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News, Blog and GuidesA dramatic late hat-trick from Yaya Kubo saw the Supporter’ Shield holders keep up their historic MLS form.
William GittinsWillGittUpdate: Jun 17th, 2024 05:46 EDT0
Darren YamashitaUSA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
Another weekend, another victory for FC Cincinnati as Yaya Kubo struck a stunning late hat-trick for the Supporters’ Shield holders. Cincy were 2-1 down against the struggling San Jose Earthquakes until Kubo’s decisive contribution secured a 4-2 win.
Cincinnati had taken the lead early in the second half before Hernán López and Cristian Espinoza turned things around for the Quakes. Kubo, on as a second half substitute, scored three times to secure an eighth win in nine matches.
“I don’t think I can remember anybody having that significant of an impact in that short of time,” Cincinnati head coach Pat Noonan said of the nine-minute treble. “It was an exceptional performance. I’m certainly pleased for him, coming off of a long absence, to perform so well in a short period of time.”
That Acosta to Kubo connection. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/scx6KPLkLg
— FC Cincinnati (@fccincinnati) June 16, 2024
What is the MLS points record?
Saturday’s win leaves Cincinnati second to Inter Miami in the Supporters’ Shield standings, but having played two games fewer than the Herons. They boast the best points-per-game p (2.12) in MLS this year and they are on course to finish the regular season with one of the highest points tallies in MLS history.
If Cincinnati keep picking up points at their current clip they will end the year on 72 points, the second-highest single-season tally. Only New England Revolution’s 2021 campaign picked up more (73), while the LAFC team of 2019 also managed 72. Here’s a look at the top ten MLS point totals…
Highest MLS points totals
New England Revolution, 73 points – 2021Los Angeles FC, 72 – 2019New York Red Bulls, 71 – 2018Toronto FC, 69 – 2017Atlanta United FC, 69 – 2018FC Cincinnati, 69 – 2023Los Angeles Galaxy, 68 – 1998Los Angeles Galaxy, 67 – 2011Los Angeles FC, 67 – 2022Philadelphia Union, 67 – 2022
