NYCFC: Three hopes, one fear

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Sep 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York City FC goalkeeper Josh Saunders (12) drinks in his game against the FC Dallas at Yankee Stadium. New York City FC and FC Dallas tied, 2-2. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

The big fear: That Josh Saunders cannot cut down on the mental mistakes.

It has not been an easy season for Josh Saunders. After having a difficult 2015 campaign he has followed it up with another challenging season. The numbers are not that encouraging for the Puerto Rican international. He allowed all 57 of NYCFC’s goals this season, the second-most among all goalkeepers in MLS this season. Furthermore, he had a save percent of 62, which was the lowest for keepers who started more than twenty games.

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Now in all fairness the NYCFC defense has been terrible so not everything can be blamed on Saunders. But his decision-making at times can leave heads scratching. In their 3-1 loss to D.C. United two weeks ago Saunders seemed to have trouble communicating with his center-backs on positioning.

He was also caught between a rock and a hard place when United intercepted a pass back to him late in the first half. His proclivity towards making volleyball saves must also give Vieira negative flashbacks for Fabian Barthez, the French international who was ‘renowned’ for punching the ball high in the air.

This may be Saunders last chance to impress NYCFC management. Having resolved their coaching issues and scoring problems up top it is expected that the club is going to address their defensive issues this offseason. If he can limit his errors and do enough to get this team to a title he may have a chance to save his job. But another poor effort and he may need to pack his bags.

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