Boston have attacking potential, but in a different system – Equalizer Soccer

Photo Credit: Natalie Reid-Imagn Images

The Boston Legacy have shown a clear preference for operating with a back three in their inaugural National Women’s Soccer League campaign. Head coach Filipa Patão typically sets the team up with three center-backs, wing-backs on each side, two central midfielders and a fluid front three. But there is a case for them to alter their system.

Nobody can expect an easy 90 minutes against the Legacy, and that is a credit to Patão and her team. Since the very first game, they have defended with real intensity and aggression, using a player-marking approach, with a desire to impose themselves on their opponents. It hasn’t always worked, but it has often led to a high-tempo game that is tough for the opposition to deal with. At the same time, Boston’s attack has not quite clicked. Last weekend’s 2-0 win over Chicago gave a glimpse at how it might, though.

For that game, Boston set up with a back four. From right to left, it was: Bianca St-Georges, Jorelyn Carabalí, Emerson Elgin and Lilly Reale. The two central midfielders were the customary combination of Annie Karich and Alba Caño, though they were flanked here by Nichelle Prince on the right and Aïssata Traoré on the left. Amanda Gutierres spearheaded the attack, supported by Barbara Olivieri.