RSL vs. Seattle Sounders, Player of the Match: Corey Baird

I don’t know what to say about this kid. I do know that he’s committed to donate at least $8 for Playing For Pride after getting both a start and his fourth goal in eight starts. Running from behind, winning corners, the weird leg flick thing in midair that almost earned a goal, a jump in the air hoping the ball lands in the back of the net, the former Stanford Cardinal did it all.

Other Contenders

Danilo Acosta - I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is. It’s a mix of defense, transition, confidence and something I can’t put my name on. But after going on an absolutely horrible run, since Acosta has been out of Mike Petke’s doghouse RSL has conceded one goal and picked up nine points in the last three games.

Damir Kreilach - The Croatian could have had a better first touch on receiving one cross and also biffed an excellent opportunity after nutmegging a defender. Outside of that the 29 year old continues to look incredibly difference. If Rusnak leaves the club in the near future, he’s replacement may already be here as illustrated with performances in the last two games.

Stephen Sunday - Where has this Sunny been? He disappeared for an entire year and then bam! He returns. Someone explain this to me.

Joao Plata - Had a fantastic game and beat multiple defenders one on one until an untimely injury late in the first half where he bruised some of his ribs and he was forced to come off.

Luis Silva - He didn’t do much outside the insurance goal, but wow. What a goal that was.