QUOTE SHEET
Chicago Fire 1:2 Minnesota United
RECAP
Veljko Paunovic, Chicago Fire head coach
On the 2-1 defeat to MNUFC
"It was a tough second half for us. We conceded two goals after a very good first half I think. I think defensively we were very solid and did a good job creating opportunities and moments in a game where we can score. We conceded goals too easily and that’s something that we have to improve and keep working on that. We’ll look to turn to the next game."
On Bastian Schweinsteiger’s absence
"Bastian’s wife is expecting a baby and was supposed to get surgery in the last training. We basically had to switch what from we prepared, but that’s something that happens in this sport and in every sport. We were ready for the switch, but unfortunately in the second half we couldn’t keep the good game we were playing and the score that we were looking for which was 0-0 until we found an opportunity to score which happened later in the game. Again, conceding goals wasn’t helpful."
On Elliot Collier, Kevin Ellis and Rafael Ramos’ first MLS starts
"I think their attitudes were right. I am happy that Elliot scored his first goal, but also when the team loses everyone loses. There’s a lot of jobs to do."
On Daniel Johnson’s substitution
"We switched the way we wanted to play. We expected that he could find good pockets and spots on the field. When we pushed higher with three strikers, he could be the guy who could win one vs. one, pick up second balls and impact the game. I don’t think he found the opportunity."
On his message to the team
"We have to stick to together and keep working. We need to keep our faith and that’s it. I’m obviously not very happy with the performances so far."
Elliot Collier, Chicago Fire forward
On his MLS start
"It was a tough game and I thought we had moments where we did well. It was nice to score my first MLS goal, but it’s a shame that we lost the game."
On his first MLS goal
"I saw Niko in front of goal and if Niko’s in front of goal he normally scores, but the keeper made a save so I just had to follow up."
On how team picks it up after second loss
"I think we have to take some time to get our heads back in the mindset of getting better in practice and getting back to work."
On the change of pace of the game in MLS
"It’s definitely a step up and more physical. The speed of play is faster and you get punished for your mistakes. You have to be cleaner on the ball and you have to think faster."
