By Juan Carlos Maygua
It was all or nothing for NYCFC against D.C. United. They both decided on a playoff spot with only four games left in the regular season. The Bronx was set for a fixture that showcased two teams in need of a positive result. But not even the most optimistic of fans was expecting the events that unfolded when the whistle blew.
One for the books
The tie against Atlanta United gave NYCFC an incentive to face the remaining games without much pressure. The point had ended a long streak without scoring, but many believed that the team wouldn’t be able to build up collectively after struggling in previous matches. NYCFC took the initiative from the moment the starting whistle blew, so much that Thiago Andrade opened the score within the first minute of play. An unexpected start, but it was something the team needed in such a crucial game. From that point on the team managed to identify the areas where they created more danger. High pressure in the midfield and quick distributions on the wings forced D.C United to give up the ball on multiple opportunities.
The second goal was a result of that pressure. DC United’s goalkeeper made a bad clearance, allowing Castellanos to chip the ball over him. It all seems to be clicking for the team, two goals in six minutes were impressive. But the third goal showed that some teams have bad games. An unfortunate slip in defense left Castellanos one on one with the goalkeeper, capitalizing on the opportunity and scoring his 15th goal of the season. NYCFC closed the first half with a follow-up goal by Maxi Moralez, after a failed bicycle kick attempt by Castellanos. With four goals, the game was set for NYCFC, or so we thought.
The second half started similarly, but the Boys in Blue wanted more goals and came close to scoring. Unfortunately, Andrade misplaced his shot. However, something that changed was the approach towards building plays. The fifth goal was a product from a set-piece, defender Alexander Callens header the ball inside the net. The Peruvian timed the cross perfectly, allowing him to score his first goal of the season and NYCFC’s 5th goal in the game. It also confirmed the positive momentum that Callens is going through for both club and country. D.C. United did manage to create dangerous chances, but Sean Johnson made two key saves to keep a clean sheet. Having a solid advantage and complete control of the game, head coach Ronny Deila gave Castellanos, Maxi, and Callens a chance to rest. In return, Heber, Jesus Medina, and Talles Magno saw some minutes. The team continued to create opportunities despite the substitutions. The match was decided in the 74th minute after Jesus Medina scored with a shot outside the box. Heber could have scored the 7th goal of the match in the last play, but the goalkeeper made a great save.
It was a perfect night in the Bronx. Three points and a victory placed NYCFC in 5th place in the eastern conference. With three games left to play in the regular season, the goal difference factor could favor NYCFC. They still have to face Chicago FC on Wednesday, so the task is far from over. As a final note, the 6-0 victory was a franchise landmark. It was the first time the team scored six goals in a game, making the win more meaningful than it already was.