Five Things: Back on Track

Milestone Moments

He did it again.

Since David Villa signed up as the first player and captain in New York City Football Club history, he’s always come through, and last night was no different.

Not only did he celebrate yet another career milestone with the Bronx faithful, but he did it in a meaningful way, pressing all night, scoring two goals and creating another to help NYCFC earn a first-ever win over one of Major League Soccer’s strongest modern teams – FC Dallas.

As David said in his post-game media availability – his current favorite goal is still the Champions League final cracker for Barcelona against Manchester United, “… but I hope the best is coming. Why not to give the silverware to NYCFC this year?”. Sounds good…

WATCH:#Villa400: David's Locker Room Speech

Bronx Bounce Back

It’s become a regular occurrence under Patrick Vieira’s direction - bouncing back with a strong team performance after struggling the week prior. This one was textbook Bounce Back Blues, as Vieira switched up the game plan and challenged his players to react. Boy did they…

Jesus Medina’s first Yankee Stadium goal featured the beautiful build-up play we’ve come to expect of NYCFC – yet over the course of the 90 minutes City played 50% more long balls than usual. They had 62% passing in the attacking half – the lowest of the season – and they dominated. Handing one of the best team’s in MLS their first loss of the season and regaining first place in Supporters Shield standings.

Next Man Up

It’s been a mantra all year – and it proved true again last evening.

Maxime Chanot missed out on the 18 due to a personal matter, and in stepped Sebastian Ibeagha, who Patrick Vieira said: “… played like he’s been with us for the last three years.”

It’s that kind of character which Vieira preaches over and over is the sign of the strongest teams, the ability for any player on the roster to step in and make a positive impact.

Who’s got next? Only time will tell… but every player knows it could be them and is relishing the opportunity.

Derby Ready

And just like that, it’s time for the first Hudson River Derby of 2018!

The Boys in Blue will cross the river to take on RBNY at Red Bull Arena on Saturday, May 5 at 2:00PM ET.

City won for the first time at Red Bull Arena last season, and also won the Hudson River Derby series for the first time as well, after winning two and drawing once.

Can NYCFC make it two in a row?

As David Villa said in his post-match speech in the locker room – “we need to go there to win again…”