If you are unfamiliar with the concept of The False 9’s La Murga Report, click here.
When Silence Speaks Volumes
A few hours before kickoff on Sunday morning, La Murga announced that they would lead a moment of silence, beginning in the tenth minute, to honor victims of domestic and intimate partner violence.
I have always been a fan of La Murga. The entire concept of the La Murga Report was born out of respect and admiration for the passion that they bring on matchdays. But I can honestly say that I’ve never been more proud to support them than I was on Sunday. They took the opportunity during a nationally-televised game to show that their love for their community outshines anything happening on the field or in the stands, and their silence held a mirror to those in Austin and in the greater soccer world who would rather not talk about intimate partner violence at all. So thank you to everyone in La Murga for taking a principled stand. You were already the heartbeat of Austin, and now I know that your heart will always be in the right place.
If you have not yet done so, please consider supporting The SAFE Alliance. Now let’s get to the numbers.
What Songs Were Played, and How Many Times?
Random notes: Sunday was the debut of “Pepas,” which I think will have legs as soon as the supporter’s section learns the words. Also, with Eric Burton of Black Pumas in attendance, a performance of “Colors” was pretty much guaranteed.
What Songs Were Playing When Austin Scored?
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What Songs Were Playing When Austin Conceded?
Random thoughts: For the second week in a row, “Dale ATX” saw the lone goal scored by the opposition. As the old adage goes, once is an accident, twice is a coincidence, and three times is a pattern. I’ll be monitoring this situation closely as it develops.
Season Totals
Final Thoughts
As mentioned earlier, “Dale ATX” has hit a bit of a skid and is now at the bottom of the table by net success percentage. Meanwhile, things remain really tight at the top, with “Ole Ole Ola,” “Let’s Go ATX,” and “Bella Ciao” forming a peloton in pursuit of the number one spot. Will the title of Song of the Year be won by an actual song? Only time will tell.
Housekeeping note: neither of the next two opponents allow enough instruments in their stadiums to have a Murga quorum, so the La Murga Report will be on sabbatical for the next two weeks. In its place, be sure to check out The False 9 travel team’s reporting from the road.
H.E. Pennypacker
H.E. Pennypacker spends far too much time thinking about Austin FC, much to the consternation of his friends, family, and employers. He could really go for a sandwich right about now.