When Sebastian Giovinco’s has the ball at his feet, everyone notices. Fans move closer to the field. Defenders become hyper-alert. Opposing coaches hold their breath. And when the stakes were the highest, Giovinco still delivers.
The diminutive Italian once again topped the Audi Player Index standings after MLS Cup for Toronto FC, a testament to the threat he posed to Seattle’s defense. The forward, who also claimed the regular season Audi Player Index Award over New York City FC’s David Villa, notched 1297 points to outpace goal-scoring teammates Jozy Altidore (845 points) and Victor Vazquez (801).
Giovinco managed to compile his gaudy total due to his persistence the offense third. On four occasions, he earned a corner kick for his side (120 points). On three other occasions, he took an opponent on and succeeded (another 75 points). And while he didn’t score on Saturday, he did provide an assist (206.5 points) and pressured Stefan Frei’s net with four shots on goal (good for a combined 531.25 points).
In a losing effort, Seattle goalkeeper Frei led his side with an extraordinary 865 points on nine saves, a testament to his fine play against Toronto’s relentless attack.
Giovinco’s maestro performance in the MLS Cup final capped an excellent season for Toronto’s ace. Despite being limited to 25 games due to injury, Giovinco notched 16 goals and six assists in MLS regular season play. He also finished second in the league in shots, a prime indicator of Audi Player Index success.
Seba’s regular season API average of 642 points beat out Villa to capture the Audi Player Index Award. On Saturday he doubled that average, showing that the Italian wizard brought his best in the season’s final game.
