Ronny Reaction: "I'm Proud of the Way We Defended."

Published on May 29, 2022 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
New York City FC News Release

New York Football City Club Head Coach Ronny Deila has expressed his pride in the wake of the team's 1-0 win against Minnesota United.

The Boys in Blue concluded a busy week of action with a trip to Allianz Field on Saturday night. A single goal from Alex Callens proved the difference and stretched the team's unbeaten run in all competitions to eleven games. Speaking afterward, Deila hailed his team's performance and quality throughout the week and expressed his pride.

"It was very important," Deila said of the win. "It's important we get as many points as we can. We have to remember we played Sunday, Wednesday, 120 minutes and again now Saturday. That's very hard - the hardest run you can have. To get away with six points and go through in the cup is an amazing achievement. I'm just proud of the way we defended. We stayed in the game, and sometimes you have to suffer - especially away from home - and we did that."

Deila also took time out to praise the performance of Alex Callens. The defender produced a towering header in the 29th minute to give NYCFC the lead before helping repel Minnesota in the second half. A complete performance from the Peruvian international, Deila described him as 'vital'.

"He put his finger in front of me every time he scores and so this time it was three and that's great," Deila said after challenging Callens to score more goals. "He's been unbelievable. He has to be best central defender in the league. I can't see anybody that I would rate the higher than him. Now I just really, really hope he makes it to the World Cup with Peru. The only thing Peru has to know is that he's coming in the best shape ever. He's been so vital for us this year so I'm looking forward to see the games and I hope I can come to Qatar to watch him in the World Cup."

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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