90min
·15 July 2022
90min
·15 July 2022
It hasn't taken long for Cucho Hernandez to adjust to life in Major League Soccer.
In fact, in just 73 minutes of action spanning two substitute appearances, the Colombia international has scored three goals, with the Columbus Crew's record transfer helping his new team to four points during that time.
Armenia international Lucas Zelarayan provided the assists for Hernandez's brace in a midweek 2-2 draw with DC United. The duo are already showing the potential to become one of the most potent attacking partnerships in Major League Soccer, with Hernandez providing the finishing touch to Zelarayan's creative wizardry.
It's not gone unnoticed by Crew head coach Caleb Porter.
“The impact of Cucho and Lucas for two goals, that’s a real positive,” Porter said after Wednesday's draw. “Obviously we’re trying to build chemistry and trying to build fitness with Cucho. And I thought those two guys were excellent coming in the second half. Those two guys deserve a lot of credit for scoring those goals.”
He added: “Chemistry is starting to build with those two. Cucho has scored three goals in different ways. It’s great to see, but I’m looking at the team, I’m looking at performance, looking at other individuals as well and we’ve got to learn from this game. There’s a lot to look at. Got to put it behind us, and we have a massive game on Sunday.”
Despite his remarkable second-half cameo alongside Zelarayan, Hernandez was left frustrated at the fact Columbus conceded a 92nd-minute goal to throw away their lead for the second time on the night.
The point leaves the Crew right on the cusp of the MLS Cup Playoff spots, but Hernandez is here to win.
“I’m irritated. It wasn’t the result we wanted and I thought we deserved to win. But one point is OK and we’ll need to think about the next game now," he said, adding: “I’m working very hard and very seriously. … I’m doing my job, but I want to score and win games, so hopefully, it will be in the next one.”
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