Every moment is different, so how can you prepare for every moment? You can’t. So, you give them tools to think for themselves and solve problems as they come.”
The turnaround
Despite their early struggles, Bay FC began to turn things around in June, going on a seven-game unbeaten streak that included four wins. They were able to secure crucial points against some of the league’s best – including a thrilling 3-3 draw with the Orlando Pride and a 2-1 win over the league-leading Portland Thorns.
“I think we’ve matured a lot,” Montoya said. “When you have a team that’s still young and still trying to establish themselves, they have to go through these moments. They have to feel what it’s like to be in these types of games and then how do we respond.”
Bay FC’s defense also tightened up significantly during this stretch, conceding just five goals in those seven games. The attacking prowess remained, with the team scoring 13 goals in that same span.
“We’ve been able to now understand the moments in the game where we can be a bit more pragmatic,” Potter said. “We can be a bit more conservative and we don’t have to have the foot on the gas all the time.”
Bay FC’s turnaround has been nothing short of remarkable, and they now find themselves on the cusp of history. A playoff spot would be a remarkable achievement for a team that was written off just a few months ago, but Montoya and his squad have proven that they have the talent and resilience to compete with the best in the league.
As they head into their final regular-season game against the Houston Dash, Bay FC will be looking to secure their place in the postseason and continue their incredible journey in the NWSL. With a talented squad and a coaching staff that believes in their abilities, the sky is the limit for this expansion team.
Montoya’s approach to coaching Bay has been centered around providing the players with the tools and guidance they need to figure out solutions on their own during games. He believes in training sessions that focus on developing the players’ skills and understanding of the game, rather than just giving them specific instructions to follow. This approach has not always been easy, as some players initially wanted to be told exactly what to do. However, Montoya believes that in football, it is important for players to be able to adapt and problem-solve on the field.
After a difficult start to the season, Bay found success in the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, where they were able to implement new strategies and build team cohesion. The tournament provided a reset for the team, allowing them to work on specific aspects of their game without the pressure of wins and losses. This newfound freedom and focus on individual relationships has helped Bay improve their performance and results in the regular season.
One key addition to the team has been Abby Dahlkemper, a Women’s World Cup winner who has brought experience and composure to the defense. Her partnership with Montoya goes back to her youth, giving the team a sense of familiarity and stability at the back. Bay’s defensive record has improved significantly since Dahlkemper’s arrival, with the team conceding fewer goals and putting in solid performances against tough opponents.
Bay have also made tactical adjustments to their style of play, shifting their focus from possession to a more balanced approach. While their goalscoring has been an issue, Montoya believes that creating chances and finishing them is the most difficult aspect of the game. The team has been working on developing relationships on the field and improving their movement and decision-making in the final third.
As the regular season comes to a close, Bay find themselves in a more competitive position, with a chance to make an impact in the playoffs. Montoya’s emphasis on player development and problem-solving has paid off, with the team showing growth and improvement throughout the season. With a solid defensive foundation and a focus on creating and finishing chances, Bay are poised to continue their upward trajectory in the NWSL.
Montoya’s Bay team has shown significant improvement in their performance, surpassing the achievements of his Gold Pride team from over a decade ago. Despite a slow start, the team has managed to turn things around and position themselves for a potential postseason run. This turnaround can be attributed to the team’s ability to recognize space, occupy space effectively, and expose their opponents’ weaknesses.
The technical director, Albertin, emphasized the importance of controlling space and dictating the flow of the game. By focusing on three key aspects – mentality, valuing possession, and controlling space – the team has shown growth and development. This growth has enabled them to compete effectively in any environment and contribute positively in every game they play. While results may vary, the team has shown resilience and competitiveness, often coming out on the winning side of close matches.
The club has embraced a strategic approach that involves learning from past mistakes and making better decisions moving forward. This willingness to learn from early setbacks has been crucial in the team’s evolution and progress. As a result, they have become a formidable force in the league, capable of taking on any challenge that comes their way.
In conclusion, Montoya’s Bay team has come a long way since their shaky start, demonstrating significant improvement and growth over the course of the season. By focusing on controlling space, valuing possession, and dictating the game, they have positioned themselves as strong contenders for the postseason. With a renewed sense of purpose and determination, the team is ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead and continue their upward trajectory in the league.
