Wednesday night’s match for FC Dallas was a coming out party for a couple young players on the roster. Coy Craft scored his first goal of the season. Reggie Cannon got his first career start for the club at left back. And Mauro Diaz and Ryan Hollingshead both went 90 minutes for the first time in 2017 after returning from tough injuries.

But the big topic at hand continues to be the struggle up front for Cristian Colman. The Dallas striker had several chances to score on Wednesday night against the Tulsa Roughnecks in FC Dallas’ 2-1 win. Once again, Colman failed to find the back of the net, adding to the frustration in the young attacker.

FC Dallas manager Oscar Pareja sees things a little differently with Colman though and he continues to remain patient with his young striker.

“Cristian is working hard,” said Pareja following Wednesday night’s match. “I’m patient with him, I keep training him and I keep putting him through exercises. I also keep reviewing myself to see what I need to do better to help him.”

Colman had two big chances against Tulsa that add to the numerous chances that he has had in league play this season in front of goal. His last goal for FC Dallas came in the Champions League.

Wednesday’s game was also just the third game this season that Colman went the full 90 for FC Dallas. Pareja indicated after the match that he intends to continue to believe in his striker with more games like this.

“But Cristian doesn’t give up and I won’t give up also,” said Pareja.