Caleb Porter left Wednesday’s 1-1 draw versus the Charleston Battery pleased with the energy and tactical progression of a starting lineup that was entirely new compared to last Saturday’s lineup against the Chicago Fire.
“I thought the way we played, especially in the second half, we deserved more out of the game,” Porter said, “but I liked what I saw out the group. It was a good energy, they played with confidence.”
Columbus Crew SC outshot the Charleston Battery, 17-7, including a 6-2 mark in shots on goal. Robinho earned his first goal with the Black & Gold after tucking in pass from Edward Opoku, who found the Brazilian in the six-yard box with a back-cut pass from the end line.
The Crew’s lineup featured a mix of veteran depth and youth, including two current Crew SC Academy players in Sebastian Berhalter and Aidan Morris, and two Homegrown players in Alex Crognale andAboubacar Keita.
Yesterday’s match was the first time in Charleston that two current Crew SC Academy players played together at the same time, and overall, Porter appreciated the energy and willingness from a lineup that doesn’t regularly play.
“Sometimes you don’t get that with guys that don’t regularly play and there were a lot of guys out there that don’t regularly play,” Porter said on the drive the team displayed on Wednesday. “I love the energy and the youth. For us to have two academy kids get time; [Sebastian Berlhalter] looked really comfy. Aidan came in, and it’s great to see young guys in there and showing that they can fit in. [Keita], obviously our Academy signing, played 90 minutes at left back, it’s not his normal position but I thought he was up for it, it was good to see.”
Following the match, Porter spoke on the importance of everyone finding their role within this team.
“I want a squad where everyone plays a role. I don’t believe in First Team, Second Team, and I need my squad and I need everyone. It was really pleasing to see them play as well as they did with 16 new players, completely new players.”
The Crew resume training on Thursday and Friday before taking on MLS expansion side FC Cincinnati on Saturday, Feb. 23 at 5 p.m. ET at MUSC Health Stadium. The match will be live streamed at www.CharlestonBattery.com.
