Allan Oyirwoth Happy to Notch First Goal

Hear what Oyirwoth had to say after scoring his first goal during Revolution II's 2-1 win over NYCFC II.

Photo Courtesy of New England Revolution II

Saturday’s 2-1 win over New York City FC II will be one Allan Oyirwoth will remember for a long time. The 18-year-old played a major factor as he netted his first goal with Revolution II in the 71st minute to secure the victory.

You’d think an 18-year-old who netted the game-winning goal would rightfully hype themselves up, but Oyirwoth took the time to applaud the team effort.

“It was very good football and I ended up scoring my first goal for the second team,” he said. “I’m very happy for this and I know as we continue as a team, we are going to get more goals together and get more wins.”

Since arriving in January, Oyirwoth has split his time training with the first team while getting all his minutes on the field with Revolution II. It’s something Oyirwoth credits to his development as a player.

“It’s helping me a lot in my development,” the 18-year-old said. “I'm training with the first team. I'm playing games with the second team. I need these 90 minutes. That's why I'm here with the second team. I'm very happy with the second team playing games and training with the first team, giving me a lot of confidence and a lot of courage in the games.”

Being over 6,000 miles away from his native Uganda, he credits everyone at the organization for making the transition as easy as possible and for being there for him during those tough times. While Oyirwoth is truly grateful for everybody, he emphasized first-team midfielder Alhassan Yusuf for his help.

“Yusuf helps a lot,” he said. “He talks to me every day. Whenever I’ve had some problems, I call him and talk to him. He advises me and gives me courage. He gives me confidence. A good person who helps me a lot.”

This week saw the New England Revolution transfer Homegrown midfielder Noel Buck to the San Jose Earthquakes. It wasn’t the only reason, but Caleb Porter did tell the media that having guys like Allan in the pipeline played a factor in the move. Hearing those words truly meant a lot to Oyirwoth.

“I’m working extremely hard because I want that position on the first team,” he said. “That helps boost my confidence.”

Richie Williams and defender Damario McIntosh also had great things to say about Oyirwoth following Saturday’s game.

Williams called his goal a great left-footed finish and McIntosh praised the way Oyirwoth has acclimated and carries himself.

“I think he’s done well,” the defender said. “Coming all the way from Uganda, he’s settled in really well. I see it every day in training. He has a smile on his face all the time.”

Oyirwoth still has a way to go before becoming first-team ready, but it’s clear he’s putting full effort into making that a reality sooner rather than later.