Forward, Eugene Starikov, was named Emirates Cosmos Man of the Match following a solid performance in New York's 2-0 loss to North Carolina FC.

Starikov, who earned his first MOTM award this year, had 41 touches on the ball throughout 90 minutes of play. He set up several chances, including one of the Cosmos' biggest of the night – a 6th minute shot by Bledi Bardic that hit the right post. The forward was a key distributor, completing 23 of his 28 passes.

Starikov also played a defensive role, winning six of his 11 duels during the game.

Members of the media cast their votes to determine the Emirates Cosmos Man of the Match at every Cosmos home game.
 

2017 Emirates Cosmos Man of the Match Winners:

Eugene Starikov: September 23 vs. North Carolina FC (L 0-2)

Juan Guerra: September 20 vs. San Francisco Deltas (D 2-2)

Javi Márquez: September 17 vs. Jacksonville Armada FC (D 3-3)

 Andrés Flores: September 3 vs. Jacksonville Armada FC (L 0-2)

 Dejan Jaković: August 19 vs. Indy Eleven (D 3-3)

 Eric Calvillo: July 29 vs. Miami FC (W 3-1)

 Jimmy Maurer: July 4 vs. Indy Eleven (D 1-1)

Emmanuel Ledesma: June 16 vs. Puerto Rico FC (W 4-2)

Kalif Alhassan: June 10 vs. North Carolina FC (D 2-2)

Irvin Herrera: June 7 vs. FC Edmonton (L 2-4)

Emmanuel Ledesma: May 27 vs. San Francisco Deltas (D 0-0)

Emmanuel Ledesma: May 14 vs. Puerto Rico FC (W 4-3)

Javi Márquez: April 22 vs. Jacksonville Armada FC (D 1-1)

 Jimmy Maurer: April 1 vs. Miami FC (L 0-3)