San Antonio Scorpions Midfielder Rafael Castillo Named NASL Player of the Week
September 8, 2014 - North American Soccer League (NASL) News Release
NEW YORK (September 8, 2014) - San Antonio Scorpions midfielder Rafael Castillo has been named North American Soccer League (NASL) Player of the Week after scoring a goal and tallying an assist in his team's 3-0 win over FC Edmonton on Saturday night. The Colombian veteran's performance helped the Scorpions extend their home unbeaten streak to eight games and regain the top spot in both the Fall and Combined Standings.
"It's significant when you get honored as Player of the Week because it shows that you're doing your job," Castillo said. "This is the result of a hard week of work, and of course I'm honored to be recognized. But I couldn't have done it without the assistance of my teammates and my coaching staff. At the end of the day, it's not just me who wins - it's the team too."
Castillo scored his fourth goal of the season in the 37th minute on Saturday night at Toyota Field, receiving a pass from midfielder Cesar Elizondo and unleashing a left-footed shot that went off the inside of the left post and into the net to give the Scorpions a 1-0 advantage.
Up 2-0 going into the final minute, the Scorpions added to their lead when Castillo found forward Trevin Caesar for a well-crafted goal. Castillo gathered his second assist of the season on the play.
"Castillo has been a revelation for us this Fall Season as a commanding presence in the midfield. His ability to dictate the tempo of games is fantastic and he has become one of the leaders on the field that our guys look to," said Scorpions Head Coach Alen Marcina. "After another standout performance, it's incredibly deserving and fitting for him to receive this accolade, and it's a testament to his work ethic and contribution to our success this year."
Prior to coming to the Scorpions, Castillo spent much of his career in his native country of Colombia. He has played for several different Colombian teams, including Deportivo Tolima, Real Cartagena and Millionarios. He also played for the most popular team in Egypt, Al-Ahly. Castillo was a part of the 2004 championship team at Independiente Medellin, and has also represented Colombia at the international level from 2002-03.
North American Soccer League Stories from September 8, 2014
- San Antonio Scorpions Midfielder Rafael Castillo Named NASL Player of the Week - NASL
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