NYCFC spoil Almeyda’s return
Despite losing their previous match, optimism was high for the Earthquakes as their outspoken coach, Matías Almeyda, made his return from suspension. However, top-seated Eastern Conference powerhouse, New York City FC, spoiled the party rallying past San Jose 2-1 at Yankee Stadium. The Quakes would take the lead early on, but NYCFC took the lead with two late first-half goals and never looked back.
The game began with San Jose flying out of the gates, opening up the scoring in the 20th minute through all-time MLS goalscorer, Chris Wondolowski. Magnus Eriksson and Vako would combine down the right-hand flank as Eriksson fed Vako who made an overlapping run. Vako whipped it into the box where Wondo pounced on the opportunity. 1-0 San Jose.
New York would pick up the pace later in the half after starting slow offensively. After hitting the bar in the 25th minute, an equalizer was looming for the home side. Come the 40th minute, San Jose’s defense was shredded apart by midfielder Keaton Parks. He set up Gary Mackay-Steven who had his shot denied by keeper Daniel Vega, but the rebound would fall to Parks who smashed it home. The score was level.
A mere three minutes later, NYCFC smelled blood and quickly took the lead before the end of the half in the 43rd minute. Again the San Jose defense was cut open, this time by Ismael Tajouri-Shradi as he slid the ball to Alexandru Mitrita who calmly slotted the Quakes keeper. New York had taken control.
The game would end with a defensive battle in the second half as NYCFC took all three points. New York, with the win, adds to their lead atop of the Eastern Conference. They remain unbeaten at home for the seventh game running. New York will pay a visit to FC Dallas for their next game.
For San Jose, they lose a second consecutive game in the span of four days. With the return of Coach Matías Almeyda, the Earthquakes will look to solidify their playoff standing in a jam-packed Western Conference. They conclude their three-game road trip with a visit to defending MLS Cup winners, Atlanta United.
