Rotation was the name of the game in Seattle on Saturday afternoon, giving a bevy of fresh faces their chance to shine. In this week’s Video Room, we take a look at Jay Chapman’s influential play in the midfield after getting his first starting nod of the season.
The Situation
Coming off of a short week and a brutal travel schedule, head coach Greg Vanney deployed a new-look starting XI that wasn’t up to their usual high-pressing tactics, but worked effectively nonetheless. Playing underneath Jozy Altidore, Chapman created a handful of chances of quality looks at goal.
The Play
The precursor to the goal-scoring move came in the 20th minute as the Reds looked to break quickly on the counter. Some quick passing starts with Benoit Cheyrou and Marky Delgado before Chapman comes to collect the ball near midfield. In two touches, the Canadian controls the ball into space before releasing Justin Morrow down the left wing.
Chapman does well to stay with the play, checking back to give Morrow an option to keep the play alive. After receiving the ball near the top of the 18, he quickly switches the point of attack to the opposite wing, giving Delgado a great look at goal.
The opening goal wasn’t to be on that occasion, but just two minutes later, Chapman played creator once more.
With Altidore taking up space wide left, the striker began his run towards goal. Chapman identified the run and once again dropped away from goal to give Jozy an outlet. It worked to perfection as Altidore’s presence drew the attention of three defenders before combining with Chapman.
A moment’s hesitation from the defence was all Altidore needed to slip into the area, and a quick one-two saw the American in on goal before Roman Torres hauled him down, giving the Reds a chance to take the lead from the spot.
via GIPHY
What They Said
Jay Chapman: “We have a good team and we have so many guys, like myself, that are ready to contribute in any way that they can. When you get your chance, you have to take it.”
