Daniel Salloi scored the tying goal as hosts Toronto FC snagged a 1-1 draw with New York City FC on a warm Saturday night.
The Hungarian nabbed a 70th-minute equalizer off a perfectly-placed cross from speedy Theo Corbeanu, who maneuvered past his man down the right side on several occasions.
Salloi and NYCFC’s Nicolas Fernandez, the leading scorers for their clubs, tallied the only goals of the match as Toronto FC (5-7-10, 25 points) extended their unbeaten run to five.
Fernandez opened the scoring for NYCFC (7-8-7, 28 points) in the 29th minute off a tremendous strike, escaping the pursuit of defender Richie Laryea and whipping a low, long-range attempt into the back of the net as he tumbled to the turf. The goal marked his first since July 31, also against Toronto.
The best opportunity of the first half for the home side came off the boot of Djordje Mihailovic. The American designated player intercepted a poor back pass from NYCFC’s Nico Cavallo but narrowly missed sliding teammate Derrick Etienne Jr. on his 17th-minute cross attempt.
Back from a one-match suspension, Toronto’s Walker Zimmerman had his powerful header from the center of the box denied by goalkeeper Matt Freese (five saves) in the 61st minute.
The visitors struggled to keep up in the later stages of the game, perhaps a symptom of their injury-riddled lineup. The Pigeons controlled 57% of possession on the night but were beaten 6-2 for attempts on target.
Laryea wore the captain’s armband for Toronto in the ongoing absence of Jonathan Osorio (knee injury). Midfielder Alonso Coello showed his worth in his stead, playing a series of line-breaking long balls over the top.
Colorful lights from the surrounding Canadian National Exhibition shone through the rafters of the stadium, contributing to the festival atmosphere in the park.
NYCFC are now winless in their last six matches in all competitions.
–Field Level Media
