A Brighter Shade of Blue

Mar 29, 2023

Supporters are a funny bunch. They love their team. They love the sport. And they are not truly happy unless they are fully and completely complaining about their side. NYCFC supporters seem to have found their way to this eternal truth. And so, I am coming off of the bench this season to provide the counter arguments. The positive. The joy. The beautiful moments in the beautiful game. Good vibes only.

To start with a truly Everest of a mountain to climb — let's look at this past week’s match against Houston Dynamo.

James Sands

James proved that he can solidly play the back line if needed and keep his composure on the ball. Yes, I prefer him higher up the pitch, for the reasons that Black Air Force Warrior (Twitter: @autto421) pointed out, but it is good to know that there is someone to stand in for Chanot during international call ups.

Louis Barazza

The score sheet ended 1-0 but that was due to a very weak penalty. He made a major error on a distribution pass but recovered and no damage was done. He even showed some talent as a left linebacker during stoppage time when Cushing brought him to center line to support the last attack. I have always been a bit nervous about him between the sticks but after seeing him at home those nerves have subsided. He's comfortable with his feet and is making good saves. He won't be SJ, because he's not. He's his own style of keeper and for now I'm comfortable with him guarding the net.

International Break Over

Chanot will return to anchor our back-line and provide the needed leadership of a proper Captain. And James can move back up to the midfield to better disrupt the opponents attack instead of reacting to the final assult.

No Injuries

In a very fortunate outcome Talles Magno did not pull a hamstring while jogging around in the attack and standing around off the ball to conserve his energy.

There's Always Hope

The Front Office is still looking for talent and a proper striker to move into the formation and that will allow Magno to move out to the wing where he plays better football.