3 things we learned about NYCFC in the bonkers road win against FC Dallas | OneFootball

On a hot Saturday night in Texas, New York City FC faced FC Dallas for the first time since 2023.  In that game, the Pigeons won at home in a convincing manner.  Since they last lost to the Texas team in 2015, they sought to extend the unbeaten streak to eight matches and end the four-game road trip in style.  While ugly at times, NYCFC did just that, winning 4-3.

Hence, this was the Bronx side’s third road win of the season.  Even better, they won seven out of a possible 12 points on the road trip, making this a successful time away from home.  Plus, this could spark a run as the players begin the Leagues Cup next week.  They struggled defensively, but still ended with the win.

NYCFC won because they scored multiple goals, which was something they could not do against Sporting Kansas City last weekend.  Jonathan Shore opened the scoring, but it was Alonso Martínez’s hat-trick that sealed the deal.  All of his goals were hit with power, and he was on another level.  He was driven to ensure the Boys in Blue did not drop points again.

Of course, FC Dallas is struggling this season, so it is good to see the Pigeons beat a team that they should beat, regardless of the defensive mishaps.  So, here are three things we learned from NYCFC’s bonkers and insane win against FC Dallas

Jonathan Shore scored his first goal for NYCFC

As mentioned, Jonathan Shore opened up the scoring for the visitors.  The goal was the midfielder’s first for NYCFC, illuminating his scoring ability that has been on display with NYCFC II.  Plus, he is now the youngest scorer in club history, making his mark at 18 years and 103 days old.

Additionally, his performance also revealed how he can still grow defensively.  Shore only played in the first half, as Pascal Jansen made tactical changes at halftime.  But he missed quite a few interceptions and stops that should have been made.  Without the goal and his offensive work, fans might be discussing where he went wrong.

Although, it was not bad.  Shore was also not responsible for the goals from FC Dallas.  But his work on the offensive end really came through.  Therefore, one can state he played well when all is said and done.  He also reminded the head coach why he should continue to play regardless of new additions to NYCFC.

Tayvon Gray struggled as the center-back

Normally, Tayvon Gray can play as a center-back.  He is not as strong in the position as he is as a right-back, but he is average.  This enhances him as a player due to his versatility.

However, he struggled greatly against Dallas.  He was part of the defensive faults that allowed the goals, especially the second one.  Gray was too far in front of the backline, which created space for Logan Farrington to take his shot.  Truthfully, there were too many moments when he and Justin Haak were not lined up.  These moments created opportunities for Dallas.

Moreover, he did not look comfortable throughout the first half.  Again, this was not common for the defender.  His struggles ultimately hurt the defensive work for NYCFC in the first half.  It will be interesting to see what happens in the League Cup games and whether he will earn any starts in the center-back role.

NYCFC needs more road wins

Undoubtedly, NYCFC would be slightly higher up the table if they were a little better away from home.  This road trip was a good sign, but as fans know, there was a similar moment last year, in which the Pigeons still struggled afterward.

Still, the team needs more road wins and to beat the four they won last season if they want to get into a top-four spot in the Eastern Conference.  At this point, it seems unlikely, but never say never.  NYCFC has proven they can win ugly games and fight for all three points.