MetroStars forward/midfielder Mike Magee has played a key role in helping the Metros win their last three games, including Sunday's 3-0 win over the Los Angeles Galaxy. Magee made a notable contribution in the game, playing attacking midfielder and laying off a beautiful no-look left-footed pass for Eddie Gaven's goal. Magee recently sat down to talk about playing in the midfield, team momentum and facing the Dallas Burn.
MetroStars.com: How important was last week's win against the L.A. Galaxy?
Mike Magee: It was really important. They are a team that we've had good luck against in the past and to keep that going is definitely important. We're trying to catch them. They are the top of the league right now, so to gain three points on them while they didn't get any was definitely good. It works to our advantage.
MetroStars.com: Do you think that having the same starting lineup for the last three games is the main reason why the team has been playing so well?
MM: Maybe. But anybody on our team can play. I think we have a really deep roster this year, which we didn't have last year and I think everyone who has stepped on the field has done a really good job. It definitely helps getting into a comfort level with each other. Everybody's been working really hard which is working really well, too.
MetroStars.com: Have you found playing in the midfield a big adjustment?
MM: Not a huge one but definitely it is an adjustment. There is a lot more defensive responsibility and a lot more running. It's something that I have played in the past before joining MLS.
MetroStars.com: In the MetroStars' last game against Dallas, the team lost 2-0. What will you guys look for this Sunday to try and improve your result?
MM: [We'll] keep playing the way we've been playing. We definitely feel like we owe them one, but we know we play how we know we can play. I think we'll get three points.
MetroStars.com: The MetroStars are considered by many to be the hottest team in MLS. How do you continue the momentum towards the playoffs?
MM: Momentum is the most important thing going into the playoffs. If we can keep it going it would definitely help. It's the work rate. Everybody's working really hard. It starts with our leaders, Eddie Pope and Amado Guevara, who are working really hard. It's just going down the ladder to all the young guys and the other guys on the team.
