While much attention was rightly paid to Atlanta United’s offense because that’s where the Designated Players are focused, the MLS expansion team’s defense has been just as solid through four games.
Led by captain Michael Parkhurst and fellow centerhalf Leandro Pirez, here’s a by-the-numbers look at the Five Stripes’ defense ahead of Saturday’s game at Toronto:
0
Goals allowed in any game between the 31st and 75th minutes. It has allowed one goal in the 16th-30 minutes, and two in the 76-90th minutes.
-
0
Atlanta United players in the starting five on defense (fullbacks, centerhalves, goalkeepers), who were called into international duty. Tyrone Mears and Leandro Pirez discussed last week how they took advantage of that to continue to improve their chemistry.
-
1
Penalty kick goal allowed, which came against Minnesota United.
-
1
Goal allowed on a corner kick, which came against the New York Red Bulls.
-
1
Goal allowed in two road games.
-
2
Shutouts by Atlanta United.
-
3
Tied for fourth-fewest goal allowed (3) through Sunday’s games.
-
14
Saves by Alec Kann, which is fourth in MLS through Saturday’s games.
-
46
Shots by opponents.
-
61
Interceptions by Atlanta United, eighth-most in MLS.
-
67
Tackles won by Atlanta United, fourth-most in MLS.
-
75.28
Tackle success rate, eighth best in MLS.
-
82.35
Save percentage for Kann, second-best in MLS this season.
-
240
Minutes since the team has allowed a goal. It’s the longest active streak in MLS and second-longest overall this season through Friday’s games.
About the Author
