NEW YORK | Maria Molano stood near the Yankee Stadium security gate all smiles. The clouds and blistering winds might have blown her hair around, but the smile was never swept from her face.
Molano, from Westchester County, was honored as New York City FC’s first fan on Sunday afternoon.
Certainly another reason to smile.
“I am super excited because David Villa is my favorite player,” said Molano, who was decked out in the New York City FC away jersey, navy hat and not one, but two Club scarves. “I’ve been following him since Spain won the World Cup in 2010. I’m a big fan.”
Molano said she and her father arrived in the Bronx around 1:30 p.m., grabbed some coffee and got in line at 2. Gates opened an hour later.
While she plans on returning to Yankee Stadium throughout the season, Molano may get a more convenient taste of New York City FC.
“I go to SUNY Purchase and that’s where the team trains,” she said. “It’s been surreal. I’m very excited for the team and I wish them the best. I can’t wait to come back here.”
After Molano and thousands of other fans flocked into the iconic Yankee Stadium, many headed toward the team stores to purchase New York City FC apparel.
Pedro Toledo and his son, Nicholas, bought Club scarves.
“I work in the Bronx and I grew up in the Bronx,” Pedro said. “I’m excited. This is great.”
Added Nicholas: “I can’t wait to see the first home game. It’s amazing.”
The season ticket holders from Westchester lined up outside Yankee Stadium at 2:30 to be some of the first fans inside.
Pedro, who wore a matching jersey with his son, said they wanted to arrive in time so they didn’t miss out on any pre-match moments.
“We wanted to come early to take advantage of all the different events and things before the game,” he said. “It’s a historic event, especially being at Yankee Stadium.”
Maria and her father, Pedro and Nicholas and 43,503 other fans witnessed history as New York City FC beat New England 2-0 for the Club’s first-ever victory.
Captain and first-ever signee David Villa netted New York City FC’s first goal at Yankee Stadium in the 19th minute, sending the crowd into an uproar.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better result against a very good team and better support from our crowd,” head coach Jason Kreis said. “So many positive signs about the direction our league is headed in; it’s fantastic.”
Patrick Mullins, who scored the match’s second goal in the 84th minute to seal the three points, was equally as impressed with the crowd for New York City FC’s first-ever home match.
“It’s really special for us, not just for them showing up, but also for how they participated and cheered,” said the former Revolution striker. “The atmosphere felt right Sunday. It felt like there was somebody behind us on the pitch pushing us forward. That was the great support we had from the fans all night.”
