After a shutout victory in the derby at Red Bulls, NYCFC looked to keep their three game winning streak alive in what many considered a trap game against a Minnesota side that has yet to record a road victory.
New York City would have to overcome the absence of keeper Sean Johnson, who earned a spot on the US Men’s National Team for the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Johnson was missed early as in the 9th minute Eirik Johansen could not secure a shot from outside the box and the rebound was put past him by Christian Ramirez for the early lead.
This has been NYCFC’s biggest problem all season, they tend to constantly find themselves down 1-0. However this club constantly finds ways to dig back into ballgames through grit and persistence and are third in the league in points.
The remaining eighty minutes of the game would be dominated by NYC as three unanswered goals by Alexander Callens, Jack Harrison, and the captain David Villa propelled their side to a 3-1 victory.
A satisfied Patrick Vieira praised his club for their recent form, not only on how they dominate the pitch, but how they react with one another as well.
Vieira stated, “We showed character today… I was really pleased because of the way we worked hard together and the character of this team has been fantastic since the beginning of the season”.
Jack Harrison scored the game winner in the 52nd minute on a lovely header for his eighth goal of the season. He later on added to his stat line providing the assist to the David Villa goal that put the game out of reach.
Harrison’s form has been crucial for the club’s success all season and many people, including his manager Vieira, believe he should get a chance on England’s U–21 team.
When asked if Harrison deserved a look on the English side, Vieira replied, “Yes, I’m quite surprised that he didn’t receive any calls for at least the under 21’s because he at least needs to be looked at.”
Harrison showed interest in playing for his native country, however he also hinted at the possibility of representing the United States as well. The midfielder stated, “I’d love to play for the U21’s. I’d love to represent England, my national team. But you know, if the interest is not there but further down the line if I’m able to get US citizenship, I’m not opposed to that either.”
Harrison and the Blues look to make it five straight victories when they take on the Whitecaps in Vancouver on July 5th.
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