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I think we’re saying the exact same thing friend, Paredes thrived more because he had less responsibility in possession and the game was more open. I meant that at home when we’re on the ball a lot and dictating tempo more than usual (still not a ton) like we have the previous two games, Paredes doesn’t provide much in terms of connecting the defense and offense, which is something I felt we needed more of in those last few games. He tends to disappear from games like that when we need a little extra from our midfield. Hopefully I’m proven wrong Saturday!

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I don't think we're saying the same thing! Paredes IS the defense - wins the ball - and then connects. We've been getting more shots off in a good chunk of games lately and that has to do with winning the midfield and providing opportunities. I'm a bit confused by "responsibility in possession" comment. He provides a lot of key passes.

Again - midfield isn't issue here, it's solid. It's the discombobulation of the front three. And I think that comes from guys playing out of position or not the right guys playing.

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According to Fotmob, Paredes was 0/1 on his tackles vs Vancouver, but was 4/6 last night. 2/2 accurate long balls and successful dribbles, 7 recoveries, 3 clearances, and interception and a block. Stats you get in a more open game when you’re playing more against the ball. So yes, he wins tackles and then connects... when he has tackles to win. He had none of those stats vs Vancouver or Austin (more vs Austin, who posed more of a challenge, but still not much), despite having more touches.

Don’t mistake me thinking Paredes had been bad the previous two home games, it’s just personal preference of what I think those games could’ve used. Part of not having as many tackles or defensive stats is due to closing up the midfield and forcing them to go around (though tbf I believe Vancouver leads the league in crosses and I think Austin is up there as well, especially without Driussi, so it’s kinda what they do regardless, but eh, I want to credit Paredes for that).

In possession, Paredes has been much better on the road than at home in providing forward or key passes imo. I don’t think he’s been as effective when the game is set and we’re passing it around the back waiting for spaces to open up or someone to get on the ball and progress the play, and he’s not usually the guy to do that. That happens when we’re at home playing with the ball, not so much on the road. It’s not an issue, just something I’ve wanted to see more of the past few games

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Vancouver isn't really any good. I'm glad we mopped the floor with them. RSL is better, and organized, and a better measuring stick of all the players.

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