In the ten season history of NYCFC, the team had only lost to Montreal twice. Once was in 2020 during the “Covid” season that will forever be tainted by the impact the pandemic had on rosters, venues, and fan support. The second time was in NYCFC’s inaugural season under head coach, Jason Kreis. Back in 2015 NYCFC was a project. It was not well-oiled machine like it’s counterpart in Manchester. But in 2024, already with a championship and an international trophy already in its case, the team should be more than a project. More than a young coach and youthful squad going through a multi-season long process. The team at this point should be “plug and play” with depth both on the roster but also in its reserve squad. And yet, here we are, again, limping into the playoffs grasping at the thin chances of advancing to the meaningful moments in the MLS Cup Playoffs.
This week Mike Anderer, J.R. deBart, and Mike Allen look at the 2024 regular season with a discerning critical eye and also recap the loss in Montreal that brought up the memories of the team under Jason Kreis.