Ben Olsen and D.C. United continue to reap the rewards for acquiring former University of Maryland standout Patrick Mullins during the MLS transfer period. The six-foot-one forward hit the ground running in the Nation’s capital and has been a key component in a resurgent Black-and-Red offense that has scored 19 goals since Mullins’ arrival on July 20 (compared to United’s 18 goals in the previous 19 games).
The New Orleans native has slotted right into Olsen’s dynamic 4-1-4-1 formation and provided the Black-and-Red offense with the power and strength necessary for thriving in the increasingly popular formation. His understanding of the game and work rate on either side of the ball has helped the team going forward and assisted the team with maintaining its defensive structure and shape.
“He works hard, he’s got a bit of an edge to him, he’s not afraid [to make defenders'] night tough,” Bobby Boswell, D.C. United captain and MLS veteran. “I think he’s hard to game-plan against, because you’re not really sure what he’s going to do. He’s good in the air, but he’s not bad with his feet either, so he’s been doing well with us and hopefully it continues.”
The attacking efforts of Mullins came to fruition in the 6-2 trouncing of Chicago on August 27 when the forward completed his first career hat trick in MLS. Mullins’ composure in front of goal and innate ability to be in the right position at the right time has contributed to his impressive record of five goals and one assist in his first seven starts for the club.
While Olsen and fans will be impressed with his goal scoring form, it’s Mullins’ development of a relationship with midfield maestro Luciano Acosta that continues to stir growing excitement.
“It’s simple with him. He’s got so much talent that if you move, he’ll find you. I think you saw that in the second goal,” said Mullins in regards to Acosta after the 6-2 win against Chicago. “He’s going to find you whether it’s a flick or just a ball like the one tonight.”
The on-the-field relationships will only improve as Mullins continues to cultivate chemistry with Luciano Acosta, Lloyd Sam, Patrick Nyarko and other players. Mullins, who is on the verge of making his tenth appearance for the club, has fans looking forward to the prolonged impact the 24-year-old will have on the Black-and-Red offense for years to come.
