Photo by Noah K. Murray/USA TODAY Sports
By SBI SOCCER
Cyle Larin is now Major League Soccer’s most prolific rookie scorer, and the Orlando City forward secured the honor in the grandest of styles.
The Canadian international scored a hat trick Friday night, leading Orlando City to a 5-2 victory over the New York Red Bulls to secure recognition as SBI’s MLS Rookie of the Week.
Having been held scoreless for seven straight games, Larin broke his duck emphatically on Friday night, beginning with the record-breaking finish in the 24th minute from a Kaka assist.
The Orlando City star’s second came shortly before halftime, as Larin bested goalkeeper Luis Robles with a pinpoint shot from a counter attack. The third brought more of the same, as Larin once again found space in behind the Red Bulls attack to help further his case as one of the league’s top all-time rookies.
Larin’s hat trick, the second of the Canadian’s rookie campaign, earned the forward SBI MLS Rookie of the Week honors over Fatai Alashe, Matt Polster and Connor Hallisey.
What did you think of Larin’s performance? Which rookie stood out to you this past weekend?
Share your thoughts below.
Broke his duck. I can’t be the only one who did a double-take…
That’s a common phrase in British sportswriting when someone breaks out of a slump. Not used that often here though.