Daryl Dike is back.
The 21 year-old phenom, recovered from a month-long injury layoff, dominated the Columbus Crew in a 3-2 Orlando City victory this past Saturday night, earning Heineken Man of the Match honors in his first start for the Club since July 3.
Dike felt his way into the game before scoring a stunning opener in the 25th minute. Nani sent a clearance into Dikeās feet at the halfway line and the big man did the rest, mowing over former University of Virginia teammate Aboubacar Keita before pushing back Vito Wormgoor and blasting a cannon shot into the roof of the net.
Dike wasnāt done. With the game tied 2-2 midway through the second half, the powerful Oklahoman put himself in a good position at the top of the box and found the ball at his feet after a Lucas Zelarayan turnover. Dike played a simple touch to an open JĆŗnior Urso, who rocketed it into the net to give the Lions the lead for good.
Dike was a maven throughout his night. The big man won six of his seven aerial duels and 12 of 14 overall, dominating whoever the Crew threw at him. Dike also drew two fouls, cleared two set plays and won the ball twice.
