New York City FC settled for a 1-1 home draw on Saturday afternoon. A Jesus Medina goal in the 52nd minute proved the difference for NYCFC and has the hosts now unbeaten in their last four games.
It wasn’t always a pretty match for New York City FC, who at times looked a little disjointed in their build-up play. But NYCFC did produce a decent amount of chances and opportunities as they once again held a clear edge in possession (58.8 percent).
New York City FC also had a decided edge in shots (13:7) and shots on goal (6:3) in the tie.
“I think we had a good game. I think the defense was very solid. They only created one goal chance against us. It was an even game, very tight,” New York City FC head coach Ronny Deila said after the match.
“Two good teams. We get one-nil up and we had good control of the game at that time and I think we controlled it for 90 minutes. But then of course we get robbed by the ref, that’s for sure. I can’t understand it. The one thing I have to say positive to him— he’s humble. “I did a mistake.” Ok, but it doesn’t give us two points more. For me, I’m proud of the boys. I think they really work hard. We are disciplined. We have a lot of changes in the team. Players are coming on and doing a good job. We need everybody and that togetherness, I’m really, really happy for them and the team spirit. Unbelievable.
“I’m very sad and feel sorry for the boys as well because they didn’t get three points today. Having said that, we haven’t lost in four games. Just keep on working, keep on going. Take the positive from the game and try to improve different parts of it.”
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New York City FC is now 2-1-2 (8 points) on the season. The draw puts Toronto FC at 1-2-2 (5 points).
At times in the match, NYCFC had a hard time with Yeferson Soltado, the newly signed wide player they have brought into their squad this month. In his first start with Toronto FC, Soltado looked understandably uncomfortable at times with his new teammates.
But then there were good moments, including in the 11th minute when he took on three NYCFC defenders, cut in from the left flank across the 18-yard box and forced goalkeeper Sean Johnson into a diving save to his left.
“There was definitely a big possibility he would play out on the left, so it’s definitely something I looked at before. The idea was to try and contain him,” Andres Jasson said after the match.
“In the first half a couple times I got a little too close and he was able to go down the line or cut in, in the second half I did a better job of keeping him a little farther, forcing him to make a move, and not diving in.”
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