It was another packed night at Yankee Stadium dispute the freezing temperatures and snow.
NYCFC took to the pitch looking to secure its second win at home and extend its undefeated run. It was clear we had our work cut out for us even before the match started. Coach Kreis has some tough roster calls to make due to the absence of Nemec, Shelton, captain David Villa and a few others due to call ups, injuries, and suspensions. To fill these empty spots Kreis gave Kwame, Calle and Mullins their first starts. Tony Taylor, McNamara and Poku made their first appearances as substitutes.
SKC had yet to win a match this season and made it very apparent early on that they meant business.
They put the pedal down as soon as the match started and it was easy to see that NYCFC had a hard time keeping up. Matt Besler, known for his long throw ins was given the chance to show off those skills around the 12th minute. He took advantage of the situation and lofted a beautiful throw-in that Ike Opara headed in to find the back of the net. Graham Zusi and Jimmy Medranda both had shots from dangerous positions that went off target. SKC continued to control the pace until the half was over.
NYCFC fans had a some great reasons to get excited during the second half. The team began to obtain more meaningful possession and looked as though they would equalize at any moment. NYCFC continued to put on more and more pressure as the time was winding down. Both Brovsky and Grabavoy had chances to head in a goal during stoppage time but neither found the back of the net. Despite the increased pressure and a handful of chances in stoppage time the equalizer did not materialize.
It was a tough home loss on a frigid night to a very good opponent.
Coach Kreis and the players will have a lot to learn during the break before facing Philly Union on April 11th. This team has shown that when they are working together they can stand up to some of the best in the league. With some tweaks to the playing style and more time together this team will surely become a force to be reckoned with in the MLS.
As always, GO NYCFC and HAIL THE RAIL!
Article written by: Mike Brown
