April 21, 2024...York United FC vs Forge FC Match Preview (from York United FC)

MATCH PREVIEW:
It is the season’s first 905 Derby and a lot is expected from York United against serial
league champions Forge FC this afternoon.
Previous clashes have been pulsating and this first installment at York Lions Stadium
will surely not disappoint.
The Nine Stripes go into the match with a burning desire for redemption following
their opening day defeat against Atletico Ottawa.
Head Coach Martin Nash and his team are undoubtedly fueled to leave it all on the
field in pursuit of a triumphant turnaround.
He said in his pre-game speech: "I think the biggest thing with Forge is
offensive-defensive organization. They're so good with the ball if you're not
organized defensively, they can punish you. They can punish you with their individual
quality and they put in more numbers and attack. So, if you don't have your right
shape and you even get out of shape, they can pin you in for large periods of the
game.
"We got to make sure that we're balanced. We're not leaving them spaces to play in
between the lines and force them into wide areas. If we can stop them switching the
ball, it'll help."
York United are hoping to receive positive news on injured Frank Sturing, Matthew
Baldisimo, Juan Córdova, Oswaldo León and Dennis Salanovic who all missed their
season opener. Nash hopes to recover one or two to help his side against a tough
opponent.
"We're still dealing with some lingering issues with a number of players- It's just that
time of year so we'll see. I think we're not in a bad place but we're still hoping we're
gonna get some of our first-choice guys, " said Nash.
Despite securing a playoff spot, the blot in York United’s copybook for last term was
their unimpressive home record- 14 points (four wins, two draws, and eight defeats)
from 14 home matches. This statistic must improve.
"I think there's a lot of excitement and for that I think a lot of nerves too. Everyone's
been working hard this week and a lot of changes can happen on Match Day to
make it a better experience and there's a lot going on. It's gonna be exciting to see
what it's like tomorrow and or tomorrow on Sunday. Hopefully we get a good crowd
and you know, some good festivities and start the season off right ?."
He added: "I don't know if there's an antidote but we were aware of it. We had a lot
of new players [last season]. I don't expect it to be a problem early in the season. I
think with the new players, you're gonna have the energy and excitement of the early
doors in the season. So hopefully we get off to a good start on Sunday and go from
there."

Ridwan Ibrahim Asante

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