Joe Scally expresses delight after USMNT player scores sensational first goal in Gladbach
Understandably beaming after scoring with a blistering, long-range strike worthy of a world-class attacker, USMNT full-back Joe Scally cut a contented figure after netting his first-ever home goal for Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Coming on as a 79th minute substitute with his team trailing against Mainz under the Friday-night lights, the former New York City FC player settled quickly before producing the game's key goal. Gladbach - previously without a single point at home this term - looked to be heading for a 2-1 loss, until Scally produced a piece of stunning magic.
Picking up possession a distance outside the Mainz area, the 20-year-old expertly controlled before pushing to the right and unleashing a fearsome, dipping driving that left goalkeeper Robin Zentner with no chance. It was Scally's fourth goal in 71 appearances in all competitions for the Foals, and his first at Borussia-Park.
Watch: Scally scores screamer from downtown
"I just saw it on video and I'm very happy about it," the American told bundesliga.com after the game. "I knew when I got the ball in the middle I was going to shoot - because, why not?" he continued. "It went in the net so I'm very happy. After I scored the goal I didn't hear anything because of course you're just very emotional and happy. [Our] fans are amazing and I'm happy to get my first goal in front of them."
Those Borussia fans will now be hoping that Scally's morale-boosting strike will act as a catalyst for the five-time division champions to kick on after a difficult start to the 2023/24 campaign which has produced just one win in seven games.
"It wasn't an easy game for us today; of course we wanted to win but in the end it was important that we were able to take the point," Scally told Gladbach's official website. "I'm very happy that I was able to score the 2-2 with my first goal of the season and help my team."
Watch: Joe Scally: "I'm just happy for the fans"
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The Lake Grove native - who penned a contract extension through to 2027 with his club last April - will next be joining up with his international teammates for the USMNT's friendlies against Germany and Ghana.
The Stars and Stripes will provide the opposition for Julian Nagelsmann's first game in charge of Germany in East Hartford on 14 October while Scally and Co. will then face the Black Stars in Nashville three days later.
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