Last season’s 2020 Nigel Cooper Most Valuable Player is back for 2021. Leland Archer returns for his fourth year with the Battery after an impressive showing on the defensive unit in the shortened 2020 season.
Archer was an indefatigable defender last season being the only player to start all 17 matches. His defensive prowess was on full display in that time as the former College of Charleston standout led the team in several statistical categories. His 63 clearances would go on to set up big plays for the attack. Additionally, Archer’s 16 blocks gave plenty of breathing room for the goalkeeping unit as Joe Kuzminsky and Phil Breno would combine for 6 clean sheets.
Archer’s performance all season did not go unnoticed. Along with the team MVP nod, Leland was selected by fans as the Battery's 2020 Derek Revord Defensive Player of the Year and earned a spot on the USL Championship's All-League Second Team. His team-leading 1,530 minutes on the pitch was a career high.
“I’m excited to get going for 2021,” Archer said, “after getting so far in 2020. And having even more fans in our new stadium at Patriots Point, it’s going to be amazing.” Now, with three years in the Black and Yellow under his belt, Archer’s upward trajectory is just one more example of how 2021 is shaping up to be an amazing season.
SOURCE: charlestonbattery.com