Kellyn Acosta lived up to the hype
It was a busy week for the new #10 in burgundy (or gold). The former FC Dallas man arrived early Monday morning for a full day of media and handshakes around DICK’S Sporting Goods Park. On Tuesday, Acosta celebrated his 23rd birthday and played 45 minutes against Boca Juniors. To cap off the week? He put in a man-of-the-match worthy performance (and scored a world-class goal) on the road against D.C. United. It says a lot of Acosta that he did all of this while trying to settle in with new teammates, in a new city.
As for Saturday against D.C. United - it was an up-and-down affair in Acosta’s first MLS match with the Rapids. He stepped up and took the penalty drawn by Edgar Castillo in the 26th minute. That he wanted – and was given – the ball in that moment speaks volumes to how Kellyn is viewed by his new coaches and teammates. Fans will be quick to note that he missed from the spot, but to me, his response for the remainder of the match is more important and evident of Kellyn’s makeup. Chasing a goal for the next hour, he was the one making defensive runs to break up the D.C.’s attack in his own third and often seconds later leading the attack in the other direction. From the start he was deployed in midfield on right side of the 4-4-2 diamond and I’d be willing to bet he covered more ground than any other player over the course of 90 minutes.
There aren’t many players in MLS who can impact a match in a variety of ways. Kellyn is a rare talent who can.
And of course, the goal. Let’s talk about that goal. So calm, so silky, such high degree of difficulty. The chance was created off a turnover and a beautiful cross from Jack McBean. But it was the finish that made it the best Rapids goal scored this season. Many players will try to aim that chance low at the far post or try to beat the keeper to the near post. It often ends up out for a corner or goal kick. Not Kellyn. Cool as you like with the chip up and over the defender. Unreal.
A striker needs to take the role and run with it
Against D.C. United, it was a combination of Giles Barnes, Sam Nicholson, Jack McBean and Niki Jackson. Along with a healthy Shkëlzen Gashi and Yannick Boli, that makes six names that will get a chance to lead the line for the Rapids in the final 13 matches.
From rookie to veteran, we’ve seen potential from all six names on that list. Pairing the pace and work rate of Nicholson with the technical ability and creativity of Giles Barnes? It didn’t come off on Saturday, but the idea is there. The physical hold-up play of Jack McBean paired with Yannick Boli’s growing confidence? I’m here for it. What the pool lacks in a clear number one or two options, it makes up for in depth. With the increase in talent in the midfield (see above) more chances will be created for this group. For the Rapids to rack up goals and points in the remaining games, one or two of those names will need to show up in lights, and show up often.
