With the FIFA international break in full swing, Ben Olsen and the majority of the Black-and-Red had a rare weekend off to reevaluate team strategy ahead of their final two matches of the 2017 season. After a tough stretch of four games in 14 days, three of which were on the road, the off weekend gave the players an important opportunity to rest and recover before they fly cross-country to face the Portland Timbers on October 15.
Naturally, a 34-game season coincides with player fatigue as the year progresses, making international breaks crucial as players have the chance to take a step back and refocus their efforts. In a regular season that lasts 232 days, averaging a game every 6.8 days, the Black-and-Red took full advantage of their non-match week, resharpening their mental game and recouping heavy legs.
“The off weekend gives us a chance to refocus and recover, especially after a tough week of training,” midfielder Ian Harkes said. “It also gives us a chance to study Portland a little bit. After the international break, we always come into training with a refreshed and recharged mindset.”
While the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs are now out of United's reach, the team's mentality remains determined, as Ben Olsen and co. aim to accrue as many points from the remaining fixtures as possible. Additionally, with six new players brought in during the summer transfer window, the Black-and-Red will focus on using their last two games to continue to grow and gel as a unit, while the coaching staff will look to keep their foot on the gas as they analyze team performance and push to end the season on a high note.
“We want to put in the best performances we can in the last two games," Harkes said when previewing the remainder of United's season. "Every game, we’re building toward the future and next year. We also want to put our stamp on the end of this season, especially with the last game being at RFK.”
With the 2017 Atlantic Cup still on the line and the last-ever match at RFK Stadium at the forefront of Black-and-Red fans' minds, United will look to return from the international break fiery, focused on ending their 2017 MLS season and their RFK tenure with a bang.
