The season ended with a crushing defeat for New York City FC, as they just lost to the rival New York Red Bulls in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The first Hudson River Derby in MLS Cup Playoffs history finished a 0-2 victory for the visitors from Harrison, New Jersey.
New York City fell behind early in the first half through a wonderstrike from Red Bulls midfielder Felipe Carballo, then the visitors added a second from a corner kick, with Dante Vanzeir finding the net.
Matthew Mangam
Mark Radigan
NYCFC had the bulk of possession, 70.8% to be exact, took 25 shot attempts and put six on target while being credited with 2.8 expected goals (xG) by Opta, but never could find a goal to get back into the game.
• Alonso MartĂnez had a few good looks at goal but was unable to beat Carlos Coronel, the NYCFC striker credited with six shot attempts and two big chances missed.
• Was this the last time we see Maxi Moralez start for NYCFC? He put in a full 90 minute shift to no avail.
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FotMob had XG at 2.8 v 0.88 (um, in our favor). In that regard, the game was a fitting summary and epitaph of the season. Great to see Martinez progress as a striker, not so great to see nobody else could consistently step up. Two side notes: I enjoy seeing Ilenic play, still green but giving attacking options on the wing. I still hate to see Chapman anywhere on the field. Loses control of games too early and too easily.
Agreed about Martinez. I also think Haak did a nice job stepping up late in the season. He has grown as a player.