Fresh off the valiant performance in falling just short in penalties in the challenge cup final. Gotham returns home to open the season at red bull arena in Saturday at 7pm.
Here are some story lines to follow.
- Is Sheridan healthy and ready to go?
Didi Haracic put in a terrific showing at the challenge cup with two shutouts and had undoubtedly raised her stock. Sheridan is an unquestionable starter and a top keeper in women's football. This is a shame for Didi as she proved she can start in this league. Either way Gotham is in capable hands.
- Houston's attack versus gotham's defence.
Few players in the world are having a better year than Kristi Mewis. Houston has forwards that can open up a game and punish teams for any mistakes. However, gotham's defence has been solid and keeping two shutouts through 5 games during the challenge cup. The goal is for Gotham to keep possession of the ball and be as tidy as possible so as to keep Houston's forwards to as little of the ball. That being said Gotham also had a penchant for playing risky back passes in the defensive third. If those flaws show up against Houston it's going to be a long night for whoever is in goal for Gotham.
- How to best utilize the attack.
Gotham is lacking a number 10 or attacking midfielder. Too often during the challenge cup Lloyd, purce and Monahan had to drop back to get the ball with no ball winner playing underneath. That means more work for gotham's forwards. Perhaps Brianna Pinto can be that player When she arrives or possibly zerboni when she returns. Another option is to drop lloyd as the 10 and put Viens to striker. This is the biggest question mark Gotham has. It will be interesting to see how Freya addresses this going forward.
- Welcome home!
Feels like forever and it still doesn't feel real, but we'll be back inside red bull arena for the first time in over a year! Going to be a great feeling. We will be live streaming the game on Twitter for all our followers.
Please join Ruby and Gary this Saturday.
See you there!!!