Butler University product scores winner, adds pair of assists in Armada FC win

NASL Staff (@naslofficial} | Oct 31, 2016

NEW YORK – Jacksonville Armada FC won two of their last three games to close out the 2016 North American Soccer League (NASL) Fall Season and midfielder Zach Steinberger played a starring role in those results.

The 24-year-old midfielder scored the game-winning goal and tallied two assists in the Armada FC’s thrilling 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The California native has been named NASL Player of the Week after his outstanding performance in Sunday’s game.

“It’s really an honor,” Steinberger said. “There are so many quality players in the NASL and I was fortunate enough to be able to earn a Player of the Week honor last season with Indy. To be able to finish off the season with this honor in Jacksonville is just awesome.

“More importantly, I think it was a huge win for our club and it will really mean a lot to the fans as they head into the offseason. I was just fortunate enough to score that goal and give those fans that great experience.”

With Jacksonville finding itself in an early 2-0 hole against the Rowdies, Steinberger was instrumental in Alhassane Keita’s goal in the 29th minute to cut the deficit in half. Steinberger’s skillful backheel set up Keita for a left-footed shot and goal. With time running short in the game at Community First Park, Steinberger fed Jemal Johnson for the equalizer. Less than one minute later it was Steinberger, who was on loan from the Houston Dynamo, notching the game-winner for Armada FC.

“This is really the icing on the cake,” said Armada FC coach Mark Lowry. “To have a win like that is fantastic and for Zach to be able receive this honor is just so deserved. He has really been a difference-maker for us and that was no clearer than yesterday [Sunday]. We wish him the best and know that he has a bright future.”

Two weeks ago, Steinberger was instrumental in Jacksonville’s 3-2 win over another Florida club, Miami FC, when he had assists on goals by Charles Eloundou and Alex Dixon.

In 20 appearances for Jacksonville this year (18 starts), Steinberger chipped in with four goals and four assists (tying Johnson for the team lead).

“It really helps build my confidence as a player and it was great to be able to do so with the Armada FC,” Steinberger said. “It will really help me in my career.”