Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, 8: Nothing any goalkeeper in the world could have done to stop the first goal. ... Great reflex save to deny Dom Dwyer in the second half on Orlando City’s only scoring chance.
Right fullback Julian Gressel, 7: Playing his sixth position this season, and doing so this time on about a day’s notice, Gressel showed again why he’s so valuable. ... He did give away gave Orlando the ball back on the play in which it scored its first goal, but otherwise did well to stop Orlando attacks down his side. ... Earned his 10th assist on Josef Martinez’s goal. Of those 10, nine have come to Martinez. ... Gerardo Martino said Gressel played well.
Centerback Michael Parkhurst, 7.5: Parkhurst does what he typically does: a clean, smart, tactically astute game. Other than his header, what did Dwyer do to threaten Atlanta United’s defense?
Centerback Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, 8: Scored the opener by touching in a spill by Joe Bendik in the 21st minute. ... Had a chance for another in the 49th minute on another free kick, but his glancing header went wide. ... Ditto on Dwyer.
Left fullback Chris McCann, 7.5: Earned that free kick that turned into Gonzalez Pirez’s goal. ... Had a bit of trouble dealing with Chris Mueller, but for the most part neutralized his threat.
Holding midfielder Jeff Larentowicz, 7.5: Ate up counter-attack after counter-attack as he and Eric Remedi are developing a strong parntership in the middle of the field. ... His shot in the first half almost turned into Josef Martinez’s historic goal after Bendik couldn’t handle the heater.
Midfielder Eric Remedi, 7.5: Good distribution, good tackles, good vision. ... Proving to be an astute signing.
Attacking midfielder Miguel Almiron, 8: Helped team complete more than 90 percent of its passes, including an amazing 82 percent in the final third against a packed-in defense.
Right midfielder Hector Villalba, 7: Not really as effective as he has been in previous weeks, but did play a part in helping free Julian Gressel for the assist on Josef Martinez’s historic goal.
Left midfielder Ezequiel Barco, 8: His well-hit free kick couldn’t be handled by Bendik, which led to Atlanta United’s first goal. ... Very good with the dribble, very good at keeping attacks going.
Striker Josef Martinez, 10: First shot on goal came about 10 minutes into the second half. ... Made history in the 74th minute by chipping Orlando City's Joe Bendik.
SUBS
Miles Robinson (on for Villalba, 83rd minute), NR.
Romario Williams (on for Martinez, 90), NR.
Kevin Kratz (on for Barco, 90), NR.
About the Author
