The Columbus Crew is hoping that last Saturday's comeback win in Philadelphia can serve as a springboard for team success down the stretch, but it could also have a side-effect conducive to that goal. Forward Jairo Arrieta was instrumental in the club record three goals in four minutes, notching an assist on the game-tying tally and, of course, the game-winning strike.
His strong performance as a second-half substitute didn't escape the eye of his Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter.
"[Arrieta] is a guy that we know can score in this League," said Berhalter. "He's done it before, so that's comforting. He's a handful to play against: he's physical, he's quick, he's quick on the turn. It's only positive that we have him returning to full form."
For the Costa Rican, Saturday's performance marked his first goal or assist in MLS regular-season play since May 24 versus Chicago. It's been a trying few months for the striker, first recovering from a hamstring injury and then fighting to regain playing time. That's why the game-winning goal in Philadelphia was so emotional for Arrieta, a reaction that was evident in his celebration.
"I had tons of thoughts going through my head, especially my family being one of them, being so supportive," said Arrieta through a translator. "When you go through an injury, and you as a soccer player try to gain that starting role, it's very difficult. You go through tough times. That goal gives you tons of confidence as well and you're so thankful. There are other aspects other than my family, but praising God as well for giving me this opportunity. I feel blessed."
It was a just reward for a player who, by his own admissions, has been doing nothing but working hard in attempts to contribute however he can.
"For me, it's important to keep working hard, first of all," said Arrieta. "In training, I feel fine; the form is getting there. I feel like I'm in good form. It's just doing what I have to do: keep on getting better at certain aspects of the game. Hopefully [Berhalter] sees that I'm working hard. It's his decision.
"I'm ready, I'm here for the team and I want to continue doing well."
If Arrieta's form is indeed on point, his skillset as a complement to Aaron Schoenfeld or Adam Bedell is something that no other player on the Crew's active roster can emulate. Whether in a starting role or coming off of the bench, Arrieta knows he could be an enormous weapon for the Black & Gold down the stretch and into the MLS Cup Playoffs, should Columbus qualify.
"I would love to be that 'X factor,'" said Arrieta. "However, as a soccer player, you always strive to play as part of the starting 11. [Last] weekend, I got put in and we were blessed to score a goal. We got the win. As a soccer player, you always want to achieve the most you can and hopefully for me, that's to be part of the starting 11."
