Amid New York City FC's thrilling 3-3 tie with Minnesota United in the first game at Allianz Field, Sean Johnson allowed a stunning own goal in the 32nd minute.
The US international showed resolve immediately after the gaffe, rebounding despite the hostile crowd. He didn't concede another goal and continued to confidently play out of the back. After the game, he faced the media, taking blame and not looking for excuses.
“Obviously disappointed to let the guys down in that moment, but things happen, and they know," Johnson said after the game. "I apologized to them, put my hand up, and we moved forward. Everybody assured me that they had my back today, and we were able to come back out with a point.”
As Johnson said, his teammates had his back.
“I think on any other day that doesn’t happen," midfielder James Sands said. "You can’t really blame him. He’s saved us in three or four games, so it happens."
Head coach Dome Torrent joined in as well.
“I’m very proud of him because it’s not easy after that happens to play with confidence," Torrent said. "The problem is when we play poorly or don’t play with confidence. I am very proud of him because it's not easy to recover quickly after that.”
Johnson and NYCFC go again on Sunday at D.C. United (4 pm ET | ESPN in US, MLS LIVE on DAZN in Canada).
