By Ruadhan McKeone
NYCFC came into this matchup fresh off a midweek victory against CF Montréal and were eager to secure another three points against their Canadian opposition. Meanwhile, Vancouver arrived with confidence after defeating Chicago Fire on Wednesday, maintaining 5th place in the Western Conference. Coach Nick Cushing made minor adjustments to his lineup, introducing Santiago Rodríguez into the starting eleven in place of Richy Ledezma. Additionally, JamesSands, returned to the squad off the back of an injury. The action kicked off with NYCFC displaying their attacking intent within the first five minutes. Santiago Rodríguez had the first opportunity of the game but was unable to beat the Vancouver goalkeeper. New York continued to dominate possession and attempted to exploit gaps in the Whitecaps' defense. Vancouver earned a free-kick opportunity in the 14th minute, which Ryan Gauld failed to convert. The most significant chance of the first half came afterMaxi Moralez delivered a cross to Andres Jasson, who, unfortunately, sent the ball high over the crossbar. Moralez had another go at goal shortly before the half-time whistle, but Yohei Takahoka confidently made the save. As the second half began, NYCFC made a change, bringing in James Sands for Keaton Parks. It didn't take long for New York to break the deadlock with a brilliant counter-attack. James Sands initiated the play, releasing Rodríguez, whose excellently placed pass split the Vancouver defense, allowing Monsef Bakrar to collect the ball and slot it into the net. However chaos ensued shortly thereafter as Vancouver were awarded a penalty after a James Sands foul which Ryan Gauld calmly converted to level the score. In the game’s final moments, Vancouver had a breakaway, and substitute Sergio Cordova found himself one-on-one with Matt Freese. However, birthday boy Freese pulled off a confident save to deny the forward. Despite their best efforts, NYCFC couldn't find the decisive second goal and had to settle for a hard-fought point in an entertaining contest at Yankee Stadium. The final score: NYCFC 1, Vancouver Whitecaps 1.
Contributed by Ruadhan McKeone