Expectations
Atlanta was expected to compete for MLS Cup; Darren Eales said it himself. Most people expected the Five Stripes to win a major trophy this season as well. Even after the team lost on Decision Day, thus losing the Supporters’ Shield, there was still the feeling that if Atlanta didn’t win a trophy the season would be a lost opportunity.
The team did it, winning MLS Cup in just their second year. It is easy to say they met expectations, and most fans will say they did just that. But it is harder to say whether or not the team surpassed expectations.
With the Supporters’ Shield in the team’s grasp for almost the entirety of the season, it’s fair to say Atlanta probably should have won the trophy. They had the opportunity up until the last minute and, if they had won the Shield and then the Cup, it would be easy to say the team surpassed expectations.
As for MLS history, this individual team might not rank among the best. But for an expansion team, this two-year run is impressive. Winning the MLS Cup is a feat in and of itself, but for a team to do it in its second year of existence is even more impressive. Atlanta United met their fan’s expectations, giving a starved city its first championship in 23 years. That, more than anything else, is precious enough for a city desperate for sporting success.