New York City FC vs Vancouver Whitecaps: 3 things we learned from Saturday's draw

New York City FC: 1. One point in two road games is okay

After the first two fixtures of the MLS season, New York City FC only has one point.  But, that one point came from two road games, and the Pigeons notoriously struggled on the road in 2021.  To add, the team has also started slowly the last few seasons, so only getting one point so far is okay. 

There is no doubt NYCFC will find their MLS legs and start playing how fans know they should play.  Still, the Bronx side was the better side by a longshot against Vancouver.  They led with 70% of the possession and had more chances with 19 shots and four on target.  Most of the time was spent in the final third, and in some ways, Vancouver was fortunate the statistic missing for the away team was the goals. 

One cannot say the Pigeons are starting a goal drought, for they did score six in their two CCL games.  Yes, they could not capitalize in some clear-cut chances, but Vancouver also deserves credit for they were able to defend and keep NYCFC out of goal.  Furthermore, there were some solid chances, including the 89th minute chance by Thiago that was saved. 

On the other hand, some fans will probably be okay with the result, for they want the team to focus on the CCL, in which the next match is on Tuesday.  If the team is to get those goals and perform well, then it is preferred to do so in the CCL, and aim for the trophy the team has not won yet.

Nevertheless, if there are fans that are nervous, then based on history, it is easy to say that there is no reason to be worried.  One point in two away games to start the season is not bad at all.  Yes, based on the performance in Vancouver, NYCFC should have come away with all three points.  But they still got a point on the road, and for the start of the 2022 campaign, one cannot complain.