NYCFC Seek Offensive Identity Following Life After Villa.

By Carlos De Jesus IV

NYCFC came up lame in a 0-0 homecoming draw, possibly indicating what is to come this season in terms of offensive output. A lack of teeth in attack was evident in only their second game of the season, but the front-office staff hard at work in Yankee Stadium has not quit on bringing more bite to the Bronx.

“We need a special player when we have to finish the action” said coach Dome Torrent “everybody knows we need scoring players, because if you are able to win chances, after that the result is about them. I am very happy with the people who work on our team about that.”

Creating chances has not been a problem for the Blues for some time, with new Captain Alex Ring leading a fluid mid-field that has carried over their rhythm from last year. “Our first fifteen minutes were too soft” Ring said “but in the end I thought we could have deserved more.”

 New York City midfielder Valentin Castellanos (11) battles for the ball against D.C. United defender Joseph Mora (28) during the first half at Yankee Stadium. Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Despite their gnawing inability to finish, there were bright spots for the Blues under the dreary Bronx weather, in what was ultimately a dreary game of soccer. Homegrown newcomer James Sands showed his own sand and grit with a mature performance, the 18-year old clearly gripping the trust of the manager.

I think [Torrent] has always believed in me.” Sands said “Definitely this year I’ve felt more ready and he’s seen me as more ready to play. Physically I’m able to cope more [professionally].”

23-year old Romanian newcomer Alexandru Mitrita continues to show signs of spice and life for the Pigeons, absolutely burdening D.C. right back Leonardo Jara along the left wing. Despite not scoring a goal on his debut, he looked at home at the stadium in the Bronx.

“It was a good game for me and for the team.” Mitrita said “we wanted to win our first game at home but step by step comes the victories.”

 D.C. United forward Paul Arriola (7) and New York City FC defender Alexander Callens (6) fight for the ball during the first half at Yankee Stadium. Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The reboot in the Bronx is underway, and despite the talent, a striker is needed. NYCFC losing their leading scorer for the last four years in David Villa does not help things. And for all his effort, Maximiliano Moralez at the tip of the spear will not suffice“It is not easy to replace a player like David Villa” Torrent said “I expect in three or four days we will find the right striker because everybody knows we need something in our forwards, David normally scored 19 or 20 goals.”

Until then, the new look NYCFC continues its search for a new identity.

 

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