Filling In Nicely

Samuel drafted in the 4th round.

It's that time of year again. Draft week in the BSL and the league's flagship is feeling pretty good about its early picks. Let's start with Maurice Edu who is on a one-year loan from Stoke City of the English Premier League. The deal includes an option to buy. As a US International with experience playing against some of the best competition in the world, Maurice adds a wealth of knowledge, skill and leadership while still being in his prime. 

Obtaining a 2nd round pick from Gateway United, the opportunity presented itself to sign Luke Moore, who spent his youth and development at Premier League side Aston Villa. He also played with West Bromwich Albion and Swansea City before continuing his playing career in Turkey. 

Also in Round 2 Union SC selected Marco Pappa, a five-year veteran of MLS, who will likely take over the playmaker role that Rosales made his own in three years in Seattle. 

In Round 3 Union SC selected Darren Mattocks who hasn’t touted a 20-goal target for this season, so in that sense, he’s already having a better training camp. With Camilo gone in Vancouver, someone will need to step it up and that could be Mattocks. 

Finally, There are expectations aplenty being placed on the shoulders of new LA Galaxy forward Samuel, but that means zilch to the team’s newest Brazilian. His only focus is scoring goals and lots of them for the Galaxy. The Galaxy acquired the 22-year-old native of São Borja, Brazil early last month on a year-long loan from Brazilian giants Fluminense despite interest domestically and in Europe During his two years with the Fluzão, the center forward scored 15 goals in 72 outings—a tally that he hopes to add to during his time with the Galaxy.