NYCFC will be the hosts of the first ever Hudson River Derby and that fact has not gotten lost by head coach Nick Cushing who hopes it will be to his club’s advantage. The team hosted the New York Red Bulls earlier in the season at Citi Field and won in front of a loud and elated crowd. Now, he and his team hopes to replicate that result and deliver the signature victory that both teams so desperately hope to have given the rivalry.
“It’s a really special place under the lights,” said Cushing about Citi Field. “We play a huge part in making that night special. We’re really proud that we’re going to have 22,000-25,000 of our people in the stadium, but we have to play our part in getting the atmosphere, in delivering the performance and in playing our way.”
The City way is one that has changed through the course of the 2024 season. Starting as one that was focused on playing from the back and building through the midfield, they have transitioned in their best moments to being a team that capitalizes on second balls or passes that bypass a usually cluttered MLS midfield. Much of that has to do with the success of Alonso Martinez who has leaped over Mounsef Bakrar and others as being the team’s leading goal scorer.
Despite knowing how well to play, they have had issues in the playoffs when it comes to delivering on their signature style. FC Cincinnati was able to impress their style of play in the second half of game two but City were resolute enough to hold on for the victory. Their game three win was commendable but still showcased their lack of breakthrough play that is necessary in the playoffs.
Now the situation has changed. This Hudson River Derby is a single elimination game where styles and tactics are less important than the result. Both teams know that the pride of carrying the banner of New York is at stake and a win or loss for City will define them more than their 2021 MLS Cup victory.
“If our fans bring the passion and are right behind us from the start and we play on the front foot, I think it will give us every chance of putting in a good performance,” said Cushing.
The Hudson River Derby playoff-edition will be on Saturday afternoon and will be one that could navigate the destinies of both teams for seasons to come.
photo by Jordan Bank