New York City FC continued adding to an Eastern Conference leading point total in Frisco, Texas last evening. The City Boys remain in first place, now with 58 points total through 31 matches in Season 5.
Here’s how it happened…
ICYMI…
… And we really couldn’t blame you, if you did.
It took only 39 seconds for NYCFC to find the opener, controlling possession from the first-kick, and immediately applying the pressure resulting in a deliciously whipped in cross from Anton Tinnerholm that was smashed home by City’s striker sensation Taty Castellanos before the clock struck 1.
Check it:
📽️ #ICYMI 👀 @tatycaste11anos ⬇️ #NYCFCpic.twitter.com/DoqJBLd6b0
— New York City FC (@NYCFC) September 23, 2019
Battle Wounds
Sunday evening presented a tough tie in the Texas heat that included seven minutes of stoppage time for both halves, a couple of hydration breaks, and some VAR checks as well or good measure.
After City’s hot start, the game slowed down and became a bit more chippy.
Anton Tinerholm was substituted out 23 minutes in after a collision, but seems to be feeling better this morning.
As the match wore on, it became common place for players on both sides to need medical attention following the unending slew of 50/50 challenges.
Home Parks
Another player forced off injured was Keaton, who was celebrating a homecoming of sorts, playing his first professional match in front of friends and family just a few miles from where he grew up.
The midfielder gave everything, and he hadn’t ruled himself out for Wednesday night’s return to Yankee Stadium when speaking to the media after the game.
"We definitely don't feel like we played our best game today. We have a lot to improve on going into our game on Wednesday." - @keaton_parks
— New York City FC (@NYCFC) September 23, 2019
🎙️ POST-GAME ⬇️ #NYCFCpic.twitter.com/e2CxzX8wUg
Homeward Bound
Attentions quickly turn to Atlanta United who come into The Bronx nipping at NYC’s heels from second place.
The boys are clearly excited to get back to the East Coast as MLS Cup Playoffs season is approaching…
A victory over the 5-stripes at Yankee Stadium will go a long way to securing first place in the East, a home run into MLS Cup, and a first-ever CONCACAF Champions League berth for New York City’s Football Club.
Wednesday Night
Before the weekend matches were even over, MLS pundits across the interwebs and tv waves were already hyping up the clash of Eastern Conference titans in The Bronx to come.
It was already one of the most anticipated matches of the season, but the 1 vs. 2 league positions, coupled with the new MLS Cup Playoffs format, should fire this fixture to new heights.
Don’t miss it. Pull up #ForTheCity.
