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New York Cosmos Midfielder Yohandry Orozco Named NASL Player of the Week

May 2, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
New York Cosmos News Release


NEW YORK - New York Cosmos midfielder Yohandry Orozco helped his club top the league-leading Carolina RailHawks and snap a two-game losing streak, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory on Sunday at Shuart Stadium. The Venezuelan international's performance netted him North American Soccer League (NASL) Player of the Week honors.

Orozco struck just before halftime, latching onto a long ball over the top from teammate Gabriel Farfan. The 25-year-old attacking midfielder then blew by a pair of Carolina defenders before smashing the ball into the roof of the net to score what would prove to be the game-winning goal.

"I'm thrilled about this accomplishment, and I feel humbled and thankful for the opportunity that Giovanni Savarese has given me," Orozco said. "Scoring the winning goal against the league leader was not only special for me, but also important for our team because we were able to secure three more points in the standings. This only makes me feel like I want to continue to work hard to help bring more victories to the Cosmos."

The Maracaibo, Venezuela, native was active in the left side of the Cosmos' midfield all game long, making 48 passes and sending in five crosses, in addition to his all-important goal. The visiting RailHawks came to New York with an unblemished record, having picked up 12 points through their first four games. Orozco and the Cosmos put a stop to their winning streak, closing the gap in the Spring Season standings to three points.

"I would like to be the first one to congratulate Yohandry because he has worked very hard since arriving to the Cosmos and has showed his commitment and determination to reach his full potential," said Cosmos head coach Giovanni Savarese. "The coaching staff felt that he was ready to contribute to the team this week and during our game against Carolina, he definitely showed what he is capable of doing."

Orozco joined the Cosmos prior to the season after spending three years with Venezuelan side Deportivo Táchira. He played for a pair of other Venezuelan clubs to begin his professional career - Maracaibo and Zulia - before signing with German Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg, where he played from 2011-2013.

The 5-foot-5 midfielder has featured 25 times for the Venezuelan national team, and scored his first and only international goal in a friendly against Bolivia in 2013. He is joined by two other members of La Vinotinto in New York, as both Savarese and teammate Juan Arango have featured extensively for the national team over the years.

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