Frank Lampard was in the New York City FC starting lineup for the first time this season after battling his way back from a preseason calf injury.
Eight minutes after the opening kickoff, the legendary midfielder scored his first goal of the campaign, an ideal start to a critical 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Union Saturday afternoon at Yankee Stadium.
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“When you look at the way he played in the first 75 minutes he was on the field, he showed his experience and he showed his quality,” NYCFC coach Patrick Vieira said. “He’s somebody who had really good timing to get inside the box and he’s the one who can put the ball in the back of the net. He’s a massive asset for us.”
Lampard followed a deflected shot by Tommy McNamara and slipped a left-footed shot into the net from the edge of the six-yard box.
“For me personally, after being out for a long time, to try and contribute with goals, it’s been a big part of my game throughout my career, when you can get one early it gives you an inner confidence,” Lampard said.
Lampard also had a quality chance inside the opening minute, but he headed a Ronald Matarrita service wide of the net.
Lampard had four total shots, two on frame, 39 touches, a team-leading five tackles and a 67.9 passing percentage in a hard-working 75-minute shift.
It was more minutes than Lampard had played in his last three games combined.
“I feel good. I was a bit tired late in the second half just before I came off, but I’ll get better,” Lampard said. “I probably should have scored two or three today if I was a bit sharper. You can only get that with games. I’m delighted. I’ll take the goal, to be part of that performance and to come through with no problems. I just look forward now.”
SEE FRANK LAMPARD AND THE REST OF NYCFC AT THE NEW YORK DERBY ON JULY 3
