No doubt about it, 2011 was an exciting year for fans of Major League Soccer. Beginning with the new expansion teams–the Portland Timbers and Vancouver Whitecaps–and ending with the Los Angeles Galaxy winning the MLS Cup, it was a great year.
There were more than a few fantastic goals scored. Here’s my take on the top five:
5 – Graham Zusi, accurate at range
Some fans disparage the long range shot in favor of artful work closer to the box, but that thinking leaves out some very fine work involved in kicks from distance. Zusi’s score is one of those. Taken off a free kick from just a few yards short of the half, he gives it just the right uplift to get over the ‘keeper and to the back of the net. See the video here.
4 – Javier Martina on the quick strike
Toronto’s Martina one-hopped a ball sent deep by his goalkeeper, barely having to pause his stride. He began his run to the ball timed perfectly, and shocked the Timbers with a nearly instant goal. Look at the strike here.
3 – Carlos Ruiz rocket
This one is another goal combining finesse with distance. Ruiz started the play off his own free kick, but it was cleared out. Not sufficiently enough as it turned out, as Ruiz was able to trap it down with a light touch with his right foot and fire the ball to the back of the net with his left. Watch the shot here.
2 – Eric Hassli wows ‘em
More than a few fans called this one the best of the season, and it’s definitely in contention. Hassli put such a fine touch on the ball that the artistry is beautiful to watch. Sure, he benefited from a bad clearance, but most players would just be happy with collecting possession and trying to set something up. Hassli used the opportunity to score, netting the Vancouver Whitecaps a goal. See the great goal here.
1 – Darlington Nagbe shows incredible touch
Portland’s rookie midfielder took the ball after Sporting Kansas City’s goalkeeper cleared it out. Never letting it hit the pitch, Nagbe collected it, bounced the ball up to set up his shot, then fired it to the back of the net. It was beautiful, and I don’t just say that because I’m a Timbers fan. View the masterpiece here.
Jeff Musall became a fan of the Portland Timbers after moving to the area in 2001.