I really feel like this didn't get enough attention.
So, let's run it back & chat about one of my favorite #RSL topics on social media this year ... the starting XI graphics!
Before we begin, I'd like to set the table:
- We love you, fam.
- Yes, we see your comments.
- Seriously, we love y'all. #RSLfamily
We good? Awesome. Let's get real. pun always intended
"Ok, Tyler. We get it. But what we really want to know is why? Why did you go with numerical order? Why aren't you showing formations this year? Also, your explanations & articles are getting too long. Stop. The only thing you & George R. R. Martin have in common is that you're as short as Tyrion Lannister. Boom. Jerk-face."
First off, words hurt.
Second, you're not wrong.
Third, is we're not showing formations because after a year & a half long discussion with important decision makers, going numerical was the right decision for us as a club.
Spoiler alert *
Yes, URFC starting XI graphics will be in numerical order too.
I don't know if y'all know this ... but coaches don't like to give away tactics.
Weird, right!?
On any given week, Mike, Laura & Martin may roll out players in different positions & different roles because that's what they believe is best for the team to succeed. What might look like a 4-3-3 in a fancy graphic could potentially be something completely different in real life.
Remember the LAFC match last summer when we didn't put out a lineup graphic?
We'll truth is we didn't put out the graphic because it would have been deceiving to our fans. If we put out our normal graphic, & then the team rolled out like they did ... we would have been lying to y'all. On the other hand, if we changed the graphic to match the actual "tactical" formation, we would have tipped off Bob Bradley & his staff.
See the conundrum?
Rock, meet hard place.
I like soccer a lot & I feel like I know a little bit about it ... but I'm definitely not qualified to tell you why Damir is lining up here & not there. And the official RSL handle isn't qualified either.
The evolution of soccer positions & tactics is extremely similar to other sports. The NBA is now "position less", MLB has defensive shifts on almost every at bat, the NFL has safeties playing linebacker & running backs catching more passes than wide receivers & hockey is still played on ice.
Bueller, Bueller ... anyone?
From a branding perspective, seeing your players in the kits they rep will always be a better option than a list of names.
Based on pure aestethics, our graphics are dope.
Dryden killed the look.
I know, I know, it's all semantics.
“But what formation are we playing, Tyler?! Just answer the darn question!”
My advice is this: watch the match on KMYU or the KSL TV app & continue to tell us what you think on all our official social platforms. I promise it doesn't go unnoticed.
"But is Corey Baird a winger or a striker tonight!?"
My answer: he's just a really good soccer player that plays where Mike wants him to play on any given week.
In the end, I think we can all agree with that.
Match: MLS Regular Season 4 of 34
Opponent: at LAFC
Venue: Banc of California
Time: 8:00 pm MT
Watch Parties: Click here!
Weather: 61 degrees & clear skies
TV: KMYU
Live Stream:Click here!
Radio: Click here!
Ref: Ismail Elfath
Kits: The New Glitch Kit!
