Zach Steinberger Named NASL Player of the Week
Zach Steinberger receives NASL Player of the Week honors after leading his side to a 3-2 victory over Tampa Bay Rowdies on Sunday. The Calfiornia native recorded two assists and the game-winning goal as he receives the award for the final week of the 2016 NASL regular season.
NASL Soccer News: Jacksonville Armada FC won two of their last three matches to close out the 2016 North American Soccer League (NASL) Fall Season with midfielder Zach Steinberger playing a starring role in both results.
The 24-year-old midfielder scored the game-winning goal and tallied two assists in Jacksonville’s 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The California native receives NASL Player of the Week honors after his outstanding performance in Sunday’s match.
“It’s really an honor,” Steinberger said. “There are so many quality players in the NASL and I was fortunate enough to be able to earn a Player of the Week honor last season with Indy. To be able to finish off the season with this honor in Jacksonville is just awesome.
“More importantly, I think it was a huge win for our club and it will really mean a lot to the fans as they head into the offseason. I was just fortunate enough to score that goal and give those fans that great experience.”
With Jacksonville falling in a 2-0 hole against the Rowdies, Steinberger was instrumental in Alhassane Keita’s goal in the 29th minute to cut the deficit. Steinberger’s backheel set up Keita for a left-footed strike into the back of the net. With the final minutes of the match approaching at Community First Park, Steinberger fed Jemal Johnson for the equalizer. Less than one minute later it was Steinberger, who was on loan from the Houston Dynamo, recording the game-winner for Jacksonville.
“This is really the icing on the cake,” said Armada FC coach Mark Lowry. “To have a win like that is fantastic and for Zach to be able receive this honor is just so deserved. He has really been a difference-maker for us and that was no clearer than yesterday. We wish him the best and know that he has a bright future.”
Two weeks ago, Steinberger was instrumental in Jacksonville’s 3-2 win over Miami FC when he notched assists on goals by Charles Eloundou and Alex Dixon.
In 20 appearances for Jacksonville this campaign (18 starts), Steinberger added four goals and four assists (tying Johnson for the team lead).
“It really helps build my confidence as a player and it was great to be able to do so with the Armada FC,” Steinberger said. “It will really help me in my career.”
Check out Steinberger’s highlights from the weekend below:
Photo Credit: North American Soccer League
