ORLANDO, FL. – It was an Eastern Conference six-pointer clash, as Orlando City SC hosted New York City FC on Wednesday night. With goals from Chris “Cash” Mueller and Keaton Parks, goalkeeper Brian Rowe was able to hold on for a draw.
Brian Rowe, Orlando City Draw and Survive New York City FC
The game got off to a hot start with Andrés Perea hitting the side netting as Orlando played quickly in the opening minute. The Lions played out of the back throughout the game while NYCFC looked to counter.
Orlando deservedly took the lead on 18 minutes. Ruan cut inside to the touchline and crossed the ball to Chris Muelle who headed the ball unchallenged to score.
NYCFC tied the game just before halftime off some great passing. Victimizing Orlando playing out of the back, the passed through the backline. Valentín Castellanos found Parks who was denied by Brian Rowe, but buried the rebound.
Nani nearly beat goalkeeper Sean Johnson on a set piece but the keeper made the save. The Cityzens controlled play the next few minutes with Brian Rowe standing on his head at times. Castellanos had a great chance on a header off a corner.
Neither team could finish in the final half hour and the match ended 1-1.
5️⃣5️⃣ cleans up nice 👍 #NYCFC
⚽️ @keaton_parks pic.twitter.com/yna6MZ5DY8
— New York City FC (@NYCFC) October 15, 2020
Three Takeaways:
The kids keep scoring: It’s been a banner few months for young players in MLS. Mueller has risen to star status in this league. It was exciting to see him and Parks get the goals.
Playoff implications: This was a six-pointer with Orlando in front of NYC in the standings by four points. The visitors had the better of the play at times. Given it was a road game, they’ll probably take the point, but this could have been an invaluable 2-1 win.
City finding offense: NYCFC has found ways to create chances with Alexandru Mitriță loaned out recently and Heber not 90 minutes available.
