3 things we learned during NYCFC's 1-0 win over New England

New York City FC have done it again as their fine run of games continues. They have secured a third straight road win as they continue to climb up the table. NYCFC also got their second win over New England, which is the first time in its regular season history to beat the Revs twice in a single campaign. It is safe to say that the Boys in Blue are ready for business.  

With Toronto FC dropping points against FC Cincinnati and the New York Red Bulls having a bye week, NYCFC remains in third place. Although, they are still a few points behind the second-place slot. The team has also won four wins in a row. They are the hottest team in MLS and have skyrocketed to seventh place during the latest MLS power rankings.  

Defense, offense, and bench players have all contributed to the team’s success of late, with Nick Cushing finally winning the trust of the fans. Matt Freese continues to be one of the league’s best goalkeepers with his third clean sheet of the season. Also, the goals have been coming from everywhere, with Keaton Parks being the hero while Tayvon Gray recorded his second assist in two matches. 

Let's get right into it. Here are the three things we learned from the 1-0 win against the New England Revolution.

3 things we learned from the huge win over New England 

1. Fans have finally seen the Tayvon Gray they are used to seeing 

Since the arrival of Mitja Ilenič last season, Gray has hit a minor slump in his career. A homegrown signing, he had been NYCFC’s number-one right-back at the end of the 2021 season, with his success led to the MLS Cup win. That following season, Gray started over 20 games but also spent some time on the bench.   

This prompted NYCFC to sign a solid right-back, choosing the Slovenian in 2023. Both players had shared playing time, slowly ruining the confidence of the young defender. However, in what was one of the best performances of his career against the Red Bulls, Gray looks to be back after a second assist in a row. Keeping him in a good mental state will only make the team better, with solid depth in the back with both him and Ilenič in top form.

2. How long will Talles Magno stay with NYCFC? 

It has been disappointing, to say the least for Talles Magno, who has gone yet another match unused on the bench. He had missed some time with a knee injury, then was available for the first time since the injury on May 5 against the Colorado Rapids.   

Since he has fallen out of favor with Cushing, his future on the team seems uncertain. With early rumors of a midseason departure, Magno continues to use up a young designated player spot that runs through 2026. Once Maxi Moralez is ready to return, his role in the club will continue to diminish, especially with the new signings performing to their expectations so far.

3. Are NYCFC legitimate playoffs contenders? 

During the first month of the season, playoffs were not even on-site for the team. However, after beating the Red Bulls while also getting back-to-back-to-back away wins against rivals, it is safe to say they will be a squad to watch for. They have finally begun to click, being one of the best possession-based teams in the league. This excludes the match against New England, where they had over 42%.

With Mounsef Bakrar finally finding the net, everything seems to be good for the Pigeons while also being one of the healthiest teams in MLS. The stretch of games now will be a make or break for the team, who are set to play Columbus Crew, the LA Galaxy, and Nashville SC within the next four matches. Nonetheless, if NYCFC can keep this run while their players stay healthy and consistent, then they will be a lethal team to watch out for in the Eastern Conference.