Kaka and Orlando City SC did just enough to knock off NYCFC in their 2017 home opener (photo credit: Alex Menendez/Getty Images North America-Zimbio)
Even in victory, it was a tough night for Jason Kreis and Orlando City. Even in defeat, New York City Football Club played well. The best thing about the night for both teams was how beautiful the new stadium was.
Ten minutes into the game Orlando City’s star, Kaka, pulled up lame with a hamstring injury, and then in the second half goal scorer Cyle Larin had to be taken off as well. Orlando held on to a 1-0 victory and have to consider themselves lucky to get out of their home opener with all three points. They won ugly, but they won.
NYCFC dominated possession the entire game and Joe Bendik’s wonderful work in goal was the only thing that stood in their way. NYCFC created a ton of chances with their retooled offense but none of them found the back of the net.
Patrick Vieira stood by they was his team played after the game saying NYCFC was “by far the better team.” He was right, they were better in every spot on the field except goal scoring. That will come. Alexander Ring and Jack Harrison both were denied sure goals by Bendik’s wonderful saves. NYCFC’s midfield played well and looked dangerous. The substitutes Vieira used in the second half came on and made an impact. Just nothing found the back of the net.
Oddly,after the game, NYCFC fans should be excited about the home opener next week at Yankee Stadium. The goals will come. It promises to be a blast.
Unfortunately, the game and the brand new stadium was marred by vandalism and violence. One NYCFC fan tried to steal a stadium seat and there was a clash with police after the game. There is no place or excuse for this kind of thing in MLS. None. It blights the name of the game and will only make it harder for NYCFC fans to get that brand new stadium they desire. What neighborhood is going to want a new stadium where the fans get into fights with police after a game? Please, it is great to be a passionate fan, but don’t be a stupid one.
NYCFC
Orlando City
