03.12.2014 17:31 h

Newcomer Morales, goalie Hamid win MLS awards

Chilean midfielder Pedro Morales, who joined the Vancouver Whitecaps last March from Spanish La Liga side Malaga, was named Major League Soccer's Newcomer of the Year on Wednesday.

The North American league also named D.C. United's Bill Hamid as MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, with both awards the result of voting by players, journalists and league officials.

Morales led Vancouver with 10 goals and set up 12 others, also a team best, and led the Whitecaps into the MLS playoffs. Vancouver won 10, drew four and lost only once when the 29-year-old striker found the net.

In addition, Morales assumed the captain's armband in July when veteran defender Jay DeMerit retired.

Morales received 87.68 points to 34.52 for runner-up Jermaine Jones of New England for the honor which goes to players new to MLS but not eligible for Rookie of the Year because of their experience in other leagues.

Hamid, an American, had 97.78 points to 88.76 for runner-up Nick Rimando of Real Salt Lake for the goalkeeper award.