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Match Preview: Cosmos Close Out 2017 Spring Season Away at FC Edmonton

New York will vie for vital three points in Saturday's matchup
Published Jul 13, 2017

The New York Cosmos will travel to FC Edmonton on Saturday, July 15 for their final game of the 2017 NASL Spring Season. The Cosmos aim to secure a top four finish while setting their sights for the best possible record in the overall standings. New York has earned a reputation for playing a good attacking game, and is currently one of three teams in the league without a negative goal difference. The Comos is also second in total shots in the NASL (214), after Spring Season Champions, Miami FC.

The Cosmos (4th, 5W-6D-4L) are coming off a 2-1 loss against Indy Eleven. Despite the result, there were many things that went right for New York. Emmanuel Ledesma continued his scoring spree, getting a fifth goal in eight games with a 27th minute equalizer. Eric Calvillo, who made his third appearance of the season, tallied his first assist of the year. Forward, Eugene Starikov, showed plenty of energy in the attack, using every chance he had throughout the 90 minutes to threaten the opposition's net.

FC Edmonton (7th, 4W-1D-10L) will host the Cosmos after playing to a 2-1 home win against North Carolina FC. The Eddies earned their first victory in a month of league play. The team's form has been far from ideal. Edmonton earned no points in four of their last five games and has lost 10 games this season, the most of any side in the NASL.

The last meeting between the Cosmos and Edmonton ended in a 2-4 defeat for New York on June 7 at MCU Park. Irvin Herrera and Ayoze got on the scoreboard for the Cosmos in first and second half stoppage time. 

Ayoze has done well when playing the Eddies, tallying two assists and a penalty. With three goals so far this season, the Spaniard is currently the team's second top scorer. A familiar face in the starting lineup, the Cosmos left back has also created 19 chances and delivered 56 crosses, the second-most for New York in both categories. 

The Eddies have some tricks up their sleeve, as well. Midfielder, Ben Fisk, is a key component of Edmonton's attack. When it comes to crossing the ball, Fisk is usually in the right place at the right time. The midfielder, who assisted the Eddies' equalizer against North Carolina, leads the team in total crosses (75) and is third in the NASL in this category. The Cosmos should be wary of Fisk's presence on the left or right flank and aim to close him down before he can orchestrate a goal. 

The Cosmos have a 3-5-4 (W-D-L) record against Edmonton, outscoring the Eddies 16-15.

Tune in to the action on Saturday, July 15 at 9:00 pm on ESPN3.