HARRISON, N.J. (March 30, 2015) – New York Red Bulls forward Mike Grella’s game-winning goal from Saturday’s 2-1 win at Columbus has been nominated for MLS Goal of the Week. The Long Island native’s first MLS goal was also the organization’s 1,000th across all competitions, and propelled New York to the top of the Eastern Conference standings with seven points through three games, including four points on the road against Columbus and Sporting KC.

Grella entered a 1-1 game as a sub in the 66th minute. He immediately got involved, pressuring the Columbus defense after a restart. Grella’s press unsettled the Columbus defense, and an attempted pass was deflected by Bradley Wright-Phillips back towards the Columbus goal. Grella ran onto the loose ball and one-timed a chip over the head of Crew SC ‘keeper Steve Clark.

It was Grella’s first involvement, and first touch of the game. The forward signed with New York after impressing during a trial spell. The Glen Cove, N.Y. native returns home after spending time playing across England, most notably with storied side Leeds United.