GOLETA, Calif. –Jack McBean has floated around the periphery of the LA Galaxy lineup for the first two seasons of his professional career, but after a stellar preseason, McBean seems primed for a larger role.
Nine minutes after coming into the match, 18-year-old scored the game winner in the 80th minute as the Galaxy defeated the Colorado Rapids 2-1 to end the preseason with a 5-1-1 record. McBean was awarded for his efforts, not simply with the game-winning-goal, but also a couple of high-fives from a pair of his former teammates from Corona del Mar High School who rushed the field after the goal.
After a successful preseason that saw him notch four goals in seven games, McBean admits that is confidence is high.
“I knew that I was going to get some opportunities during the last couple of games because some other forwards are out right now,” said McBean. “There’s always room for improvement for sure, but as games have gone on I’ve done better in each game so I’m pretty happy with that.”
Against Colorado, McBean provided a fitting compliment to Keane as his willingness to mix it up with forward allowed the Irish playmaker to open up chances for the youngster. Although the pair are still learning how to play with one another, Keane has been impressed with the young forward.
“He’s looking strong and it’s always nice to get goals when you’re that young as well because it gives you a lot of confidence. He’s certainly done well and it gives us a few different options up top,” said Keane. “These few the last games are the only times that I’ve played with him, but the more that I play with him, the more that I can help him as much as I can.”
If on Sunday, McBean was asked to start or play an important role off the bench, the teenager believes that he’s ready to deliver.
“I’m definitely ready,” said McBean. “I played against an MLS starting back four [on Friday] and I definitely think that I’m ready.”
