Dom Dwyer brace offers Atlanta United vital goalscoring boost in US Open Cup win

At long last, three years since they won the trophy, Atlanta United began the defense of their US Open Cup title with a 6-0 win over Chattanooga on Wednesday night.

The oldest competition in US Soccer was suspended for the 2020 and 2021 seasons due to the coronavirus pandemic. Atlanta won the last edition in 2019, beating Minnesota United 2-1 in the final.

The Five Stripes finally took to the field in the tournament once again at home to NISA side Chattanooga. Though they were overwhelming favorites, Gonzalo Pineda's men put in a supremely professional performance.

Goals from Ronald Hernandez, Dom Dwyer (x2), Marcelino Moreno, Luiz Araujo and Brooks Lennon delivered an impressive 6-0 win on the night. Speaking after the match, Dwyer - who joined from fierce rivals Orlando City earlier in the season - insists Atlanta United are cut out to defend their title and lift trophies this season.

“I’ve got to say, when I got subbed off last 15, 20 minutes today, I was watching our team play. It’s beautiful to watch. I’m very excited and happy to be here and be a part of this club," Dwyer told reporters after the match.

"There’s a lot of talented players. As you can see, we had a lot of players missing tonight and we’re still able to put out performances like that. Everyone makes an impact, everyone makes a difference. We have a strong group and we’re in for the long run here. We want trophies, so this is the first step."

With Josef Martinez sidelined after knee surgery, Dwyer's role up-front becomes even more important for Atlanta United. The 31-year-old's two goals on the night were very different but equally impressive; one an instinctive header at the near post, the other a powerful strike from outside the box.

Head coach Pineda was pleased with Dwyer's performance on the night and is confident he can be a source of goals in MLS play.

“I felt that Dom Dwyer did great. He’s an experienced No. 9 in this league and we know he is able and capable of scoring goals," said Pineda. "It was good to see that performance, especially his second goal was fantastic. The first one, a very good header at near post. The second one, I thought that he saw the play coming and he was looking for that finish.

"I’m happy for him and his confidence, and then he added an assist so I’m very pleased with his performance."

Atlanta United return to MLS action away at Inter Miami on Sunday.