Philadelphia Union are headed to the quarterfinals of the MLS is Back Tournament after a 1-0 victory over the New England Revolution. Here are our UNIBET Pressing Points from Head Coach Jim Curtin’s postgame press conference.
Brick wall Blake and company
After being called one of the best goalkeepers in the tournament by opposing head coach Bruce Arena, Andre Blake delivered once again in Orlando with big saves in the 35’, 56’ and 66’ minute to collect his second clean sheet of the tournament. The performance was once again praised by Curtin but he also praised the play of all his defenders that came up with key clearances and tackles in the Union’s 18-yard-box.
“Andre Blake made some saves for us which is always necessary against a good team like New England,” Curtin said. “I thought that in particular the play of our outside backs defensively was excellent, whether it was making a big tackle, big block or clearance. Sometimes we expect them to be solid each and every game so it this is a time I think I can single them out and give them some praise. The job that Ray Gaddis has done all competition has been excellent, Kai Wagner as well. Our centerbacks have been solid, the midfield has been clicking a little bit better as the games have gone on.”
Scoring Santos
With an everchanging hair style striker Sergio Santos made the most of his final touch of the match with the game-winner to propel the Boys in Blue to the next round. Curtin said the final touch could have added motivation for the Brazilian with his fellow countryman in line to replace him should the shot of had been stopped.
“Sergio Santos probably had a better look in the first half where we wanted him to continue dribbling past Turner, he pulled the trigger a little bit quick,” Curtin said. “I am really happy for him to get that goal. Maybe he was a little motivated seeing Ilsinho up on the sidelines. He knew he only has one or two more runs in his legs, but it was a really good finish on a really good play and another really good goal for the Union.”
Designated Monteiro
After returning to the club as a designated player, Union fans saw just once more the importance of Jamiro Monteir as he delivered the perfectly weighted pass to Santos on the counter attack. Monteiro was all over the field leading the team in touches while completing nearly 90% of his passes.
“He was been really solid, both offensively and defensively,: Curtin said. “His work rate, the ground he covers, shows up on the TV screen but also in the data and the metrics that we see just how much ground he is covering day in and day out. He is a very special player and has the ability to make a final pass. In the second half, in particular, we got him a little higher up the field and closer to the strikers, because when he can receive the ball turn and face the defense that is when they have to drop, that is when they have to make decisions, do they step to him. He has a real quality there.”
