RSL vs. Rapids, Man of the Match: Nick Besler

A lot of fans before this game were a little skeptical about the backline going into this match, and rightly so. While the expectations weren’t exactly high for 24 year old Nick Besler, the expectations for his next go certainly will be. Living in the shadow of his older brother and USMNT mainstay Matt Besler it’s great to see a guy work his way into the first team, get a start, and have the type of performance he just had.

Being the seventh RSL player to debut this year alone, the former captain of the Real Monarchs didn’t seem to miss a step. From making a fantastic, although risky tackle from behind in the 6th minute, to a smart foul stopping a breakaway goal in the 75th with several key clearances in between.

For a midfielder playing out of position as a centerback, he had about as good a debut as one could hope for.

Other Contenders

VAR - You had one job. AND YOU DID IT!

Damir Kreilach - I think it’s fair to say that Dami has drastically underperformed so far this season. He wasn’t exactly phenomenal this game either, but he opened his account sealing three points on a beautiful bend just before stoppage time.

Brooks Lennon - Brooks’s form had declined a bit since his first appearance as a right back. In this outting he seemed to be a bit more comfortable on the ball and finding the right balance between attacking and defending. He moved the ball around well and created a great chance on target for himself in the 68th minute.

Tim Howard - Thanks dude.

Albert Rusnak - That goal, nuff said.