FORT WORTH - Tuesday’s Lamar Hunt US Open Cup win over Oklahoma City will be quickly forgotten for most of the FC Dallas players as they move on in both MLS and the annual tournament, but one player will never forget the 4-1 win.
2015 MLS Draft pick Otis Earle was called upon by Oscar Pareja for the first time in Tuesday’s match making his professional debut in 35 minutes of action against Energy FC.
“The main result was getting the win, but it was great to get out there and do well for the team,” said Earle after the match. “It was a really proud moment for me, but the main thing was getting through this stage. It was a tricky game not being used to this field and a difficult match but the main thing was getting a win.”
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It’s never easy being the rookie in a season following a Rookie of the Year performance and while Earle hasn’t made the splash that Tesho Akindele did in 2014, he’s quietly going about his business learning the in’s and out’s of what it takes to be a professional.
“I spoke to Oscar last week and I’ve been learning,” said Earle. “It’s a completely different game tactically and the guys are all really supportive. It’s just about learning and trying to get better.”
For the 23-year-old, it’s all about being ready when called upon, though Tuesday’s match will certainly be special for the rest of the Englishman’s life.
“It’s great and a great moment,” said Pareja. “It’s unforgettable and something that will stick there forever. Despite being an Open Cup game, for him it was a big part of the team and getting the result.”
“I got a little clap from the boys [in the locker room],” said Earle. “And then the match ball which the guys will sign and I can hopefully send home to my mom.”
