Atlético Ottawa travel outside of Ontario for the first time this season as Carlos González’s men face FC Edmonton on Sunday.
Having picked up two points in their last four games, Ottawa head to Alberta in the quest of their first three points since beating HFX Wanderers in April but, despite the lack of wins, González isn’t too concerned.
“I think we deserved a little bit more in some games,” said the Atleti Head Coach. “We have to keep working hard so that we improve on some key details which will make the results better in the future.”
Canadian midfielder Ben McKendry, who was a vital component of Atleti’s midfield last season, scored his only goal of the campaign last time out at Clarke Stadium.
Competition for spots in the middle of the park is rife this year with new signings Abdoul Sissoko and Ollie Bassett, as well as the returning Chris Mannella, all vying for the same spot, but the 29-year-old is relishing the challenge.
“It’s fantastic,” said McKendry. “It’s important for any team to make it difficult for the coach to select his XI and this is a huge strength of ours this season, we have depth in positions all over the park. Everybody is ready to contribute and add something to this squad.”
Due to a change in ownership during the off-season, FC Edmonton are a side still in transition and faced an uphill battle to put together a squad for the 2022 CPL season. However, they have done so and despite not picking up a win so far this season, they are a competitive side who have put their opposition to the test in each game.
Next week Ottawa return to the nation’s capital for training, before finishing their stint on the road the following weekend in what is a much-anticipated re-match against Valour FC in Winnipeg.
Player to watch: Brian Wright (forward)
Much like in midfield, there is significant competition for places to lead Atlético Ottawa’s attack this season. Malcolm Shaw, Brian Wright, Ballou Tabla and Vladimir Moragrega are all currently battling it out for a starting position with Head Coach González showing his willingness to rotate up top.
However, having been rested last week (and with his prior record against the Eddies) Wright is likely to have an impact this weekend, whether it’s as a starter or from the bench.
Opposition
Recent form: L-D-L-L-L
Top scorer: Kacher; Timoteo; Ulbricht; Warschewski (1 goal each)
Previous result: 2-1 loss to Pacific FC
League position: 8th
Head-to-head
Atlético Ottawa have never lost to FC Edmonton, besting their Albertan counterparts twice in four matches.
The last encounter between these two sides was a thriller at Clarke Stadium that ended 4-3 in favour of Atleti. Striker Brian Wright bagged a brace before Ben McKendry and Alberto Soto each scored with a wonderful strike to ensure all three points.
Match Lookahead: All you need to know about this Sunday's road clash with FC Edmonton - Atlético Ottawa
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