In the final two matches of the season, Orlando City Head Coach Jason Kreis decided to start striker Carlos Rivas. Rivas hasn’t gotten much playing time this season, earning just eight starts this year. But when given the opportunity, Rivas made an impact.
In the match against the Philadelphia Union, Rivas scored the first goal to give the team a 1-0 lead at the start of the second half. Against D.C. United, he was unable to score, but he created plenty of chances for both himself and his teammates.
“Carlos, for us, has had a really good mentality since we’ve gotten here,” Kreis said after the match against D.C. United. “He seems like a happy kid that is willing to work hard in the training sessions, is willing to try to do whatever we ask of him. And I think, the truth be told, he probably has deserved a few more minutes and a few more opportunities than he’s gotten. So, I was really pleased to be able to give him these last two matches and I think he’s taken his chance quite well. Couldn’t be more pleased for him.”
Kreis has agreed that these final two matches served as opportunities for players to prove that they want to be on next year’s squad. Rivas has shown his skill and shown that he wants to be with Orlando City.
“I saw that in the last game Carlos [Rivas] played. He played very, very well,” Kaká said. “He showed us that he wants to stay here.”
Moving forward, it is important that Orlando City create a winning mentality and have players willing to take risks to get results. Rivas has proven that he is that kind of player, and that he can be a crucial element of this Orlando City attack moving forward.
After the match against D.C. United, Kaká summarized his thoughts nicely. “He’s an important player that can help us next year.”
