Martinez has been so dominant
he has scored in eight consecutive matches -- one shy of tying MLS’s all-time record of held by Diego Valeri -- and he scored nine straight Atlanta United goals until Tito Villalba
and Miguel Almiron each scored to help the Five Stripes move back on top of the Supporters’ Shield race.
Teammate Michael Parkhurst said Martinez's accomplishment
makes him one of the best players ever to play in MLS.
“The track record speaks for itself," he said. "It’s incredible. It really is. The fact that that record has stood for
as long as it has, and he’s crushing it in his first full season. Last season, he missed months; I don’t know how many games, but a lot. This season in his first full year, he’s
crushing it. It’s unbelievable.”
For his part, Martinez said he isn't ready to celebrate yet and won't do so until he breaks the record. After the game, he was happier for
Almiron, who has been in a slump since May and had not scored in six straight games.
“I’m happy for him because I think he’s been suffering lately. I don’t
remember the last time he’s scored, but I know it’s been a while. I think he’s been feeling some of the pressure, so I was happy for him. I think it’s important for him to have
the patience and perseverance to get that goal."
JM is 5'-7". Good thing he's Venezualan because he'd never get a snif with the Nats if he was American. Small Hispanic is small. /S