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SBI MLS Rookie of the Week: Pedro Ribeiro

Pedro Ribeiro (USA Today Sports)

 Photo by John Gellebter/USA TODAY Sports Images

 

By RYAN TOLMICH

With less than one-and-a-half games under his belt and his team in the thick of a potential make-or-break clash with the New York Red Bulls, Philadelphia Union rookie Pedro Ribeiro played hero.

Entering the weekend trailing the Red Bulls by one point in the standings, Ribeiro scored and drew a penalty, as the Union earned a late draw to keep playoff qualification within striking distance.

With the Union resting some of the team’s regulars due to the upcoming U.S. Open Cup final, Ribeiro provided the spark, starting with a goal in the 41st minute that came just moments after the Red Bulls opened up a 2-0 lead. Then, as time ticked away, Ribeiro played his part yet again, earning a penalty kick that was converted by Sebastian Le Toux to grab the Union a crucial point.

Ribeiro was the catalyst behind the Union comeback, which was enough to earn the 24-year-old rookie recognition as SBI MLS Rookie of the Week. Ribeiro beat out Tesho Akindele and Chris Duvall for this week’s honors.

What did you think of Ribeiro’s performance? Which rookie stood out to you in MLS Week 27?

Share your thoughts below.

Comments

  1. Tesho worked really hard but didn’t get any of the stats needed to top this list…too bad there’s no stat for effort (other than the “distance covered” stat).

    Reply

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