After scoring a brace against Toronto FC in their 2-1 victory, D.C. United forward Lamar Neagle was named MLS Player of the Week for Week 30. His two goals against the Reds helped United stay above the red line. United now sits in 5th place in the Eastern Conference standings with two games left in the season.
Neagle’s first goal brings the teams level
After falling behind in the 36th minute on a goal from Jozy Altidore, Neagle tied things up for the Black and Red just three minutes later. After Steve Birnbaum’s shot was deflected by a defender and tipped away by goalkeeper Clint Irwin, the shot came right into Neagle’s path. He was able to simply head the ball home to level the score at 1-1 late in the first half.
Neagle’s second goals give United the lead
13 minutes into the second half, Neagle secured his brace. After receiving a perfectly weighted through ball from Lloyd Sam, Neagle was able to beat Toronto’s backline to the ball. As Irwin came out to challenge the shot, Neagle one-timed his shot past Irwin and into the center of the net. That was all the United would need and secured a big three points on the road.
Neagle is third United player to win award
This is the third time this season that a player from D.C. United has been named MLS Player of the Week. Patrick Mullins received the award after Week 25 and Fabián Espíndola earned the same honors for Week Six.
Neagle on fire as of late
In his last 272 minutes of action on the field, Neagle has scored six goals. He currently has nine goals in 29 games played, 20 starts, in 2016. He also has assisted on six others this season. His next goal will set a career high for goals in a season.
What’s next?
Neagle and D.C. United will return to action on Sunday, October 16th, as they will host New York City FC. A win against New York City will all but lock up a place in the playoffs for the Black and Red.
The MLS Player of the Week is selected each week of the regular season by a panel of journalists from NASR. The group consists of members of print, television, radio and media.