Since joining Orlando City to begin the 2016 season, Joe Bendik has been a stalwart in goal for the Lions. Coming to Orlando from Toronto, there were doubts about how Bendik would fit into a team that had just released veteran Tally Hall, a fan favorite in the back line. Bendik spent the 2016 season proving himself to the Orlando City faithful, with the second most saves in the league, stopping 114 shots his first year in Orlando.
In 2017, Bendik has once again stepped up in huge spots for the Lions. Coming off a performance in Portland, where he made seven saves, the keeper now has 106 on the season, quickly approaching his total from last season. Those seven saves match his season high of saves in a game, which he had on April 23 against NYCFC and on May 6 at Houston.
With that total save number being as high as it is, the amount of goals Bendik has allowed this season is lower than it was last year to this point. This shows not only his individual improvement, but the defense playing in front of him.
The Lions keeper has been in the best form of his career, which has ultimately gotten him on the U.S. National Team radar. He was named to the 40-man preliminary roster back in June and although he did not make the final roster, being one of the six keepers to be in consideration is huge for the 28-year-old.
As this season winds down for the Lions, Bendik could look to add to his impressive goalkeeping record and help Orlando end the season on a positive note.
