Better late than never, yeah? A second opponent Q&A this week, with the Bethlehem Blast Furnace podcast to get a handle on the Steel:
1) What were the expectations for the Steel heading into the season. Through two matches, have those been adjusted at all?
We expect a home playoff game. We were the 8th seed last year, bowing out in the first round to eventual champion, Louisville. We’ve had a good win, and bad loss in the first two games, but I think the expectation still remains the same.
2) Who are some of the top players to look out for offensively and defensively? How much roster turnover was there from last year?
There was a ton of turnover, but some of our core guys have returned. Offensively, look out for newcomer Brandon Allen. Rookie of the Year runner-up, Santi Moar returns, as does our Captain James Chambers. Both were key in making the playoffs last season. Defensively we have a few questions. Matt Real and Mark McKenzie will float between BSFC and Philly all year. We lost Auston Trusty, our star center back to the union this year, and he will be tough to replace. Brandon Aubrey, another newcomer will fill his role.
3) What has the relationship with the Union been like? Have players moved up to MLS from the Steel (or been loaned down from the Union) on a regular basis?
The relationship with the Union has it’s pros and cons. On one hand, we get some ringers that come down for a game here and there. The problem is the Steel are often used for rehab games for injured players, which can lead to substitution problems. Last season Seku Conneh had to play the last 20 minutes of a game on essentially 1 leg because Fabian Herbers did a 30 minute rehab assignment with Bethlehem, costing us a much needed sub late in the game. On the other hand, it’s cool to see some of the guys like Cory Burke and Anthony Fontana, who made their starts with BSFC, make an impact in games for the Union now that they have signed contracts with the first team.
4) What are the Steel expecting to experience in their first game against a club that’s new to USL?
We expect the team to win. Nashville has built a solid squad, and has been decent their first 2 games. Bottom line is we have to win our home games. A new franchise, in our own house; we should get the win.
5) What do expect the starting lineup to be? Any specific predictions for the game (including a result)?
As far as a lineup, it’s always a surprise for us when it’s released. Another problem with the Union partnership is a lack of consistency in terms of a lineup. Chambers will always be there. With the Union being on the road this week, I would expect us to have Allen up top, Moar and Nanco on the wings. Najem at the 10. Chambers and another, maybe an academy kid, at the CM positions. Back line is going to be interesting with the injuries the Union have had. The only 2 I can really guarantee are Mahoney at RB and Aubrey at CB. Steel win 10000-0.
Ambitious result! Don’t forget to follow Bethlehem Blast Furnace on Twitter to find their podcast, check out my prior interview with Evan Villella and the full game preview!
Club and Country 