August 19, 2023...Preview: "Monumental Effort" Needed As Nine Stripes Head West (from York United FC website)

PREVIEW: "MONUMENTAL EFFORT" NEEDED AS NINE STRIPES HEAD WEST

After back-to-back draws, York United FC looks for a win at Cavalry FC

York United FC will look to end its three-match winless run when Martin Nash’s side travels to his old stomping ground at Spruce Meadows to face second-place Cavalry on Sunday afternoon.

The Nine Stripes have performed impressively in back-to-back away matches against Forge FC and Atlético Ottawa the last two weeks, both ending in thrilling 3-3 draws. Despite their commendable efforts, York narrowly missed victory in both matches after late goals by its opponents.

The Gaffer knows facing his former employer in the Cavs is another litmus test.

''We've put in good performances on the road,” Nash said in his pre-game talk on Friday. “Obviously, we haven't been able to hold the lead late, which has been a bit of a problem for quite a bit of the year to be honest. It's been frustrating but I think the performance has been good and if we can keep another good performance like that on Sunday, we'll be in with a chance.”

While Cavalry secured a 2-1 victory in the most recent encounter between the sides at ATCO Field in June, Nash emphasized his team's readiness and determination. Cavalry has also been inconsistent recently, with one win and two defeats in their last three matches, including a 3-2 loss to Valour FC last week.

''For me, it's always a big game,” Nash said. “I think it's big for Tommy [Wheeldon Jr] too. They’ve been fun battles these last few years so far … They've been great games and I think our guys really enjoy going to Cavalry and playing. It's a great atmosphere and to be on grass and everything else. So, we’ll be up for it and we know it's not going to be easy. We need a monumental effort but I think we have that in us.”

Nash is focused on York United's strengths, and areas of improvement, despite his next opponent’s recent ups and downs. The Nine Stripes’ focus remains squarely on getting back into the playoff picture, as they currently sit in sixth place in the Canadian Premier League standings, two points behind Halifax Wanderers FC in fifth.

''It's all about us,” Nash said. “You just got to expect other teams are going to bring it because it's that business end of the year, but we have to bring it every game. We're on the outside looking in right now. Still got a good chance and it's still in our quarter if we get results so we just got to go on, give everything we have and let the chips fall where they may.”

York United are on a four-match unbeaten streak on the road, with a 5-3-3 away record overall.

OPPONENT’S WATCH

Cavalry have lost just once at home in nine home league matches.

They boast a 5-3-1 home record, which translates into 18 points from a possible 27.

Cavalry will rely on their leading scorer Myer Bevan up front. He has banged in eight goals this season.

Ridwan Ibrahim Asante

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