In a match that was long on storylines and standout performers, Razvan Cocis managed to leave a stamp on the Chicago Fire’s MLS opener Sunday afternoon.
Now in his third season with the Men In Red, the 33-year-old Romanian midfield has been a guiding influence since the start of preseason with a host of newcomers and young professionals surrounding him. His role in the team was affirmed prior to the tilt with New York City FC when head coach Veljko Paunovic handed him the captain’s armband for the match.
With his side dealt an early blow in the form of a Thomas McNamara wonder-strike, Cocis helped the Fire recover with a heady run off the ball in the 19th minute.