Photo by Dan Hamilton/USA Today Sports
By RYAN TOLMICH
Very few performances in MLS history can rival the one that Sebastian Giovinco put forth on Sunday afternoon.
The TFC forward scored a nine-minute hat-trick, the third-fastest in league history, before providing an assist late in the second half of Toronto FC’s 4-4 draw with New York City FC. Giovinco’s performance dazzled MLS fans everywhere, and also eared him recognition as the SBI MLS Player of the Week.
After missing an early penalty kick, Giovinco went on the attack to close out the first half, leading his side back from a 2-0 deficit. The Italian intially atoned by converting his second penalty kick of the day before darting past the NYCFC defense to score another.
Just three minutes later, Giovinco cashed in again for his third in less than 10 minutes. Then, late in the game, Giovinco turned provider, setting up Marky Delgado for TFC’s fourth and final goal of the day.
Giovinco’s performance, one of the best in MLS in recent memory, earned him this week’s SBI Player of the Week honors over Bradley Wright-Phillips, Kevin Ellis, Cristian Maidana, and Dominic Oduro.
What did you think of Giovinco’s performance? Where would you rank it among the best in MLS? Which player impressed you most this past weekend?
Share your thoughts below.
How is he in MLS?
Like who secured this deal. Does he still play for the Italian NT?
Forzaaaa Juveee !
Leiweke is a genius…..
Just hand him the MVP already.
This guy has been awesome. One of the best DP signings in MLS history. (age +talent)
He makes MLS defenders look like they are in slow motion.
So strong on the ball and variations of speed really throws defenders off.
He could have easily had 4 or 5 goals. Missed PK and and unlucky post.
I hope Toronto keeps him happy and he gets called in by Italy.
Between watching him and Keene over the weekend, wow.
He should send a basket of flowers to Kwame Watson-Siriboe. Not really “MLS quality” defending there – WS was responsible for all 3 of Giovinco’s goals before Kreis mercifully pulled him at the half.
Taylor Twellman asked fans recently if you’d rather have an MLS with 20 Najars or 20 Lampard/Gerrards. I’d rather have 20 Giovincos. I’d settle for 10 David Villas and 10 Kakas.