New York City FC Vs Minnesota United: Player ratings – Sean Johnson howler
Defense
CB – Maxime Chanot – 6.5
New York City FC played with three center-backs in the first half, before returning to their standard back four in the second half. Maxime Chanot was unbothered by the change of shape. He was one of the reasons Minnesota United struggled to threaten NYCFC’s goal.
Chanot did not have a tackle in the match and had just a single interception. So, he was not able to play the part of ball-winner against MNUFC. However, he was very effective at snuffing out attacks in the box, denying goal-scoring opportunities. Chanot had a game-high seven clearances and three blocked shots.
New York City FC rely on their center-backs to distribute the ball. Chanot played a smaller part in this aspect than he typically does, allowing James Sands to get more touches on the ball. Sands played more than 20 more passes than Chanot did this match.
CB – James Sands – 7.5
James Sands made his first start at center-back this season and was very effective there. Sands began the match playing in the center of a back three, acting as the fulcrum of New York City’s attack and playing a big part in the distribution of the ball. Sands completed four of his five long pass attempts and completed 93.1% of his passes overall.
Sands looked comfortable on the backline and played a free role, defending between Chanot and Tony Rocha. The youngster had three tackles in the match, two interceptions, and four clearances. There is some debate as to where Sands will ultimately end up: central midfield or center-back. For now, he is well suited as a starting holding midfielder. However, he should be the third-choice center back for the time being and could continue to start there if Alexander Callens misses more time.
CB – Tony Rocha – 4
Tony Rocha received his first start of the season in Minnesota, playing in just his second match. Unfortunately for him, he was yanked from the line-up at half-time and will not likely receive another start soon. He struggled greatly, playing on the left side of New York City FC’s back three. Left wing-back, Ronald Matarrita, is very attack-minded. He is in the line-up to get forward and provide width in the attack. That leaves Rocha with a significant responsibility at the back, and he was not up for it. Minnesota United FC consistently found space in his area and exploited it.
Taylor Twellman pointed out during the broadcast that Ben Sweat may have been a better choice for Rocha’s role. He is correct. Sweat is a defensive-minded left-back who would have slotted in well between Sands and Matarrita. He has the experience and range to provide cover in that position. Rocha, meanwhile, had just two interceptions and a clearance to show for his defensive efforts.
Rocha was not asked to play a role in the attack, or even to possess the ball and distribute. Alexandru Mitrita came on for Rocha to start the second half, as New York City FC reverted to a back four. The substitution summed up his performance.