Analysis of New York City FC's First Three Months: Highlights and Challenges
New York City FC Facing Tough Season
The MLS season is approaching its midway point, and New York City FC (NYCFC) find themselves in a challenging position. Currently sitting in fourth place in the Eastern Conference, NYCFC have a record of 4-5-6 and 18 points, tied for eighth out of 20 teams in goals scored.
David Villa, the MLS scoring leader with 10 goals, has been a consistent threat for NYCFC. He takes the majority of the team's shots, but a telling stat reveals that NYCFC have not won a game this season in which Villa failed to score.
NYCFC's defense, however, has been a cause for concern. They have allowed the most goals this season with 29. In an effort to address this issue, head coach Patrick Vieira has stated that the team needs to change something due to failing to convert opportunities.
R.J. Allen, a 26-year old left back, has registered his first career goal and two assists in eight games this season. His integration into the defense has been crucial, and he is seen as an integral part of NYCFC's current and future defense.
Another promising player for NYCFC is Jack Harrison, the top pick in the MLS SuperDraft. He made an immediate impact with a goal in his second game, and his energy and impact could make him a long-term fixture for NYCFC.
Steven Mendoza, with 23 attempts, has the second-most shots on the team. However, there is no new information regarding his shots on target or the team's performance when he fails to score.
NYCFC are currently on a four-game winless streak, and their last game against Orlando City SC ended in a draw due to surrendering an equalizer in the 94th minute. Despite these challenges, NYCFC lead MLS in shot attempts and rank third in shots on goal, indicating that they are creating opportunities, but struggling to convert them into wins.
