A little less conversation, a little more action…
According to Jonathan Lewis and Head Coach Patrick Vieira, that’s been the Rookie’s mantra in the last few weeks as he’s sought to add more minutes to his first pro season.
This increased focus on concentration and perspiration earned a 78th substitute appearance against Philadelphia Union, his second appearance in blue since joining as second overall pick in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft.
Despite the fact he only had 12 minutes to impress, the 20-year old made his cameo count, helping to turn the tide in his team’s favor as NYCFC scored twice late on to win 2-1.
Key Moment
It may not have led to a goal but Lewis gave a demonstration of what he can bring to the team in the 82nd minute when he twisted his fullback marker inside and out before delivering a cross to Jack Harrison.
The shot was saved by Andre Blake but the confidence Lewis showed to go outside of the defender and then cut back inside before delivering the pinpoint cross showed his pace, tight control and take-on ability.
If he can kick on and keep assimilating the advice from his more experienced teammates, Jonathan looks like he could be an interesting option when his Head Coach needs to stretch tiring defenses in the short term before going on to compete for starts.
In Patrick’s Words…
“All credit to him because he’s been working really well and he needed the opportunity to show he’s working well. He had it today and when he came on he gave pace, he was direct and when Jonathan is like that he can give a lot of problems to a lot of defenses.
“He needs to develop himself but I’m really happy with him the last 7-10 days because of the attitude he’s showed.”
In Jonathan’s Words…
“It was good but the hard work doesn’t stop here – I have to keep pushing on. The team did really well today, we showed a fight to get back in and win this game. I’ve just been putting my head down and working, listening to the people around me and gaining my teammates trust. I’ve been listening and not talking too much. I’ve just to listen to the coaches, listen to my teammates and working really hard.”
Stats
