Photo by USA Today Sports
By RYAN TOLMICH
Marking perennial MLS All-Star Graham Zusi for 90 minutes is a task sure to challenge even the most experienced of full backs, let alone one with just months into his professional career.
However, Chris Duvall did just that, as the rookie defender proved to be a key defensive piece as the New York Red Bulls picked up an important 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City on Saturday at Red Bull Arena.
Duvall’s performance was far from flashy, but the 22-year-old full back did exactly what was asked of him. With the always-menacing attack of the reigning MLS Cup champions staring him down, Duvall stood firm as Sporting KC sent wave after wave attack in an effort to force a rookie mistake.
The mistake never came, as Duvall responded time and time again, helping to earn his side three points. Duvall’s hard work was enough to earn the Red Bulls defender recognition as SBI MLS Rookie of the Week, beating out the San Jose Earthquakes forward Tommy Thompson for this week’s honors.
————-
What did you think of Duvall’s performance? Which rookie stood out to you in MLS Week 26?
Share your thoughts below.
Duvall has been a nice surprise this year. Given that he’s a rookie and Roy Miller is probably still known by most league observers as the guy who costs the Red Bulls games, it’s funny to think that our centerbacks have been more of a problem area despite the pedigree of some of those players than the outside backs.
True, even Olave has slipped a bit from last year and the guys partnering him – Sekgaya, Miazga and Armando – have been consistently terrible, although I can overlook Miazga’s difficulties as growing pains for a guy playing his first few first-team games.
On the other hand, the emergence of Oyongo and Duvall has been a positive sign in a disappointing season. Hopefully, these guys continue to develop and are starters for us for years to come.
While I know Miller has pulled some boners he actually a pretty good LB in terms of MLS standards
Zusi was getting the better of him early, but Duvall hung in there and played well.
SKC was clearly targeting Duvall, and while he was not perfect, and got some help, Duvall was up to the task. No big mistakes and few real SKC opportunities from his side.