Octavio Rivero joined the Vancouver Whitecaps prior to the start of the 2015 MLS season and has been nothing but magnificent. Rivero scored in his debut with the Whitecaps during a 2-1 loss to their Canadian rival, Toronto FC. Rivero continued to score, leading the team to two straight wins. His goals against the Chicago Fire and Orlando City SC were both game-winning goals. It was enough to propel him to become MLS Etihad Airways Player of the Month for March.
Rivero went up against some tough competition as Kaká, Ike Opara, Bradley Wright-Phillips and Blas Perez were all nominated. This is why he was nominated for the award according to mlssoccer.com; There was a little hype around this Uruguayan striker coming into the season. So far he has lived up to all of it. Rivero has led the line for the Whitecaps as they have captured wins in each of the last three games. The Designated Player has scored three goals in the Caps' four games, including late game-winners against Chicago and Orlando City.
Final results for Etihad Airways Player of the Month (March)
Octavio Rivero (VAN) 26.6%
Kaká (ORL) 26.2%
Ike Opara (SKC) 19.0%
Bradley Wright-Phillips (NY) 15.8%
Blas Perez (DAL) 12.3%
As you can see, Rivero barely beat Kaka. He had an excellent month of March and the Whitecaps and fans can only hope that is continues for the rest of the season. Will Rivero be the answer for their playoff woes? Will Rivero be able to lead the Whitecaps back to the playoffs for a second straight season? Time will only tell.