Recently on Ted Lasso, AFC Richmond receive a jump-start to their season riding a winning streak. They score an impressive victory in the FA Cup and advancing to the semis of the tournament. Unfortunately, the coach isn’t there to lead his team due to an upset stomach and Nate steps up. Ted’s digestive problems are a front and the real reason he left is because of a stress induced panic attack. At least this is the straw that broke the camel’s back and he seeks therapy from the team sports psychologist.
The season has been building to this point every since Dr. Fieldstone came in following Dani Rojas’ unfortunate accident. The two weren’t the friendliest initially but were cordial at least. As time progressed, there was even a softening to a degree but these sessions are pretty ugly. We witness a side of Ted Lasso that is unflattering and cynical. It’s understandable considering his experience with therapy but it’s too much to be combative, hostile, and condescending toward someone who genuinely wants to help.
For her part, Sarah Niles is fantastic in her role. She instills her character with the patience and strength to manage such an uncooperative patient. The good doctor is encouraging when needed, like when she brings up his no quit attitude, but isn’t afraid to stick up for herself and call Ted out on his B.S. It’s never in a contemptuous way but firm and honest to get her point across. So many facts are spoken including self-care can be scary and the truth will set you free and then piss you off. It’s a mental game off the pitch and Sarah is finding ways to penetrate Lasso’s packed in bunker defense.
Too bad Ted Lasso is away because someone needs to keep the new “wonder kid” in check. Someone is smelling himself too much and is enamored with his social media praise. It’s disappointing to see the normally affable Nate act this way. He is perpetuating the toxic cycle he was on the wrong side of and taking it out on players and the team. Right when you think he’s learned his lesson, the combination of his thin skin and a troll spells bad news for his replacement. Hopefully, he realizes what he’s doing and can become the bigger man.
At least there are other plots not as depressing. Keeley is feeling a little smothered now that she works with her Beau. There’s no escaping him and she needs some alone time. She could have managed the situation better and she eventually blows up but the whole ordeal further solidifies their relationship and Roy’s status as a dreamboat.
He understands he’s not perfect and knows that his partner has gripes despite Higgins’ scat singing to hide conversations. The former AFC captain isn’t insecure and can admit when he’s wrong, even when the advice comes from an unlikely source. Plus, anyone who plays Sade will always be aces in my book.
However, Keeley and Roy might have some competition for top Ted Lasso couple. Ever since “Make Rebecca Great Again,” there was a spark between Sam and the boss. From the way he looked at her to their few interactions afterwards, you could see maybe something developing. Their DM flirtations have them giddy and confused like high school crushes and there’s a great scene between them in the hallway. The irony adds to the will they/won’t they and I’m eager to see where things go if they find out about each other.
“Headspace” features excellent and serious interplay between Jason Sudeikis and Sara Niles as Ted Lasso manages his mental health. Meanwhile, Nate disappoints but at least romance is going strong amongst the couples.
New episodes of Ted Lasso drop Fridays on Apple TV+.
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