NYC FC players show belief in Torrent

It’s often easy to analyze a manager by results when he first takes charge.  However, the results of a team do not always provide a reliable indication of a manager’s ability, especially early in his spell.

That is not to say that a narrow defeat to Chicago and two victories are by any means a bad start for NYC FC under new manager Domenec Torrent, but it would be a mistake to get carried away by the recent points tally.

If there is anything to conclude about Torrent so far, it is that NYC are heading in positive direction. The Yankee Stadium side’s performances with Torrent have been solid to date.

Against Toronto, they fought back to claim all three points after going a goal down. Though the victory was narrow, NYC created plenty of chances in the final third and were unfortunate not to score more.

Despite a defeat to Chicago a week later, the fact that they did lead despite being behind is also a positive sign. Though NYC FC were defeated, they displayed good character to take the lead after falling behind.

A tight game against the Red Bulls followed a week later. NYC’s victory over their local rivals demonstrated their ability to hold their own and compete with the strongest sides in the MLS. It also demonstrated that the Bronx based side are capable of withstanding pressure and winning ugly. This is important, especially in the latter stages of the season.

Three games are little to draw off of, especially as far as results are concerned. But looking beyond the results, the number of NYC’s chances in the final third are the mental strength they have displayed to come from behind on multiple occasions are strong indicators that they will maintain their caliber throughout the remainder of the season.

Looking beyond this season, however, NYC’s performances suggest that they believe in Torrent’s approach. It can sometimes be difficult to perform as they have under a recently appointed coach, especially in the middle of the season. However, that they have is something for Torrent to build on as his NYC FC career moves wears on. A connection between the manager and his players is crucial to a successful side and NYC FC appears to have it under Torrent.