Robby Christner wants to give Pumas fans 'lots to cheer for' in 2010

Robby Christner wants to win with the Kitsap Pumas, and he wants to entertain fans along the way, too. What better way to start that pledge off than by scoring two goals and helping beat a team two divisions higher? That's what Robby did and that's what the Pumas accomplished in last weekend's 3:2 stunner over the Portland Timbers at Bremerton's Memorial Stadium. We caught up with Robby to get his thoughts a few days after the big win, and to find out more about the newly signed Pumas attacker.

Christner went to Oregon State University, and while with the Beavers managed to set a national record. "The greatest moment I had at OSU was breaking the NCAA record for the fastest two consecutive goals," recalls Christner. "It was 8 seconds. Don't ask how because I have no clue. Just right place at the right time I guess. I ended up getting Pac 10 Player of the Week as well for that achievment."

Christner at the first Pumas' practice on March 17. (David Falk)

Christner tried to catch on in Europe in 2009 but ended by playing indoors for the California Cougars. "I was in Switzerland training and playing with a few teams, but unfortunately it didn't workout due to some Visa issues," says Robby of his European adventures. "Switzerland is a hard country to get into if you're not part of the EU. When I got back I called Brian Farber, who plays with the Timbers, and he hooked me up with a tryout down in Cali with the Cougars."  Playing indoors is something Christner had experienced, though not at the pro level. "I've always played indoor at the rec. level, but nothing really serious. Once I made the team I soon figured out pro indoor is a completely different story. It's like hockey with penalty kills, and power plays, subbing every minute. Didn't know what I got my self into and it was hard to adjust. Towards the middle of the season I started picking it up and our team had a lot of veteran players who were able to guide me along as well."  

Robby was with the Cougars when they won a close one against the Tacoma Stars in Tacoma last season. "I came up with the Cougars to play Tacoma. We won, but I had a horrible game. I ended up with three blue cards, which isn't even possible, because your third should be a red and send off. Reffing was questionable. Thats all I'll say," he says with a grin.

How did Christner get a look from the Kitsap Pumas? "I was talking with one of my old teammates down in Cali," remembers Robby, "and he mentioned it (playing in the PDL) and fortunately one of my coaches from OSU knows Pete Fewing (Pumas head coach) really well, so he contacted him for me and Pete and I were able to link up. And, four days later I made the trip from Cali up to here."  Christner impressed in tryouts and has now signed with Kitsap for the 2010 season.

Christner in action last weekend against the Portland Timbers. (Jenni Conner)

That brings us to Robby's big debut in blue and white hoops. An Oregon boy waiting in the weeds to help Bremerton knock down Portland. It ended in glory for the fourth-division West Sound locals after a dramatic 3:2 win. "I have nothing against the Timbers," says Christner. "Solid team, and a lot of fun to play against. A couple of really good team mates from OSU. But yes it was a personal victory for sure, and obviously one for Kitsap."

Christner replays the winning goals for us. "First goal was an underhit cross that was nodded back down to me and I took a touch and had a rip. The ball started out going straight at Steve Cronin (Portland goalkeeper) and it just kept fading away from him. One of the better goals of my career for sure. The second goal was a straight near post run in, and Greg Miley took it to the endline and cut it hard back , right into my path and I redirected it far post. All of our goals were great goals. Tye (Perdido's) was goal ridiculous as well. Just lifting it over the keeper."

Robby raises a fist in celebration after scoring his second goal against Portland. (Jenni Conner)

So what can Pumas fans expect out of Christner's game this year? "I think my biggest assets to the team are my speed, leadership, and a little bit of wisdom that comes with being one of the older guys on the team at 24."  Robby is realistic about his size but has learned to play to his strengths. "I'm not exactly a big power forward, as you already know. I work well playing underneath other big forwards and also making runs in behind the defense to utilize my pace."  I asked Christner about how versatile he is at switching positions. "I love playing out wide as well, and in the middle. Out wide is fun 'cause I get a lot of space and I'm able to run at people. The only problem is I don't get the ball as much. It's fun for me to play in the middle too. It enables me to take a cracker from outside every once in a while. I like to play simple as well and the midfield is all about playing simple and keeping the ball moving."

It is just the start for the 2010 Pumas, and for Christner, too. "I'm stoked for this season. Great bunch of guys, good personalities, strong leaders, and no hot head egotistical players. A humble team. But at the same time we're good and we know we are so we can't get complacent. I feel like the team is gonna give the fans a lot to cheer for and it's going to be fun."

UP NEXT: Robby and the Pumas play Gonzaga University Saturday April 10 at 1:00 PM at Bainbridge High School in more pre-season action. Tickets at the gate. $10 adults / $5 kids 14 and under.

Stay with Seattle Soccer Examiner all season long for Kitsap Pumas news.