Chad Marshall Wins MLS Defender Of The Year

Chad Marshall was named the 2014 MLS Defender of the Year in his first season playing for Seattle Sounders FC.

Chad Marshall becomes the first player to win the award in rave green, as well as the first ever player to be awarded MLS Defender of the Year three times.

Marshall narrowly edged out another former winner, Bobby Boswell of DC United, for the award. Of the three categories – club vote, media vote, and player vote – Boswell actually was the leading vote-getter in two of them. But Marshall won a resounding 28.42% of the player vote, compared to 16.67% for Boswell.

May 3, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Sounders FC defender Chad Marshall (14) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Philadelphia Union during the second half at CenturyLink Field. Seattle defeated Philadelphia 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Marshall won the award despite not being part of an elite defense. Among playoff teams, the Sounders, along with the New York Red Bulls, conceded the most goals (50).

But Marshall really stood out when it came to individual statistics. He lead MLS in both interceptions and aerial duels won, as well as posting a RIDICULOUS 69% total duel win rate.

In the team release, Sigi Schmid gave his two cents in his usual matter of fact manner.

“I’m very happy for Chad. He has played well this season and been a great impact on our team. To be the first three-time winner shows his consistent high-quality play in our league throughout his career.”

Chad Marshall also came up big for Seattle offensively, scoring the winner in the 84th minute against Philadelphia Union back in May. Marshall also played stellar defense in that match blocking multiple shots that would have been on target.

Obafemi Martins (MVP), Schmid (Coach of the Year) and Stefan Frei (Comeback player) are also up for postseason awards.