REAPING THE REWARDS | Top Offseason Signings In 2015

The 2014-2015 offseason was a busy one as top international and domestic players signed with NASL clubs to create the league’s deepest and most talented player pool yet. With the season at its midway point, certain newcomers have stood out more than others. Here are the league’s top offseason signings:

Lucky Mkosana (New York Cosmos) – Mkosana was used mostly in a substitute role during his time with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, but in New York, the Zimbabwe native has left Cosmos head coach Giovanni Savarese with no choice but to start him. The speedy forward is currently second on the team in league goals with three, but more importantly he has formed a strong partnership with Spanish great Raúl. Mkosana, who continues to be a tireless worker, has also scored some notable goals, finding the back of the net against both New York City FC and the New York Red Bulls in U.S. Open Cup play, as well as twice in the club’s friendly against the Cuban national team.  

Colin Falvey/Rafael Alves (Ottawa Fury FC) – It’s hard to pick just one of the new Ottawa defenders, as they have formed such a strong partnership in the center of defense for Fury FC. Solidifying the back line, the duo helped set an NASL record for most consecutive minutes played without giving up a goal (648). The club, which is currently riding a 10-game unbeaten streak, sits in first place in both the Fall Season and Combined Standings. Falvey and Alves have started every game for Fury FC so far this year.

Omar Cummings (San Antonio Scorpions) – Currently the league leader in goals, Cummings has found the back of the net eight times in 14 matches. Along with his showing his ability to score, he has formed a dynamic partnership with Billy Forbes. The veteran Jamaican is showcasing his best form since tallying 14 goals during the Colorado Rapids’ title-winning season in 2010.

Stefano Pinho (Fort Lauderdale Strikers) – It took the young Brazilian some time to settle in, but he has been at his best for Fort Lauderdale in recent weeks. Pinho, who scored 11 goals during a loan spell with MyPa in Finland, is having a similar impact with the Strikers. At one point, he put together a run that included scoring five goals in four games. He continues to be a dangerous attacking threat against any team that he faces.

Pascal Millien (Jacksonville Armada FC) – After returning to the NASL following several years abroad, the Haitian international leads the expansion side with four goals, including a brace in a wild 3-3 draw with the New York Cosmos. The forward is always a willing runner and his craftiness with the ball at his feet in one-on-one situations is fun to watch. Millien’s importance to the team may have been proven further while he was away at the Gold Cup with Haiti, as Jacksonville has had trouble scoring in the Fall Season.

Simon Mensing (Atlanta Silverbacks) – Mensing’s compatriot, Paul Black, warrants similar recognition, but the German-born Englishman has been the vocal leader of the Silverbacks’ back line. The rugged defender is strong in the air and serves as the primary organizer of the defense. His role is even more important now that Atlanta has opted to play a 3-5-2, with Mensing at the center of the three defenders.