are coming from lackadaisical passes from the center backs and goalkeeper.
The first goal that North Texas conceded against Fort Lauderdale was an ugly, Ill timed sequence from North Texas. Goalkeeper Carlos Avilez stood on top of the ball for far too long which invited pressure from Fort Lauderdale. He hurried a pass to his teammate, Derek Waldeck, who scuffed a pass straight to the opposing player. Fort Lauderdale was inside the box in a hurry and Lopez-Espin was able to bury the opening goal.
North Texas needs to clean these mistakes up if they want to beat Union Omaha and get back into the playoff picture, but right now their clumsy passing is hurting their chances at a repeat title.
Lastly, North Texas winger, Benjamin Redzic came off of the pitch against Fort Lauderdale with a knock in the 15’. It is unclear if he will play against Union Omaha. His attacking style of play along with his creativity makes him one of the most dangerous players for North Texas. If he misses the game due to injury, North Texas may struggle for goals against a stout Union Omaha defense.
My Prediction
Union Omaha 2-1 North Texas SC
It is hard to see North Texas cleaning up their backline issues after such a short layoff since the Fort Lauderdale game (4 days). But, playing at home will help the Texas club. The Owls will have added motivation to earn three points and solidify their spot as the second place team in the league. Two Union Omaha goals in the first half will help them see the game out to victory over North Texas SC while the Texas club is left scratching their heads in eighth place.
What a game last night. Statistically, we dominated in almost every category, but it didn’t feel like we dominated. I went home relieved we salvaged a point, but frustrated that we left two points on the field. Others I talked to also were frustrated with how the game played out. I will dig into the data and share some insights that might explain that frustration
1) Passing and Possession aren’t everything
We had 64.3% of the possession in this game and we made 490 passes. This is about 8% more possession and 10% more passes than our previous high for each stat. Let’s look at where our successful passes were:
Union Omaha v Forward Madison: Union Omaha successful passes
Notice the lack of successful passes in the box and the final third? Here is all passes attempted in the final third.
Union Omaha v Forward Madison: Union Omaha successful and unsuccessful passes in the final third
I see a lot of successful passes away from the opposing goal and a lot of unsuccessful passes toward the goal. But wait, let’s add crosses into the mix…
Union Omaha v Forward Madison: Union Omaha unsuccessful passes and crosses
To me, this begins to explain the feeling of dissatisfaction. Lots and lots of balls into the box and in attacking positions that were unsuccessful. Check out the same chart from the FC Tucson match
FC Tucson v Union Omaha: Union Omaha unsuccessful passes and crosses
Overall, the direction and volume of unsuccessful passes is what I’d identify as a statistical explanation for the frustration fans are feeling.
2) Ferrety Sousa had a great shift
Last night, Ferrety played a bit of the Elma role from our first two games. All energy, all action super sub off the bench. Here is a chart of all the actions Ferrety took last night.
Union Omaha v Forward Madison: Ferrety Sousa all actions
Compare that to Elma’s super sub appearance against North Texas that won him a starting spot.
Union Omaha v North Texas: Elma Nfor all actions
Obviously, this is not an apples to apples comparison, but it was a successful appearance for sure for Ferrety.
3) Madison didn’t bother to attack very much.
Every single ‘mingo’s average position is either touching the midline or in their defensive half. This is the first team we’ve played who have not had multiple players in the attacking half.
Union Omaha v Forward Madison: Average positions.
I’d give credit to our league leading defense (based on shots allowed), but anyone who watched the game could see Madison wasting every second they could from the 8th minute onward.
Who Gives A Hoot? 