Forget tactics for a moment, because Tuesday at the Training Ground was all about the ultimate mood boosters: adorable golden retrievers! Our friends from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta brought therapy dogs Queso, Reggie, and Peppa out to hang with the players, staff, and even the media as part of AMBSE’s Mental Health Month. And let us tell you, those pups were living their best life in the sun and on that beautiful green grass, making fast friends with everyone they met!
The vibe around training has been a big focus, and what better way to keep spirits high than with three furry bundles of joy greeting you after a tough session? As our own Jay Fortune put it, “It helps brings the vibes up, calm everything down. I was tired walking off the field, and it helped bring a little bit of life to everything.” You can’t argue with that!
While the weekend’s draw against Nashville was a step in the right direction, that late equalizer still stings. But the focus is forward, and with Chicago Fire on the horizon this Saturday, May 10th, the Five Stripes have a golden opportunity to level them on points. And it sounds like the positivity around the training ground, boosted by our four-legged visitors, is exactly what the team needs!
Speaking of Jay Fortune, this Homegrown talent has been making waves, starting the last two out of three matches on the left wing. A natural midfielder, Fortune’s versatility is shining, especially his incredible dribbling skills. The stats don’t lie – he’s in the top percentile for progressive carries and successful take-ons amongst midfielders in comparable leagues! He’s not just keeping possession; he’s driving the ball forward, creating opportunities.
Fortune himself credits his upbringing for his adaptability: “growing up, my dad focused on trying to get me an education to play anywhere on the field.” And his connection with Pedro Amador on that left flank? It’s growing stronger every game, with those one-twos causing real problems for opponents.
Even after the puppy love and the drills, Fortune was putting in extra work, focusing on his finishing as he gets more time out wide. That dedication is the Atlanta way!
Training itself has been sharp, with those intense, small-sided scrimmages forcing quick decisions – something Coach Deila emphasizes. Fortune even bagged a goal in one of those tight drills, with Miranchuk also finding the back of the net. It’s all about sharpening those instincts and making the right calls under pressure.
Matt Edwards echoed the positive shift, noting the team’s strong first half against Nashville and the focus on replicating that for the full 90 minutes. Sometimes, it’s about keeping it simple and staying positive, and having some adorable, tail-wagging support on the sidelines definitely helps with that!
So, Atlanta, the team is feeling the good vibes, working hard, and ready to battle Chicago Fire this weekend. Let’s bring that energy from the stands and help them secure those crucial points!
Up Next: Atlanta United vs. Chicago Fire, Saturday, May 10th! Let’s Go, You Five Stripes!
