Troy Perkins became the first-ever member of D.C. United to be named MLS goalkeeper of the year, the league announced Thursday. Perkins topped New England’s Matt Reis and Colorado’s Joe Cannon for the award in the league.
“I’m a bit shocked by this announcement, but I’m really happy,” said Perkins. “During preseason, I made a list of things that I wanted to accomplish on the field in 2006. Winning this award was on the list and I’m happy to check it off. That said, there are more items to strive for before the end of the year. I’d like to thank my wife for being so supportive of my career, the entire United roster for pushing me to improve on a daily basis, and the coaching staff.”
Starting all but two matches of the 2006 season, the 25-year-old Perkins was among the league leaders in goals-against average (1.13) and shutouts (eight). He also owns three of the season’s longest shutout streaks, scoreless stretches of 338, 247 and 243 minutes.
United at Red Bulls
» What: MLS Eastern Conference Semifinals
» Where: Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J.
» When: 2 p.m., Saturday
» TV: CSN
» Radio: 1160 AM/1540 AM
