Reaching your first MLS goal is a milestone for any player and in the 2021 season we had six players reach this marker in their career. Let’s look back on all the first-time goals and remember how we celebrated them together.
Miles Robinson Goal - Nov. 7 against FC Cincinnati
In a year full of highlights, Miles Robinson achieved a club-level highlight as well. After scoring three goals with the USMNT, Robinson was still missing his first MLS goal. But on Nov. 7, Miles achieved just that. His first goal came on Decision Day, Atlanta was down 1-0 against Cincinnati, but Robinson’s header tied the game and helped get the 5-Stripes on the path to victory.
Luiz Araújo- Sept. 15 against FC Cincinnati
It only took Luiz Araújo six games to score his first MLS goal. The Brazilian striker had gotten close several times before, but on Sept. 15 he got on the score sheet. In the first five minutes of the game against FC Cincinnati, Araújo sped past four defenders and scored an incredible first goal. The crowd only got more excited when Araújo jumped over the advertising boards and celebrated in front of fans.
George Campbell – Sept. 10 against Orlando City SC
Sept. 10 was a very important date for our very own Homegrown, George Campbell. In an incredible game against Orlando City SC, Campbell scored a header that had everyone on the team and stands celebrating his first goal. Before the match Campbell told his mother that he would score for her birthday present, Campbell kept good on his word and Atlanta went on to win 3-0 against Orlando.
Ronald Hernandez- July 21 against FC Cincinnati
70 minutes into the game against FC Cincinnati, Brooks Lennon drove the ball deep into the area sending a cross that fell perfectly in place for Ronald Hernandez. Hernandez came up from behind and with great force sent the ball into the back left corner of the goal.
Jackson Conway- July 8 against Nashville SC
After receiving a corner from Marcelino Moreno, Jackson Conway found the perfect pocket to receive the ball and hit a header in the bottom right corner of the goal. Conway reached this milestone only three games into his MLS career.
Erik López – May 29 against Nashville SC
After being signed to the first team at the beginning of the 2021 season, it did not take long for Erik López to score his first MLS goal. In the 51st minute of the game against Nashville SC, Moreno sped past defenders and passed the ball to Bello who crossed it perfectly for López to tap it in using the back of his heel. The 20-year-old striker celebrated his first MLS goal with his teammates on and off the pitch.
