STATS CORNER | Set-Piece Specialists

Heading into the midway point of the Spring Season, patterns are starting to become trends. San Francisco Deltas midfielder Cristian Portilla and Jacksonville Armada FC midfielder Jack Blake have proven dangerous in set-piece opportunities. While a return of a creative element to Indy Eleven’s attack is much needed after Ben Speas’ injury lay-off.

Follow below for some key stats heading into Week 9:

More, Speas

It’s been a small sample, but the return of Speas to the lineup will be a welcome sign. Of Indy’s seven games, Speas has featured in three of them. The Boys in Blue have looked like a much different side going forward when he’s in the team. Indy has scored six times in Speas’ three appearances, but have only scored twice without him this year.

Scoreless In Indy

Since 2016, Indy Eleven is tied for the most games drawn at 0-0. The Boys in Blue, along with FC Edmonton, have drawn six times in scoreless affairs. Indy’s last two home games have finished with a 0-0 scoreline and during the club’s record home unbeaten streak, which stands at 21 games, the club has only been shutout twice. The club will look to get back on the scoresheet at Carroll Stadium this weekend against Miami FC.  

Set-Piece Specialists

Portilla and Blake have been the two most dangerous players from dead-ball situations through Week 8. Blake has created eight chances from set plays, while Portilla has created seven. Both midfielders have two assists from set pieces. Portilla recently scored the game-winning goal for the Deltas in a 1-0 win over FC Edmonton. Blake also scored in Week 8 from a dead-ball situation, scoring from the penalty spot in the 3-1 loss to North Carolina FC.