(NashvilleSC.com, 05.04.19)

KENNESAW, Ga. — It’s not a Nashville Soccer Club match without some inclement weather. A 60-minute lightning delay interrupted a first half punctuated by two early Nashville goals to give the visitors a 2-0 win over Atlanta United 2 on Saturday night in Kennesaw, Ga.

An early own goal from Atlanta United 2 followed by a figurative lightning strike from outside the box by midfielder Matt LaGrassa gave Nashville the early 2-0 lead. Then in the 34th minute, a 60-minute literal lightning delay interrupted the first half. From there, Nashville’s defense took over to see out the three points.

Three Takeaways

LaGrassa and lightning
When lightning strikes, LaGrassa scores. Three weeks ago against Memphis 901 FC, some bad weather delayed the start of the match. LaGrassa later got his first goal of the season in that 2-0 win. Tonight, LaGrassa beat the lightning. He scored his second goal of the season in the 11th minute to give Nashville a 2-0 first half lead.

Back to the basics
The last two matches, the Nashville defense looked a bit un-Nashville like, giving up five combined goals in the last 180 minutes. Tonight, the Nashville D looked much more familiar, keeping its fourth clean sheet to the season, the second for keeper Connor Sparrow. Nashville allowed just three shots on target in the match with a three-man backline of Justin Davis, Ken Tribbett and Bradley Bourgeois. It was the trio’s first match together as a centerback unit, and the group was organized defensively dealing with Atlanta’s athletic attack.

Continued dominance of Atlanta
Last year, Nashville SC beat Atlanta United 2 three times, not allowing a goal in the process. Saturday night looked much like 2018, where Nashville was opportunistic on offense and stingy on defense. Nashville has now outscored Atlanta 8-0 over four matches and has earned all 12 possible points against the MLS 2 side.

Up Next

Nashville SC returns home for a massive matchweek against the Tampa Bay Rowdies at First Tennessee Park. The game will be the first USL regular season match to be televised nationally on ESPN2.