NYCFC forward Jack Harrison (11) controls the ball in an MLS game between NYCFC and DC United at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, N.Y., USA on Mar. 12, 2017. Photo: Ashley Marshall
This Saturday two offensive minded squads will battle it out and try to right the ship after losing two of there last three games. NYCFC’s hard attacking and possession offense will meet the explosive Columbus Crew and it promises to be a fun one. In their last 6 meetings an average of four or more goals decided the outcome.
Columbus is unbeaten in their last six home games and have outscored opponents 13-4 in this stretch while NYCFC average 5.6 shots on goal per game leading the league in this category. The teams rank first and second in passing accuracy. There will be goals scored by both sides in the fray.
NYC’s leading scorer, David Villa, has scored in his last three contests but has been battling illness this week. He is not doubtful to play but Patrick Vieira will need him at his best with Khiry Shelton and Ronald Matarrita still injured.
Vieira declared this week that Yangel Herrera was ready to start in the league. It will be interesting to see if Andrea Pirlo’s minutes continue to diminish with Herrera on the rise.
There is also the question of who will score the ugly goals for NYCFC. The team is sorely missing a scorer like Frank Lampard whose 12 goals last year came of nearly every part of his body.
Zach Steffen had a career high 5 saves for Columbus against the Red Bulls last week. He will need another big performance to turn away NYC’s potent attack. Will Trapp will also have to have a big game. he has completed 5,683 passes in his career and Columbus will rely on his accuracy and creativity on the ball.
Both teams can use a win on Saturday and the game should be a very fun one to watch. Columbus is a soccer town and the Crew are very good at home on a streak of 6 consecutive home wins. Can NYCFC start a streak themselves with back to back road wins? Only, time and 90 minutes will tell.
NYCFC
Columbus Crew
