Soccer side unable so far to live up to its potential
Julian de Guzman can’t pinpoint what went wrong.
He’s been here since the start, first as assistant coach, then named interim head coach 18 games in.
Most everybody felt the Ottawa Fury was a legitimate United Soccer League contender, a team that could challenge for a top four spot in the Eastern Conference and a home playoff game.
Instead, three games from the finish line, the 13th-place Fury FC is anything but.
“I can’t say that our guys haven’t tried or given their best,” de Guzman said after returning from a 1-0 loss Wednesday in Harrisburg, Pa.
“It has been a grind, both mentally and physically, this season. This is the honest reality and test for those that want it more. It is going to come down to who wants it more.
“If we want to win, we need a complete performance. That comes down to each individual’s intention and passion behind their roles — whether they are playing or not playing.
“This Sunday, I just want guys that are ready to give it their all. This game is going to come down to what the guys are willing to sacrifice and if they are up for it, I’ll be able to tell that just by looking at them.
“We’re also looking for this mentality for the rest of the season — who is willing to put their hand on the fire and suffer for this club.”
To date, it’s been the fans doing the suffering, witness to just seven wins all year — five of them at TD Place.
Of those seven wins, just two have come against teams currently in playoff positions and three were against the only two teams that trail Ottawa in 14th and 15th place.
Their overall record against teams in playoff positions is two wins, eight draws and six losses.
That’s good for just 14 of a potential 48 points.
The Ottawa record against teams not holding playoff positions is only slightly better at seven wins, four draws and four losses.
That’s good for only 19 points from a potential 39.
Not enough on either count.