New York City FC head coach Nick Cushing had a lot to celebrate on Saturday after his team kept themselves out of the basement in the Eastern Conference with a win over New England Revolution 2-0. The game was very much a proof-of-concept win, showing that the progress of the process is happening, especially against a bad team like the Revs.
“I see the progress everyday,” said Cushing after the game. “I listen to a group of staff that are excellent, that are working incredibly hard, that are incredibly dedicated to analyzing, to reflecting and reviewing performances, to working with players individually.”
One such player is Agustin Ojeda. The 19 year-old Argentinian made his first start for the club and paid them back in full with a game-winning goal in the second half. His over three million dollar move to City was one where the team knew that repayment wouldn’t come back immediately and would require work to get the most out of the young winger. Head coach Cushing understands this and has exuded patience with him and the club while the cultivation continues.
“It’s a difficult place, but he’s part of our team and I want them to know that,” said Cushing on Ojeda’s performance and integration into the team. “You’re an important guy for us, but then you have to work at all of the things that will get you a start in the team and that will give you the opportunity to be on the team sheet.”
Ojeda may have proven his worth on the pitch, especially since players like Alonso Martinez and Santiago Rodriguez have had such issues scoring goals. Mounsef Bakrar as well has been unable to find the back of the net with consistency but Ojeda’s ability may help to bridge the gap. Should all players begin to produce and NYCFC could find themselves moving from the bottom of the table rather quickly in the coming weeks.
Proof against formidable opposition still remains a question. Next week’s home game against DC United won’t be the largest test but a major step in the right direction should they solidify a second win in a row. Much is riding on a return to form for Cushing and the club as they have spent on young players and are looking to prove that the scouting department made the right choices in recent years.
“We’ve just got to keep progressing and keep working and keep sticking to the plan and keep staying together,” said Cushing. “I can see the progress and I think we will continue. I will continue to push the guys, I can guarantee you that.”
photo by Jordan Bank