Starting XI

GK: Sean Johnson

Grade: B-

Despite the clean sheet, SeanJohn didn’t have much to do apart from getting into a scuffle with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The defense in front of him did most of the heavy lifting. Still, not a bad outing even if he got away with it once or twice.

RCB: Maxime Chanot

Grade: A+

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The LA Galaxy being put on tilt is very much due in part to the Luxembourg defender. Chanot was consistently snuffing out attacks with his magnet-like marking and track-backs. This is probably the best performance we’ve seen from Max in quite a bit.

CB: James Sands

Grade: B+

In comparison to past outings, the Sandman wasn’t as prevalent on the back line as we’ve become accustomed to seeing. However, the 18-year-old HGP was as good as ever whenever he needed to make a play. Good stuff, kid!

LCB: Alexander Callens

Grade: A

Not unlike Chanot, Callens was an absolute pest on defence this game. The Peruvian continues to impress when it comes to his tackling and his ability with the ball at his feet. And there’s little doubt that he, along with the two bruisers next to him, have turned New York City FC into a defensive powerhouse over the past few weeks.

RM: Anton Tinnerholm

Grade: A-

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The wingback faced off against fellow Swede Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Saturday and was the better of the two on the pitch. That’s quite a day at the office. Tinnerholm was a constant presence on the offensive side of ball and played a role in both of NYCFC’s goals. The 3-4-3 has been a source of resurgence for Tinnerholm and his contributions to this point within this new framework have been paramount.

LM: Ronald Matarrita

Grade: B+

Mata’s performance might not have been as been outwardly awesome as Tinnerholm’s, but it was still a masterclass in both getting involved in the attack and tracking back to help out on defense. The Costa Rican’s return from injury is sure to be a sigh of relief for NYCFC fans moving forward.

RCM: Alexander Ring

Grade: A

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4 tackles, an impressive 82% passing percentage and a constant source of brilliant service to the attack, the Ringmaster had a quietly brilliant game in La-La-Land. Since he has returned to the defensive side of the midfield, Ring has been an invaluable cog in City’s ever-growing midfield machine.

LCM: Tony Rocha

Grade: B-

In stark contrast to his previous performances with NYCFC, Rocha was damn solid on Saturday. I still believe City should be looking towards guys like Keaton Parks when Ebenezor Ofori is unavailable. Still, there was nothing wrong with this outing and it helps to know that we have depth.

RW: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi

Grade: B-

We’ve seen better from the Libyan in the past. But all things considered, ITS had a good game and was impressive as always dribbling the ball looking for outlets.

LW: Maxi Moralez

Grade: A

Do you love a redemption story? Well, if you do, look no further than Maxi’s outing this weekend. After weeks and weeks of frustration and criticism, the NYCFC playmaker finally bagged a penalty goal and was a constant source of distribution all game long. This is the Maxi that we want and need.

ST: Héber

Grade: A-

This guy is the real deal! Since Héber has joined NYCFC, the team has been unbeaten and the Brazilian is a big part of that. His goal late in the first half against the Galaxy proved to be the only tally that the Blues needed, and it was his brilliant opportunism that made it possible.