Here are Three Things We Learned from the New York City FC's Week 9 match against the Seattle Sounders.
1. We have fantastic fans
The scene has remained the same -- win, lose or draw -- New York City FC fans support their Club. On Sunday, 25,384 fans kept Yankee Stadium electric throughout the match.
After every New York City FC home match at Yankee Stadium, fans clad in city blue take to the streets. River Avenue becomes flooded with drums, chanting, balloons and streamers.
The atmosphere inside the stadium is equally as impressive throughout matches.
New York City FC players and coaches certainly appreciate the support.
"I am very happy with the fan response we have here in all of our games," Kreis said. "We have built a fantastic fan base already, but I think these fans deserve a little bit more. Hopefully they will stay patient and we continue to improve."
BEST OF #NYCFC Supporters
2. This is a building process
Success takes time. While New York City FC don't have the record they've hoped for nine weeks into their inaugural season in Major League Soccer, the Club's players and coaches know the hard work will pay dividends.
Play on the field has improved and it's only a matter of time before they translate into victories.
“It’s definitely a test because it’s easy to play when you’re winning," midfielder Mehdi Ballouchy said. "It’s important that we stay together and we stay positive and work hard. For the next game, that’s all we can do.”
3. The Club has depth
New York City FC welcomed back players who had missed previous matches due to injury or suspension. The Club was boosted by the return of goalie Josh Saunders, defender Shay Facey and forward David Villa.
While that trio returned to the side, head coach Jason Kreis also flexed New York City FC's depth, giving a first-career start to midfielder Pablo Alvarez and called upon defender RJ Allen, who signed with the Club this past week.
Alvarez played the entire match, while Allen came on for Facey in the 70th minute.
"I started training on Tuesday," Allen said. "So, I was here Tuesday, Wednesday through Saturday, and then game tonight. It’s been a crazy week.”
