It’s the international break and so we thought it was the perfect time to take a pause and a look back at the first 15 games of the MLS Season.
Over the next few days we’ll be asking members of NYCFC’s Digital Team for their picks for Player, Match, Goal and Moment of 2017 (so far).
We continue today with our choices for Match of the Season...
Milo Kowalski: Graphic Designer
Match: Orlando City 0-3 NYCFC
In keeping with the theme of road results this season, the 3-0 win against Orlando City showed a great deal of character and really showcased the style of soccer NYCFC aims to play.
Beautiful goals, sound defending, and high energy all 90 minutes against an emerging rival, ultimately dealing them the first loss in their new stadium.
Daniel Khudyak: Coordinator, Video
Match: NYCFC 2-1 Philadelphia
After a string of upsetting matches, nearly all of which should have gone our way (only if soccer were a fair game), we were about to face yet another confusing upset.
With Andre Blake playing the game of his life long enough for his side to take a lead, we only had 10 minutes to fight back.
Not only did we pull off the comeback victory with a season-loud crowd backing us, it was our center back duo that led us to the victory.
Alex Ring’s shot hit the post, David Villa’s attempt bounced off the crossbar, Sean Johnson pulled out a brilliant save to keep us in the game, and eventually Chanot and Callens scored a goal apiece off corners for a hard-earned yet well-deserved W.
Carter Daly: Social Media Manager
Match: NYCFC 4-0 DC United
After NYCFC’s home opener was sullied by a TFC comeback last season in a 2-2 draw – the boys in blue succeeded in making Game 1 in the Bronx this season a hot one despite below freezing temperatures.
Goals from new signings Rodney Wallace and Maxi Moralez added to a standard David Villa brace at home to defeat D.C. United 4-0. Yankee Stadium continues to be one of the toughest places to play in MLS thanks to the team on the field and the fans in the stands.
Mark Booth: Managing Editor
Match: Columbus Crew 2-3 NYCFC
Not for the first (or the last) time this season, NYCFC proved they could win in adverse circumstances when they traveled to the MAPFRE Stadium at the end of April.
Without David Villa against an in-form Columbus, Patrick Vieira’s side lost their early lead and went down 2-1 with 40 second half minutes to go.
However, the boys in blue would not be denied, producing a thrilling comeback inspired by Jack Harrison and Yangel Herrera who shared a goal apiece.
It was a victory which demonstrated character, resilience and squad depth.
Join us tomorrow when we compile our staff picks for favorite moment… in the meantime, let us know your game of the season so far on Twitter @NYCFC.
