The 2022 MLS season has reached its conclusion for New York City Football Club, following Sunday's defeat in the 2022 Eastern Conference Final.
Here are Five Points from the clash against Philadelphia Union…
A Feisty Contest
A Final full of fire, passion and drama, it was very much a worthy and entertaining contest between the two sides but ultimately, not the desired result for City.
From the off, the desire and determination shone through and the Boys in Blue gave their all until the final whistle, weathering the first-half storm of Union pressure and forcing ourselves in front with a moment of magic. We just couldn't hang on.
Against a side that had not lost at home all year, it was always going to be a tough ask but City did all they could to defend the trophy, showcasing the battling qualities that had turned our season around to ignite our playoff push.
As Captain Sean Johnson reflected in the aftermath, the team should be proud of their efforts.
"Hats off to Philadelphia," he said. "They played a fantastic game and come back from one down, and they had a fantastic year so take nothing away from them.
"It's been a season of good moments, bad moments; winning cups and losing out on some Championships but ultimately, proud of the guys, proud of the group for how we handled everything. It was wasn't easy with some of the adjustments and changes that we had, so proud of the guys and how we grinded through the year.
"We played a lot of games and had a lot of successes. Ultimately, we're disappointed to go out on this note, but again, I'm happy with the guys and how they approached this year.
"Things didn't go our way but we made some positive adjustments and to be in an Eastern Conference Final two years in a row, that's where this Club needs to be, and that's where we strive to be every single year - that's the expectation. In a year like this, it's easy to look back on all the moments but ultimately, it's testament to the group and how everybody works.
"To this point isn't isn't something we take for granted but we'll be looking to make sure that the Club is always in this position where we can go forward and win a cup. So it's a tough one to go out on this note, but there's something to be said about this team."
Poetry In Motion
Another game, another sensational City goal.
The Boys in Blue broke the deadlock with another incisive passing move, once again turning defense into attack with delightful, free-flowing, attacking football.
The speed and precision of the play unlocked the Union defense – no easy feat given they had conceded the fewest goals of any team in the MLS regular season – and Maxi Moralez applied the perfect finish, drilling low past Andre Blake into the bottom corner to continue his superb scoring streak.
It was a glorious goal – the celebrations said it all – and yet another example of beautifully-crafted build-up play: a quality which has quickly become a trademark of this team.
Another special moment to add to the collection.
Turning Point
One of the things we love most about the beautiful game is its unpredictability.
Anything can happen at any time, and the outcome games (and even entire seasons) can be determined by a single moment: a goal, a save, a tackle; even a single word of encouragement…
In this case, it would be a save.
With City a goal to the good and pushing for another, Cushing’s side were well on top, and came agonizingly close to doubling the lead just two minutes after opening the scoring – only to be denied by a remarkable stop from Blake.
When Alex Callens leapt to meet Kevin O’Toole’s inch-perfect delivery, there looked to be only one outcome but the Union ‘keeper produced his very best to block the header – and ultimately turn the game in his side's favor.
Inspired and having heeded our warning, the home side rallied to fight back for the win – further evidence that soccer is defined by the finest of margins.
Together
As another chapter of our journey comes to a close, it is a fitting time to express gratitude and appreciation to our wonderful fanbase.
Our loyal City supporters have been with us every step of the way, traveling wherever needed to turn out and show support for our Boys in Blue.
Win, lose or draw, the fans have been there behind the squad, driving them on when the players have needed it most, and making the celebratory moments all the more special.
That backing and belief can never be underestimated, and Cushing and the team have spoken throughout the campaign of the difference it makes to the team, the importance it holds for this Club...
The City Family.
Thank you.
Bright Beginnings
It’s been another unforgettable year for New York City Football Club: a year of change, and challenge but ultimately, triumph.
The team have endured so much together with plenty of lessons learned and memorable moments to savor.
From nine-goal thrillers to dramatic late winners, changes in personnel to chances for youngsters, injury troubles to trophy-lift highs, the squad have experienced it all.
Pulling together, playing their part and always prioritizing the needs of the team, and celebrating the successes as one, the players, staff, and fans have come out stronger for the experience and should be immensely proud that they were able to overcome such adversities to finish the season so strongly.
The future is bright for the Boys in Blue…
Roll on 2023.
