New York City Football Club kicked off their 2022 MLS Regular season with a 1-0 defeat to LA Galaxy.
Here’s Five Points from a tough afternoon in California, presented by Etihad Airways…
We’re Back
The 2021 MLS Season will go down in New York City FC history as the one in which the Club secured their first-ever MLS Cup trophy.
The offseason was comparatively shorter than previous years but to see NYCFC back in MLS action was an exciting experience. This group is determined to make the 2022 campaign an equally memorable one, and the beginning of that journey brought about a similar feeling of anticipation at what could be about to unfold.
Bright Start
Heading into Sunday’s game one of the first demands was to start the game brightly. NYCFC attacked the game from the first whistle and that produced early dividends in the form of Talles Magno’s chance after three minutes.
Smart work from Maxi Moralez in the channel allowed him to float a cross onto the Brazilian’s head, but he was unable to put his attempt either side of the goalkeeper. That energy was important in putting the Galaxy on the back foot and although it didn’t result in a goal on Sunday, if the team can consistently reproduce that level in the coming weeks and months; it will produce eventually.
Late Game Heartbreak
No one likes to lose games of soccer, especially when that pain comes after 90 minutes of hard work.
Ronny Deila said after he felt his side did enough to earn at least a point from Sunday’s game, and the stat sheet would back up those claims. The contest was an even match between two teams with aspirations to top their respective Conferences and that produced a game of fine margins. In the end, it was Javier Hernandez that proved decisive, but on another day, it could so easily have been the Boys in Blue that won the three points.
Vocal Backing
NYCFC have spent the start of the 2022 campaign on the road as they manage continental competition with domestic requirements in MLS.
Regardless of where in the world the team is one thing that has remained consistent is the sound of NYCFC fans cheering the boys on. Having that level of support has been tremendous for the players and staff and is something that is never taken for granted.
Once again, whether in LA or back home in New York, thank you for your support.
Keaton’s Back
Although last season had undoubted highs for NYCFC one of the more disappointing consequences was how things ended for Keaton Parks.
The talented midfielder suffered an unfortunate injury – a blood clot in his leg – that ended his campaign prematurely. His journey to comeback began in Concacaf Champions League, and continued on Sunday against the Galaxy. His composure in midfield and ability to connect the defense and attack was a major factor behind the team’s success last season and his return provided a feel good factor on a tough day.
