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The Best of MLS Week 19: Diego Valeri, NYCFC and more

Photo by Troy Wayrynen/USA Today Sports
Photo by Troy Wayrynen/USA Today Sports

New York City FC got back on the right side of the win column on Sunday, while the Portland Timbers earned an important victory of their own against a traditional foe.

Meanwhile, the Vancouver Whitecaps and New York Red Bulls each earned a win and a tie during this week’s action.

Here is a look at the week’s best in MLS for Week 19, as chosen by SBI staff:

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

After missing Wednesday’s tie against the Montreal Impact, Diego Valeri put in an excellent shift against the Seattle Sounders on Sunday. The Argentine’s pair of goals gave the home side Timbers a 2-0 advantage, but his active presence throughout the afternoon made a noticeable difference in the team’s attack.

FC Dallas attacker Fabian Castillo and NYCFC’s David Villa were also in the running for this week’s Player of the Week honors.

TEAM OF THE WEEK

NYCFC earned an impressive road win against the Montreal Impact behind goals from David Villa, Jack Harrison and Frank Lampard. The Timbers also looked impressive in their 3-1 win against the Seattle Sounders, while earning a midweek draw against the Impact.

ROOKIE OF THE WEEK

In addition to scoring one of the best goals of the weekend, Jack Harrison continued his impressive rookie campaign for NYCFC in an all around complete performance from the Englishman.

Elsewhere, Philadelphia Union attacker Fabian Herbers and Sounders forward Jordan Morris each put in solid shifts throughout the week.

GOAL OF THE WEEK

There were a lot of fantastic finishes during the week, including quality efforts from Diego Valeri and Jack Harrison, however, Cristian Techera’s long-distance golazo earned top honors.

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What did you think of this week’s selections? Which player impressed you the most this week? Which rookie do you think had the best week 19?

Share your thoughts below.

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