New York City FC displayed a ruthlessness that was lacking against Orlando City SC when they played D.C. United. That was evident in the scoreline as they won 4-0. Even though D.C. United attempted more shots, they weren’t able to put many on target. Also, NYCFC had a suffocating hold on the midfield, which helped them create more effective chances. In addition, RJ Allen was dropped from the matchday 18, and replaced in the starting lineup by Ethan White. (All statistics from WhoScored unless noted)
Sean Johnson
Johnson continued his run of good from with another strong outing in goal this week. He was more involved in the passing game, but was a little less accurate. Johnson attempted 54 passes with 74% accuracy, and 24 long balls with 50% accuracy. There wasn’t much he did wrong. He needs to continue putting in performances like this.
Ronald Matarrita
Matarrita made a significant improvement from last game to this one. Defensively, he made no big errors and had 11 defensive actions (six tackles, three interceptions, two clearances). Offensively, he attempted two crosses with 50% accuracy and attempted 11 long balls with 45% accuracy. Finally, he was a little better in his distribution, attempting 65 passes with 80% accuracy.
Alexander Callens
Callens had another quiet, but strong, performance against D.C. United. He made seven defensive actions (two tackles, four interceptions, one clearance), but only fouled DCU once. He continued to shine distributing the ball 79 passes and 86% accuracy. Callens played a long ball 17 times with 65% accuracy. Overall, another solid performance from the new signing.
Maxime Chanot
Chanot matched up with Patrick Mullins and was victorious. He had 11 defensive actions (one tackle, four interceptions, six clearances), won three aerial duels, and chipped in one shot. Chanot improved his distribution with 72 passes for 86% accuracy. However, when playing the ball long he made five attempts and was successful zero times. If there is one area Chanot could improve, it would be playing the ball long and instead finding Pirlo or Moralez making runs back to the ball.
Ethan White
Ethan White provided a stronger defensive presence, but a weaker offensive presence, as he filled in for RJ Allen. He had five defensive actions (one tackle, two interceptions, two clearances) and won four aerial duels, but had only 66% passing accuracy. However, NYCFC could afford to sacrifice Allen’s offense because there are so many other play makers on the pitch.
Maximiliano Morález
Moralez showed why NYCFC brought him in as their third Designated Player in this game. He notched one goal on two shots and one assist on two key passes. However, Moralez wasn’t as sharp in distribution. He attempted 59 passes with 80% accuracy, three crosses with 33% accuracy, and five long balls with 40% accuracy. Moralez also pitched in three defensive actions (two tackles, one interception). He will certainly fill the hole left by Frank Lampard if he could keep this level of play up. Here is his goal:
Another Look: @mmoralezoficial with his first #NYCFC goal! pic.twitter.com/m1IZQx3FU6
— New York City Football Club (@NYCFC) March 12, 2017
Alexander Ring
D.C. United didn’t have much success going forward. When they did, Ring was there to snuff it out. He made 10 defensive actions (six tackles, two interceptions, two clearances), committed five fouls, and won one aerial duel. Ring was involved in distribution more compared to last game, with 57 passes for 77%. However, he was unable to connect with anyone on his long balls or crosses. Improving these passes will make Ring a very dangerous two way player.
Andrea Pirlo
Pirlo continued to be the heart of the midfield and dictate the tempo of NYCFC’s offense. He attempted 66 passes with 85% accuracy, three crosses with 0% accuracy, and seven long balls, with 71% accuracy. Offensively, Pirlo had one shot, which was on target, and drew two fouls.
Jack Harrison
Harrison had a improved game this week. His lone shot bounced off the crossbar, allowing Rodney Wallace to coolly slide the rebound past Bill Hamid.. He also beat four players on the dribble but still didn’t complete any accurate crosses. He was more active in distribution with 34 passes for 79% accuracy. Still, Harrison needs to be more ruthless with his crosses in order to better set up his teammates.
David Villa
Villa returned to his ruthless MVP form with two goals on three shots and an assist on two key passes. He also held the ball up well, drawing five fouls. Defensively, Villa completed two defensive actions (one interception, one clearance). However, his passing was a little off. He completed 67% of his 27 passes.. Still, a much better performance from last week.
Have yourself a day, @Guaje7Villa #NYCFC pic.twitter.com/sFVYZeyI94
— New York City Football Club (@NYCFC) March 12, 2017
Rodney Wallace
Wallace showed some of his tricks, with a nifty scissor kick.
Scores first #NYCFC goal, celebrates like a pro @rodwallace22 🔥⚽️ pic.twitter.com/ZaG46cXpO6
— New York City Football Club (@NYCFC) March 12, 2017
Wallace had a more complete game overall. He had one assist on two key passes and scored a goal with his lone shot. Defensively, Wallace contributed one tackle and one clearance. In distribution, Wallace contributed an accurate cross and 81% passing accuracy on 26 attempts. This game was a step up for Wallace and just a glimpse of what he can contribute.
