2020 Board Election Results

Thank you to everyone that took the time to read about the candidates and vote. Thank you to all of our candidates for stepping up and offering to give back to this organization.

2020 Election Winners:
Vice President - Danny Chediak
Secretary - Stephanie Plaut
Board Member - Ray Kingsbury
Board Member - Allison Michelle Whitney
Board Member - Justin SE Bulova (1-year term)

Congratulations to all of our winners and new Board members.

A few people reached out to us about wanting to get more involved in The Third Rail and potentially running for the our Board. Next year we want to get as many people as we can involved in the org, taking on responsibility, and working with others to keep the org running and growing. Board position or not, we want this to be an org run by a broad base of volunteers, not just Board members. We started a push on committees in 2019 and will be looking to expand and grow them next year. If you have the energy and ideas to give back then we'll find a place for you. Thanks everyone

2020 Election Committee:
Andrew Tucker, Boris Gul, Andy Drelick

2020 Third Rail Board of Directors:

• President - Andy Drelick

• Vice President - Danny Chediak

• Secretary - Stephanie Plaut

• Treasurer - Boris Gul

• Board Member - Ray Kingsbury

• Board Member - Andrew Tucker

• Board Member - Allison Michelle Whitney

• Board Member - Justin SE Bulova
  

Who Starts? Knockout Round

By Nick Fiorino (@stretch_fio)

Ahead of Wednesday’s Knockout Round, most fans would argue that the same starting eleven that defeated the Union just three days ago should start again. I find it naive to think Jim Curtin’s side will not adjust, if not positionally then certainly tactically. Domè, City’s supposed tactical advantage, should be one-step ahead. With NYCFC finally at full strength, the options are plenty. At Yankee Stadium, in front of City supporters, there are no more excuses.

Attack:

I expect the front three to feature two changes from Sunday’s win. Jesus Medina received mixed reviews from not only supporters this weekend but his manager as well, and I expect him to start on the bench. Ismael Tajouri-Shradi has been a revelation this season, and it would be a crime not to feature the eleven goal scorer in the Knockout Round. David Villa has scored in four of his last six matches, including two in a row. A confident captain should produce results. On the left, I expect Ronald Matarrita to drop back into defense, and Valentin Castellanos to get the starting nod. In per-match statistics, ‘Taty’ averages four shots a match, placing him in elite company; just ahead of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and just behind Miguel Almirón. Looking at expected goals yields the same result, with Castellanos sandwiched between Gyasi Zardes and Alberth Elis, tied with Zlatan in the important statistic. Castellanos deserves the start, and I believe Domè will give it to him.

Subs: Jo Inge Berget, Jesus Medina

Midfield:

NYCFC is at their best when Maxi Moralez, Alexander Ring, and Yangel Herrera are together in the middle. Advanced statistics help tell the story of why the midfield trio have been so successful. In the defensive third of the pitch, Alexander Ring ranks second in MLS in passes completed per match. In the middle third of the pitch, Yangel Herrera ranks fourth in MLS in passes completed per match. In the attacking third of the pitch, Maxi Moralez has completed the fourth most passes in the league. Showcasing all three players together lends itself to City’s possession based style, and limits the opposition’s chances. City will be almost guaranteed to see the majority of the ball on Sunday, and as long as their fluid and dynamic first-choice midfield stays intact. The midfield was the team’s strength on Sunday, and I expect nothing less than an amazing performance from three of City’s most influential players on Wednesday.

Subs: Ebenezer Ofori

Defense:

Ben Sweat has been an amazing value for NYCFC, and a somewhat under-appreciated constant on a back line plagued by injury this season; Alexander Callens, Maxime Chanot, and Ronald Matarrita all missed time. That being said, Sweat tends to make a few mistakes each start, which leaves City exposed. Domè’s affinity for Matarrita should shine through on Sunday, and I believe that the Costa Rican international will provide a vintage performance from left back. Partly due to his appearances as a winger, and partly due to his aggressive attacking style, Matarrita is one of the most productive wingbacks in the league. At home, Mata should be ready to roll.

Subs: Ben Sweat, Sebastien Ibeagha

We expect a victory and nothing less on Wednesday, then our sights can be set on a reeling Atlanta United. This may just be City’s season after all...Come on New York!

Player Stats

New York City FC:

Goals: David Villa (14), Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (11), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (16), Jesus Medina (7), Anton Tinnerholm (6)

Home Goals: David Villa (9)

Philadelphia Union:

Goals: Cory Burke (10), Fafa Picault (10), Ilsinho (9)

Assists: Borek Dockal (18), Haris Medunjanin (7), Alejandro Bedoya (6)

Away Goals: Fafa Picault (7)

MLS Statistics

Advanced Individual Statistics

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v Philadelphia Union at 7:00 ET on Unimas and Fox Sports 1

Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM

What to Watch for: NYCFC and the Playoffs

By Nick Fiorino (@stretch_fio)

It has not been easy watching recent NYCFC performances. The team has simply not been been good enough, with the last truly good match coming in the second week of July. The thrill of three home victories by a combined scoreline of 6-0, including a Derby win and amazing displays from the club’s youth, has not been matched in over three months. Luckily, the playoffs are nearly upon us. When the final whistle is blown on Sunday, regardless of result, the season will undergo a reset, and the last twelve weeks of mediocrity will mean little in comparison to the Knockout Round. With the final game of the season readily approaching, here are the four things to focus on.

Result

Obviously, a positive result on Sunday is City’s first priority. Barring a disaster, City will have the luxury of home field advantage for the Knockout Round. Who they will host, on the other hand, is completely up in the air. Even a draw would be in City’s favor, almost guaranteeing avoiding red-hot DC United in the play-in game.

Seeding changes aside, NYCFC need a result for confidence and momentum. Winning only two of their last twelve matches, the boys in blue simply cannot let their disappointing play continue into November. While the three points are certainly important, NYCFC must address the underlying issues that have plagued this team for months.

Formation

We have seen little consistency in formation and player selection throughout Domè’s tenure as manager. The formation showcased by NYCFC on Sunday will likely be the same as the Knockout Round, giving fans a taste of what is to come. While some players may receive rest for lingering injuries on Sunday, the formation and tactics will speak volumes to the potential playoff XI. Below are the two likely options:

4-3-3

NYCFC’s tried and true formation since early into Patrick Vieira’s tenure with the club, the 4-3-3 would force Domè to pick two of City’s deep selection of wingers to start alongside David Villa. Youth, pace, and a secondary goal scorer would relieve pressure for Villa and allow the Blues to use the width of the entire pitch, and keep the opposition compressed into their own end. With Yangel Herrera expected to return to full fitness come playoff time, Ebenezer Ofori would likely be relegated to substitute duties. Ben Sweat would almost certainly get the nod at left back, providing coverage at the back to stop the counter.

Diamond

With a full squad to select from, Domè may opt to line up in the 4-3-1-2 Diamond formation seen sparingly throughout the year. While the formation would not showcase any wingers, limiting Jesus Medina, Taty Castellanos, and Ismael Tajouri-Shradi from starting, the diamond will pack the midfield and limit the counter-attack. Jo Inge Berget and David Villa would work in a front two with Maxi not far behind, creating an interesting front three. Ronald Matarrita would likely start at left back opposite Anton Tinnerholm, and the pair would have the independence to join the attack from the wings. Lastly, the fluidity of the midfield would give both Yangel Herrera and Alex Ring the opportunity to join the attack without a concern for the counter-attack.

Identity

NYCFC’s identity as a club from day one has been rooted in possession-based football with dynamic attackers. Before the tail end of this season, City’s style of play was the one constant on the pitch. For any chance on Sunday and in the playoffs, Domè must return to the style that has been a part of NYCFC from the beginning.

In City’s first three seasons of existence, the missing piece of the puzzle was a secondary scorer opposite David Villa. Now, with Ismael Tajouri-Shradi, Maxi Moralez, and Jesus Medina combining to score 25 goals to Villa’s 13, there should be no excuse. The current roster has a perfect mix of experience and youth, and has lost only once at home all season. This is the same NYCFC that outplayed Atlanta United and beat the Red Bulls at Yankee Stadium. With some fine tuning, City can beat anyone in this league.

The Future

The pessimistic, worst case scenario must also be addressed. There is a real possibility that NYCFC cannot turn back to the form of months ago, lose on Sunday, and subsequently are knocked out early into the playoffs once again. If this is the case, real questions need to be asked during the offseason. First, City’s youth was mismanaged this season by both managers. Jonathan Lewis did not play nearly as much as he should have, and some player selections on game days were questionable at best, and preposterous at worst. We saw players like Eloi Amagat, Rodney Wallace, and Tommy McNamara given opportunities time and time again over promising young talent. Domè has said that he “needs two wingers”, yet has had Jesus Medina, Ismael Tajouri-Shradi, Taty Castellanos, and Jonathan Lewis available for most of the season.

Shifting focus to our manager, some fans will certainly be clamoring for a change. That being said, Domè needs and deserves more time than he has been given to implement his style and add talent to the squad. Nonetheless, NYCFC has been mismanaged at times this season, and the results have not been good enough. Under Patrick Vieira, no player’s spot in the starting eleven was guaranteed, and it showed on the field. Domè must motivate his players for every match, regardless of occasion, home and away, which he simply has not done in recent months.

…

With all this in mind, NYCFC have as good a chance as any to make their run this season and lift MLS Cup. The business-portion of the season has almost arrived. Will it be more of the same from New York’s team? Or will fans finally get the playoff victories they deserve? We’ll find out soon enough.

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Game Preview: NYCFC v. Montreal Impact

By Nick Fiorino (@stretch_fio)

On Saturday September 22nd, NYCFC will travel North to face the Montreal Impact. Winless in their last five, and with only one win in their last eight matches, City need to turn the tides before things really get out of hand. With a combined 83 shots in their last three matches and only two goals, the boys in blue will have to be more clinical. Embarking on three games in seven days, results, and not just “good performances”, will be paramount and an indicator of City’s post-October prospects.

Lineup Prediction

With a full selection of players at his disposal, Domè will have many decisions to make. While the shape of the XI will be fluid for much of the match, I believe NYCFC will line up in their usual 4-3-3 to start. Jo Inge Berget should regain his starting spot, and will spend some time wide left, but most of the match at centre-forward next to David Villa. Ismael Tajouri-Shradi should start on the wing if the 4-3-3 is decided upon. The midfield will finally get back to normal, with Alex Ring, Ebenezer Ofori, and Maxi Moralez playing their normal roles. The back four will likely be comprised of Ben Sweat, Maxime Chanot, Alexander Callens, and Anton Tinnerholm, but do not be surprised for Sebastien Ibeagha to hold his place. If Domè decides on the 4-4-2 diamond, expect Tajouri-Shradi to see the bench for a more defensive-minded option.

Recent Form

NYCFC: LDLLD

To put it plainly, City have not been good enough in recent matches. The months of August and September have been brutal with a record of 1-3-3, totaling only six points.

Montreal Impact: DDWLW

The Impact are on the complete other side of the spectrum. Montreal has lost only one of their last six, including a 3-0 victory over the Red Bulls and a 4-1 win away in Philadelphia last Saturday. A team focused on putting away chances on the counter-attack, Montreal will be an incredibly tough opponent.

Standings

Impact Player Spotlight: Ignacio Piatti

Who else could it be? Ignacio Piatti has had another spectacular season in MLS, with 13 goals and 12 assists thus far. Of his 13 goals, 11 have come at home. He ranks ninth in the league in expected goals plus assists, leads Montreal in shots on target, key passes, and fouls suffered, and leads MLS with five game winning assists. Quite possibly the most fun player to watch in MLS, Piatti is as important to Montreal as any player to any team.

Jonathan Lewis Loan Update

Fan favorite and one of the best young talents at the club, Jonathan Lewis has been loaned to Louisville City FC for the remainder of the USL season, concluding on October 13th. Lewis will be back in New York for the final two matches of the MLS regular season and the playoffs. Earlier this season, James Sands was also sent on loan to Louisville, and was incredibly effective in all three appearances. This move initially sent City supporters in an uproar, but in actuality, Lewis will miss only three matches due to an almost month-long break in matches from September 29th to October 21st.

UPDATE: On Wednesday night, Lewis made his debut and contributed an assist in 62 minutes on the pitch in an all-around great performance.

Player Stats

New York City FC:

Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (11), David Villa (11), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (13), Jesus Medina (7), David Villa and Anton Tinnerholm (5)

Away Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (7)

Montreal Impact:

Goals: Ignacio Piatti (13), Saphir Taider (6), Alejandro Silva (4)

Assists: Ignacio Piatti (12), Alejandro Silva (10), Saphir Taider (6)

Home Goals: Ignacio Piatti (11)

MLS Statistics

Advanced Individual Statistics

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v Montreal Impact on YES Network at 7:30 ET or Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM NY

Game Preview: NYCFC v. DC United

By Nick Fiorino (stretch_fio)

On Saturday, September 8th NYCFC will look to bounce back in front of the home supporters when Wayne Rooney and DC United come to town. Four games without a win and arguably seven games without a good performance, City need three points. The form could not be more different between the two clubs, but anything can happen in the Bronx. With an expected crowd of 30,000+, City will certainly have the 12th man on their side.

Lineup Prediction

A lineup will be hard to predict when a squad is short seven players. Ebenezer Ofori, Ismael Tajouri-Shradi, Maxine Chanot, Rodney Wallace, Jo Inge Berget, Jesus Medina, and Alex Ring will all miss Saturday’s important match. As James Sands proved Wednesday night, however, now is the time for players to prove their worth for the final stretch of the season and into the playoffs. I believe that last week’s diamond formation will make another appearance on Saturday, giving us a front three of David Villa and Valentin “Taty” Castellanos with Maxi Moralez behind. Without Alex Ring, James Sands should again sit in front of the back four, with Ronald Matarrita and Eloi Amagat on each side. A back four of Ben Sweat, Alexander Callens, Sebastien Ibeagha, and Anton Tinnerholm is expected.

Recent Form

NYCFC: WLDLL

Losing their first match in the Bronx in just under a full year on Wednesday, NYCFC are in horrific form. Losing two in a row for the first time since April of 2016, Domè needs to find answers.

DC United: WWLLW

DC United have won four of their last six games, and are coming off an impressive 3-1 win over Atlanta. Surging up the Eastern Conference table, a win over NYCFC would be essential to DC’s playoff hopes.

Standings

Player Spotlight

NYCFC: James Sands

Making his long-awaited first start for City on Wednesday, James Sands showed us what the hype was all about. With his calmness on the ball and head always on a swivel, it is no wonder why Domè has given him such high praise. Our #6 of the future will have a huge responsibility on Saturday with Alex Ring suspended and Ebenezer Ofori away on international duty. Likely the defensive head of our midfield, Sands’ play will dictate much of the afternoon for City.

DC United: Luciano Acosta

Although Wayne Rooney has been in the headlines, Lucho Acosta has been just as important in DC’s surge in the standings. With Rooney starting as a true Centre-Forward, Acosta now has the space and the service to showcase his talents, cultivated at Boca Juniors as a teen. Scoring twice against Atlanta last week, both assisted by Rooney, Lucho will be a clear danger. Although scoring all seven of his goals at home, his seven assists on the road is tied with Kaku for first in the league. Proving he can score and supply his teammates, Acosta will be the key for DC United on Saturday.  

Player Stats

New York City FC:

Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (11), David Villa (10), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (13), Jesus Medina (7), David Villa and Anton Tinnerholm (5)

Home Goals: David Villa (6)

DC United:

Goals: Yamil Asad (9), Darren Mattocks (9), Luciano Acosta (7)

Assists: Luciano Acosta (10), Paul Arriola (8), Zoltan Stieber (7)

Away Goals: Yamil Asad (8)

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v DC United on UniMas at 5:00 ET or Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM

Game Preview: NYCFC v. New England Revolution

By Nick Fiorino (@stretch_fio)

On Wednesday, September 5th NYCFC thankfully return home to the Bronx for an Eastern Conference clash against the Revolution after a terrible performance in Columbus. City will be as short-handed as ever before for the next two home matches, with the International Call-ups of Maxime Chanot, Ebenezer Ofori, Ismael Tajouri-Shradi, and Rodney Wallace. The injury report is full as well with Jo Inge Berget and Jesus Medina both unavailable, and Alexander Callens still questionable. Regardless of the obstacles, a win over the Revs is necessary to get City back onto form.

Lineup Prediction

Call it wishful thinking, but I believe that Jonathan Lewis and James Sands will both get the start on Wednesday. I absolutely would not be surprised to see Ronald Matarrita in the attack and Eloi Amagat or Kwame Awuah in the midfield, however. A front three of David Villa, Valentin “Taty” Castellanos, and Jonathan Lewis would be a dream for City supporters, and I hope that Domè makes the correct decision. The backline of Ben Sweat, Alexander Callens, Sebastien Ibeagha, and Anton Tinnerholm should start as well. If Callens is forced to miss the match, however, expect Ben Sweat to move centrally and Ronald Matarrita to start at left-back.

Recent Form

NYCFC: DWLDL

Coming off quite possibly the most disappointing performance of the season, NYCFC luckily have a quick turnaround to turn their fortunes. Winning only one of their last six games, City need six points from the next two matches.

New England: DLLLD

Winless since June, the Revolution have lost six of their last nine. Only six points from the sixth position in the East, however, New England still has everything to play for.

Standings

NYCFC failed to make up ground on the top two in the East, both who also lost this past match week. With one game in hand on the Red Bulls, however, the next two home matches will be incredibly important results for City.

Player Spotlight

NYCFC: Jonathan Lewis

Jonathan Lewis deserves to start this week for NYCFC; If not now, when? With Jo Inge Berget and Jesus Medina sidelined for the near future, Ismael Tajouri-Shradi with his national team, and an aging David Villa playing three games in a week, now is the time. Lewis has been impressive in every appearance thus far in 2018, and if he doesn’t get time this week, this year could be the last we see of Lewis in the Bronx.

New England: Diego Fagundez

Diego Fagundez, who opened the scoring in his last meeting against NYCFC, has had another great season in MLS. Tallying seven goals and eight assists, he has been a bright spot in a disappointing season for the Revs. According to American Soccer Analysis, Fagundez is fourth in the league in key passes with 70, eleven behind Maxi Moralez. Sixth in expected assists and starting in 25 of the Revolution’s 26 games, Fagundez has been a constant in a season without many for New England.

Player Stats

NYCFC:

Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (11), David Villa (10), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (13), Jesus Medina (7), David Villa and Anton Tinnerholm (5)

Home Goals: David Villa (6)

New England:

Goals: Teal Bunbury (11), Cristian Penilla (9), Diego Fagundez (7)

Assists: Diego Fagundez (8), Cristian Penilla (6), Wilfried Zahibo (4)

Away Goals: Teal Bunbury and Cristian Penilla (5)

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v New England on YES Network at 7:00 ET or Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM

Game Preview: NYCFC v. Red Bulls (8/22)

By Nick Fiorino (@stretch_fio)

On Wednesday, August 22nd a shorthanded NYCFC side will return home to the Bronx for their most important game of the season thus far, the final regular season installment of the Hudson River Derby. With City four points behind Atlanta and a lone point behind our cross-river rivals, nothing short of all three points are necessary to remain in the elite company of MLS.

Lineup Prediction

NYCFC’s injury report headed into the Derby is full. Alexander Callens and Jesus Medina will miss the match due to injuries sustained on Saturday night. Valentin ‘Taty’ Castellanos has been dealing with a quad injury and will not be available for selection, alongside Ronald Matarrita, who picked up a red card on Saturday. City’s depth will be tested, and hopefully the youngsters can make the 18.

With this in mind, I expect Jo Inge Berget, David Villa, and Ismael Tajouri-Shradi to start in the front three. David Villa will almost certainly be on a minutes restriction post-injury, but I expect him to make an serious impact on the match, even if only for 45-60 minutes. The midfield should remain intact, while the back four is practically set with Ben Sweat, Sebastien Ibeagha, Maxime Chanot, and Anton Tinnerholm. The bench should finally feature Jonathan Lewis, who has not made the eighteen in two consecutive matches.

Recent Form

NYCFC: WLDWL

Although City are 2-1-2 in their last five, they have arguably been outclassed in four of those matches, with the fifth being an unsatisfying draw at home. Luckily for City, a win would certainly raise the spirits of the boys heading into the final eight matches of the regular season.

Red Bulls: WLWWD

The Red Bulls have been in good form for most of, if not the entirety of the season so far. Coming off a 2-2 away draw in Vancouver on Saturday, Chris Armas’ side will look to widen the gap between second and third place in the East on Wednesday night.

Standings

Player Spotlight

NYCFC: Maxi Moralez

The play of Maxi Moralez this season cannot be focused upon enough. His work on both ends of the pitch has been immense. First in Major League Soccer with 80 key passes, Maxi’s eight goals and twelve assists have made him team MVP thus far. His build-up play has been essential, as he is ranked third in the league in total passes in the middle and attacking thirds of the pitch. Setting the tempo of the match is Maxi’s forte, as he has suffered the third most fouls in the league as well. ‘El Frasquito’ has proven essential to City’s success in a season plagued by attacking injuries.

Red Bulls: Bradley-Wright Phillips

Who else could it be? The Red Bull attacker has had another season in elite goal scoring form, and will look to add on another at Yankee Stadium. Tied for second in MLS in goals with 15, Wright-Phillips has also tacked on 7 assists. Most dangerously for NYCFC, American Soccer Analysis has given BWP a 0.30 ‘solo’ rating, which is second in the league for double-digit goalscorers behind Ismael Tajouri-Shradi. Simply, the stat is a percentage of shots taken that were unassisted. Wright-Phillips capitalizes on defensive mistakes, and is clinical in crunch time situations. Without Alexander Callens in defense for the first time in two seasons as a steady passing target in the back, NYCFC must be perfect in build-up to have a chance on Wednesday night.

Player Stats

New York City FC:

Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (10), David Villa (9), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (12), Jesus Medina (7), David Villa and Anton Tinnerholm (4)

Home Goals: David Villa and Maxi Moralez (5)

Red Bull:s

Goals: Bradley Wright-Phillips (15), Daniel Royer (10), Three Players (3)

Assists: Kaku (14), Sean Davis (8), Bradley Wright-Phillips (7)

Away Goals: Bradley Wright-Phillips and Daniel Royer (5)

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v Red Bull on Fox Sports 1 and FoxSportsGo at 7:00 ET or Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM

Game Preview: NYCFC v. Philadelphia (8/18)

By Nick Fiorino (stretch_fio)

On Saturday, August 18th, NYCFC travel to Philadelphia to face the fifth place Union. With the Red Bulls coming to the Bronx on Wednesday and the final stretch of the season in sight, three points are necessary to keep pace in the Eastern Conference and the Supporters’ Shield race.

Lineup Prediction

NYCFC’s injury woes continue, with newcomer Valentin “Taty” Castellanos out with a quad injury on Saturday. On the bright side, Sean Johnson is likely to return in goal after missing the last two matches. With the last regular season Hudson River Derby match of 2018 on deck at Yankee Stadium, the boys in blue will look to impress and fight for a place in the team on Wednesday. I believe that Jesus Medina, David Villa, and Ismael Tajouri-Shradi will start up front, but Domè may give Rodney Wallace, Jo Inge Berget, or Jonathan Lewis, who did not even make the 18 last week, the spot start. I expect the midfield to remain unchanged. Ben Sweat should get the nod after a rather pedestrian performance from Ronald Matarrita last weekend. Lastly, Sebastien Ibeagha has started the last two away from home for City, and I believe that he starts again in Philly.

Recent Form

NYCFC: WWLDW

Following a disappointing draw at home to a rather weak Vancouver side, NYCFC responded in Toronto with all three points against the reigning MLS Cup Champions.

Philadelphia: WLWLW

Although the Union’s season has had it ups and downs, they lie in fifth place in the Standings. Winning three of their last five games, all on the road, the Union look to be heading in the right direction at the tail end of the season.

Previous Meeting

On June 2nd of last year, NYCFC defeated the Philadelphia Union by a score of 2-1. The first half was full of City chances, with Andre Blake making tremendous saves throughout the 45’. The score remained 0-0 until Fafa Picault scored for the Union off the counter, giving Philadelphia a 1-0 lead. Many will remember this match for the unlikely NYCFC goal scorers late in the match, with Maxime Chanot scoring a rare header from a corner for City in the 80’. Then in the 84’, Alexander Callens scored after a scramble in front of net, giving NYCFC the 2-1 lead, which they held onto.

All-time Series: 4-2-1

Standings

Player Spotlight

NYCFC: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi

Quite possibly the Newcomer of the Year, Ismael Tajouri-Shradi has been nothing short of incredible for City this season. NYCFC’s one constant critique since day one has focused on a secondary goalscorer to David Villa, and Tajouri-Shradi has certainly accomplished this. His goal scoring efficiency is unrivaled in MLS, showcased by his 10 goals on only 15 shots on target. He also ranks first in the league in goals minus expected goals. Tajouri-Shradi is not only a key to this match, or the rest of this season, but to the future of NYCFC’s attack.

Philadelphia: CJ Sapong

CJ Sapong is having an interesting season to say the least. A proven goalscorer at the MLS level, his three goals and one assist in 22 games played are shocking statistics. Sapong has the lowest goals minus expected goals in MLS, which usually means that a player is due a goal sooner rather than later. Sapong’s eleven expected goals plus assists places him in elite company, and Saturday may be the day that Sapong breaks out in 2018.

Player Stats

NYCFC:

Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (10), David Villa (9), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (12), Jesus Medina (7), David Villa and Anton Tinnerholm (4)

Away Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (6)

Philadelphia: 

Goals: Borek Dockal, Fafa Picault, and Corey Burke (5)

Assists: Borek Dockal (10), Alejandro Bedoya (4), Fafa Picault (3)

Home Goals: Borek Dockal (5)

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v Philadelphia on YES Network at 7:00 ET or Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM

Game Preview: NYCFC v. Vancouver (8/4)

By Nick Fiorino (@stretch_fio)

Before the Game Preview, Congratulations are in order for Adrian Conoboy, the MLS Works Community MVP for 2018! Adrian has done incredible work and is an amazing representative of the club. You can find his nonprofit charity We Can Kick It on Twitter, and on behalf of the Third Rail, we thank Adrian for his unbelievable effort not only this All-Star week, but for years to come as well.

Now onto the match…

On Saturday, August 4th NYCFC returns home to face the Vancouver Whitecaps. As every fan must know, City’s undefeated season at Yankee Stadium thus far (10-0-1) will be on the line. The boys in blue will look to bounce back after a tough loss in Seattle last week, but luckily, NYCFC have not lost back-to-back matches in the last two full seasons.

Lineup Predictions

With David Villa suspended due to his All-Star absence, the NYCFC attack will again be forced to adapt. I believe the best course of action is for Jo Inge Berget to start up front with Ismael Tajouri-Shradi and Jesus Medina alongside him on the wings. Do not be surprised for Rodney Wallace or Ronald Matarrita to grab the start, and also expect to see newcomer Valentin Castellanos off the bench for his NYCFC debut. Although playing for most of the first half on Wednesday night in Atlanta, Alexander Ring is expected to start and play like his usual self next to his midfield partner Ebenezer Ofori. Maxime Chanot should reclaim his starting spot in the backline, and July’s NYCFC Player of the Month Anton Tinnerholm will look to attack and net his fifth of the season from right back. Lastly, the Injury Report released Friday informed the fans of Sean Johnson’s training injury sustained during the week, and from Domè’s comments, I believe that Brad Stuver will get the start between the posts.

Recent Form

NYCFC: WWWWL

Following their four game home stand that resulted in four victories, City split last week’s road trip, defeating Orlando yet falling to the Sounders.

Vancouver: LWLLW

Although losing four of their last seven games, the Whitecaps are coming off their most high-profile win of the season against the surging Minnesota United. Their away form has been quite poor on the season, however, losing their last three away from home by an aggregate score line of 9-1.

Previous Meeting

On July 5th of last year, NYCFC traveled to BC Place in Vancouver and lost 3-2. An early giveaway by City’s defense led to a Fredy Montero goal in the second minute. The game calmed until the 33’, where the patented NYCFC corner technique led to a scramble in front of goal, which was finally put away by Maxime Chanot, tying the match at one. Tommy McNamara won a penalty five minutes later, which David Villa buried, giving City a 2-1 lead into halftime. The second half was filled with Vancouver Whitecaps chances, with left back Jordan Harvey volleying an equalizer from a well worked cross. The game was all but over until Yordy Reyna scored the winner in the 88’ on a free header in front of goal. After leading 2-1, City left Vancouver without any points.

All-time Series: 2-1-0

Standings

A win on Saturday would place NYCFC one point behind league leaders Atlanta United in not only the Eastern Conference Standings, but the Supporters’ Shield race as well. NYCFC’s 1.95 average points per game ranks second in MLS, alongside the Red Bulls.

Player Spotlight

NYCFC: Maxi Moralez

At the All-Star break, NYCFC’s MVP has surely been Maxi Moralez. El Frasquito has had a breakout season thus far, tied for second in the league with his 11 assists. Moralez has also been the catalyst for City’s home form on the season, with his 8 home assists only one behind the league lead. Maxi plays all over the pitch, assisting in build up, speeding up the tempo in the attack, while also slowing down play with his 54 fouls suffered, fifth in MLS. Looking at advanced statistics, Moralez stacks up alongside elite company in 2018, ranking sixth in expected goals plus assists with just over 13. With David Villa injured for much of this season, Maxi has stepped up and has been more than City fans could have hoped.

Vancouver: Alphonso Davies

Rather obviously, Vancouver’s player spotlight will be 17 year old sensation Alphonso Davies. Recently sold to German super club Bayern Munich for an MLS record $13.5 Million with bonuses that total $22 Million, Davies lives up to the hype. Last week, the Whitecaps defeated Minnesota United, with Davies tallying two goals and two assists. The wonderkid is a sight to see, and the bright lights at Yankee Stadium may bring out the best of the budding superstar.

Player Stats

NYCFC

Goals: David Villa (8), Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (8), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (11), Jesus Medina (7), David Villa (4)

Home Goals: Maxi Moralez and David Villa (5)

Vancouver

Goals: Kei Kamara (9), Cristian Techera (6), Alphonso Davies (5)

Assists: Alphonso Davies (10), Felipe (6), Yordy Reyna (5)

Away Goals: Kei Kamara and Brek Shea (3)

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v Vancouver on YES Network at 8:00 ET or Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM

Game Preview: NYCFC v. Seattle (7/29)

By Nick Fiorino (stretch_fio)

On Sunday, July 28th NYCFC travel cross-country to face the Seattle Sounders.  After earning the victory Thursday night in Orlando, City will look to earn six of a possible six points on their two game road trip and finally improve upon their rather pedestrian away form on the season. Although beating the Lions rather easily, Domè was not happy with the performance. Without David Villa due to injury and Alexander Ring due to yellow card accumulation, City’s depth will be tested against a Sounders squad that is undefeated in their last five matches.

Lineup Prediction

Although David Villa has not made the trip to Seattle, the rest of the attack seems to be at full strength after substitute appearances from Jo Inge Berget and Ismael Tajouri-Shradi. I believe that both will start on Sunday, alongside Ronald Matarrita and Maxi Moralez in the attack, sending Rodney Wallace to the bench. With Ring out of the lineup, Domè implied that Kwame Awuah would get the start, and I believe that he should as well, alongside Ebenezer Ofori following his most impressive match for the club thus far. Lastly, I believe that Sebastien Ibeagha will get a spot start, but do not be surprised to see the backline unchanged after four straight clean sheets.

Recent Form

NYCFC: LWWWW

In the midst of their longest win streak of the season, NYCFC seem to be hitting their peak form. Missing some key starters, City have been leaning on Maxi Moralez in the attack, Alexander Callens and Sean Johnson in the back, and super-sub Jonathan Lewis, and all will be essential to keep the streak alive on Sunday.

Seattle: WDDWW

Although still tenth in the Western Conference, the Sounders are certainly trending in the right direction. Currently unbeaten in five with three wins and conceding only two goals along the way, the Sounders finally have a winning formula. With new Designated Player Raul Ruidiaz set to make his second start, and Roman Torres set to return to the defense, Seattle believe they can earn the three points at CenturyLink regardless of their opponent.

Previous Meeting

On June 17th of last season, City hosted the Sounders in a match many will remember as the “rain game”. The first half was characterized by sloppy build up play and an almost unplayable surface due to the weather. Cristian Roldan opened the scoring in the 40’, stunning City supporters. Just before half, David Villa smashed the crossbar on what would have been a goal of the season, but NYCFC went to the break trailing 1-0. David Villa won and buried a penalty five minutes into the second half, and City never looked back. With only fifteen minutes left, Jack Harrison sent in a great cross, which David Villa scored first-time on a beautiful finish, ending the match 2-1 in the favor of the boys in blue.

All-time Series: 2-1-0

Standings

Player Spotlight

NYCFC: Ebenezer Ofori

Since his move from Stuttgart, Ebenezer Ofori has steadily improved for NYCFC. On Thursday, Ofori dominated the Orlando midfield and was great on both sides of the ball. Without Alexander Ring on Sunday, Ofori may be asked to take command of Ring’s all-important defensive midfield duties, an incredibly difficult task. Ofori’s performance will be essential if City are to earn all three points.

Seattle: Raul Ruidiaz

With no player with more than five goals scored, yet twelve different goal scorers on the season, Seattle has gone with a team attacking approach. Designated Player Raul Ruidiaz hopes to change that in his second start for the club on Sunday. The “Peruvian Messi” is a proven scorer, putting in great performances for the national team, Primera Division in Chile, and Liga MX. Scoring in his first match for Seattle on Wednesday, Ruidiaz was dangerous all night, and he is certainly the focus for NYCFC on Sunday.

Player Stats

NYCFC: 

Goals: David Villa (8), Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (8), Maxi Moralez (8)

Assists: Maxi Moralez (11), Jesus Medina (7), David Villa (4)

Away Goals: Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (4)

Seattle:

Goals: Will Bruin (5), Nicolas Lodeiro (4), 10 Players (1)

Assists: Nicolas Lodeiro (5), Cristian Roldan (5), Will Bruin (4)

Home Goals: Nicolas Lodeiro (3)

New Signings

NYCFC have made two new signings in the last five days, both who are sure to see time on the pitch down the key final stretch of the season. First on July 25th, NYCFC announced the transfer of 33 year-old Spanish midfielder Eloi Amagat. Familiar with him from his time at Girona FC in Spain, Domè has spoken highly of Amagat. Although a likely replacement for Yangel Herrera, the players could not be more different. Amagat will fight for playing time with Ebenezer Ofori and likely be a creative attacking presence to the usual defensive two that City have employed this season.

Secondly on July 27th, NYCFC announced the loan of Valentin Castellanos, a 19 year-old Argentinian from City Football Group owned Torque in Uruguay’s Primera Division. Winning Young Player of the Month for the league in June, Castellanos is a right-footed winger who prefers to play on the left. Adding Castellanos into the young core attack alongside Jesus Medina and Jonathan Lewis, City’s depth is now rivaled by its youth as well. Expect Castellanos to be initially used as Lewis is used; a super-sub with serious pace and one vs one ability.

Follow Nick Fiorino on Twitter at @stretch_fio and The Third Rail at @ThirdRailSC. Interested in learning more about the Third Rail? Visit our website at thirdrail.nyc for merchandise, weekly game previews and more. Interested in joining? Click here.

Watch NYCFC v Seattle on ESPN at 5:00 ET or Listen on WNYE 91.5 FM