NYCFC: 3 things we learned from the disappointing Hudson River Derby draw

On Saturday, New York City FC and the New York Red Bulls battled for the first-ever Hudson River Derby trophy.  The two teams will use Major League Soccer play to see who earns the silverware in the final match of the regular season.  Finally, thanks to the supporters’ groups, the Hudson River Derby has more than bragging rights to fight for.

Of course, NYCFC and the Red Bulls are not having the best seasons.  The Pigeons have already lost the first MLS matchup and the Leagues Cup game to their rivals, increasing the desire for all three points. 

In the end, NYCFC could not score.  The derby ended in a 0-0 draw, with the Red Bulls claiming the trophy due to the 1-0 win from the win earlier in the season.  It was one of the rare lackluster battles between the two.  For the Pigeons, it was another poor result.

This was not the best 90 minutes between NYCFC and the Red Bulls.  Here are three things we learned from the last Hudson River Derby of the season. 

3. Losing Keaton Parks left a darker cloud after the poor result

In the first half, NYCFC struggled to find an offensive rhythm.  It took over half an hour to finally get something going.  However, during the first true attacking sequence, Keaton Parks suffered a non-contact injury.  He tried to go after the ball, but when he came down from jumping in the air, it looked like he caught his foot in the grass. 

Subsequently, he hurt his ankle or foot.  The pain from his reaction was obvious, and immediately it was clear he was done for the day.  He was eventually able to come off the pitch but was limping as he walked toward the sidelines.

Afterward, the difference in the midfield was evident as the game continued.  Despite the lackluster start, Parks worked well with Andrés Perea and James Sands in the midfield.  It was also offensive-minded, so when Alfredo Morales came on to replace him, it turned into a defensive midfield.  Although, the attacking opportunities did increase in the second half.  Still, that can be attributed to the players in the final third.

Moreover, Parks has been someone who has been able to play in most of the games.  He was consistent in his minutes and style of play.  Losing him was a dark moment on a beautiful end-of-summer day.  Hopefully, the NYCFC midfielder will be okay. It would not be shocking if his season comes to an early close since he was seen with crutches and a walking boot in the locker room.