Jason Kreis Praises Defensive Efforts vs. Toronto FC, Giovinco
Sebastian Giovinco was visibly frustrated throughout New York City FC's 2-0 victory over Toronto FC on Saturday at BMO Field.
That means the New York City FC defense was doing its job.
"I thought we handled him really, really well," head coach Jason Kreis said. "Jason Hernandez andShay Facey were two of our best performers on the night. Really the entire back four and everybody’s commitment level was just fantastic, but in particular I thought those two really limited the space of Giovinco and (Michael) Bradley coming through and that’s critically important when you play matches like that."
Toronto FC's creative sparkplug, who came into the match ranked in the top-3 in Major League Soccer in goals (7), assists (6), total shots and shots on goal, was limited to three shots (one on target) as New York City FC won their third straight.
"I thought the defense did great," goalie Josh Saunders said. "Giovinco had some good plays, but at the same time we made some good plays and limited him."
New York City FC constantly double teamed the Atomic Ant whenever he was on the ball and defended him very physically. Giovinco earned five fouls, but conceded three and was shown a yellow card in the 20th minute.
"I’m not a big fan of looking at names and who I’m playing against, but he was pointed out as a threat," Facey said. "We nullified him. We closed down the space and kept tight with the midfield and that seemed to stop him and he wasn’t very successful tonight."
New York City FC return to the field against the Red Bulls on Sunday. Kickoff is 5 p.m. EDT at Yankee Stadium.
