New York City FC crashed out of the Leagues Cup after falling 0-1 to New Jersey Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena. NYCFC looked composed in the first minutes of the game, but soon the celebrated pressing of New Jersey rattled the visitors. NYCFC’s usually steady James Sands committed a sloppy foul that led to a penalty kick, which New Jersey’s Omir Fernandez converted for the only goal of the game: Here are your NYCFC highlights.
It was a physical game from the opening whistle, with New Jersey taking to heart the old saying, “Play the man, not the ball.” NYCFC tried to follow their game plan and keep possession, but the nonstop press of Red Bulls choked off any chance of a New York City attack.
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New Jersey weren’t just the more physical side, they knew how to take a fall and get the call. Red Bulls midfielder Luquinhas not only earned a penalty kick for Red Bulls in the first half, he was shown a yellow card in the second half for simulation.
Gravity works differently in Red Bull Arena, where members of the home team seem to feel the pull of the earth more acutely. But let’s be honest, Luquinhas is the kind of player you’d love to have on your side but you despise when he’s on the other end of the field.
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NYCFC never looked dangerous in the attacking third, and the midfield was overwhelmed by the Red Bulls press, but Matt Freese seemed comfortable in goal. It’s maybe the only positive thing to take away from an otherwise forgettable night.
