Ron Chenoy – USA TODAY Sports
USL-PDL side Reading United AC is known for developing soccer players who go on and have successful MLS careers. Last year was nothing new as the Colorado Rapids selected former Reading player Deshorn Brown sixth overall in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft. Brown has been a force to reckon with, and his play should put him among the 2013 MLS Rookie of the Year candidates.
I understand the season is only about halfway over, but it is never to early to start discussing who could win end-of-year awards. The season’s second half could propel other players into the discussion and knock out others, but for now, Brown’s play has put him in contention to win the MLS Rookie of the Year award.
Injuries have plagued the Rapids at times this season, and Brown was out for a short time, but when on the pitch, Brown has consistently frazzled defense after defense. Brown is a strong forward who can power by defenders and threaten to score.
Furthermore, in 18 games played and 14 starts, Brown leads Colorado with five goals and has a team second-best four assists behind only Christopher Klute. In 1,297 minutes played, Brown has registered 63 goals with 19 on-goal.
Fellow Colorado rookie Dillion Powers has also played well in the midfield, and he should be amidst the top rookie discussion, but Brown has been better not just on the stat sheet but on the field. Brown’s athleticism and strength upfront has kept opponents in check this year and has forced them to focus extra attention towards Brown.
The 2013 MLS Season is almost at the halfway mark, and Brown’s play has made a solid case for MLS Rookie of the Year. If Brown’s second-half performance is as good as his first-half, do not be surprised if Brown is named 2013 MLS Rookie of the Year.
Phil Naegely is a sports writer for www.RantSports.com. Like him on Facebook, follow him on Twitter @pnaegelyRS and add him to your circles on Google.
