In a pre-match interview Saturday afternoon ahead of his first MLS start, Orlando City forward Silvester van der Water told Club sideline reporter Gabrielle Amado, “It’s time to shine.”
And shine he did.
Van der Water’s assist, just 12 minutes into his first start in an Orlando shirt, was enough to propel the Lions to a 1-0 victory over Toronto FC on Saturday night. He was named Heineken Man of the Match for his efforts.
It wasn’t even the Dutchman’s first highlight. Moments before his assist, van der Water cheekily attempted to chip Reds keeper Alex Bono from outside the penalty area, teasing the Wall for what was soon to come.
Van der Water excelled after the assist, as well. In the 20th minute, he tracked back to win the ball, then flew forward to join the attack and drew a yellow card on Toronto’s new Designated Player, Yeferson Soteldo. The Dutchman finished his night winning five of his eight duels with two tackles, three ball recoveries, three shots and a team-high two fouls won.
“It’s an amazing feeling,” said van der Water after receiving the Heineken Man of the Match award. “I’m so happy. It was a good night.”
