July 21, 2011
'BEST GAME OF MY LIFETIME'
Nyassi enjoys a career game in rout

COMMERCE CITY, Colo -- Not only did Colorado Rapids forward Sanna Nyassi recorded his first MLS hat-trick in the 4-1 romp over the Red Bulls on Wednesday, it was the first time he had scored three goals in a game.

"I think it’s the best game of my lifetime since I started playing," he said. "I don’t remember scoring a hat-trick, so this is my first time."

The Gambian native had entered the match without a goal in 14 apperances this season.

"I know that whenever I’m given that chance I can bring something to the team and help them win," he said. "So I think I’m going take it from there, looking forward to the next team and playing against my brother."

Nyassi had some really big shoes to fill replacing Conor Casey, who has been sidelined for eight months after rupturing his Achilles tendon on Saturday.

"It’s a good thing that we got a win," he said. "And I dedicate this win to Conor since he got a season ending injury, so it’s a good night."

That was fine with Rapids coach Gary Smith.

"All players have got their qualities and understanding of the game," he said. "I just felt that little bit more freedom in there. He’s not been asked to necessarily defend as much, but we saw good work on the other side of the ball as well. But what was the difference was in and around their penalty box. A change of pace, a bit of creation, and a real decisive movement. You wanted to get beyond their back four and really make something happen."