Following Tuesday’s training session, defender Derrick Williams and hometown midfielder Ajani Fortune spoke to local media about their takeaways from the LA Galaxy game and the importance of getting three points against Charlotte FC.
Nearly three weeks separated Atlanta’s final Leagues Cup game and its return to MLS action last weekend. On Saturday, the 5 Stripes looked refreshed and challenged LA Galaxy until the 76th minute, when the home side managed to open the scoring. Galaxy signing Marco Rues made his presence felt throughout the match, contributing a goal and an assist in his MLS debut.
Derrick Williams, a mainstay of Atlanta’s defense, talked about how good he thought the team looked in the first 60 minutes of the game. Williams said he felt the first half reminded him of Atlanta’s 3-1 win over Miami in May. The club is looking to take the positives from that road game against Los Angeles and apply them moving forward.
“I thought we looked dangerous. They didn’t look like they were going to take us down and we were catching them on the counterattack. Hopefully we can apply that to Charlotte.”
Atlanta United have already faced Charlotte once this season at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. On June 2, they played one of the strongest first halves of the season. A goal, awarded after VAR confirmation, turned the tide of the match in Charlotte’s favor.
“The goal gave them life,” Williams said. “Looking back, I think we could have scored three or four goals in the first half. In the second half, we came out and they made adjustments. They were pressing high and we have to be aware of that.”
One of the bright spots in the game against the Galaxy was the play of midfielder Jay Fortune. The homegrown player has made 19 appearances for Atlanta, six of them as a starter. Fortune, who told local media that he played forward as a child, showed flashes of his offensive abilities during Saturday’s game. Committed to continuing his recent strong play, he knows how important the rivalry against Charlotte is — a “dogfight,” as he called it.
“I think we both know it’s an important game for both of us,” Fortune said. “It’s a derby that both teams are going to want to win. They’re playing at home and they’re going to give it their all in the game. It’s important that we start with intensity.”
The 5-Stripes have eight games left in the regular season, including Saturday in Charlotte, and are currently fighting for a playoff spot.
Fans not attending the game in Charlotte can enjoy the action with the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as listening to it on local radio stations 92.9 The Game and La Mejor.
