MLS
Eskandarian's Two Goals Earn Player of the Week Honors
By Russell Shiring
April 24, 2006
Alecko Eskandarian continued his strong early season form while scoring two goals in D.C. United's 4-1 win over rivals Red Bull New York. His performance earned him MLS Player of the Week honors for week four, the third time in his career he has taken home the award.
After sitting out most of last season due to post-concussion syndrome, Eskandarian has played well early in the season and has registered three goals.
"I think he has the confidence and it is backed up from the other guys," said D.C. United head coach Peter Nowak. "When he comes off the bench, he makes a difference and when he starts, he makes a difference."
Eskandarian capitalized on a Red Bull mistake in the 41st minute to give his team a 1-0 lead. Picking up a weak defensive clearance off a cross, he drove the ball past Red Bulls goalkeeper Tony Meola.
After the goal, he ran to the D.C. United bench, took a sip of Red Bull and spit out the drink. The move generated some controversy as he appeared to mock the organization that just invested about $100 million in the league.
"I've had a history of concussions, so I can't really remember," Eskandarian said when asked if the celebration was premeditated.
In the 59th minute he followed up with the eventual game winner, finishing off a nice set of passes from teammates Brian Carroll and Ben Olsen.
"Getting the start today was a big confidence booster for me and I just wanted to repay him (Nowak) and help my team win games," said the New Jersey nativev. "Obviously to do it at home, in front of friends and family, was great for me."
2006 Player of the Week Winners
Week 1: Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo)
Week 2: Jaime Moreno (D.C. United)
Week 3: Cornell Glen (L.A. Galaxy)
Week 4: Alecko Eskandarian (D.C. United)