While I suspect there’s going to be some sort of retooling of the Austin FC roster regardless of whether the team makes the 2023 playoffs, making the playoffs seems a less likely scenario following its 2-1 loss to Portland on Sunday, meaning that the offseason would become the sole focus for the club and its fans after Decision Day.
There are three distinct directions sporting director Rodolfo Borrell could go. Let’s ponder those today (as I think we got to all the relevant quotes from Sunday’s match, there’s no media availability until after tomorrow night’s match, and we’re waiting for tomorrow’s injury report to see where Matt Hedges’ hamstring is and to confirm that Will Bruin’s entered concussion protocols — and though it was reassuring to see Bruin walk out of the locker room under his own power Sunday night, I’d be shocked if he’s available any earlier than the match against the Raps on the 30th.)
But first, we need a vibes check. Andy Nietupski (who graciously shares his photos here) got this priceless shot from late in the Timbers match.
You feeling good now? Me too, friends!
To the pondering!
