SPORTS

Rivera scores first MLS goal

Posted 5/10/22

By ALEX SPONSELLER

Cranston native Damian Rivera had himself quite the Major League Soccer debut recently, scoring his first goal, on his first shot, during his first start. The goal also came in …

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SPORTS

Rivera scores first MLS goal

Posted

By ALEX SPONSELLER

Cranston native Damian Rivera had himself quite the Major League Soccer debut recently, scoring his first goal, on his first shot, during his first start. The goal also came in the first minute of action against DC United.

The 19-year-old standout grew up in Cranston and was a longtime member of the Revolution Academy, which develops local players from the youth level. He was then signed to the Revolution II team in 2019 and would finally work his way into the big league lineup this year.

“Coming into the game, I think that I was prepared, a little nervous. The chance came quick in the first minute and I took a touch, shot it and it went in. I was very excited, celebrated with my teammates and was happy to score that quick,” said Rivera.

Rivera was excited to make an impact and to see his hard work rising up the ranks pay off.

“From the start I have been working hard. I have been waiting for a chance on the field and I finally got that in the DC game. I got the start and (made the most) of the opportunity and hope to take that with me moving forward,” said Rivera, who also feels that his improvements in his strength and conditioning have helped him blossom as a player since signing in 2019. “The biggest thing for me was defensively and transition. That comes with being fit. My reaction in transition when we lose the ball or win the ball.”

As a lifelong New Englander and avid Revolution fan, Rivera was thrilled to live his dream and to play for his hometown team.

“Even in the game, that first goal gave me confidence and I think that I will use that momentum into the next game and go from there. It’s great, the Revolution was my hometown club, I used to go to the games when I was little and to be playing for them is a dream come true,” Rivera said.

Rivera, soccer

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