2017 Central Florida 85 Nos. 1-17: The Best of the Best

16. Joe Bendik, Orlando City

When Orlando City was rolling to begin the season no one stood taller than Joe Bendik. Honestly, even with the Lions struggling on the pitch, Bendik is still standing tall. Every week, it seems like he comes up with a MLS Save of the Week-caliber save.

Things might be falling apart, but Bendik is usually there to save them.

Bendik is second in MLS in saves with 88 entering Saturday’s game against the New England Revolution, a statement both of Orlando’s poor defense during this cold stretch and Bendik’s ability to stop the ball from going in the net. Granted, Bendik has given up the third most goals in the league. He added four more against in the loss Saturday.

It is all part of the contradiction and difficulty of figuring out this Orlando City team. The Lions clearly have some of the most talented players in the league and strong players at many positions. The whole puzzle just has not come together.

Fans and management at least believe Bendik is the guy between the posts. He has produced enough highlights to inspire some confidence. Orlando City has been such a mess it is hard to figure out where to lay the blame. Everyone has had their share.

That would include Bendik. He has let in some goals that he probably should have gotten. But it is also clear things would be much worse without Bendik’s heroics. And there have been some world-class saves he has made.

Bendik has largely stayed above criticism even during this cold stretch for Orlando City. He always finds a way to deliver in some way.

It seems moving forward Orlando City feels secure with who the team has in net.