Recap: Atlanta United survives in the Bronx, takes point in 1-1 draw

A Josef Martinez goal and an immense performance from Brad Guzan allowed Atlanta United to escape from New York with a point in a 1-1 draw against NYCFC.

The first half happened. Brad Guzan had the only highlight.

Cool.

Things changed in an instant in the second half.

Four minutes in, Julian “Cross at Every Available Opportunity” Gressel played his best cross of the day HIS ENTIRE LIFE. The ball curled onto the head of Josef Martinez who did what you would expect of the most prolific scorer in MLS history.

The goal is Martinez’s 13^th of the year. He now leads the golden boot race by four goals as of full time.

Meanwhile, NYCFC kept kicking the ball directly at Guzan and/or at the posts.

After missing out on multiple excellent opportunities, NYCFC deservedly broke through in the 77th minute.

It could have been and could have gotten worse. Seriously, I have no idea how they didn’t win.

All things considered it’s an excellent road result for Atlanta who stays atop the Eastern Conference and Supporters’ Shield standings. The Five Stripes were outshot 25-to-6 and put two shots on target compared to 10 for NYCFC. Hey, a point is a point.

The Five Stripes continue the toughest stretch of games this year with a road trip to Columbus on Wednesday night.