The New England Revolution dominated Atlanta United on Saturday evening but the 4-1 win was particularly special for Brooklyn Raines.
The midfielder secured the first goal and assist of his professional career. Raines' goal was a calm effort after a great series of passes between himself and Jackson Yueill. The 21-year-old made a great run to get behind Atlanta's backline before slotting his shot into the back of the net.
“It feels amazing, especially because my family was here, so I'm glad they got to experience my first MLS goal and assist," Raines said after the game. "But for me, it's all about the team to be honest. To do what I did today, I wouldn't be able to do without them, so I give a lot of props to my teammates.”
The midfielder then immediately flashed a smile before griddying his way over to Diego Fagundez. Raines said postgame that the veteran told Raines if he scored to break out the celebration.
"Amazing, all of it," Ethan Kohler told The Blazing Musket about Raines' goal and celebration. "The goal, the celebration, the way he played today, amazing. He's a really top player, and I'm happy he got his reward with the goal because I think even without the goal, he had an unbelievable game, and he's been so important for us."
Similarly, Griffin Yow gave the griddy a 10 out of 10.
"Obviously, he's a good player and a good kid," Yow told The Blazing Musket. "I always like to see my boy succeed. I think it's a long time coming and hopefully the first of many."
Raines has made himself a key part of this Revolution squad. He has gradually improved throughout the season and now seems like a player who can't be taken out of the starting XI.
Saturday will be a moment that Raines remembers for a while. It is well deserved for a player who is committed to his craft and has shown the ability to develop over the course of 2026.
