:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59372815/usa_today_10752370.0.jpg)
To get everyone ready for Sunday’s match against NYCFC, we spoke with Hudson River Blue’s Christian Smith to get his take on their terrific start to the season, Jesus Medina, and David Villa.
DSS: NYCFC has yet to lose a match. What have they been able to do so well?
HRB: One thing in particular that has led to our great start is our ability to execute our gameplan. More often than not, we have played from the back effectively and have been able to spread out defenses, allowing us to exploit the space. We also have had stellar performances from new guys like Ismael Tajouri-Shradi and Anton Tinnerholm. Everything has just clicked.
DSS: How has NYC’s newest DP Jesus Medina done to start the season?
HRB: Jesus Medina has been a true gamechanger on the pitch. Though he hasn’t racked up enough goals and assists to light up the stat sheet, he has constantly been a catalyst in the attacking third and has set up an inumerable amount of scoring chances in the process. The best part about it is that he’s only 20, and logic says he’ll only get better in time. Medina is a truly remarkable player and we’re super stoked to have him in New York.
DSS: How many more seasons do you think David Villa has left in him?
HRB: Honestly, I think this might be his last one. While I still believe that he can contribute in the goalscoring department, his fitness issues early on this season have been alarming to say the least. Obviously, I’d be a fool to bet against the one and only El Guaje. But Father Time is undefeated, and it’s obvious that his body has been struggling to catch up with his desire thus far. Plus, it’s worth noting that this is his last contracted year with NYCFC. I can’t see the club investing another year in a striker that will be 37 come the 2019 MLS season.