Photo Credit: University of Washington Athletic Communications
On Saturday, Real Salt Lake midfielder Raphael Cox, starting for the first time this season, played 67 minutes against Chivas USA at the Home Depot Center.
Cox made his way into the lineup mainly due to RSL's decision to switch up formations. The team came out onto the pitch in a 4-5-1, a first for this season, playing Yura Movsisyan as a lone striker in front of five midfielders, one being Cox who has the pace and athletic ability to play out wide.
Cox made several decisive runs at the Chivas defense from his left-wing position. He nearly tallied an assist when he sent a pass into Yura Movsisyan on the edge of the six-yard box in the first half.
After the game, Cox reflected on his first professional appearance with on-site media.
"It was nice to get my first start," said Cox. "It took me a little while to get adjusted to the game, but I think once I did, I did a decent job."Head coach Jason Kries was content with Cox's performace and noted that the midfielder could get future starting eleven considerations.
"We don't have a lot of guys that want to play wide and want to run at players," said Kreis. "But we played a little different tactically tonight, and for that tactical change, he was the perfect fit. He definitely played well enough to show us that he should be considered in the future."
1 comment:
I kind of think Cox had a little trouble with the speed of the game at first, with how quickly Chivas's midfield closed down on every ball, but he showed a ton of talent and ability. His first touch was quite sharp, and his work-rate was fantastic. Given more playing time with his teammates I think he will develop into a fantastic player.
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