New York City FC enjoyed a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday night, courtesy of David Villa’s goal from the spot in stoppage time. The former Barcelona striker sent goalkeeper David Ousted the wrong way to register his 17th goal of the season and led the team to another victory in an exciting MLS encounter.
But it was former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard who gave his side an early lead in the first half with an exquisite one-touch finish. Lampard gathered a low cross from Angelino in his stride and slotted the ball home, registering his second goal of the season.
It was a typical Lampard finish and he has been known for doing this season after season with former side Chelsea. Despite being in the twilight of his footballing career, Lampard seems to still have his scoring boots on and he is undoubtedly a class act around the penalty area.
The build up to the former Chelsea and Manchester City midfielder’s goal was well constructed by the Italian midfield maestro Andrea Pirlo. The 36-year-old started the move from the centre and played a cross field pass to the left flank. Pirlo then moved further up the pitch to exchange few passes with his teammate before releasing a defence-splitting pass to Angelino who made a clever run behind the defender on the left.
Angelino allowed the ball to reach the byline before drifting a low cross to the penalty area which was well received by the former Chelsea man. Lampard rushed into the box before firing in a shot for his second goal for the New York franchise in the 29th minute.
It was the third straight victory for New York City in the MLS against the Western Conference leaders Vancouver. City are in eighth place in the Eastern Conference with 37 points this season.