Mendes, Ayoze named to NASL team of the week

Two New York Cosmos players were named to the NASL team of the week based on their contributions last weekend. Both Carlos Mendes and Ayoze have been honored for their excellent work in the 4-0 victory over Atlanta.

Mendes has already been named the NASL player of the week, so his inclusion in the squad should not come as a surprise to anyone. The center back recorded a brace against Eric Wynalda's side in addition to being part of a unit that kept a clean sheet. He is currently the NASL's leading goalscorer with his two strikes from Sunday. Left back Ayoze also found the back of the net in the opener, scoring the second of the Cosmos four goals.

The full team of the week is as follows:

Goalkeeper

Matt Pickens, Tampa Bay Rowdies – Made three crucial saves, including a penalty save in 1-1 draw against FC Edmonton

Defenders

Carlos Mendes, New York Cosmos – Captain scored twice in Cosmos’ 4-0 win

Ayoze, New York Cosmos – Spaniard had goal and assist in the victory over the Silverbacks

Darnell King, Fort Lauderdale Strikers – Excellent at right back and scored against Fury FC

Erick Norales, Indy Eleven – Honduran held RailHawks’ front line mostly in check during steady 90 minutes

Midfielders

Justin Chavez, Fort Lauderdale Strikers – Impenetrable as a defensive midfielder and then central defender against Fury FC

A.J. Corrado, Indy Eleven – Made his pro debut a week after signing and assisted on Indy’s first goal

Aaron Pitchkolan, Minnesota United FC – Controlled the game in the midfield and had an assist for United

Forwards

Mike Ambersley, Indy Eleven – Scored first goal in Indy Eleven history to give home side the lead

Zach Schilawski, Carolina RailHawks – Notched the equalizer for the RailHawks

Christian Ramirez, Minnesota United FC – Scored a volley inside the box that surprised the Scorpion’s keeper