The one where we put on a Wiley performance

Five Takes On The Five Stripes

1: Well that was quick. We haven’t seen that kind of fast and decisive attacking movements in the attacking third, with final product, in some time. We came out flying and caught Charlotte off guard. We have of course started fast before, but the difference this time is we put the ball into the net. Charlotte finally responded after the 2nd with some intensity of their own and a couple half chances but we did not concede and we did not wilt. We did what we have not done enough, step on the opponents throat and put the game away early.

2: So like we were saying, Caleb Wiley. That rising star may have already risen. It’s going to be a massive season for him. Those finishes had the calmness and composure of a veteran player. He’s giving Pineda a lot too think about. He’s doing what Jackson Conway failed to do. He’s taking his chances.

3: Luiz getting on the board with the type of clean finish we saw in pre season will be a massive boost for his confidence. When GG starts regularly one would think that will only improve if he can just put the mistakes out of his head and stay relax and composed.

4: Having both Brad and Miles back is absolutely massive. For the most part anytime Charlotte did spring a quick counter I found myself not feeling the same sense of dread as I did last year because I know who’s back their ready and able to put any fires coming their way.

5: The goals will come for GG. Not a whole lot produced for him in the second half but when you put the game away in the first, that’s bound to happen. It’s a long season but as of now, this is very much not 2022. Every game has seen improvements, this being the biggest step forward. Charlotte on the other hand, I think they’ve got wooden spoon potential.