Major League Soccer fans once again had the opportunity to select the MLS Goal of the Year, an annual award given to the player whose goal is judged to be the most spectacular effort during the regular season. MetroStars midfielder Clint Mathis captured the 2001 honor for his thrilling run on April 28 against the Dallas Burn at Giants Stadium.

A perfect example of skill and individual effort, Mathis took a pass from teammate Richie Williams about 60 yards from goal. Mathis turned upfield, cut past Dallas defenders Ryan Suarez and Jorge Rodriguez, carried the ball just inside the Burn penalty area and sliced a 16-yard blast beyond the reach of Dallas goalkeeper Matt Jordan.

Mathis outdistanced Columbus Crew midfielder Brian Maisonneuve's brilliant 29-yard right-footed volley against the MetroStars and Chicago Fire midfielder Peter Nowak's penetrating 50-yard solo run versus Dallas.

The process for deciding the top candidates for MLS Goal of the Year includes input from the fans, coaches, general managers, players, the league office and media. Three finalists were announced on October 9, with video of their spectacular goals posted on www.MLSnet.com for fans to determine the winner.