New York City FC vs DC United: Three Key Takeaways

On March 12th, New York City FC hosted DC United in a high scoring victory for the home team. Here’s a short breakdown of the three things we learned.

In their first home game, New York City FC had a lot to prove after a disappointing draw against Orlando, utilizing its incredible attacking firepower against a weakened DC United in a 4-0 win. Here are three important takeaways from the game:

1. David Villa is not slowing down this season

Scoring two goals with the captain’s arm band, David Villa showed incredible skill at creating, manipulating, and taking advantage of space. With clinical finishing, the World Cup winner maintained unreal composure in tight spots to score against USMNT defender Steve Birnbaum and standout MLS goalie Bill Hamid. With a great midfield behind him and quick wingers, David Villa is poised for another contestable MVP season.

Mar 12, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York City FC midfielder Maximiliano Moralez (10) takes a shot against the D.C. United during the first half at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

2. Maxi Moralez may be a missing piece for NYCFC

A team with a glut of attacking options, Maxi Moralez brought flair, calm, and creativity to NYCFC’s midfield, as he did well to deliver balls throughout the field for assists and scored a goal of his own.

While NYCFC still has question marks in its defense, knowing that Moralez can hold on to the ball and move it forward will create a boost of confidence for this team moving forward. As chemistry within NYCFC continues to grow, Moralez may be looked at as an underrated acquisition, though it’s still quite early in the season to make such a call with confidence.

Mar 4, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; D.C. United midfielder Marcelo Sarvas (7) controls the ball as Sporting Kansas City midfielder Roger Espinoza (27) defends during the second half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

3. DC United’s Midfield is still a disaster

Yes, another week without playmaker Luciano Acosta hurts DC United’s cohesive and attacking midfield, but poor performances from Sarvas and Jeffrey hurt this team more than the loss of Acosta. Bad passes, an inability to hold the ball for long, and limited creativity meant that DC was dominated in the midfield, and any good play for this team came from the wings.

Next: All Goals From Week 2

Ian Harkes gets a pass for a less than spectacular debut as a rookie, but he had as many moments of good play as he did giveaways. Fans can only hope that Durkin is given a chance at defensive midfield soon, and that other players like Buescher or Vincent are given more minutes until Acosta returns.