Photo by Kyle Terada/USA TODAY Sports

By SBI SOCCER

Facing off against a playoff contender, a rookie was the one to give the San Jose Earthquakes an answer.

Despite lining up next to Clarence Goodson on the Earthquakes’ back line, Fatai Alashe scored his second career MLS goal Saturday against the Seattle Sounders. His goal and defensive performance earned him recognition as SBI MLS Rookie of the Week.

Alashe put the home side ahead in the 70th minute of play after making a run to the near post. He headed in a Matias Perez Garcia free kick from the right wing for the team’s only goal of the evening. Aside from the goal, though, Alashe also performed well in defense, notably forcing Obafemi Martins to mishit after a run into the box in the 26th minute.

The Earthquakes would eventually settle for a 1-1 tie with the Sounders, but Alashe’s all-around performance was enough to beat out Vancouver Whitecaps defender Tim Parker for this week’s honors as SBI MLS Rookie of the Week.

Which rookie stood out to you in Week 28? What do you think about Alashe’s goal and performance against the Sounders?

Share your thoughts below.